Small Group · Rome
Essential Colosseum & Ancient Rome
Overview
Step into the heart of Ancient Rome on this essential 3.5-hour small-group experience, exploring three of the city's most important archaeological landmarks: the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. With skip-the-line entrance tickets and an expert English-speaking guide, the tour offers an engaging introduction to the people, monuments and stories that shaped the Roman Empire.
Begin at the Colosseum, one of the world's most recognizable ancient monuments. Venture inside the amphitheatre as your guide explains why it was built, how it became such an important part of Roman public life, and the extraordinary spectacles that once took place within its walls. Discover the world of the gladiators, the different forms of combat staged here and the reality behind some of the legends associated with ancient Rome.
Continue past the Arch of Constantine and into the Roman Forum, once the political, commercial and religious centre of the ancient city. Walk among temples, public buildings and historic ruins while learning how Romans gathered here to vote, trade, attend trials, listen to speeches, celebrate military victories and worship their gods.
Your journey concludes on the Palatine Hill, traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Rome and later chosen by emperors as the setting for their magnificent residences. Explore the remains of imperial palaces while hearing the legends of Romulus and Remus and discovering how Rome's most powerful rulers lived above the Forum and the Circus Maximus.
Designed for travelers who want to experience the essential highlights of Ancient Rome without committing to a half-day or full-day itinerary, this small-group tour brings the Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill together in one focused and memorable introduction to Rome's ancient past.
Duration
3 hours
30 minutes
Pricing
On request
Tailored to your dates and group.
Discover the essential sights of Ancient Rome on a 3.5-hour small-group tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, with skip-the-line admission and an expert English-speaking guide.
- Tour Style
- Small Group
- Departs From
- Rome
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Skip the line Entrance tickets included
- English-speaking tour guide
- Optional pick-up
What's Not Included
- Food and beverages not mentioned in the program
- Gratuities of any type
Traveler Reviews
Emily and David DavisonMy husband and I just took a two week trip to Italy that was planned for us by Eleanor Kinchin-Smith. It was a fantastic trip and we could not have been more thrilled. We worked together with Ele to let her know about our interests and our style of travel. She planned the perfect trip with excellent private guides at all of our sites, professional drivers and lovely hotels. We arrived in Italy with all of our train and ferry reservations made by Ele, with tickets in hand. She was in touch with us daily throughout our trip to make sure that things were going smoothly. She was able to make a few changes to our itinerary as needed. We look forward to working with Ele again on our next trip and have put her in touch with another family member to help plan their trip as well.
Ron and Deb CrosbyDear Guiseppe and Jesse,
We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future.
Hotels
1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of our journey very stress free. They made us feel like we were part of their family. I would recommend it to anyone and would specifically ask for it if we were to make a return visit.
2. Hotel La Baia in Monterosso was nice and it's location was very good especially for us older folks humping luggage from/to the train station.
3. Hotel Lucchesi in Florence- what can I say expect FANTASTIC. The rooftop view at sunset is well worth it. Again very friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend it to everyone.
Wine Tour
Money well spent. We had a great time overall. The driver Mario was OUTSTANDING. He had lots of local knowledge as well as about winemaking. USE HIM AGAIN!!!
The various wineries we visited on tour:
Altesino- fantastic and they were not cheap on their pouring. Great experience.
Azienda Agricola Patrizia Cencion Sloaria- Again a great tour by one of the owner's daughters. We felt like we were the only thing on their mind although there were other customers there. A great way to complete the day.
Again we had a fantastic time and are very appreciative of everything you booked for us. We wish you continued success and if our travels should bring us back to Italy, we know who to call.
Leon and MicheleThe trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country.
Bob & SandyJesse & Giuseppe,
Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private tour, or will we join a group?
Private. You travel with your own guide and driver, and the only people on the itinerary are the ones you bring with you. Nothing is shared with strangers, and the pace of each day is yours to set.
Can the itinerary be changed to suit us?
Yes. What you see here is a starting point, not a fixed departure. Tell us how long you have, what you love and what you would rather skip, and we will reshape it around you. A slower morning, an extra night somewhere you fell for, a different region entirely.
How do we start planning?
Send us a note using the form on this page, or call us on 1-866-779-2565. A travel specialist replies within one business day, usually with a few questions of their own. There is no cost and no obligation in asking.
When should we book?
The earlier the better, particularly for travel between May and September, when the guides worth having are taken first. That said, we have put together beautiful trips at short notice, so ask and we will tell you honestly what is still possible for your dates.
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