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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 April 17, 2024

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.

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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.

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Roaming Rome: 15 Epic Walking Expeditions to Unearth Hidden Marvels

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Explore the Eternal City’s timeless treasures with the best walking tours in Rome , ensuring you don’t miss any of its delights.

We’ve selected these top picks for their exceptional experiences and expert guides, providing unique insights into the city’s history and culture. More details on each tour can be found in the text. From personalized explorations to fascinating nighttime adventures, our favorite selections ensure an unforgettable journey through Rome’s streets.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• walking tours in Rome

1 – Foodie Walking Tour of Roman Neighborhoods

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 390 reviews )

“Learned so many interesting facts about Rome’s food and history, and loved getting to ask questions to a local (our tour guide) as we walked.” april, get your guide

Gourmetaly food tours in Rome combine an exploration of the city with an introduction to Roman versions of Italian favorites as well as gustatory surprises. You’ll hit Trastevere and other top tourist attractions in Rome , discover some if its rich backstory and happily fill your belly.

Summary of the tour:

• Tour includes neighborhoods of Campo de Fiori, the Jewish Ghetto, and Trastevere
• Stops include markets, bakeries, gelaterias, and restaurants
• Foods you’ll try: fruits and vegetables, gelatos, pizza bianca, mortadella, supplì, codfish, exotic spices
• Children welcome!

With hundreds of five-star reviews, the guides are the tour’s high point followed by the food as a close second. This tour is a wonderful way to begin a vacation in Rome, as it will orient you to the city and exposed you to dishes you may want more of during your stay.

Hot tip: For the foodies, don’t miss our selection of the best food tours in Rome .

2 – Private Kickstart Tour With a Local

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 156 reviews )

“We had a terrific time and the tour was exceptionally planned.” MARK, VIATOR

“Kickoff” tours are aptly named. Intended to introduce you to Rome on your first day, these tours are brimming with facts, tips and fun. Withlocals tours’s private reservation can be whatever you like. Customize the tour to your interests, or trust the guide to show you the best sites in town. Leave with advice to make your stay in Rome unforgettable.

• Highlights included: Campo de’Fiori market, Trastevere neighborhood, and Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
• Private Tour – only you and your local guide
• Children welcome.

This tour has earned over 90% five-star reviews. Highlights are well-read and kind guides, the customizable itinerary and the helpful orientation to the city. The price is also very reasonable for a private jaunt.

3 – Rome by Night – Legends & Criminal Stories

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 955 reviews )

“Excellent host and such an interesting tour!! Got to hear some interesting stories about the legends and ghosts of Rome!” ANDREA, viator

With Rome’s past spanning millennia, the city has had plenty of time to be marred by tragedy, evil and crime. On a City Wonders “Legends and Criminal Stories” walking tour, you’ll hear the darker side of some of the city’s most celebrated places. Even skeptics will be entranced by the guide’s deft storytelling and fascinating legends.

• Stops on this tour include: Campo de’ Fiori, Via Giulia, Via del governo Vecchio, Via del governo Vecchio, Piazza Farnese, Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo all illuminated at night
• Wander down winding alleyways with an expert guide and hear terrifying tales of myth and legend
• Learn of the Corte Savella Prison, where late-Renaissance noblewoman Beatrice Cenci was unfairly put to death in the 16th century

Among the many five-star reviews, our compliments go to the engaging guides as well as how they keep the material appropriate for older children.

4 – Trevi Fountain & Piazza Navona

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1520 reviews )

“Loved every minute of the experience! Good job guys” diana, headout

Kick off your stay in Rome with an affordable guided tour to some of the city’s top attractions as well as some locals’ secrets. Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, marvel at the Parthenon’s layers of history, and snap the perfect selfie at the Spanish steps. Guided walking tours with Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona set you up for a great stay in Rome.

• Sights: Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon
• A gelato in summer / a hot chocolate or cappuccino in winter
• Audio headsets included
• Children of all ages welcome

The guided walking tour with Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona is a crowd-pleaser that hits the top spots in Rome. This economical tour regularly earns high ratings, citing the price and simplicity of accessing tickets via the Headout app and the quality of the guide.

5 – Rome Night Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 5544 reviews )

“Was a fantastic way to see the city all lit up. I didn’t expect such a great guide who gave us so much interesting and informative history and insights.” anne, civitatis

The golden glow of lights on ancient stone morphs busy Rome into a magical realm once the sun sets. Visitando Italia has crafted an enchanting tour of Rome after sunset that mixes walking and minibus travel. Take in Rome’s unmissable landmarks paired with your guide’s commentary that enriches what you encounter, all illuminated against the night sky.

