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19 Best Tours in Rome

By Maresa Manara and Erica Firpo

Vacation tours can be a divisive topic, particularly for people who feel passionately about exploring a city independently. But the truth of the matter is that exploring it with a local by your side will bring you to parts of it you might never find on your own. And no locals have as many stories to tell their city as the Romans. You'll find the most intellectual and personable tour guides to take you around vineyards, through olive groves, on vespa rides, through film studios, food markets, cemeteries, medieval churches, and the most iconic ancient sites. Without further delay, these are our picks for the very best Rome tours.

Click the link to read our complete Rome travel guide.

City Wonders: Ostia Antica Half-Day Tour from Rome Arrow

Ostia Antica is a historic seaside village an hour from Rome and these half-day tours of the coastal archaeological site are well-planned. Groups visit Ostia’s amphitheater, temples, historic baths, and ancient market. Guides seem to have real passion for the subject, talking visitors through the entire tour, peppering their commentary with anecdotes and fun facts. This is a slam-dunk for true history buffs who want to get deeper into the greater Rome area.

Elizabeth Lev: Rome's Historical Center, An All-You-Can-See Smorgasbord of Art Arrow

Elizabeth Lev is something else. Rome is her city, and this tour is her work of art. She has an incredible way of engaging with the history, the art, the monuments, and the stories. You'll find yourself wanting to spend all your time with her. The tour explores the ancient, medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque art periods; and it visits sites like 13th century frescos above the church of Santa Cecilia and art collections behind the facades of the Spada palace. You'll be wowed by all of the layers of the city and how it feels like Rome has been hitting a string of never-ending home runs since antiquity.

Elizabeth Lev: Borrowed but Never Baroque, Bernini & 17th Century Rome Arrow

This tour of Elizabeth Lev's meets up outside the beautiful Piazza della Repubblica . Our group was tiny, but Liz will accommodate larger private groups. She is both an incredible academic brain and a witty storyteller. And her tour shows of the dramatic  range of Baroque art and architecture within Rome. This tour is great for anyone who wants a deep dive into the city's Baroque history, and anyone who wants to appreciate Rome in an experience that's not quite in the guide books.

LivItaly Tours: Vespa Sidecar Tour Arrow

The Vespa Sidecar tour is entirely private and can be customized for return visitors who may have already seen the highlights. It is not, though, a show-up-when-you-want activity. It can be organized for up to six participants, but you'll only be in a group if you choose to be. My tour was perfect because it was just me and the driver/guide Luca.  As a licensed guide, he knows his history, is easy to understand, and is very friendly. He always has a plan, but is quick to change it at the first request. We talked Rome and food and went to all the right places, from big names to more under the radar finds. 

Olivia Morelli

Stacey Lastoe

Maresa Manara

Rome 500 Experience: The 7 Hidden Gems of Rome Tour in an Antique FIAT 500 Arrow

There's a lot of reasons to sign up for this tour through greater Rome, not least is that you get to drive yourself with the top down in a vintage Fiat 500. Another nice perk: Rome's traffic is seriously easier to deal with when traveling in convoy (the group can have up to 50 cars in it). And, as you will get your own car to drive, it can feel like a private tour, although groups are also organized by language, so communication shouldn't be a problem for anyone.  But most importantly, you just look so much better behind the wheel of a classic Italian car.

Top Bike Rental & Tours: Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs, and Aqueducts Park Tour Arrow

This tour will take the better part of your day (it's six hours start to finish). But going by bike to these outer city sites —the old Appian Way via the ancient aqueduct—is the easiest and most entertaining way to see them. Plus you won't want to cut out early: it ends with wine and some nibbles in Caffarella Park, which is so expansive it feels like you're in the countryside even though it's smack in the middle of the greater city. Bikes feel brand new and the confidence of the tour guides will put any nervous riders at ease.

Rome Tram Tracks Tour Arrow

This tour is a rocking dance  party on a vintage tram that rumbles through Rome. It lasts two hours, during which you'll cut up the dance floor, drink, and cheer as you roll past some of Rome's most iconic sites . This is really an evening activity for those who don't just want to go get dinner somewhere in town. The greatest part, however, may have been how the senior citizens on our ride managed to upstage all the thirty- and forty-year olds on the dance floor.

Casa Mia Tours: Rome Cinema & Food Arrow

Rome has a rich history of cinema, and while you could take any tour with any guide, there is nothing quite like seeing its cinematic history with Eleonora Baldwin, Cinecittà Studios veteran and granddaughter of famed director Vittorio de Sica, four-time Academy Award winner and father of Italian cinema. This tour is both Rome's history and Eleonora's story, and she is so passionate that it will make you want to spend all day with her, and all night watching films. There are only three requirements—a pair of comfy shoes, an empty stomach, and a reservation.

