Alexander Meddings
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15 Guests Max
2 hrs
Flexible TravelOne of the most striking scenes that greets people as they wind their way through the narrow streets of Rome’s historic centre is the sudden emergence of a pockmarked ancient temple, which occupies one whole side of the area’s few open squares.
This is the Temple of Hadrian, or the Hadrianum as academic folk call it. And as well as being one of Rome’s best-preserved examples of an imperial-era temple, it has quite the story.
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Tom Ripley reads the paper while drinking coffee outside the Temple of Hadrian. Image credit: Netflix
Hadrian — or Publius Aelius Hadrianus Augustus if we go by his full title — was a Roman emperor who ruled between 117 and 138. He was the third emperor of the Nerva-Antonine dynasty, which is best known for blessing Rome with the famous Five Good Emperors who offered a peaceful period of reprieve following the catastrophic rule of Domitian and before the batshit crazy reign of Commodus.
Bust of the emperor Hadrian (left) and his lover, Antinous from the British Museum.
Bust of the emperor Hadrian (left) and his lover, Antinous from the British Museum.
Hadrian may have been a Roman emperor, but he was not born in Rome, or even Italy. He was likely born in Italica, present-day Santiponce, in the province of Seville, Spain, and became emperor following the death of his uncle Trajan, another Spanish-born emperor and the progenitor of a pretty gnarly column near the Roman Forum.
There are several reasons why Hadrian is considered a “good” emperor. For a start, his reign was marked by a period of peace and prosperity, with little military activity (at least anywhere near Rome) and plenty of administrative reform. He focused more on reinforcing the frontiers of the Roman Empire than on conquering new lands, and more on streamlining the administrative abilities of the imperial court than on pandering to the traditional decision-makers in the Senate.
By and large, Hadrian did pursue a policy of peace. Unless you were a rival claimant to the throne at the time of his accession, in which case you could expect a swift and brutal execution, or unless you were unfortunate enough to live in Roman Judea (modern-day Palestine), which he brutally subjugated following a failed revolt against Roman rule.
Hadrian travelled extensively throughout the Roman Empire, visiting every Roman province, including Britannia, Hispania, Greece and Syria. The emperor spent 10 years, more than half of his reign, travelling around his empire. Even at the time, this was considered exceptional, with ancient writers praising Hadrian for having “circled the whole world” (orbem romanum circumit).
If we learned anything about Hadrian from school it’s that he built a great big wall along the ancient Roman border of England and Scotland. Stretches of Hadrian’s Wall survive, serving as stops on coast-to-coast hiking routes across Northern England.
In pop culture, Hadrian’s Wall inspired George R.R. Martin’s wildling-repelling structure which keeps the wildlings out and where the Night’s Watch live out their oath.
In Rome, Hadrian was also responsible for the construction of some of the most iconic landmarks still standing to this day. This includes Castel Sant’Angelo (his dynastic tomb), the Temple of Venus and Roma, the bridges across the River Tiber, and the reconstruction of the Pantheon. In France, his most lasting legacy is the Arena of Nîmes.
Visit Castel Sant'Angelo, the Pantheon and Hadrian's Temple on our Vatican Walking Tour!
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of Hadrian’s character was how he rectified his deep-set love for Greek culture (known in academic circles by the fancy word philhellenism) with a traditional, even excessive, Roman conservatism.
On the one hand, he passionately promoted Greek literature and oratory, attending lectures by the philosopher Epictetus, practising his speaking skills in a purpose-built oratorium recently discovered beneath Rome’s Piazza Venezia, and composing plenty of poetry of his own in both Latin and Greek. He indulged quite openly in homosexual relationships, most famously with the young and dashing Antinous, and grew a beard in line with Greek male fashion trends.
On the other hand, he went further than most of his predecessors in reinforcing traditional Roman values. Hadrian enforced dress standards among Rome’s wealthy classes, obliging senators and knights to wear toga when in public. He imposed strict separation between the sexes in theatres and public baths (something previously blurred), and prevented baths from opening until 2 pm to discourage idleness.
Hadrian was also prone to extremely violent outbursts. One source states that he had his chief architect Apollodorus of Damascus banished and then executed because he was too blunt in his criticism of Hadrian’s architectural knowledge (though many scholars doubt the truth behind this claim). What we know for sure is that he purged a fair few senators and officials upon his ascent to the throne, including Lucius Quietus, a former commander under Trajan, and Avidius Nigrinus, a respected senator.
