Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Guided Tour
Active
3h
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The ancient glory of Rome is reborn! Skip the Line at three of the most significant surviving remnants of the Eternal City: the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum. Your English-speaking expert historian tour guide will share anecdotes and history throughout the 3-hour tour, rebuilding the impressive ruins with tales of Ancient Rome’s heyday.
Available options
Colosseum Semi-Private
Colosseum Semi-Private Tour: Guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in a group of no more than 10 people. <br/>Colosseum Semi-Private Tour: Colosseum & Ancient Rome Semi-Private Guided Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. Access to the Arena floor is not included
Small Group with Arena Access
Colosseum & Ancient Rome Small Group Guided Tour with Special Arena Access and ticket to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.<br/>Small Group with Arena Floor : Guided tour of the Colosseum, Arena Floor, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in a group of no more than 15 people.
Audioguide Tickets
Tickets without Arena Access: Escorted entry to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, & Palatine Hill.
Access to the Arena Floor of the Colosseum is not included<br/>Multilingual Audioguide: Explore Rome’s birthplace and uncover its history with a multilingual audio guide
Colosseum Group
Colosseum Group Tour: Guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in a group of no more than 24 people. <br/>Colosseum Group Tour: Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. The access to the Colosseum Arena floor is not included.
Semi Private with Arena Access
Colosseum & Ancient Rome Guided Tour with Special Arena Access and ticket to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
<br/>Semi Private with Arena Access: Guided tour of the Colosseum, Arena Floor, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in a group of no more than 10 people.
Colosseum Small Group
Colosseum Small Group Tour: Guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in a group of no more than 15 people. <br/>Colosseum Small Group Tour: Colosseum & Ancient Rome Small Group Guided Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. Access to the Arena floor is not included.
Audioguide Tickets with Arena
Tickets with Arena Access: Escorted entry to the Colosseum, including access to the Gladiator’s Arena Floor level, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill<br/>Multilingual Audioguide: Explore Rome’s birthplace and uncover its history with a multilingual audio guide
Colosseum Express Tour
1.5-hour guided tour of the Colosseum in a group of no more than 24 people.
The access to the Arena floor is not included.<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>Colosseum Express Tour: This option includes an entrance ticket to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, valid for 48 hours, to explore at your own pace
What's included
Access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Audio Guide directly on your mobile phone (If Option Selected)
Access to the Colosseum Arena Floor (if option selected)
Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)
Fully guided visit of the Colosseum [if guided option selected]
Note: Colosseum fees are as above. The remaining cost of the experience covers other services
Professional Expert Licenced Guide [if guided option selected]
Colosseum entrance ticket (valued at €18 per person, or €24 per person if arena access is included)
Headsets to hear your guide clearly
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your journey into antiquity begins with the Colosseum, one of the world’s most iconic sights. Your guide will call on their historical and archaeological expertise to tell you all about the battles, both physical and political, that played out in this incredible amphitheater. You might be surprised to learn that ‘Gladiator’ didn’t get everything right and that feats of ancient engineering even allowed the Romans to re-enact naval battles here.
2
Stop 2
The next stop takes you back to the very beginning. The Palatine Hill is the spot Romulus chose to found the city that would become Rome in 753 BC – a decision that ended in tragedy for his brother Remus. Here, steeped in history, you’ll enjoy spectacular views overlooking your next destination: the Roman Forum.
3
Stop 3
The Forum and the Via Sacra, the Sacred Way, were the heart of Ancient Rome. All of Roman life could be found in this bustling marketplace: commerce and trade, political rallies, military parades, and the sacred ceremonies of the Vestal Virgins.
In just three hours, you’ll experience all that allowed Rome to endure so long – staying immersed in history the entire time, without wasting a moment waiting in line.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
17,527 reviews
5★
12970
4★
2616
3★
842
2★
415
1★
684
Tripadvisor
4.5
6,284 reviews
5★
5057
4★
495
3★
217
2★
145
1★
370
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note: All participant names are required at the time of booking in order to enter the Colosseum.
Every customer on this tour is required to present a valid government issued ID or Passport at the Colosseum, that matches their name on the reservation, or entry will be refused. Name changes are not permitted once the booking is confirmed
Please note that the itinerary for our tours may differ from the advertised order of destinations. We assure you that any changes made to the tour itinerary are carefully planned and intended to enhance your overall experience
On this tour, some of the venues or parts of the venue may be subject to last-minute, unpredictable closures. When this occurs, we are happy to offer customers an extended tour in keeping with the advertised total length of the tour
May experience delays in clearing security checks when entering the venue
Meeting point
Meet your guide at Largo Gaetana Agnesi, on the little square above the metro line B (blue line) stop "Colosseo". Your guide coordinator will be waiting here wearing a blue City Wonders polo shirt or jacket for easy recognition.
Important notes
• Please ensure to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before your departure time. Late comers cannot be accommodated.
• Our City Wonders coordinators will be wearing blue City Wonders polo shirts or jackets to be easily recognizable at the meeting point.
• Due to Colosseum security regulations, a PASSPORT OR VALID ID DOCUMENT IS MANDATORY to join this tour. It is your responsibility to ensure you have a valid document with you on tour. Passengers who fail to provide a valid proof of identity will be denied entry.
• Only very small bags are allowed. There are no cloakrooms at the Colosseum.
• Please note that the itinerary for our tours may differ from the advertised order of destinations. We assure you that any changes made to the tour itinerary are carefully planned and intended to enhance your overall experience.
• This tour involves a fair amount of walking, hills, and stairs.
• Gratuities for your guide that provided excellent service are appreciated!
*Please note: All participant names are required at the time of booking in order to enter the Colosseum. If we do not receive the full customers names, we will cancel the booking. Every customer is required to carry a valid ID that matches the name on the ticket, or an entry will be refused. Name changes are not permitted once the booking is confirmed.
** ONLY if 'Audioguide Tickets with Arena' option is selected **
• In order to download your self-guided app, please search for ""Pop Guide"" on Google store or Apple store. You can also access to your audioguide by copying and pasting the following link into your browser:
https://unlockmy.guide/oUC4CwxHJtQwfknj8
- Download the ""Pop Guide"" app and login using the following credentials:
- Username: QDR-000234
- Password: 69014
PLEASE ENSURE TO DOWNLOAD THE APP BEFORE THE TOUR. Once downloaded, the app can be used offline. Please ensure to bring your headsets to listen to the audioguide.
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
Instant confirmation
