VIP, Small-Group Colosseum and Ancient City Tour
Active
3h
If you cancel at least 7 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 7 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step back in time on our expertly guided tour of Ancient Rome’s most iconic sites: the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. With shorter queues, the comfort of a small group, and the insights of an expert guide, this experience offers a deep dive into the Eternal City’s fascinating past in just 3 unforgettable hours.
Your adventure begins at the Colosseum, where you'll hear stories of gladiators, emperors, and ancient engineering marvels, plus enjoy sweeping views from above the arena.
Next, head up Palatine Hill, the mythical birthplace of Rome, before strolling through the Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of politics and daily life.
Please note that the Rome Colosseum Walking Tour includes exterior viewing only and does not enter the Colosseum or Roman Forum, making it a perfect choice for an atmospheric walk through Ancient Rome’s historic heart.
Spots are limited. Book now to experience Ancient Rome like never before.
Available options
Walking Tour (External Visit)
External Colosseum visit only – no entry. Join a 1.5-hr night walk to explore Rome’s ruins, history, and evening charm.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Largo Gaetana Agnesi, L.go Gaetana Agnesi, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Arena/Ancient City Small Group
Arena, Roman Forum& Palatine: The small group tour starts with exclusive access to the Arena floor and moves on to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. <br/>Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
VIP Undergound Tour
Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
VIP Colosseum - Arena Access
Small Group Arena Access Tour : Tour the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Forum with a small group, and gain exclusive access to the arena floor!<br/>Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Colosseum Arena - Max 6 People
Semi-Private: A tour of ancient Rome and the Colosseum Arena with only 6 guests and dedicated attention from your expert guide.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Semi-Private Ancient City 6pax
Explore the Ancient City with a small group of 6 people for more dedicated attention from your guide. No arena access.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
VIP Colosseum Tour
Small Group Colosseum Tour: Exclusive, small-group Colosseum tour. This tour also includes visits to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum.
<br/>Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
What's included
Speedier admission to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum (if option selected)
Personalized, small-group experience offering top-rated value and comfort
Colosseum entry ticket and reservation fee included (€18–€24 value)
Admission to the Colosseum Arena Floor (if option selected)
Expert storytelling from a licensed historian guide with headphones provided
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Retrace the steps of the Gladiators, accompanied by exciting stories told by your expert guide. Learn all about the social status of its spectators, discover the gory norms of ancient entertainment, and geek out on the cult games and gladiatorial combat that thrilled its crowds. Your guide's stories will bring the ancient monument to life.
*Please note we will start with the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill, depending on the time of tickets we can purchase.*
2
Stop 2
The Palatine Hill is the most beautiful and important of Rome’s great seven hills and is a must-see on any city tour. Here, with your guide, discover the birthplace of one of the greatest civilisations in history and explore the ancient ruins of the Imperial Palace, surrounded by towering pine trees and spectacular views of the Circus Maximus and the Roman Forum below.
3
Stop 3
To truly understand life in Ancient Rome, you must visit the Forum. In downtown Rome's political, social, and commercial heart, you will walk the Via Sacra and the Via Nova, weaving around ornate arches and towering temples. See the Senate House and the remains of the Rostra - where Senators made the laws and orators decreed them to the masses.
Learn more about the myth-shrouded Romulus or the great Julius Caesar from your expert guide. Although less than half of the Forum is complete today, they're sure to be able to tell you everything you want to know with their extensive knowledge and passion!
What's not included
Walking Tour (External Visit) does not include Colosseum entry; all sights are viewed from outside.
Access to the arena floor (unless selected, available for an additional fee)
Food and Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
1,365 reviews
5★
1168
4★
88
3★
44
2★
18
1★
47
Tripadvisor
4.7
187 reviews
5★
166
4★
6
3★
5
2★
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1★
8
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Walking Tour (External Visit) does not include Colosseum entry; all sights are viewed from outside.
Please provide the full names of all travelers when booking. Tickets must match these names; failure to present a voucher with all travelers’ full names at the ticket office may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Each traveler must present a valid passport or ID matching the name provided at booking for entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Tour order may vary: we will start with either the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill depending on ticket times.
Colosseum admission is free on the first Sunday of each month. Tours are discounted on these days.
We offer two Arena tour packages: VIP Colosseum – Arena Access, which includes the Colosseum, Arena floor, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum; and Arena, Roman Forum & Palatine, which includes the Arena floor, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill but does not include Colosseum entry.
Meeting point
Meet your guide at Largo Gaetana Agnesi, near the Colosseum. Look for the yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag or sign. Please arrive 10 minutes early, as late arrivals cannot be refunded.
Important notes
Meet your guide at the Arch of Constantine near the Colosseum. They’ll be holding a yellow Carpe Diem Rome flag or sign.
Bring a valid ID for all travelers. If you are accompanying children, please show proof of parental or guardian status, and ensure children have identification.
Provide the full names of all travelers, including yourself and any co-travelers, when booking.
Walking Tour (External Visit) option does not include Colosseum entry; all sights are viewed from outside.
About Rome
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.
Top Attractions
Colosseum
The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.
Historical
1-2 hours
€16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)
Vatican City
Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.
Religious
Half day
€17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.
Historical
1-2 hours
€16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)
Pantheon
The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.
Architecture
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cacio e Pepe
A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
Pasta
Vegetarian
Carbonara
A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.
Pasta
Contains pork and eggs
Supplì
Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.
Snack
Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)
Carciofi alla Romana
Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.
Vegetable
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park
Biking along the Tiber River
Rock climbing in the nearby mountains
Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens
Boating on Lake Albano
Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting the Vatican Museums
Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets
Getting there
By air
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
- Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina
By bus
Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Trastevere
Monti
Prancipio
Testaccio
Day trips
Ostia Antica
30 km from Rome • Half day
An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.
Tivoli
30 km from Rome • Full day
A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.
Orvieto
120 km from Rome • Full day
A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
Festivals
Natale di Roma • April 21
Festa de' Noantri • July
Rome Film Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
- Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
- Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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