Your Ultimate 7-Day Rome Itinerary: What to See First

Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and culinary delights. With its rich tapestry of ancient ruins, world-renowned art, and vibrant street life, a week in Rome can be a life-changing experience. Whether you're a history buff, an art aficionado, or simply someone who loves good food, this 7-day itinerary will guide you through the best Rome has to offer. Here’s how to make the most of your seven days in this timeless city.

Day 1: Embrace Ancient Rome

Morning: The Colosseum and Roman Forum

Start your Roman adventure with a visit to the iconic Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater, once the site of gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, is a must-see. To avoid long lines, book your tickets online in advance and consider joining a guided tour to enrich your visit with historical insights.

Just a short walk from the Colosseum is the Roman Forum. Wander through the ruins of what was once the center of Roman public life. Marvel at the remnants of temples, basilicas, and arches that echo the grandeur of ancient Rome.

Afternoon: Palatine Hill and Capitoline Museums

Next, head to Palatine Hill, where legend has it that Rome was founded. This area offers spectacular views of the Forum and the Colosseum, as well as fascinating archaeological sites.

After exploring Palatine Hill, visit the Capitoline Museums. Located on Capitoline Hill, these museums house an extensive collection of Roman artifacts, including the famous Capitoline Wolf statue. The museum's collections provide a comprehensive overview of Rome's history and artistic achievements.

Evening: Dinner in Trastevere

Conclude your first day with a stroll through Trastevere, one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods. The cobblestone streets are lined with lively bars and traditional trattorias. Enjoy a delicious Italian meal at a local eatery, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Day 2: Renaissance and Baroque Splendor

Morning: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Dedicate your second day to exploring the Vatican. Begin with the Vatican Museums, which house an incredible array of art and historical artifacts. The highlight of your visit will be the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s frescoes, including the iconic "Creation of Adam," adorn the ceiling.

Afternoon: St. Peter’s Basilica and Piazza San Pietro

After the museums, make your way to St. Peter’s Basilica. This stunning church, one of the largest in the world, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city and Vatican City.

Spend the afternoon relaxing in Piazza San Pietro, the grand square in front of the basilica. Take in the magnificent Bernini-designed colonnades and the towering obelisk at the center.

Evening: Explore the Piazza Navona Area

In the evening, head to Piazza Navona. This lively square is known for its beautiful Baroque fountains, including Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. The area is filled with street artists, musicians, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Enjoy a leisurely dinner while watching the world go by.

Day 3: Roman Holiday and Hidden Gems

Morning: Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain

Start your day at the Spanish Steps, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Climb the steps to reach the Trinità dei Monti church and enjoy a beautiful view of the city.

From the Spanish Steps, walk to the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome, as the tradition goes. Spend some time admiring this Baroque masterpiece and the surrounding area.

Afternoon: Villa Borghese and Borghese Gallery

In the afternoon, head to Villa Borghese, a large public park that offers a relaxing escape from the city. Within the park, visit the Borghese Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, including works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. Reservations are required, so book your tickets in advance.

Evening: Dinner Near Piazza del Popolo

Conclude your day with a meal near Piazza del Popolo, a bustling square with a mix of traditional and modern dining options. The area is also a great place for a post-dinner stroll, with plenty of shops and cafes to explore.

Day 4: Historical Depths and Culinary Delights

Morning: Catacombs and Appian Way

Explore the Catacombs of Rome in the morning. These underground burial sites offer a unique glimpse into early Christian history. The Catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano are particularly notable.

Afterward, walk or bike along the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica), one of Rome’s oldest roads. The ancient cobblestone path leads you past historical sites like the Circus of Maxentius and the Tomb of Cecilia Metella.

Afternoon: Testaccio Market

For lunch, head to the Testaccio Market. This vibrant food market is a great place to sample local delicacies and experience authentic Roman flavors. Enjoy fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and street food.

Evening: Traditional Roman Dinner

For dinner, seek out a traditional Roman trattoria. Try classic dishes such as carbonara, amatriciana, or cacio e pepe. Rome is known for its hearty, flavorful cuisine, and a local trattoria is the perfect place to savor it.

Day 5: Ancient Wonders and Modern Marvels

Morning: Baths of Caracalla and Circus Maximus

Begin your day with a visit to the Baths of Caracalla. These ancient thermal baths are remarkably well-preserved and offer insight into Roman leisure culture.

From there, walk to Circus Maximus, the site of ancient chariot races. Although little remains of the original structure, the open space provides a sense of the scale and grandeur of the games that once took place here.

Afternoon: Explore the Jewish Quarter

In the afternoon, explore the Jewish Quarter (Ghetto Ebraico). This historic neighborhood is home to significant landmarks, such as the Great Synagogue of Rome and the Jewish Museum. The area is also known for its delicious Roman-Jewish cuisine.

Evening: Sunset at the Janiculum Hill

In the evening, head to Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) for one of the best sunset views in Rome. The hill offers a panoramic vista of the city and is a peaceful spot to relax after a busy day.

Day 6: Artistic Immersion

Morning: Borromini and Bernini

Spend the morning visiting churches designed by Francesco Borromini and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Santa Maria della Vittoria, with its Cornaro Chapel and Bernini’s Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, and Sant’Agnese in Agone, designed by Borromini, are excellent examples of Baroque architecture.

Afternoon: Explore Rome’s Museums

Visit the National Gallery of Modern Art or the Palazzo delle Esposizioni for a dose of modern and contemporary art. Rome’s museums offer a wide range of art from various periods and styles, providing a rich cultural experience.

Evening: Dinner and Nightlife

For your final evening in Rome, enjoy a meal in a trendy neighborhood like Monti or Testaccio. After dinner, explore Rome’s nightlife, whether it’s a cocktail bar, live music venue, or a leisurely evening walk.

Day 7: Leisure and Reflection

Morning: Villa Farnesina and Trastevere

On your last day, visit Villa Farnesina, a Renaissance villa with stunning frescoes by Raphael. Afterward, revisit Trastevere for some last-minute shopping and exploration.

Afternoon: Relax and Reflect

Spend your final afternoon relaxing in one of Rome’s many beautiful parks or piazzas. Reflect on your journey and savor a final gelato or espresso.

Evening: Farewell Dinner

For your final dinner in Rome, choose a special restaurant to celebrate the end of your Italian adventure. Enjoy a sumptuous meal and raise a toast to a memorable week in the Eternal City.

Conclusion

Rome’s allure is undeniable, with its blend of ancient history, Renaissance art, and vibrant modern culture. This 7-day itinerary provides a comprehensive overview of the city’s must-see sights and hidden gems, ensuring you experience the best that Rome has to offer. For more travel inspiration and guides to other incredible destinations, visit Travel Report. Your next adventure awaits!