Best of Rome in a Day Private Guided Tour Including Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and Colosseum

After meeting your guide, your tour begins at the Colosseum, where you'll head to the interior of the arena for an exploration of Ancient Rome's largest amphitheater.

When your visit is over, follow your guide just outside for a look at the Arch of Constantine and the Roman Forum, the empire's central square and hub of political, religious, and social activity. See the 1st-century Arch of Titus, the House of the Vestal Virgins, the Temple of Saturn, the Senate House, and the white marble Arch of Septimius Severus.

Then via the Sacred Way, arrive at Capitoline Hill and the Vittoriano, one of the most beautiful monuments of modern Italy.

Next, continue your tour to the Trevi Fountain, seen in several films, including Fellini’s La Dolce Vita. To follow legend, throw a coin in the fountain and make a wish that someday you’ll return to Rome.

Then it’s time for a rest and lunch (own expense); there is a variety of restaurants you can choose from, whether you're in the mood for pizza, a sandwich, or a nicer 3-course meal. After eating, head to the Government District, where you’ll see the Parliament Building, the Palace of the Council of Ministers, and the Column of Marcus Aurelius. The historic Temple of Hadrian is nearby; Emperor Antoninus Pius built the grand edifice in honor of his predecessor. T

Then follow a narrow avenue to see the Pantheon, where Raphael, the Renaissance architect and painter, lies entombed.

Continue on to Piazza Navona by way of the Ancient Baths of Nero, and admire the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini.

Your final destination is the Vatican, which sits across the Tiber River.

During your visit of the Vatican Museums ,you’ll enjoy a tour of Michelangelo’s most famous works, including the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, plus Raphael’s frescoes and the apartments of the pope.

The tour proceed to St. Peter’s Basilica where you will explore the numerous side chapels with their hidden crypts. You will see Michelangelo’s Pietà and your guide will explain why this is the only work that he signed. You will gain an appreciation of the mastery that went into the creation of Bernini’s altarpiece and learn how Michelangelo triumphed over his contemporaries for the honour to paint St. Peter’s magnificent dome.