When it comes to cities that have it all, Rome is one of them. From its vibrant streets to its fascinating history, the Italian capital has so much to offer. If your vacation is taking you to Italy, don’t miss the chance to explore the art, architecture and culture that Rome is so famous for. These are some of the very best tours in Rome - see the most iconic sites of the city or head underground to find out about the Eternal City’s dark history. Whatever you choose to do during your time in Rome, you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with this amazing city.
Best of Rome Walking Tour
If you are on a short visit to Rome, this tour is ideal. At just 2.5 hours you’ll get to see the best bits of this incredible city in the company of an expert, English-speaking guide. The tour runs Monday through Friday, departing at 10.00 am and 3.30 pm. This is one of the best tours in Rome, with the chance to see the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain and so much more.
The tour starts at the Spanish Steps, which are absolutely iconic. An amazing photo opportunity, your guide will be able to tell you all about the history and significance of this fascinating location. From here you’ll wander through the cobbled city streets until you reach the Trevi Fountain. Along the way your tour guide will bring the city to life and share secrets that only a local could know! Once you reach the Trevi Fountain make sure you throw a coin in - legend has it that if you do this, you’ll definitely return to Rome.
After seeing the Trevi Fountain and learning about its interesting conception and history, you’ll start making your way towards the Pantheon - another iconic Roman structure. But first your guide will take you to enjoy a delicious gelato: a famous Italian snack perfect for warm days! It’ll be just what you need to ensure you enjoy this tour to the fullest. The Pantheon, your next stop, is incredible - and you’ll get to hear all about its fascinating past. Raphael’s tomb is here, which is just one of the many wondrous things you’ll see on this tour.
The tour also visits Piazza Colonna with its Column of Marcus Aurelius, and Piazza Navona, home to the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers. Before your tour officially ends, a Campo de’ Fiori, your guide will be sure to give you plenty of recommendations for places to eat and drink as well as other iconic sites to check out during your trip.
Dark Rome Combo Saver: Crypts and Catacombs plus Ghosts Mysteries and Legends of Rome
Keen to see a different side of Rome during your vacation? This is one of the best tours in Rome for those interested in the macabre. The Eternal City has an incredibly dark and diverse history, and this tour will open your eyes to the underbelly of this beautiful place. It is an 8-hour+ tour, running Monday through Friday at 2.30 pm each day.
Starting with the catacombs in the afternoon, you’ll travel by private, air-conditioned vehicle to one of the many catacombs across Rome. These are unground tombs, that once housed thousands upon thousands of bodies when it was considered more hygienic to bury people in this way. The catacombs were also used for worship, when Christian churches were outlawed.
These fascinating underground spaces can get chilly, so bring a jacket with you on this tour. The next stop of this tour is the Basilica of San Clemente, a multi-layered building that is home to a 1st century Roman street (and aqueduct!), a 4th century cult temple and a stunning, 5th century church. You’ll also visit the amazing Capuchin Crypt and museum; the ‘bone chapel’ here is decorated with the skulls of monks, and will truly send shivers down your spin. This is the perfect way to spend an afternoon for those interested in the macabre side of Rome!
After visiting the catacombs, basilica and crypt, the tour will disband. You are free to explore on your own and have something to eat, before regrouping to cross the Tiber. In the evening you’ll take a guided tour of Rome’s historic center while your tour guide tells you some of the most creepy stories from the Eternal City. From the bridge said to be haunted by the ghost of the female Pope to the house of the city’s most notorious murderer, there are some interesting tales to be told during this fantastic tour.
Full-Day Combo: Complete Colosseum & Vatican Museums Tour
Keen to see the most famous sites in Rome during your time in the city? Then this one of the best tours in Rome, giving you the chance to see the Colosseum as well as the Vatican. These are two of the most recognizable sites in Rome, and high on many people’s bucket lists. In a small group with a dedicated, English-speaking tour guide this 9-hour tour will open your eyes to the very best of the city. Running Monday through Saturday at 9.00 am and 10.00 am, this is one of the best tours in Rome to ensure you make the most out of your trip.
Head to the Vatican first and explore the museums here, while your guide lets you into all the secrets and stories that make up the Vatican’s fascinating history. See the spot where the Pope makes his addresses, and admire Michelangelo’s famous Sistine Chapel ceiling. The Vatican is an amazing place, and one that you must visit during a trip to Rome.
The tour will then take you to the Colosseum - home of the famous gladiatorial battles during the time of the Roman Empire, a visit to the Colosseum is like taking a step back in time. You’ll get to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill too, so you can imagine what life was like in Ancient Roman times.
These are some of the best tours in Rome; for history lovers and those who want to know about Rome’s dark side, and those who want to see the most iconic sites across the city, there is something for everyone! It is a city of stunning art and architecture, delicious food and fascinating stories. A trip to Rome will be utterly unforgettable.
