Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City! From ancient ruins like the Colosseum to the artistic treasures of the Vatican, Rome is a city of history, culture, and incredible cuisine. This guide will help you explore its must-see sights and hidden gems for an unforgettable experience.
What to See in Rome in 3 Days
Day 1: Ancient Rome and the Colosseum
Start your Roman journey with a free walking tour to get an insider’s perspective on the city’s history, culture, and hidden corners. Walking through its ancient streets with a local expert will help you uncover fascinating stories and get oriented for the days ahead.
A visit to the Colosseum is an unmissable experience. Step into this grand amphitheater where gladiators once battled and imagine the roaring crowds that once filled the stands. Just a short walk away, the Roman Forum transports you to the heart of ancient Rome, where political and social life flourished. The ruins of temples, basilicas, and grand arches create an evocative atmosphere that echoes the city’s glorious past.
Day 2: Vatican City and Baroque Wonders
No trip to Rome is complete without exploring Vatican City. Marvel at the breathtaking St. Peter’s Basilica, climb to its dome for a panoramic city view, and immerse yourself in art at the Vatican Museums, home to Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel.
Take a leisurely stroll to the Pantheon, a marvel of ancient engineering, and feel the grandeur of its massive dome. Nearby, the Trevi Fountain awaits for you to toss a coin and make a wish—one of the city’s most cherished traditions. The elegant Piazza Navona is perfect for a break, where you can admire Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers and soak in the lively Roman atmosphere.
Day 3: Castles, Steps, and Art
Head to Castel Sant’Angelo, a historic fortress that offers spectacular views of the Tiber River and Vatican City. Then, ascend the iconic Spanish Steps, a perfect spot for people-watching and taking in the energy of the city.
For a touch of Renaissance and Baroque splendor, visit the Borghese Gallery nestled in the vast Villa Borghese Gardens. Here, you can admire masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini in a setting as exquisite as the art itself.
Rome’s essence lies in its layers of history, art, and vibrant life. Whether wandering through ancient ruins, admiring Renaissance masterpieces, or indulging in authentic Roman cuisine, the Eternal City offers an unforgettable experience at every turn.
Free Walking Tour with Guruwalk
Start your Roman adventure with a free walking tour by Guruwalk, the top-rated company for immersive city tours. Led by expert local guides, this tour takes you through the heart of Rome, uncovering its rich history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems—all while enjoying a fun and engaging experience. Whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re a seasoned traveler, this free tour is the perfect way to discover Rome’s fascinating past and vibrant present.
Colosseum
Few places in the world evoke the grandeur and spectacle of ancient history like the Colosseum. Towering over the heart of the city, this awe-inspiring amphitheater stands as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of the Roman Empire. Constructed in the 1st century AD under Emperor Vespasian and completed by his successor Titus, it remains one of the most visited landmarks on the planet.
Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheater, the Colosseum was designed to host gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and public spectacles. With a capacity of around 50,000 spectators, it was the largest amphitheater ever built at the time. Its oval shape and tiered seating allowed for an unparalleled view of the action, making it a center of entertainment for Roman citizens for over four centuries.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the structure is its engineering and architectural brilliance. Built using a combination of travertine limestone, tuff, and concrete, the Colosseum’s design enabled rapid crowd dispersal through its 80 entrances. The underground section, known as the hypogeum, housed intricate tunnels and chambers where gladiators and animals were prepared before making their dramatic entrances onto the arena floor.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Colosseum is more than a symbol of Rome—it is a symbol of human ambition, resilience, and the cultural legacy of an empire that shaped the world.
Vatican City
As the world’s smallest independent state, Vatican City is an unparalleled destination for history, art, and spirituality. Enclosed within the city’s walls, it serves as the epicenter of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope. Despite its size, Vatican City houses some of the most revered treasures in human civilization.
