Your 3-Day Rome Itinerary: From Colosseum to Catacombs of Callixtus

Step back in time at the iconic Colosseum, exploring its ancient gladiatorial arena. Pre-booking tickets is highly recommended to avoid long queues. Focus on the main levels and imagine the spectacles that once took place here.

"I hadn’t originally planned to go inside the Colosseum, but I’m so glad I did — it ended up being one of the most interesting and memorable experiences of my trip. I explored on my own and listened to a podcast on Spotify called “Dark Side of Ancient Rome: Colosseum,” which was both fascinating and humorous at times. It really brought the history to life and made walking around even more engaging. I purchased a disabled access ticket as I wear hearing aids. I did experience a bit of difficulty at the entrance, as staff weren’t initially clear on my disability. I brought proof of my hearing records and my Freedom Pass, although there was some confusion because it doesn’t specify the nature of my disability (which, to my understanding, isn’t required to be stated). After a bit of back and forth, everything was resolved, and I was able to enter. I spent around an hour inside and thoroughly enjoyed it. There are shaded areas as well as sections in direct sunlight, so it’s worth keeping that in mind if you’re visiting during the summer. Although it was crowded and movement can be slightly staggered at times, it didn’t take away from the experience. The gift shops inside were extremely busy with long queues, so I chose not to visit them. Overall, despite the minor entry issue and the crowds, it was a fantastic experience and absolutely worth going inside."— Kiri Hawkins

Wander through the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, then ascend Palatine Hill for panoramic views of the Forum and Circus Maximus. Explore the archaeological sites and imagine life in the ancient city.

"I visited the Roman Forum and it was really worth it. The ticket costs around 18 euro, and I strongly recommend buying it in advance. There are too many lines and they can be very long, especially during busy hours. Booking online will save you a lot of time and energy. The place itself deserves to be seen. Walking through the Roman Forum feels like stepping back in time. You can see the ruins of ancient temples, arches, and old government buildings. It gives you a real sense of how life was in ancient Rome. It was sunny when I went, so make sure you take water and maybe an umbrella or a hat. There is not much shade and you will walk a lot. Comfortable shoes are also a must. It’s a great place for photos. Everywhere you look, there is something beautiful and historic. Overall, it’s a good visit and one of the main highlights in Rome. Don’t skip it."— George Samuel

Discover the unique multi-layered history of the Basilica of San Clemente. Descend through centuries of Roman history, from the 12th-century basilica to the 4th-century church below, and further down to a 1st-century Roman house and a Mithraic temple.

"Currently undergoing repairs so there is lots of scaffolding inside. The underground tour is what I really wanted to see. I bought a ticket online and they were flexible about my start time since I got there early. Bathroom in the courtyard!! As you go in there is a beautiful renaissance chapel on the left with scenes on St. Catherine."— Kate S

Immerse yourself in centuries of art and history at the Vatican Museums, culminating in Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Pre-booking tickets is highly recommended to manage crowds.

"Doesn't matter whether you are religious or not, you'll be blown away by this iconic place. Very easy to get around, it was January when we visited and there were virtually no queues. The art and architecture go hand in hand. The scale is unbelievable. Beautiful in every way. The skill of the creators is impressive. Well worth visiting."— Fiona Hare

Explore the magnificent Saint Peter's Basilica, an awe-inspiring symbol of the Catholic faith, home to masterpieces like Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's baldacchino.

"I’m sure this is one of the most beautiful things you can see in terms of architecture in the world. What a beautiful, rich, historical and well preserved place! Independently of your religion it worths the visit, but be respectful because this is an important place for christian people. Here you can see the pieta from Michelangelo and his amazing duomo. Along with this there is a lot of Bernini work, which is also spectacular."— Isadora Carvalho Abreu

Stroll through the grandeur of Saint Peter's Square, designed by Bernini, and admire the Vatican obelisk and the colonnades.

"St Peter Square in the Vatican is a majestic place. Attending the Papal mass is surreal. I am so blessed to attend the mass and get to see Pope Leo in person. It is a dream come true. You have to go there early as there is a long line and I recommend you don't leave the area if you want to see the Pope in Pope Mobile in person as they may close the entrance when the mass is starting. The people in the mass are all nice too. I highly recommend attending the Papal audience and visiting Vatican."— Emmanuel Dato

Visit the remarkably preserved Pantheon, an ancient Roman temple now a church, marveling at its iconic oculus and immense dome.

