are private tours in rome worth it

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Italy Travel Experts Tours and Vacations

Best PRIVATE TOURS To Do in ROME in 2024 + WHY

Sean Finelli Last Updated: January 8, 2024

When you travel to a world-class destination like Rome, you’ll likely have to share the top sights with crowds of people. You’re still going to want to visit the Vatican, Colosseum, and other attractions in Rome, so how can you avoid being shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers all the time ? Beat the crowds and see more in these best private tours in Rome.

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to Rome? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you need it. See our guide to Rome  for more planning resources, our  best private Rome tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to see Rome in a day .

The Absolute BEST Private Tours To Take in Rome

Looking for a more intimate and, quite frankly, better experience of Rome? Try taking private tours in Rome . They offer a lot of benefits! You’ll often get exclusive access, personal attention, and custom options, so you can see what you want with who you want.

Your guide will give you a more personal experience and you’ll get to have more input in the narrative. Want to interrupt and ask a question? Go ahead, it’s your tour and you’re in control.

The obvious downside is that private tours cost more than small-group tours. With that in mind, we’ll be sure to let you know when a small-group tour might be a good alternative to save money throughout this article. Here are the best private tours in Rome.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if Rome tours are worth it .

1. Private Vatican Tours

The Vatican is a great place to take a private tour because it’s almost always crowded. Beyond that, it’s a massive complex with a high concentration of high-art Renaissance works, which makes it a really interesting discussion with the right guide. We have a great list of private Vatican tours that will appeal to every traveler.

Vatican Uncovered: A Private, Detailed Tour

For anyone wanting to deep-dive into art and history, go on an immersive journey in our private full-day tour with visits to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. This 5-hour tour takes you through the best and off-the-beaten-path Vatican galleries, giving you a detailed look into the museum’s immense collection. You’ll see more than most who visit the Vatican!

The Quickest Early Access Private Vatican Tour

For a group wanting to see the highlights of the museum with some light commentary, this private tour with visits to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. This 2.5-hour tour gets you into the Vatican Museums before the general public, so you can enjoy the best of the Vatican with fewer crowds.

Private After Hours Vatican Tour

For the most exclusive experience of the Vatican possible, our after-hours private tour gets you into the museum without any other visitors. You’ve probably heard about how crowded the Sistine Chapel gets. In this private tour, you’ll have the rare experience of seeing the Sistine Chapel exclusively with your group. If you are interested, we recommend contacting us 6 months in advance minimum.

Small Group Vatican Tours

If you have a lower budget but still want to be spared the majority of the crowds, we also have some small-group Vatican tours that offer access before and after opening hours. These Vatican tours generally have the best access at the lowest cost:

• Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel (earliest entrance)
• Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel (start times all day)
• Vatican Night Tour with Sistine Chapel

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Vatican tour is worth it .

2. Private Colosseum Tours

Admittedly, we only have one private Colosseum tour and that’s because our small-group tours are so great. Most of our small-group tours visit restricted areas of the Colosseum, which means you’ll see more of this iconic monument and enjoy less-crowded areas.

Private Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

Our private Colosseum tour gets you access to the Arena Floor—a restricted area and one of my personal favorite parts of visiting the Colosseum in Rome. In this 3-hour tour, you’ll walk through the infamous Gladiator’s Gate out onto the Arena Floor where many gladiators battled it out in ancient Rome. After seeing the Colosseum, you’ll also go on a guided exploration of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Private Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

We also run a great private tour that combines the Colosseum, the Vatican, and other parts of the city center. Our private Rome in a Day tour is a great option for anyone happy to spend a whole day sightseeing with a dedicated expert guide.

Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

For a truly exclusive experience of the Colosseum, consider our Colosseum Underground tour . It gets you Arena Floor access and visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. What makes this 3.5-hour tour our most exclusive Colosseum tour is its access to the Hypogeum or underground tunnels. This is where gladiators, wild animals, and the condemned awaited their fate.

The area is an active archaeological site with extremely limited access, so it’s best to book this tour well in advance. The group size is a little larger. However, due to the exclusivity of this product, we get 99% positive feedback—which is the best you can get in this day and age! I also really like our Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor tour for its access to some restricted areas and low cost.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out why a Colosseum tour is worth it .

3. Private Borghese Gallery Tours

The Borghese Gallery is a truly one-of-a-kind museum that should be high up on anyone’s list. It’s a must-see for art lovers, and even if you’re not an art aficionado, this gallery will rope you into our circle.

It’s one of the greatest baroque galleries on Earth headlined by Gian Lorenzo Bernini (sculptor) and Caravaggio (painter). Baroque, if you’re unfamiliar, is a style of art that is guided by passion, strong movement, and heavy narrative, making it easy to love.

In our private Borghese Gallery tour , you’ll see the top works of art in the gallery with a passionate guide. The tour lasts 2 hours as the museum only allows people to enter for 2 hours at a time. Not only is a private tour of the Borghese Gallery a must but it’s also reasonably priced for what you get—the tour has amazing reviews!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Borghese Gallery Guide for more info.

4. Private Rome To Pompeii Tours

Despite the 2.5-hour drive from Rome, Pompeii is quite often at the top of most travelers’ lists when visiting the Eternal City. This is because Pompeii is without question the best-preserved archeological site on our planet. The way it was “flash frozen” by volcanic ash has given us tremendous insight into Roman civilization, making it a big bucket-list item.

That said, is it worth taking a private tour to Pompeii? We run both private-tour options that allow you to be in your own vehicle and small-group tour options that travel to Pompeii in a smaller bus. If money is no issue to you, then a private tour is likely the best way to go.

However, our small group tours offer tremendous value and it might be worth having the company of other travelers on your way down to Pompeii. The prices are vastly different. Check out all our Pompeii tour options from Rome to see for yourself.

Private Rome to Pompeii Day Trip Options

If you want to go the private tour route, consider our private Rome to Pompeii day trip with Mt. Vesuvius . Is there a better way to cap off your tour of the incredible Pompeii than a hike up the volcano responsible for the ruins we explore today?

Fancy the idea of ending your Pompeii private tour in a lovely coastal town with Amalfi-Coast vibes? Consider our private Rome to Pompeii day trip with Sorrento .

For the small-group tour option, you could take a Rome to Pompeii day trip with Sorrento . This is a more budget-friendly way to see Pompeii and get an afternoon free to spend in Sorrento.

Definitely consider doing our Rome to Pompeii day trip with Mt Vesuvius—it’s quite the experience. You literally climb up Mt. Vesuvius to look into the crater of the mountain with a volcanologist!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Pompeii day trip from Rome is worth it .

5. Private Rome Catacombs Tours

During the Roman Empire, there was a very important rule. You could not leave dead bodies within the city limits for any extended period of time. This made a lot of sense since the plague caused a great deal of death and dead bodies spread all types of diseases and bacteria.

For this reason, Christians started underground burial sites outside the Roman walls, which today we refer to as the catacombs. The Rome Catacombs could have been the final burial place for hundreds of thousands of bodies. They are extremely interesting to visit!

We run private Catacombs tours and small group tours, both of which visit the Catacomb of Domitilla, the Appian Way, and the Bone Crypt of the Capuchin Monks. It may seem dark at first, but there’s an unexpected beauty to the crypts and the artful arrangement of hundreds of skeletons.

Both are great options. The Catacombs Private Tour in Rome obviously offers a lot of customization and privacy as always with a higher price. The great part about the small group Rome Catacombs tour is the low price and small group size relative to other tours.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Rome Catacombs tour is worth it .

Where To Stay in Rome

Rome has a rich cultural history and many iconic landmarks to explore. Plan where to stay in the magnificent Eternal City in the best neighborhoods.

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30 BEST Rome Private Tours (selected by an Italian)

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: October 5, 2023

Categories Europe , Italy

If you’re visiting the enchanting Eternal City with your family or group of friends, you ought to read this list of the very best Rome private tours. Everything from half-day visits to day trips is included. Check it out!

Rome is a city filled with history, culture, and amazing art. Being the capital city of Italy and the center of the Roman Empire, it’s undoubtedly one of the most historical cities in the world. 

When visiting the Eternal City, there are many attractions and nearby locations that you simply cannot miss. From well-known landmarks to hidden gems and astounding secrets, it has a lot to offer its visitors – whether you’re spending 3 days in Rome , a whole week, or just 24 hours.

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the absolute best Rome private tours that will help you explore this fascinating city with your favorite people. 

Discover the major spots at your own pace, and get all your questions answered by a local guide as you stand in awe at the Colosseum, wander around Vatican City, and revisit the past at the various ruins of the Empire. You’ll also uncover places that most people don’t even know about!

This selection of 30 private tours in Rome will show you the real heart of the city, giving you a chance to feel its magic like never before. Check them out!

👉 Why trust my picks? Born and bred in nearby Bologna, I’ve always felt a deep connection to Italy’s historic capital. Having roamed Rome’s ancient streets and marveled at its landmarks countless times, I truly understand the city’s unique charm. With a decade of experience under my belt, I carefully select tours that offer a personal and insightful dive into Rome’s rich history, ensuring an intimate and memorable experience.

I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy, which allows you to cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. 

Table of Contents

The Most Comprehensive Private Tours of Rome 

▶️ Unleash your inner explorer as you conquer Rome’s must-see wonders with this All Rome 1 Day Tour – Luxury Car, Entrance Tickets, and Lunch Included . Immerse yourself in the past with visits to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Marvel at the Trevi Fountain’s splendor and throw a coin for good luck, climb up the Spanish Steps, and admire the Pantheon’s architectural marvel, all the while learning about the history and significance of these locations.  

Get ready to soak in the vibrant ambiance of Piazza Navona, and make a trip to the Vatican. There you’ll explore the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel and the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, plus visit the Vatican Museums’ art-laden halls, finding masterpieces by Michelangelo and other Italian greats. This tour includes priority access, a private guide, and a delicious Roman lunch.

⚠️ Please note that the Vatican is closed on Sundays. 

📝 This private tour of Rome and the Vatican includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, transfers, a Rome private guide, all entrance fees, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Experience the best of Rome during an action-packed half-day with this 4 Hours Guided Private Tour of Rome with Pickup in 8 seater Mercedes minivan . Hop aboard a swanky minivan to visit the city’s most important landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the breathtaking Gianicolo Terrace, and the Knights of Malta Square, which offers unique views of St. Peter’s Basilica. 

Throw a coin into the famous Trevi Fountain, and climb the majestic Spanish Steps with your very own guide and up to 7 friends. Discover the modern yet Roman-style beauty of the Complesso del Vittoriano, and peer through the mysterious “Keyhole” at Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta. Conclude with a taste of authentic local life in the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood! 

📝 This private guided tour of Rome includes : Roundtrip transportation, and a private guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Indulge in the enchanting allure of Rome as the sun sets on this Charming VIP Rome By Night Experience . Relax in an elegant Mercedes-Benz vehicle as your driver regales you with captivating tales of the city’s history and architecture, and takes you to all the best spots. 

Admire the Colosseum’s grandeur, and feel the ancient spirit at Circus Maximus, while marveling at the illuminated Roman ruins and wandering through timeless Palatine Hill remnants. Capture the magic of the Pantheon and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, all in the mesmerizing lights of the city after dusk. 

📝 This Rome VIP tour includes : All transfers, and an English-speaking driver. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Colosseum Tours in Rome

▶️ Discover the wonders of the Eternal City without wasting time in long queues with a Private tour of the Colosseum in Rome and Roman Forum . Start by exploring the famous Colosseum with skip-the-line tickets, and hear tales of the gladiator games and wild beast fights that took place there.

Then, wander through the Roman Forum to uncover the secrets of ancient Roman life. Learn about emperors and admire the Temple of the Vestal Virgins and the Arch of Constantine, which are very well-preserved ruins. During the tour, you’ll also pass by notable sites like Palatine Hill and the Temple of Vesta. Stroll along Piazza del Colosseo and Via dei Fori Imperiali to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of ancient Rome. 

📝 This tour includes : Rome private walking tour, skip-the-line tickets, and hotel pick-up. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ The Colosseum Tour with Arena and Underground allows you to skip the lines at one of the most sought-after attractions in Rome, and explore it in depth. Ascend to the Third Tier for breathtaking views of Rome’s skyline, and head into its underground level for a comprehensive visit. 

You’ll also get to explore the political heart of ancient Rome at the Roman Forum and walk along the historic Via Sacra. Discover the ruins of the Temple of Julius Caesar and the House of the Vestal Virgins before climbing to the top of Capitoline Hill for one of the best vantage points over the Forum.

📝 This tour includes : A private walking tour, hotel pick-up, skip-the-line tickets, and special access to the Colosseum’s underground. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Vatican Private Tours

▶️ Experience the Vatican like a VIP with this Early Bird Vatican Private Tour , which allows you to beat the crowds by getting an early start. You’ll get to see the iconic Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms before they’re open to the general public, getting up close to Michelangelo’s frescoes and the impressive sculptures and paintings that adorn the museum complex. 

Fast-track entry into St. Peter’s Basilica and see treasures like Bernini’s baldacchino altar with a professional guide. If you were looking for private Vatican tours with early morning access, this is the one. 

