Ancient Rome Revealed: From the Forum to the Colosseum

Rome

3 hours

Easy

Overview

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the heart of ancient Rome with this immersive and expertly guided tour.
Your experience begins in Piazza del Campidoglio, a masterpiece of Renaissance urban planning designed by Michelangelo himself. From here, enjoy a panoramic view over the Roman Forum—one of the most iconic vistas in the city.

Step back in time as you explore the Basilica, the ancient markets, and the majestic Trajan’s Column, a marvel of imperial propaganda and engineering. Then follow a fascinating underground passage that leads to the Forum of Julius Caesar, where centuries of imperial ambition are revealed through layers of history. Emperors successively added temples, arches, and public spaces, making this area a true open-air archive of Roman civilization.

Continue your walk along the Via Sacra, the sacred road of Ancient Rome, in use for more than 2,500 years. Pass under the Arch of Titus, symbol of Roman military triumph, and climb the legendary Palatine Hill, where, according to tradition, Rome was founded in 753 BC. From this vantage point, enjoy sweeping views over the city and explore the sprawling ruins of the Imperial Palaces, once home to emperors and dynasties.

Your tour culminates with a close look at the Arch of Constantine and the most iconic monument of ancient Rome—the Colosseum. Learn about the architectural genius behind its construction, the dramatic spectacles that took place within its walls, and the stories of gladiators, wild beasts, and even mock naval battles that once captivated thousands.

This journey through ancient Rome is more than a tour—it's a vivid reawakening of history, bringing to life the legacy, power, and grandeur of the Roman Empire.

What to Expect

Piazza del Campidoglio

00186 Roma

Foro di Traiano

Via dei Fori Imperiali, Roma

Colonna Traiana

Via dei Fori Imperiali, Roma

Roman Forum

Via della Salara Vecchia 5/6, 00186 Roma

Palatine Hill

00186 Rome

Arch of Costantine

Via di San Gregorio, Roma

Colosseum

Piazza del Colosseo 1, 00184 Roma

Inclusions

Professional Licensed Local Guide (Blue Badge Certified) with in-depth expertise in Ancient Roman history
Guided small-group walking tour for a more intimate and engaging experience
Headsets are provided to ensure you can hear your guide throughout the tour (for groups where applicable)
Skip-the-line access and entry tickets included for:
Trajan’s Forum
Roman Forum
Palatine Hill
Imperial Forum
Visit to Piazza del Campidoglio, designed by Michelangelo, with panoramic views over the Forum
Walking route along the Via Sacra, passing the Arch of Titus
Commentary on the Arch of Constantine and Colosseum, the gladiator arena, and ancient construction techniques
Support from our on-site team, where needed

Exclusions

Hotel pick-up and drop-off (meeting point details will be provided after booking)
Food and drinks, unless specifically stated
Gratuities (not mandatory, but always appreciated)
Colosseum entrance tickets (can be added as an optional extra upon request)

Meeting points

Meeting/Starting Point
Piazza del Campidoglio

What to bring

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, please bring the following:

Valid photo ID or passport
Required for all participants and must match the information provided at the time of booking.
Comfortable walking shoes
The tour includes walking on uneven cobblestone paths, steps, and archaeological areas.
Appropriate clothing
Modest attire is required for access to certain historical or religious areas. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
Weather-appropriate gear
Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen during warmer months, or an umbrella/raincoat in case of rain.
Reusable water bottle
Especially recommended in summer months to stay hydrated.
Small backpack or bag
Only small to medium-sized bags are allowed inside the archaeological sites. Large bags, luggage, or bulky items are not permitted.
Booking confirmation
Printed or digital voucher may be required at check-in.

Know before you go

1. Identification and Entry Requirements

All participants must present a valid photo ID or passport.
The name and date of birth provided at the time of booking must match exactly with the ID shown on-site.
Without valid identification, access will be denied and no refund will be granted.
Student cards are not accepted as valid identification.
Children’s discounts apply only if a valid ID is provided.

2. Meeting Point and Mandatory Check-In Time

The meeting point is at Piazza del Campidoglio, beside the Statue of Marcus Aurelius.
Our staff will be wearing blue T-shirts with “Tour in the City” branding and will assist with check-in.
You must arrive at least 20 to 30 minutes before the scheduled start time.
The group may leave up to 15 minutes before the official start, due to organizational requirements.
Late arrivals cannot join the tour, and no individual tickets will be provided.
Latecomers may only rejoin by purchasing the activity again.

3. Security Screening and Site Access

For safety reasons, all visitors and bags are subject to mandatory screening.
You must place personal items (including phones) in your bag or tray during the security check.
Only small and medium backpacks are allowed. These will be opened, scanned, and inspected.

Prohibited items include:

Glass bottles and containers
Alcoholic beverages
Aerosol sprays
Knives or sharp objects
Bulky bags, luggage, camping gear
Selfie sticks

4. Tour Content and Format

This is a walking tour conducted by a licensed professional guide, and includes:

Exterior visit to the Colosseum (entry not included unless purchased separately)
Guided access to the Roman Forum, Imperial Forum, Palatine Hill, and Trajan’s Forum
Use of audio headsets (provided and collected at the end of the tour)
Tour duration: 2 to 3 hours

The tour is conducted in small groups, and the management uses one collective group ticket. Individual entry is not possible once the group enters.

5. Accessibility and Suitability

This tour is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Infants are not allowed to sit on laps, and infant seats are not available.
Pets are not allowed, unless certified as service animals.
If you or someone in your group has a mobility, hearing, visual or other impairment, you must inform us in advance so we can assess feasibility and suggest alternatives if available.

6. Site Closures and Weather Conditions

The Roman Forum Administration, under the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, reserves the right to close the Forum or parts of it at any time, with or without notice.
Reasons may include events, strikes, security issues, or adverse weather.
In such cases, we will offer an alternative itinerary and, if applicable, a partial refund.

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

7. Changes and Refund Policy

Booking changes are not accepted within 24 hours of the tour’s starting time.
All refund requests must be submitted at least 48 hours before the scheduled tour date.
After that point, no refunds will be issued.
Tickets are timed, dated, and non-refundable once issued.

Stroller/Pram accessible

Public transportation nearby