All of this meant that by the time of his death in 138 CE, public opinion on him was split. The Senate quietly rejoiced. Mostly because it meant the end of civil reforms that had stripped them of their own power; partly because his successor would be free from Hadrian’s philandering Greek tendencies. But many of Rome’s people and newly created bourgeois class saw him as a great civil servant whose reign had been the most peaceful and prosperous in generations.
The Temple of Hadrian was a monumental place of worship which the emperor Antoninus Pius dedicated to his predecessor and adoptive father, Hadrian, in 145 CE, eight years after Hadrian’s death. It was built in Rome’s Campus Martius (Field of Mars), once a vast open plain where the military would train (hence why it was named after the god of war).
Group outside the Temple of Hadrian on our Vatican Walking Tour
From the imperial period onwards, the Campus Martius evolved into an expansive architectural theme park, packed full of temples, public baths, stadiums and columns. Hadrian’s Temple was located not far from the Pantheon and occupied the space between the still-standing Column of Marcus Aurelius and the Alexandrine Baths.
At the time of its construction, the Temple of Hadrian was one of the largest temples in Rome. But not only was it enormous. It was extravagant too. Like all imperial architectural projects, Hadrian’s Temple was garishly colourful: its exterior was covered in marble, the pedestals of its columns were adorned with reliefs representing the many provinces of the Roman Empire, and its intercolumniation was decorated with framed panels, trophies, and weapons to symbolise Rome’s many military victories.
Now for the geeky, architectural part. Hadrian’s temple was peripteral, consisting of a single row of marble Corinthian columns running on each side. Thirteen of these columns ran across the long side of the temple complex while eight ran across the short. Beneath the columns on the remaining peristyle was space for 36 reliefs. By no coincidence, 36 was the exact number of provinces under Hadrian’s control at the time of his death in 138 AD.
Reconstruction of Hadrian's Temple, as exhibited inside the museum. Photo from Wikimedia.
We tend to think of buildings from the ancient world as being white. In fact, most monumental buildings were wildly colourful. Turkish grey-and-white Proconnesian marble was used to build the temple while limestone and giallo antico marble (a yellow marble from Tunisia) were also used for the columns
You might think that it was awfully generous of Antoninus Pius to dedicate a temple to his late predecessor and adoptive father, and indeed it was. But there was more logic behind the decision than just splurging imperial expenditure on a fancy-looking temple. To enter the Temple of Hadrian, worshippers had to pass beneath an arch Antoninus Pius erected for his heirs designate, Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus (whom you might recognise from the Gladiator film franchise) before ascending a 4-m high staircase leading up to the portico from the main façade.
What Antoninus Pius was doing was essentially building himself into history, building a bridge between other good emperors while beautifying the city in the process.
The northeastern side of the temple is almost perfectly preserved and has been subsumed within the Palazzo della Borsa (a seventeenth-century building now housing Rome’s Chamber of Commerce) on the southern flank of Piazza di Pietra.
What remains of the Temple of Hadrian, as seen from Piazza di Pietra
Eleven of the 13 original Proconnesian marble Corinthian columns still stand, measuring 15 metres in height and 1.44 metres in diameter. The cella wall survives too, facing out onto the piazza, pockmarked with the grooves that once held the temple’s marble coating.
Standing at the railings and looking down, you’ll see the ancient street level of the temple precinct. Look up and you can see the cornice, architrave, and design on the frieze running across the top of the structure. These have been restored several times (and not very skilfully since they appear in three parts).
Like many other ancient buildings in Campus Martius, the temple gradually fell into a state of ruin, its building material gradually picked away at, broken away and repurposed. In 1695, what remained was incorporated into a papal palace. The facade of the temple was retained including 11 Corinthian columns that comprised the original external colonnade.
In 1831, the building became the home of the Rome Stock Exchange and is now occupied by the local Chamber of Commerce. Some parts of the cella are still visible inside the modern building, which houses a modest museum dedicated to Hadrian and an exhibition hall.
Not really. Very little of Hadrian’s Temple survives except for its long façade. You can, however, go inside the nineteenth-century palazzo that was built into the remains of the temple, once home to Rome’s Stock Exchange and still the seat of Rome’s Chamber of Commerce.
No. Hadrian was buried in his dynastic mausoleum, which was later converted into the fortress we know as Castel Sant’Angelo, on the banks of the River Tiber.
Castel Sant'Angelo from Ponte Sant'Angelo
The Temple of Hadrian was intended purely for the worship of his genius, a common practice in ancient Rome whereby ‘good’ emperors were deified, given their own priesthood and worshipped as gods.
