Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women in Rome, Italy
Rome, Italy

Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women

Outty Ranking 81 5.0 · 71 traveler reviews3 hoursFrom €32
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Outty Ranking

81/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 71 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women worth booking?

Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women is a 3-hour experience in Rome, Italy, from €32 per person. It scores 81 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 71 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
81 / 100
Rating
5/5 (71)
Duration
3 hours
From
€32 per person

Welcome, to the most scandalous, jaw-dropping, and utterly fascinating walking tour you never knew you needed! Forget the dry history lectures—this is a tour about the women who made Renaissance Italy sizzle. We will dive deep into the world of Renaissance courtesans, scarlet ladies who played a significant role in the politics of Renaissance Europe. Think of them as muses who inspired some of the greatest artists in history. These women weren’t just beautiful; they were resourceful. You will meet seven unforgettable women, each immortalized in paintings by Caravaggio and Raphael. These weren’t just pretty faces—they were trendsetters, intellectuals, poets, and, in some cases, royal game-changers. Their lives were filled with passion, intrigue, and, of course, a little scandal (okay, a lot of scandal). Expect stories of dangerous ambition and a society that couldn’t decide whether to adore or condemn these women—so naturally, it did both. Trust me, history has never been this juicy.

What you get

    About this experience

    Welcome, to the most scandalous, jaw-dropping, and utterly fascinating walking tour you never knew you needed! Forget the dry history lectures—this is a tour about the women who made Renaissance Italy sizzle. We will dive deep into the world of Renaissance courtesans, scarlet ladies who played a significant role in the politics of Renaissance Europe. Think of them as muses who inspired some of the greatest artists in history. These women weren’t just beautiful; they were resourceful. You will meet seven unforgettable women, each immortalized in paintings by Caravaggio and Raphael. These weren’t just pretty faces—they were trendsetters, intellectuals, poets, and, in some cases, royal game-changers. Their lives were filled with passion, intrigue, and, of course, a little scandal (okay, a lot of scandal). Expect stories of dangerous ambition and a society that couldn’t decide whether to adore or condemn these women—so naturally, it did both. Trust me, history has never been this juicy.

    What's included

    Included

    • Guided tour

    Not included

    • Snacks

    What you'll see and do

    1. Basilica San Marco Evangelista

      The tour begins with a massive statue that in 1477 was named after a famous Courtesan. The statue nowadays is indeed known as "Lady Lucrezia". This XV century woman who lived an incredibly colorful life, is the first story of this storytelling tour

      20 minutes here

    2. Villa Doria Pamphilj

      We make a stop in the courtyard of the Doria Pamphilj, to talk about our second woman named Anna Bianchini, who modeled many times for a famous italian painter known as Caravaggio. Anna was indeed Caravaggio's first model and also the one who modeled for him most of the times

      20 minutes here

    3. Chiesa Di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

      We enter a this magnificent church which is full of important and beautiful artworks and tell we tell the story of the most successful courtesan in all of Europe, back in the early XVI Century

      25 minutes here

    4. Basilica S. Agostino

      Sant'Agostino church is another fantastic site included in this storytelling walking tour. This church is historically related to women, there's so many stories about the women in here and plus, there is the original "Virgin Mary and the Pilgrims" canvas painted by Caravaggio

      20 minutes here

    5. Via dei Coronari

      On this storytelling walking tour, we walk amongst original XVI and XV century building that back in the day, were owned by Courtesans. This is the Best Way to bing the stories to Life, since we are really able to eye-witness what their daily life was really like

      10 minutes here

    6. Campo De' Fiori

      Are you a Borgia Family fan? oh well, you will love the story of Vannozza Cattanei, mother of Cesare and Lucrezia Borgia. Her story is incredible and usually is people's favorite story in all of the tour.

      20 minutes here

    7. Piazza Farnese

      Here in Piazza Farnese, right by the beautiful Palazzo designed by Michelangelo which is the French Embassy today, the tour ends with the sad story of Giulia Farnese. We don't spoil anything but the finale of the tour is really moving...

      20 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Rome

    The meeting point for this tour is adjacent to Piazza Venezia. In this piazza, you will see Rome's biggest monument. The locals call it the "Wedding Cake Monument," although its proper name is the "Victorian." Facing it, you will find our meeting point, Basilica San Marco, on your right.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    The Scarlet Ladies walking tour ends in Piazza Farnese, a very central location adjacent to Campo de' Fiori square and very close to Piazza Navona too. Nearby the ending point of this tour there's a taxi stand, as well as many bus stops.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Thu
    Group size
    Up to 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Storytelling Rome Tours & Walks

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • The itinerary of the tour is 95% accessible to wheelchairs. There's only 2 churches which are hard to get in with a wheelchair but that doesn't manage the content of the tour, since in that case we just tell the story outside of the church

