Rome is one of the most remarkable cities in the world, and exploring it on your own only gives you a glimpse of its grandeur. By joining a guided tour, you can uncover the rich stories and beauty of the Eternal City with the help of knowledgeable experts who can also assist you in skipping the long lines at major attractions.
However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right tour. We’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best tours in Rome, including private, large, and small group options to suit your budget and preferences.
Our Top 5 Tours in Rome
- Colosseum Tour – Explore the stunning arena and step inside one of the world’s most iconic monuments with LivTours, which offers various tours, including options for the Arena Floor, Gladiator Gate, or Domus Aurea. Use code UntoldItaly for a 5% discount.
- Vatican Museums – Join the early morning Walks tour to bypass the crowds and appreciate the Sistine Chapel in peace.
- 10 Tastes of Rome Food Tour by Withlocals – Experience the ultimate food tour featuring classic Roman dishes with an expert local guide who will share culinary secrets.
- Rome in a Day – Short on time? Join this efficient tour by LivTours that covers all the highlights such as the Colosseum, Vatican, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Navona. Get 5% off with code UntoldItaly.
- Day Trip: Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast – If you want to visit Pompeii and are pressed for time, this Take Walks tour explores the ancient city and includes a stop at the picturesque Amalfi Coast, offering a glimpse into one of Italy’s most beloved regions.
Best Tours of Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
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While it may be tempting to buy tickets to the Colosseum and explore on your own, having a knowledgeable tour guide can truly enrich your experience. They will share captivating stories about gladiators, emperors, battles, and looting, transforming your visit from merely observing ruins into an engaging journey through history. For instance, we could have easily overlooked Julius Caesar’s tomb without our guide’s insight! Your Colosseum entry ticket also grants access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, both of which are packed with historical significance.
This expansive area is steeped in the history of Ancient Rome. With a guide, you’ll navigate the fascinating ruins and discover just how much this civilization has influenced our world, even after its fall over 2,000 years ago. The Colosseum is open daily from 08:30 until 16:30 (extended hours until 19:15 from April to the end of August), except on December 25th and January 1st. Expect to spend around 2-3 hours, or a half day, exploring this area, as most tours last at least 2 hours.
Basic Skip-the-Line Colosseum Tours
The simplest option is a skip-the-line tour that comes with an audio guide. This self-paced experience allows you to enjoy a narrated commentary for about an hour, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. Just be sure to return the audio guide at the specified time.
Where to Buy Tour Tickets
NOTE: Co-op Culture will soon be replaced as the official ticket provider. We will update you with new provider information once it is confirmed.
NOTE: Tickets for this basic Colosseum tour can only be purchased 3-4 weeks prior to your visit.
Large Group Tour of the Colosseum and Ancient Roman Sites
Explore the Ancient Roman sites, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on a 3-hour skip-the-line tour. This popular group tour (up to 30 people max) is highly rated and is perfect for those on a budget who still want to learn about this fascinating part of Rome. You’ll have headsets provided so you can hear the guide clearly at all times. >> Click here for more details.
Recommended Small Group Colosseum Tours
If visiting the Colosseum has always been your dream, consider a small group tour to fully immerse yourself in the experience. You’ll enjoy VIP access to this iconic monument alongside a passionate guide who will share captivating tales of gladiators and the crowds that once filled the arena more than 2,000 years ago.
Our top recommendation is LivTour’s Colosseum Tour with Underground, Arena, Gladiator Gate, and Roman Forum (plus enjoy a 5% discount with code UntoldItaly).
Colosseum at Night
For history enthusiasts, unique tour options are available to experience additional parts of the arena. Spaces are limited, so book early! The Take Walks Colosseum at Night tour is particularly enchanting, allowing you to see the monument illuminated by moonlight, and even venture underground for a gladiator’s view of the arena. >> Click here for tour details.