• Stops included: The Vatican, Piazza Venezia, Piazza del Campidoglio and Piazza Navona
• The tour will be in a closed-top minibus
• English–speaking guide

The beauty of the sites, the informative and affable guides and the convenience of both the minibus and the booking process earn this tour high reviews. We recommend this tour for people who want to see more of the city in a short period of time.

Read more: Unusual Rome Night Tours

6 – Fountains and Squares

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 330 reviews )

“Very good tour, my tour guide was an awesome bloke! He made Rome more amazing then what it already is and ended up having a beer !” jordan, get your guide

Roman Holiday Travel and Tours has put together an excursion to the city’s best-loved piazzas and fountains. You won’t be zipping around Rome on a scooter driven by Gregory Peck. However, your Roman holiday is sure to be filled with beauty and history with the help of a Fountains and Squares small-group walking tour.

There are plentiful reasons to choose this tour, from small group sizes to the selection of sites you’ll visit. The prime feature of this five-star tour are the guides. Their knowledge and enthusiasm make the tour come alive.

7 – Walking Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 684 reviews )

“We enjoyed this tour! The food was plentiful! We especially loved the pizza, suppli, and pasta!” gillian, Viator

Rome walking food tours with secret food escort you to the city’s must-see attractions with delicious pauses for carefully-selected Roman dishes. Wander the well-trodden lanes between the Campo de’ Fiori, the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere, some of Rome’s most picturesque neighborhoods that also serve up the city’s most delectable foods.

• Foods you’ll try: 3 different types of homemade Pizza, Supplí, Italian cheeses, Cannoli, gelato, 2 Roman pastas, delicious secret dish, espresso or cappuccino, finest Italian wines, water and non-alcoholic options
• neighborhoods include Trastevere, Jewish ghetto, and Campo de’ Fiori

The guides for Rome walking food tours receive praises for their personality, knowledge and service. They’ve even been lauded as the best part of the trip! Other five-star-worthy points are the itinerary and the quality of the food.

Read more: Best food tours in Rome

8 – Private Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 247 reviews )

“Exciting from the beginning to the end. The guide has transmitted in an excellent and profound way at the same time, from the most hidden detail to the one that gave it all its symbolic splendor.” emilio, civitatis

Private tours in Rome may seem like a costly indulgence, but they can be surprisingly affordable. With Rome Bites Tours, even couples or groups of up to 25 people can enjoy quality service at a reasonable price. Explore baroque buildings, medieval quarters, and relics from the Roman Empire with a knowledgeable guide who enhances each stop with fascinating facts.

• Stops along the tour: Piazza di Spagna + Spanish steps, Trevi Fountain, Agrippa’s Pantheon, Piazza Navona + Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi
• Private guide and possiblility to modify the itinerary

Over 95% of the reviews for this private tour rewarded it four or five stars. Guides are passionate, well-informed and kind, and you will come away with much more information than you would if you travel to the sites without a guide.

9 – Angels and Demons Tour with Private Transport

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1064 reviews )

“This was such a fun tour! (…) Highly recommend it to anyone who is a Dan Brown fan” cindy, viator

“Angels and Demons” tours in Rome are a unique twist on a typical city walking tour. There are plenty of visits to memorable sites and facts to add depth to what you observe. What sets this City Wonders Ltd tour apart is the addition of sites made famous in Dan Brown’s book and movie. Follow a well-informed guide on a half-day tour to Roman locales featured in both fact and fiction.

• Based on Dan Brown’s novel ‘Angels and Demons’
• Stops include St Peter’s Square, Piazza Navona, and Castel Sant’Angelo
• Admission fee to Castel Sant’Angelo included
• Children welcome

The engaging guides clearly are fans of Dan Brown, and reviewers endorse them for their storytelling and charisma. We recommend reading the book or seeing the movie before embarking on the tour.

10 – Free Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 1562 reviews )

“The activity was very complete, our guide explained everything with details and anecdotes. We had a very good time!” LAURA, CIVITATIS

The word “free” makes a lot of things more attractive. Add it to a walking tour of Rome led by true aficionados and you can’t go wrong. Rome Bites Tours has created a free walking tour to places no tourist wants to pass over.

Passionate guides have a staggering amount of information to share. The inclusion of headsets to make sure you don’t miss one tidbit given by your guide makes it hard to believe this is a free tour.

