Rome is a living museum. Every corner tells a story. This 3-day guide blends iconic landmarks with local gems, giving you time to see the must-visits while soaking up the pace of Roman life.

Snapshot: Rome 3-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Ancient Rome & Historic Center
• Day 2: Vatican City & Artistic Treasures
• Day 3: Art, Gardens & Hidden Gems

For South African Travellers

Flights

Google Flights is the fastest way to compare flight routes from SA to Rome.

Accommodation

Want something authentic? → Browse Airbnb Experiences for stays hosted by locals.

Need to stretch your budget? → Hotels.com makes it easy to compare hotel options.

Transport

→ Rome2Rio is your best friend for figuring out buses, metros, or walking routes between stops.

Weather & Timing

Check → Windy.com for weather updates and plan outdoor visits around heat or rain.

Connectivity

Pick up a SIM at the airport or check → SimOptions eSIM for Europe to stay connected.

Currency & Cards

Use → XE Currency to check the ZAR-EUR exchange rate.

→ Wise or Revolut cards can help you avoid unnecessary fees.

Visa

South Africans need a Schengen visa for Italy.

Tips

• Rome is a walking city. Bring comfortable shoes.
• Book major attractions in advance.
• Try carbonara, cacio e pepe, and at least one scoop of gelato daily.

Day 1: Ancient Rome & Historic Center

Morning:

Start your trip at the Colosseum. Beat the crowds with a skip-the-line ticket or a guided tour that includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Walk through history where emperors once ruled.

Afternoon:

Head to the Pantheon and step inside one of the best-preserved buildings of Ancient Rome. Then walk to the Trevi Fountain, toss a coin over your left shoulder, and make a wish.

Evening:

Wander through Piazza Navona, filled with fountains, street artists, and cafes. End the day with dinner in the historic center—try a cozy trattoria for your first taste of Roman pasta.

Day 2: Vatican City & Artistic Treasures

Morning:

Arrive early at Vatican City. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and then head into the Vatican Museums. Don’t miss the Sistine Chapel. A guided tour helps make sense of the art and history.

Afternoon:

Walk to Castel Sant'Angelo. Cross the picturesque Ponte Sant'Angelo with its marble angel statues and pause to admire the views of the Tiber.

Evening:

Make your way to Trastevere, one of Rome’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. Enjoy dinner in a lantern-lit piazza and soak up the local nightlife.

Day 3: Art, Gardens & Hidden Gems

Morning:

Visit the Borghese Gallery. It holds masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio. Then explore the Villa Borghese gardens, ideal for a peaceful morning walk or bike ride.

Afternoon:

Head to the Spanish Steps and climb to the top for a great city view. Browse the boutiques on Via Condotti or enjoy a coffee at a nearby cafe.

Evening:

Wrap up your Roman holiday with a farewell dinner. You could join a cooking class or explore a local foodie spot in Testaccio, a neighborhood known for its authentic Roman cuisine.

Packing List

• Walking shoes (no heels on cobbles)
• Modest clothing for churches (cover shoulders)
• Reusable water bottle
• Lightweight layers
• Universal adapter & charger
• Copy of your passport & visa

🧳 The ROME Luggage Set

For our Roman holiday, we packed with the ROME 4-Piece Set from Eco Lifestyle—stylish, secure, and easy to move through airports, cobblestones, and train stations.

What We Loved

• Dual USB Ports to stay charged on the go

• Built-in TSA Lock for stress-free travel

• 360° Spinner Wheels for smooth movement

• Bold colour options: Black, Red, or Gold

What’s Inside

• Cosmetic Bag (33cm)

• Small Suitcase (55cm)

• Medium Suitcase (65cm)

• Large Suitcase (75cm)

It’s the kind of set that works whether you're in Rome for 3 days or 3 weeks. Lightweight, durable, and ready for every photo op.

Shop the ROME Set →

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Rome?

Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal. Avoid peak summer if you dislike heat or crowds.

Is Rome safe for solo travellers?

Yes, but keep an eye on your belongings, especially around tourist sites.

How much should I budget per day?

€70–€130 for food, activities, and accommodation (mid-range).

Can I use public transport easily?

Yes. The metro, trams, and buses are reliable. Or consider a hop-on-hop-off bus to hit all major landmarks.

Do I need to speak Italian?

No, but knowing a few phrases helps. Most locals in tourist areas speak basic English.

3 days in Rome is just enough to fall in love with the city, from ancient ruins to modern espresso bars. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Rome always has more to show you.

Pack light. Plan ahead. And don’t forget to look up.