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VIP, Small-Group Colosseum and Ancient City Tour

1,386 Reviews 4.78 out of 5 stars Based on 1,386 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 95% of reviewers | Rome, Italy

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On average, this is booked 24 (0) days in advance.

3 hours (approx.)
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Overview

Step back in time on our expertly guided tour of Ancient Rome’s most iconic sites: the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. With shorter queues, the comfort of a small group, and the insights of an expert guide, this experience offers a deep dive into the Eternal City’s fascinating past in just 3 unforgettable hours.

Your adventure begins at the Colosseum, where you'll hear stories of gladiators, emperors, and ancient engineering marvels, plus enjoy sweeping views from above the arena.

Next, head up Palatine Hill, the mythical birthplace of Rome, before strolling through the Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of politics and daily life.

Please note that the Rome Colosseum Walking Tour includes exterior viewing only and does not enter the Colosseum or Roman Forum, making it a perfect choice for an atmospheric walk through Ancient Rome’s historic heart.

Spots are limited. Book now to experience Ancient Rome like never before.

What's Included

  • Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)
  • Speedier admission to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
  • Personalised, comfortable small group experience
  • Food and Beverages
  • Access to the arena floor (unless selected, available for an additional fee)
  • Rome Colosseum Walking Tour option is exterior-viewing only; entry tickets not included.
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Meeting Location

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What To Expect

Colosseum

Retrace the steps of the Gladiators, accompanied by exciting stories told by your expert guide. Learn all about the social status of its spectators, discover the gory norms of ancient entertainment, and geek out on the cult games and gladiatorial combat that thrilled its crowds. Your guide's stories will bring the ancient monument to life.*Please note we will start with the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill, depending on the time of tickets we can purchase.*
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Palatine Hill

The Palatine Hill is the most beautiful and important of Rome’s great seven hills and is a must-see on any city tour. Here, with your guide, discover the birthplace of one of the greatest civilisations in history and explore the ancient ruins of the Imperial Palace, surrounded by towering pine trees and spectacular views of the Circus Maximus and the Roman Forum below.
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30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Foro Romano

To truly understand life in Ancient Rome, you must visit the Forum. In downtown Rome's political, social, and commercial heart, you will walk the Via Sacra and the Via Nova, weaving around ornate arches and towering temples. See the Senate House and the remains of the Rostra - where Senators made the laws and orators decreed them to the masses. Learn more about the myth-shrouded Romulus or the great Julius Caesar from your expert guide. Although less than half of the Forum is complete today, they're sure to be able to tell you everything you want to know with their extensive knowledge and passion!
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45 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please note we will either start with the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill depending on the time of tickets we can purchase
  • Colosseum admission is free on the first Sunday of the month. Tours are discounted on these days.
  • Please be aware that we offer two Arena tour packages: The VIP Colosseum - Arena Access option grants entry to the Colosseum, Arena floor, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. The Arena, Roman Forum & Palatine option provides access to the Arena floor via an exclusive entrance and continues with visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Arena, Roman Forum& Palatine option does not visit the Colosseum, it access to Arena floor only.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Q: What is the cancellation policy for the VIP, Small-Group Colosseum and Ancient City Tour?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

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Activity code: C-109384P5

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.78
1,386 reviews

Average 4.78 out of 5 stars based on 1,385 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
1,223
4 stars
86
3 stars
39
2 stars
14
1 star
23

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On average, this is booked 24 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)
  • Speedier admission to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
  • Personalised, comfortable small group experience
  • A top-rated tour at the best value price
  • Colosseum entrance ticket (valued at €18 per person, or €24 per person if arena access included)
  • Admission to the Colosseum Arena Floor (if option selected)
  • Fascinating insights from a licensed historian guide and headphones to hear them clearly
  • Food and Beverages
  • Access to the arena floor (unless selected, available for an additional fee)
  • Rome Colosseum Walking Tour option is exterior-viewing only; entry tickets not included.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Please provide the full names of all travelers when booking. Failure to present a voucher with all travelers' full names at the ticket office prior to entry may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
  • Each traveler must present a valid passport or ID document that matches the name provided at the time of booking for successful entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
  • Please note we will either start with the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill depending on the time of tickets we can purchase
  • Colosseum admission is free on the first Sunday of the month. Tours are discounted on these days.
  • Please be aware that we offer two Arena tour packages: The VIP Colosseum - Arena Access option grants entry to the Colosseum, Arena floor, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. The Arena, Roman Forum & Palatine option provides access to the Arena floor via an exclusive entrance and continues with visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Arena, Roman Forum& Palatine option does not visit the Colosseum, it access to Arena floor only.
  • Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers

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Non-refundable

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This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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