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Explore the wonders of the Eternal City on our best of Rome walking tour. As you get your bearings around Rome’s cobbled historic centre, your expert storyteller will bring Rome’s most must-see sites to life, including the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona. Take photos, make memories, and most importantly, get the most out of your time in the Italian capital!
Your private guide will share the city’s secrets and narrate its story in a way that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time – from explaining how the stunningly intricate churches and palaces were erected, to how the grand fountains were used to channel water throughout the city.
We will start at Trajan’s Column, which portrays the bloody victory of the emperor during the Dacian wars in Eastern Europe. We’ll then head to the Piazza Venezia, the crossroads between the ancient city and the modern capital and one of the most scenic squares in Italy!
After taking a moment to marvel at the imposing Altar of the Fatherland, we’ll make our way to the iconic Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the fountain, spend a moment soaking in its sounds and scenery (metaphorically, not literally!), and uncover the fascinating stories behind the fountain’s statues and symbols.
After discovering the incredible frescoes within the church of Sant Ignazio, we’ll make our way to the Pantheon where the spectacle of the 2000-year-old dome will blow you away. Marvel at one of the best-preserved buildings of the ancient world, hear the story behind the man who built it, and discover the shocking architectural secret behind how the dome is (or isn’t) supported!
Your private walking tour of Rome finishes at Piazza Navona. The square is situated near some of Rome’s best and most vibrant bars and restaurants and your guide will be happy to recommend where to go.
This tour is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. You can expect this memorable experience to last about two hours, which leaves you with more than enough time to explore the city beyond.
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People made a pilgrimage from all over the world to visit the spiritual home of Catholicism. Unfortunately, this means that getting into the Vatican is by no means easy. With our priority entrance, you’ll be able to skip the hours of waiting in line and walk right into one of the most historically rich places in the world.
Your private tour starts with the Vatican Museums. Don’t be overwhelmed by the never-ending rooms or twisting corridors – we’ll guide you through some of the thousands of rooms without missing their deepest secrets. Our route includes the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Candelabra, The Raphael Rooms and much more. Your friendly expert guide will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
After our trip through the museums, you’ll make your way into the Sistine Chapel, one of the most fabled historical sites in the world. The Sistine Chapel houses the timeless masterpiece crafted by none other than Michelangelo himself. Marvel at the Last Judgement in all its glory.
The pace of this private tour is comfortable and can be adapted to suit you. It also includes all ticket prices for the areas that we’ll be visiting during our trip. Book your spot now to make sure you don’t miss out on the chance to visit one of the most sacred spaces on Earth!
5(132)
Channel your inner-Maximus as you step out onto the Colosseum Arena floor and access this recently reopened area of the world famous amphitheatre. Then, explore the rest of the heart of ancient Rome, with a friendly, expert guide and a small group of like-minded travellers!
Unlike regular tours of the Colosseum, our Colosseum Arena Tour gets you straight inside the ancient amphitheatre and out onto the arena floor through the Gladiator’s Gate. This is the route the gladiators themselves took almost 2,000 years ago. Imagine the moment they left the gates, and were greeted by the cheers and jeers of 50,000 bloodthirsty spectators.
Your expert guide will transport you back in time to the height of the Roman Empire when the Colosseum was constructed. These were times when Rome was ruled by all-powerful emperors (sometimes wise, sometimes wacky), the city was flooded with exotic riches from around the world, and the Colosseum acted as the city’s main stage for showing off the animals and people that Rome had conquered and captured.
After a short 30-minute break, we’ll head off on the next part of the tour…
Next, we’ll climb the Palatine Hill, where the ancient city was founded. The Palatine Hill is a real archaeological wonder, home to settlements from the Iron Age to the 16th century. Gaze upon such sites as the Hut of Romulus, Rome’s legendary founder, and the Imperial Palace, where the emperors in their family engaged in ruling, politicking, and scheming. Get your camera at the ready – you really can’t beat these views!
The final destination on our Colosseum Arena Tour is the Roman Forum. As the beating heart of ancient Rome, the Roman Forum was once a bustling hub of markets, law courts, temples, and more. It was here that Julius Caesar was cremated, where victorious triumphs paraded with the spoils of Roman conquests, here where two disgraced emperors were murdered in 69 AD, and here where Cicero delivered the speeches that shaped western culture for centuries.
When our tour is over, feel free to stay and explore the Roman Forum at your own pace.
Book the complete ancient Roman experience today with our Colosseum Arena Tour!
5(1839)
Most of history’s great artists enjoyed a drink or two; just look at Van Gogh’s Starry Night and tell us that’s how the sky looks. Now you can unleash your inner Leonardo with unlimited wine in our Tipsy Art Class. Join a small group of fellow budding artists to recreate iconic Roman monuments and landscapes that will rival the works of Michelangelo. If he was blind drunk, and not even trying.
