To truly explore Rome on foot is to time-travel through layers of history, beauty, and absurdly good pasta. Over three days, I walked more than 60,000 steps—covering everything from frescoed courtyards and surreal architecture to cat-filled ruins and a few too many hills.
This list pulls together the standout places I visited (and a few I missed, with regret). Expect personality, history, and a few surprises—plus the occasional existential moment brought on by gelato and grandeur. Just wear proper shoes—Rome’s cobblestones don’t mess around.
This guide is based on my personal experience as a solo traveller on a mid-range budget—seeking culture, photo stops, and real atmosphere without the crowd (or the cost). Whether you’re in Rome for a day or a few, here’s what to see, eat, and explore.
If you want a more personal, reflective read, check out my three-part long-form story on Rome: Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3.
What to Know About Rome
Rome isn’t just a city—it’s the city. Founded in 753 BCE (or so the legend goes), it once ruled a vast empire, later became the epicenter of Catholicism, and still carries the swagger of its Renaissance and Baroque heyday. Today, it’s a glorious tangle of ancient ruins, street shrines, traffic chaos, and timeless charm—where 2,000-year-old columns share space with Vespa parking and laundry lines.
History here isn’t tucked behind glass. It’s in the bones of buildings, the rhythm of the streets, and the way golden hour hits a crumbling façade just right.
Rome appeals to artists—not just painters and poets, but graphic designers, architects, photographers, and daydreamers. It’s a city that reminds you that beauty and meaning can live in the tiniest detail: a frescoed ceiling, a hand-painted sign, a cracked mosaic floor. Even if you don’t consider yourself “an art person,” Rome will tug at the part of you that’s quietly moved by light, texture, and time.
It’s also a city of rituals: espresso at the bar, aperitivo before dinner, and la passeggiata—that slow, purposeful evening stroll with no real destination. Whether you’re here for the ruins, the food, or something harder to name, Rome rewards you most when you stop trying to see everything—and simply let it unfold.
Tips for Visiting Rome
What to Pack (and What Not To)
- Shoes matter – Cobblestones + hills = ditch the cute sandals. Go for comfort over fashion and thank yourself later.
- Dress for churches – Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering religious sites. Bring a scarf or light layer just in case.
- Skip the big bag – Many major sights won’t allow large backpacks or luggage. Travel light or be prepared to check your bag.
- Bring a water bottle – Rome’s public fountains (nasoni) offer clean, cold drinking water—free hydration while you roam.
Timing & Seasons
- Best time to visit? – Late autumn to early spring means fewer crowds, softer light, and milder weather. Summer? Hot, crowded, and less charming.
- Winter is wonderfully walkable – I visited in January and didn’t need more than a few layers. Off-season Rome is calm, crisp, and still beautiful.
- Mornings win – Get up early for golden light, quieter streets, and fewer queues.
Getting Around
- Take detours – Some of Rome’s best moments aren’t on the map. Trust your instincts—and your feet.
- Don’t rely on public restrooms – Coins are often needed, and facilities can be hit or miss. Download the Flush app to locate clean toilets near you.
Money & Essentials
- Cash or card? – Most places take cards, but it’s smart to carry a bit of cash—especially small coins for restrooms and small bakeries.
- Keep it secure – Pickpockets are real, especially in tourist hotspots. Use a running waist belt under your clothes, or secure your bag zippers with mini carabiners for peace of mind.
- Keep snacks handy – Whether it’s a street pizza or a mini cannolo, Rome is full of food worth grabbing on the go. Fuel as you explore.
Where to Stay in Rome
I stayed near Termini Station—not the prettiest area, but super convenient for public transport and catching my train to Sicily. Great if you’re solo, on a budget, or arriving late.
Other good areas to consider:
- Monti – Central, creative, and slightly gritty. Close to the Colosseum with lots of indie shops and wine bars.
- Trastevere – Charming and cobbled. Lively at night, picturesque by day. Feels like old Rome.
- Prati – Quiet, clean, and close to the Vatican. Less chaotic, but still well located.
