Things to Do in Rome

Visit the Borghese Gallery on a private tour with an art historian guide. Your guide will tailor the visit to your interests, sharing stories of art and history. See the 17th-century villa of Cardinal Scipione Borghese and view a significant art collection at your own pace. You'll pass by Bernini’s sculptures incuding _Apollo and Daphne_, and _The Rape of Proserpina_. See Caravaggio’s works such as _David with the Head of Goliath_ and _Boy with a Basket of Fruit_. You will also see and hear about works by Raphael, Titian, and Canova.

Start with an overview of ancient Rome from terraces that highlight its political and institutional center. Then,visit the Colosseum with a guide and learn about its history. The tour also includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Explore the Forum’s historical structures and see the grand palaces on Palatine Hill where Roman emperors lived. Enjoy a guided tour of the Colosseum, covering gladiator battles and Roman architecture. Afterward, you have 24 hours to explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill on your own.

This full-day excursion begins early in Rome, where participants board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach that will transport them south toward the ancient ruins of Pompeii. After approximately two and a half hours on the road, the group arrives at the archaeological site, where an expert guide leads a detailed walkthrough of the expansive city buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Visitors walk along the preserved Roman streets, passing through homes, temples, theaters, and the forum, observing frescoes, mosaics, and artifacts that provide insight into daily life nearly two millennia ago. After the archaeological tour, the journey continues westward to the coastal town of Sorrento, perched on cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples. Here, travelers enjoy a break to stroll through lemon-scented lanes lined with artisan shops and cafes, soaking in views of the sparkling sea. The afternoon is dedicated to the Amalfi Coast, where the coach navigates narrow, winding roads along dramatic cliffs. The itinerary includes stops at key coastal towns such as Positano and Amalfi. Positano presents cascading pastel-colored houses that descend to pebble beaches, where the scent of salty sea air mingles with the fragrance of bougainvillea. In Amalfi, visitors can admire the medieval cathedral, with its Arab-Norman architecture and intricate mosaics. Throughout the route, the sea appears in varying shades of blue and green, framed by terraced vineyards and lemon groves. The tour concludes with a return trip to Rome in the evening. Groups are typically capped at around 25 participants to maintain an intimate atmosphere and allow for personalized attention from guides, who are knowledgeable historians fluent in English and Italian. The coach is modern and equipped for comfort during the several hours of travel. Guides provide commentary en route and at each stop, blending archaeological facts with anecdotes about local culture and traditions. The pacing balances walking tours with moments for rest and independent exploration during breaks. This itinerary suits travelers who appreciate history intertwined with coastal scenery and are comfortable with a full day of mixed walking and travel. It is ideal for those who wish to see multiple distinct landscapes and historical eras within a single day trip from Rome. The tour accommodates individuals with moderate fitness levels and is not recommended for those requiring extensive mobility assistance due to uneven terrain at Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast stops.

Visit the most popular attractions in Rome on a guided walking tour of Vatican City. Visit the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica with your guide, and admire the ornate interiors and the famed artworks housed here. Meet your guide close to the entrance to the Vatican Museums and follow them as you set out to explore the most interesting galleries within the museum. See the Rotunda, the Gallery of Tapestries, and the Gallery of Maps. Take in the ornate ceilings in each room and see the ancient statues, frescoes, and tapestries that adorn the walls. Follow your guide and enter the Sistine Chapel and the Saint Peter's Basilica and listen to your guide for their magnificent history.

This full-day excursion departs early from Rome, taking you south along the ancient Appian Way and the modern A1 motorway towards the historic site of Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. The day begins with a visit to Pompeii, where you spend the morning walking among the remains of a Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. After a midday pause, the journey continues toward the Amalfi Coast, culminating in an afternoon stop at Positano, a coastal village well-known for its cliffside houses and sea views. The return trip leads back to Rome in the evening, completing a loop that links archaeological heritage with Mediterranean coastal charm. Pompeii presents a vast archaeological site where visitors can see streets, villas, baths, and frescoes preserved under volcanic ash. Highlights include the Forum, the amphitheater, and the Villa of the Mysteries with its vivid frescoes. The guide, an archaeologist, provides detailed insights into daily life in Roman times and the catastrophic events of the eruption. Later, Positano provides a change of scenery with its narrow cobbled streets, small boutiques, and beachfront cafes. The air carries the scent of saltwater mixed with lemon groves that are characteristic of the region. Visitors have time to walk the promenade, enjoy local seafood dishes, or simply watch fishing boats bobbing in the harbor under the afternoon sun. The group size is typically limited to about 20 people, ensuring a more intimate enjoy with the guide, who accompanies you throughout the day. Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned coach with comfortable seating and onboard amenities. The archaeologist guide leads the walk through Pompeii, sharing archaeological context and answering questions, while a local trip leader assists during the Amalfi Coast segment. The itinerary balances structured guided visits with free time to allow independent discovery and relaxation. This tour suits travelers who have a keen interest in ancient history and archaeology, as well as those who appreciate Mediterranean coastal scenery. It requires a moderate level of physical activity, including walking on uneven terrain at Pompeii and some uphill paths in Positano. The combination of a historical site and a seaside town appeals to visitors wanting to see a contrast of Italy’s inland heritage and coastal lifestyle within a single day.

