Ancient Rome Discovery: Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Guided Tour

Rome , Italy

Ancient Rome Discovery: Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Guided Tour

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

With priority access tickets, you will get to head straight into the Colosseum and make the most of your time inside. Combined with the visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, you will walk away from this tour having thoroughly explored the ancient history of Rome that has attracted visitors such as yourself for millennia. You are guaranteed a professional, expert, english-speaking guide who will engage you in the history and stories surrounding these magnificent monuments.

Available options

Private Tour UPGRADE

Semi-Private Tour

What's included

Palatine Hill

Colosseum entrance ticket (valued at €18 per person)

Temple of Julius Caesar

Expert, top-rated, english-speaking guide

Palatine Hill and Ancient Roman Forum

Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)

Note: Colosseum fees are as above. The remaining cost of the experience covers other services

Titus Arch

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

With priority access, you’ll head straight into the Colosseum, through the curving archways, and out onto the first tier where you will be greeted by a magnificent panorama of this ancient wonder of the world. With your professional guide by your side, you will learn the history of emperors, gladiators, exotic animals, and the roman masses—all of whom met in this very arena. Imagine the roar of the crowd reverberating around you as you gaze across these romantic ruins.

Stop 2

The forum was once the heart of Rome’s commercial and political life, complete with ancient temples, theaters, and government buildings. On your tour, you will discover the remains of these lost wonders, strolling along streets where the ancient Romans themselves once walked as your expert guide brings the ruins to life through mesmerizing stories.

Stop 3

Your tour continues with a walk up to the Palatine Hill, once home to Rome’s rich and famous who lived in imperial palaces with incredible views over the city. Your guide will share stories of the lavish lifestyles of ancient Roman rules amidst the excavations.

What's not included

NO ACCESS TO ARENA FLOOR ON THIS TOUR

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

5 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

648 reviews

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644

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All Colosseum tours require photo ID for all participants; plan to bring your passports on the day of your tour. Failure to show identification will result in the denial of entry to the site.

The itinerary described above is a suggested order of the various experiences. These may vary according to your personal requests or preferred starting time.

Please note that all Colosseum tour starting times are subject to change based on ticket availability.

Meeting point

In front of the SOS sign outside the Colosseum Metro station's upper floor entrance, located in Largo Gaetana Agnesi. PLEASE NOTE: The metro station has an upper and lower entrance, both with SOS signs. Please ensure you are at the upper level.
Coordinates: 41.891560,12.491393

Important notes

All Colosseum tours require photo ID for all participants; plan to bring your passports on the day of your tour. Failure to show identification will result in the denial of entry to the site.

The itinerary described above is a suggested order of the various experiences. These may vary according to your personal requests or preferred starting time.

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