The eternal city of Rome Italy, where history, art, culture and food converge to create an unforgettable experience. With so much to see and do in this magnificent city, it’s hard to decide how many days in Rome is enough for a complete Roman adventure.
From the iconic Colosseum and Vatican City to the charming piazzas and quaint alleys, each corner of Rome will leave you spellbound with its beauty and charm.
In this article, I’ll help you discover how many days to see Rome is needed to explore all that the city has to offer.
I’ve been to Rome a couple of times, and have a good sense of how many days to spend in Rome and what you can see in 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Rome.
That’s why I’ve created the ultimate itinerary that is completely customizable to fit your travel plans.
The number of days needed in Rome is infinite as there’s always something amazing to discover.
Table of Contents
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How Many Days in Rome Is Enough?
How many days do you need in Rome? That’s a tough question to answer.
Rome is a city that requires time to fully appreciate its beauty, history and culture. While it’s possible to see the main attractions in just a few days, I highly recommend spending 4 to 5 days in Rome to truly immerse yourself in all that this incredible city has to offer.
Rome is also a city that travellers like to return to again and again. So if you’re asking yourself how many days do I need in Rome depends if you plan to return to the city again.
No matter how long in Rome you decide to stay, book everything in advance to make the best use of your time.
There is no lull period in Rome, there are always tourists visiting the city. So, purchasing skip-the-line tickets will be key to saving time, not to mention your enjoyment!
Rome in a Nutshell: Is 2 Days in Rome Enough?
How long do you need in Rome – 2 days is tight. But if that’s all you got, let me help you make the most of it with this two days in Rome itinerary.
And, if you only have 1 day in Rome, whether it’s your first time or a return trip – choose any of the “Day” outlines for the 2, 3, 4 or 5 day itineraries based on your interest.
Day 1: Iconic Landmarks in Rome
Morning
Start your day early with a visit to the Colosseum – one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Take a guided tour or explore on your own; either way, make sure you allow plenty of time to take in the impressive architecture and learn about its fascinating history.
Next up, head over to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. These ancient ruins offer a glimpse into life during ancient times and are definitely worth exploring.
You’re likely going to need to refuel. Here are the best restaurants close to the Colosseum that I recommend (and have tried!):
- Alle Carrette – great pizza (maybe the best in Rome)
- Urbana 47 – great selection of all the Italian classic dishes with a modern vibe
Afternoon
In the afternoon, take a walk through Rome’s Centro Storico to visit some of the most notable sites.
Start at the Spanish Steps, a grand staircase that leads up to the Trinita dei Monti church. Next, head to the iconic Trevi Fountain, where you can toss a coin and make a wish of returning to Rome. I have, and it’s worked, I’m planning my third return trip!
From there, visit the stunning ancient temple that still stands today as a marvel of Roman engineering, the Pantheon.
After admiring the Pantheon’s impressive dome, continue on to Piazza Navona, a grand public square with ornate fountains (with dei quattro fiumi being the most beautiful) and stunning Baroque architecture.
Finally, end your walk at the bustling Campo de’ Fiori, a vibrant square filled with food stalls, cafes, and one of the best markets in Rome. This walk is a great way to experience Rome’s history, culture, and beauty all in one afternoon.
Evening
Spend your evening wandering through the cobbled streets of Trastevere – one of Rome’s trendiest neighbourhoods.
With its charming boutiques, cafes, restaurants and bars this is the perfect area of Rome to enjoy an aperitif, dinner and romantic stroll.
If you are wondering where to eat in Trastevere, check out my full list of the best Travestevere restaurants.
Day 2: One Day in Vatican City
If you have two days to spend in Rome, then one of them should undoubtedly be devoted to exploring the Vatican, the smallest state in the world, and one of the most significant cultural and religious centers of the Western world.
This city state may be small in size, but it’s big in the number of things to see and do. Don’t underestimate how much time to spend here, as it’s a bit overwhelming how much there is to see.
For your one day in Vatican City you will need a skip-the-line ticket to the Vatican to see the following:
- St Peter’s Square
- The Vatican Museums (26 in total!)
- Sistine Chapel
- St Peter’s Basilica Dome
- Vatican Gardens
Enjoy a late lunch and stroll the streets in the neighbourhood of Borgo. Followed by visiting Castel Sant’ Angelo and Bridge of Angels.
End your Rome in 2 days with dinner, and a stroll along the Tiber River. To help plan your visit here, including restaurant recommendations, be sure to check out my full guide to One Day in Vatican City.
The Best of Rome: 3 Days in Rome
If you’re trying to decide how many days should you spend in Rome – 3 is a safe bet, even for first-timers.
You can rest assured that you’ll be able to see most of the top sites in Rome in 3 days at a bit more leisurely pace than in 2 days.
Day 1: Ancient Rome + Monti Neighbourhood
Start with some of the most iconic sights in the city – the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
Take your time visiting the amphitheatre that’s over 2,000 years old and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Rome.
After you’ve explored the Colosseum, take a stroll through the Roman Forum. The Forum was once the heart of ancient Rome and is a sprawling complex of ruins that includes temples, government buildings, and public spaces.
