Itinerary: Rome in 7 Days
Ultimate Guide to Exploring Rome in 7 Days: An Odyssey Through History and Culture
- Day 1: St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican Museums
- Evening:
- Day 2: Villa d'Este and Hadrian's Villa
- Evening:
- Day 3: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Evening:
- Day 4: Ostia Antica
- Evening:
- Day 5: Castel Sant'Angelo, Pantheon and Trevi Fountain
- Evening:
- Day 6: Villa Borghese, Piazza di Spagna and Borghese Gallery
- Evening:
- Day 7: Pompeii
- Evening:
- Info:
Visiting Rome in 7 days is to embark on a fascinating journey through the history, culture and art that shaped the face of Europe and the Western world. Here is a personal guide to exploring the Eternal City, with tips to make the most of your stay.
Staying in Rome for a different number of days? Discover our itineraries for 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days and 6 days here. You can also find here all our recommended itineraries.
Day 1: St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican Museums
Start your adventure with the majestic St. Peter's Basilica, the heart of Christendom. After admiring the basilica, head to the Vatican Museums. Inside, don't miss the Sistine Chapel; its frescoes by Michelangelo are a must-see. You can find tickets here.
Evening:
Cross the river to reach the lively Trastevere neighborhood, known for its cobbled streets and bohemian atmosphere. You'll find a multitude of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Roman cuisine and listen to live music.
Day 2: Villa d'Este and Hadrian's Villa
On the second day, escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover Villa d'Este in Tivoli, famous for its gardens and artistic fountains. You can buy a pass for both villas here. Then explore Hadrian's Villa, an ancient residence of Emperor Hadrian, for a dive into history Roman. Departure from Rome Possible.
Evening:
After a day in Tivoli, return to Rome and head to the Monti district, a trendy area full of charm with wine bars and bistros serving excellent plates of antipasti and artisan pasta.
Day 3: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Back in Rome to visit the Colosseum, an eternal symbol of the power of the Roman Empire. Buy your entrance ticket here. Then, stroll through the Roman Forum, the nerve center of ancient Rome, then climb the Palatine Hill, where the city has its legendary roots.
Evening:
Explore the Testaccio district, known for its bustling nightlife. Testaccio is the perfect place for a night out at a nightclub or for a drink at one of the many trendy bars.
Day 4: Ostia Antica
Take a day to stroll through the ruins of Ostia Antica, the ancient port of Rome. It's like a journey through time. Book a guided tour here to enrich your experience. Site accessible by public transport or day trip from Rome possible.
Ostia Antica (Credit: Stefano Tammaro – stock.adobe.com).
Evening:
Relax in the Ostia district, near the sea. Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants or have a cocktail on a terrace overlooking the sea.
Day 5: Castel Sant'Angelo, Pantheon and Trevi Fountain
Discover Castel Sant'Angelo, the former tomb of the Emperor Hadrian and its imposing fortress. Then head to the Pantheon to contemplate its famous eye-like opening. End your day by making a wish at the Trevi Fountain. To avoid queues, consider a guided tour, which you can book here.
Evening:
Spend your evening in the chic Prati district, which is full of gourmet restaurants and elegant bars for a sophisticated aperitivo or a last drink in a more refined setting.
Day 6: Villa Borghese, Piazza di Spagna and Borghese Gallery
Relax in the gardens of Villa Borghèse, a haven of peace in the heart of Rome. Don't miss the Borghese Gallery, book your ticket here well in advance, to admire the works of Caravaggio, Bernini and other masters. Then, stroll towards Piazza di Spagna to sit on the famous steps.
Evening:
After a cultural day, enjoy a relaxing evening in the Piazza del Popolo area, with its many cafés and pleasant terraces where you can often hear street musicians.
Day 7: Pompeii
For your last day, embark on a day trip to Pompeii, the city frozen in time under the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. It's a full day, so book your organized tour here to make the most of this historical experience.
Evening:
Back in Rome, the Campo de' Fiori district is the perfect place to end your stay. With its daytime market transforming into a bustling nightlife hub after sunset, it's a perfect blend of history and modernity.
What site are you most looking forward to visiting on your own trip to Rome, and why? Share your thoughts and travel tips in the comments below, and let's enrich together our knowledge of the magnificent Eternal City! Thank you.
Info:
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