Non-Catholic Cemetery Tour Arrow

You should always visit the truly Roman neighborhood of Testaccio when in Rome, but this tour of its historic non-Catholic Cemetery gives you reason to stay in the area after you've hit its prime trattorias. It's a beautiful, unusually tranquil space, filled with bougainvillea and museum-worthy sculptures in the middle of the city. The informative guides will school you on the cemetery's 400-year history as you amble past the tombstones of Keats, Percy Shelly, and other famous expats.

Context Travel: Fall and Rise of Rome Arrow

This historical tour starts at a medieval church in San Clemente and ends at the church of SS. Giovanni e Paolo. Its chronology spans from the Roman Empire's fall to the Renaissance's beginnings. The guide Philip was total pro. He's an archaeologist with a great sense of humor and passion for every site. He knew exactly what to show me and could even point out where to stand so I had the best understanding of the sights. People who enjoy Roman, religious, and art histories will  love this tour. It's also a great opportunity for people who have already seen the main tourist attractions to see some gems off the beaten path.

The Roman Guy: Cocktail Bars in Rome, Evening Walking Tour Arrow

This English-speaking tour will take you to some of Rome's most popular bars, including Trastevere's Freni e Frizioni , with stop offs to major attractions along the way. Plus, company founders Sean and Brandon are always quick to offer tips on the best spots for gelato or pizza in the city as you pass by for that next negroni. It’s actually a fantastic way to experience life in Rome with locals—far more relaxing that spending time trying to avoid tourist traps. 

Katie Parla: Vineyard Visit to Cantina Ribelà Arrow

Sommelier Maurizio di Franco meets you at your hotel and accompanies you via hired car to Cantina Ribelà while enchanting you with a bit of Lazio history and winemaking background on Ribelà. Maurizio is a certificated sommelier, and it doesn't hurt that he's also super charming. His love of wine is contagious, he tells great stories, and his patience is wonderful. At the winery you'll be struck be the natural beauty of the landscape, close as it is to a city as big as Rome. 

LivItaly Tours: Virtual Reality Tour of the Colosseum and Domus Aurea Arrow

Imagine if you could physically see the sites, monuments, and reference points that tour guides bring up when ushering you around a city as ancient as Rome. This virtual reality tour lets you, by creating enhanced versions of the way the Eternal City appeared during the days of the empire, all visible through the glasses you'll wear as you make your way through the Roman Forum and Colosseum .

Vatican Museums: “Out of Hours” Guided Tour, Good Morning Vatican Museums Arrow

There is nothing like opening the doors to an empty Sistine Chapel . The exclusive private Out of Hours Good Morning Vatican tour must be booked months in advance and is subject to permission of the Vatican. You will be greeted by Vatican personnel and escorted through the complex by the Clavigero, holder of the 300 keys of the Vatican Museums. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and it does begin quite early in the morning. At 6 a.m. you and no more than 19 others will accompany the Clavigero to open the doors of the Vatican Museums.  

Johnny Madge: Olive Oil Tours Arrow

You'll have to trek well outside the city (close to an hour) to reach the olive groves in the Sabina country, but it's well worth the trip. Johnny Madge is an olive oil authority , judging competitions all over the world and this is his backyard. He clearly loves it, and that love is contagious. Tourees will learn to distinguish extra virgin olive oil from everything else and importantly that you do not drizzle oil on your food. You pour it. This  is best for foodies who want to get out of the city and deep dive in Roman food. 

Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini: Multimedia Tour Arrow

The Domus Romane are ancient Roman villas and other structures, abandoned in antiquity, filled in with debris, and inadvertently used as foundations for Palazzo Valentini, a Renaissance palace turned government office building. They are now underground, obscured by buildings and pavement just beside Piazza Venezia. On this tour, in situ multimedia renderings recreate an Imperial Rome domus, as well as some aspects of Roman life. The guides are actual archaeologists, and the fact-checked audio is delivered cleanly. These language-specific multimedia tours are popular though, and must be booked in advance.

Tavole Romane Food Tours: The Rome Food Walking Tour Arrow

Think of Tavole Romane, the food-and-wine-focused walking tour of Rome, as getting access to the little black book of those who know the city's food scene best. Owners Gabriele and Silvia customize the tours based on the interests of each intimate group, which could mean wine bars in Trastevere or an aperitivo-heavy hop through the centro storico, led by somms, chefs, or another tapped in member of Rome's food scene.

Latteria Studio: Market to Table Arrow

This market tour and cooking class began with a wonderful walk through the market to Latteria Studios, a functional cooking studio and photo set. Alice, Rachel, and Carla, who head up the activities, are real professionals. They know everyone at the market, and they know all about food. Sitting at the table at the end of day fosters a real sense of community with what may have been a group of strangers from different countries and continents. You'll immerse yourself in Rome and make new friends at the same time. 