📝 This Vatican museum private tour includes : Roundtrip transportation, tickets to the Vatican Museums, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Uncover the secrets of the Vatican on an exclusive Private Vatican Museums Tour with Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica . Delve into the world of art and architecture as you explore the Vatican Museums with a knowledgeable guide, and uncover hidden gems like Raphael’s Rooms and the mesmerizing Gallery of Maps. 

Behold the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo’s masterpieces, and then venture to St. Peter’s Basilica to witness the extraordinary La Pietà. Plus , experience Bernini’s optical illusions in St. Peter’s Square. This personalized Vatican tour guarantees an unforgettable journey through history and beauty.

📝 This private tour of Vatican and Sistine Chapel includes : Skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Walking Tours in Rome

▶️ Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Rome Private Tour is the perfect excursion to experience the city like a local. You’ll join your guide for a walking tour that starts in Piazza Navona, and set off on an adventure tailored to your interest. 

Among the highlights you’ll visit is Campo Di Fiori, where you’ll get to taste mouthwatering pizza from the oldest pizzeria in Rome before delving into Roman history at Largo di Torre Argentina. Marvel at the architectural masterpiece of the Pantheon, discover the secrets of Piazza di Pietra and take a break to savor a delicious gelato or refuel with an espresso.  

End the trip with a breathtaking view of Fori Imperiali and the Colosseum from a stunning terrace. This tour combines history, gastronomy, and off-the-beaten-path gems!

📝 This tour includes : A private tour guide in Rome, and food tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Indulge in a romantic Nighttime Private Sightseeing Tour in Rome that will leave you spellbound. You’ll get to zip through the city’s streets in a luxurious limousine or minivan, and witness the iconic landmarks bathed in light, a beautiful new perspective of Rome! 

From the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, you’ll check out the most important attractions in Rome, and capture stunning photos at key stops like the Spanish Steps and St. Peter’s Basilica. Top it off at the spectacular Janiculum Hill, toasting to the breathtaking panoramic views with a glass of sparkling Prosecco.

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off from the city center, and a chauffeured sightseeing tour. A bottle of Prosecco is included upon request. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Rome by Golf Cart Private Tour

Cruise Rome’s streets in style with a Rome by Golf Cart Private Tour , which is tailor-made to suit your interests. Discover the grand palaces, majestic monuments, and magnificent churches that define Italy’s capital. You’ll get to choose the attractions you want to visit, but an example itinerary includes marveling at the Colosseum, passing by the Arch of Constantine, and climbing the Spanish Steps.

You can also choose to peek through the Knights of Malta Keyhole and explore Trastevere’s charming alleys, among various other attractions. This family-friendly sightseeing tour guarantees an unforgettable journey through over 2,500 years of Roman heritage.

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off from the city center, a professional guide, and insurance. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Food and Wine Tours in Rome

▶️ Indulge in an unforgettable gastronomic adventure through Rome with The Award-Winning Private Food Tour of Rome: 6 or 10 Tastings . Immerse yourself in the city’s culinary traditions while discovering fascinating historical insights from your foodie guide, who will take you to the best local eateries and bars. 

Meander through Campo de’ Fiori and the old Jewish Quarter as you sample a tantalizing array of 6 or 10 Roman delicacies, including everything from creamy buffalo mozzarella to heavenly gelato, pizza, cheeses, porchetta, and tiramisu, as well as drinks. This tour goes beyond food, offering a cultural exploration of Rome’s hidden gems and must-see landmarks. 

📝 This tour includes : A local guide, and all tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ During this half-day Wine Tasting in Frascati from Rome you’ll visit a 300-year-old winery in the picturesque countryside. Discover the secrets of wine-making as you tour around the vineyards and cellar, and learn about the rich history and traditions of this ancient art. After the tour, indulge your taste buds with an exquisite wine-tasting experience paired with regional snacks crafted from locally sourced ingredients. 

With convenient transportation included, you’ll get to choose between morning and afternoon departures to suit your schedule. Unwind and savor the luxury of this immersive wine adventure!

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a local guide, wine tasting with snacks, and water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing exploration of Rome’s culinary delights with Drinks, Bites & Views of Rome by Night Private Tour . This delicious activity includes a 3-course gourmet dinner paired with Italian wines, so make sure you go hungry! 

You’ll indulge in a delectable selection of antipasti consisting of pecorino with pear and fig sauce, prosciutto, pepperoni insalata, and bresaola with arugula and parmigiano. Then, choose your favorite traditional pasta for the main course, and finish off with a delicate pastry or refreshing gelato for dessert. 

Get insider tips on the best eateries in Rome, and make new friends over a unique dining experience. Plus, catch glimpses of Santa Maria dei Sette Dolori and explore Piazza San Cosimato! 

📝 This tour includes : A local guide, and all food and drink tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

A Private Cooking Class in Rome

▶️ Join a Private Cooking Class in Rome with Chef Andrea Consoli to unlock the magic of Italian gastronomy. Get your hands dirty as you prepare a complete Italian feast, from delightful appetizers like artichoke and bruschetta to soul-satisfying pasta, succulent meat dishes, and a heavenly tiramisu for dessert. 

You will work with seasonal ingredients, and savor your homemade meal complemented by a selected wine flight. Take home the recipes and relish the flavors of Rome long after the class! 

📝 This tour includes : A private cooking class, a meal, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Bike & Segway Rome Private Excursions

▶️ Hop on this Appian Way, Catacombs and Aqueducts e-Bike Tour to venture through Rome’s Appia Antica, the city’s oldest highway. Uncover captivating locations as you explore the Catacombs of San Callisto, cross the breathtaking Regional Park of Appia Antica, and visit the Aqueducts Park. 

You’ll be accompanied by a local who will ensure you’re not left out on the history and stories of the places, showing you the best spots and telling you all about the city. You can choose between a  3-hour  or a 5-hour tour.

📝 This tour includes : E-bike and helmet rental, a guide, a poncho, a guided visit to the Catacombs or the Aqueducts Park, and a child seat upon request. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Rome: City Highlights Private Electric Bike Tour offers an adventure like no other! Pedal through the Roman streets going off the beaten track and exploring hidden attractions. 

Listen to captivating anecdotes about the Eternal City’s rich history from your guide, and cruise past the Portico of Octavia, the majestic Theater of Marcellus, and other iconic landmarks including the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.

Choose a morning ride for a fresh start or an afternoon tour for a mesmerizing sunset view. With an eco-friendly boost, conquering hills becomes a breeze. 

📝 This tour includes : E-bike and helmet rental, a local guide, a poncho, and a child seat upon request. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Explore the best of the Eternal City on this Private Rome Segway Tour which takes you to iconic landmarks in a breeze. Marvel at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Pantheon as you zip past them, and enjoy beautiful photo stops at locations such as the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona. 

You’ll also get to discover the Jewish Ghetto and visit the magnificent Great Synagogue of Rome. Catch breathtaking views of the Roman Forum from Colle Capitolino, making the most of the tour’s flexibility, and live commentary from your guide. 

📝 This tour includes : Segway and helmet rental, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The Best Private Excursions from Rome

▶️ Escape the hustle of the big city with a Private Tour: Amalfi Coast and Pompeii Day Trip from Rome , embarking on a memorable journey to two amazing, UNESCO-listed sites in Southern Italy. 

Step into the ancient world at Pompeii, where a volcanic eruption froze time in AD 79, and stroll through the well-preserved ruins with a guide. Take in the sights of the ancient food market, temples, houses, and brothels while learning about the history of the city and its inhabitants. 

You’ll then head to the celebrated Amalfi Coast for breathtaking views, delectable cuisine, shopping opportunities in Positano, and a refreshing limoncello tasting. 

📝 This private tour from Rome to Pompeii includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, skip-the-line entrance and a guided tour of Pompeii, a trip assistant, and limoncello tasting in Amalfi Coast. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Get ready to be swept away by the beauty of Tuscany’s cultural treasures with this Private Tour: Florence and Pisa – Full Day from Rome. You’ll be whisked away to the enchanting countryside, traversing the Chianti hills and immersing yourself in the charm of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance.

Behold Michelangelo’s David, among other artistic wonders, at the Accademia Gallery, and stand in awe in front of Brunelleschi’s Dome, besides checking out the city’s most important landmarks. These include Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, and the prime viewpoint Piazzale Michelangelo. 

You’ll then get to admire the iconic Leaning Tower and other marble landmarks in Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa’s major attraction. Access the Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery, and make the most of your guide’s knowledge of the region. 

📝 This private tour from Rome includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a professional guide in Florence, and entrance to the Accademia Gallery, the Pisa Cathedral, and the Baptistery. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Treat yourself to a Private Tuscany Wine Country Day Trip from Rome with Lunch led by a charismatic driver-tour escort. This full-day journey takes you on a spectacular wine odyssey among the rolling hills of Tuscany and its enchanting vineyards. 

You’ll visit the beautiful hilltop towns of Montepulciano, Bagno Vignoni, and Pienza, and then head to the Montalcino wine area where you’ll tour a local winery. Learn all about the process of wine-making from the experts, and indulge in a tasting of Vino di Nobile and Brunello di Montepulciano, two of the region’s top wines. 

The trip includes a second winery visit for even more tastings and a delicious Tuscan lunch. 

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off from the city center, a driver-tour escort, a Tuscan lunch, and wine tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Rome Vespa Tours

▶️ See the city in style with a Vespa Tour By Night , cruising past the major attractions and getting to see them lit up for the evening. Make a stop to marvel at the Colosseum and snap a selfie with the Mouth of Truth. Soak up the ancient atmosphere of Palatine Hill, and feel the adrenaline as you pass by the majestic Circus Maximus. 

The 3-hour trip includes a delicious coffee and gelato break, after which you’ll get to explore Saint Peter’s Square and the enchanting Trevi Fountain. As an experienced guide does the driving, you’ll only need to focus on taking in the glorious views. 

📝 This tour includes : A bike and helmet rental, a driver/guide, gelato, and coffee. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Embark on a memorable adventure with a Rome: Half-Day Vespa Tour with Private Driver , and embody your inner Audrey Hepburn as you zip through the city during your very own Roman holiday. Cruise along narrow streets and charming squares, and pass by the most important landmarks, getting to choose between three tour options.

You can embark on a comprehensive tour around Rome’s major attractions, including the Colosseum and Vatican City; visit off-the-beaten-path, secret locations of the city; or enjoy a romantic night tour of Rome.

This is a Rome private tour with a driver guide, so you only need to worry about enjoying the ride!

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a Vespa tour with a driver, a raincoat, and a gelato/coffee break. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

A Private Vintage Fiat 500 Tour of Rome

Step into the Dolce Vita with a Vintage Fiat 500 Tour of Rome’s Hidden Sights , getting to explore the city’s hidden gems in the most stylish manner. Discover the colossal Caracalla Baths, the stunning Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, and the lovely Parco Savello with a local guide. You’ll also get to stroll in the Garden of the Lovers, and drive through the vibrant streets of Travestere neighborhood. 

Take in Piazzale Garibaldi’s breathtaking panorama and relive the excitement of Circus Maximus, learning about Rome’s ancient history in the process. 

📝 This tour includes : A city tour in a Fiat 500, a driver/guide, and refreshments. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

A Private Catacombs Tour in Rome

Discover one of the most interesting hidden locations with Catacombs of Rome and Ancient Appian Way 3-Hour Tour with Private Driver . Unearth the secrets beneath the city at the Catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano, getting up close to ancient tombs and the captivating artwork from the  Early Christian era. A vast collection of pre-400 AD frescoes, sculptures, and even gold glass medallions await! 

You’ll also get to wander on cobblestone streets and pass under aqueducts along the legendary Appian Way, following the footsteps of the ancient Romans. This will offer you a glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire, and the convenient presence of a private guide will ensure you get all your questions answered. 

📝 This tour includes : Private transportation, a guide, and entrance tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Family-Friendly Private Rome Tours

▶️ Take your children on a trip back in time with this Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour for Kids & Families . Bypass the queues and delve into the heart of ancient Rome – the Colosseum – as a friendly guide captivates your little ones with stories of fearless gladiators and epic battles. 

Afterward, explore the ruins of the Emperors’ Palace at the Roman Forum, being transported to the glory days of the Roman Empire. The tour includes games and trivia to keep children entertained and eager to learn. 

📝 This tour includes : Skip-the-line tickets, and a friendly local guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Ignite your kids’ curiosity and make their Vatican visit an unforgettable treasure hunt with this Vatican for Kids – Private Family Tour . With fast-track admission, you’ll bypass all queues to visit the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. 

A local guide will be there to provide interesting info, and engage the children’s minds with interactive quests, quizzes, and prizes as you explore age-appropriate galleries of the museums. This customized tour caters to your children’s ages and interests, turning into an art-filled adventure that all the family is bound to enjoy. 

📝 This tour includes : A private Vatican tour, a guide, skip-the-line entrance tickets, and a treasure hunt map with prizes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Tour of Galleria Borghese

Embark on a 2-Hour Borghese Gallery Private Tour in Rome to marvel at the masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael – among so many others! – with an art expert as a guide. 

Soak up scandalous tales of looted churches and controversial acquisitions as you wander around the gallery and enjoy an intimate tour with your closest friends. Besides admiring the art pieces, you’ll also get a glimpse into the extravagant world of Cardinal Borghese and the Roman Baroque era. Cap off the experience with the breathtaking views of Rome from the Pincio Terrace. 