Colosseum Virtual Reality Tour
As someone enthusiastic about technology, the virtual reality tour of the Colosseum is at the top of our list for our next visit. This state-of-the-art experience vividly replicates the Colosseum in its former glory, making you feel as if you’re right there in the arena watching gladiators fight lions. Witnessing the contrast between the ruins and the recreated arena is truly extraordinary, and you’ll gain fascinating insight into the history behind this architectural marvel. >> Click for more info and tickets.
PRO TIP: Book tours in advance—at least 2 months prior for summer, late spring, and early autumn. Guided tours and attractions tend to sell out quickly during peak tourist seasons.
Best Tours of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica are likely on your must-see list when visiting Rome, and for good reason. You need to witness the remarkable works by Michelangelo and see one of the largest churches in the world for yourself. Many companies offer combined tours of both locations, but they can be visited separately as well.
If you’re traveling with young children, we recommend focusing on St. Peter’s Basilica first and saving the museums for later, as they are vast, requiring extensive walking and quiet time.
Be prepared for large crowds—these attractions are some of the most popular in the world. Long lines are common, so opting for a skip-the-line tour for the Vatican Museums and/or Basilica is advisable, unless you enjoy waiting in lines (which we do not!).
TIP: For our recommendations on the best value combined Vatican group tours, >> Click here.
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museum features one of the largest collections of art and artifacts in the world, with 54 galleries showcasing over 20,000 works of art. The most famous pieces include Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, which depict scenes from the Book of Genesis in the Bible.
The Vatican Museums are open Monday to Saturday from 09:00 to 18:00 (last entry at 16:00) and on the last Sunday of each month (except Easter Sunday, June 29, Christmas Day, and December 26) from 09:00 to 14:00 (last entry at 12:30). Additionally, during the summer months (May to August), special late-night openings are available on Fridays, though limited tickets are offered.
Consider your timing carefully, as mornings can be particularly crowded. If you’re an art enthusiast or seek to avoid the crush of tourists, take advantage of late Friday openings in the summer and early access tours year-round.
NOTE: Dress appropriately for the Vatican, as there are strict dress codes. Both men and women must cover their knees (i.e., no shorts) and shoulders.
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is stunning and worth visiting in its own right. Beyond the interior, you can also explore the Dome (Cupola) for breathtaking views of the city, as well as the Treasury Museums and Grottoes. The Basilica is open daily from 07:00 to 19:00 from April to September, and from 07:00 to 18:00 from October to March. On Wednesdays and Sundays, many tours may be restricted due to Papal Audiences. Allocate at least 3 hours for a visit to both the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
TIP: The most exclusive tour of the Basilica is the Scavi tour, which takes you through the excavations beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. This site is said to be the burial ground of St. Peter himself and permits only 250 visitors per day. Reservations are required well in advance. >> Click here for details.
Vatican Gardens
A visit to the Vatican gardens is included in some tour packages. These beautifully landscaped gardens feature grottoes, statues, and manicured lawns, providing a serene escape from the busy crowds.
Basic Skip-the-Line Vatican Museum Tours
The most basic Vatican experience is a skip-the-line tour with an audio guide. This self-paced tour allows you to listen to narration at your own pace, making it an ideal option for those on a budget.
Where to Buy Tour Tickets
Basic Skip-the-Line St. Peter’s Basilica Tours
While entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, you can pay a nominal fee to skip the line and join an audio-guided tour.
LivTours offers readers of Untold Morsels a 5% discount on all tours with the code – UntoldItaly. >> Browse tours.
Group Vatican Tour Including the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
This highly recommended 3-hour tour of the Vatican allows you to skip the line while exploring the intriguing history and secrets of past and current popes. The tour includes visits to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. Expect group sizes of approximately 25 people, with headsets provided for better hearing. >> Click for more info and tickets.
Recommended Small Group Vatican Tours
If you’re an art lover or desire a more personalized Vatican experience, choose small group tours from Take Walks. Their guides will help you navigate through crowds or even evade them altogether! Options include early morning access, Friday night tours in summer, and tours covering the major highlights as well as additional sites.
