The Ultimate Guide to Ancient Rome: Top 5 Sites and Tours

Oct 21, 2024By Tim Cunnington

TC

Exploring the Colosseum

The Colosseum is a must-see in Rome. It is one of the most iconic landmarks. Built in 70-80 AD, it hosted gladiator battles. Today, you can take guided tours to learn about its history.

Visitors can explore the arena floor and underground chambers. These tours offer a glimpse into the lives of ancient gladiators. Booking in advance is recommended to avoid long queues.

colosseum tour

Small Group Tour: Colosseum & Roman Forum with Arena Floor Access

Step into ancient history with the Viator Small Group Tour: Colosseum & Roman Forum with Arena Floor Access!

Skip the lines and walk in the footsteps of gladiators as you access the Colosseum’s Arena Floor, a vantage point reserved for few.

Explore the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum, once the heart of Roman public life, with an expert guide sharing captivating stories of emperors, battles, and daily life in ancient Rome.

This small-group tour offers an intimate, immersive experience, perfect for history lovers seeking a deeper connection to Rome’s incredible past!

Walking Through the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the center of public life in ancient Rome. It housed important government buildings and temples. Walking through the ruins, you can almost feel the history beneath your feet.

Guided tours provide detailed insights into the Forum's significance. You will see the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and more. Each structure tells a story of Rome's past.

Ruins of Roman Forum in autumn, Rome, Italy
Ruins of Roman Forum in autumn

Visiting the Pantheon

The Pantheon is another remarkable site. It was built as a temple for all Roman gods. The building is known for its impressive dome and oculus.

Today, the Pantheon serves as a church. It is free to enter, but guided tours can enrich your experience. These tours explain the architectural marvels and historical context.

Exploring Palatine Hill

Palatine Hill is one of the seven hills of Rome. According to legend, it is where Romulus founded the city. The hill offers stunning views of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus.

Visitors can explore the ruins of imperial palaces. Guided tours often include detailed stories of ancient Roman emperors. The Farnese Gardens are also a highlight of this area.

Farnese Gardens in the Domus Tiberiana, Palatine
Farnese Gardens in the Domus Tiberiana, Palatine

Discovering the Catacombs

The Catacombs of Rome are underground burial sites. They date back to the early Christian period. These tunnels stretch for miles and contain thousands of tombs.

Guided tours are essential to navigate the labyrinthine passages. They also provide historical context and fascinating stories. The Catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano are among the most visited.

Catacomb of San Callisto
Catacomb of San Callisto

Booking Your Tours

Booking tours in advance is crucial. It ensures you get the best experience and avoid long waits. Many tours offer skip-the-line tickets, which save time.

Look for tours with knowledgeable guides. They can provide deeper insights and answer your questions. Many tours also offer audio guides in multiple languages.

Conclusion

Ancient Rome is filled with historical sites. Each location offers a unique glimpse into the past. From the Colosseum to the Catacombs, there is much to explore.

Plan your visit carefully. Book guided tours to make the most of your trip. With the right preparation, your journey through ancient Rome will be unforgettable.

Detail of the staircase and fountain leading to the Farnese gardens on top of the Palatine hill in Rome
Detail of the staircase and fountain leading to the Farnese gardens on top of the Palatine hill in Rome