Cinecittà Studios: VIP Tour Arrow

This is your chance to see the studio that was once home to Fellini and Leone. It's still a working studio though, so you'll need to follow the guide's itinerary to the letter. She will know about Cinecittà though: its history, and its film productions, and its famous alumni. Also, Cinecittà owns every set that was built on the lot. Master artisans created them all—ancient Rome, a 1940s submarine, and fantastical, imagined worlds. They perfectly accurate to their settings, as well as pristinely preserved.

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19 best rome tours of 2024: food, the vatican & more.

These top-rated Rome tours are led by experts who bring the city's history to life.

The Best Rome Tours

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Considered one of the world's best places to visit , Rome offers countless things to do and an endless selection of delicious cuisine. But given the overwhelming crowds and restricted access to ancient sites, it can be difficult to fully enjoy all that Italy's capital has to offer on your own. That's where a guided tour can help.

Based on recent traveler reviews and expert opinion, we've selected the best tours in Rome. Whether you're gliding past the Colosseum on a Segway or savoring Italian wine in the countryside, you'll benefit from fun and informative guides leading the way.

Fat Tire Tours Rome – Rome Day Segway Tour

Price: From 73 euros (around $79) Duration: 3 hours

Hop on a Segway to see the Eternal City's many sights. After receiving your helmet and tuning in to a quick training session, you'll receive a headset to follow the lively commentary from the experienced Fat Tire Tours guide. Along the three-hour ride, you'll glide past sights like Trajan's Forum, Capitoline Hill and more. Plus, you'll don a virtual reality headset during your stop outside the Colosseum that reconstructs the famous arena's past grandeur. Travelers appreciate that Segways make getting around and seeing Rome's sights easier and more fun, especially for families with older teens. Reviewers also appreciate the engaging local guides.

Tours run daily at 9:30 a.m. Participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Pregnant women are not permitted on this tour. The company also leads a night tour, which visits the city's illuminated monuments after sundown, among other outings.

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LivItaly Tours – Colosseum Underground Tour with Arena, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

Price: Adults from 159 euros (around $173); kids from 144 euros (around $156) Duration: 3 hours

Enjoy swift entry to the Colosseum underground and see the arena floor, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum on this small-group tour. LivItaly leads up to six travelers to the restricted lower level of the Colosseum, where dungeons once confined gladiators and their opponents. In three hours, learn about ancient Rome's social order on Palatine Hill and everyday life at the forum. Travelers, especially those with children, agree that having a passionate guide with a deep knowledge of Roman history enriched the experience. Reviewers also appreciate the small size of the tour group.

Tours depart daily at multiple times beginning at 12:15 p.m. Book the company's 90-minute Express Colosseum Underground & Arena Tour if you're short on time.

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz Dec. 19, 2023

TopBike Rental and Tours – Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs and Aqueducts Park

Price: From 65 euros (about $71) to 89 euros (about $97) Duration: 4 or 6 hours

Travelers have been using the Ancient Appian Way for 2,300 years and you'll traverse it with a friendly, knowledgeable local on this electric bike excursion. Along the ride, you'll pass archeological sites, Christian catacombs and picturesque Roman aqueducts framing the unspoiled countryside. The tour covers roughly 17 miles, 60% of which requires off-road cycling, so TopBike recommends this tour for intermediate riders. Some tourgoers say you might not even break a sweat though, thanks to the ease of the electric bikes.

Tourgoers can opt for the Short Tour (four hours) or the Plus Tour (six hours), the latter of which follows the same path as the shorter excursion and also includes a guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Saint Sebastian) and a stop at the Baths of Caracalla. Exact tour departure times vary by season, but you can expect to start around 9 a.m. TopBike also leads cycling tours within the city center.

Gourmetaly – Campo de' Fiori, Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 93 euros (around $101); kids from 65 euros (around $71) Duration: 3.5 hours

Tantalize your taste buds on this Rome food tour, which covers three distinct neighborhoods known for their cuisine. As your local guide leads you through the Jewish ghetto, Campo de' Fiori and Trastevere, you'll stop by top-rated food markets, grocery stores, coffee shops, gelaterias and restaurants. Among the food samples included in the tour are fried artichokes, pizza, mozzarella, fresh pasta and gelato. Tours are capped at 12 participants. Reviewers call this a delightful experience thanks to the informative guides who offer an interesting lesson on Roman history, food and culture. They also recommend taking this tour on your first day in Rome to make the most of the guides' recommendations.

Tours are offered several times each day in the morning and afternoon. Note that the afternoon tour does not visit the Campo de' Fiori market (a highlight for many recent tourgoers). In addition to food tours, Gourmetaly also hosts cooking classes.