On our last trip, I participated in the Early Morning Vatican Tour, which granted us access to the museums before the day’s crowds arrived. After experiencing the overwhelming crowds during midday visits, I can confidently say that this exclusive access justifies the extra cost. You will enjoy 20 peaceful minutes in the Sistine Chapel with minimal distractions. It’s a breathtaking experience. >> Click here for tour details.
Some other small group options include:
- Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s + Catacombs – Popular 3-hour tour featuring the Vatican’s highlights along with visits to the catacombs and grottoes beneath the Basilica. >> Click for details
- Early Morning Small Group Vatican Tour – Highly rated tour on Viator that gives early access to the museums, avoiding crowds. >> Click for more information
Full Day Rome Tour
If you have just one day to explore Rome, consider booking a full-day tour with a guide who can help you maximize your time. When selecting a “Rome in a Day” tour, ensure it covers all major sights, including the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain. With efficient planning and skip-the-line access, which is only possible with a tour guide from LivTours, you can see it all in one day. >> Click for tour details (and get an additional 5% off with code UntoldItaly).
Best Rome Walking Tours
We always recommend first-time visitors embark on a highlights walking tour of Rome’s historic center. This approach allows you to familiarize yourself with the city, its ancient past, and its evolution through the ages. While there is no shortage of “free” walking tours available in Rome, be aware that they often consist of large groups and do not provide an intimate experience.
Additionally, keep in mind that these tours are only “free” if you do not tip the guide at the end. Since tips are essential for the guides’ income, a typical tip of around €10 per person is standard. A small group walking tour is a great way to appreciate highlights like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona. This format enables you to ask more questions and receive answers more clearly.
Recommended Rome Walking Tours
- Best of Rome Walking Tour – A perfect introduction to Rome in this top-rated 2.5-hour tour of the highlights, including the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Navona. >> Click here for more details
- Welcome to Rome Twilight Stroll (with Gelato!) – Wander through one romantic Roman piazza after another at dusk. Don’t forget to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain! >> Click here for tour info
A private guide can tailor the tour to your specific interests. We highly recommend Withlocals tours, which provide customizable itineraries priced similarly to small group tours.
TIP: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water with you on your walking tour.
Rome Sightseeing Tours
Bus Sightseeing Tours of Rome
For families with small children or those with mobility challenges, hop-on, hop-off bus tours are our top recommendation.
These bus tours allow you to explore the city’s major attractions while listening to a recorded commentary about each site. You can hop off at various stops to visit your favorite landmarks and rejoin the tour later.
Our favorite Rome bus tour also includes complimentary walking tours at the Vatican, Roman Forum, and Spanish Steps. Tickets are available for either 24 or 48 hours, starting from your first bus ride. >> Click here for tour times and prices. Note: This bus tour does not cover attraction entry fees.
PRO TIP: Take a full circuit of the bus route late in the afternoon or evening on your first day to get acquainted with the city.
Golf Cart Tour of Rome
If walking long distances is challenging, consider a private golf cart tour of Rome. These tours efficiently whisk you through the city so you can comfortably see the highlights and sights. Golf cart tours are customizable to fit your interests and needs and will even take you to some of Rome’s famous seven hills for breathtaking vistas that you might not reach on foot. >> Click here for more information.
Segway Tours of Rome
For something fun and different, a Segway tour offers a unique perspective of Rome. These tours typically last 2-3 hours and explore the history of the city and its ancient landmarks, allowing you to glide through small streets and alleyways safely away from traffic. This excursion is perfect if you’re young at heart or traveling with teenagers! >> Click here for ticket info and prices.
LivTours offers readers of Untold Morsels a 5% discount on all tours with the code – UntoldItaly. >> Browse tours.
Bike Tours of Rome
Although cycling around Rome can be challenging due to crowds and traffic, an electric bike tour of the Via Appia (Appian Way) is an excellent choice. This scenic area just outside Rome features ancient ruins, catacombs, and stunning natural landscapes. >> Click here for tour info and prices.
Rome Food Tours
Food tours and cooking classes provide a delightful way to immerse yourself in a city. After all your cultural explorations, you’re bound to work up an appetite! In Rome, we relished our culinary adventures through Trastevere, the Campo de’ Fiori market, and Testaccio, guided by Withlocals and Eating Europe.