    Photos

    4 Friends standing by an original XV CenturyCourtesan's home, Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women in RomeTwo women holding images of famous Renaissance Courtesans, Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women in RomeA big group of friends, enjoying the stories of Historical Women, Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women in RomeThis young couple of the Scarlet Ladies tour for their honeymoon, Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women in RomeHearing the story of Giulia Farnese, finale of the Scarlet Ladies tour, Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women in RomeHaving a lot of fun with the stories of the Borgia Family, Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women in Rome

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 71 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    8 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    3 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Traveler reviews

    71 verified traveler reviews for Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    71
    4 star
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    3 star
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    2 star
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    ilariapN1309MV · March 2026

    Tour Courtesans

    Massimo is a guarantee. It's not the first time we've taken a tour with him, but he always manages to entertain and amuse us. This tour on the Courtesans in particular is definitely the most exciting, and you experience Rome through the most beautiful alleys in an atmosphere that takes us back to that era. I highly recommend it; you'll learn a lot and have a blast.

    via Tripadvisor

    jacunag · January 2026

    Fun, informative, engaging.

    Massimo is a great tour guide. Very entertaining and knowledgeable of the history of Rome and the city. Recommended 100%!

    via Tripadvisor

    401desireej · January 2026

    One of the Most Interesting Tours I’ve Done in Rome: Renaissance Stories You Won’t Hear Elsewhere

    Yesterday I did the Scarles Ladies tour with Massimo! It exceeded all of my expectations! I absolutely loved it. It’s such a refreshing way to experience Rom,e and that says something coming from a local for 10 years now! It focuses on the women behind the art, power, and scandals of the Renaissance rather than the usual historical narrative of the still fabulous sites in Rome. Massimo's storytelling is so engaging and easy to follow that it really brought the women connected to Caravaggio and the Borgias to life in a way that felt human and memorable. Even though I know Rome well, I learned so many new details and saw familiar places from a completely different perspective. The pace was relaxed, the route was beautiful, and time flew by. If you’re looking for something a bit different from the standard Rome tours, but at the same time thoughtful, well-researched, and genuinely interesting, I highly recommend this one. Bravo Massimo, this will certainly not be my last tour with you :)

    via Tripadvisor

    Mara T · January 2026

    Great tour, thank you Massimo!

    I live in Rome, but I spent many years in the United States, so I often have friends coming to visit. After exploring the usual tourist attractions like the Colosseum and the Vatican, I used to wonder what else I could show them. Even though I was born and raised in Rome, I thought my city had little more to offer beyond those highlights. Oh, how wrong I was. Through friends, I heard about Massimo’s storytelling walking tours and decided to give one a try. What a mesmerizing experience! Massimo’s tours are thoughtfully crafted, unique, fun, and deeply engaging. He truly brings history to life. The Renaissance Women tour is pure genius. It explores the lives of seven women who lived between the 1400s and the 1600s—many of whom modeled for great artists such as Raphael and Caravaggio. The tour leads you through churches, historic buildings, and both iconic and lesser-known corners of Rome. It felt like being transported back in time. It was a truly wonderful experience, and I highly recommend this tour to anyone. It’s perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned Rome lovers. Let Massimo take you on a journey and prepare to be amazed by the city of Rome and its extraordinary historical figures—especially the women.

    via Tripadvisor

    Michelle_E · November 2025

    Massimo Brings History Alive

    Massimo uses knowledge and humor to share what life was like for women. This was an enjoyable way to learn about aspects of economic reality of the time while seeing sights often overlooked by tourists,

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    3 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Thu
    Price range
    €32 to €39
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    25
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Storytelling Rome Tours & Walks, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 77.1.

    See everything Storytelling Rome Tours & Walks runs

    Why this scores 81

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)94
    Review evidence (18% weight)58
    Booking momentum (14% weight)52
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)85
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rome.

    How much does Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women cost?

    +

    Prices start at €32 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rome usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women take?

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    Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rome is not rushed.

    Is Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 81 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 71 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Rome, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women?

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    Around 25 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rome can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rome and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rome within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Rome?

    +

    Rome runs on skip-the-line access. The Colosseum underground, the Vatican before opening, and the catacombs south of the walls all require a licensed operator, and the price gap between the good ones and the rest is smaller than you would expect. We rank by guide credentials, group size and how reliably the promised access actually materialises. On Outty we rank every Rome experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Rome Pizza & Gelato Class with Wine by Cooking Italy, Rome [4in1] Pasta Making_Tiramisù_Wine Tasting_Secret Cellar, Rome Pasta and Tiramisu Class: Ravioli, Fettuccine & Fine Wine 5*. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Rome?

    +

    April, May, September and October. August is hot and half the city is shut. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Rome?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women?

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    Included: Guided tour. Not included: Snacks. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women?

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    The meeting point for this tour is adjacent to Piazza Venezia. In this piazza, you will see Rome's biggest monument. The. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and The itinerary of the tour is 95% accessible to wheelchairs. There's only 2 churches which. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Rome. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Renaissance Scarlet Ladies Tour: Caravaggio's and Borgia's Women?

    +

    Across 71 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

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