Vatican and Colosseum Tour in Rome, Italy
Rome, Italy

Vatican and Colosseum Tour

Outty Ranking 45 3.2 · 5 traveler reviews9 hoursFrom $458
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Outty Ranking

45/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

3.2/5

Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Vatican and Colosseum Tour worth booking?

Vatican and Colosseum Tour is a 9-hour experience in Rome, Italy, from $458 per person. It scores 45 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.2/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
45 / 100
Rating
3.2/5 (5)
Duration
9 hours
From
$458 per person

Discover the very best of Rome in a single day with this unforgettable guided experience combining the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and Vatican Museums. Skip the long lines and journey through more than 2,000 years of history as you explore the landmarks that shaped the Roman Empire and the Catholic Church. Walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators at the Colosseum, uncover the ruins of ancient Rome in the Roman Forum, and admire the birthplace of the Eternal City on Palatine Hill. Continue your experience at the Vatican Museums, home to one of the world's greatest art collections. Visit highlights such as the Gallery of Maps, the Raphael Rooms, and the Gallery of Tapestries before entering the world-famous Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo's masterpieces await. Led by an expert guide, this tour offers the perfect introduction to Rome's history, art, and culture, bringing together the city's most iconic attractions in one remarkable experience.

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover the very best of Rome in a single day with this unforgettable guided experience combining the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and Vatican Museums. Skip the long lines and journey through more than 2,000 years of history as you explore the landmarks that shaped the Roman Empire and the Catholic Church. Walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators at the Colosseum, uncover the ruins of ancient Rome in the Roman Forum, and admire the birthplace of the Eternal City on Palatine Hill. Continue your experience at the Vatican Museums, home to one of the world's greatest art collections. Visit highlights such as the Gallery of Maps, the Raphael Rooms, and the Gallery of Tapestries before entering the world-famous Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo's masterpieces await. Led by an expert guide, this tour offers the perfect introduction to Rome's history, art, and culture, bringing together the city's most iconic attractions in one remarkable experience.

    What's included

    Included

    • Entrance fees to the Colosseum and Vatican Museums with guided tour
    • Hotel pickup
    • Small group limited to a maximum of 20 people

    Not included

    • Hotel drop off
    • Transfers from the Vatican Museums to the Colosseum
    • Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica (self-guided visit possible)
    • Lunch

    What you'll see and do

    1. Vatican Museums

      The Vatican museums represent the most visited museums by tourists traveling in Italy. Vatican Museums are located in Viale Vaticano in Rome, within the Vatican City State. Founded by Pope Julius II in the 16th century, they occupy a large part of the vast courtyard of the Belvedere and they have one of the largest art collections in the world, since they exhibit the huge collection of works of art accumulated over the centuries by the Popes

      180 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Sistine Chapel Savona

      The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the pope, in Vatican City. The chapel has served as a place of both religious and functionary papal activity. Today, it is the site of the papal conclave, the process by which a new pope is selected. The fame of the Sistine Chapel lies mainly in the frescos that decorate the interior, most particularly the Sistine Chapel ceiling and The Last Judgment by Michelangelo

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Citta del Vaticano

      Vatican City, officially Vatican City State is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    4. St. Peter's Basilica

      St. Peter's Square is a large plaza located directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City, the papal enclave inside Rome. At the centre of the square is an ancient Egyptian obelisk, erected at the current site in 1586. Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed the square almost 100 years later, including the massive Doric colonnades,four columns deep, which embrace visitors in "the maternal arms of Mother Church". A granite fountain constructed by Bernini in 1675 matches another fountain designed by Carlo Maderno in 1613.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Via dei Fori Imperiali

      The Via dei Fori Imperiali is a road in the centre of the city of Rome, Italy, that runs in a straight line from the Piazza Venezia to the Colosseum. Its course takes it over parts of the Forum of Trajan, Forum of Augustus and Forum of Nerva, parts of which can be seen on both sides of the road.

      Pass by without stopping

    6. Colosseum

      The Colosseum or Coliseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre is an oval amphitheatre in the centre of the city of Rome. Built of travertine, tuff, and brick-faced concrete, it is the largest amphitheatre ever built. The Colosseum is situated just east of the Roman Forum. Construction started with the emperor Vespasian in AD 72, and was completed in AD 80 under his successor and heir Titus. Further modifications were made during the reign of Domitian (81–96). These three emperors are known as the Flavian dynasty, and the amphitheatre was named in Latin for its association with their family name (Flavius). On the other hand, the name Colosseum is believed to be derived from a colossal statue of Nero that once stood nearby.

