Rome is one of the most extraordinary cities in the world. Exploring it on your own only scratches the surface. By joining a guided tour, you’ll uncover the rich stories and stunning beauty of the Eternal City with expert insight. Plus, many tours offer skip-the-line access to major attractions, saving you valuable time.

Yet, with so many options available, choosing the right tour can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve carefully researched and compiled a list of the best tours in Rome. Whether you prefer private tours or group experiences, you’ll find what suits you best. You can choose large or small group experiences. There’s a perfect option tailored to your budget and preferences.

OUR TOP 5 TOURS IN ROME

1. 1 Colosseum Tour

   Visit the magnificent arena and step inside one of the world’s greatest monuments. Some tours include Arena Floor, Gladiator Gate or Domus Aurea

2. 2 Vatican Museums

   Walks of Italy early morning tour avoids the crowds so you can admire the Sistine Chapel in relative solitude.

3. 3 10 Tastes of Rome

   Food tour by Withlocals — taste classic Roman dishes with an expert local guide sharing the city’s best foodie secrets.

4. 4 Rome in a Day

   Short on time? This LivTours option visits the Colosseum, Vatican, Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona

5. 5 Day Trip: Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast

   Long day but perfect if you want to see Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast — a great sneak peek into one of Italy’s best-loved regions.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Best tours of Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Certainly, you can purchase tickets to explore the Colosseum independently, but nothing compares to the experience of a guided tour. A knowledgeable guide brings this iconic monument to life, sharing captivating stories of gladiators, emperors, epic battles, and ancient looting. It’s far more engaging than simply wandering among the ruins alone. In fact, without a guide, we might have missed the tomb of Julius Caesar entirely! Your Colosseum ticket also grants you access to the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

This vast area is rich with history and home to the iconic sites of Ancient Rome. A knowledgeable tour guide will help you explore this remarkable place. They will reveal how much we owe to a civilization that fell over 2,000 years ago. The Colosseum is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It extends until 7:15 PM from April through September. However, it is closed on December 25th and January 1st. Plan to dedicate 2 to 3 hours, or half a day, to fully experience the area. Most tours last at least 2 hours.

Basic skip-the-line Colosseum tours

The most basic Colosseum experience is a skip-the-line tour with an audio guide. This self-paced option lets you enjoy one hour of narrated commentary through a handheld device. It is ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Please remember to return the audio guide by the designated time.

Where to buy tour tickets

• Colosseum site – can be difficult to use, sometimes does not accept international credit cards >> Click here to view options
• Colosseum audio tour on Tiquets – authorized ticket partner with easy-to-use English language interface and app for storing ticket info >> Click here for tickets

Large group tour of the Colosseum and ancient Roman sites

Explore the iconic Ancient Roman landmarks, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, on this engaging 3-hour skip-the-line tour. This tour is designed for larger groups of up to 30 participants. It is a highly rated experience that offers excellent value. Travelers can gain an in-depth understanding of Rome’s rich history without breaking the bank. Each guest will receive a headset to ensure you hear the guide clearly throughout the tour. >> Click here for more details.

Recommended small group Colosseum tours

Visiting the Colosseum has always been a dream for many. If you want to savor every moment, you should join a small group tour. Experience VIP access to one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Be guided by an expert who is passionate about sharing the stories of gladiators. Learn about the crowds who once filled the arena over 2,000 years ago.

The top recommended tour is LivTour’s Colosseum Tour, which includes the Underground, Arena, Gladiator Gate, and Roman Forum.

For true history enthusiasts, exclusive tour options are available to explore additional areas of the arena. These spots have very limited availability, so be sure to book early.

Colosseum at Night

An official Colosseum at Night tour resumed in 2025 after a brief pause. Experiencing the monument bathed in moonlight is truly magical. Tickets include a 60-minute guided tour covering the first tier, arena floor, and underground levels. Tours are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. >> Click here for tour details.

Colosseum Virtual Reality Tour

As passionate tech enthusiasts, this virtual reality tour of the Colosseum tops our list for the next visit. Using cutting-edge technology, the Colosseum is brought back to life in all its original splendor. You truly feel immersed in the arena, witnessing gladiators battling lions. The contrast between the ancient ruins and the recreated arena offers a uniquely memorable experience. Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the preparations beneath the main arena. Expert guides reveal the fascinating history of one of the world’s greatest wonders. >> Click for more info and tickets.

DISCOVER: Explore visit and tour options in our comprehensive guide How to buy tickets for the Colosseum.

Best tours of the Vatican Museums and St Peters

The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica are likely at the top of your Rome bucket list—and for good reason. Witness the breathtaking masterpieces by Michelangelo. You can also admire works by other legendary artists. Explore one of the largest and most magnificent churches in the world. Many tour companies offer combined visits to both sites, but you can also explore each one independently.

If you are traveling with small children, we recommend visiting St. Peter’s Basilica only and saving the museums for another trip. The museums are vast, requiring extensive walking and quiet time, which can be challenging for little ones.