Eyes of Rome – Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

Price: Adults from 453 euros (around $491); kids from 35 euros (around $38) Duration: 3 hours

With your private guide leading the way, you'll visit the Colosseum, explore the ancient city along paths that served the Roman Senate and learn the legends of the House of the Vestal Virgins. Tourgoers value the attentive guides who share history and lore in an entertaining way. They also say the tour is well-paced.

Tickets cover pick up at centrally located hotels and skip-the-line admission. Note that prices can vary significantly depending on the number of people in your party. A couple can expect to pay roughly $500 for tickets. Eyes of Rome also conducts private walking tours of the Vatican.

Private Tours of Rome – Vatican & Sistine Chapel Private Tour

Price: From $364 Duration: 3 hours

One of the best tours of the Vatican , this intimate excursion includes skip-the-line access to the complex and a guide who shares the Vatican Museums' top attractions in just three hours. See the artistic highlights in the   Gallery of Ancient Roman Sculptures, the Gallery of Tapestries and famous Raphael paintings. You'll then experience Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will ensure you see the Pietà   in St. Peter's Basilica, the Apostolic Palace and the famous balcony where the pope delivers his blessings. Travelers praise the excellent guides who tailor the tour to groups' interests and keep children engaged.

Tours operate Monday through Saturday in the morning and afternoon. Ticket prices vary depending on your itinerary and group size. The company suggests you book at least one month in advance to ensure a specialist authorized by the Vatican is available. Private Tours of Rome also offers tours of the Colosseum and the Borghese Gallery, among others.

Courtesy of Roman Food Tours

The Roman Food Tour – Prati By Sunset

Price: Adults from 99 euro (about $107); kids from 90 euros (about $98) Duration: 4 hours

Devoted foodies skip lunch for the more than 20 food and wine pairings on this four-hour evening tour of some of Rome's top eateries. Throughout the tour, you'll feast on gourmet delights, such as homemade pasta, pizza, fresh cheeses and gelato. More importantly, you'll learn tips to enhance your knowledge and pleasure in Italian cuisine. Travelers praise the expertise of the fun guides who explain each dish's origin and quality with gusto.

Tours, which are offered daily multiple times starting at 3:30 p.m. The Roman Food Tour also offers day tours and cooking classes.

Rex-Tours – Rome City Segway Tour

Price: From 79 euros (about $86) Duration: 3 hours

Roll in comfort past many of ancient Rome's major sights on this three-hour Segway tour. Rex-Tours' expert guides lead up to eight travelers for an effortless overview of must-see landmarks, such as Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum. Reviewers applaud the knowledgeable guides who offer a wealth of information without overwhelming travelers. What's more, guides provide restaurant recommendations and tips for making the most of your visit to Rome, according to tourgoers.

The Rome City Segway Tour departs twice daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Travelers also recommend enjoying the company's evening Segway tour if you're visiting during the summer and need a break from the peak daytime heat.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Eating Europe – Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 114 euros (about $123); kids from 81 euros (about $88) Duration: 4 hours

Travelers suggest you skip lunch before this evening walking tour of Trastevere, so that you can savor the street food and sweet treats served at each stop. As you meander through the neighborhood (often compared to New York City's Greenwich Village), you'll enjoy mouthwatering bites of everything from classic supplì , or fried risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella, to porchetta, homemade pasta and gelato. Foodie guides share each chef's story and culinary traditions, along with tips on how to find and make the best Roman cuisine on your own. Reviewers praise the guides for their insider knowledge and gush about the quality of the food and wine featured on the tour.

Tours run daily at multiple times and there is a maximum of 12 people per tour. Eating Europe also operates a tour that explores Testaccio, considered Rome's "original foodie neighborhood."

Rolling Rome – Rome Squares & Fountains Golf Cart Tour

Price: From 100 euros (about $108) Duration: 3 hours

Avoid Rome's congested traffic and keep the family entertained on this three-hour, private golf cart tour of the city. Whizz past major sights in the historical center and piazzas Venezia, Navona and del Popolo, plus the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and more. Since the tour is customizable, you can also ask the guide to take you to lesser-known spots in the city – a highlight for reviewers. Along with the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, reviewers appreciate the golf cart's ability to avoid traffic using Rome's narrow back lanes.

Tours, which can accommodate up to seven participants, depart daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. One week's advance reservation is recommended. Rolling Rome also offers daylong golf cart tours, as well as a variety of Segway and electric bike tours.

Food Tours of Rome – Jewish Ghetto and Campo de' Fiori by Night Food Tour

Price: Adults from 89 euros (about $96); kids from 75 euros (about $81) Duration: 4 hours

Combine sightseeing with snacking and drinking on this evening tour of the Jewish ghetto and the Campo Marzio area. Fun, knowledgeable guides make seven stops for food and wine between explaining major historic attractions like Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori. Stop in delis, family-run shops and restaurants to sample gourmet cheeses and hams, pasta, espresso, and gelato. First-time visitors especially appreciate this informative introduction to the city and the family-run vendors featured on the tour.

