4 Days in Rome : The perfect itinerary for first-time visitors
The Eternal City should be on everybody’s bucket list. It is one of those destinations that can be revisited many times and rediscovered as well. But if you are visiting Rome for the first time I know what you will be thinking, that it can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. That is why I prepared this guide for you. So that you can spend 4 amazing days in Rome with the help of this itinerary.
When I first visited, I was excited but unsure how to fit everything in without burning out. That’s why I put together this 4 days in Rome itinerary: it’s designed to balance iconic must-sees with relaxed local moments.
What to Expect When Visiting Rome
Rome is chaotic, beautiful, and completely unforgettable. Expect buzzing scooters, ancient ruins around every corner, endless gelato options, and the kind of history that makes your jaw drop.
It’s a city where time seems layered—one moment you’re standing in a 2,000-year-old forum, the next you’re sipping an Aperol Spritz in a trendy piazza. Comfortable shoes are a must, lines can be long, and yes—it gets crowded. But if you lean into the energy, Rome will absolutely sweep you off your feet.
4 Days in Rome Itinerary: What to See, Eat & Do
I arrived at Fiumicino Airport at 6 o’clock local time. The airport is decent, but the best part is that is well connected to the centre of Rome. You have the option of taking a bus for around 8€ or the train for 14€. I chose the last one because you arrive at Rome Termini (central station) in half an hour. Book your ticket from the Airport ahead.
Started the day early with an Italian breakfast, with a cornetto (the croissant in Italian) and some orange juice. Believe me, the experience of ordering at a local bar in the morning is a must.
When you think about Rome, the first thing that pops into your head is Fontana di Trevi. It must be an iconic monument for the city. Even if I got there before 10 am, it was already getting a lot of tourists. There are some people who try to get here at sunrise to take their photos, since the place is almost empty, and if you think that it’s something you could do then it is recommended, but believe me, if you are patient you can get your turn to take your photos at any point.
TRAVEL TIP Don’t forget to throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain. According to tradition that means that you will return to Rome.
The streets of Rome are like an outdoor museum. The architecture, the colorful buildings make walking in Rome a pleasure. Even if it started to get hotter outside, most of the alleyways are in the shade so you don’t get to experience the same heat.
Stop for a Gelato on your way! It’s never too early for that in Italy!
Don’t forget to check Campo de’Fiori. An outdoors market that offers authentic Italian products. Loved how colorful everything was- the oranges, the lemons, the tomatoes. I got a little bit thirsty, so I had to try a freshly squeezed orange juice. I think it was the best I had.
This area is not as touristy as the one near the Trevi Fountain, but worth a visit. Keep in mind that the market it is open until 2 pm.
If you follow the course of the road you will reach The Pantheon, one of the best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome. Originally a church, it had a unique feature that makes this place worth visiting. The rotunda with a massive domed ceiling that was the largest of its kind when it was built. The price for entry is 5 €.
Around the Pantheon there are a lot of cute cafés. I found “Mr. 100 Tiramisu” that looked amazing, but it didn’t have any seating available, so I went to the other location on my list “Ginger”. They have a great variety of breakfast and brunch options. So I went with the pancakes. Delicious!!
This lively square is a must-see. At its center stands Bernini’s stunning Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers)—a true masterpiece. Take your time strolling around the piazza, soaking in the architecture, charming trattorias, and cozy wine bars tucked along the edges.
And of course, don’t leave without snapping a few photos—this spot is pure Roman magic.
DAY 2 A Perfect Day in Rome: Spanish Steps to Villa Borghese
I had a late start in the second morning. Let’s just say… the snooze button won. But after a nice breakfast at the hotel I was ready to start exploring. The first tourist attraction of the day was Piazza di Spagna. It is known for the architecture of the Spanish Steps, recognizable due to the fact that many movies have used them as their backdrop. A while ago you were allowed to sit on them, but not anymore.
Travel Tip: As tempting as it may be to plop down on the Spanish Steps and take a break, don’t do it! Sitting on them is actually banned (yes, seriously) and you could get fined. So, unless you want to pay for the privilege of lounging on ancient stone, keep walking and grab a gelato instead!
At the top of the stairs you will find the church of the Trinità del Monte. I recommend you to go up anyway because the view from there is spectacular.
No trip to Rome is complete without trying a Tiramisu.
Just a short stroll from the Spanish Steps, you’ll discover Pompi Tiramisù, a must-visit spot for dessert lovers.
Whether you go for the classic tiramisù or try one of their innovative variations, it’s the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth. I tried the Salted caramel version and it was just mouthwatering!
