Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour of Ancient Rome
Colosseum Guided Tour: Discover Rome’s Most Iconic Landmark Through the Eyes of an Expert
Begin your unforgettable Roman adventure by stepping into the legendary Colosseum, the most iconic symbol of the Eternal City. This exclusive guided tour, ideal for families, history lovers, and curious travelers of all ages, turns ancient ruins into a vivid storytelling experience led by a licensed expert guide specializing in Roman art, history, and archaeology.
Walk in the footsteps of emperors, spectators, and gladiators as you explore the world’s largest ancient amphitheater. Uncover the secrets of Roman engineering and discover how this colossal structure—built nearly 2,000 years ago—was designed to host up to 50,000 roaring spectators for breathtaking public events.
As you stroll through the Colosseum’s original tiers, your guide will bring history to life with tales of gladiator battles, wild animal hunts, and even mock naval battles once staged inside the arena. You’ll learn how trapdoors, lifts, and underground corridors operated with remarkable precision, creating spectacular shows long before modern technology existed.
This is more than a tour—it’s an immersive behind-the-scenes journey into the dramatic lives of the gladiators. Visit the holding areas where they awaited combat, hear how the games were orchestrated to entertain and manipulate the masses, and understand the complex social hierarchy that played out in the stands—from elite Roman senators to the cheering lower classes.
Want to know where exotic animals were kept, how executions became public spectacles, and what it truly meant to be a gladiator in ancient Rome? This tour uncovers it all—without the lines, without the crowds, and with a deeper layer of insight than a typical visit.
And this is just the beginning.
From the Colosseum, the tour continues into the heart of Ancient Rome, connecting you with the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the birthplace of the Roman Empire itself.
Planning Something Special? Let’s Make It Unforgettable
We are proud to offer fully customizable private tours on request — perfect for:
- Corporate events and incentives
- School and university groups
- VIP experiences
- Family celebrations
- Wedding proposals, anniversaries, and more
Whether you’re planning a team-building day, a themed educational visit, or a once-in-a-lifetime private experience, our team can design a tailor-made tour just for you.
Contact us directly to customize your event or group experience.
What’s included?
- Priority access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
- Guided tour with a licensed, professional archaeologist or art historian
- Headsets for optimal listening (for groups over a certain size)
- Access to the Colosseum arena floor (if specified in the tour option)
- Guided exploration of: The Colosseum (including first and second levels) The Roman Forum (Via Sacra, Temple of Julius Caesar, Arch of Septimius Severus, and more) The Palatine Hill (Imperial Palaces and legendary founding site of Rome)
- Free time for photos and questions with your guide
Exclusions
- Tip or gratuity
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Colosseum Underground and Arena Level
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. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 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:
Piazza di San Clemente, in front of the basilica. Look for our staff with a “Tour in the City” sign. There is no need to collect tickets in advance—your name will be on our list.
Tickets and Entry Requirements
Colosseum 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. The Colosseum has a maximum capacity of 3,000 people at a time. Even with skip-the-line access, delays may occur due to crowd control and security measures.
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?
- A valid photo ID or passport (required for security checks at the Colosseum)
- Comfortable walking shoes – the tour involves uneven terrain and cobblestones
- Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (especially in summer)
- A refillable water bottle – water fountains are available on site
- Weather-appropriate clothing – light layers in warm months, umbrella or rain jacket in case of rain
- A small backpack or crossbody bag – large bags and suitcases are not allowed
- Booking confirmation (printed or digital) for check-in
Cancellation policy
- Bookings are non-refundable. All sales are final.
Meeting/Starting Point
The meeting point is in the Piazza of San Clemente, in front of Basilica San Clemente. The staff will have a signboard reporting ‘Tour in the City’.
Colosseum Tour
Colosseum Guided Tour: Discover Rome’s Most Iconic Landmark Through the Eyes of an Expert
Begin your unforgettable Roman adventure by stepping into the legendary Colosseum, the most iconic symbol of the Eternal City. This exclusive guided tour, ideal for families, history lovers, and curious travelers of all ages, turns ancient ruins into a vivid storytelling experience led by a licensed expert guide specializing in Roman art, history, and archaeology.
