Rome: VIP Colosseum & 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.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Want to discover the wonders of Ancient Rome? This 3-hour small-group tour is the best way to explore the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum with ease. With speedy access, a licensed expert guide, and an intimate group size, you’ll enjoy a deeper, more meaningful experience of the Ancient City at an unbeatable value.
Our adventure starts inside the Colosseum, where tales of gladiators, emperors, and architectural brilliance come to life as you take in sweeping views from above the arena floor.
Next, we'll journey up to Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome and site of the city's grandest imperial palaces, before descending into the Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of Roman society.
Designed for comfort and insight, this well-paced tour gives you time to ask questions and soak in each site. If you select Moonlit Colosseum Walking Tour, inside access to the Colosseum is not included. Space is limited, so book now to explore Ancient Rome at the best price.
Available options
Colosseum Arena – Semi-Private
Limited to 6 Guests: Tour ancient Rome & the Colosseum Arena in a group of 6 for a more intimate, tailored experience with your expert guide.
Semi-Private 6 Person Max Tour
Semi-Private Experience : See the Ancient City at a more relaxed pace with a small group of max 6 people and get dedicated attention from your guide.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
VIP Colosseum - Arena Access
Arena access: Get exclusive access to the Colosseum floor and immerse yourself in the world of victorious battles and bloodshed.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
What's included
Seamless access and smooth coordination throughout the experience
Relaxed, well-paced route for a more enjoyable visit
NO ENTRY is included if you select the Colosseum Dusk Walking Tour Tour option
Timed Colosseum ticket (€18 value) with priority entry to Palatine Hill and Roman Forum
Guided small-group tour with captivating stories and expert insights from a licensed guide
Easy and enjoyable small-group tour of Ancient Rome
Headsets provided for clear commentary, even in busy areas
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your expert guide will transport you back in time to the height of the Roman Empire when the Colosseum was constructed. These were times when Rome was ruled by all-powerful emperors (sometimes wise, sometimes wacky), the city was flooded with exotic riches from around the world, and the Colosseum acted as the city’s main stage for showing off the animals and people that Rome had conquered and captured.
*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
Next, you’ll climb the Palatine Hill, where the ancient city was founded. The Palatine Hill is a real archaeological wonder, home to settlements from the Iron Age to the 16th century. Gaze upon such sites as the Hut of Romulus, Rome’s legendary founder, and the Imperial Palace, where the emperors in their family engaged in ruling, politicking, and scheming.
3
Stop 3
The final destination on our skip-the-line tour is the Roman Forum. As the beating heart of ancient Rome, the Roman Forum was once a bustling hub of markets, law courts, temples, and more. It was here that Julius Caesar was cremated, here where two disgraced emperors were murdered in 69 AD, and here where Cicero delivered the speeches that shaped Western culture for centuries.
What's not included
Access to the arena is not included unless option selected (for an additional fee)
Colosseum Dusk Walking Tour Tour does not include entry to the Colosseum or Roman Forum.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
40 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
7 reviews
5★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
Please note we will either start with the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill depending on the time of tickets we can purchase.
Colosseum admission is free on the first Sunday of the month. Tours are discounted on these days.
Meeting point
Meet your guide at Largo Gaetana Agnesi. Look for the yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag or sign. Please arrive 10 minutes early. This tour starts promptly, and late arrivals cannot be refunded.
Important notes
Our guide will be awaiting you at the Arch of Constantine located near the Colosseum holding a yellow flag with the Carpe Diem Rome logo.
Please remember to bring identification cards on the day of the experience. Customers accompanying children are required to demonstrate their parental or guardian status. Furthermore, we kindly request that customers bring identification for the children they are accompanying. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and welfare of all participants, particularly the minors involved.
Please provide the full names of all travelers in your group, including yourself and any co-travelers while booking your experience.
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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