Rome is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, and with a well-planned itinerary, you can make the most of every moment of your visit to the Eternal City. If you only have 4 days to explore, this complete guide will help you discover the main tourist attractions, as well as immerse yourself in local cuisine and Roman lifestyle.
Why is Rome called the "Eternal City"?
Rome, the capital of Italy, carries an impressive historical legacy. Monuments like the Colosseum and the Pantheon transport you directly to the height of the Roman Empire. Its nickname, the "Eternal City," reflects its enduring influence on Western civilization. Founded over 2,500 years ago, Rome remains a cultural and spiritual hub, full of stories and art that shaped the world.
But Rome is not just an open-air museum. It's also a vibrant city, with a thriving cultural scene, irresistible cuisine, and a unique atmosphere that attracts tourists from all over the world.
How Many Days Should You Stay in Rome?
If you're planning your visit to Rome and wondering how many days are enough, 4 days is an ideal duration to explore the main tourist attractions, relax, and soak up the energy of the city. For those with a week, it's possible to discover lesser-known sights and enjoy the local food at a more leisurely pace.
4-Day Rome Itinerary: Best Attractions And Tours
Day 1: Colosseum and Ancient Rome: Exploring History
Morning: Start your day exploring the Colosseum, the largest amphitheater in Ancient Rome and an iconic symbol of the Roman Empire. Be sure to take a guided tour to better understand its history.
Afternoon: Visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where Rome was founded, and immerse yourself in the city's glorious past. For a richer experience, consider a guided tour of the Colosseum and explore the Arena of the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
We've done the full guided tour of the main sights in Rome twice, starting with the Colosseum, with a view of the Arena, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. I'll leave the link for both tours we did here: Rome: Guided tour of the Colosseum Arena, Forum, and Palatine Option.
End of the day: Visit the Trevi Fountain and throw a coin in to ensure your return to Rome. Take a stroll around the Spanish Steps and relax in this iconic spot in the city.
Tip: The fountain is always crowded, but an early morning visit is a good way to avoid the crowds. Even with many people, it's still possible to appreciate this beautiful work and enjoy the moment.
Day 2: Vatican – What to See and Essential Tips
Morning: Explore the Vatican, starting with St. Peter's Basilica. Don't miss the opportunity to climb to the dome for a panoramic view of Rome. St. Peter's Square is also a great viewpoint.
Afternoon: Explore the Vatican Museums and marvel at works by Michelangelo, including the famous Sistine Chapel. Visit the Castel Sant'Angelo, an important historical site with stunning views of the city.
Tip: Taking a guided tour of the Vatican can be worth it if you want to delve deeper into the history and curiosities that only a guide can share with you.
End of the day: Spend the late afternoon walking along the Ponte Sant'Angelo and enjoy the romantic view of the Tiber River.
Tip: The Vatican has a lot to see and explore, so to make the most of it, it's recommended to set aside both the morning and afternoon to explore at a leisurely pace. Check the Vatican's official website for updated ticket information.
Day 3: Trastevere, Piazza Navona, and Pantheon
Morning: Explore Trastevere, the most charming neighborhood in Rome, known for its cobblestone streets and traditional trattorias. During the day, the neighborhood has a unique charm, with its squares and historic churches.
Night: Discover Trastevere At night - Trastevere transforms into one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Rome, with many bars, restaurants, and live music. It's the perfect place for a relaxed dinner in a traditional trattoria or to enjoy the nightlife, with its lively and welcoming atmosphere. If you like a more bohemian vibe, this neighborhood is ideal for evening walks.
Important Tip: Of course, like any busy place, it's important to be mindful of the crowds and stay alert to your belongings like bags, wallets, and phones to avoid any surprises.
Afternoon in Rome: Visit Piazza Navona and the Pantheon
Piazza Navona is one of the most famous squares in Rome and a must-see for tourists. Known for its impressive Baroque fountains, the square is home to the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, sculpted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. In addition to being a great place to admire art and architecture, Piazza Navona has a vibrant atmosphere, with charming cafés around and street artists adding a unique touch to the environment, making it the perfect place for a relaxing stroll in Rome.
