Private Tour(121 tours)
Small group(5 tours)
Transfer(13 tours)
Package tour(2 tours)
Private tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum with a friendly expert guide. Includes pre-booked Colosseum tickets for a stress-free entry
Walk inside the Colosseum with a private expert guide- Discover stories of emperors, senators, and everyday Romans
- Enjoy panoramic views and unforgettable photo opportunities
- Customize your visit with exclusive areas like the Arena and Undergrounds
- Perfect for travelers who want comfort, authenticity and a private experience
- Private licensed guide
- Colosseum tickets
- Roman Forum access
- Personalized itinerary and flexible pace
- Optional add-ons: Arena, Undergrounds, Palatine Hill, private transfer
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Description:
Step back in time and walk through the heart of Ancient Rome on this private Colosseum and Roman Forum walking tour, led by an officially licensed expert guide.
From the grandeur of the Colosseum to the political and religious center of the Roman Empire, this experience is designed to bring history vividly to life, at your pace, with Colosseum pre-booked access and personalized storytelling.
This is not just a sightseeing tour — it’s a deep, engaging journey into the world of emperors, gladiators, senators, and everyday Romans, enhanced by breathtaking views, iconic monuments, and the exclusive attention of your private guide.
Itinerary – What to Expect
The Colosseum – Rome’s Most Iconic Monument
Your private tour begins at the Colosseum, where you will meet your friendly, officially licensed guide. Thanks to pre-booked tickets and with your expert guide, you’ll have a stress-free entry, making the most of your time in Rome.
Inside the Colosseum, your guide will explain how this monumental amphitheater, inaugurated in 80 AD under Emperor Titus, hosted gladiator games, animal hunts, public executions, and even naval battles. Through vivid descriptions and historical context, you’ll discover how these spectacles reflected Roman society, power, and entertainment.
The Roman Forum – The Heart of Ancient Roman Life
Leaving the Colosseum behind, the tour continues into the Roman Forum, once the political, religious, and commercial center of ancient Rome. Walking along original Roman roads, you’ll see the remains of temples, basilicas, shops, and homes that formed the backbone of daily life in the empire.
Your guide will highlight how ordinary Romans lived, worked, worshipped, and socialized, offering insights that go beyond monuments and into the rhythms of ancient city life.
Layers of History and Archaeological Discoveries
As you explore the Forum, your guide will explain how Rome developed in layers over centuries, with new buildings constructed on top of older ones. You’ll learn how archaeologists uncovered these layers, revealing the city’s transformation from ancient times through the Middle Ages and beyond. This perspective makes Rome feel like a living, evolving city rather than a frozen ruin.
Panoramic Views and Photo Opportunities
Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Colosseum and the surrounding vast archaeological area. Your guide will point out the best spots for photos, offering unique angles and perspectives that most visitors miss.
Key Monuments of the Roman Forum
You’ll visit some of the most important and symbolic sites of Ancient Rome, including the Temple of Saturn, one of the oldest temples in the city, recognizable by its imposing Doric columns. The Curia, or Senate House, reveals where political decisions that shaped the Roman Empire were debated and enacted.
At the Temple of Vesta, dedicated to the goddess of the hearth, you’ll learn about the sacred fire guarded by the Vestal Virgins, while the nearby House of the Vestals offers a rare glimpse into religious life and the daily routines of these powerful priestesses.
Trajan’s Column – A Stone Chronicle of War
The tour concludes with Trajan’s Column, a masterpiece of Roman art and propaganda. Its spiral relief tells the story of Emperor Trajan’s victories in the Dacian Wars, scene by scene, offering an extraordinary visual narrative carved in stone.
Extensions and Customizations
Optional Extension: Colosseum Arena and Undergrounds
For an even more immersive experience, you may also add a visit to the Colosseum Arena and Undergrounds. These restricted areas reveal where gladiators prepared for combat, animals were kept, and complex machinery powered the shows.
The underground level showcases an advanced system of pulleys, trapdoors, and lifts, highlighting the engineering genius of ancient Rome. Walking onto the arena floor lets you experience the Colosseum from the same viewpoint as the gladiators.
