Rome, the capital city of Italy, can be described as the physical embodiment of walking into the past. This breathtakingly beautiful city, with its ancient structures and rich history, is a delight to explore for history aficionados and casual tourists alike. In fact, there’s so much to explore in Rome that it can often get a tad difficult to experience everything if things aren’t planning in advance. Another aspect of the experience that can be a little problematic is fully understanding what you’re witnessing and its significance in the city and world.
One solution to both these problems is opting for a guided Rome tour. A guided tour essentially means that you’ll be accompanied to the places you visit by a local guide who is well-versed in everything there’s to know about the attractions and city you’re visiting. Most guided tours work out well also because they’re planned to the T and help you save time. If you’re considering opting for Rome guided tour, here are some advantages you should consider.
Rome Guided Tour Advantages
A whole new world: There are two aspects of any trip to a place, attraction or city. The first is to physically see and experience something beautiful and legendary. The second is to discover the history and cultural significance of the place being visited. What a guided tour does is provide you with a healthy of balance of both these aspects. You don’t just view the physicality of the attraction but learn about how it came about and what it stands for in the city’s scope of things.
Expert guidance: Another reason why a guided tour of Rome should be your pick is that you would be accompanied by a guide who truly knows everything there’s to know about the city. So not only can you ask your guide any questions you might have about the place you’re visiting, you can also be assured that you’re going to the right places and viewing the attractions the way they’re meant to be viewed.
Facts of the matter: Along with actually viewing the attraction, the one thing that makes a tour special is the little bits of fun facts and figures that come your way courtesy the knowledgeable guide. Not only do these bits of information add some flavor to the whole experience but they also teach you a thing or two about the attraction! Your Rome guided tour will include a guide who’ll keep you informed and entertained throughout the journey.
Added benefits: It’s not all talkative guides and walking around aimlessly with a guided tour. If you pick a Rome guided tour that allows you priority access, you can skip the long queue outside the attraction you’re visiting and waltz right in to through the entrance. If that’s not a great selling point, we don’t know what is! Save your precious time by opting for a priority access skip the line ticket and explore even more of Rome’s many attractions.
Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
A towering oval amphitheatre, which during its glory days could fit almost 80,000 spectators, the Colosseum is a marvelous representation of the architectural prowess of the Romans. Right next to the Colosseum is the Roman Forum. While now the forum is mostly in ruins, it was home to several important government buildings in ancient Rome. Moving forward, we have the Palatine Hill, the centermost of the Seven Hills of Rome. The Palatine Hill overlooks the Roman Forum and stands at a height of 40 metres.
1. Skip The Line Guided Tour of Colosseum with Arena Access, Roman Forum & Palatine
Tour Duration
2.5 Hours
Tour Summary
Immerse yourself in the magnificent era of gladiators by embarking on this tour of the Colosseum that is unlike any other! Stand in the actual floor of the arena where so many fought for their lives, gaining exclusive skip the line access through the aptly named Gladiator's Entrance.
Why you should take this tour?
- Get priority access to arguably the biggest attraction in Rome; the majestic Colosseum.
- Admire the amphitheater from the perspective of both gladiators and emperors by gaining access to the partially reconstructed arena floor and the Emperor's Box.
- Let your professional tour guide regale you with glorious tales from times gone by as he helps you navigate your way through the Colosseum and then the Roman Forum.
- Enjoy your guided tour with a small group of 25 people or less to keep your experience as intimate and leisurely as possible!
Book Now and get a FREE WALKING TOUR IN ROME worth €18
2. Guided Tour with Skip the Line Access to Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine
Tour Duration
3 Hours
Tour Summary
Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum as your professional guide takes you through each of these fascinating archeological sites.
Why you should take this tour?
- Explore the monolith of Roman architecture, the Colosseum with this economical guided tour that also covers the surrounding archeological area.
- Get skip the line access to the Colosseum and save your precious time by not waiting in queue for hours.
- The combo also gives you priority access to Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
- You’ll also get wireless audio headsets with this guided tour to make your experience even more fulfilling.
Get a €18 worth WALKING TOUR OF CENTRAL ROME for FREE with this tour!
3. Guided Walking Tour of Rome + Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Tour Duration
8 Hours
Tour Summary
Explore the Eternal city by foot by discovering the iconic spots like the Trevi Fountain,Spanish Steps and the Pantheon; alongside skip the line access to the crown jewels of Rome - the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Why you should take this tour?
- Experience the best of Rome in just 8 hours, an ideal tour for those who are short of time but want to make the best of the Eternal City.
