Rome Colosseum and Ancient Rome Exclusive Private Guided Tour
The Complete Ancient Rome Experience – Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Discover the essence of Ancient Rome on this exclusive private tour that brings together the three most iconic landmarks of the Eternal City: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill.
Begin your experience by skipping the long entrance lines and stepping directly into the mighty Colosseum. With your private guide at your side, explore the tiers of the world’s most famous amphitheater while uncovering the incredible engineering behind it and the brutal yet fascinating world of gladiator games, public executions, and imperial propaganda.
From there, continue your journey through time as you walk into the Roman Forum, the political and spiritual center of the ancient empire. Amid temples, arches, and basilicas, your guide will reveal how Rome functioned at the height of its power, where laws were passed, sacrifices made, and history written.
Finally, ascend to the Palatine Hill, the birthplace of Rome and the seat of its emperors. Explore the ruins of imperial residences and enjoy sweeping views over the Forum and Colosseum, as myth and archaeology blend into a powerful narrative of Rome’s origin and glory.
Throughout this 3-hour private tour, you’ll enjoy the freedom to move at your own pace, ask all the questions you like, and dive deeper into the aspects that interest you most. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this experience offers an unforgettable and authentic immersion into the grandeur of Ancient Rome.
This isn’t just a tour—it’s your gateway into the heart of Western civilization.
What’s included?
- Private guided tour (approx. 3 hours) led by a licensed, expert guide
- Skip-the-line tickets for:
Colosseum (1st and 2nd tiers)
Roman Forum
Palatine Hill - Tailored experience: flexible pace and attention to your interests
- Headsets (for groups of 6+ people) to ensure you can clearly hear the guide
- Assistance at the meeting point
Exclusions
- Tip or gratuity
- Access to the Colosseum Arena Floor, Underground, or Upper (3rd) Level
- Food and beverages
- Transportation to/from the meeting point
- Gratuities (optional)
- Entry to temporary exhibitions or sites not listed in the tour itinerary
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?
- Valid photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or government-issued ID) Required for all participants. The name must match the booking.
- Comfortable walking shoes
The tour includes uneven terrain and extended walking. - Weather-appropriate clothing
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen in summer; umbrella or rain jacket in case of rain. - Small bag or backpack only
Large bags, luggage, and bulky items are not allowed inside the Colosseum. - Water in a plastic bottle
Glass containers and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Cancellation policy
- Bookings are non-refundable. All sales are final.
Meeting/Starting Point
The Meeting/Starting Point. The meeting point is located at Via delle Terme di Tito 72, on the corner with Via Nicola Salvi, directly in front of Oppio Caffè. Your tour guide will be waiting at the spot, holding a sign with your name displayed. Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and a smooth start to your private tour.
Colosseum
Private Colosseum Tour – Discover Rome’s Greatest Monument
Step into the world of Ancient Rome with a private guided tour of the Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks of the Roman Empire. Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience through the architectural marvel that once hosted emperors, gladiators, and roaring crowds.
With skip-the-line access, avoid the long queues and dive straight into the heart of the amphitheater. Explore the first and second tiers, where spectators once gathered to witness epic battles and grand public spectacles. As you walk through this monumental arena, your guide will share fascinating stories of gladiatorial combat, Roman engineering, and imperial propaganda, painting a vivid picture of life in the 1st century AD.
This private experience is ideal for families, couples, or curious travelers who want to explore the Colosseum at their own pace, ask questions freely, and truly connect with the past, without the rush or noise of group tours.
Let history come alive as you uncover the secrets behind the Colosseum’s construction, its symbolic meaning in Roman society, and its enduring legacy as a monument of power, entertainment, and innovation.
Roman Forum/Palatine Hill
Private Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour – A Journey to the Origins of Rome
Step beyond the Colosseum and continue your exploration of Ancient Rome with a private guided visit to two of its most powerful historic landmarks: the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.
Accompanied by your personal guide, you’ll stroll through the ruins of the Forum, once the bustling epicenter of Roman life. Here, politics, religion, and public life collided—where emperors paraded, senators debated, and citizens lived the stories we now call history. Your guide will bring this once-glorious center back to life through vivid storytelling and archaeological insight.
Next, rise above the chaos of the ancient city to the Palatine Hill, where legend claims Romulus founded Rome. As you explore the remnants of imperial palaces and sacred temples, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the mythology, ambition, and power that shaped the world’s first great empire. From its panoramic viewpoints, gaze out across the Roman Forum and Colosseum—Rome’s timeless skyline beneath your feet.
This private experience is perfect for those who want to walk in the footsteps of emperors, uncover the roots of Western civilization, and explore the Eternal City in an intimate and meaningful way.
Let history surround you—not as a spectator, but as a privileged guest.Walk through Palatine Hill, explore the site of an older settlement from the 9th century BC. Admire the first settlements of the city of Rome and the Hippodrome, an elliptical sunken garden from the Palace of Domitian. Here, enjoy an impressive view of the Circus Maximus and the valley of the Roman Forum. Learn about the legend of Romulus and Remus, the abandoned brothers raised by a wolf who fought each other for power and control.
You can start this experience at the following places.
Via delle Terme di Tito, 72
72 Via delle Terme di Tito, 00184 RM Roma, IT
Adding item to wishlist requires an account
Don't have an account? Create one.
-
Book Direct: Best prices always guaranteed. -
Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help. -
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.
You Might Also Like...
Rome Kids friendly Guided Tour upon the Walls and Undergrounds
Underground Rome for Kids: Fun Private Tour of Wal...
-
Rome Tours
3 hours
Underground Rome Private Tour: San Clemente, St. Peter in Chains & Ludus Magnus
In 2.5 to 3 hours, this immersive tour traces the ...
-
Rome Underground Tours2–3 hours
Rome Papal Audience Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel Group Tour
Experience the spiritual power of the Papal Audien...
-
Rome Tours5–6 hours
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
Newsletter
Receive the latest news updates directly in your inbox.
Keep up with our latest news,investor updates, and media releases.