- Centro Storico – Right in the thick of things. Walkable to top sights, though more touristy and pricey.
As a solo traveler, privacy, safety, and cleanliness were my top priorities. I’m not about to do hostels, and budget hotels can be hit or miss—so I went with MonasteryStays.com, which I highly recommend. These are no-frills guesthouses run by nuns, offering simple, clean rooms in peaceful settings. There are plenty around Rome at various affordable price points, often within walking distance of major sights.
I stayed at this one —just a 10-minute walk to the Colosseum and 12 minutes from Termini. Although there are closer ones right in the center of everything, this worked perfectly for me.
I’ve stayed in other guesthouses through Monastery Stays in different parts of Italy too, and I’ve honestly never been disappointed. But hey—I’m chill like that.
See – Unique Finds and Timeless Sights
1. Coppedè District (Quartiere Coppedè) – A surreal, fairytale-like micro-neighborhood filled with eclectic buildings. Think: Art Nouveau meets fantasy film set. Blink and you’ll miss it.
2. Borghese Gallery (Galleria Borghese) – Inside Villa Borghese, this museum delivers Baroque drama and quiet elegance. Don’t miss the mosaic Gladiators underfoot or Bernini’s David mid-sling—his side-eye alone could start a duel.
3. Ancient Pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala (Antica Farmacia di Santa Maria della Scala) – In Trastevere hides a centuries-old pharmacy where monks once mixed remedies for popes. Tours let you peek at ancient flasks, scales, and apothecary secrets.
4. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel (Musei Vaticani e Cappella Sistina) – Yes, it’s vast and yes, it’s crowded—but it’s also packed with jaw-dropping treasures. The Sistine Chapel ceiling may or may not live up to every bit of hype. Take your time through the quieter modern art rooms too.
5. St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) – Regret alert: I didn’t make it here after the Vatican tour—and I really wish I had. It’s top of my list for next time. Don’t do what I did—go see it while you’re there.
6. Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) – Touristy? Yes. Overrated? Maybe. Do you have to see it? Go so you don’t FOMO. Toss your coins and make a wish—you might just meet your own Italian stallion.
7. National Institute for Graphic Arts (Istituto Nazionale per la Grafica) – Steps away from Trevi, this quiet museum showcases centuries of Italian printmaking. A thoughtful stop if you love line, texture, and timeworn artistry.
8. Sciarra Gallery (Galleria Sciarra) – An unexpected architectural delight just off Via del Corso. The fresco-covered courtyard celebrates feminine virtues in a soft glow of color and symmetry.
9. Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola (Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola) – A Baroque church with a jaw-dropping painted ceiling. This dome isn’t even real (seriously—it’s a flat ceiling), but you’d swear it was. Bonus points for the strategically placed mirror that lets you admire it without craning your neck.
10. Aventine Keyhole (Il Buco della Serratura all’Aventino) – Peering through this keyhole aligns the trees of the Knights of Malta garden with St. Peter’s dome. It’s a perfect frame and an even better surprise.
11. Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) – Peaceful and panoramic. The Orange Garden sits high on the Aventine Hill and offers a wide-angle view of Rome’s rooftops and domes.
For Art Nerds, Architecture Lovers, and Cat People (That I Sadly Didn’t Get To)
I ran out of time, but these were high on my list—places I would’ve happily wandered, stared at, or softly squealed over. If you love unexpected beauty, thoughtful design, or cats lounging among ruins, you might want to make time for these.
- Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere (Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere) – One of Rome’s oldest churches, glowing with golden mosaics and layers of devotion. A quiet masterpiece in a lively neighborhood.
- Casina delle Civette (House of the Owls) – A whimsical stained-glass villa inside Villa Torlonia. Like a fairytale turned architectural experiment—slightly odd, totally charming.
- Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana – Also called the “Square Colosseum.” A stark piece of Fascist-era architecture, now home to Fendi. For those who appreciate minimalism with heavy backstory.