- Skip the long ticket lines and gain access with your professional English guide regaling you with tales of the glory days of the Colosseum.
- The combo also gives you priority access to Roman Forum and Palatine Hill in the company of your guide, a chance to learn the lesser known history about these spots in Ancient Rome.
- The next part of your day will be spent taking a walk through time as well as space as you saunter through the bustling streets and vibrant piazzas that of Rome - from the Spanish Steps to the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and more.
- Stop on the way for a gelato or an espresso to truly cap off your Roman holiday!
Book Now and get a FREE WALKING TOUR IN ROME worth €18
4. Colosseum Evening Tour with Underground, Arena Floor & Roman Forum
Tour Duration
2.5 Hours
Tour Summary
Explore Rome' most famous attraction, the Colosseum after the crowds have gone home. Venture into places that are generally closed to the public, including the underground level and arena floor. This guided tour also includes a trip to Capitoline Hill for dazzling views of the Roman Forum.
Why you should take this tour?
- Gain exclusive access to the Colosseum Underground & Arena Floor after closing hours.
- Enjoy learning about the Colosseum's history from your expert, English-speaking guide through the course of your tour.
- This is a small group tour with no more than 25 people allowing an intimate experience. You will also be given audio headsets so as to not miss a word!
- Visit the Capitoline Hill and consume terrific sights of Rome under a starlit sky.
5. Express Guided Tour of Colosseum, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Tour Duration
9 Hours
Tour Summary
Experience the best of Rome with this full-day guided combo tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum. With your priority access ticket, skip the long entry lines at these popular sites and make the most of your time in this fascinating city.
Why you should take this tour?
- Experience Rome’s top sites with this incredible all-day tour into the heart of Rome as you visit the Vatican museums, Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum.
- Gain priority access to these attractions and waste no time waiting in its infamously long queues.
- Walk alongside your expert guide and learn about the world’s most important art collections at the Vatican Museums, witness the mesmerizing painted ceiling at the Sistine Chapel and dive into the bloody history of the Colosseum.
Get a €18 worth WALKING TOUR OF CENTRAL ROME for FREE with this tour!
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica
Given that the Vatican is important destination for Christians, you can expect to see some of the most famous churches and chapels in the city. The first would be St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the holiest Christian shrines in the world. The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, in Vatican City. Next up is the Vatican Museums located within the city limits of Vatican City. The Vatican Museums house some of the most famous pieces of art of our times including Roman sculptures and Renaissance art.
1. Guided Tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica
Tour Duration
3 Hours
Tour Summary
Explore the Papal seat of power and see the many treasures that it holds on this guided visit of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica which also gives you dedicated entry so you can skip the long ticket purchase lines!
Why you should take this tour?
- Discover the glorious past of Christianity with a convenient and economical combo that’ll take you to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.
- Walk past the annoying queue waiting for you at all three attractions and save time which you can then use to explore these places in peace.
- A professional guide who has speak English, French, Spanish, Portugese, Italian and German will take you on an interesting journey of learning and enlightenment.
- The tour also comes equipped with individual wireless headsets for all guests.
Get a €18 worth WALKING TOUR OF CENTRAL ROME for FREE with this tour!
2. Entire Vatican City Guided Tour With St Peter's Basilica Dome Climb
Tour Duration
5.5 Hours
Tour Summary
Discover the wonders of Italy’s classical and renaissance periods on this exciting guided tour of the Vatican and its crown jewel - the Basilica of St. Peter. Climb to the top of Michelangelo's famous Cupola and admire the incredible panoramic view of Rome and its surrounding natural splendour.
Why you should take this tour?
- Climb to the terrace of St. Peter’s Basilica and enjoy stunning glimpses of Rome and its surroundings. The terrace of the Basilica is the highest point in Rome.
- Your visit to St. Peter's Basilica will take place early in the morning, which lets you enjoy the tour before the crowds mill in.
- A local tour guide will accompany you on the tour and help you understand the rich history of the monuments you will be visiting.
- This is the only tour that includes all the best attractions of Vatican city: the Museum, Sistine Chapel, Papal tombs, and St Peter's Dome.
Get a €18 worth WALKING TOUR OF CENTRAL ROME for FREE with this tour!
3. Early Access Group Tour to St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
Tour Duration
1.5 - 3.5 Hours
Tour Summary
Enter the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel before the general public at 8:00 AM. In the company of an expert guide, you will be able to gain access to the museums more than an hour before the scheduled opening time and enjoy the treasures of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in solitude and peace.
Why you should take this tour?
