Photo by CALIN STAN on Unsplash
Why This Itinerary?
Rome is a city where ancient history blends with intimate cafés, cobblestone streets, and sunset viewpoints—perfect for couples. This 5-day itinerary balances major attractions with relaxed wandering, food experiences, and scenic viewpoints.
Expect a mix of history, charming neighborhoods, romantic dinners, and plenty of time to enjoy Rome at your own pace.
Day 1: Ancient Rome & Monti
Kick off your Roman holiday with iconic landmarks and a charming neighborhood dinner.
9:00 AM Colosseum (Priority Entry)
Start early to beat the crowds. Explore the arena, underground corridors (optional), and learn about gladiator history.
Duration: 2–3 hours | Cost: €18–25 per person (approx.)
12:00 PM Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Walk through ruins of ancient temples, political buildings, and panoramic Palatine Hill viewpoints.
Duration: 2 hours | Cost: Included with Colosseum combo ticket
3:00 PM Coffee in Monti
Relax in one of Rome’s trendiest neighborhoods. Try an espresso or gelato in Piazza della Madonna dei Monti.
Duration: 1 hour | Cost: €3–€8
7:30 PM Romantic Dinner in Monti
Enjoy fresh pasta at a cozy trattoria. Monti has great mid-range restaurants with candlelit ambiance.
Duration: 2 hours | Budget: €25–€40 per person
Day 2: Vatican & Castel Sant’Angelo Sunset
9:00 AM Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Book a timed-entry ticket. Marvel at Renaissance masterpieces and Michelangelo’s iconic Sistine Chapel ceiling.
Duration: 3 hours | Cost: €17–€25 per person
1:00 PM St. Peter’s Basilica
A must-see. Climb the dome for one of the best panoramic views in Rome.
Duration: 1.5 hours | Cost: Church free; dome climb €6–€10
4:00 PM Walk to Castel Sant’Angelo
Stroll along Via della Conciliazione and explore the castle’s terraces.
Duration: 1–2 hours | Cost: €12–€15 per person
7:00 PM Sunset by the Tiber
Enjoy a romantic riverside walk with the Castel Sant’Angelo glowing at golden hour.
Duration: 1 hour | Cost: Free
Day 3: Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Trastevere
9:00 AM Trevi Fountain
Visit early to avoid crowds. Don’t forget your coin toss for luck.
Duration: 30 minutes | Cost: Free
10:00 AM Pantheon
One of Rome’s best-preserved ancient buildings. The oculus is mesmerizing.
Duration: 45 minutes | Cost: €5 per person
12:00 PM Lunch near Piazza Navona
Try a classic Roman pasta dish—carbonara, amatriciana, or cacio e pepe.
Duration: 1 hour | Budget: €15–€25 per person
2:30 PM Explore Trastevere
Wander through narrow ivy-draped streets and vibrant piazzas.
Duration: 2 hours | Cost: Free
7:30 PM Dinner in Trastevere
One of Rome’s best neighborhoods for food. Enjoy wine and a slow Italian meal.
Duration: 2 hours | Budget: €25–€40 per person
Day 4: Villa Borghese & Local Neighbourhoods
9:30 AM Borghese Gallery
Home to Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings. Tickets sell out—book early.
Duration: 2 hours | Cost: €13–€20 per person
12:00 PM Picnic in Villa Borghese Gardens
Relax under the shade of pine trees or rent a small boat on the lake.
Duration: 1–2 hours | Cost: Picnic €10–€15 per person (approx.)
3:00 PM Spanish Steps & Via Condotti
People-watch by the steps or browse designer shops.
Duration: 1.5 hours | Cost: Free (shopping optional)
7:30 PM Rooftop Aperitivo
Enjoy a romantic Italian aperitivo on a rooftop terrace overlooking the city.
Duration: 1–2 hours | Cost: €12–€20 per drink
Day 5: Hidden Rome & Markets
9:00 AM Campo de’ Fiori Market
Browse fresh produce, spices, and local snacks.
Duration: 1 hour | Cost: Free (food purchases extra)
11:00 AM Jewish Ghetto & Teatro Marcello
Explore one of Rome’s most atmospheric districts and its ancient theatre.
Duration: 1.5 hours | Cost: Free
2:00 PM Aventine Hill & Orange Garden
Visit the famous keyhole viewpoint and enjoy a peaceful garden stroll.
Duration: 1 hour | Cost: Free
7:00 PM Final Dinner near the Pantheon
Toast your final night in Rome with a beautiful outdoor dinner.
Duration: 2 hours | Budget: €25–€40 per person
💡 Essential Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: April–June & September–October.
- Getting around: Rome is walkable; occasional metro rides help on longer days.
- Book ahead: Vatican, Borghese Gallery, and Colosseum tickets sell out quickly.
- Approx budget: €70–€120 per person per day (excluding accommodation).
- Dining tip: Avoid restaurants directly on major squares for better value.
🏨 Where to Stay
For couples, the neighborhoods of Trastevere, Monti, and Prati offer charm, great dining, and easy access to major sites. Boutique hotels and guesthouses often provide the best mix of comfort and value.
Browse hotels in Rome → (Affiliate link - we may earn a small commission)
✈️ Getting to Rome
Rome is served by two airports: Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA). Fiumicino offers the most international connections.
From FCO, take the Leonardo Express (€14–€15) to Termini, or local FL1 train for cheaper options. Ciampino is served by shuttle buses.