• Stops included: Piazza di Spagna, Trevi Fountain, Agrippa’s Pantheon, Piazza Navona.
• Headphones for participants over 10 years old.
• Children welcome but must be accompanied by a parent.

Rome Bites free walking tours consistently earn high reviews for their likable guides and ample information about the sites. We recommend taking this fact-filled tour in the cooler seasons for a more pleasant walk.

11 – Best of Rome Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 347 reviews )

“Fantastic tour, super information, great host, really friendly and knowledgeable.” simon, viator

Seize that first day in the city on a Carpe Diem Best of Rome tour. In just two hours, get a feel for Rome’s layout, its countless monuments and buzzing piazzas. This affordable tour will set you up for a stay in Rome that’s filled with everything you want to witness and more.

• Stops on this tour include: Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Trajan’s Baths and Piazza Navona.
• Time spent at each stop: 20-30 minutes.
• Children of all ages welcome!

Along with hundreds of five-star reviews, there are many reasons why this tour stands out among others. The cost, accessibility and route make it an attractive option. This is one of the only Rome tours that takes you inside the Pantheon.

12 – Jewish Ghetto

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 154 reviews )

“This was a very very inspirational tour. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and was able to tell the story of the Jewish people who lived in this area.” BONNIE, GET YOUR GUIDE

While Rome is famous for relics of the Roman Empire, its Jewish Quarter, or “Jewish Ghetto,” offers a captivating alternative. With a history spanning millennia, this neighborhood boasts both ancient antiquities and rich Jewish heritage. Roman Vacations’ tours provide an in-depth exploration of the quarter, covering historic sites, cultural gems, and the tantalizing food scene.

• Explore architecture and neighborhoods from 2000 years ago.
• Includes headset and gelato or coffee
• Tours will proceed in all weather conditions

Rome Jewish Ghetto tours receive rave reviews for the knowledge and enthusiastic guides. Guides help make the tour inspirational despite the heaviness of the topic, and the gelato is a refreshing pick-me-up between sites!

13 – Domus Aurea

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 369 reviews )

“Exceptional tour and our guide was amazing and really knowledgeable. Highly recommend!” dace eva, get your guide

Experience the opulence of Emperor Nero’s “Domus Aurea,” or “Golden House,” a nearly 2,000-year-old pleasure palace adorned with frescoes, baths, marble walls, and a rotating dining room. Book a guided tour through Ticketstation Srl to explore this historic site and imagine the golden and gem-encrusted decor amidst rich wildlife, trees, and vineyards, vividly depicted by your archaeologist guide.

• Explore Domus Aurea, the sumptuous home built at the behest of Roman Emperor Nero
• Learn about its colorful history with an official guide
• See intricate frescos and marble walls
• 3D viewers, which will allow you to clearly see how the Domus was in the past.

The plethora of five-star reviews tout the information given by the guides as well as their engaging personalities. The video and 3D viewing will prep you to explore the structures and ruins, and the Domus’s cool interior temperatures are a lovely perk on hot summer days!

14 – Rome by Night Private Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 168 reviews )

“We family of 4 have now been doing 4 tours in Rome. The other tours have also been good, though this was THE BEST.” jostein, viator

There are so many benefits to taking a private tour, especially if it’s affordable! Add the entrancing look that Rome takes on after sunset, and you have a winning combination. Rome by Night private walking tours by Rome Guides take you to the city’s most significant spots in the comfort of the company you choose.

• Stops on this tour include: Roman Forum, Foro di Traiano, Piazza del Campidoglio, Area Sacra di Largo Argentina, Pantheon, Piazza Navona
• Beat the crowds and discover Rome’s quiet and illuminated side

This stellar tour is led by skillful guides who engage all participants in the group, including more reluctant members. Guides happily provide advice for dining and sightseeing after the tour. We recommend this tour for people who want to escape the crowds of the daytime and summer heat.

15 – City Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 193 reviews )

“Tour guide was excellent, knew his history from ancient to modern. Perfect way to start a trip to Rome!” steven, get your guide

With Rome’s twisty streets and tourist masses, finding your way around the city can be daunting. Hiring a guide for an affordable tour can save you a lot of stress and headache. Rome city walking tours by Carpe Diem Tours offer a lot of variety. Book a morning, evening or night group tour, or opt for a private outing.

• Guided walking tour of Rome’s city center
• Learn about the history of Rome from the glory days of the Roman Empire through to today.