- If you hate crowds and wish to have a relatively private experience at some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, this early access combo is your best bet.
- Enter the Vatican Museum at 8:00 am, one hour before to opens for the general public and take a leisurely tour of the legendary museum.
- This guided tour also gives you priority access to St. Peter’s Basilica which means no wasting time waiting in queue for you!
- A trained and knowledgeable guide will be with you all through your trip to all these landmarks of Roman history.
Get a €18 worth WALKING TOUR OF CENTRAL ROME for FREE with this tour!
4. Semi-Private Tour Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica
Tour Duration
3 Hours
Tour Summary
Discover Vatican early in the morning with these skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica.
Why you should take this tour?
- Learn more about the history and culture of the Vatican in a small tour group of no more than 11 people for a informative and intimate experience.
- A certified tour guide will accompany you on the tour and help you understand the rich history of the monuments you will be visiting.
- You may also avail of the welcome lounge service with free wi-fi, which includes a complimentary small bottle of mineral water and an espresso coffee.
Get a €18 worth WALKING TOUR OF CENTRAL ROME for FREE with this tour!
5. Vatican & Papal Tombs: Treasures of the Sistine Chapel
Tour Duration
4 Hours
Tour Summary
Discover the Vatican and all its secrets with this guided tour through the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museum and the Papal tombs (“Vatacombs”).
Why you should take this tour?
- Get skip-the-line priority access to the Vatican museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, saving time spent in the long lines.
- Follow your expert guide and discover renowned classical artworks and Renaissance masterpieces accumulated by Popes through the years.
- Feast your eyes on Michelangelo's "The Last Judgment" and admire the frescos that decorate the interiors of the Sistine Chapel.
- Get direct access to St. Peter's Basilica from Sistine Chapel and see the tombs of former popes buried underneath the church.
Borghese Gallery
The Borghese Museum houses collections of art by legendary painters and sculptors such as Berini, Messina, Raphael, Caravaggio, and many others. These works of art were originally assembled by the wealthy Cardinal Scipione Borghese. There are very few museums in the world that can match the grandeur of the Borghese Gallery and a guided tour here is the best way to acquaint yourself to the lesser known mysteries of the paintings that adorn the walls of the gallery.
1. Villa Borghese Gallery and Gardens Skip The Line Guided Tour
Tour Duration
3 Hours
Tour Summary
Relish the exquisite beauty of Rome’s greatest museum of art and its lush gardens on this visit to the Villa Borghese Gallery. Stroll through the gardens outside as you listen to the guide’s stories of how the Borghese Gallery.
Why you should take this tour?
- Discover the beauty and charm of one of Rome’s greatest museum of art, Villa Borghese Gallery
- This skip the line combo tour helps you avoid the annoying security queue and helps you save time that can be used to better explore the expansive gallery.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the lush green gardens as the trained guide educates you on the history associated with the museum.
- With groups of less than 20 people, this Rome guided tour is perfect for people looking for an intimate experience and want to avoid crowds.
2. Borghese Gallery and Gardens Half Day Tour with Hotel Pickup
Tour Duration
3 Hours
Tour Summary
Enjoy comfortable transport to the Borghese Gallery and discover one of Rome’s most exquisite art collections with exclusive skip-the-line entry. Stroll around the beautiful gardens surrounding Villa Borghese and top off your experience with stunning views from Pincian Hill.
Why you should take this tour?
- Explore the Borghese Gallery in a small group of fifteen or fewer people, with convenient transport.
- Witness works of art that are considered as the pinnacles of human creativity and artistic mastery.
- Find profound meaning in the paintings created by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian and the statues by Bernini and Canova.
- Take a stroll in the Villa Borghese, a lush green garden that is sure to leave you in a state of pure bliss.
- Experience the most spectacular view of Rome from the Pincio Terrace.
3. Borghese Gallery & Colosseum Half Day Guided Tour with Roman Forum
Tour Duration
7 Hours
Tour Summary
With this combo deal, get a chance to savour the classical beauty of sculptures and paintings in the Borghese Gallery; bask in the splendid architecture of the mighty Ancient Roman Empire while at the Colosseum.
Why you should take this tour?
- Gain skip the line access to the Borghese Gallery and witness the most fascinating and elite collection of art, that is only rivalled by the Vatican.
- Walk through the lush gardens of Villa Borghese and escape the chaos of the city.
- Get one of the most picturesque views of Rome from the Pincio Terrace.
- After the gallery, step inside the greatest arena in world history, the Colosseum.
- Walk through the famed Roman Forum, the center for all political and social life in ancient Rome.
