Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Private Tour
Description
Get a fully immersive Colosseum tour with a knowledgeable private guide and optional hotel private pick-up.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Visit the Colosseum, one of the largest structures of the ancient world, where Romans once gathered to watch the gladiator games, battles with wild beasts, and according to legend, sea battles. Discover how the Colosseum, a massive stone amphitheater which seated an estimated 60,000 spectators, was built in only 8 years. Your guide will unlock fascinating stories of the design and construction, the political benefit, the fighters, and the eventual end of the games at the Colosseum.
At the Roman Forum, your guide will bring to life the mythology, the popular celebrations of the time, and the gods of ancient Rome, which are reflected in the star signs in contemporary astrology. Learn how the pagan holiday Saturnalia influenced the unfolding of Christmas on the 25th of December today. Listen to the story of the Lapis Niger (Latin for ‘black stone’), the most ancient Latin text ever discovered in the world - which is housed in the foundation of a column in the Forum. Discover the Temple of the Vestal Virgins. They worked in the temple for a period of 30 years under different emperors and were regarded almost as goddesses in status. Their foremost duty was maintaining the sacred fire of Vesta which represented the heart of Rome. As legend has it - as long as the sacred flame burned, Rome would endure and be victorious.
Admire the view of the most important Triumphal Arch of Rome dedicated to the Famous Emperor Costantine. This Arch represents a turning point of the Roman History and Art, a dividing line between the rise of the Christians and the decline of the Roman Empire.
The Temple of Vesta (Latin Aedes Vestae; Italian: Tempio di Vesta) is an ancient edifice in Rome, Italy, located in the Roman Forum near the Regia and the House of the Vestal Virgins. The temple's most recognizable feature is its circular footprint. Since the worship of Vesta began in private homes, the architecture seems to be a reminder of its history. The extant temple used Greek architecture with Corinthian columns, marble, and a central cella. The remaining structure indicates that there were twenty Corinthian columns built on a podium fifteen meters in diameter. The roof probably had a vent at the apex to allow smoke release.
You will walk along this Piazza in order to access the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Nothing was added from the time of the Roman Empire, what you see, is more or less the view that the romans had in the past.
The Forum of Caesar (in Latin, Forum Iulium) is a forum which is part of the so-called Imperial Forums in Rome, where the first forum of this complex to be built. The construction began at 54 a. C., and was finished at 29 a. C. by Augustus. While the Forum of Caesar, underwent some renovations in time of Trajan and the year after the fire 283 d. C. Julio Cesar spent huge sums of money made in the campaign of Gaul (60 million sesterces as Cicero, according to Suetonius 100 million) to buy the land and expropriate private and demolish the buildings they occupied the area, and had also relocated to the Curia hostility and faces. Julio Cesar sent instructed Cicero buy land that would serve to build the forum. Roman law had such power that even the emperors could go over the contracts.
Admire the view of the famous Via dei Fori Imperiali, projected under the Government of Mussolini.
Not so far from the Forum stands the Palatine Hill. Be ready to climb it to enjoy a marvellous view of ancient Rome, and see the hill that gave birth to Rome, the Eternal City.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Pick up from hotel if centrally located (within the Aurelian Walls)
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues or those using a wheelchair
- Please provide the full names of all travelers when booking. Failure to present a voucher with all travelers' full names at the ticket office prior to entry may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
- Please be aware that to enter the Colosseum it is necessary to pass a metal detector security check
- Large bags and backpacks are not allowed
- Be prepared to climb uneven steps and explore an archaeological site - wear good shoes. Anticipate Rome's intense heat in the summer - you may want to bring a small umbrella to block the sun as well as unexpected, sudden rainfall
- Each traveler must present a valid passport or photo ID document that matches the name provided at the time of booking for successful entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
- Closed-toe, non-slip shoes are required for safety. Access to the Colosseum may be denied without proper footwear.
- To ensure the safety and well-being of all our guests, every reservation that includes minors (under 18) must be accompanied by at least one adult. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bookings made exclusively by unaccompanied minors.
- Colosseum and Roman Forum entrance with arena access (valued at €24 per person)
- Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)
- Colosseum and Roman Forum entrance(valued at €18 per person)
- Please note: Colosseum fees as above. The remaining cost of the experience...
Reviews(760)
Our private tour of Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum and the Colosseum with Valeria was truly one of the highlights of our trip to Rome. From the moment we met her, she made us feel welcome and transformed what could have been a simple sightseeing experience into an unforgettable journey through the heart of ancient Rome. We began our tour at Palatine Hill, where Valeria immediately brought the history and legends of Rome to life. Her storytelling helped us understand the significance of this incredible site and its connection to the origins of the city, the emperors who called it home, and the events that shaped Roman civilization. From there, we continued into the Roman Forum and Valeria’s knowledge and passion truly stood out. She explained how this remarkable area served as the center of Roman public life, politics, religion and culture. Her ability to connect the ruins to the people and events of the past made the experience much more meaningful than simply viewing ancient stones and structures. We finished our tour at the Colosseum, where Valeria captivated us with stories of gladiators, emperors and the incredible engineering behind one of the world's most iconic landmarks. Her explanations helped us imagine what life was like nearly 2,000 years ago and gave us a much deeper appreciation for this extraordinary monument. Beyond her impressive knowledge, Valeria was warm, engaging and incredibly attentive. She carefully managed the pace of the tour, especially in the summer heat, making sure we stayed comfortable, took breaks when needed and reminded us to hydrate throughout the experience. Her thoughtfulness allowed us to fully enjoy every moment without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. A private tour with Valeria is truly the way to experience ancient Rome. Her passion, professionalism and ability to make history come alive made this an experience we will always remember. We highly recommend Valeria to anyone visiting Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. Thank you, Valeria, for sharing your knowledge and helping make our time in Rome so special!