If you’re starting out your visit to Rome and need to get the lay of the land, this is an optimal tour for you. We praise this tour for its guides and how helpful the tour is in orienting visitors to Rome. Another plus is the affordability of the tour.

How to book walking tours in Rome?

Whether you want to hit the major sites in Rome or you want a more off-beat outing, there are a wealth of tours to sift through. There are a hefty number of travel websites available to help you with your search.

Use our search engine to simplify your search with a curated list of some of Rome’s highest-rated walking tours.

Semi-Private Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Enjoy a premium and exclusive tour of the raphael rooms, st.peter's basilica, and more.

Don't let the long ticket line and huge crowds ruin your trip to Rome! Thanks to our close relationship with the Holy See, this nearly private tour gives you a more peaceful and unique Vatican experience. Along with only a few other guests you'll skip the admission line with an expert tour guide! With your passionate guide you'll enjoy a closer view of the incredible artwork and architecture you'll find in the Vatican Galleries, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.

• Meet your guide outside Caffé Vaticano
• Vatican Museums
• Pinecone Courtyard
• Gallery of Candelabra
• Hall of Maps
• Gallery of Tapestries
• Raphael Rooms
• School of Athens
• Sistine Chapel
• The Last Judgement
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• Michelangelo's Pietá
• Bernini's Baldacchino
• End inside the St. Peter's Basilica

You'll meet your local guide at the top of the stairs near Caffé Vaticano, just across from the Vatican Museums entrance. You'll enter the Vatican without waiting in the individual ticket line, so you can enjoy seeing the amazing collection of art without feeling overcrowded. Your super-knowledgeable Vatican guide will show you the best of the galleries and notable areas, including the Raphael Rooms and Borgia Apartments, and tell fascinating stories of Vatican history. Finally, you'll explore the Vatican's two most iconic attractions—St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

Semi-Private Vatican Tour Description

Your 3-hour Vatican tour includes:

Skip-the-line entry to the Vatican

Pio-Clementino Museum, Gallery of the Candelabra, Tapestries, and Maps

Raphael Rooms and School of Athens

Entry to the Sistine Chapel

Entry to St. Peter's Basilica

A professional, English-speaking guide

Maximum group size of 10

Pio-Clementino Museum and Nero’s Bathtub

Your guide will take you to the Pio-Clementino Museum where you'll see three of the most iconic statues in the world. Learn about the myths and legends associated with the Apollo Belvedere , Laocoön and His Sons , and the Belvedere Torso . You'll also visit one of the biggest and oldest bathtubs you'll ever see, made from rare red marble for Emperor Nero to relax in.

The Best Galleries at the Vatican

Your guide will lead you on through the Vatican Museums, visiting the Candelabra Gallery, Gallery of the Tapestries, and Gallery of Maps. Admire the ancient Roman and Greek statues, the Flemish tapestries created by Raphael's students, and the gorgeous topographical depictions of Italy.

At the height of the Roman Empire, pontiffs rarely left Rome. In order to understand the Italian peninsula without endangering his life, Pope Gregory XIII commissioned 40 giant, meticulous maps to be created for his use. Most of these maps measure more than 15 by 16 feet, and the end result is nothing short of spectacular.

You'll hear the stories behind these treasures from your expert guide as the Vatican secrets are slowly unveiled to you.

Raphael Rooms and The School of Athens

Raphael is the epitome of a Renaissance artist. In the period of European civilization immediately following the Middle Ages, a great period of revival in art, literature, and thought occurred. Raphael encompassed the ideals of a Renaissance man and frescoed multiple rooms inside of the Vatican Museums. Among other masterpieces, see one of Raphael’s most famous works of art, The School of Athens .

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel

One of the top things to do in Vatican City is visit the Sistine Chapel. Speaking is not allowed in the chapel since it's a sacred space, so your guide will explain what you'll see before entering and give you a handy guide for reference.

Only when you are inside is it clear why the Sistine Chapel is one of the most celebrated works of art in Western civilization. Michelangelo painted more than 600 figures in all, and the sheer magnitude of his endeavor is mind-blowing.. As one of Michelangelo’s most prized masterpieces, the Sistine Chapel also serves as a gathering place for cardinals of the Catholic Church.

Please note that the Sistine Chapel is a sacred place, so both men and women must cover their knees and shoulders, otherwise, you may be refused entry to a portion of your Vatican tour. We understand the summers in Rome are hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/sweater to wrap around you when necessary.