Our local arts instructor will guide you through the techniques that made the Great Masters great while you fill yourself with the spirit that inspired them. During the course of 3 fun-filled hours, you and your fellow artists will indulge in unlimited wine and savour platters of snacks while making your masterpiece. The best part? You get to take your canvas home with you–unless you overdo it on the vino, in which case we have plenty of space in the bins)!
Ready to get merry with Michelangelo? Create a one-of-a-kind souvenir and bring a piece of Rome back home.
4.94(1345)
Learn to cook like an Italian in this small group pasta & tiramisù cooking class that gives you mastery over the country’s best-loved classics. Over the course of three-and-a-half-hour fun-filled hours, you’ll enjoy the expert guidance of our fluent professional chef and get hands on recreating real Roman recipes, culminating in a well-deserved dinner in which you feast on what you’ve made.
Situated in our centrally situated air-conditioned cooking school, your interactive class will give you the true sense of an Italian nonna’s loving kitchen. Led by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable English-speaking chef, our cooking masterclass is perfect for kids and adults, beginners and experts.
Savoiardi (ladyfingers) are gently dipped in rich coffee before being layered with dollops of delicately mixed eggs and panna (cream). Finished off with a sprinkle of cocoa, these delicious desserts are set aside to rest in time for an after-dinner energy boost. In fact, the espresso within a tiramisù is what gives it a name that translates literally as “pick me up”!
Rolling up our sleeves, here is where we channel our inner nonna. Mixing, kneading, rolling, and shaping our fresh pasta from scratch will work up a sweat but result in elegant end products. We will then combine these carefully crafted creations with the flavors of the season and locality; be it twangy cacio e pepe or creamy carbonara.
How else to conclude your cooking class than by fully indulging in your culinary creations! Celebrate your accomplishment with family-friendly company, a gorgeous setting, and a selection of red or white wines and soft drinks.
Whether returning a culinary maestro or a self-proclaimed novice, you’ll be sure to take the memories home with you and ruling your dinner parties back home!
5(1852)
Channel your inner-Maximus as you emerge onto the Colosseum arena floor, enjoying exclusive access to this newly reopened section of the world most famous amphitheatre. Don’t settle for half-measures on your Roman holiday. Seize the moment—carpe diem—and treat yourself to an immersive tour of ancient Rome with a private expert guide!
Unlike most other tours, this private tour gets you straight inside the Colosseum and out onto the arena floor through the Gladiator’s Gate. This is the route Rome’s gladiators took almost 2,000 years ago. Imagine the scene of them being greeted by the cheers and jeers of 50,000 spectators.
Your expert private guide will transport you back in time to the height of the Roman Empire when Nero’s Golden Palace fell and the Colosseum was constructed in its place. These were times when Rome was ruled by all-powerful emperors (sometimes wise, sometimes wacky), the city was flooded with exotic riches from around the world, and the Colosseum acted as the city’s main stage for showing off the animals and people that Rome had conquered and captured.
Next, we’ll climb the Palatine Hill, where Romulus founded the city. The Palatine Hill is a real archaeological wonder, home to settlements from the Iron Age to the 16th century. Gaze upon such sites as the Hut of Romulus, the houses of Augustus and Livia, and the Imperial Palace, where the emperors in their family engaged in ruling, politicking, and scheming.
The final destination on your private Colosseum arena tour is the Roman Forum. As the beating heart of ancient Rome, the Roman Forum was once a bustling hub of markets, law courts, temples, and more. It was here that Julius Caesar was cremated, here where two disgraced emperors were murdered in 69 AD, and here where Cicero delivered the speeches that shaped western culture for centuries.
At the end of your private tour, feel free to stay and explore the Forum at your own pace.
4.96(1256)
Rome may be the world’s most beautiful city. But after dark a more sinister side emerges. Lurking around every corner are the shades of popes, emperors, and artists: their lives claimed by two-thousand years of tragedy and conspiracy. Our Private Ghost Tour of Rome is not for the faint hearted — you’ll hear the ghastly tales of beheadings and murder that will haunt you forever.
Your Ghost Tour of Rome starts at Campo de’ Fiori, a square, where you’ll be regaled with the tale of Giordano Bruno. Born in the 16th century, Bruno was one of Rome’s greatest minds, but his discoveries led to him angering the Church. After learning about his grisly fate, you’ll begin exploring the city.