At the heart of this sovereign enclave lies St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most magnificent religious structures ever built. The Vatican Museums hold a vast collection of artistic and historical wonders, leading visitors through a labyrinth of galleries culminating in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. Designed by Michelangelo, its ceiling frescoes are among the most celebrated masterpieces of the Renaissance.
Another must-visit landmark is St. Peter’s Square, an architectural marvel designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. This vast open space, framed by grand colonnades, hosts thousands of pilgrims and tourists daily, all eager to witness papal ceremonies and audiences.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Dominating the skyline of Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most iconic religious structures in the world. Built over what is believed to be the tomb of St. Peter, one of Christ’s apostles and the first pope, this architectural masterpiece is a place of immense spiritual significance and artistic grandeur.
The basilica’s immense dome, designed by Michelangelo and later completed by Giacomo della Porta, is one of the most recognizable features of the Roman skyline. Visitors entering the basilica are immediately struck by the vast interior, adorned with exquisite sculptures, mosaics, and gilded details. Among its most revered treasures is Michelangelo’s Pietà, a stunning marble sculpture depicting the Virgin Mary cradling the body of Christ.
The main altar, situated beneath the grandiose Baldachin crafted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, marks the traditional burial site of St. Peter. Pilgrims and art enthusiasts alike marvel at the intricate craftsmanship, the elaborate design, and the profound sense of history that permeates every corner of the basilica.
Sistine Chapel
One of the most celebrated treasures of Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel is a masterpiece of Renaissance art and an essential visit for anyone exploring the Vatican Museums. Commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV in the late 15th century, the chapel is renowned for its breathtaking frescoes that adorn the ceiling and the altar wall.
The most famous of these is Michelangelo’s ceiling fresco, completed between 1508 and 1512. Spanning over 5,000 square feet, the ceiling depicts scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic Creation of Adam, where God and Adam’s outstretched fingers nearly touch in a moment of divine connection. This image has become one of the most recognized artistic representations in history.
Equally remarkable is The Last Judgment, another of Michelangelo’s masterpieces, painted nearly three decades later on the chapel’s altar wall. This immense and dynamic composition portrays the Second Coming of Christ and the final judgment of souls, filled with dramatic figures and intense emotion.
Beyond its artistic significance, the Sistine Chapel holds a vital role in the Catholic Church as the site of the Papal Conclave, where cardinals gather to elect a new pope. The combination of historical importance, religious significance, and artistic genius makes the Sistine Chapel an unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world.
Pantheon
A timeless marvel of ancient engineering, the Pantheon is one of the best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome and an enduring symbol of architectural excellence. Originally built as a temple to all gods during the reign of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, it has since served as a church and remains an iconic landmark of the city.
The most striking feature of the Pantheon is its massive dome, which, at 142 feet in diameter, was the largest in the world for centuries. The oculus, a 30-foot-wide opening at the dome’s center, allows natural light to flood the interior while also serving as a symbolic connection between the heavens and the earth. This architectural masterpiece, made of unreinforced concrete, continues to inspire modern architects and engineers.
Inside, the Pantheon’s grand interior showcases towering Corinthian columns, intricate marble flooring, and a sense of vast open space that enhances its solemn atmosphere. The building also serves as the final resting place of several historical figures, including Raphael, the famed Renaissance artist, and former Italian kings.
Trevi Fountain
One of the most famous fountains in the world, the Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece of Baroque art and an unmissable stop for visitors. Designed by Nicolo Salvi and completed in 1762, it stands as a grand celebration of water and mythology, symbolizing abundance and the sea’s power.
The fountain’s central figure is Oceanus, the god of all waters, who stands triumphantly on a shell-shaped chariot pulled by seahorses. These creatures, guided by Tritons, represent the changing moods of the sea—one calm and the other restless. The surrounding sculptures depict Agrippa, who oversaw the construction of the original aqueduct supplying water to ancient Rome, and Trivia, the virgin who led the way to the water source.
