Affordable 5-Day Romantic and Historical Rome Itinerary for Students

Day 1: Ancient Rome Exploration

Rome, Italy on August 1, 2025

9:00am

Colosseum and Roman Forum

Start your trip at the iconic Colosseum, exploring ancient gladiatorial history. Then walk through the Roman Forum ruins nearby to see the heart of the ancient city.
EUR16, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pastificio Guerra

Enjoy a super affordable and delicious takeaway pasta from this local spot, perfect for students and centrally located.
EUR5, 1h0m

2:00pm

Palatine Hill

Explore Palatine Hill to see stunning views over the Roman Forum and understand ancient Rome’s imperial power.
Included with Colosseum ticket, 1h30m

7:00pm

Romantic stroll around Circus Maximus

Enjoy a peaceful evening walk around the Circus Maximus, a large ancient chariot racing stadium, perfect for a romantic experience.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Da Enzo al 29

An authentic Roman trattoria known for its tasty yet reasonably priced pasta dishes. Be sure to book in advance as it’s popular.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 2: Vatican and Trastevere

Rome, Italy on August 2, 2025

8:30am

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica

Visit the Vatican Museums with stunning art, Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, and the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica. Get student discount tickets online.
EUR17, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Pizzeria Ai Marmi

Enjoy some of Rome’s best budget-friendly thin-crust pizza in the lively Trastevere neighborhood.
EUR10, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Trastevere neighborhood

Wander the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, a charming historic area with lively squares, street art, and cozy cafes.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Sunset atop Gianicolo Hill

Enjoy panoramic sunset views of Rome from this romantic hilltop, perfect for a couples’ moment.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Osteria der Belli

Casual and affordable spot in Trastevere offering traditional Roman dishes with a cozy vibe.
EUR18, 1h30m
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Day 3: Ancient and Historic Center

Rome, Italy on August 3, 2025

9:00am

Pantheon and Piazza Navona

Visit the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings, then stroll Piazza Navona, famed for Baroque fountains and street artists.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Campo de’ Fiori Market

Explore this vibrant open-air market for fresh produce, snacks, and a lively atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Forno Campo de’ Fiori

Grab a quick and cheap slice of pizza bianca or focaccia from this popular bakery.
EUR5, 30m

2:00pm

Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps

Visit the iconic Trevi Fountain for a coin toss tradition and then climb the Spanish Steps, perfect for people-watching.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Aroma Restaurant

Treat yourselves with a romantic dinner overlooking the Colosseum. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers exquisite dining; expect a higher price but worth the experience.
EUR100+, 2h0m
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Day 4: Parks and Piazzas

Rome, Italy on August 4, 2025

9:30am

Villa Borghese Gardens and Gallery

Spend the morning roaming the beautiful Borghese Gardens. Visit Galleria Borghese if your budget allows; students get discounts with pre-booking.
EUR13 (Gallery), Free (Gardens), 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Casina Valadier

Affordable lunch option in the park area with beautiful views and good food.
EUR15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Piazza del Popolo

Stroll this grand square featuring twin churches and beautiful fountains; relax and enjoy the ambiance.
Free, 1h0m

4:30pm

Relax at Piazza Navona

Return to Piazza Navona to enjoy evening vibes, street performers, and gelato from a local vendor.
Gelato EUR3, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Cecconi’s

Casual and affordable pasta and pizza options to cap your day on a relaxed note.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 5: Final Romantic Day

Rome, Italy on August 5, 2025

9:00am

Janiculum Hill Walk

Begin your day with a quiet walk on Janiculum Hill for expansive views across Rome, great for memorable photos and a romantic atmosphere.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Campo de’ Fiori for brunch

Relish some affordable brunch options at nearby cafes around this lively square.
EUR7, 1h0m

1:00pm

Tiber River walk

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon walking along the Tiber River, finding little bridges and quiet spots for a romantic moment.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Explore Testaccio Market

Check out this authentic food market for inexpensive snacks or souvenirs before departure.
Free entry, food varies EUR3-10, 1h0m

7:00pm

Final Dinner at Emma Pizzeria

Cap off your Rome trip with highly praised but still reasonably priced Roman-style pizza in a cozy setting.
EUR20, 1h30m
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