St. Peter's Basilica

Your final stop on this tour is St. Peter's Basilica, so follow your guide through the special corridor reserved for groups to access the basilica quickly. Here you'll get to see the Vatican's prized church where the remains of St. Peter himself are presumed to be buried. Your guide will introduce you to the cathedral before you enter to explore on your own, and you can stay for as long as you like. Admire Michelangelo's La Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino as you gaze at the amazing architecture and art in the basilica.

Please note that St. Peter's Basilica is closed on Wednesdays for the Papal Audience and can occasionally experience other unexpected closures. If this happens, your guide will make up the time at other areas within the Vatican.

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What you get with this tour

See what people are saying

1120 total reviews

Fantastic day at the Vatican!

Wow! Wow! Wow! This would not have been possible without the amazing guide that we had. Ileana was so passionate about the history behind everything! I felt like she was my private guide. So knowledgeable and so dedicated to her passion. I will use The Tour Guy for as many tours as I can in the future! 10 out of 10 recommend!!

Sara was the best guide ever!

Loved this semi-private tour with Sara. As well as being so informed, she has a wonderful sense of humour. We loved that there was only 6 of us as well. Great tour, great group, great experience and best guide to do it all with.

show more reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

In addition to wearing or bringing clothing that covers your knees and shoulders, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. You're also welcome to bring a water bottle as it can get hot inside the Vatican during the summer months.

Is there a way to see the Vatican without a guided tour?

Yes, it's possible, though you may find the experience lacking without a guide to explain the stories behind the things you'll see. But you can click here for skip the line Vatican tickets .

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

If you have any doubts about your mobility, we suggest taking a private Vatican tour so your needs can be better accommodated.

Does the Vatican ever experience sudden closures?

During state visits or special religious events, parts of the Vatican may be closed unexpectedly and without much notice. If an area normally visited during a tour is suddenly closed, our guide will still provide explanations of the closed areas from outside. They will even show you another gallery to compensate for the lost time in the usual location.

Does this tour really skip the line?

Yes! Your guide will escort you past the long general admission line to the shorter line for groups. Then you'll enter the Vatican before the general public.

Does this tour always include St. Peter's Basilica entry?

St. Peter's Basilica is always closed on Wednesday mornings for the weekly papal audience. If you book a tour on Wednesday, your guide will make up the time in other fascinating areas of the Vatican.

In addition to wearing or bringing clothing that covers your knees and shoulders, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. You're also welcome to bring a water bottle as it can get hot inside the Vatican during the summer months.

Is photography allowed in the Sistine Chapel?

No, the Vatican requests that no photos or videos be taken inside the Sistine Chapel.

Is there a dress code to enter the religious sites on this tour?

We ask both men and women to cover knees and shoulders, otherwise the Vatican might refuse entry to religious sites and you’ll miss out on a portion of your tour. We understand the summers in Rome can be hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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The 5 Best Rome Colosseum Tours With Skip-the-Line Access

A s the most enduring symbol of the Roman Empire and one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Colosseum receives more than 6 million visitors per year, so it's not easy to escape the crowds. A visit is worth it, though, if you want to see the world's largest amphitheater – once known as the Flavian Amphitheater – and try to imagine what it would have been like 2,000 years ago.

A standard ticket to the Colosseum also includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, so many (but not all) tours also include those ancient sites. Inside the ancient complex, there is very little signage explaining what you're looking at. A good guide will not only get you skip-the-line access but also bring these incredible places to life. Keep in mind that most Colosseum tours only give you access to the arena floor and upper level. If you want to visit the underground hypogeum, you need to make sure it's included in the tour.

Crown Tours: Skip the line Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum tour

Price: Adults from $84; kids from $67

Duration: 3 hours

Standout perk: Engaging guides speak several languages.

Selected by GetYourGuide as a Certified Experience, this group tour starts at the Colosseum, then takes you to the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Groups consist of up to 30 people, and tourgoers are given headsets so they can better hear and follow the guide. The tour meets at Largo Gaetana Agnesi on the hill overlooking the Colosseum about 30 minutes before the official entry time to get everyone checked in and set up with headsets. The guide then leads participants into the Colosseum and up to the second level, where there's a chance to stop and take photos. On the way back down, there's another photo-op at the arena level before the guide leads the group over to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum.

Crown Tours also offers guided tours of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica, as well as the Borghese Gallery, Pantheon and other sites.

