Explore the grandeur of ancient Rome and the Vatican with this full-day guided tour. Discover the iconic Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum, then explore the Vatican’s artistic treasures, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and art lovers, offering reserved access for a seamless experience. Prepare to be captivated by the rich history and breathtaking sights that await.
Key Points
- Comprehensive guided tour covering the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica in a single day.
- Morning Colosseum tour with expert English-speaking guides and reserved entry, followed by afternoon Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel exploration.
- Moderate fitness level required due to extensive walking, with comfortable shoes recommended.
- Entrance fees to Colosseum (€18 per person) and modest attire covering shoulders and knees required.
- Tour logistics include meeting points, transportation time between locations, and need for voucher with participant names for entry confirmation.
Here's some other tours and experiences nearby that we've reviewed.
Tour Overview
This full-day guided tour combines two of Rome’s best-selling experiences into one comprehensive adventure.
Travelers will explore the iconic Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum in the morning, followed by an immersion in the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica in the afternoon.
Led by expert English-speaking guides, the tour provides reserved access and audio headsets to enhance the experience.
With a moderate fitness level required, this package offers a seamless way to see Rome’s most renowned landmarks in a single day.
Inclusions and Requirements
The tour includes a professional guide, reserved access to the attractions, and audio headsets to enhance the experience. Entrance to the Colosseum is included, costing €18 per person. However, food and drinks are not provided. A moderate level of physical fitness is required due to the extensive walking. Participants must also ensure their shoulders and knees are covered when visiting the holy sites.
| Requirements | Details |
|---|---|
| Physical Fitness | Moderate level |
| Attire | Shoulders and knees covered |
| Personal Information | Participant names required at booking |
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and a voucher with full names is necessary for entry.
Meeting Points and Logistics
The morning Colosseum tour starts at Largo Gaetana Agnesi, above the Colosseo metro stop on line B (blue line).
Participants then meet the Vatican tour group at Via Tunisi, 4, across from the Vatican Museums entrance.
There’s approximately 2 hours of free time between the two tours, allowing participants to arrange their own transportation, such as by taxi or metro, to the Vatican.
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the extensive walking required during the tours.
Participants’ names are required at booking for entry, and modest attire covering shoulders and knees is necessary for the holy sites.
Exploring the Colosseum
After passing through the entrance gates of the iconic Colosseum, visitors are greeted by the sheer scale and grandeur of this ancient Roman amphitheater. As they step inside, they can imagine the roar of the crowds and the spectacle of gladiatorial battles that once took place within these walls. The guided tour provides insights into the Colosseum’s history, architecture, and the brutal games that were held here. Visitors can explore the underground tunnels, walk along the arena floor, and marvel at the engineering feats that made this iconic landmark possible.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 50,000 spectators |
| Construction | Completed in 80 AD |
| Dimensions | 620 ft long, 188 ft wide, 157 ft tall |
| Purpose | Gladiatorial contests and public spectacles |
| Materials | Concrete, stone, and sand |
Discovering the Vatican Museums
As visitors transition from the Colosseum to the Vatican Museums, they’ll find themselves immersed in a treasure trove of art, history, and religious significance.
The tour guides lead them through the vast galleries, sharing insights into the extensive collection. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s masterpieces adorn the ceiling and walls.
The group then proceeds to St. Peter’s Basilica, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture.
Throughout the experience, the audio headsets allow visitors to hear the guides’ narration clearly, enhancing their understanding of the sacred sites.
The opportunity to skip the lines ensures a seamless and efficient exploration of these iconic Vatican landmarks.
Marveling at St. Peter’s Basilica
Having explored the grandeur of the Vatican Museums, visitors now find themselves standing before the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica.
This architectural masterpiece, with its towering dome, intricate façade, and breathtaking interior, leaves an indelible impression. Visitors will marvel at the stunning artwork, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and the expansive altar beneath the dome.
The sheer scale and grandeur of the basilica are truly awe-inspiring. Guided tours provide insights into the history and significance of this sacred space, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its cultural and religious significance.
With its stunning beauty and rich heritage, St. Peter’s Basilica is a must-see destination for any trip to Rome.
Tour Experiences and Feedback
Travelers who embark on this comprehensive tour of the Colosseum and Vatican City can expect an engaging and informative experience led by expert English-speaking guides. Reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable and storytelling abilities of the guides, providing valuable insights into the history and significance of these iconic sites.
The overall tour experience is positively received, with many noting:
- Engaging and immersive tours of the Colosseum and Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel.
- Comfortable pacing that allows for exploration and reflection at each location.
- Helpful audio headsets that ensure clear communication from the guide.
While some feedback mentions occasional timing issues or communication challenges between the separate tours, the majority of travelers find this combined tour to be a remarkable and memorable experience.
Pricing and Booking Information
The tour is priced from $129.10 per person, with a lowest price guarantee. Customers can book with free cancellation up to 3 days in advance.
The tour has a maximum group size of 22 travelers. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and travelers must provide their full names for entry.
The tour price includes access to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica, as well as expert English-speaking guides and audio headsets.
Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation between the morning and afternoon tour locations.
More Of Our Reviews In This Region
- Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Fully Guided Tour
- Pompeii Day Trip From Rome With Mount Vesuvius or Positano Option
- Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peters Basilica
- Pizza Cooking Class in Rome – Near Piazza Navona
- Cooking Class in the Heart of Rome: Pizza and Tiramisu Making
- Pasta Cooking Class in Rome – Fettuccine Class in Piazza Navona
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 22 travelers. The tour information states that the tour has a maximum group size of 22 participants.
Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?
The tour does not provide luggage storage options. Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodations or luggage storage during the tour. Travelers should plan accordingly and only bring essential items they can comfortably carry throughout the day.
Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?
Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a private tour. Travelers can choose a private guided tour for more personalized attention and flexibility. Private tours are available at an additional cost beyond the standard group tour price.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour offers student and senior discounts, though the amount may vary. Guests should check the tour’s website or contact the provider directly to inquire about any available discounts before booking.
Can I Take Photographs Inside the Sistine Chapel?
Unfortunately, no photography or filming is allowed inside the Sistine Chapel. Visitors must remain silent and respectful while admiring the chapel’s stunning artwork and frescoes. This rule is strictly enforced by the Vatican staff.
WEe've also reviewed these experiences happening neaby
- Rome Full Day Tour & Wine Tasting
- Dolce and Gabbana Rome With Personal Shopper and Make-Up Artist
- Vatican Museums & Basilica of St. Peter
- Private Hidden Rome Tour: Uncover the Beauty of the Eternal City
- Rome: Pantheon Entry Tickets With Digital Audioguide
- Customizable Private Tour of Rome
- Wine Tasting in Montepulciano With Visit to the Vineyards Private Tour
- E-Tuk Tour Rome by Night
- Private Transfer From Rome to Sorrento
- 2-Hour Walking Tour in Romes Enchanting Jewish Ghetto
- Highlights of Rome
- 3-Hour Private Golf Cart Tour Around Rome
- Pantheon and Trevi Fountain Underground Guided Tour
- Private Wine Tasting (Local) With Artichoke in Rome
- Private Transfer From ROME to SORRENTO
The Sum Up
Enjoy the grandeur of ancient Rome and the Vatican on this full-day guided tour. Explore the iconic Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum, then explore the Vatican’s artistic masterpieces, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. With reserved access and expert commentary, this tour provides a seamless and enriching experience for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.