📝 This tour includes : Skip-the-line entrance tickets, and a private guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Papal Audience in Rome

Get up close and personal with Pope Francis on this exclusive Papal Audience in Rome Private Tour . With the assistance of a knowledgeable private guide, navigate the crowd and secure a prime spot to experience the Pope’s greetings, blessings, hymns, and homilies. 

Enjoy door-to-door transfers and the company of a guide on this unique opportunity to see the Pope up close. Prebook your tickets in advance, as they’re notoriously hard to come by. 

📝 This tour includes : One-way private transportation, tickets, and a private guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The Best Private Shore Excursion to Rome

Make the most of your time in Rome with a Civitavecchia Port: 9 Hours Luxury Private Full-Day Shore excursion of Rome . With a friendly English-speaking driver, visit St. Peter’s Square, the world’s largest Basilica of Christianity, and pay a visit to the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel.

Explore the colossal Colosseum and its underground passageways, and immerse yourself in ancient history at the Roman Forum after climbing up and down the iconic Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna. Catch the well-preserved Pantheon and toss a coin into the magnificent Trevi Fountain. With this tour, enjoy the flexibility to explore at your own pace, and get to see the best the city has to offer in a comprehensive, full-day tour. 

Tickets are at your own expense , so you should book them in advance to avoid wasting time in the queues. 

📝 This Rome-in-a-day private tour includes : Port pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, all stops, and a booklet. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Romantic Photoshoot in Rome

Visiting Rome with your sweetheart? Discover the city through the lens of a professional photographer on this Romantic Photoshoot for Couples . Walk hand in hand with your partner, feeling the vibrant pulse of the Eternal City as you strike romantic poses against breathtaking backdrops like Trastevere and the Trevi Fountain. 

You will receive expert guidance and posing tips from your personal photographer, and within 48 hours, relive your Roman escapade as you download the beautifully edited images on your devices. 

📝 This tour includes : A private photographer, and a selection of digital, edited photos. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Rome Private Tours FAQ

In my opinion, these below are the best and most comprehensive private tours of Rome:  • All Rome 1 Day Tour – Luxury Car, Entrance Tickets, and Lunch Included • 4 Hours Guided Private Tour of Rome with Pickup in 8 seater Mercedes minivan • Charming VIP Rome By Night Experience

The price for a Rome private tour with a guide will depend on the type of experience you choose, whether or not it includes tickets, and the size of your group. You can expect to pay anywhere between $70 and $800. 

While you can easily explore Rome on your own, getting a tour provides a more comprehensive experience, especially if it’s your first time in the city. You’ll get to understand the history and significance of the monuments, and learn about the culture of the Eternal City. I’d say it’s definitely worth it!

You can visit the Vatican with an Early Bird Vatican Private Tour that guarantees a personalized experience, and access to the Museums before they open to the public. This way you’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy a memorable visit with your very own tour guide to explain everything. 

Private, face-to-face meetings with the Pope are reserved for the members of the Church. However, you can join a Papal Audience in Rome Private Tour to see the weekly audience from up close, with a VIP location to see the Pope and the ceremony without restrictions.

Yes, you can definitely embark on a private day trip from Rome. I think that these are the best excursions available for you and your group:  • Private Tour from Rome to Amalfi Coast and Pompeii • Private Tour: Florence and Pisa – Full Day from Rome • Private Tuscany Wine Country Day Trip from Rome with Lunch

If you want to visit the Vatican without the crowds, you can join an Early Bird Vatican Private Tour that grants you access to the Museums before they’re open to the public.  

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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23 Best Rome Tours – Explore the Eternal City with an Expert

With so much to see and do in Rome, planning a trip on your own can be frustrating and stressful. Booking one of the many Rome private tours available to help you dig deeper into the city’s history and art, adds to the value of your whole trip.

While it’s true that wherever you look, there is something to do, a palace to visit, a church to photograph, or ancient Roman ruins to see, having a Rome itinerary is very helpful. This is why we wrote an essential guide to the best private tours of Rome touching different types, subjects, and styles.

We will give you options to choose from different Vatican tours, Rome food tours, and more generic tours. And we will also redirect you to more specific guides for each of the subjects so that you can really pick what’s best for you.

Whether you are a new or an experienced traveler, Rome day tours can be really helpful to better understand the history of the place. On a Rome full-day tour, you can discover how a building came into existence, how a tradition was born, how the city looked like centuries ago, or how ancient Romans lived.

You can decide to book one of the many tours in Rome in English, either an exclusive private guide or one of the Rome group tours. There are many options, but whatever you pick, it’s essential to book a good company to make the most out of your trip, so here we have collected some of the very best Rome private tours.

Suppose, on the other hand, you prefer to delegate and leave the organization’s burden to the expert. In that case, you can also book a full Italy vacation package that includes Rome, too, along with other cities. Discover with us the best private tours of Rome and our favorite ones!

Table of Contents

Rome walking tours

Never missing being part of any trip, Rome walking tours are always popular among tourists from the world over.

Semi-private morning tour of Rome

What’s the best way to start your Roman holiday? With a typical Italian breakfast ! This is how this exclusive Rome tour kicks off before taking you to all the most iconic places in the city center.

Your expert guide will enrich this tour of 6 participants max with stories and anecdotes Rome is so rich in, making your experience fascinating and fun. Starting bright and early is the perfect introduction to the city before the crowds fill the streets.

Click here for details and prices

Welcome to Rome Tour

Not a morning person? Then start your Rome trip with a gelato and an evening stroll around Rome’s city center .

Rome will welcome you with an intimate walk around the most popular sights such as Piazza Navona , the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps , the Trevi Fountain and obviously glimpsing at the ancient Roman ruins . Your guide will be local, so you can ask him/her some tips on how to best enjoy their city.

This is a great start and one of the tours of Rome in English you will very much enjoy, but don’t stop here, there’s so much more to be discovered in the Eternal City .

Roman Icons Tour with Panoramic View

This is a fantastic private tour of Rome run by Walks. You will meet your guide in front of Castel Sant’Angelo and you will travel back in time through the history and architectural layers of some of the most important landmarks in Rome .

With the Roman Icons tour you will enjoy a thorough and complete visit to Castel Sant’Angelo, built as the mausoleum of emperor Hadrian and that served as a prison, noble residence, and papal shelter. Your visit will end on its panoramic terrace where you will enjoy what’s arguably the best view of Rome.

You will then walk to Piazza Navona and the wonderful Pantheon , discovering how it was built, the importance of the light and the sun rays, and the evolution of its history and purpose.

Semi-private golf cart tour of Rome

Do you want to see as much as you can in 3 hours? This semi-private tour allows you just this. You will see all the major landmarks from the comfort of a cushioned seat in a golf cart, from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain to the Jewish Ghetto to the lesser-visited Testaccio neighborhood and charming Aventine Hill.

This tour runs with 6 people max and is perfect if you are on a short trip and still want to see all the main monuments.

Rome in a Day Tour

If you are looking for a Rome full-day tour, look no further. While it’s impossible to visit Rome in a day, this tour will give you a pretty good idea of the city’s history and greatness.

You will see all the main Rome attractions, from the Pantheon to the Trevi Fountain to Piazza Navona, including top landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Vatican, and St. Peter’s Basilica, and enjoying a skip-the-line entrance to the last three sights.

Everything will be organized, from the entrances to the private transfer so that in little less than 8 hours you will manage to do as much as possible without wasting time. A taste of a great artisan gelato makes it one of the favorite private tours of Rome.

Semi-private Jewish Ghetto & Trastevere Rome tour

A very cool experience in the charming neighborhood of Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto is this Rome semi-private tour by LivTours.

With a small group of 6 people max, you will wander the streets of these historically rich areas and learn about the Jewish community in Rome. You will also visit important landmarks like the beautifully frescoed Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica and Teatro Marcello, and step over Rome’s oldest bridge, Pons Fabricius .

Guided and private Vatican tours

St. peter’s basilica private tour.

If you want to devote the stunning St. Peter’s Basilica the time it fully deserves, we suggest you choose St. Peter’s Basilica Private Tour. Neglected in most tours for lack of time, the basilica is often visited in a rash due to the overwhelming amount of things to do in the Vatican .

On this tour, however, you can experience it more in-depth. You will see the interior mosaics up close, you will climb to Michelangelo’s Dome (Cupola) and see the artist’s La Pietà sculpture. Finally, with this private tour of Rome, you will also go down to the crypt where most popes have been buried.

Vatican Highlights Tour

For a complete Vatican City walking tour that shows the essentials, including the Vatican Museums with the Sistine Chapel and the Gardens, and St. Peter’s Basilica. You will skip all the lines to save time and in less than three hours you will learn the essentials of the Vatican palaces and artwork.

Instead of focusing on the details, this Vatican private tour will give you the bigger picture, and this is what makes it one of the favorites due to the huge amount of things to do in Rome and the little time many travelers have.

Early-entry Sistine Chapel Tour

For those of you who want to enjoy the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s wonderful Universal Judgment fresco in silence and before the daily crowds, this is the right tour.

Enter the Vatican Museums 30 minutes before opening hours and enjoy the Sistine Chapel before everyone else.

With this Vatican tour , you will also skip the lines to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, which can make you save hours, especially in the busiest seasons.

Complete Vatican Tour

If you want a full Vatican City walking tour that includes all the main sights of the Holy See, Walks of Italy’s Complete Vatican Tour is the excursion for you.

This is very popular among Rome private tours as in little more than 4 hours you will have an in-depth experience of the Vatican City, and a good visit to the Sistine Chapel to admire its ceiling and walls. You will visit Raphael Rooms and the Belvedere Courtyard before passing onto St. Peter’s Basilica to stare at Michelangelo’s La Pietà and Bernini’s famous baldachin.

With this tour, too, you will skip all the longest lines and save precious time that you can devote to the landmarks and the art and history their walls enshrine.

Colosseum and Ancient Rome tours

Colosseum group tour.

No experience of Ancient Rome is complete without a visit to the Colosseum. With this Rome Colosseum Tour, you will skip the long line at the Colosseum and at the Roman Forum.

Your guide will lead you through the history of the Coliseum, the tales of fights, games and executions, the engineering genius of the ancient Romans, and all this amphitheater was used for.

After the Colosseum, your Ancient Rome walking tour will carry on at the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, known for being the birthplace of Rome. The Roman Forum is where ancient public life took place, where they built temples and where you will see the altar of Julius Ceasar, where he was cremated after being killed in Largo Argentina, and where still today people bring fresh flowers.

Take Walks never disappoints, their guides are always expert and passionate. You will love this Rome Colosseum tour.

Colosseum Underground Tour

Little shorter than four hours, this tour will take you to the areas of the Colosseum that are usually closed to the public, the underground and the arena. Learn how gladiators lived, where they waited for the next fight, walk on the arena, the stage where so many cruel shows were performed before a pretty blood-thirsty audience.

After getting close up and personal with the reality of the Colosseum, you will move on to the Roman Forum, the heart of the ancient city and where its public life happened and from where their huge empire was ruled.

This is one of the most popular Rome group tours, so make sure you book well in advance, especially if you are planning a trip to Rome for the summer.

Colosseum Night Tour

A great experience is a Colosseum evening tour, to walk on the arena in silence and enjoy this popular landmark after the usual daily crowds have left. Your guide will pepper the Colosseum underground evening tour with tales of how the gladiators lived right in the place where they waited to take part in the next fight. All tales that in the darkness evoke a sense of mystery.

The Colosseum and Ancient Rome tour by night is carried out in small groups and a Colosseum guard will open the gates of the arena for you so you can walk the passageway where the gladiators walked before heating up the spectators.

In very high demand and incredibly fascinating, this is one of the best night tours of Rome, so make sure you book in advance if you decide to take it.

READ MORE: For more options, check out our detailed guide to the best Colosseum tours .

Rome Catacombs Tours

Crypts, bones & catacombs: an underground tour of rome.

I absolutely loved this underground tour of Rome . In some three hours, you will visit one of the lesser-known Roman catacombs, the spooky Capuchin Crypt in Via Veneto housing (and showing) and the bones of some 4000 friars, and the beautiful San Nicola in Carcere Basilica. This is a church built on the site of an ancient Roman temple and fruit market, then turned into a prison and housing a crypt used in the 12th century to perform exorcisms.

A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the history of Rome in BC time, of persecutions of Christians, and old religious rituals.

Alone in Rome’s Catacombs

If you are into spookiness, then you should take the Rome Catacombs tour at night. The darkness inevitably adds to the mystery of these already obscure places. This tour will give you special access to the Catacombs of Santa Priscilla after closing time and a visit to the Capuchin Crypt and Museum. Definitely one of the best night tours of Rome.

Rome Food Tours

Rome food tour + pizza-making class.

If tasting dishes and ingredients weren’t enough, now you can also learn how to make your own pizza directly from an expert. On Take Walks’ Rome Food Tour + Pizza-Making, the chef of a local pizzeria will show you the secrets of Italy’s most famous and exported dish while you will have a sample of other delicacies.

This food tour of Rome will take you to a local market where you will learn about the different products depending on the season and the region. Along the way, you will discover the ingredients used in Rome and in other Italian regions and the secrets behind many of them. During this tour, your expert local guide will also give you some tips on where to eat to find the best food in Rome.

