Welcome to our article “Discovering Rome in 6 Days: A Must-Read Article for Travel Lovers!” If you’re planning a trip to the Eternal City, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll take you through a comprehensive six-day itinerary that will allow you to experience the best Rome offers.
Rome has a rich history, beautiful architecture, delicious food, and friendly people. Planning your trip can be overwhelming, with so much to see and do. But worry not; our itinerary is designed to help you maximize your time in Rome and ensure you get all must-see attractions.
In the following sections, we’ll take you through each day of the itinerary, providing a detailed guide to the top attractions, best places to eat, and hidden gems that Rome has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, we’ve got you covered.
For 6 days, get ready to explore the Colosseum, marvel at the Vatican City, indulge in delicious gelato, and soak up the vibrant culture of Rome. Let’s dive into our itinerary and discover the beauty of this magnificent city!
Day 1: Exploring Ancient Rome
Welcome to day one of our six-day itinerary in Rome! Today we’ll explore the ancient ruins that make Rome such a fascinating city. So please put on your walking shoes, and let’s dive in!
Overview of Ancient Rome
Spend 6 days in Rome and explore the ruins of what was once the capital of the Roman Empire and the center of the ancient world. From the Colosseum to the Roman Forum, visitors can get a glimpse of what life was like in ancient Rome. With so many sites to explore, you won’t be disappointed.
Colosseum and Roman Forum
Our first stop is the iconic Colosseum, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. This ancient amphitheater was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, and it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Rome. From the Colosseum, we’ll go to the Roman Forum, where we’ll see the ruins of ancient government buildings, temples, and public spaces.
Palatine Hill and the Domus Augustana
For our 6 days in Rome, we’ll then head to Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s seven hills and the site of the imperial palace. Here we’ll visit the Domus Augustana, the private residence of the emperors, and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the hilltop.
Capitoline Hill and the Piazza del Campidoglio
After Palatine Hill, we’ll go to Capitoline Hill, another of Rome’s seven hills. Here we’ll visit the Piazza del Campidoglio, designed by Michelangelo, and see the stunning statue of Marcus Aurelius.
Lunch at Roscioli or Antico Forno Roscioli
After 6 days in Rome, we’ll have worked up an appetite so it’s time for lunch! We recommend Roscioli or Antico Forno Roscioli, located near the Campo de Fiori market. These restaurants serve delicious Roman cuisine, and the atmosphere is unbeatable.
Pantheon
After lunch, we’ll visit the Pantheon, one of Rome’s most impressive ancient buildings. This former temple now serves as a church and is home to the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.
Piazza Navona
From the Pantheon, we’ll go to the beautiful Piazza Navona. This stunning square is home to three beautiful fountains, including Bernini’s famous Fountain of the Four Rivers.
Dinner at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29
To end our day, we’ll head to Trattoria Da Enzo al 29, a cozy restaurant known for its delicious pasta dishes and warm atmosphere. This is the perfect spot to relax and reflect on our first day in Rome.
It’s been a great first day of our 6 days in Rome itinerary! We hope you enjoyed exploring the ancient ruins of Rome with us. Now, get ready for what we have in store for day two! Check out the next section to see what’s coming up.
Day 2: Vatican City and Trastevere
Welcome to day two of our six-day itinerary in Rome! Today we’ll explore Vatican City, a city-state located within the city of Rome, and the charming Trastevere neighborhood. So let’s get started!
Overview of Vatican City
Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual center of the Catholic Church, is a must-see during a 6-day visit to Rome. Home to some of the world’s most famous works of art and architecture, such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, Vatican City is a must-see for any traveler.
St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums
Our first stop in Vatican City is St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest and most impressive churches. We’ll admire the artwork and architecture of the interior, including Michelangelo’s Pieta, before making our way to the Vatican Museums. Here we’ll see the famous spiral staircase, Raphael’s Rooms, and the Sistine Chapel.
Lunch at Mercato Centrale Roma
After exploring the Vatican during our 6 days in Rome, we’ll head to Mercato Centrale Roma, a popular food hall with a wide range of Italian specialties. From pizza to pasta, there’s something for everyone here.