Tours depart nightly at 6 p.m. Food Tours of Rome can accommodate some special diets with advance notice. The company also offers a dessert and sightseeing tour of Rome, among various other options.

What A Life Tours – Skip-the-line Vatican Small Group Tour

Price: Adults from $87; kids from $82 Duration: 3 hours

Travelers say this tour is worthwhile thanks to the personable guides, who bring the history of the Vatican Museums to life. Reviewers also appreciate that groups are capped at 12 participants, which they say creates an intimate experience that fosters engagement between guides and tourgoers. You'll start the three-hour tour with skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums to admire highlights like the Gallery of Maps and the Pinecone Courtyard. Then, you'll head to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica to marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà. Along the way, your guide will share commentary that you'll be able to hear via an audio headset.

Tours generally operate Monday through Saturday at 10 a.m.; tours depart at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday. In addition to its variety of Vatican tours, the company also offers tours of the Colosseum and daylong tours of Rome.

Rome's Ultimate Free Walking Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

According to reviewers, this free walking tour is a great way to start your visit in Rome. During the nearly three-hour stroll, you'll visit several photo-worthy piazzas, the Pantheon, Ponte Sant'Angelo and Castel Sant'Angelo, among other sights. Guides, who have backgrounds in subjects like history and architecture, earn praise from reviewers for their entertaining storytelling and thoughtful restaurant and activity recommendations.

Tours, which are limited to 15 participants, operate twice daily at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. In total, you'll walk less than 2 miles. According to the company, the tour is suitable for travel strollers and wheelchairs. Though the tour is free, it's recommended that you reserve your spot in advance via the company's website (guides do not wait at the departure point unless reservations are booked). At the end of the tour, you can tip your guide based on your experience.

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Courtesy of Secret Food Tours Rome

Secret Food Tours – Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 79 euros (about $86); kids from 69 euros (about $75) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Dine your way through the historical center of Rome, visiting cafes, markets and shops for a total of up to seven stops. During the tour, you'll walk through neighborhoods like the Campo de' Fiori and the Jewish quarter with an enthusiastic guide who ties together history and insights about traditional dishes. The focus is on Italian-style dining: savoring the perfect cappuccino, sampling fresh pizzas and homemade pastas, pairing wines with a variety of cheeses, gelato and more. Travelers praise the guides' knowledge of Roman cuisine and the amount and quality of the food.

Tours depart daily at 11 and 11:30 a.m. An additional 5 p.m. tour may be available depending on the day. Private tours are also an option.

The Roman Guy – Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Price: Adults from $119; kids from $56 Duration: 3 hours

Hoping to see the Vatican sans enormous crowds? This three-hour tour from The Roman Guy convenes at 7:45 a.m., allowing you to enter the Vatican Museums an hour before they open to the general public. First, relish the tranquil Sistine Chapel, which welcomes upward of 25,000 visitors daily during the summer. Afterward, follow your guide to museum highlights, including Raphael's paintings, the Borgia Apartments and the Gallery of the Maps. Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and say the opportunity to see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds is worth the tour price (though reviewers warn that you will still encounter quite a few other tour groups enjoying early access to the site).

Tours are available Monday through Saturday. Groups are capped at 14 people. If you're short on time, consider The Roman Guy's abridged Vatican Highlights tour, which last 2.5 hours.

City Wonders – Tuscan Countryside Day Trip from Rome with 3-Course Lunch & Wine Tasting

Price: Adults from $112; kids from $102 Duration: 12 hours

If you want to visit Tuscany while in Rome, but don't want to drive the approximately 175-mile journey yourself, consider this 12-hour excursion from City Wonders. You'll depart from Rome at 7:30 a.m. via an air-conditioned coach bus to see famous hilltop towns, such as Montepulciano and Pienza. You'll also visit the Renaissance church of St. Biagio before enjoying a three-course lunch and wine pairing in the famed Montalcino. Travelers say guides are informative and thoughtful, giving tourists ample time to explore the towns and take pictures. All agree that leaving the driving to a professional made the trip worthwhile.

Tours are offered daily. City Wonders also offers a variety of tours in Rome, including tours of the Colosseum, the Vatican and the Borghese Gallery.

Through Eternity Tours – Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Sistine Chapel: Essential Experience

Price: From 1,345 euros (about $1,458) Duration: 6 hours

Conquer Rome in six hours with Through Eternity Tours. With your skip-the-line tickets , you'll visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Professional, engaging guides – all fluent English speakers – allow you to set the pace, absorbing as much history and archeology as you want at each stop. Travelers say you'll see much more on this half-day tour than you would if you were to visit each site on your own, as guides point out unexpected gems along the way.