- Gaze out at the city from the Palatine Hill, once the most desirable place to live in the entire Roman Empire.
Roman Catacombs
The Roman Catacombs shed light on a period in the history of Christianity, the early ages when Christianity wasn’t a major religion in Rome. During these times, the burial of the dead was not allowed in the ancient city. Hence, people started building tunnels and catacombs underground on the outskirts of the city to bury their dead. This is why the catacombs are adorned with early Christian art, and use frescos and sculptures to depict their beliefs and customs. Once Christianity became a major religion, the burials underground stopped, and the catacombs were lost to the world. Taking a tour of the Roman Catacombs and transport yourself to these bone-chilling years.
1. The Original Rome Capuchin Crypts and Catacombs Tour
Tour Duration
3.5 Hours
Tour Summary
Peel off the many layers of Rome as you go underground to discover the ancient city. This unique tour showcases how Rome developed through the ages and how many historic sites can be found below the foundations of the Eternal City.
Why you should take this tour?
- Explore the thrilling catacombs and crypts that are layered up under Rome and discover the other side of the generally beautiful city.
- Follow the professional guide as he takes you to all of Rome’s underground landmarks and discover the history behind their existence.
- Included in this tour are the Catacomb of Santa Priscilla, the Capuchin Bone Crypt, and Basilica San Clemente.
- Free transport is provided to all the attractions covered under this combo package and you’ll get to travel in an air-conditioned mini bus.
2. Catacombs of Domitilla, Appian Way and Capuchin Crypts Tour
Tour Duration
3 Hours
Tour Summary
Visit the best catacombs in Rome, the Ancient Appian and the Aurelian Walls as you learn about the city and its rich history from your expert guide who will be accompanying you throughout the tour.
Why you should take this tour?
- Enjoy a 3-hour walking tour and learn about the sites from a professional art history guide in a small group of 15 people.
- Stroll down the Ancient Appian Way which dates back to 312 BC.
- Visit the Catacombs of Domitilla and discover elaborate 1,600 year old frescoes depicting Jesus Christ in scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
- Make a stop at the Capuchin's Church and see the skeletal crypts housed within.
- Benefit from hassle-free transport to and from various points of attractions, as an air-conditioned coach will be arranged in the summer.
3. Catacombs of Rome Exclusive After Hours and Bone Chapel (Capuchin Crypts) Tour
Tour Duration
3 Hours
Tour Summary
Get after-hours access to the underground Capuchin Crypt of Rome on the most popular walking tour of the Roman Catacombs after dark.
Why you should take this tour?
- Enjoy exclusive after-hours entrance to Rome Catacombs and the services of an English-speaking expert
- Benefit from hassle-free tickets for Capuchin Crypt & Museum.
- With private, air-conditioned transport provided, you won't have to worry about moving around!
- Enjoy an intimate tour in small groups of a maximum of 15 people.
Guided Neighborhood Tours
Strap on your walking shoes and get lost in the quaint cobbled alleys of Rome. Enhance your experience by signing up for a walking tour with a local guide and enjoy your walk interspersed with anecdotes and stories you've never heard of! Here are the best walking tours in Rome we think you should consider.
1. Best of Rome: Walking Tour with Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain & Pantheon
Tour Duration
2.5 Hours
Tour Summary
Explore the historic heart of Rome with a visit to the city's iconic sites – the Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more – in under three hours.
Why you should take this tour?
- Discover everything that makes Rome special with this guided tour of the city’s historic center and the its iconic sights.
- The city tour covers landmarks, such as Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona and more
- An English-speaking guide will be with you during this walking tour and you expect to learn Rome’s rich past by the time the tour ends .
- The tour includes a stop at one of Rome’s many piazzas where you can try a traditional Italian gelato, coffee, or aperitivo.
2. Trastevere and Rome's Jewish Ghetto Half-Day walking tour
Tour Duration
3 Hours
Tour Summary
Trastevere is a fusion of past and present. Narrow cobblestone streets lined with ivy-covered balconies, colorful bohemian boutiques, and local restaurants will enchant and romance.
Why you should take this tour?
- A truly unique walking tour that takes you on a journey to better acquaint you with the food available in Rome
- This personalized food tour hosts only a group of 8 people at a time which means you won’t have to worry about being part of a packed group where the guide is unable to give individual attention.
- Stroll through Trastevere, one of the most popular localities in Rome and learn more about what goes on in each dish that’s served.
- Samples are available for trying in the places you’ll be visiting as a part of the food tour.