We once brought our kids on such a tour, and it turned out to be a fantastic family activity! Feel free to read more about our foodie explorations in Rome. Avoid tourist traps and discover the city’s authentic food culture with these delightful experiences and food tours. Just remember to wear your stretchiest pants!
Unique Tours in Rome
Have you seen Roman Holiday with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck? Set in 1950s Rome, it features a romantic adventure as the stars explore the city on a Vespa scooter. You too can experience this charm by taking a Vespa tour around Rome!
The Vespa tour allows you to see all the major landmarks in a fun and thrilling way. If you’re hesitant about navigating Roman traffic, consider joining a convoy of classic Fiat 500s for a memorable tour instead. Having enjoyed a similar experience in a classic Citroen in Paris, we hope to try this thrilling adventure someday!
Rome Night Tours
Rome transforms into a beautifully illuminated city at night, with its striking monuments aglow and vibrant street performances energizing the atmosphere. If you prefer structured exploration, consider joining a night tour of Rome. Stroll from the Spanish Steps to Piazza Navona, stopping at the Trevi Fountain, which looks incredible at night.
For thrill-seekers, an after-hours tour of the catacombs and the Capuchin monk bone crypt offers a uniquely eerie experience. Additionally, for a truly unforgettable moment in Rome, consider attending an opera concert at the impressive Throne Hall of the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, where arias from iconic Italian composers like Puccini and Verdi are performed every Tuesday evening.
LivTours offers readers of Untold Morsels a 5% discount on all tours with the code – UntoldItaly. >> Browse tours.
Best Tours in Rome for Families
On our last family visit to Rome, we had an amazing time, largely thanks to the fantastic family tours we experienced at the Colosseum and exploring the hidden corners of Rome. If you’ve never tried touring with your kids on vacation, I strongly recommend it—it’s a fun way for them to learn and discover while enjoying quality family time. Family-oriented tour guides also know where to find the best gelato shops! While some tours we enjoyed are no longer available, here are some great alternatives.
Rome Family Tours
- Withlocals Family Tours in Rome – Kids go free on family tours with Withlocals, specifically designed with children in mind, incorporating stops for gelato and opportunities to run around. Whether your kids are interested in gladiators or pizza, there are plenty of activities to enjoy as a family. >> Click here to browse the tours
- Colosseum Family Tour for Kids – The Colosseum is bound to intrigue kids, making it an ideal spot for family fun. This tour includes engaging treasure hunts, interactive activities, and 3D reconstructions of ancient structures. >> Click here for details
- Vatican for Kids – We wouldn’t dream of visiting the Vatican Museums with kids without a knowledgeable guide. This highly-rated family tour is tailored for groups with children, ensuring your family has a pleasant experience while exploring the galleries. >> Click for tour information
- Family Sunset Tour – Discover the history of Rome while indulging in delicious pizza and gelato! This engaging tour showcases the major sights of the historic center and ensures lots of fun along the way. >> Click for tour information and booking
- Gladiator School! – Dress up and learn the ancient skills of a gladiator in this fascinating 2-hour lesson, which combines themes of history, sports, and loads of fun. Suitable for children aged 6 and older. >> Click for more information
Best Day Tours from Rome
While Rome has plenty to keep you entertained, consider these favorite guided day trips if you’re using the city as a base for your Italian journey.
Pompeii
Pompeii is a top destination for many visitors and is surprisingly easy to visit on a day trip from Rome. The ancient city, preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, invites exploration along its cobbled streets, providing insights into life nearly 2,000 years ago. You’ll discover an amphitheater, villas, official buildings, and even a vineyard. Many tour companies combine Pompeii with visits to Sorrento, Naples, or the Amalfi Coast. While it’s a long day, you can gain a taste of the southern regions of Italy. Here are our top recommended tours to Pompeii from Rome:
Tivoli – Roman Ruins and Renaissance Gardens
Except for Villa Borghese, parks and gardens are quite rare in Rome. A day trip to Tivoli provides an opportunity to bask in the sun while exploring the ruins of Emperor Hadrian’s villa, which was among the largest and most luxurious in Ancient Rome. Roam through the numerous baths and fountains of a former palace once regarded as more significant than Rome itself.