Venture through medieval backstreets with your storyteller guide; visit an ancient church adorned with skulls; and step inside the home to a mysterious order of monks. Discover the childhood home of one of Rome’s most infamous executioners; see the site of one of Rome’s most infamous prisons; and pass by a poisonous perfumery where the cosmetics killed.
Your private tour ends at the imposing Castel Sant’Angelo, where your guide will reveal the horror of Rome’s most disturbing executions and leave you with an image that will chill you to your bones.
5(435)
Master the art of authentic Italian cooking through this private cooking class! The generational tradition of extended mealtimes will be stretched across three-and-a-half fun-filled hours, culminating in a well-deserved dinner in which you feast on your recipes.
Your private class will give you the true sense of an Italian nonna’s loving kitchen. Led by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable English-speaking chef, our centrally situated cooking masterclass is perfect for kids and adults; beginners and experts!
Savoiardi (ladyfingers) are gently dipped in rich coffee before being layered with dollops of delicately mixed eggs and panna (cream). Finished off with a sprinkle of cocoa, these delicious desserts are set aside to rest in time for an after-dinner energy boost. In fact, the espresso within a tiramisù is what gives it a name that translates literally as “pick me up”!
Roll up your sleeves and get ready to knead, roll, and shape your fresh pasta from scratch. After running your pasta dough through a traditional pasta machine, you’ll get to combine your carefully crafted creations with the flavors of the season and locality; be it twangy cacio e pepe, creamy carbonara, or saucy amatriciana.
How else to conclude your cooking class than by indulging yourself in your culinary creations! Celebrate your accomplishment with family-friendly company, a gorgeous setting, and a selection of red or white wines and soft drinks.
Whether returning a culinary maestro or a self-proclaimed novice, you’ll be sure to take the memories home with you and ruling your dinner parties back home!
5(849).webp&w=3840&q=75)
The best way to understand Rome is to take a look beneath it. Our Rome Catacombs Tour is perfect for travellers who want to get off the beaten track, unearth underground passageways, and discover the secrets of the largest catacombs in Rome.
Prepare to discover the deeper, darker, and more mysterious parts of Roman history with a small group of like-minded adventurers. By digging downwards into the ancient labyrinth of tunnels, we’ll uncover all the secrets and dark tales of the catacombs of Domitilla.
Your friendly expert guide will meet you outside and give you a quick overview of the tour before we make our descent. With our close guidance, you’ll have the chance to explore and discover ancient passageways in the largest, most famous catacombs in Rome. These tunnels are sacred and an integral part of the Christian and Roman faiths. Learn how ancient Christian rites and rituals were held underneath the bustling city streets.
These tunnels were not only a place of ritual, but are still a sacred place of rest for more than 150,000 bodies. These catacombs and the bodies they hold stretch for almost 20 km underground, some of which is yet to be seen by the public eye.
With a maximum of ten travellers per tour group, you’ll have the opportunity to ask plenty of questions. The price of the tour includes the tickets. If you’d like to join us on our Rome Catacombs Tour of the darkest, largest catacombs in Rome, book your spot now to make sure you don’t miss out!
5(235)
Relax the right way after a long day of sightseeing with our Spritz and Spaghetti Class. This fun-filled class teaches you all the know-how you need to mix traditional Italian cocktails and perfect the art of making fresh pasta. It’s the only experience of its kind in Rome – a perfect blend of food, friends, and tipsy fun.
So come join us and see what all the fuss is about!
We’ll welcome your private party with a mixology demo of how to make Italy’s best-loved drink: Aperol Spritz. You’ll then get started on your hands-on pasta-making lesson led by a fun-loving, fluent professional chef. But that’s not all! We’ll also be making Hugo Spritz and satisfying your sweet tooth with a glass of Limoncello.
Your professional chef will guide you every step of the way – from kneading the dough to running it through a traditional pasta machine. You’ll also be making a creamy carbonara sauce to coat your fresh pasta (vegetarians can try out another Roman classic of cacio e pepe). At the end of the class, you’ll dine on what you’ve made with a selection of wine or soft drinks!
5(347)
Feed your curiosity while pleasing your palate on this indulgent Rome Food Tour! This fun (and filling) food tour gives you and a small group of others insider access to Rome’s best delicatessens, pizzerias and restaurants as well as Rome’s tastiest traditional food the locals keep to themselves.
Our Rome food tour takes place in Trastevere, Rome’s most traditional medieval neighbourhood. The area is renowned for its buzzing nightlife and fantastic eateries with delightful aromas spilling out of them. However, it’s also known to have its fair share of tourists traps! Our team of expert foodies invite you, and your tastebuds, to try some of the finest flavours in the city! Vacations are too short to eat bad food, right?
During the experience, we will try at least 10 different tastings together with a selection of local wines. However, this experience is more than just simply trying different local foods while sipping on red wine. This is a journey inside the Roman kitchen—discovering the delicacies, the diet and the cultural dos and don’ts.
Not only will you experience the mouthwatering flavours of Rome, but you’ll also discover the process, meet the makers, and truly understand why Italian cuisine is considered the best in the world. So book your spot on our Rome Food Tour today and get ready for a true taste of the capital!
Please note: the places that we visit and the food that we try depends on the season.
This is a sustainable tour, meaning part of its profits goes towards reforestation and other sustainable projects. We also ask all of our guests to bring a reusable water bottle to refill at one of the water fountains along our route to stay hydrated and help us reduce waste.
**Unfortunately, we can’t accommodate a gluten-free or vegan diet but we hope to be able to in the future. While we can cater to vegetarians, we ask that you let us know about dietary requirements in advance so we can best suit your needs.**
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Join us on a journey through Roman history on our immersive Rome by Night Walking Tour. Your expert guide will share the city’s secrets, history, and fascinating tales—from antiquity through to the modern day, and at a pace to suit you.
Our tour starts in Rome’s most picturesque square, Piazza Navona, where the ancient Romans used to watch athletic contests (agones). Today’s piazza sits above the ancient stadium and boasts Gian Lorenzo Bernini‘s stunning Fountain of the Four Rivers as its centrepiece.
A five-minute walk from Piazza Navona takes us to the world-famous Pantheon. Constructed more than two-thousand years ago by the eccentric emperor Hadrian, the Pantheon was consecrated as a monument to all the pagan gods (pan theos, in Greek meaning all the gods). This second-century temple is one of the best-preserved monuments in the Roman Empire and its unreinforced concrete dome still perplexes architects.
Our next stop is the iconic Trevi Fountain. Immortalised by Anita Ekberg wading through its water in Federico Fellini’s iconic film La Dolce Vita, the Trevi Fountain one of the most romantic spots in the Eternal City. Snap your photos of the monument in the moonlight, listen to your guide decipher its symbols, and toss a coin over your shoulder to guarantee your return to Rome.
We emerge from Rome’s winding backstreets onto Piazza Venezia. Stretching from the foot of the Capitoline Hill, against the backdrop of the Altar of the Fatherland, Piazza Venezia is Rome’s most recognisable square, and a repository of history involving figures from Napoleon to Mussolini.
Your guide will lead you down the Via dei Fori Imperiali, the boulevard that cuts through ancient Rome, past Trajan’s Column and alongside the forums of Trajan, Augustus and Nerva. Your guide will feed your curiosity and nourish you with knowledge about ancient Rome and its empire as you make your way towards the most famous monument of all: the Colosseum.
The Colosseum is one of the most awe-inspiring attractions that has survived from antiquity. As a colossal feat of architecture and engineering, its form has been replicated throughout the ages, manifested in stadiums and sports venues around the world. But while its form is familiar to us, the spectacles it accommodated are entirely alien, and remind us of the violent nature of Roman culture.
Group sizes are 15 people maximum.
Book your spot now to avoid missing out!
5(567)
Rome may well be the world’s most beautiful city, but after dark a more sinister side emerges. The ghosts of popes, emperors, and artists lurk on every corner, their lives claimed by tragedy and conspiracy across more than 2,000 years of history. Our Rome Ghost Tour is not for the faint hearted — you’ll hear the ghastly tales of beheadings and murder that are sure to keep you up late at night.
Your Rome Ghost Tour starts at Campo de’ Fiori, a central square, where you’ll be treated to the tale of Giordano Bruno, one of Rome’s greatest minds who got on the wrong side of the church. After learning about his grisly end, you’ll begin to explore the city. Venture through medieval backstreets; visit an ancient church adorned with skulls; and step inside the home to a mysterious order of monks. Discover the childhood home of one of Rome’s most infamous executioners; see the site of one of Rome’s most infamous prisons; and pass by a poisonous perfumery where cosmetics killed.
Your tour ends at the imposing Castel Sant’Angelo, where your guide will reveal the horror of Rome’s most disturbing executions. If you’re (un)lucky, you might even encounter a ghost or two.
No matter what, you’ll never see Rome the same way again.
5(910)
Join our expert guide in an adventure through ancient Rome. No Rome trip would be complete without exploring the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum — the three most immersive sites of the world’s mightiest ancient empire. So what can you expect from our Colosseum guided tour?
