Adventure Collective
Roma History Tour: Entire Vatican & Colosseum with ItaliaTours - Rome

Roma History Tour: Entire Vatican & Colosseum with ItaliaTours

Romamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

7 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for visitors comfortable with several hours of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs.

Overview

Spend 7 hours uncovering iconic Rome with ItaliaTours: from the Vatican’s artistic treasures to guaranteed entry at the Colosseum. This all-in-one experience pairs expert guidance with flexible, independent exploration.

Roma, Lazio

Entire Vatican Tour with Colosseum Access

7 hours • All ages!

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About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 7-hour journey through Rome's iconic sites, guided by an expert. Explore the Vatican Museums, marvel at the Sistine Chapel, and visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Enjoy guaranteed entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, allowing you to delve into ancient history at your own pace.

Duration

7 Hrs including break

About

Discover the marvels of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica with a knowledgeable local guide. Then enjoy guaranteed time entry at the Colosseum for your independent visit. Experience the wonders of ancient Rome at your own pace, and continue your journey through history with access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill - all included!

Highlights

  • Tour four Rome venues by booking this tour and ticket combo!
  • Get up close and personal with the likes of Michelangelo and Raphael while touring the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
  • Visit the “Vatacombs,” the eerie resting place of former popes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica
  • Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill at your own pace with guaranteed entry time

Itinerary

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Vatican Museums with an expert English speaking guide. Skip the lines and dive straight into one of the world’s most important art collections and experience history and art at the very highest level. Your guide will lead you through the highlights, including the Rooms of Raphael, the ancient treasures in the Belvedere Courtyard, and the mesmerizing Gallery of Maps while setting the stage for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the ultimate masterpiece: the Sistine Chapel. Our tour handpicks the crème de la crème of this vast collection, from ancient Greek and Roman marvels to the pinnacle of the High Renaissance. You’ll spend considerable time in the Rooms of Raphael and the magnificent Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s genius comes to life. Your guide will unravel the myths, facts, and Hollywood interpretations of these iconic works. Enjoy fast-track access to St. Peter’s Basilica, home to the unparalleled creations of Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini. Descend to the sacred papal crypts before concluding your Vatican adventure with a stroll through Bernini’s grandiose St. Peter’s Square, under the watchful eye of the Swiss Guard.

After a well-deserved break and a quick snack, it’s time to travel back in time to ancient Rome. Make your way independently to the Colosseum. Here you'll have the opportunity to visit the whole archeological park by yourself. Take your time, explore and snap all the pictures you want! Continue on the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Wander through the ruins of what was once the bustling center of ancient Rome, and ascend to Palatine Hill, where Rome's legendary founding twins, Romulus and Remus, were said to be nurtured by a she-wolf. Immerse yourself in the rich history of emperors, gods, and the rise and fall of one of history's greatest empires. Capture every moment of this epic day in Rome with plenty of photos, this experience is sure to provide memories that will last a lifetime.

Includes

  • Skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
  • Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
  • Expert English-speaking tour guide
  • Guaranteed Entry Time at the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (€18)

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transport between the Vatican and the Colosseum
  • Gratuities

Know before you book

*Max group size: 20

  • Due to the route covered and/or transportation used, it is not possible to participate in this tour using a wheelchair, scooter, or other aid. Please contact us to inquire about customized tour options for guests with mobility challenges.
  • Prefer to book a private tour instead? Contact us for details.

Know before you go

  • Vatican dress code requires that knees and shoulders must be covered.
  • Due to events and ceremonies associated with the 2025 Jubilee, access to St. Peter's Basilica might be restricted. Such closures are beyond our control.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes

Expect several hours on your feet navigating large museum spaces and uneven ruins.

Dress modestly for the Vatican

Ensure shoulders and knees are covered to meet Vatican dress code requirements.

Bring a refillable water bottle

Hydrate regularly, especially during warmer months when exploring outdoor ruins.

Arrive early to the meeting point

Being punctual ensures you maximize time in each iconic site with your group.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Urban pigeons frequenting St. Peter’s Square
  • Sparrows and starlings near Colosseum gardens

History

Palatine Hill is considered the legendary birthplace of Rome, where Romulus and Remus were said to be raised by a she-wolf.

Conservation

Efforts are ongoing to preserve fragile artworks and archaeological sites amid millions of annual visitors, balancing access with protection.

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Adventure Hotspots in Rome

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Supportive footwear is crucial for lengthy museum tours and navigating ancient ruins.

Light backpack

Essential

Carrying essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection keeps you prepared throughout the day.

Layered clothing

Essential

Weather can shift indoors and outdoors—layers allow you to adapt comfortably.

all specific

Sun protection

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended during summer’s direct sun exposure.

summer specific