Rome: Colosseum, Arena Floor & Ancient City Group Tour
Active
3h
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Want to discover the wonders of Ancient Rome? This 3-hour small-group tour is the best way to explore the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum with ease. With speedy access, a licensed expert guide, and an intimate group size, you’ll enjoy a deeper, more meaningful experience of the Ancient City at an unbeatable value.
Our adventure starts inside the Colosseum, where tales of gladiators, emperors, and architectural brilliance come to life as you take in the sweeping views from above the arena floor.
Next, we'll journey up to Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome and site of the city's grandest imperial palaces, before descending into the Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of Roman society.
Designed for comfort and insight, this well-paced tour gives you plenty of time to ask questions and absorb the fascinating stories behind each site. Space is limited, so don’t miss out! Book now and explore Ancient Rome at the best price.
Available options
Small-Group Arena Tour
Tour Ancient Rome and the Colosseum Arena in a group of up to 12 people for a more intimate experience with your expert guide
Colosseum Arena Tour
Get access to the Colosseum Arena floor and learn about its history of gladiators and battles. Maximum of 24 people per group
Colosseum Tour
Colosseum tour with a maximum of 24 guests. Includes the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum.
Colosseum Express Arena Tour
Discover the Colosseum & Roman Forum in just 1.5 hours! Express tour, max 24 guests, perfect for a fast-paced Rome experience
Small-Group Colosseum Tour
See the Ancient City at a relaxed pace with a group of up to 12 people and personalised attention from your guide.
What's included
Seamless access to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum
Top-rated experience with excellent value for money
Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)
Note: Colosseum fees are as above. The remaining cost of the experience covers other services
Unhurried pace with a carefully designed route
Guided tour with expert storytelling and insights from a licensed guide
Colosseum entrance ticket (valued at €18 per person, or €24 per person if arena access is included)
Headsets provided for clear commentary, even in busy areas
Easy and enjoyable group tour of Ancient Rome
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your expert guide will transport you back to the height of the Roman Empire when the Colosseum was constructed. During this time, Rome was ruled by emperors, the city was filled with riches from across the world, and the Colosseum served as a central venue for games and events featuring animals and people captured from Rome’s territories.
Please note: the tour may start at the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill, depending on ticket availability.
2
Stop 2
Next, you’ll climb Palatine Hill, the legendary site where Rome was founded. The hill is an important archaeological site, with settlements from the Iron Age through the Imperial period. See landmarks such as the Hut of Romulus, Rome’s legendary founder, and the Imperial Palace, where emperors and their families lived and conducted political and administrative affairs.
3
Stop 3
The final stop is the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome. This area was once a bustling center of markets, law courts, temples, and civic life. It was here that Julius Caesar was cremated, two emperors were killed in 69 AD, and Cicero delivered speeches that influenced Western culture for centuries.
What's not included
Access to the Arena floor is not included unless specifically selected for an additional fee
Transportation, food, and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
40 reviews
5★
34
4★
2
3★
1
2★
2
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Full names of all travelers must be provided at the time of booking. Failure to present a voucher with all travelers’ full names at the ticket office may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum
Each traveler must present a valid passport or government-issued ID that matches the name provided at booking for successful entry
The tour may start at either the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill, depending on ticket availability
Colosseum admission is free on the first Sunday of the month; tours on these days are offered at a discounted rate
Want an upgrade? Check out these other options: Small Group Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum Group Tour (12pax), Colosseum Arena Group Tour (24pax), Colosseum Arena Small-Group Tour (24pax)
Meeting point
Please meet us in front the Arch of Constantine. Your guide will be holding a Yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag or sign. Please arrive 10 minutes prior. Late arrivals will not be eligible for refunds.
Important notes
Our guide will meet you at the Arch of Constantine near the Colosseum, holding a yellow flag with the Carpe Diem Tours logo.
Please bring valid identification for all travelers. Customers accompanying children must provide proof of parental or guardian status, and ensure children have identification. This policy ensures the safety of all participants, especially minors. Full names of all travelers, including yourself and any co-travelers, must be provided at the time of booking.
About Rome
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.
Top Attractions
Colosseum
The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.
Historical
1-2 hours
€16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)
Vatican City
Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.
Religious
Half day
€17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.
Historical
1-2 hours
€16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)
Pantheon
The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.
Architecture
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cacio e Pepe
A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
Pasta
Vegetarian
Carbonara
A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.
Pasta
Contains pork and eggs
Supplì
Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.
Snack
Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)
Carciofi alla Romana
Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.
Vegetable
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park
Biking along the Tiber River
Rock climbing in the nearby mountains
Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens
Boating on Lake Albano
Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting the Vatican Museums
Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets
Getting there
By air
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
- Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina
By bus
Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Trastevere
Monti
Prancipio
Testaccio
Day trips
Ostia Antica
30 km from Rome • Half day
An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.
Tivoli
30 km from Rome • Full day
A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.
Orvieto
120 km from Rome • Full day
A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
Festivals
Natale di Roma • April 21
Festa de' Noantri • July
Rome Film Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
- Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
- Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
$83
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