Taste of Testaccio Food Tour of Rome

I loved this Taste of Testaccio food tour with Eating Europe , and I loved strolling around Testaccio to sense its working-class and traditional vibe. Even though close to the city center and boasts important sights, tourists are seldom seen in this lovely Roman neighborhood. With this tour, you will explore an offbeat side of Rome without getting too far from the popular areas.

Your tour will kick off with some local daily life with a tour of Testaccio market, and along the way, you will stop at iconic landmarks, visit a famous food shop that sells cheese, cold cuts, and products from all over Italy, and sample some of the Italian and Roman street food and an artisan gelato, and finally taste some of the most famous pasta dishes at a local restaurant.

Twilight Trastevere Food Tour of Rome with Eating Europe

Eating Europe (formerly Eating Italy) organize also a tasty food tour in Trastevere starting in the late afternoon, around 5 pm, and carrying on for some 3 to 4 hours. In this Twilight Trastevere Food Tour , you will visit historical places, mainly where the restaurants you will eat are set, as well as some of the best eateries in the neighborhood.

You will start your scrumptious Rome food tour at Enzo al 29, one of the very best restaurants in the city for Roman traditional cuisine. You will visit and sample the delicacies of places like La Norcineria, Trapizzino , and two traditional restaurants, and you will round off your journey at one of the best gelato shops in Rome, Fata Morgana.

Vatican Food Tour

If you are spending a couple of days in Rome, chances are you will make at least one visit to the Vatican. Being a very touristy area, around Vatican City is easy to end up in “tourist restaurants” that don’t really serve high-quality food. On your Vatican Food Tour with Eating Italy, you will sample proper Roman food and street food in the Prati neighborhood, one of my favorite areas in Rome.

Even though close to the Vatican, the Prati neighborhood is not really popular with tourists, but it’s in Prati that you can find nice restaurants , eateries, and even gelato shops.

Day tours from Rome

Tuscan hilltowns, fortresses & vineyards: day trip from rome.

This great round-trip from Rome on a private vehicle will take you to visit fascinating towns in the Tuscany region, sample the local cuisine and visit a Montalcino vineyard.

In some 13 hours, you will visit Pienza town, a local farm, visit the Montalcino historical fortress, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch in the picturesque Val d’Orcia, and taste famous wines such as Barolo and Montepulciano.

Click here for more details and prices

Amalfi Coast from Rome

A fantastic day trip from Rome is to explore the Amalfi Coast. The tour starts early morning and lasts some 14 hours, so brace yourself, you are in for a full treat. From 7 am to almost 9 pm, you will visit glamorous places like Positano, the Amalfi coast and town, a lemon farm where they produce the famous Limoncello liqueur, and briefly stop in Salerno.

On this tour from Rome in English, you will experience the stunning Amalfi Coast on the road and from the sea by boat hopping all along the coastline to enjoy a different set of views than those accessible from the road, such as its towns from the point of view that made them famous and often star in Hollywood movies.

You will have the chance to lead a day of VIP life by strolling around Positano and shopping the local handicraft as well as having lunch, enjoying the beach and visiting a lemon farm in Amalfi town where they make the Limoncello. When it’s nice weather and on summer days, you can swim in the Amalfi Coast’s crystal waters.

Rome to Pompeii tour

Walks of Italy takes you also on a Rome to Pompeii day tour. You will explore the fantastic archaeological site of Pompeii remarkably well-preserved by the Vesuvio’s lava put an end to it in 79 AD. When I visited Pompeii I was literally in awe.

Obviously, one day is not enough to visit the beautiful Campania region, but if you are really short on time, with this tour, alongside Pompeii you will also visit the Amalfi Coast and Positano.

Castel Gandolfo Tour with Apostolic Palace and Barberini Gardens

Since 2014, Pope Francis decided that the papal summer palace of Castel Gandolfo was too luxurious. Instead of spending there the hot season, he turned it into a huge museum.

Today, we can visit both the Apostolic Palace and the wonderful Barberini Gardens, explore their history and learn about centuries of papal presence.

To know more, read our review of Walks ‘ great tour to Castel Gandolfo from Rome by train.

Click here for more details and to book the tour

Rome vacation packages

If you are planning a trip to Italy and want to visit more than just the capital without the hassle of organizing everything, we recommend the tours of G Adventures or Intrepid Travel. Check out the article G Adventures vs Intrepid for a complete comparison.

Their Iconic Italy tour is just that, a journey through the most iconic places that made Italy a dream travel destination all over the world. You will visit wonderful cities such as Venice, Florence , the Cinque Terre , Naples, Pompeii and ending in Rome.

With this tour, you will explore Italy’s iconic landmarks, you will walk through its history and you will also enjoy its dolce vita lifestyle.

Click here for more details and current prices

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About The Author: Angela Corrias

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Rome Private Tours

Best-Selling Rome Tours Private Tours

24 results found

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Sistine Chapel: Essential Experience

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• Private Tours

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Ostia Antica Tour: The Perfectly Preserved Port of Ancient Rome

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Rome in Two Days Tour: VIP Immersive Experience

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Piazzas of Rome Tour with Colosseum & Roman Forum

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Underground Rome and Catacombs Private Tour by Car: Discover the Invisible City

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Rome Night Tour by Car: The Magic of the Eternal City

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On the Trail of Medieval Lazio: A Day Trip to Bracciano, Caprarola and Viterbo

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House of Augustus Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

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Private Roman Street Food Tour

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The Best Rome Private Tours

We are extremely proud of our Private Tours of Rome . With 17 years of hard work and unwavering commitment to our customers, we offer you an unparalleled experience.

Our Rome sightseeing experiences are comprehensive; we immerse you in the historical context and stories of the past, leaving a lasting legacy.

Our guides for these historical walks are carefully selected for their specialized knowledge and their passion for sharing the beauty of Rome with you. Their engaging narratives, combined with the discovery of often-overlooked details, bring to life the experience of becoming a part of what you see, understanding how it once was, and appreciating how it has evolved over time.

Why Choose Our Private Tours of Rome?

Have you ever dreamt of having a personal guide to unveil the magic of Rome? We turn that dream into reality. Our Rome Private Tours 2024 offer you the opportunity to discover the enchantment of this ancient city while relishing a customized experience.

We take immense pride in offering a wide range of tours in Rome to cater to a diverse array of travelers. From classic historical tours to unique culinary journeys, like the Private Roman Street Food Tour , where you can savor the delicious flavors of Roman cuisine. And for those in search of captivating evening experiences, don't miss our immersive Private Tour of Rome by Night .

Whether you're interested in exploring Rome's art and history or immersing yourself in its vibrant culinary and nightlife scenes, we have the perfect tour for you. Our variety of options allows you to tailor your experience and discover the best of the Eternal City based on your interests and preferences.

For those looking to explore Rome in a day, we also offer Private Tour Rome in a day options. These carefully crafted day-long tours are designed to help you efficiently discover the city's highlights, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.

In addition to our Private Tours, we also provide Group Tours for those who want to explore Rome with fellow travelers. Explore the beauty and diversity of Rome, both by day and by night, with our range of tour options.

What Makes Our Rome Private Tours a Valuable Choice?

Are Private Tours in Rome worth it ? If you're wondering about the value of Private Tours in Rome, let us highlight the compelling reasons that make our services a wise choice for your visit:

• Tailored Experience s - Our private tours are customized to your preferences and interests, ensuring that you see Rome your way.
• Expert Guide s: Our passionate guides, fluent in English, are not only knowledgeable about Rome's history but also skilled storytellers who make every tour engaging and informative.
• Skip the Line s - Enjoy priority access to Rome's most iconic landmarks, bypassing long queues and making the most of your time.
• Hidden Gems - Uncover Rome's best-kept secrets and lesser-known attractions that most tourists miss.
• Flexible Scheduling - We offer tours at your convenience, whether you prefer morning, afternoon, or evening.

Make the most of your visit to the Eternal City with our Rome Private Tours . Book your exclusive experience today and embark on a journey through history and culture like never before.

Rome Private Tour with Driver Guide

Discover Rome like never before with our premium Private Tours , featuring a professional driver guide.

One of the highlights of our service is the convenience of our car transfer during the tour, allowing you to move effortlessly between Rome's iconic sites: Colosseum , Roman Forum, Vatican Museums , Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and much more.

In addition to the car service, you'll also have a dedicated personal guide by your side. Our expert guides not only navigate the city's streets expertly but also provide insightful commentary, making your private tour of Rome informative and engaging.

Say goodbye to the hassles of transportation and hello to a tailored, stress-free exploration of Rome's wonders.

Luxury Private Tours of Rome

If you're looking for a Luxury Private Tour of Rome , you've come to the right place. Our exclusive VIP tours are designed to provide you with an unforgettable experience in the Eternal City. 

Prepare for an extraordinary VIP Colosseum Experience as we take you beneath the surface of the world's most iconic ancient site.

Few visitors have the privilege to explore the hidden underground areas of the Colosseum, where gladiators once awaited their fateful battles on the arena's sands. Relive the intense atmosphere of those bygone days and marvel at the colossal elevators that lifted gladiators and wild beasts into the amphitheater.

But that's not all. You'll have a unique opportunity to step onto the arena floor, where the echoes of the past are still present. The roars of the beasts and the cheers of the crowds almost seem to come alive. Our underground tour also extends to the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, offering you the complete ancient Rome experience. 

Furthermore, we also offer an exclusive VIP Capitoline Museums Private Tour , allowing you to explore the rich cultural heritage of Rome's Capitoline Museums in a private and personalized setting.

The Best Rome Private Tours for Families

When it comes to exploring the timeless beauty of Rome, our tours are tailored to accommodate families of all ages, making them an ideal choice for an unforgettable family adventure. Our Rome Private Tours are family-friendly and designed to captivate all generations, ensuring that your exploration of this captivating city is both educational and enjoyable.

Our licensed tour guides in Rome are experts in history and culture, and they excel at keeping all family members, from the youngest to the oldest, thoroughly engaged throughout the tour.

Create lasting memories as you explore Rome's iconic attractions with your loved ones and explore the city's rich history with our family-friendly guides. Choose us for a family adventure in Rome that combines learning and enjoyment seamlessly.

How to Book your Rome Private Tour with Us

Booking a Private Tour of Rome online has never been easier. With our user-friendly online booking system, you can effortlessly plan your Roman adventure in just a few simple steps. 

Choose your preferred date and time, specify the number of participants, discover the private tour guide Rome cost and complete your booking for a Rome Private Tour within minutes.

Our online platform is available 24/7, offering maximum flexibility to meet your travel needs. There's no better time to book and start gearing up for an unforgettable journey in Rome. Book your Rome Private Tour today and embark on an extraordinary adventure through the heart of the Eternal City!

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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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• Rome private tour...

Rome private tour guides

Just wanted to share that I followed up on previous contributors recommendations regarding private tour guides and had an outstanding experience with Sonia Tavoletta. She is an excellent tour guide and creates a tour based on each persons preferences. Her knowledge of the city’s history, art and architectural evolution are extensive. She is well versed on a wide range of topics. We are grateful that we met her and our first 3 days and 3 tours were made immensely better with her guidance. Rome can be a very confusing, trafficky place. This is my 3rd time here. She is in expert at navigating this city

Delighted to hear this! I have toured with her a couple of times and often recommend her.

A very kind, pleasant and emgagiyguide as well. Great

I would also recommend Marisa F. from http://www.toursbylocals.com ; I can't recall her last name now, but she's an archaeologist-turned tour guide, and loves to walk the streets of Rome.

Marisa led us on walks that covered most of the best sites in Rome; when we were walking in the Roman Forum, she pointed out an area where she had been part of a dig when she was still in college.

I apologize for forgetting her last name; searching for it, but not finding it (yet).

Another recommendation for Marissa (also can't remember her last name) from Tours by Locals. She met us at our hotel and included transportation from the hotel to our tour site. We were amazed at her knowledge and professionalism. Our tour was about four hours long. Our reservation was made about six months in advance of our arrival. Marissa provided needed contact information that really made us feel comfortable. Our tour was for Ostica Antica and we were not disappointed.

One other side note. After our long flight to Rome from San Francisco my wife's knee began giving her considerable pain (wound up requiring a total replacement). Marissa showed tremendous compassion and went out of the way to make our tour the highlight of our European vacation.

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9 Best Colosseum Underground Tours – Dive into Gladiatorial Rome

• Isabelle Hoyne
• November 7, 2023

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Unearth the secrets of ancient Rome with our expert guide to the best Colosseum underground tours. Dive deep into history, discover hidden wonders, and enhance your Roman odyssey!

Are you planning a visit to Rome and considering a tour of the legendary Colosseum?

Before you step into this ancient amphitheatre, allow me to shed some light on why Colosseum underground tours might just be the key to unlocking the full majesty of this iconic landmark.

I had the privilege of exploring the Colosseum’s hidden depths myself, opting for the VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground & Arena Floor by Walks of Italy. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer. It felt like gaining access to the secret backstage of one of history’s greatest spectacles.

Imagine standing in the very place where gladiators once nervously awaited their fate, where fierce animals were caged, and where the wounded sought solace.

