7 Days in Rome: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Rome is a city where 3,000 years of history sits side-by-side with modern life. This 7-day itinerary is perfectly paced for first-time visitors, blending must-see ancient landmarks with immersive local experiences, ensuring you don’t just see the city, but feel its magic.

Day 1: Arrive and Ancient Rome Essentials

Time	Activity	Focus
Afternoon	Arrive and Settle In	Check into your accommodation, preferably near the Pantheon or Trastevere for easy access to sights and nightlife.
Late Afternoon	The Pantheon	Start with this architectural marvel. The sheer scale and open oculus are breathtaking. Tip: Arrive just before closing time for fewer crowds.
Evening	Dinner in the Centro Storico	Find a traditional trattoria near the Pantheon. Order Cacio e Pepe and a glass of Roman wine.

Day 2: Emperors, Gladiators, and Ruins

This day is dedicated to Rome’s powerful imperial past.

Morning: The Colosseum & Roman Forum: Book your timed-entry tickets in advance! Start at the Colosseum, then use your ticket to wander through the adjacent Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the birthplace of Rome.
Lunch: Grab a simple, delicious pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) from a bakery near the Forum.
Afternoon: Capitoline Museums: Located on Capitoline Hill (designed by Michelangelo), these museums house some of the city’s most important classical sculptures and offer a fantastic viewpoint over the Forum.
Evening: Enjoy the ritual of an aperitivo in the Monti neighborhood, known for its bohemian, low-key vibe.

Day 3: Vatican City – A Day of Faith and Art

Spend a full day exploring the world’s smallest country. Remember to dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).

Morning: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: This is a huge undertaking. Pre-booking a guided tour is highly recommended to bypass lines and get context for Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel.
Lunch: Find a café outside the Vatican walls for a quick lunch.
Afternoon: St. Peter’s Basilica: Explore the largest church in the world. Walk up to the dome (La Cupola) for an unbelievable panoramic view of Rome (a tough climb, but worth it!).
Evening: Head back to the Prati neighborhood for a quiet, high-quality dinner.

Day 4: Baroque Beauty and Wishing Wells

Today is about the elegant squares and fountains of the Baroque period.

Morning: Borghese Gallery and Gardens: This must be booked weeks in advance! It houses masterpieces by Bernini (like the Apollo and Daphne) and Caravaggio. Afterward, relax and rent a rowboat in the beautiful Villa Borghese Gardens.
Lunch: Picnic lunch in the gardens or a cafe nearby.
Afternoon: Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain: Join the crowds to see the Spanish Steps and then walk to the stunning Trevi Fountain. Throw a coin over your shoulder to ensure your return to Rome!
Evening: Gelato and a nighttime walk. Seeing the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon lit up after dark is an absolute must-do Roman experience.

Day 5: Local Life and Culinary Immersion

Take a break from major sites and dive into Roman culture.

Morning: Testaccio Market: This local covered market is an authentic slice of Roman life. Sample local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. It’s perfect for picking up unique edible souvenirs.
Lunch: Take a local pasta-making or cooking class centered around Roman cuisine (Carbonara, Amatriciana, etc.). This is a fun, hands-on activity that doubles as your lunch!
Afternoon: EUR District (The “Other Rome”): If interested in 20th-century architecture, take the Metro to see the stark, Fascist-era architecture of the EUR district. Alternatively, relax at a piscina (public pool).
Evening: Try an authentic Supplì (fried rice ball) from a street vendor before dinner.

Day 6: Charming Trastevere and Catacombs

Morning: Appian Way and Catacombs: Take a bus or taxi out of the central city to explore the ancient Appian Way, lined with umbrella pine trees. Visit the Catacombs of Callixtus or Domitilla for a fascinating look at early Christian burial sites.
Lunch: Return to the lively Trastevere neighborhood for lunch.
Afternoon: Explore Trastevere: Wander the charming, ivy-covered cobblestone streets, browse boutique shops, and visit the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere.
Evening: Trastevere is known for its nightlife. Have dinner here and join the local crowds enjoying street performers and lively bars.

Day 7: Last-Minute Views and Departure

Morning: The Keyhole and Janiculum Hill: Start the day at the Knights of Malta Keyhole on Aventine Hill for the famous view of St. Peter’s Dome perfectly framed. Then, head to Janiculum Hill for one last stunning panoramic view of the entire city.
Late Morning: Last-minute shopping for souvenirs or a final espresso at your favorite cafe.
Afternoon: Departure from Rome Fiumicino (FCO) airport.

📌 Essential First-Timer Tips

Transportation: The Metro is efficient but limited. Plan to use buses, trams, or simply walk (Rome is very walkable). Wear comfortable shoes!
Book Ahead: For the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and especially the Borghese Gallery and Vatican Museums, pre-book your timed-entry tickets online.
Eat Local: Avoid restaurants near major attractions. Look for places tucked away on side streets, often labeled Trattoria or Osteria.

Would you like this itinerary adapted for a different major city, such as New York, Paris, or Tokyo?