easy
2–3 hours
Participants should be able to walk unassisted for extended periods over uneven surfaces.
Step onto the arena floor of Rome’s historic Colosseum for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience. With expert guides and private access, walk through the ancient gladiator arenas and uncover the city’s legendary history in a personalized setting.
VIP Straight to the Colosseum in the afternoon
Experience the Colosseum like never before on this exclusive VIP tour, designed for small groups. Escape the heat as you explore ancient gladiator arenas, the majestic Roman Forum, and luxurious Palatine Hill. With expert guides, uncover the rich history and stunning architecture of Rome's iconic landmarks in a personalized setting.
3 hours
When you have a tight schedule, sometimes you can only fit in sites in the afternoon, which happens to be the hottest part of the day in Rome. This VIP very small group tour will go directly to the Colosseum to enjoy the shade and breezy passageways in the heat of the day. We will then give you an introduction into one of the greatest and most iconic buildings in the world, the Colosseum. The amphitheatre, which was built by emperor Vespasian and completed by his son Titus, is one of the seven wonders of the world, and we want to give you a complete understanding of its history as well as the best group tour experience possible. You will enter with your group to see where gladiators fought and died centuries ago. There you will learn all about the amazing lives of the gladiators and the many different (and deadly) weapons they used, all while soaking in the incredible architecture from the best viewpoint in the arena. We will then walk around the colossal structure where ancient Romans used to cheer on their heroes, gamble and marvel at the exotic animals from all parts of the enormous Roman Empire. After walking around inside the building, seeing it from its many different and beautiful angles, the tour will begin a short walk toward the Roman Forum. The forum was the heart and soul of the ancient city with many of its most important temples and political buildings, and though most are in ruins it is still one of the most visually impressive archaeological parks in the world. In this incredible walk through history the tour will fully explore the most important and spectacular sites. Entering near the Senate House the group continues past the law courts, triumphal arches and beautiful Temples, including the famed temple of Julius Caesar where his ashes were laid to rest. We will continue the tour by climbing up the gentle slopes of the Palatine Hill where rich Romans lived in their luxury villas, while being waited on hand and foot. Under the umbrella pines, which scatter the landscape, we will explore the palace of the emperors, home of the most powerful people in the ancient world. You will learn more about the lives of these great (and occasionally quite mad) men, visiting the stately dining rooms and serene gardens, getting an idea of the unbelievable luxury that they would have lived in. The last stop on our tour is Domitian’s hippodrome, attached to the imperial palace, where the group can bask in the surrounding view and feel the thousands of years of history and change that this unique city has gone through. At the end of the tour, our guides will always be more than willing to answer any further questions you might have,as well as offer advice on how best to see the city with many helpful tips (even if it’s just where to find the best plate of pasta).
Please check-in at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Tours will depart promptly at the scheduled time, and no refunds will be given for late arrivals or missed tours.
Proof of identification may be required, so please bring a valid form of photo ID for each guest.
Tours will proceed in all weather conditions, unless the site is closed by authorities for safety reasons. It is highly recommended to bring bottled water, sunscreen, hat, and umbrella.
There will be a security check upon entering the Colosseum. Any weapons, sharp objects, glass or aerosol containers will be confiscated, so please do not bring these items to the tour.
All tours operate within the current COVID-19 regulations set by the Italian Government.
Walking on ancient stones and uneven surfaces requires sturdy, comfortable footwear.
VIP access is popular, so securing your spot ahead of time ensures availability.
Avoid the heat and crowds by choosing early morning or late afternoon tours.
Roman afternoons can get quite hot; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
The Colosseum was completed in AD 80 and hosted over 50,000 spectators for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.
Roman Vacations supports sustainable tourism by emphasizing preservation and respectful visitation of historic sites.
Sturdy shoes are vital for uneven ground and extended walking.
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen help shield you from the sun during exposure.
summer specific
A compact layer can come in handy during unexpected showers.
spring specific
Stay hydrated during your walking tour, especially in warmer months.