According to tradition, tossing a coin over your shoulder into the fountain ensures a return to the city. This ritual has made the Trevi Fountain one of the most photographed spots in Rome, drawing millions of visitors annually who participate in the age-old custom.
Roman Forum
Once the center of political, religious, and social life in ancient Rome, the Roman Forum is an extraordinary archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. Located between the Palatine Hill and the Capitoline Hill, this sprawling complex of ruins was the heart of Roman civilization for centuries.
The Forum housed significant structures, including the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus, the Curia Julia (where the Roman Senate met), and the Temple of Vesta, where the Vestal Virgins maintained the sacred flame. Each ruin tells a story of Rome’s evolution from a Republic to an Empire, reflecting its political and religious transformation.
Walking along the ancient cobblestone paths, visitors can imagine the bustling marketplace, the speeches delivered by legendary figures like Julius Caesar, and the processions of triumphal emperors. The Via Sacra, the Forum’s main road, connected the area to the Colosseum and served as the route for victorious military parades.
Piazza Navona
One of the most famous and lively squares in Rome, Piazza Navona is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and a vibrant hub of activity. Built on the site of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, the piazza retains the elongated shape of the former athletic arena, which once hosted competitive games in the 1st century AD.
At the center of the square stands the stunning Fountain of the Four Rivers, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651. This intricate masterpiece represents four major rivers from different continents—the Nile, the Danube, the Ganges, and the Rio de la Plata—symbolizing the global reach of the Catholic Church. The fountain is topped by an ancient obelisk, adding to its grandeur.
Piazza Navona is also home to two other impressive fountains: the Fountain of Neptune at the northern end and the Moor Fountain at the southern end, both adding to the square’s artistic appeal. The imposing Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, designed by Francesco Borromini, stands as another architectural highlight, its elegant façade complementing the surrounding buildings.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, Castel Sant’Angelo has served multiple roles throughout its history, from a fortress to a papal residence and even a prison. Today, it stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into the city’s past.
The castle’s cylindrical structure is a striking architectural feature, seamlessly blending Roman and medieval elements. Its robust walls and strategic location along the Tiber River made it a key defensive structure during the Middle Ages. A secret passage, the Passetto di Borgo, connects Castel Sant’Angelo to Vatican City, allowing popes to escape during times of danger.
Inside, visitors can explore lavishly decorated rooms, ancient armories, and the stunning terrace that offers panoramic views of Rome, including St. Peter’s Basilica. The statue of the Archangel Michael atop the fortress symbolizes the legendary moment when the angel appeared to Pope Gregory I, marking the end of a devastating plague.
Spanish Steps
One of the most famous staircases in the world, the Spanish Steps are a grand architectural masterpiece that connects Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church above. Completed in 1725, these 135 steps were designed by Francesco de Sanctis and have since become a beloved gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
The Spanish Steps were originally built to link the Bourbon Spanish Embassy with the church, reflecting the deep historical ties between Spain and the Vatican. Their unique irregular design, adorned with terraces and landings, makes them one of the most picturesque locations in the city.
At the base of the steps, the elegant Fontana della Barcaccia, a Baroque fountain designed by Pietro Bernini and his son Gian Lorenzo Bernini, adds to the charm of the setting. This beautifully carved fountain, depicting a half-sunken boat, commemorates a great flood of the Tiber River.
Borghese Gallery
Housed within the stunning Villa Borghese, the Borghese Gallery is one of the most prestigious art museums in Rome. Originally built as a private collection for Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the early 17th century, it now showcases an extraordinary collection of masterpieces by some of history’s most celebrated artists.
The gallery is renowned for its impressive collection of Baroque and Renaissance art, featuring works by Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, and Peter Paul Rubens. One of its main highlights is the breathtaking sculptures by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, including Apollo and Daphne and The Rape of Proserpina, which demonstrate an extraordinary mastery of movement and emotion in marble.