3. Twilight City Stroll in Rome
Tour Duration
2.5 Hours
Tour Summary
Take in the charming sights of central Rome and admire iconic landmarks like the Trevi Fountain and Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers by night. Stroll through town while indulging in some gelato and learn about the fascinating history of these incredible sites!
Why you should take this tour?
- Take in the splendour of the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and the colossal Pantheon after sunset.
- Indulge in a delicious gelato – Italy’s answer to ice cream.
- Bask in the grandeur of the Piazza Navona and the charming beautiful Fountain of Four Rivers.
- With its butterfly design, the beautiful Spanish Steps is a must see and a great example of Roman Baroque Style
Guided Day Trips From Rome
If you're in Rome for over 2 days, why not step outside the city limits to explore a little bit more of the Roman countryside. From Pompeii to Florence or even Venice; a day trip from Rome is highly recommended during your stay. Check out our top picks for the best guided day trips from Rome!
1. Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Volcano Full Day Trip from Rome
Tour Duration
11 Hours
Tour Summary
With comfortable round trip transportation, a professional and friendly English speaking guide by your side, and a delicious Neapolitan pizza lunch as you go exploring, what better way to experience Pompeii?
Why you should take this tour?
- Go on a round trip from Rome to Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius in an air-conditioned bus.
- A trained and professional English-speaking guide will be with you at all times to enlighten you about the places you’re visiting and answer any questions that you might have.
- Once you reach the location, the tour will only have 25 people or less. This ensure that overcrowding doesn’t happen and everyone has a pleasant and valuable experience.
- The combo deal includes lunch where you on gorge on traditional Neapolitan Pizza and a drink of your choosing.
2. Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Full Day Tour from Rome
Tour Duration
13 Hours
Tour Summary
With comfortable round trip transportation, a professional and friendly English speaking guide by your side, and a delicious Neapolitan pizza lunch as you go exploring, what better way to experience Pompeii?
Why you should take this tour?
- Head to Pompeii and Amalfi Coast on a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with a group of 15 people or less.
- Make good use of your professional guide and learn everything there’s to know about the glorious history of Pompeii.
- Don’t waste time standing in queue at the archeological site of Pompeii. These skip the line tickets will take you straight inside.
- Apart from Pompeii, this tour also includes a visit to the mesmerizing Amalfi coast, which displays Mediterranean splendour in all its glory.
3. Full Day Tour of Florence by High-Speed Train
Tour Duration
13 Hours
Tour Summary
Zoom out of the capital on a super fast train to revel in the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence. Walk through its streets and squares as you admire the glorious architecture and artwork present in the famed Uffizi gallery.
Why you should take this tour?
- Visit Florence, an official UNESCO world heritage site, from Rome for one full day in a high speed train.
- Get dedicated entry to the Uffizi gallery and avoid wasting time at long queues with your skip the line tickets.
- Enjoy an appetizing meal at a restaurant with the glorious Piazza Santa Croce as the backdrop.
- Apart from Pompeii, this tour also includes a visit to the mesmerizing Amalfi coast, which displays Mediterranean splendour in all its glory.
- Learn everything there’s to know about Florence with the professional guide who’ll meet you at the train station.
4. Full Day Tour of Venice by High-Speed Train
Tour Duration
13 Hours
Tour Summary
Depart from Rome on a rapid speed train to the romantic city of Venice. Sail down the quaint canals and navigate the 400 bridges that connect the over 118 islands that make up the City of Lovers.
Why you should take this tour?
- Take a high speed train from Rome to the city known for its mesmerizing architecture and streets; Venice!
- You’ll be accompanied on your Venice adventure by a professional guide who knows everything there’s to the city and will provide additional assistance as and when required.
- Get skip the line tickets for the legendary St. Mark’s Basilica and take your sweet time exploring the landmark.
- The full day tour of Venice also comes with a 12 hour pass for the Vaporetto, the city’s water bus!
5. Tivoli Villa Adriana Villa D'Este Half Day Trip from Rome
Tour Duration
5 Hours
Tour Summary
Leave the hustle of Rome and headout for a relaxing day in scenic Tivoli, exploring two off beat and special locations, the Villa of Emperor Hadrian and the Villa D’Este.
Why you should take this tour?
- Set off from Rome for the charming scenic beauty of Tivoli.
- Have a professional tour guide walk you through Hadrian’s Villa to admire the ancient Roman Emperor’s estate.
- Travel to the city center to explore and maybe grab a bite to eat before departing on a walking tour of the next villa.
- Explore the enchanting Villa D’Este, filled with great pieces of art and beautiful gardens, capturing the best of Renaissance work.