This tour grants visitors access to three of Rome's most significant archaeological sites: the Colosseum arena, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Beginning at the Colosseum, the itinerary allows guests to enter the arena floor, a restricted area not accessible with standard tickets. From there, the journey continues through the remains of the Roman Forum, the political and social heart of ancient Rome, before ascending Palatine Hill, known as the legendary birthplace of the city and home to imperial palaces. At the Colosseum, guests will stand where gladiators once fought and spectators cheered, examining the complex underground chambers and the arena’s stone walls, worn and marked by time. Moving into the Roman Forum, visitors pass through ruins of temples, basilicas, and public spaces including the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the Senate House, with columns and fragmented statues still hinting at their former grandeur. Palatine Hill provides contrasting views of the ruins below alongside lush gardens and views across the city, while the remains of Emperor Augustus’ residence provide insight into imperial life. The tour is typically conducted in small to medium groups led by an expert guide proficient in ancient Roman history and archaeology. It is a walking tour, with no transport between sites as they are within close proximity. The guide uses storytelling and detailed descriptions to bring the ruins to life. The pace is moderate, allowing time for photography and reflection. Headsets may be provided to hear the guide clearly amid crowds. This tour suits travelers with a keen interest in ancient history, archaeology, or classical architecture, particularly those who appreciate detailed narratives about Rome’s formative periods. It is also appropriate for visitors who want to avoid the crowded general admission areas by accessing the arena floor, a highlight for many. Due to walking on uneven surfaces and stairs, some physical fitness is required, and the enjoy may be less suitable for those with mobility challenges.

This guided tour begins at the Vatican Museums, where visitors enter through reserved access points minimizing wait times. The itinerary follows a carefully curated path through the vast museum complex, touching on the most significant galleries including the Gallery of Maps, which displays detailed 16th-century cartography, and the Raphael Rooms, decorated with frescoes illustrating classical themes. The route culminates in the Sistine Chapel, famed for Michelangelo’s ceiling and The Last Judgment fresco. After the chapel, the tour proceeds to St. Peter's Basilica, the epicenter of Vatican City, where guests ascend a few flights into the interior ring of Michelangelo’s dome to gain a rare vantage point over the basilica’s nave. Key stops include the Gallery of Maps, where visitors can observe intricate representations of the Italian peninsula and its regions; the Raphael Rooms, where Raphael’s masterful frescoes narrate religious and philosophical stories; the Sistine Chapel, where the guide elaborates on the symbolism and narratives embedded in the frescoes by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and others. In St. Peter’s Basilica, the tour highlights the 96-foot tall bronze baldachin designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini towering over the High Altar, as well as the papal tombs that provide insight into the lives and legacies of past popes. The tour is conducted in small groups to maintain an intimate atmosphere and allow for personalized interaction with the guide, an art historian or local expert who is knowledgeable about Vatican art and architecture. The pace is moderate, with time allocated for viewing key artworks and navigating the museum halls. The route is predominantly on foot within the Vatican complex; no transport is provided within the site. Audio headsets ensure that all participants can hear commentary clearly despite the ambient noise of fellow visitors. This tour is ideal for visitors with a keen interest in Renaissance and Baroque art, religious history, or architecture. It suits those who appreciate detailed explanations and prefer a structured itinerary that balances well-known highlights with lesser-known elements of the Vatican’s collections. Suitable for first-time visitors who want to understand the significance behind the art and the history, as well as for returning guests seeking deeper insights into Michelangelo’s dome and papal heritage.