After exploring Piazza Navona, head to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved buildings of Ancient Rome and an impressive example of Roman engineering. Originally built as a temple dedicated to all the Roman gods, the Pantheon impresses with its colossal dome and the oculus in the center, allowing natural light to enter, creating a unique visual effect. Today, the Pantheon is a Catholic church dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs and houses the tombs of historical figures like the painter Raphael and several Italian kings. The Pantheon is undoubtedly one of the most visited tourist attractions in Rome.
End of the day: Explore the Campo de' Fiori Market, a vibrant spot ideal for sampling typical dishes and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city.
Day 4: Art, Gardens, and Shopping
Morning: Visit the Borghese Gallery, one of the most important museums in Rome, housing works by artists like Caravaggio and Bernini.
Afternoon: Relax in the Borghese Gardens, an oasis of tranquility in the center of Rome, perfect for walking or cycling.
End of the day: Shopping Tips in Rome – For shopping, visit Via del Corso, one of Rome's main shopping streets, where you can find everything from luxury brands to souvenir shops and local products. Also, be sure to stop for a coffee in one of Rome's beautiful squares.
Day Trips From Rome
Tivoli: Visit the impressive Villa d'Este and Villa Adriana, famous for their lush gardens, monumental fountains, and Roman ruins.
Ostia Antica: Discover the ancient port of Rome, one of Italy's best-preserved archaeological sites, where you can explore amphitheaters, baths, and streets from Ancient Rome.
Pompeii: Walk through the ruins of the city buried by Mount Vesuvius and learn fascinating details about everyday life in Ancient Rome.
From Rome to Florence: Must-See Stops Along the Way
If your itinerary takes you from Rome to Florence (Firenze), take advantage of the opportunity to visit enchanting places that make the trip even more special:
Civita di Bagnoregio: The Dying City
Located in the Lazio region, Civita di Bagnoregio is one of Italy's most fascinating medieval villages. Known as "La città che muore" ("The Dying City"), its name comes from the ongoing erosion of the volcanic soil it was built upon, which has threatened its structure for centuries.
The village is dramatically perched atop a volcanic tuff plateau and can only be reached by a pedestrian bridge, adding to its charm and mystery. Founded over 2,500 years ago by the Etruscans, Civita retains its cobblestone streets, historic houses, ancient churches, and charming squares, offering visitors a true journey through time.
In addition to the fairytale setting, the village offers typical restaurants serving authentic homemade food based on the km zero concept (fresh, local ingredients). The cuisine includes handmade pasta, regional cheeses, and wines produced in the area.
Despite the threat of erosion, conservation projects and growing tourism interest have helped keep this medieval gem alive. Civita di Bagnoregio is a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience authentic medieval Italy and enjoy one of the most breathtaking views of the Tiber Valley.
Abbazia di San Galgano
Located about 30 km from Siena, the Abbazia di San Galgano is a medieval Cistercian abbey in ruins that impresses with its Gothic architecture without a roof and its bucolic surroundings. The site also hosts the mystical Sword in the Stone, an Italian legend linked to the story of King Arthur.
Siena
Before arriving in Florence, make a stop in Siena, one of Italy's best-preserved medieval cities. Stroll through the iconic Piazza del Campo, visit the Siena Cathedral, and try regional dishes like the famous pici pasta and traditional sweets like panforte.
These stops not only enrich your trip but also make the journey between Rome and Florence an unforgettable experience! 🚗✨
If you're also planning to visit Florence or other cities, we have many amazing tips for you! Check out our blog, where we share valuable information about Florence and the surrounding areas to make your trip even more special.
Best Time to Visit Rome and Climate Tips
The best time to visit Rome is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and the city has fewer tourists. Summer (June-August) can be hot and crowded, but it's ideal for outdoor events. Winter (November-March) offers a quieter experience, perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds.
How to Get to Rome
By Plane: Arrive at Fiumicino Airport (FCO), Rome's main airport, or Ciampino Airport (CIA), which is used by low-cost airlines.