      180 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers.

    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
    Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Group size
    Up to 20 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    ROMAETRAVEL

    Know before you go

    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Vatican and Colosseum Tour in Rome, photo 2Vatican and Colosseum Tour in Rome, photo 3Vatican and Colosseum Tour in Rome, photo 4Vatican and Colosseum Tour in Rome, photo 5Vatican and Colosseum Tour in Rome, photo 6Vatican and Colosseum Tour in Rome, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    3 mentions

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

    Food and drink

    2 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Organization

    1 mention

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    5 verified traveler reviews for Vatican and Colosseum Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    2
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
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    Sort
    larry_o · July 2019

    Rome tour

    Good guide, started 1.5 hours late, they failed to advise driver we would be late, only had 5 minutes for lunch. Driver very kind, not aware of late start, allowed us to eat while traveling, Guid;e left us in Vatican to make our way back to lunch. Late start caused us to arrive in middle of hugh crowd, very packed. More communications between guide and related services needs improvement

    via Viator

    Fearless16825685604 · June 2019

    Warning worst company

    This is the worst company to ever book with. Booked a complete package with them while in Rome. Firstly they call and tell u they have to change the date and lie about the reasons why. So the changed date comes the driver comes late. They bring u to the Vatigan which is a badly organized tour promising u lunch then the Collisuim then Catacoombs . They then tell u that they cant do the Collesium cause its closed which was another lie as we went there and was full of people. The tour guide who speaks hardly any English dumps u at the Vatigan and u have to find your way back to a booking office for details of lunch. Lunch was a joke as the restaurant was full as well. Then they lie about not taking you to the Collesuim cause they says it closed. After complaining on the telephone and their bad customer service eventually they agree to take you to the Catacoombs. Just please be warned a very unprofessional company who will take your money and wont deliver your tour u paid for. Other professional company exist do your research and look at thos companies other bad reviews

    Response from the operator: Good evening, We are really shocked to read your review and I would like to take this occasion to reply to your comments one by one: 1. It's not true that we lied. You have attempted to book the Vatican Tour on Sunday which is closed and as a form of courtesy, we tried to re-arrange your tour on a different date. 2. The Colosseum on that date has closed the tickets office earlier because it was overbooked and didn't accept other tourists. We didn't say it was closed, it wasn't possible to get in. Obviously, the people already inside were doing their tour and didn't have to leave the Colosseum (that's why you'seen lots of people inside). 3. The restaurant was full as other places right in the center of Rome, near the Vatican. In high season is very difficult to find an empty restaurant next to St. Peter. 4. We offered you a solution and you agreed to go to the catacombs instead of the Colosseum (which is a tour even more expensive). I just find frustrating that you seemed to be happy enough to do the catacombs and then once back you wrote such a bad review. Romaetravel is made of people that love their jobs, try their best to deliver a great customer service and thankfully lots of people recognize that!

    via Viator

    Melanie_P · May 2019

    Wouldn't Recommend

    This was just a transport service from one tour to another. The first guide was good, but the second one was awful. She argued with a colleague and complained the whole time about some people that left the tour. I would have been better off booking separate, five star tours on my own.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    9 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Price range
    $458 to $500
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by ROMAETRAVEL, who run 58 experiences we rank across 5 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 50.4.

    See everything ROMAETRAVEL runs

    Why this scores 45

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)54
    Review evidence (18% weight)24
    Booking momentum (14% weight)17
    Value for money (12% weight)37
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)14
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Vatican and Colosseum Tour: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Vatican and Colosseum Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $458 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 Vatican and Colosseum Tour take?

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    Plan for about 9 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 Vatican and Colosseum Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 45 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.2/5 across 5 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 Vatican and Colosseum Tour?

    +

    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 Vatican and Colosseum Tour suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Vatican and Colosseum Tour?

    +

    Around 2 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 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Vatican and Colosseum Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Vatican and Colosseum Tour?

    +

    Included: Entrance fees to the Colosseum and Vatican Museums with guided tour; Hotel pickup; and Small group limited to a maximum of 20 people. Not included: Hotel drop off; Transfers from the Vatican Museums to the Colosseum; Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica (self-guided visit possible); and Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Vatican and Colosseum Tour include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 5 listed pickup locations in and around Rome. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Vatican and Colosseum Tour 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 Vatican and Colosseum Tour?

    +

    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.

    What happens to Vatican and Colosseum Tour 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 Vatican and Colosseum Tour?

    +

    Across 5 reviews averaging 3.2 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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