Welcome to a quick yet rich journey through one of the most fascinating cities in the world — Rome! If you're only in town for three days, don't worry.
Here's a well-organized list of 7 unforgettable places you shouldn't miss. This guide will help you make the most of your time — and skip the long queues whenever possible!
1. Colosseum and Roman Forum
Icon of Ancient Rome:
Built under Emperor Vespasian and inaugurated in 80 AD, the Colosseum once held over 50,000 spectators. Today, it remains the largest ancient amphitheater still standing. A visit here offers an incredible look into ancient entertainment.
Tickets and Hours:
Entry includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Open daily (except December 25 and January 1). From late March to August, hours are 9:30–19:15. Last entry is one hour before closing.
Entry from €18. Included in the Roma Pass.
2. Pantheon
Architectural Marvel:
Built in 27 BC and later transformed, this temple is one of the best-preserved buildings of ancient Rome. Its impressive dome, with a diameter of 43.3 meters, was a breakthrough in engineering.
Entry Info:
As of July 2023, an entry ticket is required. Closed only on major public holidays.
Entry: €5 standard, free on the first Sunday of the month.
3. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Masterpieces in One Place:
The Vatican Museums span over 5.5 hectares and include stunning galleries like the Pinacoteca, the Pio-Clementino Museum, the Gallery of Maps, Raphael Rooms, and the world-famous Sistine Chapel.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00–18:00 (last entry at 16:00). Closed Sundays and certain holidays.
Online ticket: from €17. Booking online is strongly recommended to skip the lines.
4. Capitoline Museums
Historic Sculpture Collection:
Founded in 1471, these museums hold ancient statues, medieval art, and Renaissance masterpieces. Located on the Capitoline Hill, the museum complex consists of Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo.
Visitor Info:
Open daily from 9:30–19:30. Closed January 1, May 1, and December 31 (half-day).
Entry: €15. Free with Roma Pass. Last entry one hour before closing.
5. Castel Sant'Angelo
Panoramic Views and Rich History:
Once a mausoleum, this cylindrical fortress later served other purposes. Today, it's a museum offering sweeping views over the Tiber River and the city.
Entry and Hours:
Open daily from 9:00–19:30.
Entry: €15. Free with Roma Pass.
6. Piazza Navona
Elegant and Lively:
Built over the Stadium of Domitian, this oval-shaped piazza features the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Each sculpture represents a major waterway: Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Río de la Plata.
7. Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps
Elegant and Iconic:
Dating to 1725, this square is famous for the wide staircase leading up to the Trinità dei Monti. The fountain below, shaped like a sinking boat, was crafted by Pietro Bernini. Sitting on the steps is no longer allowed, with fines for violators.
Conclusion
Dear Lykkers, Rome has a way of capturing hearts with every corner, sculpture, and square. With careful planning and a curious spirit, three days can offer a rich taste of its marvels. Don't forget to book online for popular sites to save time and energy. Whether it's your first visit or your fifth, the Eternal City always has something new to reveal. Happy exploring!
