Prepare for an extraordinary family trip through the Eternal City with our ultimate itinerary for 3 days in Rome with your family. From the magnificent Colosseum to the charming streets of Trastevere, this roadmap ensures an unforgettable adventure filled with fun and amazing experiences.
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DAY ONE
Borghese Gardens
Start your day at one of Rome’s charming green spaces. Whether biking or hiking, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the peaceful environment. Families can also enjoy rowing on the pond, while kids can play in the playgrounds.
With so much to do, it’s an ideal spot for wholesome family fun.
Borghese Gallery
Located within Borghese Gardens is one of Rome’s top cultural spots. Established in 1633 to exhibit the esteemed Borghese family’s art collection, the Gallery has grown into a renowned museum.
Featuring masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio, it offers a captivating exploration of Italy’s artistic legacy. Advance ticket purchase is recommended for guaranteed access and skip the crowds.
Pincio Terrace
Once your museum tour wraps up, explore westward through the park to find one of Rome’s most stunning viewpoints. Situated atop a hill, this terrace provides a sweeping vista of the city’s skyline. Follow the stairs down to uncover one of Rome’s best piazzas…
Piazza del Popolo
In this vibrant square, an ancient Roman gate stands at the north, with Basilica di Santa Maria in Montesanto and Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli at the south.
The grandeur of this square reflects Rome’s rich history and architectural brilliance. Heading south, three main streets await.
For the scenic route, take Via del Corso to Via dei Condotti, offering the best view and approach towards…
Spanish Steps
A short walk from Piazza del Popolo brings you to Rome’s famous Spanish Steps, a globally cherished icon. While sitting on the steps is not allowed, you can still walk the steps and admire the area which includes Piazza di Spagna and the Barcaccia Fountain.
Climbing to the summit rewards you with a stunning view of the lively square below.
Trevi Fountain
Wander through the winding streets and narrow alleys to reach Rome’s cherished Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece located in Piazza di Trevi.
This iconic gem warrants two visits – once in the early morning and again at night. Among Rome’s many highlights, this remains one of my favorites.
Pantheon
Built nearly 1600 years ago, this extraordinary engineering marvel still stands today, welcoming visitors at minimal cost. Marvel at not only the Pantheon’s breathtaking architecture but also the beautiful piazza and fountain.
When exploring, don’t miss the chance to snap a selfie directly under its iconic Oculus. Also, take a moment to appreciate the massive size of the grand entrance doors.
Piazza Navona
In this spacious square, you’ll discover not one but three remarkable fountains, each displaying impeccable design and intricate details. The atmosphere in this vast, oval-shaped piazza is truly remarkable, complemented by the majestic architecture that surrounds it.
DAY TWO
Colosseum
As one of Rome’s most iconic attractions, the Colosseum attracts crowds, making it essential to book tickets in advance to avoid long waits. This is especially beneficial for families with kids!
Once inside, prepare for an unforgettable journey through the revered halls and corridors of this ancient amphitheater. With much of its structure still standing, exploring the Colosseum’s grounds offers a truly awe-inspiring experience.
For those seeking deeper insights into this historic site, various guided tours are available.
You can secure tickets for these tours here.
Several tours are tailored for families with children, and you can purchase tickets for them here.
Palatine Hill/Roman Forum
Palatine Hill and the nearby Roman Forum are conveniently located near the Colosseum, allowing for seamless exploration of these historic sites together. It’s recommended to choose a combined ticket or one with an audio guide for Palatine Hill, as this area may lack sufficient signage or explanations.
If you want a more detailed experience and learn more about the rich history of these ancient landmarks then a guided tour is the way to go.
You can purchase that ticket here.
Trastevere
This district stands out as one of Rome’s most charming areas. It’s often viewed as the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll, with family-friendly attractions like the playground at Piazza di San Cosimato. This is also one of the best areas to stay in Rome.
As the afternoon fades into the evening, the neighborhood maintains its lively atmosphere while remaining welcoming to families. Take a break at a charming café or gelateria, relax, and take in the vibrant surroundings.
Don’t forget to visit Basilica di Santa Maria and its busy square which is a central hub of activity in the area. For those craving adventure, consider hiking up Janiculum Hill for an unparalleled panoramic view of Rome.
And be sure not to overlook Villa Doria Pamphili, a meticulously manicured park offering both stunning vistas and serene tranquility.
DAY THREE
Campo de Fiori
Celebrated for its diverse array of local delicacies, colorful flowers, and eclectic goods, Campo de Fiori offers the perfect setting to savor the city’s essence.
It’s advisable to arrive early, as the market usually closes in the early afternoon, so the morning hours are the best time to visit. Whether in search of culinary delights or distinctive souvenirs, this vibrant market is worth a stop.
Jewish Quarter
Following your visit to Campo de Fiori, take time to explore the Jewish Quarter, an area full of profound history and cultural importance. Like the rest of Rome, wandering its narrow streets provides a captivating experience.
Treat yourself to the authentic flavors of Jewish-Italian cuisine as you soak in the lively atmosphere of this dynamic neighborhood.
Vatican City
Take a walk along Via Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, then cross the Vittorio Emanuele Bridge spanning the Tiber River, and into the independent city-state of Vatican City.
Once inside its boundaries, you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of the world’s most celebrated artworks. Even before entering any buildings, the magnificence of St. Peter’s Square captivates with its artistic charm.
The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica are the primary attractions in this area.
You can purchase your tickets to the Vatican Museums here.
While entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, for a more comprehensive experience, consider booking a guided tour for insightful commentary and a deeper understanding of these architectural wonders.
A variety of tour options are available, each offering unique perspectives and additional information to enrich your exploration of these remarkable structures.
Castel Sant’Angelo
As you exit Vatican City to Via della Conciliazione, you’ll encounter Castel Sant’Angelo. This fortress holds centuries of Roman history, offering a mesmerizing journey through the ages.
Initially constructed by Emperor Hadrian as a grand mausoleum, the castle has undergone numerous changes over time. Its walls echo tales of mystery and resilience, beckoning exploration into its rich past.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the rooftop terrace, where you’ll be treated to a stunning panorama of Vatican City and Rome. Though perhaps not as widely recognized as other landmarks, this was a highlight for our family.
Our children loved exploring the numerous halls, passages, and chambers. It felt like going on a thrilling adventure through history!
You can purchase your tickets to Castel Sant’Angelo here.
ENJOY YOUR THREE DAYS IN ROME
Going on an unforgettable family vacation in Rome will be an awesome experience for everyone. Between the iconic landmarks and wonderful food, it’s a trip that you’ll thoroughly enjoy. While preparing for your trip, be sure to check out our guide for finding the best areas to stay in Rome as well as our essential guide for what to pack for your trip. Safe travels!
