Two of Rome’s most iconic attractions – the Colosseum and the Vatican, join in partnership with our expert English-speaking guides to create a complete culture-packed tour of Rome.
Uncover the Stories of Ancient Rome
Once you meet your expert art historian guide your day of culture will begin. You'll be taken into the Colosseum via our Skip-the-line tickets. Step back in time in this gruesome wonder that struck fear in the heart of both pagans and Christians. As Byron said on his first visit to the Colosseum, ‘Murder breathed her bloody steam’. Your expert historian guide will explain how the amphitheater was built to reflect the culture of the Romans at the time.
No visit to Rome is complete without discovering the birthplace of the city. Your guide will take you up the nearby Palatine Hill to see where Romulus founded the city that expanded into an empire. As you ascend to where the Emperors built their palaces into the hill you’ll also pass through the many temples and columns of the Roman Forum where Senators argued back and forward with each other about whether they wanted a people’s Republic or a semi-divine dictatorship.
Discover the Papal Art Treasures
After your free time, make your way across town where your new guide will take you on their favorite path through the Vatican Museums. The sensational Sistine Chapel awaits. As you delve deeper into the Museums your guide will point out pagan sculptures, massive maps from the middle ages, and the Pope’s personal collection of paintings, tapestries, and unique treasures. You’ll even visit their old papal bedrooms, many of which now hold artworks from the giants of the Renaissance like Raphael and Pinturicchio.
Of course, no trip to the Vatican is complete without the Sistine Chapel and you’ll get to look up at Michelangelo’s magnificent frescoes including the ‘Creation of Adam’ and the ‘Last Judgement’. His name will also be mentioned when you explore St. Peters Basilica and you stand in awe beneath his massive dome and try to make out his hand-carved name on ‘Pietá’. After the basilica, say ‘arrivederci’ to your Vatican guide and make your way through St Peter’s Square.
To discover more, check out our full list of tours in Rome.
Important Notes
- Appropriate dress is required for entry into some sites on this tour. Knees, shoulders, and backs must be covered.
- Please note that in case of unexpected closures of some of the areas inside the Museums, the guide may have to modify the itinerary slightly. For example, if some of the internal connecting areas are closed for safety reasons, Raphael's Rooms may be replaced with Pio Clementino Museum, where Laoocon and Apollo Belvedere statues are.
Cancelation Policy
This tour is subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected