Rome Private Tour: Colosseum, Circus Maximus & Baths of Caracalla
Skip-the-Line Tickets Included | Customizable Experience | 3 to 4 Hours
Embark on a captivating journey through ancient Rome with this exclusive private guided tour, offering priority access and expert insights into three of the Eternal City’s most iconic archaeological sites: the Colosseum, the Circus Maximus, and the Baths of Caracalla.
Your experience begins inside the mighty Colosseum, where your private guide will bring the past to life with stories of gladiators, emperors, and dramatic battles that once thrilled thousands of spectators. Explore the primary levels of the arena, admire its architecture, and gain a deeper understanding of the engineering marvels that made it possible.
From there, take a stroll to the legendary Circus Maximus, once the largest stadium in ancient Rome and home to exhilarating chariot races. While it now appears as a sprawling green valley, your guide will help you imagine its former grandeur, where over 250,000 cheering Romans once gathered.
The tour concludes at the magnificent Baths of Caracalla, a vast and remarkably preserved complex that served not only as a bathing center but also as a place for relaxation, learning, and socializing. Wander through its towering ruins, marvel at the mosaic floors, and uncover the sophisticated technology that once powered its hot and cold pools.
This private tour is ideal for families, couples, and groups—large or small—and can be tailored to your pace and interests. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, this immersive experience provides a vivid portrait of daily life in Imperial Rome, allowing you to explore the city’s past with comfort and depth.
What’s included?
- Private licensed guidefor the entire duration (3–4 hours)
- Skip-the-line admission tickets to: The Colosseum The Baths of Caracalla
- Guided visit to Circus Maximus (outdoor archaeological site)
- Customizable itinerary based on your interests and pace
- Headsets for groups of 6 or more
- Personalized attention for individuals, families, or private groups
Exclusions
- Tip or gratuity
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Food and beverages
- Gratuities (optional)
- Transportation between the sites (the tour is entirely on foot)
- Access to restricted areas of the Colosseum such as the underground or arena floor, unless specifically arranged
Please Note
- Public transportation nearby
Accessibility and Suitability
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible
- Pets are not permitted
- Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues
- Comfortable walking shoes and a bright casual dress are strongly recommended
Identification and Security
- A valid photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s license) is required for each traveler and must match the name provided at the time of booking.
- Failure to present a valid ID or mismatched booking details will result in denied entry to the Colosseum and no refund will be issued.
- All visitors must pass through a security screening with metal detectors; waiting time may be 20–30 minutes.
- Large bags, backpacks, or suitcases are not permitted at the Colosseum or Baths of Caracalla. Small bags are allowed, but there is no cloakroom for larger items.
- Prohibited items include: perfumes, spray/aerosol cans, weapons, glass, alcohol, and selfie sticks (inside the Colosseum).
Tour Conditions and Refund Policy
- The order of site visits may vary depending on operational reasons or extraordinary events.
- The standard program is subject to change based on availability or site management decisions.
- The Ministry of Culture or site managers may partially or fully close sites at any time. No refunds are possible in such cases.
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Late arrivals may result in missed entry without refund.
What do I need to bring?
- Valid photo ID or passport (required for Colosseum entry)
- Comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain
- Weather-appropriate clothing (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, or rain gear)
- A small bag or backpack (large bags are not allowed)
- Reusable water bottle (optional, but recommended)
- Booking confirmation (digital or printed)
- Personal medication, if needed
Cancellation policy
- Bookings are non-refundable. All sales are final.
Starting/Meeting 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
The tour begins at the iconic Colosseum, offering a private experience inside one of the most renowned and impressive structures of the ancient world. As you step inside, you’ll be immersed in the atmosphere of ancient Rome’s grandeur and intrigue. Learn about the thrilling spectacles once held here — from the legendary gladiator battles to fierce encounters with exotic beasts. Uncover the ingenious construction methods developed by Roman architects and the advanced engineering behind this monumental arena. During the visit, you’ll explore the two main tiers, offering remarkable views both within the amphitheater and outward toward the Arch of Constantine.
Arch of Costantine
The Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino) stands as one of Rome’s most iconic triumphal monuments, honoring Emperor Constantine the Great. Erected by order of the Roman Senate, the arch commemorates Constantine’s decisive victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 AD. Strategically positioned between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill, it straddles the ancient Via Triumphalis—the ceremonial route once taken by victorious generals entering Rome in grand procession.
Completed in 315 AD, it is the largest surviving triumphal arch from ancient Rome, measuring 21 meters in height, nearly 26 meters in width, and 7.4 meters in depth. Its structure features three passageways: a monumental central arch flanked by two smaller ones, all framed by decorative columns. Built from brick-faced concrete and clad in marble, the design reflects earlier models, notably the Arch of Septimius Severus in the Roman Forum. Though some details were borrowed from earlier monuments, the Arch of Constantine remains a powerful symbol of imperial Rome and its enduring architectural legacy.
Circus Maximus
A short and pleasant walk from the Colosseum brings you to the historic site of the Circus Maximus. Once the grand arena for Roman chariot races—famously depicted in the film Ben Hur—today it appears as a vast green space. Yet, in ancient times, it was the largest stadium in Rome, capable of holding over 250,000 spectators seated along its sweeping tiers. While much of the original structure is gone, you can still spot remnants, particularly at the curved eastern end, hinting at its immense scale and significance.
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
Following your visit to the Circus Maximus, the next stop is the impressive Baths of Caracalla — once the second largest public bathing complex in ancient Rome. Constructed between 212 and 217 AD under the emperors Septimius Severus and his son Caracalla, the site could accommodate over 1,500 bathers at a time. Far more than just a place to bathe, the baths functioned as an authentic leisure and cultural center, complete with libraries, gymnasiums, and landscaped gardens. Today, they remain one of the best-preserved examples of Roman bath architecture. Visitors can admire towering vaulted chambers, domed halls, elegant porticoes, and sections of the original heating system, as well as stunning remnants of intricate, multicolored mosaic floors that echo the luxury of the Imperial age.
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
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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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Pantheon
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Roman Forum
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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
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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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