Three days in Rome: a short guide to the Eternal City on a budget

With spring fast approaching, now could be the perfect time to book your next holiday. Italy is a great location for you to visit if you’re looking for inspiration with around 4.2 million Brits heading here in 2022. If you do think a short getaway in Italy is the place for you, then you simply must spend your time in the capital.
Rome has over 3,000 years of history packed into it, which makes cramming it all into a short holiday difficult. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible, though! We believe you can have an epic three-day trip to the Eternal City without breaking the bank and that’s why we’ve created an in-depth article about it.
If a three-day trip to Rome sounds like a plan to you, our guide below will be your travel companion, offering advice on where to go, what to do and what to look out for. Continue reading to find out more and start getting excited about a trip to Rome.
What attractions should I see in Rome?
With so much history and places to see, here are some of the places, monuments and buildings you simply must fit into your schedule:
Colosseum, Foro Romano and Palatino
Perhaps the most iconic structure in the city is the Colosseum. This is a spectacle both inside and out, so shouldn’t be missed. Tickets cost around €38 to get in and offer access to Foro Romano and Palatino too.
If you’d prefer to save money then the views on offer from the outside are enough of an experience to savour.
Basilica di San Pietro
Although Vatican City is technically another country, the Basilica di San Pietro is easily accessible from Rome. This late Renaissance church is stunning and doesn’t cost a penny to look at. However, if you want to see the inside, then you’ll need to pay.
Fontana di Trevi
The Trevi Fountain is the perfect opportunity to get an Instagram picture. It was finished in 1762 and still looks in pristine condition. The area lights up beautifully at night but can get busy around peak times.
Taste the local cuisine
When in Rome, you taste the beautiful Italian cuisine. There are incredible restaurants and cafes around almost every corner of the city. Be sure to try the freshly made pasta, incredible pizza al trancio and cool down with the tasty gelato.
If you want the perfect drink to wash your food down with, Italians are famous for their espressos and you won’t find many better than in the capital itself.
What activities should I enjoy in Rome?
Sightseeing is one thing to bear in mind, but experiences should be planned too. Here are some highlights that we believe you should experience in Rome:
Cheer on Roma or Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico
Rome is fortunate enough to be home to two European football giants. Roma and Lazio both play at the Stadio Olimpico, and both sets of fans offer an atmosphere like no other. Get involved in the chants, pick up a shirt from the club shop and enjoy a memorable night watching top-quality football.
Watch the sunset at Gianicolo Terrace
Rome is a romantic city and it doesn’t get more romantic than watching a sunset at Gianicolo Terrace. This is free to enter but does require a bit of a hike to get there. What’s waiting at the top is more than worth it, however, with scenic views across the city and beautiful skies.
Catch a show at the Rome Opera House
Italy is known for its incredible opera industry and Rome Opera House is the best place to experience it. This building has stood since 1880 and has seen all kinds of shows over the years. If you appreciate opera or have an interest in music culture, this is an experience you shouldn’t miss.
What else do I need to know before visiting Rome?
While there’s plenty of planning to do, there are also some things we thought you should know before you touch down in Rome. This includes:
It can be extremely hot
There’ll be plenty of walking around when you’re here and the summer months see temperatures average at around 30°C. Bring suncream, hats and breathable clothes to keep you protected at all times.
Look out for pickpockets
As with every major city, pickpockets may try to target tourists. Make sure you stay vigilant to danger by putting your valuables in tight, front pockets or a bumbag.
Getting around the city
If you want to start your trip off right and make the most of your time in the Eternal City, opt for a private transfer from the airport to the city centre. You can book in advance with a hoppa discount code to keep the costs down.
Once you arrive in the city, you can get around with the metro easily and on a budget. Alternatively, you can choose a more exciting option with electric scooters.



