VIP Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Guided Tour
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Step back in time on our expertly guided tour of Ancient Rome’s iconic sites: the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. With faster access, the comfort of a small group, and insights from an expert guide, this best-value experience offers a deep dive into the Eternal City’s past, all in just 3 unforgettable hours.
Your adventure begins inside the Colosseum, where you'll hear stories of gladiators, emperors, and ancient engineering marvels. You’ll get answers to your questions, plus enjoy sweeping views from above the arena that most visitors miss.
Next, we’ll head up Palatine Hill, the mythical birthplace of Rome and home to its grandest imperial palaces. Then descend into the Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of Roman politics and daily life.
With a streamlined itinerary and small group size, this tour offers comfort, insight, and unbeatable value. Spots are limited! Book now to experience Ancient Rome like never before.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please provide the full names of all travellers when booking. Tickets must match these names; failure to present a voucher with all travellers’ full names at the ticket office may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Each traveller must present a valid passport or ID matching the name provided at booking for entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Tour order may vary: we will start with either the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill depending on ticket times.
Colosseum admission is free on the first Sunday of each month. Tours are discounted on these days.
Want an upgrade? Check out these other options: VIP Colosseum Tour (12pax), Colosseum Express Arena Tour (24pax)
What To Expect
Colosseum
Retrace the steps of the gladiators, accompanied by engaging stories from your expert guide. Learn about the social status of spectators, the norms of ancient entertainment, and the gladiatorial games that captivated audiences. Your guide’s storytelling will bring the monument to life. Please note: we may begin with the Colosseum or the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill, depending on ticket availability.
Palatine Hill
The Palatine Hill is one of Rome’s most important and beautiful hills and is a highlight of any city tour. With your guide, explore the birthplace of one of history’s greatest civilizations and the ancient ruins of the Imperial Palace, surrounded by pine trees and views of the Circus Maximus and the Roman Forum below.
Options
Small Group Arena Tour
Small Group Colosseum Arena experience for up to 12 guests with Palatine Hill and Roman Forum included tour.
Colosseum Tour
Colosseum tour with an expert guide. Includes the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum. Duration: 3 hours
Colosseum Arena Tour
Colosseum tour with Arena Floor access, expert guide, and visits to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum. Duration: 3 hours
VIP Colosseum Tour
Small Group Colosseum tour with a maximum of 12 people and visits to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum. Duration: 3 hours
What‘s Included
Colosseum entry ticket and reservation fee included (€18–€24 value)
Admission to the Colosseum Arena Floor (if option selected)
Personalised, group experience offering top-rated value and comfort
Expert storytelling from a licensed historian guide with headphones provided
Admission to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum (if option selected)
Access to the arena floor (unless selected, available for an additional fee)
Food and Beverages
Cancellation Policy
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.
Reviews
1,676 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
So worth it.
Manny D,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was fantastic. Our tour guide was super awesome and knowledgeable. I especially loved being on the grounds in the arena. Incredible.
Colosseum Tour
Greg O,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Sabrina was an amazing tour guide. Answered all our questions and had in depth knowledge of the Colosseum and Paltine Hill. Even gave great suggestions for food and desert which we greatly enjoyed!
DONT book with VIATOR!! Reach out to tour companies directly!
Amanda T,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE! We had a few people leave our group weeks before we got to Italy. I spoke with Viator customer service and they confirmed the names I needed removed from our reservation. The wrong names were removed and we were unable to even enter the Colosseum! We have been offered a refund but we didn’t want the money, we wanted the experience of seeing the Colosseum! Totally ruined our trip as this was one of the biggest highlights for us.
Wonderful guide
Patty C,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Aurora, our tour guide and former history teacher in Italy, was an awesome guide. She was very informative and allowed us time to absorb the surroundings, take pictures and enjoy the experience. She also gave tips for local experiences after the tour.
Terrific tour!
Christine M,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very friendly and knowledgeable guide. She made the excursion interesting and enjoyable. Be prepared for a lot of walking.
Best tour guide ever! 5 stars for Leia!
Sean M,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Lesia was the best tour guide we’ve ever had! So knowledgeable about every facet of the colosseum and Roman history. Very encouraging of questions being asked & would expound even beyond the question asked! 5 stars for Leia!!!
Heaps of interesting...
Aden M,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Heaps of interesting history but not over complicated. We had a fantastic time. Our guide Maria was a legend.
Wonderful In Depth Tour
Davina P,Jun 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Ursus was an excellent guide and did a great job finding shade on this hottest of days! His knowledge of the archeological area was vast and we learned more than anticipated. It was amazing to stand in the middle of ancient history.
Good Tour
Michael H,Jun 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We did all three areas. Alot of space to cover in a short time. So seemed a little rushed but got to see alot and overall had a great time.
Monica, a trained...
Drew G,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Monica, a trained archeologist, was very knowledgeable and explained things well. Loved her demeanor and charm.
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Operated by Carpe Diem Tours