- Colonia Felina di Torre Argentina – Ancient ruins taken over by Rome’s semi-official cat colony. I passed by at night but saw no kitties. Sad face.
- Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) – Not technically one of Rome’s original seven hills, but definitely a top spot for sweeping sunset views. A bit out of the way, but that’s part of the charm.
- MACRO (Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome) – Rome’s edgy, industrial-feeling contemporary art space. A good palate cleanser after too much marble.
- MAXXI (National Museum of 21st Century Arts) – Designed by Zaha Hadid. Rome’s boldest take on modern architecture and new-media art.
Not Saying You Have to Go… But Everyone Else Does
I skipped a bunch of Rome’s biggest blockbuster sights. Not out of protest, but because I didn’t feel the pull. Maybe it was the sense that I didn’t need to tick every box to enjoy the city.
That said—these are the places you’re supposed to see before you die. They’re ideal if you really love history, have a case of cultural FOMO, or often think about the Roman Empire (TikTok didn’t lie—some of us really do). Just because I didn’t go doesn’t mean you shouldn’t.
- The Colosseum (Colosseo) – Ancient arena, eternal icon. Still standing, still drawing crowds.
- The Roman Forum (Foro Romano) – Crumbling glory. Once the heart of an empire, now a photo op with depth.
- The Palatine Hill (Palatino) – Where Rome was born—allegedly. Hilltop views and ancient ruins for days.
- The Pantheon – Perfect proportions, open ceiling, and eternal “how did they build this?” vibes.
- Piazza Navona – Baroque grandeur, Bernini fountains, and the eternal espresso-sipping crowd.
- The Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti) – Technically, I did walk down them—I just didn’t linger. Not built for loitering (literally).
- Castel Sant’Angelo – Fortress, tomb, castle, museum. Classic Roman overachieving.
- Piazza Venezia & Altare della Patria – Massive white marble monument some locals call the “wedding cake.” You’ll see it. Hard not to.
If you’ve got the time and curiosity, go. If not? There’s plenty of Rome waiting elsewhere.
Eat – Tried, Tested, and Still Craving
- Pastificio Guerra – A tiny pasta shop near the Spanish Steps dishing out fresh pasta in takeaway containers. The menu changes daily, with always two options: one meat, one vegetarian. At just €4.50, it’s a quick, satisfying meal for any hungry walker. Simple, flavorful, and budget-friendly.
- Pinsere – I didn’t make it here—but I’ve been dreaming of their pizza every day since.
- Trapizzino – Triangle pockets of Roman comfort food stuffed with classics like chicken cacciatore. Street food meets soul food.
- Fatamorgana Gelato – Creative flavors without gimmicks. I had basil, walnut, and honey—it was unexpectedly perfect.
Still on My List (But You Should Go)
- Pompi – The city’s most famous tiramisu.
- Mordi & Vai – Sandwiches filled with Roman classics like tripe and oxtail.
- Forno Campo de’ Fiori – Pizza bianca and focaccia dreams.
- Antico Forno Roscioli – Iconic bakery known for its bread and pizza.
- Alfredo alla Scrofa – Claims to be the birthplace of fettuccine Alfredo. Not traditionally Italian, but it started here—with just butter, Parmigiano, and a Hollywood boost.
I know this list isn’t long—but I was constantly on the move. Most days, I grabbed a quick bite of street food or a cannoli, then kept walking. Rome fed me well, even when I wasn’t sitting down for it.
What to Eat in Rome (Even If You Don’t Sit Down)
If you’re the kind of traveler who snacks while walking or only stops when something smells amazing, this list is for you. No reservations needed—just a willingness to try what Rome does best.
- Cacio e Pepe – Pasta, Pecorino Romano, black pepper. Creamy without cream, and deeply Roman.
- Carbonara – No cream, no shortcuts. Just eggs, guanciale, Pecorino, and pepper. Rich, salty, unforgettable.
- Amatriciana – A tomato-based pasta with guanciale and a hint of chili. Bold and comforting.
