Sons of Empire - Discover the history of Ancient Roman Emperors

Rome , Italy

Sons of Empire - Discover the history of Ancient Roman Emperors

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About this experience

Walk in the footsteps of emperors as we travel back 2000 years to the height of the Roman Empire, in this immersive private tour!

Guided by a local historian, enjoy a walk through as we roam around the stunning streets of Rome, visiting Via del Corso, the Pantheon, Ponte Sant’ Angelo and Castel Sant’Angelo.

Learn about the transition between Republic and Empire, Rome’s expansion across Europe, and finally the Empire’s eventual fall. Discover the stunning streets of Rome as you take photos in the best sightseeing spots and learn more about the most famous people in history.

Venture off the tourist trail and get a local feel for the area, as you experience the area’s history through these picturesque streets. Explore the beautiful architecture, secret gems and unforgettable iconic sights as you transport yourselves in an engaging, quirky and captivating adventure.

Note: This is a self-guided audio walking tour and does not include entrance tickets

Available options

Sons of Empire - Discover the history of Ancient Roman Emperors

What's included

Offline Mode: Download tours in advance to listen without WiFi

Location Aware: GPS map allows you to enjoy sites, without getting lost

Access to your self-guided audio tour

Instagram Hotspots: We find the spot for your perfect picture

Audio tour provided by a local or historian

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Begin at the Mausoleum of Augustus: the perfect place to start our tour, as it was home to the very first Emperor of Rome, Augustus! Learn about Rome’s transition from Republic to Empire with the death of Julius Caesar and the reign of Emperor Augustus.

Stop 2

Originally built in the 3rd century as part of the Via Flaminia, an ancient road linking Rome to the North and the Adriatic sea, Via del Corso is one of the city’s most famous streets. The ‘Corso’, in its current name, relates to the horse racecourse which ran through here, as part of the carnival celebrations.

Stop 3

On this very spot stood the Temple of Marcus Aurelius, erected by Commodus to deify his father and make people regard him as a God. Learn about ancient Roman architecture and the city’s melding of ancient and modern history.

Stop 4

Visit the Pantheon, one of the most impressive structures still standing in the city which is a temple to every single Roman God! Originally built by Marcus Agrippa, a lieutenant of Augustus, in 27BC, it burnt down and was redesigned and reopened around 125AD, during the reign of Hadrian. Head inside this amazing structure, one of the most important relics of Imperial Rome standing today.

Visit the last surviving remnants of one of the great bath complexes in Rome. The ones in this location were the second largest in Rome and were originally built sometime around 60 AD, during the reign of the infamous Emperor Nero. See the merging of old and new in person.

Stop 5

Welcome to the beautiful, vibrant Piazza Navona. Spot the Fountain of Neptune and the Fountain of the Moor. The figures here represent the rivers from the four known continents at its time of unveiling in 1651- the Rio de la Plata for the Americas, the Danube for Europe, the Nile for Africa and the Ganges for Asia.

Stop 6

Cross Ponte Sant’ Angelo and arrive at the Castel Sant’Angelo. Then take a look to your left to see the breath-taking St Peter’s Basilica.

What's not included

Headphones

Mobile device

Available languages

Audio guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

This is not your ticket! You will receive a separate email with a link to your tour. From that email, please click 'Download Now', install the Vidi Guides app, create an account within the app and click 'GetMyTour'. The tour will then be ready for download within your profile section. You can start the tour whenever you like!

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