From the Roman Forum, head up to Palatine Hill. This is the place where Rome was founded, and it’s home to some of the oldest ruins in the city. The views from Palatine Hill are also stunning, and you can see much of the city from here.
Head to Basilica di Santa Maria in Aracoeli. This beautiful 13th-century church is located on Capitoline Hill and is known for its stunning frescoes, intricate marble floors, and ornate altar. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of a bustling city.
Next, make your way to the Altar of the Fatherland. This is a monument that was built to honour Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a united Italy. The monument is an imposing structure that dominates the skyline of Rome. And the panoramic views of the city are incredible!
After a day of exploring the ancient sights of Rome, it’s time to discover one of the city’s hippest neighbourhoods – Monti.
This area is known for its trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques. You can grab a coffee at one of the many cafes, browse the shops and enjoy a leisurely aperitif and dinner at a local trattoria.
Some restaurants that I’ve tried and recommend include – Rocco Ristorante or Ai Tre Scalini and Urbana 47.
Day 2: Iconic Landmarks + Trastevere Neighbourhood
Start at Piazza di Spagna, one of Rome’s most iconic squares at the bottom of the Spanish Steps.
Climb the Spanish Steps and enjoy the stunning view from the top before visiting Trinita dei Monti church.
Next, head to the Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder, you’ll return to Rome one day.
Our next destination is the Pantheon one of Rome’s best-preserved ancient buildings and is famous for its stunning dome.
Located just across from the Pantheon is Piazza della Rotonda, a charming square lined with cafes and restaurants.
From there, continue on to Piazza Navona, another beautiful square in the heart of Rome.
This square is home to three stunning fountains, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers. Take a break to enjoy a gelato and soak in the atmosphere of this historic square.
Next, head to Campo de’ Fiori, and visit my favourite bustling market square filled with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
From there, cross the Tiber River into the charming Trastevere neighbourhood.
Spend the rest of your day and evening getting lost in the maze of narrow cobblestone streets full of colourful buildings.
Be sure to visit the Basilica of Our Lady in Trastevere which sits on the beautiful Piazza di Santa Maria.
Your day ends here where you can enjoy a traditional Roman dinner at one of the best Trastevere restaurants. Sample classic dishes like cacio e pepe or amatriciana, and wash it down with a glass of local wine.
Day 3: Vatican City
Spend the last day of your 3 days in Rome in Vatican City.
The same itinerary as Day 2 of 2 days in Rome is recommended (set forth above). Check out the full description of what to see, do and where to eat in my one day in Vatican City guide. Don’t forget to book your skip-the-line entry tickets to the sites of the Vatican.
Experience the Magic of Rome: 4 Days in Rome
Follow the 3-day itinerary from above, and then add this additional day 4.
Day 4: Rome’s Hidden Treasures
On the final day of this 4-day Rome itinerary, it’s time to explore some of the city’s lesser-known treasures.
Start your day by visiting Villa Borghese, one of Rome’s most famous parks and gardens. The park is home to Borghese Gallery, a beautiful art collection and museum. Another highlight is the picturesque lake where you can rent a paddle boat.
Take a leisurely stroll through the park ending at Terrazza del Pincio which offers a stunning viewpoint of Rome.
Hidden gem alert: if you love seeking out places that are off-the-beaten path and incredible architecture you may want to add a visit to Rome’s best-kept secret neighbourhood called Quartiere Coppede, it was one of my favourite things to do in Rome.
From Terrazza del Pincio, walk down the hill to Piazza del Popolo, a large public square that’s home to the twin churches of Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto. Soak up the lively atmosphere with gelato.
From there, follow the Tiber River to the Jewish Quarter, one of Rome’s oldest and most historic neighbourhoods.
The area is known for its narrow streets and traditional Jewish restaurants. This is a great spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch. Try any of these and you won’t be disappointed: Nonna Betta, or Ba’ Ghetto, or Su Ghetto.
After exploring the Jewish Quarter, make your way to Aventine Hill, one of Rome’s seven hills. Along the way be sure to admire some of the notable bridges along the Tiber River – Ponte Garibaldi, Ponte Fabricio, Ponte Cestio.
At Aventine Hill, you’ll find the stunning Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden), a peaceful oasis that offers panoramic views of the city. This is a popular sunset-watching spot if you time it right.
You can also visit the nearby Basilica di Santa Sabina, one of Rome’s oldest and most beautiful churches.
One last spot to check out is Buco della serratura dell’Ordine di Malta, otherwise known as the Aventine keyhole which has a direct view of St Paul’s Basilica in Vatican City.
Finally, end your day with a traditional Roman dinner at one of the city’s many trattorias or osterias. These family-run restaurants serve classic dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara, saltimbocca alla romana, and tiramisu.
Here are some recommended ones to try that are in this area: Agustarello a Testaccio, or Piatto Romano, or Taverna Volpetti.
Rome and Beyond: 5 Days in Rome
Follow the 4-day itinerary from above, and then add this additional day 5 and take a break from Rome and explore some of the surrounding areas.
