Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour
Traveler rating
4.4/5
Based on 620 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour worth booking?
Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour is a 2.5-hour experience in Rome, Italy, from €30 per person. It scores 75 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 620 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 168 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 75 / 100
- Rating
- 4.4/5 (620)
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- From
- €30 per person
Enjoy an audio guide journey through Ancient Rome with the Colosseum, one of the most iconic and famous monuments of the ancient times. You will learn of its incredible construction, the intrigue of those responsible for its erection, and of course its impressive exterior. Explore what remains of the Ancient City as you follow your guide through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. These areas, once the thriving city center of Rome, are now active archaeological sites.
What you get
- Colosseum entrance ticket (valued at €18 per person)
- Colosseum Entrance with Audio Guide
- Professional tour guide for Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)
- Headsets
- Please note: Colosseum fees as above. The remaining cost of the experience covers other services.
About this experience
Enjoy an audio guide journey through Ancient Rome with the Colosseum, one of the most iconic and famous monuments of the ancient times. You will learn of its incredible construction, the intrigue of those responsible for its erection, and of course its impressive exterior. Explore what remains of the Ancient City as you follow your guide through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. These areas, once the thriving city center of Rome, are now active archaeological sites.
What's included
Included
- Colosseum entrance ticket (valued at €18 per person)
- Colosseum Entrance with Audio Guide
- Professional tour guide for Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)
- Headsets
- Please note: Colosseum fees as above. The remaining cost of the experience covers other services.
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Roman Forum
Delve into the layers of history and architecture as you follow your guide through the Roman Forum. Discover the Temple of Julius Caesar and the House of the Vestal Virgin as your guide describes what life was like in Ancient Rome.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Palatine Hill
Discover what remains of the emperors' palaces as you stroll the lofty heights of the Palatine Hill. Learn about the foundation of Rome and its legendary characters, like Romulus and Remus, as you enjoy breathtaking views of the Roman skyline.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Colosseum
Built in 80 AD, the Colosseum in one of the ancient world's longest surviving monuments. Discover the hidden details in its facade as your guide describes the incredible "100 Day of Games" that celebrated the Colosseum's inauguration. Imagine the roar of the crowds that once filled the arena as you learn about the gladiator battles that took place center stage.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Rome
Meet in front of the Basilica San Cosma and Damiano. Look for tour greeters in red Show Me Italy jackets/shirts. They will be waiting next to the large red pillar just in front of the church on the Via dei Fori Imperiali.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
English
Italian
French
Spanish
German
Portuguese
Before you book
- Cancellation
- If you cancel at least 7 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 7 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
- Languages
- de, pt, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Show Me Italy
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Please arrive 15 minutes before the starting time
- Please provide the full names of all travelers when booking. Failure to present a voucher with all travelers' full names at the ticket office prior to entry may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
- Refunds will not be provided for no-shows or late arrivals. If you are late to arrive at the meeting point, you will not be able to join your tour.
- Tours will run rain or shine (unless the monument is closed by the official administration for safety reasons)
- The tour itinerary can start with either the Colosseum or the Palatine Hill/Roman.
- The meeting time can be subject to change. In this case, we will call/text you in advance to let you know.
- Aerosols, sharp objects and large backpacks will not be allowed
- There are mandatory security checks at all entry points to the sites. The time spent in the security line varies and this line cannot be ‘skipped.’ The wait time for the security check can be considerable during peak times/seasons and has nothing to do with the ticket line.
- When booking for children under 18 years, a government-issued ID/passport will be required when entering the monument. Failure to bring an ID with you can result in the security staff refusing you entrance to the monument.
- Each traveler must present a valid passport or ID document that matches the name provided at the time of booking for successful entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
- The itinerary may vary, the tour may start at either the Colosseum or the Roman Forum.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 620 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
620 verified traveler reviews for Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Horrible
Canceled a tour booked 3 months in advanced. We even agree to change our tour language to keep the same time we booked. Do not recommend ever.