Walk in the footsteps of emperors, spectators, and gladiators as you explore the world’s largest ancient amphitheater. Uncover the secrets of Roman engineering and discover how this colossal structure—built nearly 2,000 years ago—was designed to host up to 50,000 roaring spectators for breathtaking public events.
As you stroll through the Colosseum’s original tiers, your guide will bring history to life with tales of gladiator battles, wild animal hunts, and even mock naval battles once staged inside the arena. You’ll learn how trapdoors, lifts, and underground corridors operated with remarkable precision, creating spectacular shows long before modern technology existed.
This is more than a tour—it’s an immersive behind-the-scenes journey into the dramatic lives of the gladiators. Visit the holding areas where they awaited combat, hear how the games were orchestrated to entertain and manipulate the masses, and understand the complex social hierarchy that played out in the stands—from elite Roman senators to the cheering lower classes.
Roman Forum
Begin your Roman adventure where legends were born—inside the colossal amphitheater that has defined the city’s skyline for nearly two millennia. With the guidance of a licensed expert in art and archaeology, you’ll discover the incredible ingenuity of Roman engineering and the cultural power of public entertainment in ancient times. Walk through the grand arches, stand where gladiators once stood, and uncover the hidden mechanics beneath the arena floor that made spectacular shows possible. From roaring beasts to thunderous crowds, every corner of the Colosseum tells a story of ambition, spectacle, and control.
But the journey doesn’t end there.
Just beyond the Colosseum lies the beating heart of ancient Rome: the Forum, a sprawling maze of ruins that once buzzed with political debates, religious ceremonies, and everyday life. Stroll along the Via Sacra, once the stage for victory parades, and explore temples, arches, and forgotten halls where the fate of an empire was written. Your guide will peel back the layers of stone and silence, revealing how power, belief, and ambition shaped a civilization that still influences the world today.
As you stand among the broken columns and time-worn marble, you won’t just be visiting ruins—you’ll be walking through the living memory of one of history’s greatest civilizations.
Palatine Hill
From the political heart of Rome, your path ascends to the Palatine Hill, where the story of the Eternal City began. According to legend, this is where Romulus founded Rome—and as you climb its slopes, it’s easy to understand why emperors chose this spot for their palaces. Surrounded by towering pines and sweeping views, the Palatine offers a peaceful contrast to the ruins below.
Wander through the remains of imperial residences, lush courtyards, and private stadiums that once hosted the elite of Roman society. Your guide will bring these quiet stones to life with stories of emperors, intrigues, and opulence—revealing how politics, myth, and architecture merged in the very foundations of Roman power.
As you take in the panoramic view over the Forum and Circus Maximus, you’ll understand why the Palatine isn’t just an archaeological site—it’s a place where myth and memory meet.
You can start this experience at the following places.
Piazza di San Clemente (in front of the entrance of the Basilica)
Piazza di San Clemente, 00184 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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Must-see attractions
Colosseum
The Colosseum, Rome’s legendary ancient arena, once echoed with gladiator battles and grand shows, and now stands as a powerful symbol of the city's eternal legacy.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is a masterpiece of Roman ingenuity, crowned by its iconic dome and central oculus, serving as a temple-turned-church for almost two millennia.
Roman Forum
Once the center of ancient Roman society, the Roman Forum is a vast archaeological park showcasing temples, civic buildings, and storied ruins.
Vatican City
Vatican City, the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church, holds a wealth of art, history, and faith, housing St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
Palatine Hill
Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s famed seven hills, was the site of imperial palaces and offers breathtaking views over the city and its ancient ruins.
Galleria Borghese
The Galleria Borghese, set within the lush Villa Borghese gardens, showcases a stunning collection of sculptures and paintings by masters such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica, the crown jewel of Vatican City, is a majestic architectural marvel housing Michelangelo’s Pietà and the soaring dome he masterfully designed.
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel, famed for Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring ceiling frescoes, is both a masterpiece of Renaissance art and the sacred setting of the papal conclave.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo, once Emperor Hadrian’s grand mausoleum, now serves as a museum with sweeping views of Rome and a rich history as a fortress and papal stronghold.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain, Rome's largest and most iconic Baroque fountain, is famed for its stunning sculptures.
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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