Private Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Guided Tour

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(214 reviews)

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.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the Colosseum and Forum in style on a private walking tour with an art expert, and skip the queues for the Colosseum and Palatine Hill. Accompanied by your own private guide who specializes in art history, you'll enjoy personalized attention on your special private tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum without wasting time waiting in line.

Available options

Colosseum Arena 1 Person only

Private Tour of the Colosseum with Arena Access, including visits to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill for 1 person.

Colosseum up to 3 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for up to 3 guests. Colosseum Arena Floor access is not included

Colosseum up to 4 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for up to 4 guests. Colosseum Arena Floor access is not included

Colosseum up to 2 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for up to 2 guests. Colosseum Arena Floor access is not included

Colosseum Arena up to 6 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum with Arena Access, including visits to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill for up to 6 guests.

Colosseum 1 Person only

Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for 1 person. Access to the Colosseum Arena Floor not included

Colosseum Arena up to 5 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum with Arena Access, including visits to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill for up to 5 guests.

Colosseum Arena up to 3 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum with Arena Access, including visits to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill for up to 3 guests.

Colosseum Arena up to 2 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum with Arena Access, including visits to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill for up to 2 guests.

Colosseum up to 6 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for up to 6 guests. Colosseum Arena Floor access is not included

Colosseum Arena up to 4 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum with Arena Access, including visits to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill for up to 4 guests.

Colosseum up to 5 guests

Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for up to 5 guests. Colosseum Arena Floor access is not included

What's included

Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)

Reserved Access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Colosseum entrance ticket (valued at €18 per person)

Please note: Colosseum fees as above. The remaining cost of the experience covers other services.

Guided private walking tour with expert guide for your group only

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your walking tour starts at Colle Oppio, from where you can admire a view of the Roman Forum and Colosseum, Rome’s most iconic ancient landmark. Then head down the hill and enter the Colosseum. Once inside, walk around the arena with your art history guide, listening to stories about the gory gladiator battles and other brutal events that once took place here.

Stop 2

Then exit the Colosseum and walk over to Palatine Hill, stopping at the Arch of Constantine on the way. Walk up the hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome, for a view of the Roman Forum and Nero’s Circus Maximus, where chariot races used to take place.

Stop 3

Finally, stroll along Via Sacra, aka ‘Sacred Way,’ the main road through the Roman Forum that connected the Colosseum to Capitoline Hill and was once used for Roman triumph ceremonies. Your tour ends here, from where you can continue exploring on your own.

Please note: As this is a private tour, your specialized art history guide can tailor the commentary to suit your interests. When booking, please list any special interests you have, such as architecture, art or culture, so your guide can prepare.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

170 reviews

5★

145

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

44 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.
• We may experience delays in getting through mandatory security checks when entering these venues
• This tour involves a fair amount of walking, hills, and stairs.
• Gratuities for your guide/driver 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.

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