VIP, Small-Group Colosseum and Ancient City Tour

This guided tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Rome’s iconic ancient sites with a select group of fellow travelers. Led by knowledgeable historian guides, guests will explore the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, gaining unparalleled insights into the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. The tour’s intimate size ensures personalized attention, and the option to access the Colosseum’s arena floor through the Gladiators’ Gate offers a truly one-of-a-kind perspective on this legendary structure. As visitors uncover the former homes of emperors and the ruins of ancient Roman civilization, they’ll be transported back in time, captivated by the rich history and grandeur that defined the Eternal City.

Key Points

• Guided tour of Rome’s iconic ancient sites, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, led by a licensed historian.
• Option to enter the Colosseum’s arena floor through the Gladiators’ Gate for a unique perspective.
• Access to Palatine Hill and Roman Forum to discover the former homes of emperors and ancient Roman civilization.
• Convenient meeting points, headphones available upon request, and compliance with local COVID-19 regulations.
• Small-group setting for personalized attention and a relaxed pace during the exploration of the ancient sites.

Overview of the Tour

This guided tour provides visitors an in-depth exploration of Rome’s most iconic ancient sites – the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

Led by a licensed, historian guide, the tour helps guests avoid getting overwhelmed by the vastness of these remarkable ruins, offering a relaxed pace and individual attention through a small-group format.

Highlights include the option to enter the Colosseum’s arena floor through the Gladiators’ Gate, providing a unique perspective on the legendary structure.

The tour also includes admission to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, allowing guests to discover the former homes of emperors and the center of ancient Roman civilization.

With convenient meeting points and headphones available upon request, this comprehensive tour ensures an enriching experience of Rome’s legendary past.

Key Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes admission to the iconic Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum, providing visitors access to Rome’s most renowned ancient sites. Headphones are available upon request to enhance the guided experience. Plus, the tour is led by a licensed, historian guide who offers in-depth insights into the sites’ rich history.

However, the tour doesn’t cover gratuities, food, or beverages, which are excluded from the package.

The key inclusions and exclusions are:

• Included: Admission tickets, headphones, and historian guide
• Excluded: Gratuities, food, and beverages

Meeting point is at the Arch of Constantine, with a prompt arrival required to ensure a smooth start.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is at the Arch of Constantine, a prominent landmark located near the Colosseum.

Participants are advised to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to ensure a prompt and organized departure. Late arrivals may not be eligible for a refund, so punctuality is crucial for those joining the tour.

Upon arrival, guests should check the local COVID-19 regulations to ensure they comply with any current guidelines. The tour company suggests verifying this information ahead of time to avoid any unexpected issues on the day of the tour.

Participants should also bring a valid ID, as it may be required to access certain areas of the ancient sites.

Additional Tour Information

According to the information provided, participants receive confirmation of their booking at the time of purchase. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it remains stroller accessible, catering to families with young children. Plus, the ancient sites are conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers to participate.

To ensure a smooth experience, travelers must provide the full names of all individuals in their party at the time of booking, and present valid identification upon arrival.

The tour may start at either the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill, and visitors can take advantage of free admission to the Colosseum on the first Sunday of the month.

Participants can choose between two tour package options: the VIP Colosseum – Arena Access, and the Arena, Roman Forum & Palatine tour, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers per tour.

Colosseum Entrance and Access

Visitors can choose to access the iconic arena floors through the Gladiators Gate, offering a unique and immersive experience exploring this historic landmark. This exclusive access allows them to walk in the footsteps of ancient gladiators and gain a deeper appreciation for the Colosseum’s rich history.

The tour also includes admission to the main Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of Rome’s most renowned ancient sites. With the guidance of a licensed historian, guests can navigate these vast, awe-inspiring locations at a relaxed pace, delving into the captivating stories that bring the past to life.

Exploring the Roman Forum

After exploring the grandeur of the Colosseum, the tour continues its immersion into ancient Roman history by guiding visitors through the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum.

This iconic civic center, once bustling with activity, now stands as a testament to the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, its crumbling columns and decaying structures evoking a sense of awe and contemplation.

As the guide leads the group through the Forum, they’ll discover:

• The remains of temples, basilicas, and administrative buildings that once housed the heart of Roman governance and commerce
• The impressive Arch of Titus, a triumphal arch commemorating the Roman victory over the Jewish revolt
• The ancient Via Sacra, the sacred road that witnessed triumphal processions and religious ceremonies

Visiting the Palatine Hill

The Palatine Hill, one of the most historically significant sites in Rome, stands as the legendary birthplace of the Eternal City. Visitors ascend this verdant hill, where the ruins of imperial palaces, temples, and aristocratic villas offer a glimpse into the opulence and power that once defined ancient Roman society. As part of the guided tour, guests can explore the excavated remains of the Domus Flavia, the lavish palace of the Flavian emperors, and the storied Hut of Romulus, believed to be the humble abode of Rome’s mythical founder. The tranquil surroundings and breathtaking views from the Palatine Hill provide a serene contrast to the bustling activity of the Roman Forum below.

Notable Ruins	Historical Significance	Architectural Highlights
Domus Flavia	Palace of the Flavian Emperors	Lavish Imperial Residences
Hut of Romulus	Legendary Birthplace of Rome	Intricate Decorative Elements
Temple of Apollo	Cult Site for Worship of the Sun God	Impressive Scale and Grandeur
Stadium of Domitian	Venue for Gladiatorial Games and Spectacles	Innovative Engineering Feats

Tour Package Options

Visitors to the Colosseum and Ancient City Tour have two package options to choose from, each offering a unique perspective on Rome’s iconic landmarks.

The VIP Colosseum – Arena Access package allows guests to enter through the Gladiators’ Gate and explore the arena floor, providing an immersive experience of what it was like to be a gladiator.

The Arena, Roman Forum & Palatine package, on the other hand, focuses on the broader ancient sites, including the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Both tours are led by licensed, historian guides who offer in-depth commentary to enhance the experience.

Regardless of the chosen package, travelers can expect a small-group setting for a more relaxed pace and personalized attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Guide Provide Insight on Roman History and Culture?

Yes, the licensed, historian guide can provide in-depth insights into Roman history and culture during the tour. Their expertise allows them to bring the ancient sites to life and share fascinating details about the Romans’ way of life.

Is There Flexibility to Explore the Sites at Our Own Pace?

The tour provides a relaxed pace, allowing visitors to explore the sites at their own leisure. The small group size ensures individual attention from the guide, enabling a more personalized experience within the vast ancient ruins.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

Yes, the tour offers some discounts. Colosseum admission is free on the first Sunday of each month. There are also two tour package options available, including a VIP Colosseum package with access to the arena floor.

Can We Take Photographs or Videos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs and videos during the tour, though they may be restricted in certain areas for preservation reasons. It’s best to check with the guide beforehand.

What Is the Policy for Cancellations and Rescheduling?

The tour operator’s cancellation and rescheduling policy allows flexibility. Customers can cancel or reschedule their tour up to 24 hours in advance without penalty. Any cancellations within 24 hours are subject to a fee.

Recap

This VIP, small-group tour offers unparalleled access to Rome’s ancient wonders.

Guests can explore the Colosseum’s arena floor, uncover the secrets of the Roman Forum, and discover the former homes of emperors on the Palatine Hill.

Led by expert historians, the tour provides an immersive experience, shedding light on the rise and fall of the Roman Empire.

With personalized attention and exclusive access, this is a must-do experience for any visitor to the Eternal City.