Picture yourself among the intricate mechanisms that once moved massive stage props with the precision of an early-day elevator system, all operated by slaves.

This underground world brings the Colosseum to life in a way that general admission simply can’t.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the best underground Colosseum tours, allowing you to find and book the perfect one for your own trip to Rome.

Read on to find the best Colosseum underground tours to suit your needs. 

My top 3 picks: Best Colosseum Underground Tours

First choice.

VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Duration: 3.5 hours

Selling points: Exclusive Colosseum underground access. Rated 4.8/5 stars by 5,000+ guests.

second choice

Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour

Duration: 3 hours

Selling points: Intimate Colosseum exploration. Perfect 5/5 from 3,400+ reviews.

Third choice

Colosseum by Evening Guided Tour with Arena Floor

Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes

Selling points: Unique nighttime Colosseum experience. Rated 4.8/5 by 2100+ guests.

Best Underground Colosseum Tours

1 | vip colosseum underground tour with roman forum & palatine hill.

★ RATING : 4.8/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH : 3.5 hours | ✓ Book now

The VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill has garnered an impressive rating of 4.8/5 stars from 5203 reviews, making it a highly acclaimed experience in Rome.

This VIP tour offers exclusive access to the Colosseum’s underground, providing a unique opportunity to explore its hidden depths. Additionally, the tour includes visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, creating a comprehensive exploration of Rome’s iconic landmarks.

Led by a knowledgeable local guide, participants embark on a journey beneath the Colosseum’s surface, exploring the hidden tunnels and stepping onto the renowned arena floor. The tour continues with a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, offering insights into the social and political heart of ancient Rome.

Tour Highlights:

• Explore the Colosseum’s underground.
• Step onto the arena floor.
• Visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
• Discover lifelike digital projections of ancient Rome.
• Enjoy a small group experience with a maximum of 24 guests.

Perfect for:

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking an immersive exploration of Rome’s ancient past. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, and privileged access means no waiting in long lines.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Entrance time may vary between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm, depending on availability.

Reviews: “Our guide, Dario, was amazing. He shared his knowledge about Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Forum with us. He also gave us helpful tips as tourists in Rome. He also has a great sense of humour. I would definitely recommend the VIP Colosseum Tour that includes the underground of the Colosseum. ” – Rita, Aug 17, 2023 Read more reviews here.

Useful information:

• Start Time : Times vary (please check for availability).
• Duration : 3.5 hours.
• Size of Tour : Maximum 24 people.
• Accessibility : Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.
• Included : Colosseum entrance ticket, guided experience, and headset for groups over 6 people.

2 | Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour

★ RATING : 5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With an impressive 3,438 reviews, rating it a perfect 5/5 stars, this award-winning tour is highly regarded by travellers.

This tour offers an intimate exploration of the Colosseum, limited to just six people, ensuring a semi-private and personalised experience with a knowledgeable guide. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, based on my assessment, it’s clear why it’s a favourite among visitors.

On this tour, you delve into the Colosseum’s underground chambers, an area off-limits to most visitors, where you can walk through the maze of subterranean chambers and hear stories about the gruesome gladiator battles. As you ascend to the arena level, you’ll have a unique opportunity to walk on original floors that are nearly 2,000 years old, providing an authentic glimpse of history.

• Guided tour of the Colosseum and the highlights of ancient Rome.
• Skip the lines with priority entry to the Colosseum.
• Stroll up Palatine Hill and see where Rome’s wealthiest inhabitants once lived.

This tour is perfect for those who seek a more intimate and immersive experience of the Colosseum and ancient Rome. History enthusiasts, in particular, will appreciate the opportunity to explore the underground chambers and learn about the gladiators’ lives and battles.

• Limited access to the Colosseum’s restricted areas may be shared with other participants.
• Some changes in Colosseum ticketing regulations may affect the guide’s presence during a portion of the tour.

Reviews: “ Fun and informative. My wife and I are extremely appreciated the tour and the tour guide’s experience, knowledge, and humor. She had a lot of information and made it enjoyable for the long day of walking. It was one of our favorite tours of our two-week vacation. We really liked when she shared information on local Roman culture. This was very much worth the time and price. I would strongly suggest this tour to anyone. ” – Shane_W, Jul 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Varies (please check for availability).
• Duration : 3 hours.
• Size of Tour : Maximum 6 people.
• Included : Skip-the-line access, expert guide.

3 | VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground & Arena Floor

★ RATING : 4.8/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH : 2 hrs 45 mins | ✓ Book now

The VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground & Arena Floor makes the top 3 list after my own experience of taking it. With a remarkable rating of 4.8/5 stars from 2109 reviews, this tour offers a captivating night-time experience at one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, along with visits to other monuments.

This immersive tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the Colosseum at night, complete with VIP access to areas typically off-limits to the public. Additionally, the tour includes visits to other historic monuments in Rome, making it a comprehensive and unforgettable experience.

As evening falls over Rome, you’ll embark on a Colosseum night tour, allowing you to experience this iconic monument in a more intimate and serene atmosphere. The night-time setting enhances the tour’s exclusivity. Moreover, you’ll explore other significant landmarks, adding depth to your Roman adventure.

Having personally taken this tour, I can attest to its excellence. The night-time ambiance adds a layer of enchantment to the Colosseum experience. Stepping onto the arena floor and gazing at the illuminated amphitheater is nothing short of mesmerising. The inclusion of other monuments in the tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Rome’s history and architecture.

• Visit the Colosseum underground.
• Explore the Colosseum’s exterior and interior illuminated in lights.
• Enjoy a guided tour with a maximum of 24 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Discover other monuments and historic sites in Rome.

Perfect for: 

This night tour is perfect for those seeking a different perspective of the Colosseum, away from the daytime crowds and heat. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and ambiance of this ancient amphitheater while also discovering other iconic sites in Rome.

• Entrance time may vary between 7:15 pm and 10:30 pm, depending on availability.

Reviews: “Last year I was in Rome and did a Coliseum tour in the day . . . I didn’t want to go again after that experience but my family wanted to. I am so glad I did! The night tour was a completely different experience and 100% worth it! Going at night without the intense crowds and not in the heat of the day made it so much easier to immerse yourself into the experience and enjoy the information received. You could actually start to think of what it was like so long ago. Book this tour well in advance, you won’t be sorry! ” – Lisa, Sep 24, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Point : Teatro di Marcello, Rome.
• Duration : 2 hours and 45 minutes.
• Included : Colosseum entrance ticket plus guided experience.

RELATED READING | Best Colosseum by Night Tours: 9 Top Picks 

4 | Rome: Colosseum Underground Tour

★ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | ✓ Book now

With a remarkable rating of 4.8/5 stars from over 800 reviews, the Rome: Colosseum Underground Tour offers a fascinating journey through Ancient Rome’s iconic landmarks.

Meet your guide and enjoy skip-the-line access to the Colosseum . Explore the Underground, discovering the staging area for animals and gladiators. Visit recently opened dungeons and the mechanisms beneath the arena floor.

One of the standout things about this tour is the fact that it offers three options:

• Small Group Comprehensive Tour: Join a small group limited to adults only, with a maximum of 6 participants. This 3.5-hour tour includes a visit to the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, offering an unparalleled depth of insight.
• Private Tour: Choose a private tour for your small group, ensuring the guide’s exclusive attention. Customise the tour to your preferences for a truly personalised experience.
• Self-Guided Tour: Prefer to explore at your own pace? Opt for the “Go on Your Own Tickets” option, granting access to special areas not available to the general public. A Colosseum custodian will assist you.
• Discover the Colosseum’s premier levels, including the Underground and Arena.
• Experience life as a gladiator through the Gladiator’s Gate.
• Learn about the Colosseum Underground’s behind-the-scenes operations.
• Skip the long lines at Ancient Rome’s main monuments.
• Enjoy exclusive-access tours of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

Those looking for flexibility of choice in your exploration of the Colosseum Underground, with a well reviewed tour company.

Reviews: “What an amazing tour! We’ve been to the Colosseum twice but never saw it like this. Heidi was amazing and so knowledgeable about everything. The underground viewable areas they have opened are incredible and we got lucky and got to see some special museum exhibits and video that really brought the era to life. Highly recommended!” – Chris, United States, September 17, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Multiple starting times available.
• Size of Tour : 6 max in small group tour. Up to 36 participants on the private tour (from your own party)
• Accessibility : Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
• Included : Skip-the-line Colosseum Underground tickets. Headsets. Tips.

5 | Rome: Colosseum Underground, Arena & Forum Tour

★ RATING : 4.7/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH : 75 minutes – 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a commendable rating of 4.7/5 stars from approximately 3,000 reviews, the Rome: Colosseum Underground, Arena & Forum Tour offers an enriching exploration of Rome’s iconic landmarks.

This tour provides exclusive access to areas of the Colosseum not typically available to regular ticket holders, including the Underground, Arena, and upper tiers. It also offers a fascinating journey through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Guided by a professional guide, you’ll venture into the Colosseum’s underground, where gladiators and wild animals prepared for battle. Explore the Porta Libitinaria and ascend to the first level of the arena. Gain insights into the engineering marvel of the Colosseum and its enduring history. Discover the political and social significance of the games and events held here.

Afterward, you can independently explore the Roman Forum to gain a deeper understanding of daily life in ancient Rome. Enjoy breathtaking views from Palatine Hill and extend your visit as desired.

• Skip the long lines at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
• Learn about Ancient Rome from a professional guide.
• Exclusive access to the Underground Colosseum and Arena.

This tour is an excellent choice for history enthusiasts and curious travelers. It offers a unique perspective on the Colosseum and includes lesser-known areas. The skip-the-line access ensures a hassle-free experience.

• The order of site visits may vary.

Reviews: “ Elena was an excellent guide who really helped us understand the history of the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Tour was delayed due to issues with overcrowding and everything was communicated very well in advance so there were no issues with our travel plans. I would highly recommend this tour as the first thing you do on your trip to understand the beginnings of Rome as a city .” – GetYourGuide traveler, United States, September 19, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Check availability for specific starting times.
• Duration: 75 minutes – 3 hours.
• Size of Tour : Varies.
• Included : Skip-the-ticket-line entrance ticket, guided tour of the Colosseum, visit to the Forum and Palatine Hill, headsets for groups over 6 people.

6 | Rome: Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome

★ RATING : 4.6/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a commendable rating of 4.6/5 stars from over 2,000 reviews, the Rome: Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor, and Ancient Rome tour offers an intriguing journey through history.

Explore the hidden depths of the Colosseum and gain exclusive access to the arena floor on this guided walking tour . Afterwards, continue your adventure with a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

As you stand on the arena floor, walk in the footsteps of gladiators and imagine the roaring crowd. Descend beneath the Colosseum to explore the underground tunnels that connected it with the Ludus Magnus, where gladiators trained. Observe the chambers that housed wild animals and see the elevators used to release them onto the arena floor.

After the Colosseum, take a guided tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, delving into the heart of ancient Rome.

• Explore the underground tunnels of the Colosseum.
• Gain special access to the arena floor.
• Enjoy guided tours of the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum.
• Benefit from fast-track entry and skip the lines.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to uncover the secrets of the Colosseum’s underground and experience the grandeur of ancient Rome. Fast-track entry ensures a seamless visit.

• The start time may change, so plan accordingly.
• Security checks at entry points may have considerable wait times during peak seasons.

Reviews: “Wonderful! We loved the tour guide and how knowledgeable she was and her ability to answer all of our questions. It was the right size group and although hot we stopped for water and shady spots. The Colosseum didn’t disappoint either. I would highly recommend this tour. Very well organized.” – Frances, Canada, September 27, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Size of Tour : Varies (up to 20 people).
• Accessibility : Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments. 
• Included : Official guide, Colosseum fast-track entry, access to Colosseum underground and arena floor, Palatine Hill guided tour, Roman Forum guided tour.

7 | Rome: Colosseum Underground & Roman Forum Guided Tour

★ RATING : 4.6/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH : 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a solid rating of 4.6/5 stars from close to 2,000 reviews, the Rome: Colosseum Underground & Roman Forum Guided Tour takes you on a captivating journey through Ancient Rome.

Meet your guide at the activity provider’s office and head to the iconic Colosseum. Gain exclusive access to the restricted underground area , exploring the dungeons and the Gladiator’s Arena while learning about the building’s various uses.

The tour then continues around the rest of the Colosseum before heading to Palatine Hill. Here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city centre and have the perfect photo opportunities. Finally, descend the hill to reach the Roman Forum.

Arrive at the Roman Forum, once the centre of life in Ancient Rome, and discover the array of important buildings located here. Learn about the historical significance of this site, where public speeches, elections, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches took place.

• Skip-the-line access to each monument.
• An intimate, small group tour with an expert guide.
• Exploration of the Colosseum’s restricted underground.
• Stunning views from Palatine Hill.
• Discovery of the Roman Forum and its historical importance.

This tour provides an in-depth exploration of the Colosseum’s underground, as well as a unique perspective on Ancient Rome. It will give a good overview of Colosseum, Roman Forum and Ancient Rome to those who want to be part of a relatively small group.

• Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not permitted in the monuments.
• Being late may result in not being able to join the group or reschedule.

