Ciao! I'm thrilled to help you plan a delightful 3-day itinerary in the Eternal City, Roma! With a group of 12, including two lovely nonni (grandparents) aged 85, we’ll keep the pace relaxed and enjoyable. Let’s dive into the magic of Rome!

Day 1: Classic Rome

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café. Try a classic Italian cornetto and cappuccino.
• Vatican City: Since you’re staying on Via Angelo Emo, you’re just a short walk from the Vatican. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica. The grandeur of the basilica is breathtaking, and there are plenty of benches for the nonni to rest if needed. Consider booking a guided tour to skip the lines!

Lunch:

• Trattoria: Head to Trattoria Da Enzo in Trastevere (about a 15-minute taxi ride). Enjoy traditional Roman dishes like Cacio e Pepe or Saltimbocca. Expect to spend around €25-30 per person.

Afternoon:

• Explore Trastevere: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Trastevere. The cobblestone paths and vibrant atmosphere are delightful. You can visit Santa Maria in Trastevere, a beautiful church with stunning mosaics.

Evening:

• Dinner: For dinner, try Trattoria Da Gino near the Vatican. It’s cozy and offers a great selection of Roman cuisine. Again, budget around €25-30 per person.
• Relax: After dinner, take a gentle walk along the Tiber River, enjoying the evening lights of the city.

Day 2: Ancient Rome

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café.
• Colosseum & Roman Forum: Start your day at the Colosseum. Book a guided tour that includes the Roman Forum. The tour will help the group understand the history without feeling rushed. There are plenty of places to sit and rest.

Lunch:

• Trattoria: After exploring, head to Trattoria Pizzeria Da Baffetto for some delicious pizza. It’s a local favorite and offers a cozy atmosphere. Expect to spend around €25-30 per person.

Afternoon:

• Palatine Hill: If the group is up for it, take a gentle walk up to Palatine Hill. The views are stunning, and it’s a lovely place to relax. If the nonni need a break, there are plenty of shaded areas to sit.

Evening:

• Dinner: Dine at Trattoria Da Teo in Trastevere. It’s known for its authentic Roman dishes and warm atmosphere. Again, budget around €25-30 per person.
• Gelato: After dinner, treat yourselves to gelato at Gelateria Fatamorgana. It’s a perfect way to end the day!

Day 3: Art and Leisure

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start with a leisurely breakfast at a local café.
• Borghese Gallery: Visit the Borghese Gallery. It’s a beautiful museum with a manageable size, perfect for a relaxed visit. Make sure to book tickets in advance!

Lunch:

• Trattoria: For lunch, head to Trattoria Il Brillo Parlante near the gallery. They offer a variety of dishes in a charming setting, with prices around €25-30 per person.

Afternoon:

• Villa Borghese Gardens: After lunch, take a stroll in the Villa Borghese Gardens. It’s a lovely place to relax, and you can rent a small electric boat on the lake if the group feels adventurous!

Evening:

• Dinner: For your final dinner, consider Trattoria Da Francesco in the Jewish Ghetto. It’s a bit off the beaten path but offers fantastic Roman-Jewish cuisine. Again, budget around €25-30 per person.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a gentle walk to the nearby Piazza Navona to enjoy the beautiful fountains and lively atmosphere.

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider using taxis or private shuttles for the group, especially for the nonni, to make it easier to get around.
• Pace: Always keep an eye on the energy levels of the group, especially the nonni. It’s perfectly fine to skip a site or take longer breaks.
• Reservations: Make reservations for restaurants and major attractions to avoid long waits.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Rome! Buon viaggio! 🌟