This tour provides access to St. Peter's Basilica and the ascent of its well-known dome, accompanied by a handheld audio guide that enables a personalized and informative visit. Starting at the entrance of the basilica in Vatican City, visitors ascend 136 meters to the top of the dome, passing narrow stairways and viewing platforms. The audio guide provides detailed commentary on the architectural features, the mosaics that adorn the interior, and the panoramic views of Rome’s skyline, including St. Peter's Square and the Vatican Gardens. After descending the dome, the tour continues inside the basilica where the audio guide directs you through a series of 27 specific listening points highlighting notable artworks and religious relics. Key sites include Michelangelo's Pietà, a marble masterpiece located near the entrance, and Bernini's Baldacchino, the large bronze canopy over Saint Peter's tomb. The guide also provides historical context about the basilica's construction, its role in Catholicism, and details about the popes buried within. The tour is self-paced and designed for individual or small group visits, allowing flexibility without the constraints of a scheduled group tour. There is no physical guide present; instead, the audio guide and digital map provide clear directions and commentary. Visitors should be prepared for a moderate physical effort, especially climbing the dome stairs. The basilica is accessible via public transport, with the Ottaviano metro station nearby. This tour is suited for those interested in Renaissance architecture, religious art, and panoramic city views. It appeals to travelers comfortable with some physical exertion and who prefer an independent but well-structured visit. It also suits visitors who appreciate detailed historical and artistic information delivered at their own pace.

Take a break from the busy city of Rome on this unique and scenic adventure to the Amalfi Coast and Positano. A comfortable, air-conditioned bus takes you from Rome to the Salerno Harbor. Board your cruise ship as you prepare to set sail for Positano, where you'll have some free time to explore this beautiful coastal village. Follow your professional captain guide to your next stop – Amalfi. Take advantage of a special opportunity to visit the the incredible Amalfi Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Andrew. Roam the charming streets of Amalfi and taste the town’s most famous local product – limoncello! Visit one of the oldest artisanal limoncello producers in town, and learn just how the delicious liquor is produced.

Uncover the secrets of Italian cuisine as you make pizza and tiramisu in a cooking class led by a professional chef. Make your pizza pie from scratch – from rolling to topping – and recreate sweet tiramisu using only quality Italian ingredients while you wait for your pizza to bake. Put your creations to the taste test as you sit down to enjoy the rewards of your labor. Buon appetito!

This guided tour of Rome’s ancient core covers three monumental sites within close proximity: the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Starting at the Colosseum, visitors gain entry with a timed ticket, bypassing the usually long lines, and join a licensed local guide who narrates the stories behind the amphitheater’s gladiatorial combats, architectural innovations, and its role as a symbol of imperial authority. From there, the route leads to the Roman Forum, the sprawling ruins where the political, religious, and commercial activities of Rome’s Republic and Empire unfolded. The tour concludes on Palatine Hill, where guests ascend to one of the city’s original settlements, known as the legendary birthplace of Rome, offering views over the Forum and Circus Maximus. At the Colosseum, attention is drawn to the elliptical structure’s arches, underground hypogeum where animals and gladiators awaited contests, and the seating arrangements that reflected social hierarchies. The Forum reveals remnants of temples such as the Temple of Saturn, the Curia where the Senate met, and the Via Sacra, the main street of public processions. Palatine Hill presents ruins of imperial palaces attributed to Augustus and Domitian, along with gardens and terraces, and provides a sweeping panorama that ties together the historical landscape. Along the way, the guide highlights architectural details, inscriptions, and artifacts that bring the sites to life. The tour operates with small groups to maintain an intimate atmosphere and facilitate detailed commentary. The guide employs a narrative style enriched with archaeological and historical insights, answering questions and tailoring explanations to the group’s interests. There is no transportation included; the sites lie within walking distance of one another in central Rome’s archaeological park. Visitors should prepare for walking on uneven terrain and some stairs, especially at Palatine Hill. This enjoy suits travelers interested in Roman history, archaeology, and architecture who prefer a comprehensive visit to its key ancient landmarks within a manageable timeframe. It is particularly beneficial for first-time visitors who want to gain context before visiting other museums or neighborhoods. The tour provides a solid foundation in the physical and historical layout of ancient Rome’s political and social centers.

Explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel without waiting in line by using skip-the-line tickets. Experience a journey through the awe-inspiring museums, discovering a treasure trove of Roman statues, Renaissance paintings, and Italian artworks. Marvel at the Belvedere and Pinecone Courtyards, the Gallery of Maps, and the Pio Clementino Museum's Greek Cross Hall, Gallery of Statues, and Hall of the Muses. Admire the Raphael Rooms with their famous frescoes by Raphael, including "The School of Athens." Finally, witness the beauty of the Sistine Chapel, adorned with frescoes by Botticelli, Rosselli, Perugino, Ghirlandaio, and of course, Michelangelo's masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling.

This engaging combo of a bus ride and walking tour transports you beyond the bustling city, back to the days of Ancient Rome. The tour starts with a comfortable bus ride to the serene Roman countryside and towards your first stop, the enigmatic Catacombs of San Callisto. The journey continues to the ancient Circus of Maxentius, with a brief stopover at the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella. The grand finale of this day trip is a visit to the awe-inspiring Appian Way and the Claudian Aqueduct - truly unique spots that are a must-add to any Rome itinerary.