Response from the operator: We sincerely apologize for the cancellation and the disappointment it caused, especially after booking three months in advance and agreeing to change the tour language. We understand your frustration and are truly sorry we could not provide the experience you had planned.
via Tripadvisor
Kimberly
Lots of walking but you get to see everything. Very knowledgeable really enjoyed the forum, Palentine Hill, and Coliseum
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed exploring the Forum, Palatine Hill, and Colosseum and found the tour informative. We hope to welcome you again for another memorable experience in Rome!
via Viator
Disappointing
The tour guide contacted us that part of our tour was canceled, we responded that we wanted to cancel because seeing the forum floor was what we were most looking forward to. They then recanted and said we could see the forum floor but that the tour was pushed back an hour. This was all the day of the tour. Again we stated we wanted a refund as the hour delay made it impossible for us to get to our other reservation. The experience was disappointing. We had to request refund several times and eventually had to go through aviator customer service. We did get refunded, so that was a plus.
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We sincerely apologize for the confusion and inconvenience caused by the last-minute changes to your tour. We understand how frustrating it must have been to first be informed that part of the experience was canceled, then told that it was available after all but with a one-hour delay. We also understand that this change affected your other reservation and ultimately made the experience impossible for you. We are especially sorry that you had to request your refund multiple times and contact customer service before the matter was resolved. This is not the level of communication or service we aim to provide. We’re reviewing what happened internally to better understand where the communication and refund process fell short. We appreciate your patience and are glad that the refund was ultimately completed. Thank you again for bringing this to our attention.
via Viator
A MUST BOOK experience
I love that the tour operator was so knowledgeable and had great enthusiasm for his job. A beautiful excursion and experience. Would absolutely book again! Our tour also gave us an all access pass to colosseum which was amazing! Beautiful views
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the excursion, the beautiful views, and the Colosseum access. It’s great to hear that our guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm made the experience even more special. We’d be delighted to welcome you back again! 😊
via Viator
AVOID!! Show me Italy = Show me a bad time
If I could give zero stars I would. Before the tour started they didn't reply to any questions via app or email. We were at the meeting point early, and I was told I had booked an audio tour not an in person guide. Thought it was my mistake, asked for clarity and could not get it in person due to language barrier so I continued into the Roman forum. When I tried to open the audio tour, I couldn't get on as I did in fact book an in person tour! Rang the helpline with no answer, eventually got through to an office in GREECE! Who knew nothing about my tour in Rome (cant blame him for that!). Eventually got a reply on WhatsApp and they said go enjoy the audio tour, the in person tour meeting point was outside the gate and if I left I would not be able to get back in as my tickets had been scanned. Except I still couldn't access the audio tour as that wasnt my package I bought. They never sent on a new code to access it. I asked multiple times when would the guide be leaving the meeting point around the corner (1min walk) and where in the Roman Forum could we meet him. Asked for anyways to sort the problem, gave some suggestions of where we could meeting the guide, etc, and I was ignored on all fronts. Eventually I sent so many messages and calls they offered me a refund and would just keep the price of the ticket entry to both sites, which I was happy with. I had to follow up twice before it was sent. The entry tickets are avilable online unguided for €18 each per person for both sites, so €36 for us from the €118 spend. Ive been refunded €66, so they have kept €16 for the fun of it apparently. I have asked for an itemised receipt to see where this money has gone and have received no replies to my queries. Messages marked as read and no reply. A bunch of cowboys profiting off people trying to understand the history of the Eternal city. Avoid Show me Italy. Had a fabulous time on other tours with City Wonders Tours during our stay. Have given 5 stars reviews to them, check them out instead 👍🏻
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 168h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- €30 to €59
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 217
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Show Me Italy, who run 21 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 59.6.
See everything Show Me Italy runsWhy this scores 75
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rome.
How much does Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour cost?
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Prices start at €30 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 Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour take?
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Plan for about 2.5 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 Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 75 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 620 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Rome, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 168 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour?
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Around 217 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?
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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 2.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour 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?
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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?
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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?
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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 Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour?
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Included: Colosseum entrance ticket (valued at €18 per person); Colosseum Entrance with Audio Guide; Professional tour guide for Roman Forum and Palatine Hill; Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person); and Headsets. Not included: Food and drinks; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour?
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Meet in front of the Basilica San Cosma and Damiano. Look for tour greeters in red Show Me Italy jackets/shirts. They wi. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour offered in?
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It is offered in German, Portuguese, English, Italian, French and Spanish. 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 Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour?
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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 Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Rome. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 168 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour?
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Across 620 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Rome Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour?
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There are 6 options to choose from, including English, Italian, French, Spanish. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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