Please note that availability for the Undergrounds is limited. If tickets are unavailable, the cost of this option will be fully refunded.
Optional Extension: Palatine Hill
If you wish to enrich your experience further, you can add an extra hour to visit the Palatine Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome and the legendary birthplace of the city. This area became the most prestigious residential district of ancient Rome, home to emperors and aristocrats.
You’ll explore the remains of imperial palaces such as the Domus Tiberiana, Domus Augustana, and Domus Flavia, while enjoying stunning panoramic views over the Roman Forum. To include Palatine Hill, simply select the option in the reservation box.
Optional Private Transfer
If you prefer maximum comfort, we can also arrange a private hotel pick-up (and/or return to the hotel at the end) with a professional driver, allowing you to arrive stress-free and on time. This optional service can be added during the booking process.
Why Choose This Tour
- Private, officially licensed guide focused entirely on you
- Pre-booked tickets to the Colosseum for a smoother experience
- In-depth storytelling that brings Ancient Rome to life
- Flexible itinerary with optional extensions
- Ideal balance between history, culture, and unforgettable views
Who Is This Tour For
- First-time visitors who want a great introduction to Ancient Rome
- History lovers seeking deeper insights beyond standard group tours
- Families looking for a fun and educational experience
- Couples wanting a private and engaging visit
- Travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance
Book Your Private Ancient Rome Experience
Book your private Colosseum and Ancient Rome tour online in just a few clicks, or contact us to customize the itinerary with additional time, special access areas, or private transfers. We’ll be happy to tailor the experience to your travel style.
FAQs – Private Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour
How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts approximately 3 hours. Optional extensions can be added.
Are skip-the-line tickets included?
Based on the new Colosseum regulations introduced in January 2026, tour operators cannot sell and are not allowed to use the definition "skip-the-line tickets". We pre-book and purchase in advance all admission tickets to the Colosseum to ensure the easiest entry.
Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, the tour is fun and educational and can be adapted for children and teenagers.
Can I add the Arena, Undergrounds, or Palatine Hill?
Yes, these options can be selected during the booking process, subject to availability.
Is the tour accessible?
Some areas involve uneven surfaces. Please contact us to discuss specific accessibility needs.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Sun protection is advised in warmer months.
Does the tour run in all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine.
Can I see the Colosseum if I’m arriving on a cruise in Civitavecchia?
Yes. The Colosseum can also be visited as part of our private Rome shore excursion from the port of Civitavecchia, designed specifically for cruise passengers. The tour includes private transportation, pre-booked access, and a carefully timed itinerary to ensure you return to your ship on time. See here: Rome Shore Excursion from the port
Is the Colosseum included in a Rome in One Day tour?
Absolutely. The Colosseum is one of the main highlights of our Rome in One Day private tour, which covers the city’s most iconic sites in a single, well-paced experience. This option is perfect if you want to see Ancient Rome alongside other must-see landmarks such as the Vatican, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps. See here:
Which option is better if I have limited time in Rome?
If you are visiting Rome for just one day, our Rome in One Day tour offers the most comprehensive overview. Cruise passengers will benefit from our Civitavecchia shore excursion, while travelers staying in Rome may prefer this dedicated Colosseum and Ancient Rome walking tour for a deeper historical focus.
Can these tours be customized?
Yes. Both the Rome in One Day tour and the Civitavecchia shore excursion can be customized based on your interests, timing, and travel style. Just contact us and we’ll be happy to tailor the experience for you.
Included:
- Private guide officially licensed
- Pre-booked Colosseum tickets
Not included:
- Food
- Drinks
- Private transportation (optional)
Languages:
Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin
Meeting point:
Near the Colosseum. Detailed intructions and map will be emailed.
Duration:
3 Hours
Dress code:
We suggest to wear comfortable shoes and during summer months a hat to protect from sun. Do not take backpacks and large bags as they are not allowed and there is no cloakroom to leave them.
Options:
Private Hotel Pick-up
Private Hotel Pick-up and Return
Palatine Hill Extension
Colosseum Extension: Underground and Arena
