Lauren How to Spend 5 Days in Rome: A Detailed Itinerary for the Ultimate Roman Adventure
Rome, the Eternal City, is a captivating destination with a blend of history, art, and culinary experiences. A five-day itinerary is perfect to immerse yourself in the city’s iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and delicious food.
Let’s take a look at how to spend 5 days in Rome, from must-see attractions to the best restaurants and hotels for a memorable vacation in Italy.
**Table of Contents**
1. Day 1: Arrival and Historical Overview
2. Day 2: Exploring Ancient Rome
3. Day 3: Vatican City and Trastevere
4. Day 4: Day Trip to Tivoli
5. Day 5: Shopping, Relaxing, and Departure
6. Where to Stay in Rome
7. Best Times to Visit Rome
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Day 1: Arrival and Historical Overview
Morning: Welcome to Rome
After arriving in Rome, check into your hotel, drop off your bags, and get ready to explore. Start by grabbing a light breakfast at Roscioli Caffè, a famous bakery near Campo de’ Fiori. Here you can try a classic Italian cornetto and cappuccino to fuel up for the day.
Afternoon: Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain
Your Roman adventure starts with a stroll through Piazza Navona. Admire the beautiful Baroque architecture and the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini. From there, make your way to the Pantheon, an ancient marvel that was once a temple dedicated to the Roman gods. Entry is free, but you can book a guided tour for around €20 to gain deeper insights into its history.
Afterward, head to the Trevi Fountain, where legend has it that tossing a coin over your shoulder will ensure your return to Rome.
Evening: Dinner and Sunset Views at the Spanish Steps
For dinner, stop by La Prosciutteria Trevi, a casual eatery with a great selection of cured meats and cheeses. Then, head over to the Spanish Steps to catch the sunset. As the day winds down, treat yourself to some gelato from Giolitti, one of Rome’s oldest gelaterias.
Day 2: Exploring Ancient Rome
Morning: The Colosseum and Roman Forum
Begin your second day at the Colosseum, one of the most iconic structures in the world. It’s best to pre-book your tickets online (around €18) to skip the lines. Opt for a guided tour or an audio guide to get the full experience. Afterward, head next door to the Roman Forum, the center of ancient Roman life.
Afternoon: Palatine Hill and Capitoline Museums
Once you’ve explored the Forum, continue to Palatine Hill, where Rome’s elite once lived. The views from the hilltop are breathtaking, and you can spend a good hour here taking in the sights. For lunch, stop by Osteria da Fortunata in the nearby Jewish Ghetto for a plate of fresh pasta.
After lunch, head to the Capitoline Museums (€16), a treasure trove of ancient sculptures, Renaissance art, and relics from Rome’s history.
Evening: Dining in the Monti District
Wrap up the day with dinner in the trendy Monti District. Ai Tre Scalini is a popular spot serving up traditional Roman dishes in a cozy, authentic setting. Try the carbonara or cacio e pepe.
Day 3: Vatican City and Trastevere
Morning: Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
On day three, head to Vatican City. It’s best to book skip-the-line tickets (€17) for the Vatican Museums in advance. You’ll want to allocate at least three hours to see the highlights, including the Sistine Chapel. Afterward, make your way to St. Peter’s Basilica (free entry) and climb to the top of the dome (€10) for a panoramic view of Rome.
Afternoon: Castel Sant’Angelo and Lunch in Trastevere
Walk to Castel Sant’Angelo (€15) and learn about its fascinating history, from being a mausoleum to a papal fortress.
For lunch, cross the Tiber River into Trastevere and dine at Terra di Siena, a family-run restaurant located at Piazza di Pasquino 77 00186 Rome, Italy.
Evening: Discover Trastevere
Spend the evening wandering the charming, narrow streets of Trastevere. Grab an aperitivo at Freni e Frizioni or indulge in some Roman street food at Trapizzino.
Day 4: Day Trip to Tivoli
Morning: Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana
On day four, escape the city and take a day trip to Tivoli, about an hour outside of Rome. Start with Villa d’Este (€12), a Renaissance villa known for its stunning gardens and fountains. Afterward, head to Villa Adriana (Hadrian’s Villa) (€10), an ancient Roman retreat that’s spread over 300 acres.
Afternoon: Lunch in Tivoli
Enjoy lunch at Antica Trattoria del Falcone in Tivoli, a traditional eatery offering local dishes and wine. You’ll find that Tivoli has a slower pace, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge.
Evening: Return to Rome and Pizza Night
Return to Rome in the evening and cap off your day with some pizza. Pizzarium near the Vatican is one of the city’s best pizza joints, known for its creative toppings and crunchy dough.
Day 5: Shopping, Relaxing, and Departure
Morning: Shopping on Via del Corso and Campo de’ Fiori Market
On your final day in Rome, spend the morning exploring the shops along Via del Corso. From luxury brands to charming boutiques, you’ll find plenty of options for souvenirs. Don’t miss the Campo de’ Fiori market, where you can buy fresh produce, local olive oils, and Italian spices.
Afternoon: Villa Borghese and Piazza del Popolo
After shopping, take a leisurely walk through the Villa Borghese Gardens. If time permits, visit the Galleria Borghese (€20) to see works by Bernini and Caravaggio. Continue your walk to Piazza del Popolo, a large square with beautiful fountains and twin churches.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
End your Roman holiday with a farewell dinner at Tonnarello in Trastevere, known for its hearty Roman fare. Toast to a successful vacation with a glass of local wine and savor your last moments in the Eternal City.
Where to Stay in Rome
- Hotel de Russie (Luxury) – A luxury hotel near Piazza del Popolo, famous for its beautiful garden and spa.
- Hotel Artemide (Mid-Range) – Located on Via Nazionale, this hotel offers modern amenities, a great rooftop bar, and excellent service.
- Trastevere Rooms (Budget) – A cozy guesthouse in the heart of Trastevere, perfect for budget travelers looking for comfort and convenience.
Best Times to Visit Rome
The best time to visit Rome is from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The crowds are also relatively smaller compared to the peak summer months. If you visit in July or August, be prepared for scorching heat and larger crowds at major attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many days should I spend in Rome?
A: Five days in Rome is ideal to explore the major sites, enjoy the local cuisine, and take a short day trip.
Q: What is the best way to get around Rome?
A: Walking is the best way to see most of the historic center. For longer distances, use Rome’s efficient metro system or buses.
Q: Should I book tickets in advance?
A: Yes, booking tickets for major attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues.
Q: What are the best foods to try in Rome?
A: Must-try dishes include carbonara, cacio e pepe, supplì (fried rice balls), and porchetta. Don’t forget to indulge in gelato!
Conclusion: How to Spend 5 Days in Rome
If you’re wondering how to spend 5 days in Rome, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of sightseeing, culinary adventures, and relaxation. From ancient ruins and Renaissance art to charming neighborhoods and delicious food, Rome has something for every traveler. Pre-plan your trip, book your tickets, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!
By following this detailed guide, you’ll have an unforgettable experience in the Eternal City. Happy travels!