Reviews: “Rita was amazing! She described everything with enthusiasm and details. The tour underground brought it all together.” – Patty, United States, September 26, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Size of Tour : Up to 15 participants.
• Accessibility : Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
• Included : Admission to each monument, access to the Colosseum’s restricted underground, live guide, headsets, all taxes and fees.

8 | Small-Group Ancient Rome and Colosseum Underground Tour

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 to 3 hours | ✓ Book now

Experience the awe of Ancient Rome with the Small-Group Ancient Rome and Colosseum Underground Tour, boasting close to 1,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating. This tour offers exclusive access to the Colosseum’s underground chambers and much more.

Your expert guide will unravel the mysteries of Ancient Rome, and your adventure continues with visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Meet your guide at the activity provider’s office and head to the iconic Colosseum. Gain exclusive access to the restricted underground area, exploring the dungeons and the Gladiator’s Arena while learning about the building’s various uses.

The Small-Group Ancient Rome and Colosseum Underground Tours are perfect for history enthusiasts, explorers, photographers, and small group lovers.

Reviews: “Underground is the only way to go! Amazing experience. Tour guides were informative and recreated a picture that transported you into the past. Given that it was so hot outside, it was nice to spend half the time underground where it’s nice and cool. Our group fully enjoyed this tour! I would recommend!” – Danielle_C, September 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Multiple starting times are available.
• Duration : 1.5 to 3 hours.
• Size of Tour : Up to 24 participants.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
• Included: Admission to each monument, access to the Colosseum’s restricted underground, live guide, headsets, all taxes and fees.

9 | VIP Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Small Group Tour

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a rating of 4.5/5 stars based on 249 reviews at the time of writing, the VIP Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Small Group Tour offers an exclusive experience of Rome’s ancient wonders.

Embark on a captivating journey through Rome’s history with VIP access to the Colosseum’s Underground and an exploration of the Roman Forum. This guided tour promises a deeper understanding of these iconic landmarks.

Meet your guide at Via del Colosseo and enjoy VIP access to the Colosseum. Delve into the Colosseum’s Arena, Underground, and dungeons, gaining insight into its history, including gladiator battles and shocking stories. Explore the Roman Forum with skip-the-line access, guided by an expert.

• VIP tour with exclusive access to the Colosseum Underground and Arena.
• Fascinating insights into ancient Rome’s events and stories.
• Expert guide sharing historical context and secrets.
• Skip-the-line access to the Roman Forum.
• Audio headsets for a clear tour experience.

History enthusiasts and adventurers seeking an in-depth exploration of ancient Rome’s most iconic sites. This VIP tour provides exclusive access and expert insights, making it ideal for those eager to immerse themselves in the rich history and captivating stories of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Reviews: “Fab Tour! Gigi was the best guide! Funny and very knowledgeable. The tour itself was amazing… Lots to see and so interesting to tour the underground. One of our favorite tours in Italy!” – Stacy_D, September 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Accessibility: This tour is not wheelchair accessible, and it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to uneven surfaces and stairs.
• Included : Professional guide. All taxes, fees, and handling charges. Headsets to hear your guide clearly.

What to keep in mind when choosing a guided tour of the Colosseum’s Underground

In my opinion, when planning your visit to the Colosseum’s Underground, it’s important to consider several factors to make the most of your experience:

1. Booking in Advance:

To secure your spot and avoid disappointment, I recommend booking your chosen Colosseum Underground tour well in advance. Especially during peak tourist seasons, these tours tend to sell out quickly. By planning ahead, you can ensure that your desired date and time are available.

2. Tour Availability and Timing:

Check the current tour schedules and available days to ensure they align with your visit to Rome. I suggest monitoring your emails for correspondence from the tour company in the lead up to your tour, as peak seasons may lead to unexpected adjustments in tour timing. Proactive communication can help avoid last-minute changes from spoiling your visit.

3. Group Combining:

Inside the Colosseum, tour guides are often hired directly by the site when it comes to the underground portion, and the tour companies may not have full control over this aspect.

Be prepared for the possibility of smaller groups from different tours being combined if their entry times overlap and the fact that you might have a different guide for the underground portion of your tour. 

4. Manage Expectations:

When reading tour reviews, you may encounter both positive and negative feedback. It’s important to manage your expectations by thoroughly reviewing the tour details and to take some of the negative feedback with a pinch of salt – sometimes, the customer is wrong.

Understanding what’s included in the tour and being aware that negative reviews may result from misunderstandings or communication challenges will help guide your choice of tour. 

5. Additional Monument Visits:

Some Colosseum Underground tours may include visits to other historic monuments in Rome. While planning your itinerary, consider whether you’d like to explore these additional sites. This can add depth to your Roman adventure and provide a well-rounded historical experience.

Best Colosseum Underground Tours: What you need to know

If you’re considering exploring the Colosseum’s underground, you probably have a few questions in mind. Here, I’ll address some common queries to help you plan your visit effectively:

What is the best Colosseum underground tour?

Two of the best Colosseum Underground tours include the VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill and the Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour. Both provide immersive experiences with knowledgeable guides that are part of extremely reputable tour companies.

Is it worth doing the underground Colosseum tour?

It’s most definitely worth doing the underground Colosseum tour – in fact, the underground is my favourite part of the Colosseum! The underground tour takes you beneath the Colosseum’s surface, offering a glimpse into its hidden chambers and passages. You’ll walk in the footsteps of gladiators and explore areas typically off-limits to the public. It’s a fascinating journey into ancient Roman history and architecture, making it well worth the experience.

Is it worth seeing the Colosseum arena floor?

Yes, visiting the Colosseum’s arena floor is highly worth it. Stepping onto the same stage where gladiatorial contests took place and enjoying panoramic views of the amphitheatre is a memorable experience. It provides a unique perspective of the Colosseum’s grandeur and historical significance.

How long is the Colosseum Underground tour?

The duration of Colosseum Underground tours can vary. On average, these tours last around 1.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the specific tour you choose. Be sure to check the tour details for the exact duration when booking.

What is the difference between the Colosseum Underground and the Arena?

The Colosseum underground refers to the hidden chambers and passageways beneath the arena. It includes areas where gladiators prepared for battle and where animals were kept. The Colosseum arena is the stage itself, where the gladiatorial contests and other events took place. Tours often provide access to both areas, allowing you to explore the complete Colosseum experience.

Can you see the Colosseum underground without a tour?

No, you cannot see the Colosseum underground with a tour – access to both the underground and arena floor is typically only available through guided tours. These tours provide exclusive entry to restricted areas, ensuring a comprehensive and informative visit.

Conclusion: Best Underground Tour of the Colosseum

In the heart of Rome lies an ancient wonder waiting to be explored—the Colosseum. While there are many ways to experience this iconic monument, the best way to truly immerse yourself in its history and grandeur is through an underground tour. Among the options, the VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill stands out as the top choice, as explored in detail earlier in this blog post.

But our journey doesn’t end here.

If you’re still curious about the various Colosseum experiences and want to explore more, I invite you to read our other blog posts related to the Colosseum. You’ll find detailed insights and reviews, including my personal experience with the Colosseum by Night Underground Tour , as well as a round up of the best Colosseum at night tours . 

If you’re on the fence about which Colosseum tour to choose, take a moment to read my comprehensive guide on the Best Colosseum Tours . It provides a breakdown of different tour types to help you make the right decision.

And while you’re planning your trip to Rome, don’t miss our other useful content, including a guide on how much time is enough to explore Rome and a detailed itinerary for experiencing the best of Rome in just four days .

So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventurer, or simply someone seeking an unforgettable experience, the Colosseum’s underground tour awaits. Step back in time, uncover the secrets of ancient Rome, and create lasting memories in the heart of this eternal city.

Related reading for visiting Rome

• 4 day Rome itinerary |  The Perfect 4-Day Rome Itinerary – Food, Culture & A Little Luxury
• Rome at night |  19 Things To Do At Night In Rome, From Culture To Cocktails
• Visiting the Colosseum at night |  Is A Colosseum By Night Tour Worth It? An Honest & Comprehensive Review
• Best colosseum underground tours | 9 Best Colosseum Underground Tours – Dive into Gladiatorial Rome
• Colosseum by night tours | Best Colosseum by Night Tours: 9 Top Picks for 2024
• Best Colosseum tours | 10 Best Colosseum Tours [2024] + Insider Tips to Choose Correctly
• Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast itinerary |  A Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast Itinerary for Culture, Food & Scenery
• Florence, Rome, Amalfi Coast itinerary |  A Sophisticated Florence, Rome & Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• How many days do you need in Rome | How Long to Stay in Rome? Insider’s Advice on the Perfect Trip Length

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Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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The Roma Pass: The Ultimate Guide on Whether it’s Worth the Money

April 24, 2023 | Posted in: Italy

Over 10 million tourists go to Rome each year, making the city Italy’s most popular destination. This means one thing: it’s crowded, especially in the high season. Booking tickets to major attractions or queuing for entry can waste your precious vacation time.

So, is there an easy way to plan your trip and book your entry to popular sites before you visit Rome? The answer is yes! The Roma Pass is an easy way to access multiple top attractions while in Rome.

How does the Roma Pass work, and how much does it cost? This post will break down all the pros and cons of the Roma Pass and help you decide if it’s worth it for your trip.

We’ll also take a look at the other Rome city passes to help you make up your mind about what’s right for you.

Let’s get started.

The Omnia Vatican Pass covers fewer sights and activities, but it does offer skip the line access to the Vatican Museums and Hop-on Hop-off bus tours, along with free public transport.

What is the Roma Pass?

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The Roma Pass is the ultimate sightseeing pass designed for the Rome tourist. It offers discounts and entry to some of Rome’s most famous sites. It’s a one-time purchase that essentially makes it easier and cheaper than buying individual tickets.

Rome City Council sponsors the Roma Pass card, which includes free access to public transport in the city. The idea behind the pass is to make your visit to Rome as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible, especially if you want to visit many of the most famous attractions, museums, and points of interest.

If you want to see as much of the city as possible in the shortest amount of time while making savings, the Roma Pass could be a good option.

There are two Roma Pass options: the 72-hour pass and the 48-hour pass.  

Roma Pass Benefits: What Does the Roma Pass Include?

When you buy a Roma Pass, you get a bunch of discounts and benefits to use while your card is valid.

Over 45 museums, monuments, and archeological sites are part of the Roma Pass.

Benefits of your Roma Pass include:

• Full access to the first two museums or archaeological sites you visit (with the 72-hour pass)
• Discounts and special prices for all other attractions, exhibitions, and tourist services
• Special booking access and skip the line tickets at certain attractions
• Free public transport in Rome Zone A

With your Roma Pass, you’ll always receive free entry to the first one or two attractions you visit (depending on the length of your pass), including any exhibitions held in the museum.

While you have to purchase discounted tickets for your second or third attraction, the following museums are always free with unlimited access:

• Villa di Massenzio e Mausoleo di Romolo
• Accademia Nazionale di San Luca
• Museo Carlo Bilotti Aranciera di Villa Borghese
• Museo della Repubblica Romana e della memoria garibaldina
• Museo delle Mura
• Museo di Casal de’ Pazzi (booking required)
• Museo di Scultura Antica Giovanni Barracco
• Museo Napoleonico
• Museo Pietro Canonica a Villa Borghese

Within Zone A, you have free unlimited access to Rome’s public transport. You can use the following lines:

• ATAC public transport (trams, buses, metro A, B, B1, and C and railway lines Roma-Lido, Roma Flaminio Piazza del Popolo-Viterbo, Roma-Giardinetti)
• Transfers to and from Ciampino airport by ATAC Bus line 720 from/to Metro B Laurentina Station
• Transfers to and from Ciampino airport with the ATAC Bus line 520 from/to Metro A Subaugusta and Cinecittà station.
• Transfers by tpl Atac bus, Trenitalia FL railway lines, the train to and from Fiumicino Airport

• Galleria Borghese – booking required in advance to guarantee fast track entry
• Galleria d’Arte Moderna di Roma Capitale – booking in advance recommended
• Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica in Palazzo Barberini e Palazzo Corsini – Palazzo Barberini- cumulative ticket (no need to buy separate tickets): Palazzo Barberini + Palazzo Corsini
• Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea
• Galleria Spada – Booking is optional
• Journeys Through Ancient Rome – Book tickets online through the Roma Pass website
• Mausoleo di Augusto – reservations required on the Roma Pass website
• MAXXI – Museo nazionale delle arti del XXI secolo
• Mercati di Traiano – Museo dei Fori Imperiali – advance reservation highly recommended
• Musei Capitolini – advance reservation highly recommended
• Musei Capitolini – Centrale Montemartini- advance reservation highly recommended</li
• Musei di Villa Torlonia – cumulative ticket Casina delle Civette + Casino Nobile
• Musei di Villa Torlonia – Serra Moresca – advance reservation highly recommended
• Museo Civico di Zoologia – advance reservation highly recommended
• Museo dell’Ara Pacis – advance reservation highly recommended
• Museo di Roma – advance reservation highly recommended
• Museo di Roma in Trastevere – advance reservation highly recommended
• Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo – advance reservation highly recommended
• Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia
• Museo Nazionale Romano
• Museum of Civilisations
• Museum of Civilisations – Museo Nazionale d’Arte Orientale
• Palazzo Valentini – Archaeological Area of the Domus Romane – booking recommended
• Parco archeologico del Colosseo, Foro Romano & Palatino – Colosseo (Anfiteatro Flavio) Cumulative ticket (no need to buy separate tickets): Anfiteatro Flavio: Colosseo + Palatino + Foro Romano (the museum excluded)
• Parco Archeologico dell'Appia Antica Cumulative ticket (no need to buy separate tickets) valid for the entire duration of the Roma Pass: Mausoleo di Cecilia Metella, Villa dei Quintili-Santa Maria Nova, Antiquarium di Lucrezia Romana, Complesso di Capo di Bove, Tombe della Via Latina
• Parco Archeologico di Ostia Antica

