Rome: Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Self-Guided Audio Tour

Rome , Italy

Rome: Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

2h - 3h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover ancient Rome on a self-guided audio tour, exploring the once-majestic centers of power, Forum Romanum and Collis Palatium. Navigate easily with GPS and a map, immersing yourself in tales of grandeur and the legacy of King Romulus. Enjoy the freedom to explore this ancient world at your own pace.

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This is a private tour. Only your group will participate.

After you complete the reservation, install the SmartGuide mobile app. Find instructions and the TOUR LINK in the "Before You Go" section. Open the link and start exploring.

The SmartGuide mobile app plays audio automatically using your phone's GPS, even offline. Keep it in your pocket as you walk. Explore at your own pace and feel free to stop anytime during the tour.

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Admission and Opening Hours:

Note that an entrance fee is not included in the booking price.

Please book a ticket online. Be aware that you need to select a particular time slot to visit as visitor numbers are regulated to avoid overcrowding.

Available options

Rome: Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Access to Roman Forum and Palatine Hill self-guided tour

SmartGuide Mobile Application

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

See the meeting place for the Roman Senate, in the heart of the Roman Empire, where senators convened to discuss matters of state, legislation, and governance.

Stop 2

Pass by The Temple of Caesar or Temple of Divus Iulius, built to honor Julius Caesar.

Observe the excavated ruins of the Basilica Julia in the Roman Forum, including foundations, floors, a small back corner wall with arches, and a single column from its original and reconstructed phases during the Roman Empire.

See the remains of the Regia in the Roman Forum, a two-part structure along the Via Sacra that served as the residence of early Roman kings and later as the office of the pontifex maximus

Stop 5

See the Arch of Titus which commemorates Titus's deification and the victory over the Jewish rebellion.

Stop 6

Take a walk in the emerged botanical garden in Europe created in the mid-16th century.

Explore Domitian's imperial palace, including the uncertain function of his stadium.

Stop 8

See a white marble triumphal arch erected in 203 AD to commemorate Emperor Septimius Severus and his sons' Parthian victories

Stop 9

Pass by an architectural marvel by Rabirius, served as the lavish private residence within the Flavian Palace complex

The Flavian Palace, also known as the Domus Flavia, offers visitors the vast Palatine Hill complex with large public rooms.

What's not included

Smartphone

Transportation is not provided

Food & Drink

Tickets to Colosseum and Palatine Hill: Adults- €16 + Online res. fee- €2, Children/senior EU- free

Headphones

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the SmartGuide app and open the tour via the link provided on your confirmation ticket in the section "BEFORE YOU GO". This is a self-guided audio tour. Travelers navigate independently and explore at their own pace.

Important notes

INSTALL SMARTGUIDE APP AND ACTIVATE YOUR TOUR NOW + GET ACCESS TO ALL PREMIUM TOURS IN ROME
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THIS IS YOUR TOUR ACTIVATION LINK: https://get.smart-guide.org/PAFORO

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Open the link https://get.smart-guide.org/PAFORO in your browser's search tab (Google, Safari, Microsoft Edge, or other).
3. Search for Rome in the app & choose the tour & start exploring!
4. Enjoy free access to any tour at this destination for a month.

IMPORTANT NOTES
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- Activate the tour link for 1-month SmartGuide Premium, unlocking all tours at your destination in English.
- Open the link, pick your destination, select a tour, and hit "play audio" to begin your adventure. The SmartGuide app will lead the way.
- No internet? Download tours beforehand.
- Bring your headphones and a charged phone.
- The booking doesn't include an entrance fee. Please buy ticket via www.ecm.coopculture.it

Tickets are sold in all-inclusive packages due to their proximity to Colosseum and Palatine Hill. If you book on-site, offers typically include 2 of 3 areas. For example, the Forum and Palatinate are sold as one as they are part of the same archaeological zone. Please read the safety alert upon booking online!

Be aware that you need to select a particular time slot to visit as visitor numbers are regulated to avoid overcrowding. This is why it is better to book online in advance! The exact opening hours depend on the season. Open every day from 8.30 AM to around 4-7 PM except for 25th December and 1st January.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other inquiries, please email info(at)smart-guide.org.

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