Rates can vary considerably depending on the number in your party, and the company offers discounts for students and children. Bring stamina, a water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes . When you're ready for more, try one of Through Eternity's other tours, such as its evening tour of Rome's piazzas and fountains.

Walks of Italy – Gladiator's Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $99 Duration: 3 hours

On this three-hour tour, you'll enter the Colosseum through the "Gladiator's Gate" – the entrance that was once used exclusively for gladiators 2,000 years ago. Once inside, you'll enjoy 360-degree views of the Colosseum on the reconstructed arena floor as your guide shares the gory history of this famous landmark . Then, you'll bypass the lines to tour the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Highlights include the cremation point of Julius Caesar, senate buildings and the Temple of the Vestal Virgins. Guides win kudos from travelers for their ability to discuss dense history topics in an engaging manner. Reviewers say the tour flies by thanks to the guides' entertaining storytelling. They also appreciate the skip-the-line access to these must-see sights.

Tours, which are capped at 25 participants, are offered three times daily at 9:15 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Rates may vary based on the time of year, and they include all entrance tickets and the use of audio headsets during the tour. Walks of Italy also hosts cooking classes in Rome and organizes day trips to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.

Maya Tours – Skip-the-Line Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Group Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 2 hours

If you're interested in visiting the Vatican Museums, but don't want to devote more than a couple hours of your Rome vacation to the experience, consider this kid-friendly tour. In addition to skip-the-line access, your guide will show you the must-see artworks, several courtyards and galleries, and the Sistine Chapel. Reviewers praise guides for their interesting and informed commentary (which tourgoers can hear via audio headsets). Parents are particularly impressed with guides' ability to engage children.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday multiple times in the morning and afternoon. Maya Tours also operates longer, semiprivate tours of the Vatican.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Rome
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Italy Tours + Small-Group Trips
• The Best International Travel Insurance

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Trenitalia's best rail pass: Italia in Tour (Regionale train - Rome Forum

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Trenitalia's best rail pass: Italia in Tour (Regionale train

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From time to time, I read inquiries from tourists about the advisability of purchasing one of Trenitalia's train passes, rather than individual tickets.

Are these passes cost-efficient?

The fare structure of the train pass for the fast reserved trains is such that you would need to do quite a bit of traveling to reach the break-even point within the timeframe of the pass selected. Take a look at the fares and compare what you would spend by purchasing individual tickets:

https://www.trenitalia.com/en/offers/trenitalia-pass.html

Trenitalia also offers two passes for travel exclusively on its unreserved regionale trains. This pass is called "Italia in Tour" and, as contrasted to the pass for the reserved fast trains, can indeed be quite advantageous.

https://www.trenitalia.com/en/offers/italia-in-tour.html

Let's give a practical example: let's say you are based in Florence for several days and want to take daytrips by train to several important art cities, e.g.: Orvieto, Perugia and Siena.

A round-trip ticket from Florence to Orvieto on the Trenitalia unreserved regionale train costs 36.20 Euros. However, the 3-day Italia in Tour pass costs 29 Euros, and you can use it for three CONSECUTIVE days on most regionale trains in Italy. Now add the cost of round-trip travel to Perugia (30.30 Euros) and Siena (20.40 Euros) and you see that the pass saves you 57.9 Euros or nearly 67% of the regular round-trip fare, if you use it for all three days. But even if you use it only to go to Orvieto, you've already saved 7.20 Euros!

Trenitalia also has a 5-day pass for the regionale trains for 49 Euros, which can give even greater savings if used to the maximum.

These passes can be purchased online through the Trenitalia website or app, or at the train station. The pass is nominative, non-transferable, non-changeable and non-refundable. You must indicate the effective date (first day of usage). You do not indicate the origination or destination city. The ticket does not need to be validated nor (in the case of a pass in electronic form) do you need to "check-in" to board the first train.

It is important to understand the rules and restrictions of these passes:

"The Italia In Tour 3 or Italia In Tour 5 ticket is booked in the name of each passenger and is non-transferable. Changes, refunds or class and service upgrades cannot be made. There is no need to select the origin or destination of your trip. Indeed, with Italia In Tour 3 and Italia In Tour 5, you can travel for 3 or 5 consecutive days throughout Italy on all Trenitalia and Trenitalia Tper regional, fast regional and metropolitan trains, including the Leonardo Express . The Promo is not valid within the territory of the Cinque Terre National Park, delimited by the stations of Levanto and La Spezia Centrale and including the stations of Monterosso, Vernazza , Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, within the territory of Lombardy, the provinces of Bolzano and from Trento to Bassano del Grappa, nor is it valid aboard services operated by other transport companies, including Trenord.

