View History Contact Operator Last updated: June 19, 2025

Best of Rome: Vatican & Colosseum Highlights

Summary Description

Some say that Rome can’t be visited in one day, but we would argue! With an expert and knowledgeable local guide you’ll experience the Vatican museums and Sistine Chapel, then enjoy exclusive Colosseum Arena access via the Gladiator's Gate. To top it off, wander the ancient wonders of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill!

Highlights
  • So many takeaways! What’s all the fuss about a she-wolf? Did all roads really lead to Rome?
  • Pre-reserved entry to FOUR venues along this tour
  • A morning and an afternoon tour, with plenty of time in between for a leisurely Roman lunch
  • Exclusive access onto the Arena floor of the Colosseum
  • Description

    Kick off your exclusive adventure at the Vatican, where your expert guide will take you past the lines and straight into the magnificent Vatican Museums. This curated tour showcases an awe-inspiring collection, from ancient Greek and Roman sculptures to breathtaking Renaissance masterpieces. As you stroll through the galleries, marvel at the Raphael Rooms and the iconic ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will bring Michelangelo's genius to life, dispelling myths and unveiling fascinating facts.

     After soaking in the artistic wonders of the Sistine Chapel, enjoy some free time to explore the Vatican Museums further. Alternatively, take advantage of fast-track entry to St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can admire the grandeur of this architectural marvel on a self-guided tour at your own pace.

     Following a lunch break, make your way independently to the iconic Colosseum. With your exclusive entrance, you'll quickly enter through the legendary Gladiator's Gate, stepping onto the Arena floor where history's fiercest battles once unfolded. Your guide will vividly recount the infamous gladiator games, separating fact from Hollywood fiction as you stand on the arena floor and peer down into the intricate underground tunnels.

     Next, delve into the heart of ancient Rome with a visit to the Roman Forum. Wander through this bustling archeological marvel, discovering its vibrant past. Ascend Palatine Hill and uncover the legendary roots of Rome, where a she-wolf nurtured Romulus and Remus. Learn about the rise and fall of an empire that declared its rulers gods, through captivating tales of emperors and tyrants.

     This incredible journey through history will leave you with unforgettable memories of Rome's most iconic landmarks and their timeless stories.

    Included / Excluded
    What's Included
    • Fully guided tour, broken into two segments
    • Skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
    • Fast track entry to St. Peter's Basilica (except Wednesdays)
    • Guaranteed Entry Time at the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (€18)
    What's Not Included
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Transfer to the Colosseum
    • Gratuities
    • Personal extras
    Start / End Locations

    Start Location: 19 Via Sebastiano Veniero, Via Sebastiano Veniero, Roma

    Commentary

    Guide : English

    Important Information
    Know Before You Book
    • Due to the route covered and/or transportation used, it is not possible to participate in this tour using a wheelchair, scooter, or other aid. Please contact us to inquire about customized tour options for guests with mobility challenges.
    • Tours taking place on Wednesdays will not include access to St. Peter's, as the Basilica is closed during Papal Audience.
    • Access to St. Peter's Basilica is not possible on Wednesday morning during the weekly papal audience.
    • Prefer to book a private tour instead? Contact us for details.
    Know Before You Go
    • Vatican Dress Code: shoulders and knees must be covered.
    • Due to events and ceremonies associated with the Jubilee 2025, access to St. Peter's Basilica might be restricted. Such closures are beyond our control.
    Cancellation

    Cancellation Policy: custom

    Cancellation Cutoff: 72 hours

    Cancellation Notes: The cancellation policy for this item is as follows: Cancellation with 72+ hours notice: full refund Cancellation with less than 72 hours notice: no refund If you've chosen the Hassle-Free Cancellation policy during checkout, cancel your tour anytime up to midnight of the day before it begins for a full refund, excluding the Trip Protection fee.

    Options

    Adult

    RETAIL PRICE
    Adult (13-64 years) $189.00
    Points of interest
    • Vatican Museums, Vatican City
    • Sistine Chapel, Vatican City, The Vatican
    • Basilica di San Pietro, Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City
    • Coliseo de Roma, Piazza del Colosseo, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy
    • Mont Saint-Michel, France
    • Terms and Conditions

      CROWDING/PARTIAL CLOSINGS: Excessive crowding is to be expected at the Colosseum and Roman Forum during peak season, especially on days surrounding national and/or religious holidays, often leading to increased wait times to pass through security checks despite our Tour Operator priority access reservations. With the introduction of Green Pass requirements in Italy, extended wait times are to be expected. Entrance to the Colosseum is guaranteed.

      LARGE BAGS / WEAPONS/ LUGGAGE will not be allowed inside the monuments. There is no baggage storage area at the Colosseum.

      Tours depart rain or shine unless otherwise specified.

      View complete terms and conditions at www.italiatours.com/terms.

      Additional Information

      Tour is not wheelchair friendly 

      Redemption Information

      Tickets will be held at the box office