Day 1: Ancient Rome & Trastevere
Colosseum & Roman Forum
Start with Rome's most iconic monument. Pre-booked tickets essential. Explore where gladiators fought and emperors ruled.
Lunch at Hostaria Romana
Traditional Roman cuisine: carbonara, cacio e pepe, saltimbocca. Family-run trattoria loved by locals.
Pantheon & Piazza Navona
Marvel at ancient engineering, toss coins in fountains, enjoy gelato at Giolitti.
Trastevere Neighborhood Walk
Cross the Tiber to Rome's most charming neighborhood. Ivy-covered buildings, artisan workshops, hidden churches.
Dinner & Aperitivo
Aperitivo at Freni e Frizioni, dinner at Da Enzo al 29. Try Roman artichokes and house wine.
Day 2: Vatican & Renaissance Rome
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Early entry crucial. 4 hours to explore Renaissance masterpieces, culminating in Michelangelo's ceiling.
St. Peter's Basilica & Dome Climb
World's largest church. Climb 551 steps for panoramic views. See Michelangelo's Pietà .
Lunch at Pizzarium
Rome's best pizza al taglio. Creative toppings, crispy crust, affordable and delicious.
Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps
Baroque magnificence. Toss coin for return to Rome. Luxury shopping along Via Condotti.
Dinner near Pantheon
Armando al Pantheon for elegant Roman cuisine with illuminated monument views.
Day 3: Hidden Gems & Local Life
Villa Borghese & Gallery
Rome's Central Park. Rent bikes, visit Galleria Borghese (book ahead) for Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings.
Testaccio Market & Food Tour
Where Romans shop. Sample cheeses, cured meats, fresh pasta. Visit Monte Testaccio pottery hill.
Non-Catholic Cemetery & Aventine Keyhole
Peaceful oasis with Keats' tomb. Secret keyhole perfectly frames St. Peter's dome through gardens.
Rooftop Aperitivo
Sunset drinks at Terrazza Borromini. Panoramic city views with prosecco and Italian appetizers.
Farewell Dinner in Campo de' Fiori
Final Roman feast at Forno Campo de' Fiori. Fresh pasta, Roman wine, tiramisu. Lively square atmosphere.