3 day itinerary for Rome

Itinerary

Rome is a treasure trove of history, culture, and delicious food, making it a fantastic destination for families. Here’s a fun and budget-friendly 3-day itinerary that balances cultural experiences with family-friendly activities. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Ancient Rome & Trastevere

Morning: Colosseum & Roman Forum

• Start your day early at the Colosseum. Book your tickets online in advance to skip the long lines. Kids will love imagining the gladiators and wild animals that once roamed this iconic arena!
• After exploring the Colosseum, stroll over to the Roman Forum. This was the heart of ancient Rome, and wandering through the ruins is like stepping back in time. Don’t forget to grab a family photo with the stunning backdrop!

Lunch: Trattoria in Monti

• Head to the nearby Monti neighborhood for lunch. Look for a family-friendly trattoria where you can enjoy classic Roman dishes like pasta alla carbonara or cacio e pepe. Many places offer kid-friendly options too!

Afternoon: Palatine Hill

• After lunch, explore Palatine Hill. The views of the Forum and Circus Maximus are breathtaking, and the gardens are a lovely spot for the kids to run around. Plus, it’s a great way to learn about the origins of Rome!

Evening: Trastevere Stroll

• Make your way to Trastevere for the evening. This charming neighborhood is perfect for wandering. Check out the beautiful Santa Maria in Trastevere church, and let the kids enjoy some gelato from a local shop.
• For dinner, find a family-friendly pizzeria. The kids will love the pizza, and you can enjoy a nice glass of wine!

## Day 2: Vatican City & Surroundings

Morning: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

• Start your day at the Vatican Museums. Again, booking tickets in advance is key! The kids will be amazed by the art and history, and the Sistine Chapel is a must-see. Consider a family-friendly guided tour to keep everyone engaged.

Lunch: Vatican Area

• After the museums, grab lunch at a nearby café. Look for places that offer panini or pasta dishes. Many spots have outdoor seating, which is lovely on a sunny day!

Afternoon: St. Peter’s Basilica

• After lunch, visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Climbing to the dome is a fun adventure for the family, and the views from the top are worth it! If you have younger kids, you can take turns going up while someone stays with them below.

Evening: Castel Sant’Angelo

• Head to Castel Sant’Angelo for a leisurely evening. The castle has a fascinating history, and the views of the Tiber River are stunning. There’s also a lovely park nearby where the kids can play.
• For dinner, find a restaurant along the river. Enjoy some Roman specialties while watching the sunset!

## Day 3: Art, Parks, and Local Life

Morning: Galleria Borghese

• Start your day at the Galleria Borghese. This art gallery is home to incredible works by Caravaggio and Bernini. It’s smaller than other museums, making it manageable for families. Be sure to book your tickets in advance!

Lunch: Picnic in Villa Borghese

• After the gallery, enjoy a picnic lunch in Villa Borghese. You can grab some sandwiches or snacks from a nearby café and find a nice spot in the park. The kids can run around and enjoy the gardens!

Afternoon: Explore the Spanish Steps & Trevi Fountain

• After your picnic, take a leisurely stroll to the Spanish Steps. Climb to the top for a great view, and then head to the Trevi Fountain. Don’t forget to toss a coin in the fountain to ensure your return to Rome!

Evening: Local Neighborhood Exploration

• Spend your last evening exploring a local neighborhood like Testaccio or Campo de’ Fiori. These areas are less touristy and offer a glimpse into local life. You can find markets, shops, and more family-friendly dining options.
• For dinner, try a local trattoria or a gelateria for a sweet treat to end your trip!

Tips for a Family-Friendly Experience:

• Transportation: Use public transport (buses and metro) to get around. It’s budget-friendly and a fun experience for kids!
• Rest Breaks: Don’t forget to take breaks! Rome can be overwhelming, so find parks or cafes to relax.
• Engage the Kids: Consider scavenger hunts or fun facts about the places you visit to keep the kids engaged.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Rome! Enjoy your trip! 🍝🏛️✨