Rome in Three: Classics, Food & Finds

- Pane e Salame - Near Campo de' FioriCasual Roman cicchetti & sandwiches.
- Da Baffetto - Piazza de' RicciClassic thin-crust Roman pizza.
- Pastificio Guerra - Via della CrocePre-packed fresh pasta to take home.
- Antico Forno Roscioli (shop) - Near Campo de' FioriBaked goods and pantry items.
- La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali - Near ColosseumFamily-run Roman dishes.
- Osteria Pizzeria Da Fortunata - TrastevereFresh pasta & wood-fired pizza.
- Mercato Monti - Monti district (weekend stalls)Independent designers & vintage finds.
- Via Madonna dei Monti shops - MontiBoutiques, artisan jewelry.
- Pizzarium Bonci - Near Vatican (Grezzo area)Famous gourmet pizza by the slice.
- Trattoria Vecchia Roma - Prati areaClassic Roman comfort food.
- Via Condotti boutiques - Near Spanish StepsHigh-end fashion and accessories.
- Bazaar/shops along Via del Corso - Via del CorsoMid-range stores and souvenir options.
All times approximate; walking between most sites is 5–25 minutes. Reserve Colosseum and Vatican tickets in advance.
Day 1 — Classic Centro
Morning
Start at your city-center lodging. Walk to the Spanish Steps and enjoy the view. Continue (10–15 min) to the Trevi Fountain — toss a coin. Stroll to the Pantheon and linger in Piazza della Rotonda.
Afternoon
Lunch near Campo de' Fiori. After, explore Piazza Navona and its fountains; street artists and light shopping. Optional short rest back at your accommodation.
Evening
A relaxed dinner in the Jewish Ghetto or around Campo de' Fiori. Finish with an evening passeggiata (walk) through illuminated streets.
Tips
- Many central sites are pedestrian-friendly; expect cobblestones—comfortable shoes recommended.
- Carry water and a small refillable bottle (public fountains—nasoni—are common). Reserve major-site tickets in advance if desired.
Day 2 — Imperial Rome
Morning
Early start to the Colosseum (pre-book skip-the-line recommended). Cross to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill — allow time for archaeological exploration and views.
Afternoon
Lunch near the Forum/Colosseo. Walk up to Capitoline Hill for city panoramas and visit Capitoline Museums if interested. Leisurely stroll toward Piazza Venezia and Via dei Fori Imperiali.
Evening
Head to Trastevere for dinner — vibrant streets and authentic Roman trattorie. Option: evening gelato or a wine bar.
Tips
- Colosseum/Forum areas have steps and uneven paths; consider light pacing and shade breaks.
- Trastevere has lively evenings; check for quieter trattorie if you prefer calm.
Day 3 — Vatican & Riverside
Morning
Cross the river early to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (book timed entry). Visit St. Peter's Basilica and climb the dome if you want panoramic views.
Afternoon
Lunch in the Prati neighborhood. Walk along the Tiber to Castel Sant'Angelo and then toward Piazza del Popolo. Spend late afternoon shopping along Via del Corso / Via Condotti for fashion and souvenirs.
Evening
Final dinner near your lodging or in Monti for a modern Roman meal. Wrap up souvenir shopping and enjoy an evening stroll.
Tips
- Vatican security queues can be long; timed tickets are strongly recommended. Dress respectfully for basilicas (shoulders/knees covered).
- Many souvenir shops close by 7–8pm; buy key mementos earlier in the day if needed.
Practical Recommendations
- Pace: Designed for walking between nearby sites — daily distances manageable for two adults with rest stops.
- Booking: Pre-book Colosseum and Vatican timed entries to save waiting time.
- Payments: Many places accept cards, but small cash is handy for markets, cafés, and tips.
Short suggestions for souvenirs
- Food: canned artichokes, cantucci, local olive oil (check customs rules).
- Crafts: hand-painted ceramics, leather goods, religious medals and rosaries, prints of classical art.