3 Days in Rome Itinerary
The perfect family-friendly Rome itinerary
Three days is the sweet spot for Rome with kids. You will see the highlights without exhausting everyone, and have time for gelato breaks. This itinerary balances must-see ancient sites with kid-friendly activities, all at a pace that works for families.
Day 1: Ancient Rome
Day 1: Colosseum & Roman Forum
Colosseum
Book skip-the-line tickets in advance. The underground tour fascinates older kids.
Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Your Colosseum ticket includes these. The Forum is like walking through a history book.
Lunch near Colosseum
Head to Rione Monti neighbourhood for authentic trattorias away from tourist traps.
Gelato & Rest
Return to hotel for a rest. Roman afternoons are hot!
Trastevere for Dinner
Cross the river to this charming neighbourhood. Cobbled streets, family restaurants, great atmosphere.
Skip-the-Line is Essential
Queues at the Colosseum can exceed 2 hours. Book official skip-the-line tickets at coopculture.it or get a Roma Pass.
Day 2: Vatican & Centro Storico
Day 2: Vatican Museums & City Centre
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Book the earliest slot possible. The museums are vast - focus on highlights with kids.
St Peter's Basilica
Free to enter. The sheer scale impresses everyone. Climb the dome if kids have energy.
Lunch in Borgo
The streets near Vatican have good pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) options.
Piazza Navona & Pantheon
Walk through the historic centre. Throw coins in Trevi Fountain, marvel at the Pantheon.
Dinner near Pantheon
Many family-friendly restaurants in the area. Try cacio e pepe - Rome's famous pasta.
Vatican Dress Code
Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. Bring a light scarf or cardigan even in summer.
Day 3: Villa Borghese & Quirky Rome
Day 3: Parks, Bikes & Hidden Gems
Villa Borghese Gardens
Rent bikes or a family surrey bike. There is a small zoo, a lake with rowboats, and a puppet theatre.
Spanish Steps & Shopping
Walk down to the famous steps and wander Via Condotti for window shopping.
Lunch at Campo de' Fiori
Morning market transforms into restaurant area. Great people-watching.
Explore Trastevere or Testaccio
Wander narrow streets, visit artisan shops, or try the Pyramid of Cestius (yes, Rome has a pyramid!).
Final Gelato & Passeggiata
Join Romans for the evening stroll. End at Trevi Fountain lit up at night.
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Build My Packing ListPractical Tips for Rome with Kids
- Water fountains - Rome has free drinking fountains (nasoni) everywhere. Bring refillable bottles.
- Public transport - Metro is easy but limited. Buses cover more but are confusing. Walking is often best.
- Cobblestones - Leave the pushchair at home for older toddlers. Bring a carrier or sturdy stroller wheels.
- Siesta time - Many small shops close 1-4pm. Plan museum visits or rest time.
- Restaurant timing - Lunch 12:30-2:30pm, dinner from 7:30pm. Earlier slots exist in tourist areas.
Where to Stay
Best areas for families:
- Centro Storico - Walking distance to everything, but can be noisy and pricey
- Trastevere - Charming, local feel, great restaurants, slightly removed from main sites
- Prati - Near Vatican, quieter, more residential, good value apartments
- Monti - Hip neighbourhood near Colosseum, family-friendly trattorias
Money-Saving Tip
Apartments with kitchens save money on breakfasts and snacks. Italian supermarkets have excellent ready-made food.
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