Rome Trajan Markets & Imperial Forum Private Tours Skip the Line
Ancient Rome from Above — A Journey Through Power, Commerce & Views!
Step into the heart of Imperial Rome with this exclusive private tour that unveils one of the most extraordinary and best-preserved archaeological complexes in the city — Trajan’s Markets, Trajan’s Forum, and the iconic Trajan’s Column.
Accompanied by your expert local guide, you’ll walk the ancient Via Biberatica, once the bustling commercial street of ancient Rome, and explore the hidden corridors and rooms where merchants sold their goods and administrators ran the empire.
But the real magic happens above: this tour grants you exclusive access to the upper terraces, offering panoramic views over the Imperial Forums and rooftops of the Eternal City — a perspective few visitors ever get to experience.
As your guide brings to life the stories of emperors, traders, and citizens who shaped Roman history, you’ll stand where ancient Rome once pulsed with power and purpose.
Whether you’re a couple seeking a unique cultural moment, a family looking for an educational yet fun activity, or a group of friends curious about the layers of Roman history, this private tour is designed to inspire and impress.
Don’t just see Rome. Live its history — from the ground to the rooftops.
Book your private tour today and travel back in time with us.
Exclusions
- Entry tickets to other archaeological sites or museums not mentioned in the tour
- Food and beverages (unless specified)
- Transportation to and from the meeting point
- Personal expenses or souvenirs
- Gratuities for the guide (optional but appreciated)
- Access to areas closed for restoration or safety reasons
What’s included
- Skip-the-line access to Trajan’s Markets
- Private guide just for your group
- Walk through ancient Roman shops and streets
- Access to breathtaking panoramic terraces
- Expert insights into the Imperial Forums from a one-of-a-kind viewpoint
PLEASE NOTE
- Public transportation nearby
Important Information and Accessibility
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, stroller users, or guests with walkers. It is also not recommended for individuals with motor difficulties. An adult must accompany children. Pets are not allowed.
If you have any disability (visual, hearing, or other) or a medical condition that may affect your participation, please inform our staff in advance so we can assess the feasibility of your participation.
Meeting Time and Attendance
Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before the scheduled tour time. Guests arriving more than 5 minutes after departure will not be admitted, and no refund will be issued.
Meeting point: in front of the Trajan Markets entrance.
Tickets and Entry Requirements
Trajan Markets tickets are dated, timed, and non-refundable. Entry is managed with a single group ticket; we cannot issue individual tickets to late arrivals. A valid ID (passport, driver’s license, or student ID) is required for entry. The name and date of birth must match your reservation. Child discounts apply only with a valid ID.
Security and Site Access
For safety reasons, all visitors and bags will be screened at security checkpoints.
Only small and medium-sized backpacks are allowed. All bags must pass through X-ray inspection. Prohibited items include: glass containers, alcoholic beverages, aerosols, knives, sharp objects, large bags, luggage, and trolleys.
Delays, Changes, and Cancellations
Minor time adjustments (approximately 20 to 30 minutes) may be made due to organizational needs. In the event of strikes, closures, or adverse weather, the itinerary or order of visits may be modified. The tour operator may offer a partial refund or an alternative solution when appropriate.
Access delays or site closures beyond our control (such as national holidays, security alerts, or capacity restrictions) are not eligible for refunds.
No changes to bookings are permitted after confirmation has been made. For urgent matters, please get in touch with us at +39 328 001 0018
What do I need to bring?
- Valid ID or passport (required for security checks, especially at archaeological sites)
- Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be walking on ancient stone paths and uneven surfaces
- Reusable water bottle – staying hydrated is key, especially in warmer months
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses – for protection during outdoor parts of the tour
- Camera or smartphone – for capturing unforgettable views
- Light jacket or layer – some areas may be cooler or shaded
- Curiosity and questions! – your guide loves engaging with curious minds
Cancellation policy
- We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 3 days or less before the event
Starting/Meeting Point Trajan’s Market
Trajan’s Market: A Living Testament to the Power of Ancient Rome
Hidden in plain sight along Via dei Fori Imperiali, Trajan’s Market is one of the most remarkable and well-preserved archaeological sites in all of Italy. Built under the direction of the ambitious Emperor Marcus Ulpius Traianus (53–117 AD), this vast complex stands as a monumental tribute to the greatness of Rome’s imperial age.
Excavated between 1924 and 1936, and meticulously restored in one of Italy’s most impressive historic preservation efforts, the market represents far more than just ancient ruins — it’s a living chronicle of Rome’s urban, political, and architectural evolution.
Originally conceived as a grand commercial and administrative hub, the complex spans six levels, once home to over 150 shops, offices, and apartments. It’s a rare example of vertical urban planning in the ancient world, unmatched in scale and function.
But the story doesn’t stop there. Over the centuries, Trajan’s Market has been transformed many times: it served as a strategic administrative center, a noble residence, a military fortress, a convent, and even barracks — each layer of history still echoing within its red brick walls.
Today, this extraordinary site hosts the Museum of the Imperial Forums. During a guided tour, visitors can explore the winding corridors, walk along the ancient Via Biberatica (the original Roman shopping street), and enter the very tabernae (shops) where everyday life once bustled with activity.