- Supplì – Fried rice balls with mozzarella centers. Crispy, gooey, often eaten standing on a curb.
- Pizza al taglio – Roman pizza by the slice, sold by weight. Thin, crunchy, and endlessly snackable.
- Trapizzino – Triangular pizza pockets stuffed with saucy Roman stews. Street food with soul.
- Porchetta – Herb-stuffed roast pork, sliced and stuffed in bread. Fatty in the best way.
- Maritozzo – Sweet bun + whipped cream. Sometimes breakfast, sometimes dessert. Always devoured.
Shop – Uniquely Roman Finds
- Antica Libreria Cascianelli – Stepping into this vintage bookstore is like stepping into the 1800s. I walked out with vintage postcards—still one of my favorite souvenirs. One of my highlight finds—visit if you love all things rare and vintage. (Near Piazza Navona) Map
- Bags and Fruits – Italian leather bags with personality and color. Not your average souvenir shop—these are pieces with a story. Map
- Bordi Fine Arts – A wonderfully old-school, family-run art supply shop—full of charm and stocked to the rafters. It smells like pencils and potential. I bought a giant folio here to protect my art haul—mission: artistic smuggling, accomplished. Artists, go here. Map
- Ceramica Raku Roma – Handcrafted ceramic clocks and pottery with a playful Roman twist. Worth browsing even if you don’t buy (but you probably will). Map
- Via del Corso & Via dei Condotti – Rome’s main shopping arteries. Expect global brands, designer boutiques, and plenty of window-shopping. Great for fashion lovers or anyone hunting for something polished and luxe.
Day Trips (and Beyond)
While you could spend weeks exploring every piazza and palazzo in Rome, some travelers like to branch out (I did!) —especially if it’s their first time in Italy and they want to squeeze in “just one more city.”
If that’s you, here are a few places you can visit by train, how long they take to get to, and roughly how much time you’d want to spend there to feel like you’ve really been.
- Naples – Just over 1 hour. Go for the pizza, stay for the street life. A day is enough to dip in, 2–3 days if you want to explore underground tours, museums, or nearby sights.
- Pompeii – Reachable via Naples (add about 30–40 minutes). A full-day trip is possible from Rome, but easier if you’re overnighting in Naples.
- Florence – About 1.5 hours by high-speed train. You can do it in a day, but 2–3 days lets you properly soak in the Renaissance art, Tuscan views, and gelato.
- Pisa – Around 2.5–3 hours by train. You only need half a day to visit the Leaning Tower and the main square—more if you want to climb and linger.
- Bologna – Around 2.5 hours. A foodie’s dream with portico-covered streets and fewer crowds. One day gives you a good taste, two if you want to slow down.
- Milan – Around 3 hours. Italy’s fashion capital with big city energy. One day covers the Duomo and a little window-shopping; stay longer if you’re into design, art, or aperitivo culture.
- Verona – About 3.5–4 hours. Known for Romeo and Juliet (and that famous balcony), but also offers Roman ruins and medieval charm. Ideal as a 1–2 night detour.
- Venice – Roughly 4 hours by high-speed train. A day trip is technically possible, but honestly? It’s not worth rushing. Venice is meant to be wandered, not sprinted through. Spend at least 2 days to let it work its strange, beautiful magic—misty canals, lost corners, and all.
- Cinque Terre – 4.5 to 5 hours with transfers. Beautiful coastal towns and cliffside hikes. Not recommended for a day trip—2 nights minimum is best.
Or you could do what I did:
After 3 days in Rome, I spent two weeks in Sicily exploring cities, coastlines, and cat-covered islands. Read about that here.
The year after, I headed even further south to the Puglia region—for whitewashed towns, burrata, and a slower rhythm of life. Those guides will be coming soon!
Final Thoughts
Three days in Rome was just the beginning. Whether you’re here for the ruins, the food, the art—or just to wander and wonder—it’s a city that stays with you long after you’ve left. I didn’t see everything, and I didn’t need to. The beauty of Rome is that you can always come back—and when you do, it’ll still have more to show you.