From Piazza di Spagna follow Via del Corso, the main shopping street of Rome, and you will reach Piazza del Popolo, the largest square in Rome. Walk around to see the twin churches and the fountains.
For a better view, go to Terrazza del Pincio. To arrive there follow the narrow street behind the fountain as it will take you up the hill. Do not walk fast, because I know that it looks easy and accessible, and instead I was a little bit sweaty when I reached the top. The view from up there though made it soul- satisfying.
As I went back on this street I stopped for a little shopping. You can find some well known Italian brands, and if you are lucky, at sales.
After finishing up a fun shopping spree on Via del Corso, I made my way to Villa Borghese, one of the largest and most scenic parks in Rome. This vast green space is home to a variety of attractions, from its famous museums to peaceful gardens. While the museums are definitely worth a visit, I was more drawn to the gardens.
Be sure to check out the Temple of Diana, the serene Fonte Gaia, and my favourite, the Tempio di Esculapio. It’s the perfect place to relax after a busy day of shopping. Keep in mind that you can easily spend 4-5 hours here.
I know that this one is not a classic place to go to, but in every city I travel to I have a tradition of visiting its Hard Rock Cafe. So that is what I did after a wonderful second day of exploring Rome during my 4 days in Rome.
DAY 3 Exploring Ancient Rome – Colosseum, Roman Forum
I was excited for a new day, although my feet were hurting a bit from the day before.
After a quick breakfast, I was excited and ready to dive into my Rome adventure. I hopped on the metro for the first time, and I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to navigate. The metro made it so easy to get to the Colosseum station, which is conveniently located right near the iconic landmark.
The moment you catch sight of the Colosseum, it’s impossible not to be awestruck. This ancient construction, symbolizing Rome’s rich cultural history, is truly a sight to behold. It’s hard to believe how it has withstood centuries of change and still stands strong.
And here’s a fun fact: the Colosseum is now officially one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. If you’re planning to visit, I highly recommend buying your tickets in advance. The lines can get incredibly long, and trust me, you don’t want to waste precious time waiting.
Photo tip: there is a small street that goes up the hill behind the metro station. You will have a better view from there!
When you purchase the ticket for the Colosseum you will also have included the Palatine Hill. Although it is not that well known and not that spectacular, it is still impressive to look around at the birthplace of Rome.
Walking around the Colosseum you will encounter many historical artefacts and constructions like the Arch of Constantine or of Nero. Look around and then head towards the Roman Forum. Admire buildings that resisted the test of time, and still found here from the founding of Rome. These places don’t have any additional entry fees to pay and they are less crowded than the area around the Colosseum, but definitely worth visiting.
The next place on your Itinerary in Rome is quite unique. When you walk past this building it is impossible not to notice that it has such a different design. The buildings in Rome usually have an orange or yellow hue, but this one is enormous and painted in white and covered with white marble. This is L’Altare della Patria.
You have to climb the stairs to get inside, and it wasn’t quite pleasing to do that in the middle of the summer, but the view from the top made it worth it. In the first rooms you can walk around for free and then you have to buy a ticket to access the main exhibitions. You can take the elevator to go on the terrace for 10€.
For the rest of the day I strolled around the streets looking to admire the architecture. I also enjoyed a really good slice of pizza. You can find many locations as you walk, so you don’t necessarily have to sit in a restaurant. Soma attractions that you could consider for the evening are Musei Capitolini, Bocca della verità or Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore.
DAY 4 Local Rome Experience
To wrap up the last day of my 4 days in Rome itinerary, I headed to Trastevere, Rome’s effortlessly cool neighborhood—think narrow cobblestone lanes, ivy-covered buildings, and the kind of cafés that make you want to sit down and write poetry (or at least check your emails with a spritz in hand). I crossed Ponte Sisto and found myself in what might be the prettiest corner of the city.
I wandered the streets for a couple of hours, stopping at Otaleg! (yes, that’s gelato spelled backward) for a scoop of pure happiness. I meant to take a cute photo with it, but by the time I figured out the perfect angle, the poor thing had started melting down my hand—so you’ll just have to trust me when I say it was delicious. After that sweet ending, I made my way back to the hotel to pack (reluctantly), since I only had half a day in Rome.
If you have more time in Rome, definitely consider exploring neighborhoods like Monti, with its vintage shops and cool cafés; or the elegant Prati district near the Vatican.
Arrived by train to the airport, 3 hours before departure, because I wasn’t sure if I will need more time since I didn’t purchase the ticket before. But that was for sure the best way to spend 4 days in Rome. Arrivederci Roma!
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