Rome
3 Days in Christian Rome: The Perfect Itinerary
A day-by-day itinerary for exploring Rome's Christian heritage—from the Vatican and ancient basilicas to the catacombs and early church sites. Includes timing tips and tour recommendations.
Itinerary at a Glance
This 3-day itinerary covers Rome's most important Christian sites, from the grandeur of Vatican City to the haunting beauty of the underground catacombs. It's designed for travelers who want to understand Rome's role in Christian history without rushing through the highlights.
Best for: First-time visitors to Rome, pilgrims, history enthusiasts, anyone interested in early Christianity.
\n Vatican City
The Heart of Catholic Christianity
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Book an early-entry tour to beat the crowds. Allow 3-4 hours for the museums, ending at the Sistine Chapel. Don't miss the Raphael Rooms and Gallery of Maps.
💡 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a scarf for covering shoulders in the Sistine Chapel.
Lunch
Pizzarium Bonci (10-minute walk) for Rome's best pizza al taglio, or the quieter streets of Prati neighborhood.
St. Peter's Basilica
Enter via the Sistine Chapel exit or walk around to the main entrance. Climb the dome for panoramic views (551 steps or elevator + 320 steps). See Michelangelo's Pietà and the papal altar.
💡 Tip: The dome closes at 5pm (4pm in winter). Go early afternoon if climbing is a priority.
Castel Sant'Angelo & Ponte Sant'Angelo
Walk along the Tiber as sunset lights up the angel statues on the bridge. The castle is a former papal fortress with great views from the top.
The Four Major Basilicas
Rome's Papal Basilicas
San Giovanni in Laterano & Scala Santa
Start at the Pope's cathedral—older than St. Peter's and the official seat of the Bishop of Rome. Cross the street to climb the Scala Santa (Holy Stairs) on your knees, as tradition holds.
💡 Tip: The baptistery contains stunning 5th-century mosaics. Free entry to all.
Lunch
Luzzi near the Colosseum for classic Roman pasta, or pack a picnic for Villa Celimontana park.
Santa Maria Maggiore & San Paolo Fuori le Mura
Santa Maria Maggiore has the best-preserved early Christian mosaics in Rome (5th century). Then metro or taxi to San Paolo—the second largest church in Rome with a stunning cloister.
💡 Tip: San Paolo is outside the historic center but worth the trip. The metro (Line B to Basilica San Paolo) is the easiest option.
Trastevere neighborhood
Cross the Tiber to Rome's most charming neighborhood. Visit Santa Maria in Trastevere (one of Rome's oldest churches) and wander the cobblestone streets.
Early Christianity & the Catacombs
Underground Rome
Catacombs of San Callisto or Domitilla
Take the Via Appia Antica to visit ancient Christian burial sites. San Callisto has papal crypts; Domitilla is less crowded with beautiful frescoes. Guided tours only (included in entry).
💡 Tip: Take bus 118 from the Colosseum. Tours run every 30 minutes. Bring a light jacket—it's cool underground.
Lunch
Ristorante Cecilia Metella on the Appian Way, or return to the centro for lunch.
San Clemente & Early Church Sites
The three-level Basilica of San Clemente is Rome's most fascinating church—a 12th-century basilica built over a 4th-century church, built over a 1st-century Mithraic temple. Then walk to Santi Quattro Coronati for peaceful cloisters.
💡 Tip: San Clemente's underground levels require a separate ticket (€10).
Farewell dinner
End your pilgrimage with dinner in the Jewish Ghetto—Rome's oldest neighborhood with excellent Roman-Jewish cuisine (try carciofi alla giudia).