Domus Aurea Tour, Golden House of an Emperor with VR Experience

Rome , Italy

Domus Aurea Tour, Golden House of an Emperor with VR Experience

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(46 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Domus Aurea was part of the project that Nero had devised to convert and transform Rome into a new city "Necropolis" following the Hellenistic model in the manner of Alexandria, this is, a city with an orthogonal plane with squares and wide rectilinear streets. With this same ideology, 60 years later, Emperor Hadrian built the gigantic Villa Tiburtina 30 km from Rome.

The cave was covered with painted figures. Soon the word spread and the young Roman artists lowered themselves down inside the cave to admire the beautiful ancient frescoes. Today the frescoes are faded but were studied during the Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo and Raphael. Raphael even took inspiration from the frescoes of the Domus Aurea for the making of the Vatican Loggia. Thanks to the discovery of these paintings, the artistic term "grotesque" was created.
The construction of the Domus Aurea also known as the Golden House has been considered the most extravagant construction in the history of Rome.

Available options

DOMUS AUREA – EDUCATIONAL TOUR

What's included

Guided tour language varies based on staff availability (English, Italian, French)

Entrance to the Domus Aurea

VR-Glass during the weekend and summer everyday Domus authority arranged

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Ticket Collection Instructions:

After receiving your Viator booking voucher, please do not go directly to the attraction, as this voucher is not your entry ticket.
To receive your official entry tour ticket (E-voucher), kindly send us an email, or simply wait for our message. We will contact you via Viator email or WhatsApp and send your direct E-voucher, which you must use to access the Domus entrance and join the guided tour.

Important Note:

N.B.: The Domus Aurea Guided Tour is organized exclusively by the Domus Authority.
Our role is to reserve your official tour ticket with the Domus Authority and deliver the confirmed entry ticket (E-voucher) directly to you.

Stop 2

The construction of the Domus Aurea also known as the Golden House has been considered the most extravagant construction in the history of Rome.
This building had ceilings stocked with semi-precious stones and finished in ivory, precious mosaics, pools and fountains plus an artificial lake. Most of the walls were covered in frescoes, the rooms finished in white marble with shapes that played with light. The Domus Aurea also had pools and fountains that echoed the sound of water in the hallways.Guided by an educational operator you will visit the exceptional exhibition dedicated to Raphael, on the 500th anniversary of his death. For the first time, the Domus Aurea hosts an exhibition in the Octagonal Room.
dedicated to the rediscovery of ancient paintings buried in the "caves" and to the interpretation given by Raphael and his followers to the "magical art" of Grotesques. In addition to the exhibition, you can also admire the site of the Domus Aurea.

What's not included

Admission to other sites

Private transportation

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.3

18 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

28 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Temperature Inside the Domus: The temperature inside the Domus is approximately 10°C. We strongly recommend wearing warm clothing and comfortable shoes.

No Cloakroom or Luggage Storage: The Domus Aurea does not have a cloakroom. It is not possible to store luggage, trolleys, or large bags on site.

Photography Restrictions: Photography and video recording of the multimedia reproduction of the Stufetta del Bibbiena (Room II) are strictly forbidden.

Ticket Delivery Process: After receiving your Viator booking voucher, do not go directly to the attraction, as it is not your entry ticket. Your official E-voucher (entry ticket) will be sent to you via email or WhatsApp 48 hours before your visit. Please wait for our message before heading to the meeting point.

No-Show and Late Arrival Policy: Refunds will not be issued for missed activities due to late arrival or non-attendance.

VR Glasses Availability: VR glasses are provided by Domus Aurea staff every weekend and daily during summer, according to site management.

Tour Language: The guided tour language is not fixed and depends on staff availability. Tours may be conducted in English, Italian, French, or other available languages on the selected date.

Meeting point

***IMPORTANT NOTICE: After your Viator booking confirmation must wait for the next confirmation email where send your Actual voucher to go directly to the Domus entrance 20 minutes before joining the tour authorized by Domus Aurea. please don’t go with a viator voucher to the Domus Entrance!

Important notes

How to Use Your Tickets:

After receiving your Viator voucher, do not go directly to the Domus with that voucher, as it is not your entry ticket.
Please wait for our message: we will contact you via Viator email or WhatsApp to send your official E-voucher, which you must use to access the attraction.

Please check your email inbox or spam folder for the E-voucher we sent approximately 24–48 hours before your visit.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

• High Demand & Limited Availability:
This experience is extremely popular, and availability is limited. After placing your order, please wait for the final confirmation email containing your official entry voucher. The first email you receive is not the entry ticket.
You may also need to remain flexible with time slots, as the final schedule will be indicated in the confirmation voucher.

• No-Show Policy:
Refunds are not provided if the activity is missed due to late arrival or non-arrival.

• Entry Ticket Delivery:
Do not go to the attraction with the initial booking confirmation. Your entry ticket will be sent to you via email or WhatsApp 48 hours before your visit, allowing you to proceed directly to the Domus entrance.

• Tour Language:
The guided tour language is not fixed. It may be in English, Italian, French, or another available language, depending on staff availability on the selected date.

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