Trajan’s Markets: Rome’s Ancient Shopping Mall & Imperial Centre
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Rome’s ancient daily life on a 1.5-hour guided tour of Trajan's Markets and the Museum of the Imperial Fora. Immerse yourself into the world’s oldest shopping mall, with its grand arches and well-preserved shopfronts. Feel as if you’ve stepped through a portal into ancient Rome and get a glimpse into the daily routines from nearly 2,000 years ago. Continue to the museum, where unique artefacts and captivating stories bring Rome's imperial history to life. Choose for a small group experience or private option for a truly exclusive journey through Roman architecture, history, and daily life. Don’t miss this immersive experience into the heart of ancient Rome’s past.
Available options
Private Tour in German
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: This option is for a 1.5hr private guided tour of Trajan's Market and Imperial Fora Museum with a German-speaking guide
Private Tour in Italian
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: This option is for a 1.5hr private guided tour of Trajan's Market and Imperial Fora Museum with a Italian-speaking guide
Private Tour in English
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: This option is for a 1.5hr private guided tour of Trajan's Market and Imperial Fora Museum with an English-speaking guide
Private Tour in Portuguese
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: This option is for a 1.5hr private guided tour of Trajan's Market and Imperial Fora Museum with a Portuguese-speaking guide
Private tour in Spanish
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: This option is for a 1.5hr private guided tour of Trajan's Market and Imperial Fora Museum with a Spanish-speaking guide
Small-Group Tour in English
Small-Group Tour<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: This option for a 1.5-hour shared guided tour of Trajan's Market and Imperial Fora museum in a group of maximum 10 in English
Private Tour in French
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: This option is for a 1.5hr private guided tour of Trajan's Market and Imperial Fora Museum with a French-speaking guide
What's included
Headsets to hear the guide clearly
Expert live guide
Entrance fees to Trajan's Markets and the Museum of the Imperial Fora
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your journey at Trajan’s Markets, often called the world’s oldest shopping mall—a stunning feat of Roman engineering. As you explore the multi-level structures, it’s as if you’ve stepped back 2,000 years into ancient Rome. Your guide will reveal fascinating details about Roman life and commerce, illustrating how this vibrant hub was once central to society.
Admire the grand arches, preserved shopfronts, and innovative designs that still inspire architecture today. Don’t miss the sweeping views of the nearby Imperial Forums and ruins—ideal spots for memorable photos.
Your tour continues inside at the Museum of the Imperial Fora, where sculptures and artefacts reveal Rome’s incredible history. As you walk through, your guide will share intriguing stories of the Imperial Fora, once the bustling heart of Roman life, and the emperors who built these imperial fora. Feel the spirit of ancient Rome and leave inspired by its lasting legacy in this immersive experience.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Pick-up and drop-off
Optional gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
PT
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The museum provides a wheelchair for people with reduced mobility
Three floors of the museum are accessible by wheelchair, the lower two unfortunately can't be visited with a wheelchair.
We recommend you to bring your own headphones in order to minimise plastic waste
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved and you will be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing steps
It is recommended to have a moderate level of fitness to join this tour since Trajan's Markets have many uneven surfaces and steps and stairs
Meeting point
Meet us in front of the iron gates of Trajan's Column, opposite the church of Santa Maria di Loreto, Via dei Fori Imperiali, 00187 Rome. Look for a member of staff holding a yellow Touriks sign.
Important notes
Meet us at Trajan’s Column (Colonna Traiana), Via dei Fori Imperiali, 00187 Rome. Look for a member of staff holding a yellow Touriks sign Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled starting time. We will not be able to accommodate late arrivals.
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
