7-Day Itinerary to Explore the Eternal City of Rome

Day 1: Arrival and Ancient Rome

• Morning: Arrive at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and take a taxi or bus to your hotel. Check-in and freshen up.
• 10:00 AM: Start your day by exploring the Colosseum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Medieval World. Take a guided tour to learn about gladiators and ancient Roman life.
• 12:30 PM: Walk to the nearby Roman Forum, once the heart of Ancient Rome. Discover ancient ruins, temples, and basilicas.
• 2:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, trying authentic Italian cuisine like carbonara or amatriciana.
• 3:30 PM: Visit the Arch of Constantine, an impressive monument marking the victory of Constantine over Maxentius in 312 AD.
• 5:00 PM: Take a stroll around the Piazza del Popolo, admiring the beautiful architecture and fountains.
• 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city.

Day 2: Vatican City

• 9:00 AM: Start your day by visiting the Vatican Museums. With over 1 million works of art on display, you’ll need several hours to explore this vast complex.
• 12:30 PM: Take a guided tour of the Sistine Chapel, where you can admire Michelangelo’s famous frescoes, including the ceiling and “The Last Judgment” on the altar wall.
• 2:00 PM: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest Christian churches in the world. Admire its beautiful architecture and stunning mosaics.
• 4:00 PM: Explore the Vatican Gardens, a peaceful oasis within the city. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant near the Vatican.

Day 3: Ancient Rome and More

• 9:30 AM: Visit the Castel Sant’Angelo, an ancient fortress built in the 2nd century AD. Explore its beautiful architecture, gardens, and stunning views of the city.
• 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local café or restaurant.
• 1:30 PM: Visit the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome. Take time to admire its impressive architecture and the tomb of Raphael.
• 3:30 PM: Explore the charming neighborhood of Trastevere, known for its narrow streets, quaint piazzas, and lively atmosphere.
• 6:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Italian dinner at a local trattoria.

Day 4: Roman Ruins

• 9:00 AM: Visit the Baths of Caracalla, an ancient Roman bath complex that once served as a hub for social activity. Explore its impressive architecture and ruins.
• 11:30 AM: Visit the Circus Maximus, once the site of ancient chariot races and gladiator battles. Take time to imagine the excitement and energy of this ancient stadium.
• 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the Roman Forum.
• 2:30 PM: Explore the Piazza Navona, an charming square with beautiful fountains, ornate architecture, and a lively atmosphere.
• 5:00 PM: Take a stroll around the Trevi Fountain, one of the most famous landmarks in Rome. Make a wish and toss a coin into the water.

Day 5: The Best of Rome

• 9:30 AM: Visit the Capuchin Crypt, an unusual attraction with the skeletal remains of over 4,000 Capuchin friars.
• 11:00 AM: Explore the charming neighborhood of Monti, known for its narrow streets, quaint piazzas, and lively atmosphere. Find a local café or bakery to grab a snack.
• 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria or restaurant.
• 2:00 PM: Visit the Campo de’ Fiori, an ancient market square with stunning architecture, street performers, and a lively atmosphere.
• 4:00 PM: Explore the charming neighborhood of Testaccio, known for its authentic Italian cuisine, bustling markets, and historic landmarks.

Day 6: The Vatican’s Hidden Gems

• 9:30 AM: Visit the Pontifical Villas, an impressive complex with beautiful gardens and stunning architecture. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the Vatican.
• 1:30 PM: Explore the Gregorian Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius, an ancient bronze statue in the heart of Rome. Take time to admire its beauty and history.
• 3:30 PM: Visit the Tomb of Saint Peter, an impressive monument marking the final resting place of the first Pope.
• 5:00 PM: Take a stroll around the Piazza del Risorgimento, admiring the beautiful architecture and historic landmarks.

Day 7: Last-Minute Adventures

• Morning: Spend the morning exploring any last-minute attractions or neighborhoods you haven’t visited yet. Grab a coffee at a local café or bakery.
• Afternoon: Enjoy your final lunch in Rome at a local trattoria or restaurant.
• 2:00 PM: Visit the Castel Romano, an ancient castle with stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Take time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
• 4:00 PM: Return to your hotel for some downtime or shopping in the nearby area.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant before departing Rome.

This itinerary provides a mix of ancient history, stunning architecture, and cultural experiences that will give you a well-rounded taste of the Eternal City. Buon viaggio!