By Train: The Termini station connects Rome with several European cities.
By Car: Driving in Rome can be complicated due to traffic. Use public transport or taxis.
Roman Cuisine: What to Eat in Rome
During your stay in Rome, try typical Roman dishes like:
Carbonara: Spaghetti with eggs, guanciale, and Pecorino cheese.
Amatriciana: Bucatini with tomato sauce, guanciale, and Pecorino.
Saltimbocca alla Romana: Veal with prosciutto and sage.
Carciofi alla Romana: Artichokes cooked in olive oil.
Supplì: Rice balls filled with mozzarella.
Roman Pizza: Thin and crispy crust.
Gelato: A must-try!
Tiramisu: Don't miss the best Tiramisu in Rome – Two Size, located at Via del Governo Vecchio, 88.
Where to Eat in Rome: Restaurant Tips and Typical Dishes 🍽️
Rome is a gastronomic paradise, full of traditional trattorias, local markets, and amazing pizzerias. Here are some regions and must-try recommendations we've made for you to enjoy authentic Roman cuisine:
Trastevere: The Heart of Tradition
A bohemian and charming neighborhood, perfect for those seeking traditional trattorias and a vibrant atmosphere. Here you'll find some of the best pasta in Rome and the famous supplì, a rice ball filled with melted cheese.
📍 Must-Try Tip: Try Supplì Roma, a true institution in the heart of the neighborhood. @suppliroma.official
Testaccio: The Cradle of Roman Cuisine
Testaccio is a neighborhood famous for its authentic gastronomy and is the perfect place for those looking to try traditional dishes such as cacio e pepe, carbonara, and amatriciana. At the Mercato di Testaccio, you can also find the best sandwich in Rome, at Box 15. This small stand is known for its sandwiches made with fresh, local ingredients.
📍Mercato di Testaccio - Box 15 - Address: Via Aldo Manuzio, 66C"
Historic Center & Campo de' Fiori
Perfect for those who want to eat well while enjoying some of Rome's most iconic views.
The best Pizza al Taglio in the historic center is Forno Roscioli. Considered one of the best pizzerias in Rome, it offers delicious slices of pizza al taglio (sold by weight), with classic and innovative options.
📍Forno Rasciollo - Address: Via dei Chiavari, 34
Cantina e Cucina – Hosteria Pizzeria: Authenticity and Flavor in the Heart of Rome 🇮🇹🍕🍷
With a cozy and rustic atmosphere, Cantina e Cucina offers the best of traditional Roman cuisine and delicious artisanal pizzas. The restaurant is usually busy, so it's worth making a reservation or arriving early to enjoy an aperitif while you wait. 🍷✨
📍Cantina e Cucina - Address: Via del Governo Vecchio, 87
Monti
The Monti neighborhood is a great option for those looking for an authentic and laid-back atmosphere. Trendy and quite central, it is located between Termini station and the Colosseum. We've stayed in this area, and there are many wonderful restaurants. One of our recommendations is the trattoria La Taverna Madonna dei Monti 16. A classic restaurant with delicious dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
📍La Taverna Madonna dei Monti 16 - Address: Via Della Madonna dei Monti, 16
More Experiences in Rome
Cooking classes: Learn to make traditional Roman dishes.
Food tours: Discover the best restaurants and markets in Rome with expert guides.
Night tours: Some attractions, like the Colosseum, offer night tours for a unique experience.
Planning Your Trip to Rome?
Did this 4-day Rome itinerary help you plan your trip to the Eternal City? Make the most of every moment and explore the main tourist spots in Rome, along with its rich culture and cuisine. Be sure to subscribe to our blog for more tips and updates about Rome!
Leave a comment below sharing your experience or asking what else you would like to know about the city!
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I'm Lili, I live in Lucca, Tuscany, and my friend Wendy lives in Belgium. Our blog is written with care and based on our travel experiences, which we share here with you. The best way to support us in continuing to provide free, ad-free travel tips is by using the links in this article to make your bookings. This way, you help us keep creating content for you! 🌍✈️ |
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