Be aware, these are among the busiest tourist attractions in the world. Lines for the Vatican sites are notoriously long. Opting for a skip-the-line Vatican Museums and/or Basilica tour is a smart choice. That is, unless you enjoy waiting in queues all day. We certainly don’t!

TIP: For our top picks of the best value combined Vatican group tours >> Click here.

Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums house one of the world’s largest collections of art and antiquities. They feature 54 galleries showcasing over 20,000 masterpieces. Among the most renowned are Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, illustrating scenes from the Book of Genesis.

The Vatican Museums are open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with last entry at 6:00 PM. They also open on the last Sunday of each month (except when it coincides with Easter Sunday, June 29th—Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, December 25th—Christmas, and December 26th—Feast of St. Stephen) from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with final entry at 12:30 PM.

To avoid the busiest times, consider visiting in the afternoon or during Friday late openings in the summer. Art enthusiasts may also benefit from special early access tours available throughout the year.

NOTE: Appropriate dress is mandatory at the Vatican. Both men and women must cover their knees and shoulders; shorts and sleeveless tops are not permitted.

St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is a must-visit destination, offering much more than its stunning interior. You can explore the Dome (or Cupola) for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. See above for details. You can also visit the Treasury Museums and the Grottoes. The Basilica is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM between April and September. It is open from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM between October and March. Note that on Wednesdays and Sundays, many tours are restricted due to Papal Audiences. Plan to spend at least three hours visiting the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Vatican Gardens

Some tours also include a stroll through the Vatican Gardens. These beautifully landscaped gardens feature grottoes, statues, and meticulously maintained lawns. Since most visitors never venture into this part of the Vatican, it remains a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

Basic skip-the-line Vatican Museum tours

The most basic Vatican tour is a skip-the-line experience with an audio guide. This self-paced tour lets you listen to narrated commentary on a handheld device. It is an excellent choice for budget travelers.

Where to buy tour tickets

• Vatican Museums official website – can be challenging to navigate and may not accept some international credit cards >> Click here to explore options
• Vatican Museums audioguide tour – offered by tour partners with user-friendly English interfaces and apps to store your ticket information >> Click here to purchase tickets

Basic skip-the-line St Peter’s Basilica tours

Entry to St Peter’s is free. You can pay a small fee to skip the line. You can also enjoy a tour with an audioguide.

• St Peter’s site – information and contact number
• St Peter’s skip-the-line with audioguide on GetYourGuide
• St Peter’s skip-the-line with tour guide on GetYourGuide

Full Day Rome Tour

If you have just one day to explore Rome, you should book a full-day guided tour. It will help you navigate the city efficiently. When selecting a ‘Rome in a Day’ tour, make sure it includes all the iconic landmarks. These landmarks are the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain. With expert planning and skip-the-line access available exclusively through LivTours, you can make the most of your visit. >> Click here for tour details

Best Rome walking tours

For first-time visitors, we highly recommend a highlights walking tour of Rome, especially through its historic center. This allows you to experience the city’s rich ancient history and its development over the centuries. Many “free” walking tours are available in Rome. They often involve large groups and cater to a broad audience.

Keep in mind that these tours are only free if you don’t leave a tip at the end. Since guides depend on tips for their income, it’s courteous to tip around €10 per person. We suggest joining a small group walking tour to explore key sights like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona. This way, you can ask plenty of questions and fully engage with the guide’s insights.

Rome walking tour suggestions

• Best of Rome Walking Tour – Experience the highlights of Rome on this top-rated 2.5-hour tour, featuring the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Navona. >> Click for additional information to learn more about the tour.
• Rome Twilight Stroll – Enjoy an enchanting walk through Rome’s romantic piazzas and fountains at dusk. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain! Take a look at the tour details by clicking here for tour info.
• Ancient Monuments of Rome – Explore the city’s historic sites on this 3-hour tour, where history awaits around every corner. >> Click here for more information.

Consider a private tour guide for a personalized experience. They can tailor the itinerary to your interests.
We recommend Withlocals tours, which offer customizable itineraries at prices comparable to small group tours.

TIP: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water to stay refreshed during your walking tour.

Rome sightseeing tours

Bus sightseeing tours of Rome

Hop-on, hop-off tours are ideal for families with young children and those with mobility challenges.

Explore the city’s top attractions by bus while listening to an informative recorded guide. You can hop off at any stop to explore and then rejoin the tour at your convenience.

Our favorite Rome bus tour includes complimentary walking tours at the Vatican, Roman Forum, and Spanish Steps. Tickets are available for 24 or 48 hours, starting from the time you board your first bus. >> Click here for tour times and prices. Please note, this bus tour does not include entry tickets to attractions.

PRO TIP: On your first day, take a full loop of the bus route in the late afternoon. This will help you get familiar with the city layout.