"It pays to buy tickets to skip the line. Try for first entrance of the day so that you can enjoy the amazing space for a little while without shoulder-to-shoulder people. We also purchased the audio guide which was extremely well-done. Everyone in our group (50-60s, 30, and tweens) thought it was one of the best audio guides we'd ever listened to. Don't rush: there is SO much history here. Bonus is watching the light change throughout your visit. Highly recommend!"— Roswitha Firth

Engage in a hands-on Roman cooking workshop near Campo de' Fiori, learning to prepare classic pasta dishes like Carbonara or Cacio e Pepe, and a delicious Tiramisu. This experience includes dinner.

"Pasta and tiramisu making class is a must!! Giulio was fantastic. He was funny and knowledgeable. I felt comfortable making mistaking and learned every step of the way. The class is very beginner friendly and you leave with so many memories as well as confidence in your skills. I encourage everyone to take it while in Rome!"— Rebecca Hill

Conclude your day with a romantic drink at The Court, a sophisticated rooftop bar offering stunning panoramic views of the illuminated Colosseum and city skyline, near your Monti hotel.

"Outstanding! Second time here and this time I chose to follow the guided menu and chose from the Roman Heritage drinks menu option. I was solo and had an incredible seat and faultless service. Loved the aperitivo too, especially the crisps and olives 🤌🏻 And of course, the drinks were fantastic. This is a proper cocktail experience, and worth the cost. Grazie team!"— Méabh Redmond

Embark on a private guided tour exploring the artistic and architectural masterpieces of Rome's center, focusing on Renaissance and Baroque gems, including insights into famous squares, fountains, and hidden artistic churches.

"Tour with Jacopo was amazing!! We did the Families of Rome tour and it was a very unique way to see the city. Jacopo had such deep knowledge about the powerful legacies that built this city. And I loved seeing Rome from this perspective. Would definitely recommend this tour!"— Rona

Visit this stunning Baroque church renowned for its illusionistic ceiling frescoes by Andrea Pozzo, creating the appearance of a dome that isn't actually there.

"This church is one of the most breathtaking examples of Baroque art in Rome. While the facade is beautiful, the interior is truly mind-blowing. The ceiling fresco by Andrea Pozzo is a masterpiece of trompe-l'œil, creating an incredible 3D illusion that makes the ceiling look like it’s opening up to heaven. ​Pro Tip: Look for the golden disc on the floor in the center of the nave—that is the perfect spot to appreciate the perspective. Also, don't miss the "fake dome." If you stand on the second marker further down, the flat painting looks like a real, massive dome! There is also a mirror available to take perfect photos of the ceiling for a small fee (which goes to charity/lighting). As a Project Manager, I am amazed by the mathematical precision required to create such an optical illusion in the 17th century."— Vardan Arakelian

Revisit two of Rome's most iconic and romantic spots. Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return to Rome, then admire the grandeur of the Spanish Steps connecting Piazza di Spagna to Trinit D dei Monti.

"One of the absolute highlights of my trip! It was very busy when I visited in the afternoon, but I was expecting that. Even so, I decided to pay the €2 to access the lower section of the fountain — and I’m so glad I did. The queue moved quickly, and once I saw the fountain up close, I was completely in awe. At that point, the €2 felt like nothing at all. I also went back another morning at 6 am, and it was a completely different experience. There were only a handful of people around, the sunrise was beautiful, and the atmosphere felt calm and magical. With no staff present, people were simply moving the fences to walk down closer to the fountain. I would highly recommend visiting — it’s easily one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen."— Kiri Hawkins

Enjoy a relaxing stroll or boat ride through the expansive and beautiful Villa Borghese Gardens, Rome's third-largest public park, offering panoramic views and serene green spaces.

"Such an amazing park to walk around and relax. The small lake and the Temple of Aesculapius are gorgeous and it's very calm, not many tourists walking around. Well worth a visit when in Rome."— Sidónio Sousa