Valeria will be deeply proud to read your words. Thank you for choosing CityEyes in Rome and for recognizing the passion, care, and professionalism that made your experience so special. Grazie, e arrivederci! Valeria, and the CityEyes Team
My husband and I had the privilege of taking a private tour of the Colosseum and the Forums on July 14. Our tour guide was Silvia. It was the best tour I think I have ever been on because Silvia is the best guide ever! We had just finished a cruise that began in Venice and ended in Rome, which was great, but we both agree that this tour was the highlight of our travels in Italy because of Silvia. Our tour was on one of the hottest days we could have chosen this summer, but it was an absolute joy. Her knowledge and personality just made the day very fun in spite of the heat. I hope the next time we are in Rome we will get to do another tour with Silvia.
Knowing this became the highlight of your travels in Italy is an extraordinary compliment. Thank you for choosing CityEyes and for such warm words about Silvia; we would be very happy to welcome you back in Rome for another tour with her. Grazie, e arrivederci! Silvia, and the CityEyes Team
Alessia was a wonderful guide, engaged with our teenage boys, and knowledgeable about history and fun facts to keep us all entertained. It was a hot day, so she made sure we weren't too worn out or tired, and we felt like we saw everything we wanted to see without being rushed. Highly recommended!
Thank you for choosing CityEyes and for recommending Alessia. We’re very happy your family felt engaged, comfortable, and never rushed. Grazie! Alessia, and the CityEyes Team
Our tour was perfect! It was our second tour with Elanora whom is the best!! Her knowledge of history and art is incredible!!
Having you return for a second tour with Eleonora is the kind of trust we value most. Thank you for choosing CityEyes again; she will love reading your words. Grazie, e arrivederci! Eleonora, and the CityEyes Team
Our guide had an amazing amount of knowledge he shared with us. He was patient and answered all my questions!
Thank you for choosing CityEyes and for your kind words. We truly appreciate them and hope to welcome you again on another tour. Grazie! The CityEyes Team
This was our Roman holiday splurge, and well worth it. There were 11 of us in our family, ranging from 4 years old to 76. Before we even started, the tour operator was in contact via WhatsApp to confirm pickup location and timing, which was very reassuring. We had black van service (2 cars) from our hotel to the meeting spot, and then our guide Maurizio was already there waiting for us. We started at 9am and the line and security into the Forum was only 5 minutes, although by the time we got to the Colossuem there was a slight wait for the group entry, but very manageable compared to the regular entry lines. The sites were well worth it, but what amplified the experience was Maurizio's passion and knowledge. He very patiently explained as much as he could to us, answered questions thoroughly, and actively engaged our 7 and 4 year olds. Pickup after our tour was smooth. We were very happy with our overall experience.
Thank you for trusting CityEyes with such a special family experience in Rome. Maurizio will be proud to read your words, and we’re very happy everything felt smooth, reassuring, and worthwhile from start to finish. Grazie, e arrivederci! Maurizio, and the CityEyes Team
Great tour of Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill. Recommend getting early start to avoid heat and crowds
Thank you for choosing CityEyes and for the recommendation. An early start in Ancient Rome can make all the difference, and we’re happy you enjoyed the tour. Grazie! The CityEyes Team
This company went above and beyond — hands down the best tour we took. Their communication was impeccable from start to finish, making sure every detail of the experience was amazing. Our guide Gio was so knowledgeable and engaging that after four hours exploring the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, we still wanted more time with her. She was that incredible! I can’t say enough good things about this tour. If you love Roman history, do not miss it.
“Best tour we took” is a compliment we will proudly carry. Thank you for choosing CityEyes and for sharing such generous words about Gio and our team. Grazie, e arrivederci! Gio, and the CityEyes Team
Manny was a fantastic guide. Friendly, passionate and explained the history of the Roma Forum and Colosseum in a way that kept us engaged and interested. He also took pictures for us and kept us in the shade. A joy to be around !
Manny will truly appreciate these words. Thank you for choosing CityEyes, and we hope to see you again in Rome. Grazie! Manny, and the CityEyes Team
Azzurra was absolutely fantastic! She helped our family (my wife and I plus 3 kids aged 24, 21 and 16) really get the most out of our visit to "Ancient Rome". The stories and history she shared, and the flowing narrative really brought our time alive for all of us and was the absolute highlight of our vacation in Italy.
Thank you for choosing CityEyes and for sharing such generous words about Azzurra. We’re honored that your family’s time in Ancient Rome became such a special memory from your trip to Italy. Grazie! Azzurra, and the CityEyes Team