The Promo is not valid for journeys in combination with other carriers."

CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 12 PAY HALF PRICE: 15 EUROS FOR THE 3-DAY PASS AND 25 EUROS FOR THE 5-DAY PASS.

(Children under the age of 4 can travel free without a ticket and without a guaranteed seat).

You could, if you have the stamina and desire, use this pass for UNLIMITED travel on the Trenitalia regionale trains for the time period selected (3 or 5 consecutive days) to simply tour Italy's hinterland by train without stopping to visit cities, but rather connecting between regionale trains as part of a geographically extensive itinerary involving many hours of train travel.

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Trenitalia's best rail pass: Italia in Tour (Regionale train - Rome Forum

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Trenitalia's best rail pass: Italia in Tour (Regionale train

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From time to time, I read inquiries from tourists about the advisability of purchasing one of Trenitalia's train passes, rather than individual tickets.

Are these passes cost-efficient?

The fare structure of the train pass for the fast reserved trains is such that you would need to do quite a bit of traveling to reach the break-even point within the timeframe of the pass selected. Take a look at the fares and compare what you would spend by purchasing individual tickets:

https://www.trenitalia.com/en/offers/trenitalia-pass.html

Trenitalia also offers two passes for travel exclusively on its unreserved regionale trains. This pass is called "Italia in Tour" and, as contrasted to the pass for the reserved fast trains, can indeed be quite advantageous.

https://www.trenitalia.com/en/offers/italia-in-tour.html

Let's give a practical example: let's say you are based in Florence for several days and want to take daytrips by train to several important art cities, e.g.: Orvieto, Perugia and Siena.

A round-trip ticket from Florence to Orvieto on the Trenitalia unreserved regionale train costs 36.20 Euros. However, the 3-day Italia in Tour pass costs 29 Euros, and you can use it for three CONSECUTIVE days on most regionale trains in Italy. Now add the cost of round-trip travel to Perugia (30.30 Euros) and Siena (20.40 Euros) and you see that the pass saves you 57.9 Euros or nearly 67% of the regular round-trip fare, if you use it for all three days. But even if you use it only to go to Orvieto, you've already saved 7.20 Euros!

Trenitalia also has a 5-day pass for the regionale trains for 49 Euros, which can give even greater savings if used to the maximum.

These passes can be purchased online through the Trenitalia website or app, or at the train station. The pass is nominative, non-transferable, non-changeable and non-refundable. You must indicate the effective date (first day of usage). You do not indicate the origination or destination city. The ticket does not need to be validated nor (in the case of a pass in electronic form) do you need to "check-in" to board the first train.

It is important to understand the rules and restrictions of these passes:

"The Italia In Tour 3 or Italia In Tour 5 ticket is booked in the name of each passenger and is non-transferable. Changes, refunds or class and service upgrades cannot be made. There is no need to select the origin or destination of your trip. Indeed, with Italia In Tour 3 and Italia In Tour 5, you can travel for 3 or 5 consecutive days throughout Italy on all Trenitalia and Trenitalia Tper regional, fast regional and metropolitan trains, including the Leonardo Express . The Promo is not valid within the territory of the Cinque Terre National Park, delimited by the stations of Levanto and La Spezia Centrale and including the stations of Monterosso, Vernazza , Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, within the territory of Lombardy, the provinces of Bolzano and from Trento to Bassano del Grappa, nor is it valid aboard services operated by other transport companies, including Trenord.

The Promo is not valid for journeys in combination with other carriers."

CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 12 PAY HALF PRICE: 15 EUROS FOR THE 3-DAY PASS AND 25 EUROS FOR THE 5-DAY PASS.

(Children under the age of 4 can travel free without a ticket and without a guaranteed seat).

You could, if you have the stamina and desire, use this pass for UNLIMITED travel on the Trenitalia regionale trains for the time period selected (3 or 5 consecutive days) to simply tour Italy's hinterland by train without stopping to visit cities, but rather connecting between regionale trains as part of a geographically extensive itinerary involving many hours of train travel.

• Cocktails and live music 11:12
• Borghese gallery- Tickets for May mid - not open yet ? 10:05
• Urgent - Tickets to Vatican - am getting it on site 09:35
• New Notice on Parco Archeologico Del Colosseo Website 09:19
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• Child tickets for Colosseum 08:01
• May 1st Colosseum is Opem 07:57
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• Water flows again at Caracalla yesterday
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• General Italy travel tips

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• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Trenitalia's best rail pass: Italia in Tour (Regionale train - Rome Forum

• Europe    
• Italy    
• Lazio    
• Rome    

Trenitalia's best rail pass: Italia in Tour (Regionale train

• United Kingdom Forums
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• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
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• Traveling With Disabilities
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• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Lazio forums

From time to time, I read inquiries from tourists about the advisability of purchasing one of Trenitalia's train passes, rather than individual tickets.