Trastevere neighborhood and its hidden gems
After lunch, we’ll go to the charming Trastevere neighborhood, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and lively atmosphere. We’ll explore the hidden gems of this neighborhood, including artisan shops, vintage boutiques, and traditional trattorias.
Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere
One of the highlights of Trastevere is the Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome. Here we’ll see stunning mosaics and artwork that date back to the early Christian era.
Day 3: Discovering Rome’s Art and Culture
Welcome to day three of our 6 days itinerary in Rome! Today we’ll dive into the city’s rich art and culture scene, with visits to some of Rome’s most famous museums and landmarks.
Overview of Rome’s Art and Culture
Rome has a long and storied history, with a wealth of art and culture to explore. From ancient sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces, Rome is a treasure trove of artistic treasures. Today, we’ll visit the Villa Borghese, the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps, among other cultural landmarks.
Villa Borghese and Its Art Collection
We’ll start our day at the Villa Borghese, one of Rome’s most famous museums. The villa is home to an impressive collection of art and sculpture, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. We’ll stroll through the villa’s gardens, admiring the fountains and sculptures along the way.
Lunch at Pizzeria la Montecarlo
On our 6 days in Rome, after we visit the Villa Borghese, we’ll head to Pizzeria la Montecarlo for a delicious lunch. This classic pizzeria is famous for its authentic Roman-style pizzas and friendly atmosphere.
Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps
After lunch, we’ll go to the Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Legend has it that tossing a coin into the fountain will ensure a return trip to Rome, so be sure to make a wish! From there, we’ll head to the nearby Spanish Steps, a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists.
Villa Medici and Its Gardens
We’ll finish our day with a visit to the Villa Medici, a beautiful Renaissance villa on Pincian Hill. The villa is home to a stunning collection of art and sculpture and some of the most beautiful gardens in Rome.
Dinner at La Pergola or La Gatta Mangiona
For dinner, we recommend either La Pergola or La Gatta Mangiona. La Pergola is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant located on the top floor of the Rome Cavalieri hotel, while La Gatta Mangiona is a charming pizzeria in the Monteverde neighborhood.
Day 4: Rome’s Hidden Gems
Welcome to day four of our six-day itinerary in Rome! Today, we’ll explore some of the city’s hidden gems – off-the-beaten-path destinations that are lesser-known but no less stunning.
Overview of Rome’s Hidden Gems
While Rome is known for its famous landmarks and tourist hotspots, it is also home to a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From tucked-away gardens to lesser-known neighborhoods, today’s itinerary is all about uncovering Rome’s hidden treasures.
Aventine Hill and the Orange Garden
Our first stop is the Aventine Hill, one of Rome’s famous seven hills. Here, we’ll find the Orange Garden, a stunning park with panoramic city views. The garden is filled with fragrant orange trees, and the view of the city is truly breathtaking.
Santa Sabina and the Garden of the Dominican Priory
From the Aventine Hill, we’ll go to Santa Sabina, a 5th-century basilica that tourists often overlook. The church is home to stunning ancient mosaics and is situated next to the Garden of the Dominican Priory, a peaceful oasis in the city’s heart.
Lunch at Porto Fluviale
We’ll head to Porto Fluviale, a trendy restaurant in the Ostiense neighborhood, for lunch. The restaurant serves delicious Italian cuisine, and the atmosphere is lively and fun.
Testaccio Neighborhood and Its Street Art
After lunch, we’ll make our way to the Testaccio neighborhood, a lesser-known part of the city home to some of Rome’s best street art. We’ll stroll through the neighborhood, admiring the colorful murals and graffiti.
Protestant Cemetery
Our next stop is the Protestant Cemetery, a beautiful and tranquil final resting place for non-Catholic foreigners in Rome. The cemetery is the final resting place of famous writers such as John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley.
