About this experience
Step back into Ancient Rome on a small-group tour led by a licensed expert, exploring the Colosseum and Arena, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. With fast-track entry and just three immersive hours, you’ll experience the Eternal City’s most iconic sites in depth, without the crowds or the wait.
Begin inside the Colosseum, where stories of gladiators, emperors, and ingenious Roman engineering come to life as you take in panoramic views from above the arena floor. You'll also get the chance to stand on the arena floor where victorious battles were once fought. Continue to Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome and former home of its emperors, before descending into the Roman Forum, the political, social, and ceremonial heart of the ancient world.
Designed for comfort and insight, this thoughtfully paced tour combines expert storytelling, a smart route, and a small group size for a richer experience. Spaces are limited so book now to discover Ancient Rome at an exceptional value.
At a glance
- Duration: 1 hr–3 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 1 hr–3 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Each traveller must present a valid passport or ID matching the name provided at booking for entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
What is included
- Headphones so you don't miss a word
- Arena Floor access available for selected options
- Colosseum entry ticket and reservation fee (€20 value)
- Marvel at the Colosseum from a unique vantage point
- Guided group tour led by a licensed local expert
- Priority access to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum (if option selected)
Not included
- Food and Drink
- Transportation
Itinerary and highlights
Enter the Colosseum through the historic Porta Libitinaria, known as the Gate of Death. From here, you’ll step onto the Arena floor in the centre of the amphitheatre. Walk in the paths once taken by Roman gladiators as your expert guide shares their stories and explains the events that took place within the Colosseum’s walls.
Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s seven historic hills, is an important archaeological site. Explore the area traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Rome and the ruins of the Imperial Palace. Your guide will provide context as you see the remains, the surrounding pine trees, and views over the Circus Maximus and the Roman Forum.
The political, social, and commercial heart of ancient Rome is the Forum. Walk the historic Roman roads, the Via Sacra and Via Nova, and pass between arches, temples, and other remains. Although only part of the Forum survives today, your guide will provide context and historical insight to help you understand how the space once functioned.
Meeting and pickup information
- Photoshoot Option Only: Meet your guide at Largo Gaetana Agnesi, above the Colosseo Metro station. Use Google Maps to find the meeting point and look for a yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag or sign. If near the Colosseum, enter the metro station and take the stairs up.
- You will find us at the Arch of Constantine. Please use Google Maps to find the meeting point. Your guide will be holding a yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag or sign. Arrive 10 minutes early. Late arrivals are not eligible for refunds.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Carpe Diem Tours
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please provide the full names of all travellers when booking. Failure to present a voucher with matching names at the ticket office may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
- Each traveller must present a valid passport or ID matching the name provided at booking for entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
- Want an upgrade? Check out these other options: Colosseum Arena Group Tour (24pax), Colosseum Arena Small-Group Tour (24pax)
Cancellation policy
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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