Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour Group 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
Want to explore Ancient Rome’s most iconic landmarks with zero stress? This expertly guided 3-hour tour offers speedy entry, a licensed local guide, and a small group setting for a richer, more personal experience of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum.
Your journey begins inside the awe-inspiring Colosseum, where stories of gladiators, emperors, and ingenious Roman engineering come to life. Take in panoramic views from above the arena floor as your guide shares fascinating tales of history that unfolded here.
Next, make your way up to Palatine Hill, Rome’s mythical birthplace and home to the empire’s grandest palaces, before heading into the Roman Forum, the bustling heart of ancient Roman life.
With a relaxed pace, well-planned route, and time for questions, this small-group tour blends comfort, insight, and value.
If you select Colosseum Shadows Walking Tour, entry inside the Colosseum is not included. Space is limited, book now to experience Ancient Rome at its best!
Available options
English Small Group Tour
Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Walking Tour (External Visit)
External visit of the Colosseum only – no entry; explore Rome’s ruins, evening charm, and history on a 1.5-hr tour.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Largo Gaetana Agnesi, L.go Gaetana Agnesi, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
What's included
Highly rated experience offering exceptional value
Comfortable and convenient small-group tour of Ancient Rome
Relaxed pace and thoughtfully planned itinerary
Priority access into the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill with timed-entry tickets
Fascinating insights and storytelling from a licensed expert guide
Headsets
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your guide in the shadow of a 4th-century triumphal arch! This monument celebrated the emperor Constantine's defeat of his rival, Maxentius. It is one of ancient Rome's best-preserved triumphal monuments and stands just a stone's throw away from the Colosseum.
2
Stop 2
Save hours standing in line as you step straight inside the Colosseum. Your expert guide will transport you back in time to the heyday of the Roman Empire. Expect fascinating facts and anecdotes with masterful storytelling.
Learn about the Colosseum's gladiator fights, beast hunts and executions, and recreate the scenes as you gaze down at the arena floor. Discover how the Colosseum was built and how state-of-the-art engineering and technology made the games possible. Over the course of an hour, you'll fully explore the first and second levels of the Colosseum—with plenty of stops at the best photo spots!
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Tread the ancient cobbled stones of the Via Sacra (Sacred Way), the road triumphant generals and legionaries took into the Roman Forum while celebrating Rome's victories over her enemies.
4
Stop 4
Your next stop takes the exact spot where Rome was founded. According to legend, it was on this hill that Romulus killed his twin brother Remus before founding the Eternal City in 753 BC. The Palatine Hill gives us our word ‘palace’ because it was here where Rome’s rich and famous resided.
Discover the remains of the luxury imperial palaces as you explore the 'Beverly Hills' of the ancient world. The sprawling ruins, towering pine trees and spectacular views of Circus Maximus and the Roman Forum make this a truly magical experience.
5
Stop 5
The last stop on your tour takes you into the heart of the Ancient City. Discover what life was like for everyday Romans as you explore the social, religious, and political hub of Rome's empire.
Marvel at the remains of 2,000-year-old temples, triumphal arches, sprawling basilicas and much more as you tread the same stones as the likes of Julius Caesar, Cicero and Augustus.
What's not included
Walking Tour (External Visit) does not include Colosseum entry; all sights are viewed from outside.
Arena access is not included in any of the options.
Transportation, food, and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
14 reviews
5★
14
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
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) option does not include Colosseum entry; all sights are viewed from outside.
Please provide the full names of all travelers when booking. Failure to present a voucher with all travelers' full names at the ticket office prior to entry may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Each traveler must present a valid passport or ID document that matches the name provided at the time of booking for successful entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Meeting point
Meet your guide at Largo Gaetana Agnesi, holding a yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag or sign. Arrive 10 minutes early. No refunds for late arrivals.
Important notes
Our guide will be awaiting you at the Arch of Constantine located near the Colosseum 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. This ensures everyone’s safety, especially minors.
Please provide the full names of all travelers in your group, including yourself and any co-travelers while booking your experience.
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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