Ancient Rome Tour with an Archaeologist - Small Group

Rome , Italy

Ancient Rome Tour with an Archaeologist - Small Group

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About this experience

A small-group tour only to experience and discover the monuments of Rome, the Ancient and present time city. A journey to see how a hut village became a monumental city we still see a lot today. How it became an amazing center of art, architecture and power for over 2000 years and all this is still reflected today in the City.
We discuss a timeline of ancient Rome's history and walk to see the Roman Forum, the 5 Imperial Fora, the Colosseum (from the outside), the Campidoglio Square, Trajan's Column, the Theater of Marcellus, the Portico of Octavia, and we finish in the area of the Ghetto.
Along the way we see and discuss many other buildings, sculptures, life and politics in ancient Rome, and the relationship with the city today.

Available options

Ancient Rome Tour with an Archaeologist - Small Group

What's included

Access to free-entrance archaeological areas. Not inside the Colosseum.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After the Colosseum, we will visit the complex of the Imperial Forums. All the 5 Forums: Forum of Caesar, Forum of Augustus, Forum Peace, Forum of Nerva and the Forum of Trajan.
Along the way we will see in detail the ruins, understand how they were built and why, and talk about characters of the Roman history and monuments, such basilicas, porticos, Trajan's Market, the Column of Trajan and museums aroud.
After that we will follow to the Capitoline Hill.

The offer here does not include going inside the monument or tickets for that.

Stop 2

On the way Campidoglio Square, the amazing square designed by Michelangelo, we stop in several terraces to see and discuss the Roman Forum, including Arches of Triumph, the Temples of Vesta, Castor and Pollux and Saturn, the Roman Senate House, Basilicas and much more.
On the square, we admire the palaces designed by Michelangelo, the equestrian bronze sculpture of the emperor Marcus Aurelius and other Roman and Renaissance sculptures.

Stop 3

Our final point will the second theater constructed in Rome, the Theater of Marcellus.
We will see how, when and why it was constructed. The curious relationship it has with the Colosseum and how it was used during the Roman times, later and still is used today.
Here, we will also see the Temple of Apollo and the Porticus of Octavia, where we finish and I where I will give some final tips about the area, the Jewish Ghetto.

Stop 4

Our first stop is the Colosseum, explained and discussed from amazing points from which we can admire all the details and discuss it's history, function, construction techniques and many other details.

We do not go inside, as this would take all the time of the tour. We can organize the tour to finish in this point and guests can go inside with all the explanation and information provided right before.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting is in front of the Church of Santa Maria ai Monti.

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