Dinner at Da Enzo al 29 or Flavio al Velavevodetto
For dinner, we recommend either Da Enzo al 29 or Flavio al Velavevodetto. Da Enzo is a charming family-run trattoria in the Trastevere neighborhood, while Flavio al Velavevodetto is a rustic restaurant in the Testaccio neighborhood specializing in traditional Roman cuisine.
Day 5: Shopping and Markets
On the fifth day, it’s time to indulge in Rome’s shopping and market scene. The first stop is the Campo de’ Fiori Market, a bustling square filled with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to flowers and souvenirs. After exploring the market, stroll through the nearby shops where you can find handmade crafts, leather goods, and more.
For lunch, head to Forno Campo de’ Fiori or Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina for some delicious Roman street food. Take advantage of trying the supply, a fried rice ball stuffed with cheese and tomato sauce.
After lunch, go to the Spanish Steps, a popular destination for luxury shopping boutiques like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. If you’re looking for something more unique, head to Via del Governo Vecchio, where you’ll find vintage shops and trendy boutiques.
For dinner, try Piatto Romano for some traditional Roman dishes or Armando al Pantheon for some of the best homemade pasta in the city.
Day 6: Day Trips from Rome
Welcome to Day 6 of our Rome itinerary! You have seen the best of Rome’s landmarks, art, culture, and hidden gems by now. But did you know there are several beautiful towns and attractions around Rome that you can visit on a day trip? Let’s explore some of the options.
First, we have Tivoli and Villa d’Este, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning Renaissance palace features beautiful gardens, fountains, and waterfalls that will take your breath away. It’s a perfect getaway from the bustling city and a must-visit for anyone who appreciates art, architecture, and nature.
Next, we have Ostia Antica, an ancient port town once the gateway to Rome. Here, you can explore the ruins of temples, houses, and baths and get a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Romans. It’s a fascinating place to visit, and you’ll learn a lot about the history and culture of Rome.
For those who love nature, we have Lake Bracciano, a stunning volcanic lake only an hour away from Rome. Picturesque towns, medieval castles, and beautiful hills surround it. You can relax by the lake or explore the nearby towns and their charming streets and alleys.
No matter which day trip you choose, end your last night in Rome with a delicious dinner. You can return to some of our favorite restaurants, like Da Enzo al 29 or La Gatta Mangiona, for a memorable final meal in the Eternal City.
That’s it! You have completed our six-day itinerary for Rome. We hope you enjoyed exploring the city’s landmarks, art, culture, hidden gems, shopping, and day trip options. We wish you safe travels and hope to see you back in Rome soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do I need to visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum?
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to visit both the Colosseum and Roman Forum, but allow more time to explore the sites in depth.
What is the best time to visit the Vatican Museums to avoid crowds?
The best time to visit the Vatican Museums to avoid crowds is early morning, especially on weekdays. Arriving before the museum opens can also be helpful.
Are the gardens of Villa Medici open to the public?
Yes, the gardens of Villa Medici are open to the public and offer a beautiful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. However, access to the gardens may be restricted during private events.
Is Testaccio a safe neighborhood to explore?
Yes, Testaccio is a safe neighborhood to explore. It is a popular area for locals and tourists, with a vibrant food and art scene.
What are some affordable shopping options in Rome?
There are plenty of affordable shopping options in Rome, including street markets like Campo de’ Fiori and vintage shops on Via del Governo Vecchio. You can also find reasonably priced clothing and accessories at popular stores like OVS and Kiko Milano.
What are some other day trip options from Rome?
Some other day trip options from Rome include visiting the picturesque town of Orvieto, the medieval city of Siena, or the stunning Amalfi Coast.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve completed your six-day journey through Rome! Over the past few days, you’ve explored ancient landmarks, indulged in delicious food, and discovered hidden gems off the beaten path.
Rome is a magical destination filled with history, art, and culture around every corner. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, Rome has something to offer everyone.
We hope that our itinerary has given you a taste of all that Rome has to offer and that you’ve enjoyed every moment of your trip. Remember to share your experiences and favorite spots in Rome with your friends and family.
So, until next time, arrivederci Roma!
