How to Spend 4 Days in Rome

The fantastic city of Rome is ideal for a short break, with most cramming as much as they can into a few nights. But if you have a bit more time it is well worth staying for four nights as there is plenty to see and do, from visiting the most famous sites, tasting some amazing food and taking in the culture.

Here are some of our top things to see and do in Rome. (Just to add before we start and before I forget, the best way to travel around Rome is with the Metro, you can pick up a weekly travel card for around 24 Euros.)

Visit the Colosseum

With its origins of gladiator battles that took place in the time of the Roman Empire and also considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Colosseum is one of the most famous places to visit in Rome. You can pre-book tours for the Colosseum with tour guides who will go through the extensive history however when I went, I decided to arrive and book my tickets on the day and explore the ruins myself followed by a long walk through the Roman Forum situated on low ground between the Palatine and Capitoline hills. One word of advice, wear a good pair of trainers as there is a lot of walking involved.

Altar of the Fatherland

Once you have explored the Colosseum and the Forum, I would suggest talking a little stole towards the Altar of the Fatherland. The Altar is not only captivating in the day but also at night where you can see the eternal flames. During the day you can go up the steps and explore the site. Close by are several bars and coffee shops for you to take a seat and take in the views. Also, just to mention a little further down you can find some shops if you want to do a bit of retail therapy. My favourite shop in Italy is Alcott!

Vatican City

The next place to spend your day would be visiting Vatican City. Vatican City, a city-state surrounded by Rome is the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. It's home to the Pope and a trove of iconic art and architecture. When visiting the Vatican, you will need to be wearing clothes that do not leave your shoulder / arms or lower legs bare. So, no shorts, short skirts, sleeveless tops etc. Once you have entered you can walk around and tour the grounds, taking in all the culture it has to offer before making your way to the Sistine Chapel. Once in the chapel you are not allowed to talk or take pictures so ensure you are very careful and respectful to the rules otherwise the guides will escort you from the premises.

The Pantheon

I would suggest doing a pitstop at The Pantheon (depending on where you are staying). The Pantheon still stands as a testament to the genius and skill of the Roman people. Its importance lies in the fact that it is the best-preserved monument from ancient Rome. I decided to visit the monument at night and it is eerily creepy so to speak. After this I would recommend a nice meal and then back to the hotel for some wine and shut eye.

Trevi Fountain

Another place to ensure you visit while in Rome is Trevi Fountain, standing at the junction of three roads, the Trevi Fountain marks the final point of Aqua Virgo, one of the earliest aqueducts in Rome. While here it is said you should make a wish and toss a coin but be aware it does get extremely busy so as they say the early bird catches the worm. Don’t worry if you do have to wait, the fountain is surrounded by a number of vendors so you can grab a coffee, pastry, ice cream or even a beer.

Spanish Steps

After this I would suggest spending your afternoon having a wonder around the streets and you will be sure to come across some hidden ruins. Once the sunsets one of the places that is a must see is the Spanish Steps, illuminated at night they say if you visit Rome after you get married, you and your significant other should come and take a seat here but please be aware, you are not allowed to eat or drink on the steps as there are strict rules and security to ensure this does not happen.

And day four, relax! Drink some wine, eat some food and be merry.

So, there you have it, four days in Rome. I have been to Rome twice and both times I saw new things whilst exploring. With so much to see you won’t be disappointed.

With so much to do and a hell of a lot of walking make sure you come prepared with a decent set of shoes. Remember stay safe and follow the Covid guidelines when travelling. Keep an eye on the FCO website for https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy

Safe Travels!