After you visit your first one or two museums or attractions for free, the Roma Pass gives you discounted entry to dozens of other attractions throughout the city. Here’s the full list of attractions, theatres, and tours, along with the discount you get with your Roma Pass:

• Accademia di Francia a Roma – Villa Medici – Concession ticket
• Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia – 20% discount on Friday concerts
• Ancient and Recent – 15% discount
• Area Archeologica Del Vicus Caprarius – la Citta Dell’Acqua – Concession ticket (booking recommended)
• Augustus Welcome to Rome – 15% discount at ticket office
• Bioparco – 2 EUR discounts at the ticket office
• Casa di Goethe – Concession ticket
• Camminamento della Mura Aureliane di Via Campania
• Camminamento della Mura Aureliane di Via Pretoriano
• Cinecitta Si Mostra – 10% discount on exhibitions
• Cincitta World – 5 EUR discount on full price ticket online with code ROMAPASS
• Circo Maximo Experience – multisensory augmented reality experience (entry without VR device)
• Colonna Gallery – private entrance for Roma Pass holders
• Evolved Guide – 15% discount on tours with a private guide
• Foxtrail – Urban Adventures – 20% discount Foxromapass
• Gladiator for a Day – 20% discount
• Gladiator Museum – 2 EUR discount at the ticket office
• Hard Rock Cafe Rome – 15% off at restaurant + free gift at the shop with spends over 35 EUR
• Hydromania – 1 EUR discount
• Ikono Roma – The Immersive Experience – 15% discount on adult & reduced tickets with code ROMAPASS online
• InRome Cooking Class – 15% discount for cooking classes and food tours
• Inside Eat – 15% discount on cooking experiences with code ROMAPASS online
• I Virtuosi Dell’Opera Di Roma – Concession ticket
• Imperial Rome Bus in Virtual Reality – Concession ticket
• Lateran Palace – Reduced ticket
• Leonardo Da Vinci Experience – 2 EUR discount at the ticket office
• Leonardo Da Vinci Museum – 2 EUR discount at the ticket office
• Mcarthurglen Castel Romano Designer Outlet – 10% discount
• MIAC – Italian Museum of Moving Image – 10% discount + 10% discount at the shop
• Museo Ebracio Di Roma – Concession ticket
• Museo Leonardo Da Vinci – Piazza Del Popolo – Concession ticket
• MuseoNazionale delgi Strumenti Musicali – Concession ticket
• Museo del Teatro Argentia – open to organized groups by reservation only
• Opera e Lirica – 10 EUR discount for central seats
• Opera in Rome – Concession ticket
• Palazzo Delle Esposizioni – Concession ticket
• Palazzo Merulana – Concession ticket
• Parco Villa Gregoriana
• Planetarium – Concession ticket
• Roma Opera Omnia – Concession ticket with 10% discount
• Roma World – 3 EUR discount on full price ticket online with code ROMAPASS
• Safari D’arte – 20% discount on art treasure hunt tours
• Stadio di Domiziano – Concession ticket
• Teatro Arcobaleno – 20% discount
• Teatro Argentina – Concession ticket
• Teatro Brancaccio e Brancaccino – 20% discount on tickets
• Teatro Dell’Opera di Roma 20% discount on no-subscription performances and 10% on subscriptions
• Teatro Flavio – 20% discount
• Teatro il Parioli – 20% discount
• Teatro India – Concession ticket
• Teatro Vascello – Concession ticket
• Teatro Vittoria – 20% discount in the stalls, 15% discount in the gallery
• Terme di Caracalla – 10% discount + 4 EUR discount on audio guide
• The Roman Quary of the Appian Way – 15% discount on a private tour, 20% discount on scheduled tour (only Italian)
• The Underground od San Nicola in Carcere – 15% discount on a private tour, 20% discount on scheduled tour (only Italian)
• Theater of Villa Torlonia – Concession ticket
• Tram Jazz – 5 EUR discount
• Vigamus Rome Video Game Museum – 5 EUR ticket
• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel – 8% discount
• Vox Vatican Guide – App for St. Peter’s Basilica – 5 EUR discount
• Wax Museum- 50% discount
• Zoomarine Amusement Park – discounted ticket

Your Roma Pass is part of a full tourist package! You can also use your Roma Pass to save money with the following services for tourists:

• 1 City Tour – 15% discount on electric cars, bikes, Vatican and Colosseum tours, and luggage deposit
• Bags Free Luggage Transport and Storage – 15% discount
• Bicycl-E – 20% discount on e-bike rentals & 10% discount on tours
• Big Bus Rome – 15% discount
• Bounce Luggage Storage – 15% discount online with code ROMAPASS15
• Capital Luggage Deposit at Termini Station – 15% discount
• City Sightseeing Rome – 15% discount on open bus tours
• Ecobike at Parco Appia Antica – 20% discount on bike hire
• Hi Bike – 15% discount on any rental, 20% discount on a Hi Bike tour
• Hop on Hop off Panoramic Rome Bus Tour – 20% discount
• Radical Storage – 10% off
• Roma Starbike – 15% discount when booking online with code romapass
• Rome and Italy Tourist Services – 20% discount
• Rome by Segway – 30% discount
• Rome Left Luggage – 10% discount for luggage storage and bike rental
• Segway Rome Tours – 20% discount
• Sitbus Shuttle to Ciampino Airport – 6 EUR ticket one way, 11 EUR return ticket
• Sitbus Shuttle to Fiumicino Airport – 6 EUR tickets, 13 EUR return ticket
• Stow Your Bags – 15% discount
• Terravision Shuttle to Ciampino or Fiumicino Airport – 5.50 EUR ticket one way, 10 EUR return ticket
• Topbike Rental and Tours- 10% discount
• Travelbaby – 10% discount on all products
• Travelwheelchair – 10% discount on all products
• Wheely Bike Rental and Tour – 20% discount

While the Roma pass does not include free entrance to the Vatican museums and Sistine Chapel, you can get a discount on entry, usually 18 EUR.

However, remember that tickets to the Vatican Museums sell out way ahead of time. If you want to visit Vatican City on your trip to Rome, you must plan it in advance.

Other things not included with the Roma Pass:

• Visits to the Colosseum at night
• Tourist hop on/hop off buses
• The express train from Fiumicino Airport Trenitalia “No stop” train Roma Termini-Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo Express), and all connections to and from Fiumicino Airport
• Colossum Hypgeum
• St Peter’s Tomb
• The Catacombs
• The Viaggio nei Fori light shows

You’ll need to buy an extra ticket or pay the entrance fee for these attractions in Rome as reduced ticket prices aren’t available.

There are two options for the Roma Pass:

• The 72-hour pass which costs 52 EUR / 55 USD
• The 48-hour pass, which costs 32 EUR / 34 USD

Depending on how long you plan to stay in Rome and how many sites you want to visit will determine which pass works best for you.

Remember, the 72-hour pass offers you free entry to the first two museums or sites you choose to visit.

The 48-hour pass offers you free entry to one site.

On visiting your first site or museum, your pass is automatically activated, and you can then use it as much as you like for the next 48/72 hours.

You can buy your Roma Pass online in advance here .

Alternatively, you can purchase the pass at all the museums and sites that participate or any tourist information spot in the city. You can find a complete map of tourist info points in Rome here .  

The Roma Pass may even be worth it for the skip the line option because the most popular attractions in Rome can get extremely busy. You can queue for hours to visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum. For example, the Borghese Gallery and the Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel can have ticket lines that are way over an hour outside.

The Colosseum ticket you get included in your Roma Pass includes Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, which means the Roma Pass makes it much easier than buying individual tickets to those attractions.

To get the most out of your Roma Pass, you’ll need to plan your itinerary carefully and book tickets online for some of the attractions you want to see in advance. That way, you’ll really be able to maximize your time in Rome and get your money’s worth from your sightseeing pass.

You’ll get a free map with your city pass, making it easier to plan your days in Rome.

If you're looking for a more relaxed itinerary on your trip to Rome and only want to visit one or two museums or sites, the Roma Pass won’t be worth it for you.

The savings you get using the Roma Pass are modest, with small discounts compared to the regular entry price for many attractions. So if you aren’t bothered by the skip the line perk and want to visit less touristy sites on your trip, the Roma Pass probably isn’t the best tourist pass option for you.

If the Vatican City attractions aren’t appealing to you, and you just want to check Vatican City from the outside without visiting any of the Vatican museums, you can also skip buying the Vatican museum pass that we'll go into detail about below.

At first, the free public transport option may seem appealing, however, one of the charms of Rome is walking the streets and discovering it for yourself. Plus, public transport is very cheap – on average 1.40 EUR per journey on the metro. You won’t necessarily be saving money by using a Rome Pass on public transport.

Want to plan your own itinerary? Check out this 4 day itinerary for Rome .

If seeing the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and the Colosseum, isn’t enough and you also want fast track entry to the Vatican and St Peter’s Basilica, you can add on the Omnia Vatican Pass to your Roma Pass. This makes it a combo card.

The Omnia Vatican Pass also includes access to Rome’s Hop-on, Hop-off bus. So if you really want to go all out on your trip to the eternal city, you could consider buying both passes.

Purchasing both passes together gives you the ultimate Rome tourist experience. If seeing as many tourist spots as possible while skipping the ticket lines is your priority, it could be an excellent option for you.

For the sake of transparency, here are all the Rome tourist spots you can access for free with the Omnia Rome Card:

• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel – Fast track & reserved entry
• St Peter’s Basilica – Free audio guide included
• Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour – 4 available routes
• Carcer Tullianum (Maretine Prison) – Free multimedia guide included & reserved time slot
• Vox City Guide
• St. John in Lateran and Cloister – Free audio guide included

Don’t get confused by these two different options; it’s simple:

If you want to see only the Vatican museums and the Sistine chapel get the Omnia Vatican Pass.

If you only want to see the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Colosseum, get the Roma Pass.

Get the combo pass if you want to see all the Rome city sites!  

Plan for the best, and prepare for the worst. Travel insurance covers you in case (part of) your trip gets canceled, you get sick or hurt abroad, and sometimes even when your electronics break or get stolen. I always make sure I'm covered on every trip I go on.

Don't have travel insurance yet? Check out SafetyWing. They offer super flexible plans that you can even sign up for while you're already on your trip. On top of that, they were the first travel insurance to cover COVID, and when I got COVID, they reimbursed all of my expenses without making a fuss. Their customer support team is great and I can personally recommend them.  

Have you ever visited Rome? Did you go for one of the Rome city passes or go it alone? Share your experience in the comments.

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How to plan a family city break in Rome

Visiting the Italian capital brings history vividly to life, and you can sightsee simply by strolling, with regular reviving pizza, pasta and ice-cream stops.

Rome, a place of mythology, gladiators and ice-cream, has an unparalleled hold on the imagination. The city centre feels like an open air museum, the gloriously intact Colosseum rising up at its ancient heart, and with millennia-old ruins and dazzling baroque at every turn.  

Central Rome is fairly walkable, so stay centrally or somewhere with easy access to the centre by metro or bus and it’s easy to explore, hopping on the occasional metro or bus for longer journeys. Rather than specifically family-friendly sights, in Rome a family trip could encompass epic Roman ruins, chances to tell a lie at the Mouth of Truth, or cycling around the bucolic Villa Borghese park. Another plus is that Italians love children, and babies, especially, will get a fuss made of them wherever they go.

What to do in Rome with kids

Toddlers:   The Palatine encompasses the imperial ruins of ancient palaces, but more importantly, lovely gardens in which toddlers can run around and play; pack a picnic to take it easy and enjoy the greenery. What’s more, the Palatine is covered in the same ticket as the Roman Forum and Colosseum, with splendid ruins, and stories of emperors, gladiators and wild animals to inspire your small companions.

The Explora Museum has a central water mechanism where toddlers can get busy moving water from one place to another and getting the machine to work. They can also play at being grown ups, with small shopping trolleys, post office counters, and grocery shopping. There’s a good playground outside (a rarity in Rome), with a zipline.

Rome’s piazzas   are ideal for young children, giving the freedom to run and roam. Piazza Navona has impressive fountains, street artists and performers such as living statues. There are also the elaborate displays of Al Sogno toyshop, and Città del Sole   toy store nearby, the latter with lots of wholesome wooden toys.

Children under 10:   The Colosseum   looms large on the landscape of any trip to Rome, and younger kids will find the evocation of gladiatorial combat, imperial power and wild beasts irresistible. Opt for a family guided tour to bring the ancient auditorium to life. Afterwards, wander up nearby Aventino hill for a view through its mysterious peephole.

