Small Group Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum 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
Explore Ancient Rome for the best value on our top-rated small-group tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum in just 3 hours. Skip the long queues with speedier entry and enjoy engaging, expert commentary from a licensed guide.
Your adventure begins inside the Colosseum, where your guide brings gladiators, emperors, and Roman ingenuity to life as you take in sweeping views from above the arena floor, perfect for memorable photos.
Next, ascend Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome and home to lavish imperial palaces, before descending into the Roman Forum, once the vibrant heart of public life in ancient times.
With a relaxed pace, small group size, and plenty of opportunities to engage with your guide, this tour offers a rich and comfortable journey through Ancient Rome. If you select the Colosseum Nightfall Walk Tour, inside Colosseum access is not included, giving you more time to explore its exterior beauty.
Available options
Walking Tour (External Visit)
External visit of the Colosseum only – no entry; discover Rome’s ruins, intrigue, and history on a 1.5-hour night walk.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Largo Gaetana Agnesi, L.go Gaetana Agnesi, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour
Ancient Rome Experience: Discover Rome’s Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on a small-group guided tour featuring included free time.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
What's included
Guided small-group tour led by a licensed expert with rich historical insights
Small-group tour through Ancient Rome’s top sites
Colosseum entry ticket included (€18 value) with timed access to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum
Headsets provided for clear audio throughout the tour
Relaxed, well-paced route for a comfortable and engaging experience
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Meet your guide in the shadow of a triumphal arch! Built in the 4th century CE, this monument celebrated the emperor Constantine's defeat (and, more gruesomely, decapitation) 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 and step straight inside the Colosseum with speedier access. Your expert guide will transport you back to the times of the Roman Empire. Expect fascinating facts and masterful storytelling. Discover what it was really like to watch gladiator fights and beast hunts. Learn 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
Follow in the footsteps of the Caesars as you walk the Via Sacra (Sacred Way). This was the route victorious generals and their legions took into the Roman Forum, parading their spoils and captives to the crowds. But before you make your way into the Forum, you'll be climbing the hill where it all began...
4
Stop 4
Your next stop is 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 the Roman Empire. Marvel at the remains of 2,000-year-old temples, triumphal arches, basilicas and much, much more as you tread the same stones as Caesar and Cicero once did.
Once the tour is over, you can stay and explore the Forum and Palatine Hill for as long as you like.
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
4.8
72 reviews
5★
64
4★
4
3★
1
2★
0
1★
3
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, near the Colosseum. Look for the yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag. Arrive 10 minutes early; 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 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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