Are these passes cost-efficient?

The fare structure of the train pass for the fast reserved trains is such that you would need to do quite a bit of traveling to reach the break-even point within the timeframe of the pass selected. Take a look at the fares and compare what you would spend by purchasing individual tickets:

https://www.trenitalia.com/en/offers/trenitalia-pass.html

Trenitalia also offers two passes for travel exclusively on its unreserved regionale trains. This pass is called "Italia in Tour" and, as contrasted to the pass for the reserved fast trains, can indeed be quite advantageous.

https://www.trenitalia.com/en/offers/italia-in-tour.html

Let's give a practical example: let's say you are based in Florence for several days and want to take daytrips by train to several important art cities, e.g.: Orvieto, Perugia and Siena.

A round-trip ticket from Florence to Orvieto on the Trenitalia unreserved regionale train costs 36.20 Euros. However, the 3-day Italia in Tour pass costs 29 Euros, and you can use it for three CONSECUTIVE days on most regionale trains in Italy. Now add the cost of round-trip travel to Perugia (30.30 Euros) and Siena (20.40 Euros) and you see that the pass saves you 57.9 Euros or nearly 67% of the regular round-trip fare, if you use it for all three days. But even if you use it only to go to Orvieto, you've already saved 7.20 Euros!

Trenitalia also has a 5-day pass for the regionale trains for 49 Euros, which can give even greater savings if used to the maximum.

These passes can be purchased online through the Trenitalia website or app, or at the train station. The pass is nominative, non-transferable, non-changeable and non-refundable. You must indicate the effective date (first day of usage). You do not indicate the origination or destination city. The ticket does not need to be validated nor (in the case of a pass in electronic form) do you need to "check-in" to board the first train.

It is important to understand the rules and restrictions of these passes:

"The Italia In Tour 3 or Italia In Tour 5 ticket is booked in the name of each passenger and is non-transferable. Changes, refunds or class and service upgrades cannot be made. There is no need to select the origin or destination of your trip. Indeed, with Italia In Tour 3 and Italia In Tour 5, you can travel for 3 or 5 consecutive days throughout Italy on all Trenitalia and Trenitalia Tper regional, fast regional and metropolitan trains, including the Leonardo Express . The Promo is not valid within the territory of the Cinque Terre National Park, delimited by the stations of Levanto and La Spezia Centrale and including the stations of Monterosso, Vernazza , Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, within the territory of Lombardy, the provinces of Bolzano and from Trento to Bassano del Grappa, nor is it valid aboard services operated by other transport companies, including Trenord.

The Promo is not valid for journeys in combination with other carriers."

CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 12 PAY HALF PRICE: 15 EUROS FOR THE 3-DAY PASS AND 25 EUROS FOR THE 5-DAY PASS.

(Children under the age of 4 can travel free without a ticket and without a guaranteed seat).

You could, if you have the stamina and desire, use this pass for UNLIMITED travel on the Trenitalia regionale trains for the time period selected (3 or 5 consecutive days) to simply tour Italy's hinterland by train without stopping to visit cities, but rather connecting between regionale trains as part of a geographically extensive itinerary involving many hours of train travel.

• Cocktails and live music 16:12
• Borghese gallery- Tickets for May mid - not open yet ? 15:05
• Urgent - Tickets to Vatican - am getting it on site 14:35
• New Notice on Parco Archeologico Del Colosseo Website 14:19
• sights to see and absorb Trastevere 13:58
• Child tickets for Colosseum 13:01
• May 1st Colosseum is Opem 12:57
• Non tourist neighborhoods to visit that are safe? 12:07
• FCO airport to Santa Marinella 09:51
• Pantheon tickets 06:25
• Which 2 restaurants? 06:17
• Souvenir shopping yesterday
• Taxi from Fiumicino BnB to FCO Airport yesterday
• Water flows again at Caracalla yesterday
• What is the best location to stay in Rome? 8 replies
• Rome - Best Area To Stay 3 replies
• Transportation from Rome to Venice 459 replies
• Temperature in Rome in mid May? 10 replies
• Beaches in/near Rome 3 replies
• Colosseum Tickets 335 replies
• Roma Pass- Is it Worth Buying? 504 replies
• April Weather 4 replies
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Rome Hotels and Places to Stay

• When to go to Rome
• Money matters in Rome
• Getting around Rome
• Crime and safety in Rome, including helpful tips
• Special free events in Rome
• Renting an apartment in Rome
• List of licensed private guides for Rome and the Lazio region
• Day trips from Rome, including Naples/Pompeii, Florence, and beaches
• General information about train travel in Italy
• General Italy travel tips