Golf cart tour of Rome

If walking long distances isn’t an option, consider a golf cart tour of Rome. These private tours offer a comfortable and efficient way to explore the city’s highlights. You can customize golf cart tours to match your interests. They can take you to the top of some of Rome’s iconic seven hills. This provides breathtaking views you wouldn’t experience on foot. >> Click here for more information.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, try a Vespa sidecar tour of Rome. It offers a thrilling and unique way to see the city.

Segway tours of Rome

Experience the latest in exciting tour options with a Segway tour—a fantastic way to explore Rome. Glide effortlessly through narrow streets and hidden laneways, far from the busy traffic. Most tours last between 2 to 3 hours, offering fascinating insights into Rome’s rich history and ancient heritage. Plus, it’s almost like riding a Roman chariot! Perfect for the young at heart or families with teenagers. >> Click here for ticket details and prices.

Bike tours of Rome

Navigating Rome by bike can be challenging due to heavy traffic, crowds, and uneven cobblestone streets. It requires a confident rider to manage these conditions safely. If you’re determined to explore Rome by bike, consider an electric bike tour. We highly recommend taking a tour along the Via Appia (Appian Way). This scenic route just outside the city features ancient ruins, catacombs, and a beautiful national park. >> Click here for tour details and pricing.

TIP: For a smooth booking experience, consider using the Get Your Guide online platform. >> Click here for a comprehensive review of GetYourGuide and tips on finding the best tours in Rome.

Rome Food Tours

Food tours and cooking classes are our favorite ways to truly experience a city. After all the culture and sightseeing, you’re sure to work up an appetite! In Rome, we’ve loved exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Trastevere. The bustling Campo de’ Fiori market is another favorite. We also enjoyed Testaccio on fantastic food tours led by Withlocals and Eating Europe.

We even brought our kids once, and it turned out to be a fun family adventure. Click here to discover more about our foodie experiences in Rome. Skip the tourist traps and dive into the city’s rich food culture with these mouthwatering tours and experiences. Just be sure to wear your stretchiest pants!

• 10 Tastes Rome Food and Wine Tour. Savor the flavors of the Eternal City. This is a must-do 3-hour tasting tour. Sample iconic Roman dishes and exquisite local wines.
• Rome Street Food Tour – Spend three hours tasting and sipping your way through the city’s best bites. Learn to distinguish your Suppli from truffle tartine while stopping at five authentic eateries.
• Rome Pasta Making Course – Master the art of pasta making. It’s one of the best souvenirs you can bring home from Rome. Enjoy a glass of prosecco and snacks as you learn, then savor your delicious creation.

READ: Our roundup of the Best Food Tours in Rome.

Best Tours in Rome for Families

On our last trip to Rome, we took the kids along and had an amazing time. Much of the fun came from the fantastic family tours we enjoyed at the Colosseum. We also had fun exploring hidden parts of Rome. If you haven’t considered taking your children on a tour during vacation, I highly recommend it. The kids had a blast, and we all learned so much. Bonus: family tour guides often know the best spots for gelato! While some of the tours we experienced are no longer offered, here are some great alternatives to consider.

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Rome Family Tours

• Withlocals family tours in Rome – Kids go free on Withlocals family tours. What’s even better is that they are specifically designed for kids. The tours include stops for gelato and running around. Whether your children are inspired by gladiators or pizza, you’ll find an activity you can all enjoy.
• Colosseum family tour for kids. The Colosseum is one place in Rome that can capture the imagination of the youngest visitors. This tour includes treasure hunts and other interactive activities. It also offers 3D reconstructions of the buildings to bring them back to life.
• Vatican for kids – We would never attempt the Vatican Museums with kids without a guide. This highly-rated family tour of the Vatican will take your tribe through the galleries with ease. The guides are experienced in working with children of all ages. They keep them entertained so you can relax and enjoy the experience too!.
• Family sunset tour – learn about the history of Rome with a side of pizza and gelato! I can’t think of a better way to capture your children’s imaginations, can you? You will see the major sights of Rome’s historic center and have lots of fun along the way.
• Gladiator school! – get dressed up and learn the skills of a gladiator in ancient Rome. This 2-hour lesson combines history, sports and lots of fun. It is suitable for kids aged 6 and over.

OUR TOP 5 TOURS IN ROME

1. 1 Colosseum Tour

   Visit the magnificent arena and step inside one of the world’s greatest monuments. Some tours include Arena Floor, Gladiator Gate or Domus Aurea

2. 2 Vatican Museums

   Walks of Italy early morning tour avoids the crowds so you can admire the Sistine Chapel in relative solitude.

3. 3 10 Tastes of Rome

   Food tour by Withlocals — taste classic Roman dishes with an expert local guide sharing the city’s best foodie secrets.

4. 4 Rome in a Day

   Short on time? This LivTours option visits the Colosseum, Vatican, Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona

5. 5 Day Trip: Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast

   Long day but perfect if you want to see Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast — a great sneak peek into one of Italy’s best-loved regions.