Private Guided Tour in the Colosseum and Ancient Rome

Rome , Italy

Private Guided Tour in the Colosseum and Ancient Rome

Active

(27 reviews)

2h - 3h

If you cancel at least 10 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 10 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the Colosseum through the eyes of a gladiator by entering the ancient arena and walking the streets of the Roman Forum in the footsteps of senators and emperors. When you have a licensed and friendly guide all to yourself, you will be sure to make the most of your visit to Ancient Rome. You'll be led around the Colosseum to all of the best vantage points for views, photos and living historical explanations of the arena. You will also enter into the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the oldest parts of Rome where the Republic and Empire were established. Walk on original ancient roads, as well as within temple complexes and emperors' palaces. When you have a small group you feel like you've expanded your family and friends to make this an even better experience. Plus you get to ask as many questions of your professional guide as you wish without being overlooked or lost in a massive group.

Available options

Private Guided Tour in the Colosseum and Ancient Rome

What's included

Colosseum entrance ticket (valued at €18 per person)

Your own exclusive expert certified tour guide

Entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Headsets for groups when appropriate

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Experience the Colosseum before walking the streets of the Roman Forum in the footsteps of senators and emperors. After meeting your expert friendly guide, you will begin to hear all about the history of the monument with the advantage of having the guide all to yourself. Once inside you will learn all about the amazing lives of the gladiators and the many different (and deadly) weapons they used, all while soaking in the incredible architecture from the best viewpoint in the arena. We will then walk around the colossal structure where ancient Romans used to cheer on their heroes, gamble and marvel at the exotic animals from all parts of the enormous Roman Empire.

Stop 2

After walking around inside the building, seeing it from its many different and beautiful angles, the tour will begin a short walk toward the Roman Forum. The forum was the heart and soul of the ancient city with many of its most important temples and political buildings, and though most are in ruins it is still one of the most visually impressive archaeological parks in the world. In this incredible walk through history the tour will fully explore the most important and spectacular sites. Entering near the Senate House the group continues past the law courts, triumphal arches and beautiful Temples, including the famed temple of Julius Caesar where his ashes were laid to rest.

Stop 3

We will continue the tour by climbing up the gentle slopes of the Palatine Hill where rich Romans lived in their luxury villas, while being waited on hand and foot. Under the umbrella pines, which scatter the landscape, we will explore the palace of the emperors, home of the most powerful people in the ancient world. You will learn more about the lives of these great (and occasionally quite mad) men, visiting the stately dining rooms and serene gardens, getting an idea of the unbelievable luxury that they would have lived in. The last stop on our tour is Domitian’s hippodrome, attached to the imperial palace, where the group can bask in the surrounding view and feel the thousands of years of history and change that this unique city has gone through.

What's not included

Food and Drink

Gratuities

Transportation to or from the meeting point

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

24 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Wheelchair accessible

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.

Meeting point

Your private guide will meet you at Trajan's Column. They will stand along the fence on the NW side of the column with an orange Roman Vacations sign.

Important notes

You will show this ticket upon arrival to the meeting point. Once you meet your professional tour guide, will have the official entry tickets for every person within the group and you will all enter together.

Please check-in at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Tours will depart promptly at the scheduled time, and no refunds will be given for late arrivals or missed tours.

**All participants must bring IDs that match the names provided during the checkout process. Please make sure that the names you submit match you ID.**

Tours will proceed in all weather conditions, unless the site is closed by authorities for safety reasons. It is highly recommended to bring bottled water, sunscreen, hat, and umbrella.

There will be a security check upon entering the Colosseum. Any weapons, sharp objects, glass or aerosol containers will be confiscated, so please do not bring these items to the tour.

All tours operate within the current COVID-19 regulations set by the Italian Government.

**Depending on the start time, the tour route may begin at the Forum/Palatine Hill.**

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