One of the highlights of the visit is the access to the upper terraces, offering a breathtaking panoramic view over the Imperial Forums and the rooftops of the Eternal City — a perspective that ties together past and present in a single glance.
Led by expert guides, the experience becomes not just a tour, but a journey through time — from the grandeur of Rome’s imperial age to its vibrant modern heart.
You can start this experience at the following places.
Trajan’s Market
94 Via IV Novembre, 00187 RM Roma, IT
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No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.
25 years of experience
Tour in The City was founded in 1990 in response to the ever increasing demand for customized guided tours, in order to visit one of the most important art collections in the World, the eternal city Rome.
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Testimonials
Hear From Our Happy Explorers!
Martin G
A hot visit to the Colosseum!
Had to collect tickets from a shop near to the Colosseum – lady there was most helpful in explaining where we needed to go and to download apps to our phones for the self audio guide (also gave us some free water with the heat!). Found the entrance easy and then enjoyed the tour – only issue was that the GPS signal wasnt great inside so it was difficult to sync the audio guide to what we were looking at. Took a break before doing the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum – we went on a very hot day and it was hard work walking around – make sure you have plenty of water!! Surfaces were very uneven – which is understandble considering its an ancient monument.
Martin G
FamilyOfFive
Amazing place to visit, weak audio guide
Such an amazing place to visit, it’s easy to understand why this is a must see! The sites were fantastic, but the audio tour was too generic. There were some interesting clips, but not enough about what we were looking at when we were at different points and too much generic history. In retrospect we would have got a lot more from a guide, but it was very nice to go at our own pace.
FamilyOfFive
Eva N
Unforgettable experience!
This tour was nothing short of amazing! From start to finish, everything was organized, engaging, and informative. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and brought the history of the Colosseum to life with fascinating stories, little-known facts, and a real passion for Ancient Rome.
The skip-the-line access was a huge plus—no waiting around in the hot sun! We also got upgraded for an Arena tour and got to explore areas that aren’t always open to the public, which made the experience feel exclusive and even more special.
Eva N
Poppy B
Very good customer service from Dolly
I was due to travel in August on this holiday however due to operational reasons, the tour may not have run and I was made aware straight away. I dealt with a women called Dolly and she offered me alternative options and we decided to refund the tour which was done promptly. Dolly gave me some brilliant advice and some useful insight to Rome.She was fab!
Poppy B
Tom P
Good day out
Really enjoyed the experience, can’t remember the tour guide’s name but he was very good. Very informative and detailed on the tour which kept me engaged about the history. It wasn’t as busy as usual which was also a pleasant experience. Highly enjoyable, many thanks.
Tom P
James C
Well worth it
Really well organised and our guide was great. Really informative and engaging. You wasn’t rushed and had a nice flow to it.
Would highly recommend this. Not sure you’d capture everything without the guide.
James C
Testimonials
Hear From Our Happy Explorers!
Martin G
A hot visit to the Colosseum!
Had to collect tickets from a shop near to the Colosseum – lady there was most helpful in explaining where we needed to go and to download apps to our phones for the self audio guide (also gave us some free water with the heat!). Found the entrance easy and then enjoyed the tour – only issue was that the GPS signal wasnt great inside so it was difficult to sync the audio guide to what we were looking at. Took a break before doing the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum – we went on a very hot day and it was hard work walking around – make sure you have plenty of water!! Surfaces were very uneven – which is understandble considering its an ancient monument.
Martin G
FamilyOfFive
Amazing place to visit, weak audio guide
Such an amazing place to visit, it’s easy to understand why this is a must see! The sites were fantastic, but the audio tour was too generic. There were some interesting clips, but not enough about what we were looking at when we were at different points and too much generic history. In retrospect we would have got a lot more from a guide, but it was very nice to go at our own pace.
FamilyOfFive
Eva N
Unforgettable experience!
This tour was nothing short of amazing! From start to finish, everything was organized, engaging, and informative. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and brought the history of the Colosseum to life with fascinating stories, little-known facts, and a real passion for Ancient Rome.
The skip-the-line access was a huge plus—no waiting around in the hot sun! We also got upgraded for an Arena tour and got to explore areas that aren’t always open to the public, which made the experience feel exclusive and even more special.
Eva N
Poppy B
Very good customer service from Dolly
I was due to travel in August on this holiday however due to operational reasons, the tour may not have run and I was made aware straight away. I dealt with a women called Dolly and she offered me alternative options and we decided to refund the tour which was done promptly. Dolly gave me some brilliant advice and some useful insight to Rome.She was fab!
Poppy B
Tom P
Good day out
Really enjoyed the experience, can’t remember the tour guide’s name but he was very good. Very informative and detailed on the tour which kept me engaged about the history. It wasn’t as busy as usual which was also a pleasant experience. Highly enjoyable, many thanks.
Tom P
James C
Well worth it
Really well organised and our guide was great. Really informative and engaging. You wasn’t rushed and had a nice flow to it.
Would highly recommend this. Not sure you’d capture everything without the guide.
James C
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