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VIP Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Guided Tour

4.7(1,747)RomeFree cancellationBest sellerLikely to sell out

About this activity

Step back in time on our expertly guided tour of Ancient Rome’s iconic sites: the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. With faster access, the comfort of a small group, and insights from an expert guide, this best-value experience offers a deep dive into the Eternal City’s past, all in just 3 unforgettable hours. Your adventure begins inside the Colosseum, where you'll hear stories of gladiators, emperors, and ancient engineering marvels. You’ll get answers to your questions, plus enjoy sweeping views from above the arena that most visitors miss. Next, we’ll head up Palatine Hill, the mythical birthplace of Rome and home to its grandest imperial palaces. Then descend into the Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of Roman politics and daily life. With a streamlined itinerary and small group size, this tour offers comfort, insight, and unbeatable value. Spots are limited! Book now to experience Ancient Rome like never before.

Highlights

    What's included

    • Colosseum entry ticket and reservation fee included (€18–€24 value)
    • Admission to the Colosseum Arena Floor (if option selected)
    • Personalised, group experience offering top-rated value and comfort
    • Expert storytelling from a licensed historian guide with headphones provided
    • Admission to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum (if option selected)

    Not included

    • Access to the arena floor (unless selected, available for an additional fee)
    • Food and Beverages

    Itinerary

    1. Colosseum

      Retrace the steps of the gladiators, accompanied by engaging stories from your expert guide. Learn about the social status of spectators, the norms of ancient entertainment, and the gladiatorial games that captivated audiences. Your guide’s storytelling will bring the monument to life. Please note: we may begin with the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill, depending on ticket availability.

      1 hourAdmission includedSee on map

    2. Palatine Hill

      The Palatine Hill

      The Palatine Hill is one of Rome’s most important and beautiful hills and is a highlight of any city tour. With your guide, explore the birthplace of one of history’s greatest civilizations and the ancient ruins of the Imperial Palace, surrounded by pine trees and views of the Circus Maximus and the Roman Forum below.

      30 minutesAdmission includedSee on map

    3. Roman Forum

      To understand life in Ancient Rome, visit the Forum. In the city’s political, social, and commercial heart, you will walk the Via Sacra and the Via Nova, weaving around arches and towering temples. See the Senate House and the remains of the Rostra, where Senators made laws and orators addressed the public. Learn about the myth-shrouded Romulus and Julius Caesar from your expert guide. Although less than half of the Forum remains today, your guide will share their extensive knowledge to bring the ancient city to life.

      45 minutesAdmission includedSee on map

    Meeting point

    Please meet your guide in front of the Arch of Constantine. They will be holding a yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag or sign. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour start time. Late arrivals unfortunately cannot be refunded.

    The map shows Rome. The exact meeting point is the address above.Open larger map

    Pickup

    • Everyone meets at the start point

    Drop-off

    • The tour will either finish in the Roman Forum or the Colosseum, depending on which monument we start with, where you will be left to either leave or spend more time exploring the area.

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Please provide the full names of all travellers when booking. Tickets must match these names; failure to present a voucher with all travellers’ full names at the ticket office may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
    • Each traveller must present a valid passport or ID matching the name provided at booking for entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
    • Tour order may vary: we will start with either the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill depending on ticket times.
    • Colosseum admission is free on the first Sunday of each month. Tours are discounted on these days.
    • Want an upgrade? Check out these other options: VIP Colosseum Tour (12pax), Colosseum Express Arena Tour (24pax)
    • Mobile or paper ticket accepted
    • One per booking
    • Meet your guide at the Arch of Constantine near the Colosseum. They will be holding a yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag or sign. Bring a valid ID for all travelers. If you are accompanying children, please show proof of parental or guardian status, and ensure children have identification. Provide the full names of all travelers, including yourself and any co-travelers, when booking. Tickets must match these names to gain entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

    Cancellation and refunds

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

    If you cancelRefund
    At least 1 days before100%
    Between 0 and 1 days before0%
    • Cancelled and fully refunded if the weather makes it unsafe
    • Cancelled and fully refunded if too few travellers book
    Supplied by
    Carpe Diem Tours
    Product code
    109384P5

    Customer reviews

    4.7 · 1,747 reviews
    4.7
    1,747 reviews
    • 5 ★1496
    • 4 ★109
    • 3 ★55
    • 2 ★23
    • 1 ★64

    Ratings from Viator 4.7 (1552) · Tripadvisor 4.7 (195)

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    $79$73per person