Local tip: This tour is offered over a variety of time slots every day. Pick one of the earlier time slots to make sure you'll finish up by lunchtime.

Check prices & availability on:

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Through Eternity Tours: Ultimate Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $95

Standout perk: This tour includes the Palatine Hill, which some tours skip.

Recent visitors praise the knowledgeable guides for their passion about ancient history and keeping the tour moving while explaining everything in detail. This tour starts at 9:30 a.m. seven days a week and finishes up around lunchtime. In addition to the Colosseum, highlights include the Via Sacra and the House of the Vestal Virgins in the Roman Forum, as well as the Farnese Gardens on the Palatine Hill.

This tour starts at 9:15 a.m. daily. Groups are limited to 10 people; if six or more people are taking the tour, the guide gives out headsets so everyone can hear. Participants are asked to meet 10 minutes before the start time in front of Cafe/Restaurant Angelino ai Fori on Largo Corrado Ricci. The tour is stroller-accessible, but not wheelchair-accessible. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle, especially on hot days.

Through Eternity Tours offers a variety of group and private tours of Rome and other destinations, including Florence , Naples and Pompeii.

Local tip: Book a table at the nearby Taverna dei Fori Imperiali to enjoy a leisurely lunch after the tour.

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360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

LivTours: The Best of Colosseum & Ancient Rome With Exclusive Arena Access

Price: Adults from $163; kids from $145

Standout perk: Virtual reality headsets show what the ancient sites would have looked like.

Recent tourgoers praise the guides on this tour for bringing the facts and stories about ancient Rome to life. Along with the confirmation email, participants receive an invitation to download an app. During the tour, the guide gives everyone a cardboard virtual reality headset that works with the app and shows a reconstruction of the Colosseum and the surrounding valley. After visiting the Colosseum, the tour continues to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, where the virtual reality headsets show you a reconstruction of the Circus Maximus and the structures in the Roman Forum. At all the sites, you get skip-the-line access.

These semiprivate tours are guaranteed to have no more than six people, making them a more personalized experience than other group tours. However, because the tours are small, the guides don't use headsets, and some participants noted that it can be difficult to hear the guide over the noise in the Colosseum.

Local tip: You can get some great photos from the upper level, especially if you stand at the apex of the oval.

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Roma Experience: Private Colosseum Tour With Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Price: From $531

Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes

Standout perk: See these ancient sites with an archaeologist who dug at the Roman Forum.

For a deeper understanding (no pun intended) of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, a tour with Elisa Valeria Bove, CEO of Roma Experience, is one of the best you can buy. She studied archaeology and has been involved in excavations at the Roman Forum and other sites, so she's just the person to guide you if you want to get beyond the surface level. Her private tours range from just under three hours for a skip-the-line Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tour to the full-day "See Rome in One Day" tour, which also includes a guided visit of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Be sure to specify if you want to visit the hypogeum when you book.

Roma Experience organizes bespoke private tours throughout Italy, including multiday itineraries. Bove will work with you to customize your experience and bring you to places you wouldn't think to visit, like Quintili's Villa on the ancient Appian Way.

Local tip: If you want to see another incredible archaeological park, let Bove take you to Ostia Antica, less than an hour from Rome.

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Imago Artis Travel: Timeless Tales of Gods and Laymen of the Ancient Rome

Price: On request

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: This tour includes the Pantheon in addition to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Founded by three art historians with a passion for Roman art and history, Imago Artis Travel offers bespoke private tours of Rome and beyond. Imago Artis works closely with their clients to craft personalized itineraries that highlight the city's most incredible monuments and hidden gems. This tour lasts a half-day and includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Pantheon, with an optional stop for espresso, but you can customize the itinerary to do a full-day tour or multiday itinerary.

Other itineraries that include the Colosseum bring visitors to the Basilica of San Clemente, known as the "lasagna church" because it was built in layers: The deeper you descend, the further back in time you go. Imago Artis also grants visitors exclusive access to off-limits places, such as a church overlooking the Roman Forum. The company also organizes multiday itineraries throughout Italy.

Local tip: There's an element of surprise and delight with Imago Artis that's hard to find elsewhere, especially if your guide is Fulvio De Bonis, one of the company's founders.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura Itzkowitz is a Rome-based freelance journalist who thinks about the Roman Empire all the time. She has visited the Colosseum in the morning, in the evening after the crowds have left, on group tours and private tours. To curate this list of the best Colosseum tours, she used her own experience as well as her research expertise, culling tips from locals and visitors.

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