Rome Full Day Tour: Colosseum and Vatican Museums, Small Group

Rome , Italy

Rome Full Day Tour: Colosseum and Vatican Museums, Small Group

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(7 reviews)

6h - 7h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Morning. The tour starts from the Colosseum, whose correct name in reality is Flavian Amphitheater, due to the imperial family who built this oval shaped structure in only eight years, from 72 to 80 AD.
Close to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, considered the real political – commercial – social –religious center of Rome. At the center of the Forum, even after 20 centuries, it is possible to walk on the same cobble-stones of the “Via Sacra”.
Time for lunch (not included)
Afternoon. visit of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s famous masterpieces. Strolling along the corridors to admire the world’s largest private art collection, once intended exclusively for the Pope.
Through Raphael’s Rooms, you will reach the beautiful breathtaking Sistine Chapel to admire one of the most sacred sites of the Vatican, here you will have the occasion to appreciate Michelangelo's amazing frescoes (“The Creation of the world” and the “Last Judgment”)

Available options

(F2+F3P) Private Tour Option

(F2+F3) Small Group Tour

What's included

6 hours Professional Guide

Skip the line ticket to the Vatican Museums

Lunch in typical Italian restaurant

Skip the line ticket Colosseum and Roman Forum

Transport from the Colosseum to the restaurant by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

meeting point in front of the hotel

Stop 2

The Roman Forum, formerly a marshy area, began to take its current shape only from the end of the 7th century BC, with the reclamation of the valley, to become the center of public life for over a millennium. Over the centuries various monuments were built: first the buildings for political, religious and commercial activities, then during the 2nd century BC. the civil basilicas, where judicial activities took place.

Already at the end of the Republican age, the ancient Roman Forum had become insufficient to carry out the function of the administrative and representation center of the city. The various dynasties of emperors added only prestigious monuments: the Temple of Vespasian and Titus and that of Antoninus Pius and Faustina dedicated to the memory of the deified emperors, and the monumental Arch of Septimius Severus, built at the western end of the square to celebrate the victories of the emperor.

Stop 3

The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater in the world, it was commissioned by the emperor Titus Flavius Vespasian who chose the area between the Palatine, Esquiline and Caelian hills to build it, previously occupied by the artificial lake of Nero's Domus Aurea.
The building, intended for fights, games between gladiators (munera), simulations of hunting ferocious and exotic animals (venationes) and naumachie (naval combats). The Colosseum is made up of four overlapping architectural orders; the first three are made up of eighty arches framed by semi-columns, the fourth is divided into panels interspersed with windows. In the last order, masonry and wooden supports were inserted to support an immense tarpaulin (velarium) which served to shelter spectators from the sun and rain.
189 meters long, 156 meters wide, for a height of over 48 metres, the Colosseum extends over a surface area of 24,000 m2 and could accommodate around 50 thousand spectators.

Stop 4

Transfer by deluxe minivan to the Vatican Museums meeting point. Here you can visit the Triumphal Market, the most famous and ancient in Rome. Inside, you will have the opportunity to sample typical Roman dishes. Our assistant will advise you on the best solution for your needs.

Stop 5

Visit of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s famous masterpieces. You will learn about other Sistine Chapel painters, Perugino (master of Raphael), Botticelli, Rosselli and Ghirlandaio (master of Michelangelo) and others.

Stop 6

The breathtakingly beautiful Sistine Chapel, which is considered the pope’s home chapel. Walk through this sacred Vatican site to see Michelangelo’s astounding frescoes, The Creation of Adam and The Last Judgment.

What's not included

Lunch and Drinks

Pickup and Drop off at hotel

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

7 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

If the St. Peter's Basilica is not accessible for any ceremonies, religious functions or early closures, the visit will take place outside.

Provide the Correct address of your accommodation , hotel, B&B

Provide the correct phone number with international country code

check that you provide all the details to the agency

Without this information we can not guarantee the correct service

Emergency number also operational via whatsapp

One day before please call to confirm the pick up

Each traveler must present a valid ID card or document that matches the name provided at the time of booking for successful entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Meeting point

Meeting point in front of the hotel forum

Important notes

• The meeting point is at the exit of ship
• The tour can be changed without notice due to weather and traffic. In order to improve the quality of our services and to avoid delays in the collection, we kindly ask for your cooperation to be ready at the meeting point at the scheduled time.
• You must provide the correct flight information, mobile phone, name ship
• Please inform customer services of any amendments or changes.
• No responsibility can be attributed to the operator of the service due to lack of correct information.
• It is recommended to check your booking.

Head Office (from 10am to 7pm on Monday to Friday) +39 0687772364 / +39 0687760030

Emergency +39 3890055460 / +39 3208216235

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

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