A Romantic Itinerary Through the Eternal City
Rome is not just a city—it’s a living museum, a stage where history, art, and passion intertwine. For couples, the Eternal City offers a heady mix of ancient ruins, candlelit trattorias, piazzas alive with music, and sunsets that bathe domes and fountains in golden light. If Paris is the city of love, Rome is its eternal rival—where romance is carved into marble and whispered through cobblestone alleys.
This guide is your ultimate 3-day romantic itinerary, designed to balance iconic landmarks with intimate experiences, so you and your partner can savor Rome’s magic together.
Day 1: Ancient Grandeur & Evening Strolls
Morning: The Colosseum & Roman Forum
- Why start here? Nothing says “Eternal City” like the Colosseum. Imagine standing hand-in-hand where gladiators once fought, marveling at the scale of Rome’s most iconic monument.
- Pro tip: Book a skip-the-line ticket or a guided tour that includes the underground chambers for a more immersive experience.
- Next stop: Wander through the Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of ancient Rome. Stroll past temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches, imagining the lives of lovers who walked here 2,000 years ago.
Midday: Lunch in Monti
- Neighborhood vibe: Monti, just a short walk from the Colosseum, is a bohemian district with cobbled streets, vintage shops, and cozy trattorias.
- Lunch idea: Try La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, a family-run spot known for authentic Roman pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe.
Afternoon: Piazza Venezia and Capitoline Hill
- Piazza Venezia: Admire the imposing Altare della Patria (Victor Emmanuel II Monument).
- Capitoline Hill: Climb Michelangelo’s elegant staircase to the piazza, then enjoy sweeping views of the Forum below.
Evening: Trastevere Romance
- Why here? Trastevere is Rome’s most romantic neighborhood—narrow lanes, ivy-covered buildings, and lively piazzas filled with music.
- Dinner idea: Book a table at Da Enzo al 29, a beloved trattoria serving traditional Roman dishes.
- Romantic walk: End the night at Piazza Santa Maria, where street performers and candlelit cafés create a magical atmosphere.
Day 2: Art, Fountains and Sunset Views
Morning: Vatican City
- St. Peter’s Basilica: Climb to the dome for breathtaking views over Rome.
- Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Marvel at Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes—one of the most awe-inspiring artistic achievements in the world.
- Pro tip: Book early morning entry to avoid crowds.
Midday: Castel Sant’Angelo & Tiber Stroll
- Castel Sant’Angelo: Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, this fortress offers panoramic views from its terrace.
- Romantic walk: Cross the Ponte Sant’Angelo, lined with Bernini’s angel statues, and stroll along the Tiber River.
Afternoon: Piazza Navona & Pantheon
- Piazza Navona: A baroque masterpiece with fountains, street artists, and lively cafés. Perfect for gelato and people-watching.
- Pantheon: Step inside this architectural wonder, where a beam of sunlight streams through the oculus. It’s one of the most moving spaces in Rome.
Evening: Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps
- Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin together—legend says one coin ensures your return to Rome, two coins bring love, and three coins promise marriage.
- Spanish Steps: Climb at twilight, then sit together watching the city lights flicker on.
Day 3: Gardens, Hidden Gems & Farewell Sunset
Morning: Villa Borghese Gardens
- Why here? Rome’s most romantic park, filled with sculptures, fountains, and shaded paths.
- Couple’s activity: Rent a rowboat on the small lake or cycle together through the gardens.
- Optional: Visit the Borghese Gallery (book tickets in advance) to see masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio.
Midday: Campo de’ Fiori & Jewish Ghetto
- Campo de’ Fiori: A lively market square—perfect for picking up picnic supplies.
- Jewish Ghetto: One of Rome’s most atmospheric districts, with excellent restaurants serving Roman-Jewish specialties like fried artichokes (carciofi alla giudia).
Afternoon: Appian Way Adventure
- Why go? The Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) is one of Rome’s oldest roads, lined with ancient ruins and aqueducts.
- Romantic touch: Rent bikes and ride together along this peaceful, historic route.
Evening: Gianicolo Hill Sunset
- Final farewell: Head to Gianicolo Hill for one of the best sunset views in Rome. Watch the domes and rooftops glow as the city bids you goodbye.
Culinary Romance: Where to Eat in Rome
- Roscioli (Campo de’ Fiori): A mix of deli, wine bar, and restaurant—perfect for pasta and fine wine.
- Aroma (near Colosseum): Michelin-starred dining with Colosseum views.
- Trattoria Da Teo (Trastevere): Cozy, authentic, and beloved by locals.
- Pizzarium Bonci (Vatican area): For gourmet pizza al taglio—ideal for a casual lunch.
- Gelateria del Teatro: One of the best gelato spots in Rome.
Where to Stay: Hotels for Every Couple
Luxury & Romance
- Hotel de Russie: Iconic, with a secret garden and spa.
- Palazzo Manfredi: Rooms with direct Colosseum views.
- J.K. Place Roma: Chic, intimate, and stylish.
Boutique Charm
- Portrait Roma: Elegant suites with rooftop terraces.
- Nerva Boutique Hotel: Steps from the Forum, with cozy design.
- Hotel Campo de’ Fiori: Romantic rooftop views over the city.
Budget-Friendly & Cozy
- Albergo del Senato: Overlooks the Pantheon.
- Hotel Santa Maria (Trastevere): Quiet courtyard, charming atmosphere.
- Hotel Navona: Affordable, central, and full of character.
Practical Tips for Couples in Rome
- Timing: Visit major sites early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
- Transport: Rome is walkable, but taxis or scooters can save time.
- Dress code: Churches require modest attire (covered shoulders and knees).
- Romantic extras: Pack a bottle of wine and enjoy a picnic at sunset in Villa Borghese or along the Tiber.