Visit Rome in 3 days: best neighborhoods & must-do activities

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• Solo female travel safety tips

• Perfect destinations for women traveling alone

• 7, 10, and 15-day itineraries

• Off-the-beaten-path locations

• Best time to visit Italy

• Activities for solo female travelers

• Trip preparation guide

Day 1: Ancient Rome and Monti Neighborhood

Morning: At the Foot of the Colosseum and Forum for a Journey Through History

Starting at 8:30 AM, arrive at the world's most famous amphitheater, right in Rome's center. To visit the Colosseum, begin with the arena where 50,000 spectators cheered for gladiators. Then cross through the Roman Forum, the ancient empire's nerve center, and climb Palatine Hill where emperors once resided.

These three sites form an exceptional archaeological complex accessible with a single entrance ticket for €18.

• 8:30 AM: Colosseum (duration 1h)
• 10:00 AM: Roman Forum (duration 1h30)
• 11:30 AM: Palatine Hill (duration 1h)

Afternoon: Boutiques, Trattorias and Street Art on Monti's Cobblestones

Then head to Via del Boschetto to stroll between artisan boutiques and art galleries. Don't miss Blu's street art on Via del Cardello, a true open-air museum that surprises at every glance.

📷 My favorite photo spots:

• the stairs of Via Madonna dei Monti
• the rooftop terrace of Hotel Artemide's Roof Garden
• the mural on Via Panisperna

Evening: Roman Aperitivo on a Terrace Overlooking the Forums

End this historic day at the terrace of Salotto 42 (Piazza di Pietra), facing Hadrian's Temple, where I recommend savoring an Aperol Spritz (€7), a tangy cocktail that makes the evening sweeter.

To avoid crowds, choose terraces after 6:30 PM when tour groups return to their hotels.

• Salotto 42: designer terrace facing ancient ruins
• Ai Tre Scalini: authentic atmosphere in Monti
• Jerry Thomas: hidden speakeasy for creative cocktails

Day 2: Vatican, Art and Panoramas

Morning: Visit the Vatican, St. Peter's Basilica and the Iconic Square

Arrive at opening time (7 AM) at St. Peter's Basilica to admire Michelangelo's Pietà in the peaceful morning atmosphere. I was lucky enough to experience that magical moment when the golden morning light illuminates the white marble...

Then climb the 551 steps to the dome (€10) for a panoramic view of the city. St. Peter's Square, designed by Bernini, can accommodate 300,000 people.

Afternoon: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel for Artistic Immersion

Plan 3 hours minimum for this visit that culminates before the Last Judgment fresco.

• book your time slot (€17 + €4 booking fee)
• start with the historical galleries
• finish with the Sistine Chapel

Evening: Stroll Along the Tiber and Dinner in Prati

Walk down to Castel Sant'Angelo then follow the Tiber riverbanks to the Prati district. This 2-kilometer walk offers superb views of St. Peter's dome.

Then treat yourself to dinner in this elegant neighborhood where Romans enjoy their evenings away from tourist circuits.

• Il Sorpasso: modern cuisine, lively terrace
• Piperno: Jewish-Roman specialties since 1860
• Ginger: creative fusion in a contemporary setting

Day 3: Dolce Vita, Vibrant Neighborhoods and Secret Spots

Morning: Authentic Trastevere and Gourmet Awakening

Cross Ponte Sisto at 8 AM to discover the Trastevere neighborhood before the tourist influx. Its cobbled streets preserve the city's popular soul with their ochre facades and family trattorias.

Start with a cappuccino at Bar San Calisto (Piazza San Calisto), a local institution since 1960, then explore the Porta Portese market (Sundays only) to hunt for authentic antiques.

• Bar San Calisto: authentic local coffee spot
• Mama Eat: creative and organic brunch
• Checchino dal 1887: historic institution

Afternoon: Pantheon, Piazza Navona and Shopping at Campo de' Fiori

This pedestrian area concentrates Roman lifestyle between culture and shopping, perfect for a relaxing shopping activity.

👟 Walking itinerary (2h):

• Pantheon (30 min)
• Piazza Navona (30 min)
• Campo de' Fiori (1h shopping)

• Berta: artisan leather goods
• Arsenale: contemporary creations
• Volpetti: gourmet grocery and Roman specialties

Evening: Rooftop Aperitivo and Nighttime Stroll

Complete your adventure at the rooftop of Hotel Artemide (Via Nazionale) for an aperitivo with a 360° view over the tiled rooftops.

Then stroll through the illuminated streets to the Trevi Fountain, magical under the night spotlights. Don't forget to keep a coin to throw into the fountain and make a wish!

• Hotel Artemide: exceptional panorama
• Aroma Restaurant: direct view of the Colosseum
• Roof Garden Circus: intimate atmosphere

Bonus: My Best Shopping, Food and Instagram-Worthy Addresses

Cafés with Roman Soul:

• Sant'Eustachio: roasting since 1938, with a perfectly guarded secret
• Ginger: trendy brunch near the Pantheon
• Checchino dal 1887: Testaccio district institution

Secret Boutiques:

• Ibiz: artisan leather goods on Via dei Cappuccini
• Arsenale: contemporary creations on Via del Governo Vecchio
• Vertecchi: art stationery since 1948

Must-Visit Instagram Spots:

• Aventine Hill keyhole (view of St. Peter's)
• Ponte Sant'Angelo at sunset
• Spanish Steps at sunrise

FAQ: Visiting Rome in 3 Days for Solo Female Travelers

What Tickets and Passes Should You Buy for a Stress-Free Rome Visit?

How to Get Around Rome Easily During 3 Days?

• download the Citymapper app for directions
• avoid metro during rush hours (8-9 AM, 6-7 PM)
• prioritize walking between Colosseum and Vatican (45 min)

What's the Best Time to Visit Rome for Solo Female Travelers?

• April: blooming season, mild temperatures
• May: perfect weather but very busy
• October: golden landscapes, fewer crowds
• November: no crowds but rainy weather

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