Our most complete three-hour tour of ancient Rome starts at the Colosseum, which you’ll step straight inside with your timed entry tickets. Your expert guide will help you uncover the mysteries and histories of the Colosseum and follow in the footsteps of the ancients. Any question you can think of, they’ve got the answer – so ask away!
What are the holes that pockmark the ancient amphitheatre? Why is one side shorter than the other? And how much do we really know about the gladiators—and even emperors—who battled on the arena sands? (We promise the answers will surprise you!)
After exploring the Colosseum, we’ll climb the Palatine Hill to discover the birthplace of the ancient city. Here, your storyteller guide will recount the mythical foundation of Rome, the legend of Romulus and Remus, and the stories of the emperors who resided on the Palatine, like Augustus, Tiberius, and Caligula. Next, we’ll explore the ruins of some of the most luxurious palaces in Roman history, the emperor’s residences on the Palatine Hill, from which we get our word ‘palace.’
Last but not least, we’ll head into the Roman Forum, the heart of the ancient city. Discover what life was really like for everyday Romans as we explore the social, religious, and political hub of the Roman Empire. Marvel at the remains of towering temples, triumphal arches, sprawling basilicas, and the ancient senate house as you walk on the very same stones that the likes of Caesar and Cicero once did.
This is one of our most popular tours, so be sure to book your slot ASAP!
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Did someone say Spritz? Discover the flavours of Rome on our Spritz and Spaghetti Class. Our centrally located kitchen is where you’ll learn everything you need to mix traditional Italian cocktails, and perfect the art of making fresh pasta. This is the only cooking class of its kind in Rome – a perfect blend of food, friends, and tipsy fun. So come join us and see what all the fuss is about!
Our team will welcome you and your small, intimate group with a mixology demo making Italy’s best-loved drink: Aperol Spritz. You’ll then get started on your hands-on pasta-making lesson led by a fun-loving, fluent professional chef, during which we’ll also be making two other drink.
Your professional chef will guide you every step of the way – from kneading the dough to cutting the pasta. You’ll also be making a creamy carbonara sauce to coat your fresh pasta (vegetarians can try out another Roman classic of cacio e pepe). Travelling is all about meeting new people. At the end of this cooking class, you’ll dine on what you’ve made in the fun, tipsy company of your new foodie friends.
Book now and start making memories.
5(3841)
One of the best ways to meet people in a new city is to grab a drink together, and few city serve up more iconic drinks than Rome. Whether you’re travelling solo or with a group, for a long vacation or a short city break – our Rome Tipsy Tour is for you!
This unique nightlife experience combines all our favourite elements of travel: discovering new places, being immersed in different cultures, meeting fun people, and trying out a range of delicious drinks! It’s not a run-of-the-mill bar crawl. It’s a sociable tour that gives you a real taste of with Rome’s sights, stories, and signature drinks in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with fun, local hosts. We also welcome sober travellers who want to join for a social experience but who want to forgo a hangover, so we’ll have non-alcoholic options available as well!
You’ll meet your guide and group at Piazza Madonna dei Monti, where we’ll break the ice with a warm Italian welcome – aka, a refreshing glass of local wine. After saying cheers—salute—we’ll head into Monti, an uber-trendy district filled with quirky bars and cobblestoned streets, and plenty to unpack. In ancient Rome, Monti was known as a suburra – the red-light district of Rome where prostitutes plied their trade and gangsters once roamed. As we wander through the cobblestone streets your guide will tell you scandalous stories of sex and bloodshed that you won’t hear on your typical walking tour.
After so much scandal, you’ll surely need a drink. So at our first stop on the Rome Tipsy Tour you’ll get an extra stiff one. The spotlight will be on Carpano Classico a venerable vermouth with a curious story! Unravel the history of the man who made it – Antonio Benedetto Carpano – back in 1786 whilst sharing some sips with your newfound friends.
We’ll keep the night going with some more saucy stories before trying a classic Italian Spritz. Indulge in the bitter flavours of Aperol or Campari Spritz while enjoying dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing—apart from getting tipsy of course!
Our final stop is Rome’s most iconic road, the Via dei Fori Imperiali, leading down to the Colosseum. The views of the ancient city are best enjoyed after dark with an ice-cold Limoncello – trust us. Sip away as your guide tells shocking stories of the power-hungry Roman emperors who once ruled the known world.
At 11 p.m., the Tipsy Tour officially ends, but the night out begins! We will continue drinking with our new friends at some of Rome’s most popular bars!
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience. We promise to make your night in Rome one you’ll never forget! Skip a boring walking tour, and come get tipsy with us.
Book your spot now!
