Best of Rome in a Day Private Guided Tour Including Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and Colosseum

Rome , Italy

Best of Rome in a Day Private Guided Tour Including Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and Colosseum

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(60 reviews)

6h - 7h

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy this 6-hour private tour to see the top sights and ancient wonders of Rome in one day.

This 6-hours private sightseeing tour will bring you to the most fascinating sites in Rome, and the Vatican.
The most popular areas of the city with the most history and charm will be on the itinerary, including St Peter's Square and Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, Roman forum, the Pantheon and much more.

You will be met by your guide at the Colosseum metro station exit

Available options

Best of Rome Tour

What's included

Private tour

Professional art historian guide

Vatican entrance ticket

Colosseum entrance ticket

Pantheon entrance ticket

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After meeting your guide, your tour begins at the Colosseum, where you'll head to the interior of the arena for an exploration of Ancient Rome's largest amphitheater.

Stop 2

When your visit is over, follow your guide just outside for a look at the Arch of Constantine and the Roman Forum, the empire's central square and hub of political, religious, and social activity. See the 1st-century Arch of Titus, the House of the Vestal Virgins, the Temple of Saturn, the Senate House, and the white marble Arch of Septimius Severus.

Stop 3 Pass by

Then via the Sacred Way, arrive at Capitoline Hill and the Vittoriano, one of the most beautiful monuments of modern Italy.

Stop 4

Next, continue your tour to the Trevi Fountain, seen in several films, including Fellini’s La Dolce Vita. To follow legend, throw a coin in the fountain and make a wish that someday you’ll return to Rome.

Stop 5

Then it’s time for a rest and lunch (own expense); there is a variety of restaurants you can choose from, whether you're in the mood for pizza, a sandwich, or a nicer 3-course meal.

After eating, head to the Government District, where you’ll see the Parliament Building, the Palace of the Council of Ministers, and the Column of Marcus Aurelius. The historic Temple of Hadrian is nearby; Emperor Antoninus Pius built the grand edifice in honor of his predecessor. T

Stop 6

Then follow a narrow avenue to see the Pantheon, where Raphael, the Renaissance architect and painter, lies entombed.

Stop 7

Continue on to Piazza Navona by way of the Ancient Baths of Nero, and admire the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini.

Stop 8

Your final destination is the Vatican, which sits across the Tiber River.

Stop 9

During your visit of the Vatican Museums ,you’ll enjoy a tour of Michelangelo’s most famous works, including the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, plus Raphael’s frescoes and the apartments of the pope.

Stop 10

The tour proceed to St. Peter’s Basilica where you will explore the numerous side chapels with their hidden crypts. You will see Michelangelo’s Pietà and your guide will explain why this is the only work that he signed. You will gain an appreciation of the mastery that went into the creation of Bernini’s altarpiece and learn how Michelangelo triumphed over his contemporaries for the honour to paint St. Peter’s magnificent dome.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Transportation to and from the sites and during the tour

Underground Level

Catacombs

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

45 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and select museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

Please provide the full names of all travelers when booking. Failure to present a voucher with all travelers' full names at the ticket office to entry may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

READ CAREFULLY: Because of the growing popularity of the current pope and his intense activity in organising mass events in the Vatican some areas might get closed last minute without previous notice. This has already happened this year and can happen again during you Vatican tour. In case of such events our tour guide will provide you with a valuable alternative focusing the tour inside the Vatican museums.

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: Due to the Jubilee the Basilica might not be accessible as part of the tour. Unfortunately, we know that very last minute. In any case, you can go there after the tour, queuing.

Meeting point

at the newsagent in front of the Colosseum Metro Station Exit (there is only one
exit, just in front of the monument).
Your guide will be holding a sign with your name on it.

Important notes

• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

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