At Tivoli, you’ll also visit Villa D’Este, a Renaissance marvel adorned with exquisite fountains and lush gardens. >> Click for more info and tickets.
Day Trip to Tuscany
If you can’t stay in Tuscany, consider this day trip from Rome to take in breathtaking Tuscan landscapes, experiencing la dolce vita in the stunning Val D’Orcia. You’ll explore picturesque hill towns, fortresses, and vineyards during this tour, with a stop for lunch at a Montalcino vineyard where you can savor local wines. A visit to beautiful Pienza, one of Italy’s most charming towns, concludes your excursion before returning to Rome. >> Click here for view tour details.
Wine Tasting Tour in Frascati
While in Rome, indulging in local wines is a must! This wine tour takes you into the Frascati countryside, where you can delve into traditional winemaking practices. Marvel at the 200 acres of vineyards while learning about the history behind local wine production. After the tour, explore the vineyard and, of course, enjoy wine tasting! A farmhouse lunch is included in this half-day experience. >> Click for more info.
Umbrian Hill Towns Tour – Assisi and Orvieto
While Rome and other major Italian cities are fascinating, the hill towns will capture your heart. On a day tour from Rome, you can visit Assisi and Orvieto, passing through rolling hills and olive groves to reach these idyllic medieval towns. Explore the stunning basilicas and enjoy breathtaking views while sampling local delicacies such as olive oil, cheese, and wine. This is Italy at its most enchanting! >> Click for more info.
How We Chose the Best Tours in Rome
We recommend tours that we have personally experienced or those that have received strong endorsements from trusted sources. A few tour operators stand out for their thoughtfully designed tours and exceptional customer service. We wholeheartedly recommend:
- With Locals – Offering creative and affordable private tours, often at prices that rival small group tours. You can select from preset itineraries or create your own custom experience. All guides are licensed and available in numerous cities across Italy. One of our favorites is the 10 Tastes Food Tour, where you can taste Roman cuisine while enjoying cultural and historical insights along the way.
- LivTours – A family-run Italian company providing true small group tours with a maximum of six people. You can opt for classic Vatican and Colosseum tours or try their popular golf cart tour, as well as our favorite Vespa tour highlighting the best of Rome.
LivTours offers readers of Untold Morsels a 5% discount on all tours with the code – UntoldItaly. >> Browse tours.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, all the larger group tours we recommend are available for booking on GetYourGuide or Viator [see our full review of GetYourGuide here].
Tour Price Guide for Rome and Vatican
- €30 per person for a basic audio guide tour
- €40 – €50 per person for a large group tour
- €70+ per person for a small group tour
- €90+ per hour for an experienced private guide
Note: These prices assume entrance tickets are included and may vary based on the tour length and specific sites visited.
Guides to Rome and Italy
We are passionate about Rome and genuinely appreciate the tours we’ve taken, which have deepened our understanding of its incredible history and culture. Our experiences as students many years ago continue to enrich our visits, thanks to the knowledge shared by our Rome tour guides.
For additional insights on navigating Rome, feel free to check out our 5-Day Itinerary for the Eternal City, which covers all the major highlights as well as some hidden gems. If you’re planning a more extensive trip to Italy, take a look at our guide on organizing your travels, which includes invaluable information on travel logistics ranging from flights and trains to hotels and cultural tips. >> Click here for guide.
Disclaimer – Untold Morsels assists our readers with carefully curated product and service recommendations that enhance travel experiences. If you click through and purchase any of these items, we may earn a commission. All opinions are our own – please read our disclosure page for more details.
The creator, writer, and photographer behind Untold Morsels, Katy has been traveling and tasting her way around the globe since her teenage years.
Now a proud mother of twins, she hopes they embrace her love for great food, wine, and travel. Favorite destination: Italy
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