There are several fantastic day trip options available, each with its own unique attractions and experiences. Here are a few suggestions for you to choose from.
1. Day Trip from Rome to Pompeii
Located just a few hours south of Rome, the ancient city of Pompeii is a fascinating glimpse into the past. It’s one of Italy’s most famous archaeological sites and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The city was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and remained buried under ash and pumice for centuries. Today, you can explore the remarkably preserved ruins, including houses, temples, and theatres through this guided tour.
2. Amalfi Coast
If you’re looking for stunning scenery and charming coastal towns, the Amalfi Coast is a perfect choice. The coastline stretches along the Tyrrhenian Sea, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and turquoise waters.
You can visit towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each with its own unique charm and attractions.
One of the most popular day trips from Rome includes Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano in one day, check it out here.
3. Naples
Just an hour south of Rome by train, Naples is a bustling city with a rich history and culture.
It’s known for its delicious pizza, lively street markets, and impressive museums, including the National Archaeological Museum, which houses many artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
4. Orvieto
For a taste of medieval Italy, head to the hilltop town of Orvieto, located about an hour north of Rome as I did.
The town is famous for its impressive Gothic cathedral, stunning views, and charming streets lined with artisanal shops and cafes.
5. Tuscany
Even visiting Tuscany for the day is possible from Rome. From hilltop villages and wine tours to Tuscan cities like Florence and Siena, it’s all possible with either a group or private tour.
For a bit of inspiration, check out these 10 best tours to Tuscany from Rome.
Where to Stay in Rome
With so much to see and do, choosing the right accommodation can make a big difference in the quality of your Rome trip. Depending on how long to stay in Rome I recommend a hotel for short stays of two nights, but longer stays to rent an apartment.
Fortunately, Rome offers a wide range of options for every budget and preference, from luxurious five-star hotels to cozy boutique hotels and budget-friendly hostels.
Whether you want to stay in the heart of the historic center or in a trendy neighbourhood, here are a few top-rated hotels in each neighbourhood.
Affordable luxury:
- The Fifteen Keys – a super stylish boutique hotel in the Monti neighbourhood
- The Hoxton – UK’s stylish chain hotel is now in Rome in the historic city centre
- Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere – a stylish boutique hotel that straddles Trastevere and historic Centro Rome
Luxury:
- Sentho Roma – is in a restored palazzo in the heart of Rome’s Monti neighbourhood with only 17 rooms and personalized service
- Hotel Vilòn (Small Luxury Hotels of the World brand) – a mansion turned boutique hotel with 18 rooms with a contemporary design with a destination cocktail bar, in a secret spot right next to Palazzo Borghese (close to Trevi Fountain and Villa Borghese).
- Aleph Rome Hotel – palatial luxury all the way with its creamy white façade, ornate balconies, and amenities you would expect to find in this 5-star hotel Hilton chain near the Trevi fountain
FAQ: How Many Days to Visit Rome
What is the best month to visit Rome?
The best month to visit Rome is generally April, May, September, and October when the weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower.
Is 5 days enough for Rome?
Yes, 5 days is a good amount of time to spend in Rome. It will allow you to see the major attractions, explore some hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine. You can also take day trips to nearby destinations like Pompeii, Naples or Orvieto.
Is there enough to do in Rome for a week?
Yes, there is more than enough to do in Rome for a week. You can see all the major attractions, explore the lesser-known neighbourhoods, take day trips, and indulge in the local food and wine scene. So why rush through it? Take your time and enjoy la dolce vita – you won’t regret it!
Is Rome a walkable city?
Yes, Rome is a very walkable city where many of the major attractions are in proximity. Walking is the best way to see the city’s beautiful architecture, charming neighbourhoods, and ancient ruins. Keep in mind that some areas of the city, such as the Vatican and the Appian Way, are farther apart and may require public transportation.
What is included in a first time in Rome itinerary?
A first time in Rome itinerary likely includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona and visiting the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
What are some travel tips for visiting Rome?
Here are some travel tips for visiting Rome:
1. Dress comfortably and modestly and wear comfortable shoes
2. Use public transport or walk to get around
3. Book skip-the-line tickets in advance
4. Try local cuisine and visit local markets and shops
5. Beware of pickpockets and tourist scams
6. Respect cultural and historical sites
7. Learn some basic Italian phrases, it goes a long way
8. Take a break and enjoy an espresso or gelato as often as you can
As a Holidaymaker
When it comes to planning a trip to Rome, the question of how many days should I spend in Rome can be a challenging one to answer.
My ultimate 2-day, 3-day, 4-day, and 5-day itineraries provide a starting point for your trip planning, but ultimately the answer of how long to spend in Rome depends on your personal interests and travel style.
Whether you have a few days or a full week to spend in Rome, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, culture, and cuisine. So go ahead and plan your dream trip to Rome, and get ready to fall in love with this magical city!
To help planning for your holiday time in Rome Italy check out my Italy Travel page where with just one click on Italy it will take you directly to a list of Destination Guides for Rome and many other incredible Italian destinations.