Rome’s historic centre includes the chance to gaze upwards at the Pantheon’s   oculus and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain. Try some hands-on Leonardo inventions at Museum Leonardo Da Vinci Experience . Have a marble sign engraved at Via Margutta’s Il Marmoraro, and get your hand (possibly) bitten off at the Mouth of Truth.

The ancient Roman road, the   Via Appia,   has a preserved stretch running southwards through emerald countryside and lined by Roman ruins. You can bike it, with bike hire at the Visitor Information Centre . Nearby, Rome Gladiator School   runs gladiatorial training sessions, ideal for kids who love a bit of mortal combat.

Tweens and teenagers: Colosseum night tours   are a thrillingly different way to explore the amphitheatre. Take a tour that visits the building’s underground sections where the wild beasts were kept, as well as the seeing the arena by moonlight, an atmospheric way to see where the deadly entertainment took place.

Villa Borghese , Rome’s most beautiful park, has Surrey (four-person), regular, or e-bikes, so you can explore the park with its boating lake. Check out viewpoints that offer a backdrop of Roman rooftops, such as at Pincio Hill, or a short walk away, photogenic anoramas from the top of the Spanish Steps, the city’s rococo outdoor staircase.

The Vatican & St Peter’s   have days worth of riches to explore, and even the surliest teen will be (secretly) impressed by the glories of the Sistine Chapel. Take a teen-oriented tour of the highlights to avoid museum fatigue and queues. Climb the dome of St Peter’s for a soaring view down over its piazza and beyond.

Where to eat in Rome with kids

Toddlers: A wonder of Rome is that children are welcomed with benevolent smiles, while babies are treated like mini-celebrities. Mezza (half) portions are offered rather than children’s menus. If you don’t fancy a sit-down meal, pick up some of the world’s best takeaway pizza from Forno di Campo di Fiori. For a more leisurely meal, there are hundreds of options, such as lively Pizzeria alle Carrette , in Monti, convenient for the Colosseum, where there are plenty of pasta dishes available as well as pizza.

Children under 10: Local trattorias have appealing menus of pasta dishes and are lively and welcoming: look out for places such as Da Tonino , with big pasta portions on gingham tablecloths close to Piazza Navona. La Polpetta is likely to appeal as it has pasta and pizza, and serves up a cornucopia of different meatballs and other fried things (‘polpetta’ means ‘meatball’); there are several branches, most conveniently in Trastevere and Monti.

Tweens and teenagers: The best place in Rome for street food and Roman foodie culture is the covered food market in Testaccio, full of food and market stalls. Here you can get offal-rich Roman sandwiches at Mordi e Vai and pizza al taglio (by the slice) with unusual toppings (such as fennel, orange and olives) at Casa Manco. The lively streets of Trastevere are popular for an evening stroll, and there are lots of choices, including Trattoria Oste Nostro , on a cobbled backstreet, with enough insouciant cool and delicious pasta dishes to appeal to t(w)eens.

Where to stay in Rome with kids

Toddlers: With toddlers, make life easier for yourself and stay somewhere central, so you don’t have to travel far to explore. Albergo del Senato   has baroquely decorated family rooms, a roof terrace, and overlooks the heart of the action of the Pantheon square. You can’t get much more central than Navona 49 , on Piazza Navona, which offers apartments with kitchen facilities - ideal when you’re travelling with little ones.

Children under 10: For a peaceful vibe, yet still not far from the centre, check into the Aventino neighbourhood. This is a hill neighbourhood of ivy-cloaked ochre villas and peaceful streets, plus the Orange Garden, with big views over the city, You can stay at the gracious Hotel Via San Pio , which has family rooms that sleep up to four. Nearby, and not far from the Colosseum, Apartment Nido all’Aventino offers several smart apartments, with a sun terrace.

Tweens and teenagers: This age range will relish being in the heart of the action. A good area is Tridente, close to Piazza del Popolo, the Spanish Steps, and designer and mid-market shopping. Stay at the swish Babuino 181   where there’s a rooftop with a view, or opt for an apartment, such as Margutta Terrace Apartment , which is tucked away on an historic and gallery-lined cobbled street, opening onto a courtyard.

Related Topics

• FAMILY LIFE
• FAMILY TRAVEL
• ANCIENT HISTORY
• CHILDREN'S MUSEUMS

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Is a Helicopter Ride in Kauai Worth It? Your Top Questions Answered

A re you thinking about booking a  kauai  helicopter tour but still have a lot of questions keep scrolling to find out whether or not it’s worth booking a helicopter ride in kauai..

Guest post by Dani of Diapers in Paradise

If you have ever considered splurging on a helicopter tour, you are not going to find a better place in the world to do it than  Kauai .

Kauai is known for the lush, verdant jungle that covers most of the island, but it is largely inaccessible to vehicles.

In fact, some of the most iconic landmarks of the Garden Island are only visible from the water… or the air.

There are many helicopter tour companies set up on the island, ready to show you around the side of Kauai that you will not be able to experience any other way.

If you are wondering whether a Kauai helicopter tour is a worthwhile part of your trip, read on to learn more and to hear about my experience with it.

Don’t miss my top  Things to do in Kauai with Kids !

Popular Kauai Tours/Activities

• Na Pali Coast Snorkeling Tour (this one also goes to the forbidden island of Ni’ihau)
• Kauai Helicopter Tour (this is the BEST way to see waterfalls on Kauai)
• ATV Tour to a Private Waterfall (this is a romantic adventure that feels like a secret getaway)
• Mountain Tubing (this is a low-key adventure down an old sugar cane canal)
• Luau Kalamaku (you can do a little train ride and feed farm animals before the luau)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Kauai Resorts/Hotels

• Grand Hyatt Kauai (this Poipu resort has a luxurious pool area, romantic restaurants, and a stunning ocean view)
• Koloa Landing Resort (this is a luxury resort with an amazing pool area and truly spacious rooms)
• Royal Sonesta Kauai (we LOVE the pool here because it’s the largest one in Hawaii)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?

One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Click here for step-by-step Kauai travel planning help

What is it like to take a helicopter tour of Kauai?

Do you remember that iconic moment in the original  Jurassic Park  movie  when they are approaching the island in a helicopter, and the dramatic theme music plays as they fly along the prehistoric-looking coast?

That’s exactly what it feels like during helicopter tours of Kauai.

Because that is exactly what you are doing!

That scene from Jurassic Park was actually filmed on the approach to the Na Pali coast, on Kauai’s North Shore, which is one of the two main reasons to take Kauai helicopter tours.

Na Pali is only viewable  by boat  or by Kauai helicopter rides, and if you want the most epic view of the landscape, a helicopter is the way to go.

The other reason to take a helicopter tour? Waimea Canyon. The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

It is possible to see parts of Waimea Canyon by a combination of driving and hiking, but you will only get a hint of the wonder of this ten-mile-long canyon.

But flying through the canyon, past countless waterfalls, and seeing the jungle sprawled out below you – that is how you truly come to appreciate the sheer size and grandeur of Waimea Canyon.

Taking a tour of Kauai by air is an experience that you will not forget.

What is the process for taking a Kauai helicopter tour?

First, you will want to book it ahead of time for your Kauai vacation.

Yes, there are plenty of tour operators that you can find around the cruise ship terminal in Lihue that are happy to take same-day bookings.

But you will really want to do your research ahead of time and choose a reputable operator.

We went with  Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours  for their vast experience and impeccable safety record and because they are one of the very best helicopter tours for private tours.

When you arrive, you’ll go through a safety briefing, and then you’ll head out to meet your pilot at the airfield.

They will get you all buckled up, go over any last-minute safety reminders, and then you’re off! The vertical take-off is thrilling and nerve-wracking, but within minutes you are out over the jungles of the island.

Most Mauna Loa helicopter tours are in the 45-60 minute range, although you can find longer ones.

While some of the sites that they visit may vary, you can bet that every tour is going to show you Waimea Canyon, the rugged Na Pali Coast, and  Manawaiopuna Falls .

There are even tours available that stop midway through for a picnic and photo op!

What are the types of Kauai helicopter tours available?

When you are looking to book a helicopter tour, you will have a few options. You’ll first need to choose if you want to share the helicopter with other people or book a private tour.

Shared tours usually have 6 passengers. And while this doesn’t seem like much, it is possible that you will have your view impaired by another passenger.

If you are hoping to get good photographs of this for your Kauai vacation, this is particularly worrisome.

Some of the best Kauai helicopter tours are better than others for visibility, so read about the particular helicopter for any flight you are considering booking.

You also might not get seated next to your travel partner. They balance the helicopter for weight, so you will not have any say in where you sit.

The next thing you’ll need to choose is whether or not you want doors on your helicopter.

Opting for a Kauai doors-off helicopter tour gives you the advantage of having a better view and not getting any glare on your photos. It’s windier and sometimes a bit wet!

But Kauai doors off helicopter tours give you an unparalleled view of the scenery and make you feel much closer to the landscape.

If having the doors off seems inherently scarier, remember – it is not the doors that are keeping you safe. It is your seat harness and the skills of your pilot.

It will be imperative that you do not have any loose items on you when you fly. Cameras will need to be strapped to your body.

We opted for the private, doors-off tour.

While this was a splurge for us, we figured it was probably the only time we would ever do a helicopter tour, and we wanted to do it the best way we could.

We have not regretted this decision once! The best Kauai helicopter tours are pricey either way. May as well make the most of it on this stunning Hawaiian island!

Can you bring kids on a Kauai helicopter tour?

Yes, although the age requirements will vary by the tour operator.

Some operators have a minimum age of around 7, while others will allow children of any age, including lap infants (under 2), for free. Lap infants will not have a seat belt, however.

If you are traveling with young children, you will really want to think about if they will be able to handle sitting buckled into an adult-sized harness for an hour, especially considering they might not even be able to see past other passengers.

You also might not get seated next to your child, depending on the weight distribution, although most operators will try to seat families together when possible.

When we visited, we were  traveling with a baby  and a toddler. We ended up using a  local babysitter agency  and turned it into a wonderfully memorable half-day date.

  Are Kauai helicopter tours safe?

This is undoubtedly a question that has crossed your mind if you are considering helicopter rides in Kauai.

And given a few high-profile helicopter crashes in the last few years – including one on Kauai – it is only natural to be nervous.

Of course, there is always risk in something like a helicopter flight. They are statistically more dangerous than a commercial airplane flight, although they are less dangerous than flying in a private plane.

Tour-operated helicopters are significantly safer than private helicopters, as well.

Helicopter flight has become much less risky over the past few decades, but there are occasional incidents.

Of the Hawaiian islands, Kauai has seen the highest number of helicopter crashes, although they are still incredibly rare.

Ensure that you choose a reputable tour operator that adheres to the highest level of safety standards. Expect that if there is adverse weather, your tour will be canceled.

For this reason, it is a good idea to book your helicopter flight early in your trip so that you can reschedule if needed!

We never felt unsafe during our helicopter tour. The flight was smooth, and we were impressed with our pilot’s level of experience.

Is a Kauai helicopter tour worth the money?

Without a doubt, yes!

The breathtaking scenery of the NaPali Coast and Waimea Canyon are best viewed from the air, especially a bird’s eye view!

There is no better way to experience the natural wonder of the Garden Isle than by flying above the jungle in a Kauai island helicopter.

It is a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience that you will treasure, along with incredible photos, especially if you choose a doors-off tour.

If you are coming to Kauai, I highly recommend taking a few hours out to see the beauty that this island has to offer!

Top Helicopter Tours on Kauai

Kauai eco adventure helicopter tour.

This is a 50-minute Kauai helicopter ride in a new Eurocopter Eco-Star, which is much quieter than other helicopters on Kauai.  Check out the latest prices and more details.

Private Kauai Helicopter Tour with No Middle Seats

This Kauai helicopter tour is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the major perk is that only your party participates, AND everyone gets a good window seat.  Check out the latest prices and more details.

Hughes 500 Helicopter Tour

For another fun ride on one of the island helicopters, try this Hughes 500 helicopter tour! No middle seats, and up to four guests can enjoy this ride. You will pretty much see the entire island with this experienced pilot. Check out the latest prices and more details.

Best Kauai Helicopter Tours FAQs

Absolutely! You will get to see stunning views of the island that you would not see otherwise. It is the perfect way to explore Kauai’s finest places and is an excursion you don’t want to miss out on.

The flight tie is different for each tour. Some are 30 minutes long, while others go over an hour. It all depends on who you book with.

Manawaiopuna Falls, the NaPali coast with its sea cliffs, where they filmed Jurassic Park, Waimea Canyon, Hanapepe Valley, Olokele Canyon, and so much more of Kauai’s natural beauty!

Dani runs things over at  Diapers in Paradise , a family travel blog focused entirely on travel with babies and toddlers. With destination guides that center around the needs of parents of little ones, and a library of helpful tips and tricks for minimalism-inspired travel with babies, her goal is to help you prepare to have the best trip ever,  because of  (not  in spite of ) bringing the baby.

Looking for more Kauai Travel Resources? Find out my top  Kauai Vacation Planning Tips ,  Kauai Packing List ,  Best Kauai Waterfalls ,  Top Kauai Luaus ,  Kauai Food Tour , and the best  Kauai Food Trucks !

The post Is a Helicopter Ride in Kauai Worth It? Your Top Questions Answered appeared first on Hawaii Travel with Kids .