4.94(2344)
Home to Rome’s most impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings and sculpture, the Borghese Gallery is a must-visit for all art lovers. The 17th-century villa is an artwork in itself, furnished with frescoes by the Florentine-trained artist Ludovico Cigoli and situated in the midst of a vast landscaped garden. But the artworks it contains are unrivalled in Rome, featuring sculptures and paintings by the likes of Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Canova.
Tickets to the Borghese Gallery are had to find – and for good reason. Everyone wants to step inside, but few get the chance. Book your tour of the Borghese Gallery today and you can be among the lucky few. Simply turn up on time, and we’ll take care of the rest.
After meeting the rest of the tour group in the lush surroundings of Villa Borghese park, you and your expert art-historian guide will make your way into the gallery. This 17th-century villa is home to countless works of priceless art and is named after a passionate and wealthy cardinal, Scipione Borghese.
As an art enthusiast and nephew to the Pope himself, Borghese was known for going above and beyond to make sure he could own and display the masterpieces that caught his eye. You’ll have the chance to learn everything there is to know about the Cardinal, from how he hosted extravagant parties to the infamous threats he made to artists worldwide in an attempt to take their art for his own.
Unlike some of the other museums in Rome, the Borghese Gallery only allows a certain number of visitors at a time. Not only does that make for a more exclusive experience, but it also gives you the peace and quiet you need to really absorb the sheer beauty of its art.
Bernini’s sculpture of Apollo and Daphne and Raphael’s sensual depiction of La Fornarina are just a few of the masterpieces you’ll have the honour of seeing during this leisurely, private tour.
Book your spot now to avoid disappointment, skip the lines, and immerse in Roman history with Carpe Diem.
5(270)
Explore the wonders of the Eternal City on our Wonders of Rome Walking Tour! As you get your bearings around Rome’s cobbled historic centre, your expert storyteller will bring Rome’s most must-see sites to life, including the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona. Take photos, make memories, and most importantly, get the most out of your time in the Italian capital!
Your guide will share the city’s secrets and narrate its story in a way that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time – from explaining how the stunningly intricate churches and palaces were erected, to how the grand fountains were used to channel water throughout the city.
We will start at Trajan’s Column, which portrays the bloody victory of the emperor during the Dacian wars in Eastern Europe. We’ll then head to the Piazza Venezia, the crossroads between the ancient city and the modern capital and one of the most scenic squares in Italy!
After taking a moment to marvel at the imposing Altar of the Fatherland, we’ll make our way to the iconic Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the fountain, spend a moment soaking in its sounds and scenery (metaphorically, not literally!), and uncover the fascinating stories behind the fountain’s statues and symbols.
We’ll then make our way to the Pantheon where the spectacle of the 2000-year-old dome will blow you away. Marvel at one of the best-preserved buildings of the ancient world, hear the story behind the man who built it, and discover the shocking architectural secret behind how the dome is (or isn’t) supported!
The square is situated near some of Rome’s best and most vibrant bars and restaurants and your guide will be happy to recommend where to go.
Our Rome Walking Tour is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. You can expect this memorable experience to last about two hours, which leaves you with more than enough time to explore the city beyond. Make sure you don’t miss out.
Secure your spot today!
4.97(2485)
Take your Roman adventure to the next level with our semi-private tour of the Ancient City! With a small group of just 6 people, you’ll enjoy more personal attention from your guide as you explore the legendary Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. This means more chances to ask questions, deeper dives into history, and the opportunity to truly engage with both your guide and your fellow explorers.
What are the holes that pockmark the ancient amphitheatre? Why is one side shorter than the other? And how much do we really know about the gladiators—and even emperors—who battled on the arena sands? (We promise the answers will surprise you!)
After exploring the Colosseum, we’ll climb the Palatine Hill to discover the birthplace of the ancient city. Here, your storyteller guide will recount the mythical foundation of Rome, the legend of Romulus and Remus, and the stories of the emperors who resided on the Palatine, like Augustus, Tiberius, and Caligula. Next, we’ll explore the ruins of some of the most luxurious palaces in Roman history, the emperor’s residences on the Palatine Hill, from which we get our word ‘palace.’
Last but not least, we’ll head into the Roman Forum, the heart of the ancient city. Discover what life was really like for everyday Romans as we explore the social, religious, and political hub of the Roman Empire. Marvel at the remains of towering temples, triumphal arches, sprawling basilicas, and the ancient senate house as you walk on the very same stones that the likes of Caesar and Cicero once did.
Prepare for a unique, unforgettable journey through Rome’s most famous landmarks with a small, friendly group that lets you explore at your own pace.
5(452)