A plan for your group trip, in a minute

1. Day 1

   Vatican & Prati

   1. 09:30· MorningSt. Peter's Basilica and domeFree to enter (expect a security line); climbing the dome costs a little and pays off with the best view in Rome.~2 hFreeIndoors
   2. 12:30· LunchMercato TrionfaleA big covered neighbourhood market a few minutes from the Vatican walls — picnic supplies for the whole group.~1 hLow costIndoors
   3. 15:00· AfternoonCastel Sant'AngeloHadrian's tomb turned papal fortress, with ramps, cannons and a rooftop terrace kids love. Cross the angel bridge after.~1.5 hMid-rangeKid-friendly
   4. 19:30· EveningSunset from the Pincio terraceA wide view over Piazza del Popolo to St. Peter's dome. Free, easy to reach, and a good meeting point before dinner.~1 hFree
   ☔ Rainy day? Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel — Huge collections ending at Michelangelo's ceiling. Timed tickets — book well ahead and take the first slot you can.
2. Day 2

   Historic Centre

   1. 09:30· MorningPantheonA 2,000-year-old dome with an open oculus. Quick visit — go early and combine with Piazza Navona next door.~0.5 hLow costIndoors
   2. 12:30· LunchCampo de' Fiori marketMorning market stalls on a lively square; grab pizza bianca and fruit nearby for an easy group lunch. Closed Sundays.~1 hLow cost
   3. 15:00· AfternoonSpanish Steps to Piazza del PopoloWalk from the Spanish Steps along Via del Babuino and artsy Via Margutta to the big oval of Piazza del Popolo.~1.5 hFree
   4. 19:30· EveningEvening walk: Navona, Pantheon and TreviThe centre lit up after dinner, with a gelato on the way. Campo de' Fiori's bars are close if the group wants a drink.~1.5 hFree
   ☔ Rainy day? Galleria Doria Pamphilj — A private palace still lived in, hung floor to ceiling with Caravaggio, Velázquez and more. Good when it rains.
3. Day 3

   Monti & Esquilino

   1. 09:30· MorningSanta Maria MaggioreOne of Rome's major basilicas, with glittering 5th-century mosaics. Free to enter; shoulders and knees covered.~1 hFreeIndoors
   2. 12:30· LunchMercato Centrale at TerminiA food hall inside the main station with pizza, pasta, supplì and more. Everyone picks their own — great for groups.~1 hLow costIndoors
   3. 15:00· AfternoonMonti neighbourhood walkIvy-covered lanes, vintage shops and a small piazza with a fountain where locals sit. Right behind the Forum.~1.5 hFree
   4. 19:30· EveningDinner and wine bars in MontiTrattorias and small wine bars close together — easy to find a table and move on for a drink after.~2.5 hMid-range
   ☔ Rainy day? Capitoline Museums — Classical statues on Michelangelo's square, plus a terrace with one of the best views over the Forum.

Suggestions are a starting point: check opening days and book tickets ahead.

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