Last Updated on October 18, 2025 by Tori Pines
If you’re planning a trip to Italy’s capital, you’re probably wondering how to make the most of your time, and honestly, booking a few of the best tours in Rome is the secret! Between the ancient ruins, world-famous art, and all that pasta, it can be overwhelming trying to fit it all in on your own.
That’s where guided tours come in, they take the stress out of planning and make sure you don’t miss the hidden details that bring Rome’s history to life. From early-access Vatican visits to underground Colosseum tours, these experiences will give you a deeper (and way more fun!) look at the Eternal City.
There is so much beauty to see around the city, but it’s so much better if you understand what you are looking at and learn some of the history behind it. You’ll appreciate it all that much more!
Whether it’s your first trip to Rome or your fifth, here are the best tours in Rome that are absolutely worth booking.

The Best Tours in Rome Map




The Best Tours in Rome: Top Sights
These top sights in Rome are all must-sees on your first visit to Italy. But you will get SO much more out of your visit with a guided tour. Here’s my favorite tours in Rome for you to book!
1. Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour
We have to start off with the most famous sight, the Colosseum. It’s the number one thing you must see on your first trip to Rome for obvious reasons! Visiting this World Wonder on your own is totally possible, and the cheaper option, but does not do it justice. When visiting the Colosseum it is an absolute must to have a local giving you a guided tour.
You will have no idea what you are looking at during your visit if you don’t have a tour guide, so it will be pretty boring. Book the tour and learn all of the interesting facts there are to learn about this Wonder of the World!
I also highly recommend you book the tour that includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. This is the area located right outside the Colosseum, where the Romans lived their everyday lives all those years ago. The guide will walk you through this massive outdoor museum and you’ll get to learn all about what life was like back in the time of the Romans!
2. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour
By far, my favorite museum in all of Italy is the Vatican Museum. There are such a huge variety of pieces located here with so much history and a crazy amount of super famous works by people like Leonardo DaVinci and Raphael, to name a few.
I’m not usually a big museum person, but this one was outstanding. You must have some sort of guide for this to learn and appreciate all you see. I recommend this guided tour to get the most out of your time here (and add on the Basilica tour for the ultimate experience!) But a cheaper option would be regular tickets and the free Rick Steves audio guide, more on that below!
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3. Pantheon Timeless Marvel Guided Tour with Entry Ticket
Without a doubt, my favorite building in all of Italy is the Pantheon. I had no idea how much I would love it until I saw it in person, and it just took my breath away. I even got up super early one morning just to have some time alone with it in the Piazza.
While this sight is fairly small compared to some of the others on this list of the best tours in Rome, it holds some incredible history, plus is the final resting place for some very famous people!!
This Pantheon guided tour is a must to learn all you can about one of the most interesting and beautiful places in the city. Just be sure to wear something that covers your shoulders and knees, since this is actually a church! For more tips on what to wear in Italy, be sure to read my guide.
4. Borghese Gallery Guided Tour with priority entrance
Another top sight in Rome that you should consider booking a tour for is the Borghese Gallery. This gallery is located in the Borghese Gardens (another must-visit spot in Rome) and is home to works by Bernini, Raphael and so many more famous artists.
This tour provides two hours of guided information seeing amazing masterpieces and entering with skip-the-ticket-line entrance tickets. After the tour, explore the gardens and rent a row boat to go for a ride on the pond.
5. Rick Steves Free Audio Guides
While I highly recommend booking guided tours for as many of Rome’s top sights as possible, I know not everyone’s budget, or itinerary (I recommend at least 3 days in Rome), allows for a guided tour of everything. So pick a few guided tours to book, and then use Rick Steves’ free audio tours for the rest of the top sights you visit! It’s one of my favorite insider tips for visiting Italy.
These tours are completely free and full of wonderful information. Be sure to download them to your phone in advance, and bring headphones with you to listen. I also highly recommend this battery pack to carry around each day so you can recharge your phone for all-day use! I have many more important recommendations for things to pack for Italy in my guide.



The Best Tours in Rome: City Tours
In addition to the top sights, there’s endless other places to see and learn about throughout Rome. Places like the Trevi Fountain, Campo di Fiori, Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, Torre Argentina and so many more! But the best way to make sure you see it all, and learn all about the history and modern day facts, is by guided tour. There’s several ways to do it, so here’s my top recommendations for tours in Rome to see the whole city.
6. Golf Cart Tour with Artisanal Gelato Tasting
I’m kicking myself for not having been on a golf cart tour of Rome yet. I cannot tell you how many friends of mine have absolutely raved about the golf cart tour they took. It’s the perfect way to see everything there is to see in Rome without all the exhausting walking around on the cobblestones.
Plus they are SUPER small groups, so you get so much of the tour guide to yourselves. You will learn so much and can ask endless questions. This is the best bang for your buck in my opinion because you can see the most in the shortest amount of time. I will be booking this exact tour for my next visit to Rome.
7. City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus with Audioguide
I’m a huge fan of hop-on-hop-off buses in any city, and with so much to see in Rome, this makes for a perfect option. Not only do you get to see so many of the best sights, but you also get commentary along the way, teaching you all about what you see. And the biggest plus is it doubles as transportation throughout the city. So if you buy a multi-day pass you can use it as a way to get around throughout your entire stay in Rome. Since the city is so big, this is a huge perk of this tour.
8. Small-Group Guided Day or Night Walking Tour
For the classic city tour experience, pick a guided walking tour. This particular tour offers both day and night time options which is great because it’s flexible for any schedule. You’ll get to spend some time with a local of Rome who knows the city inside and out and will teach you so many interesting facts that you wouldn’t get to learn anywhere else. Plus, you have that one-on-one time to ask them questions and learn about the things you wonder as you walk around this beautiful city. They’re especially lovely during nice weather, like during Springtime in Rome.
9. Paranormal Night Walking Tour & Secret Backstreets
Looking for something a bit more unique? If you like ghost tours (or think you might) then I recommend this paranormal night walking tour of Rome. It’s a super spooky way to see the city and learn a different part of the history of Rome. I haven’t been on this tour, but I took one in Charleston that was lots of fun! It’s not for everyone, but is a unique option for something different, and a great thing to do in Rome at night.
10. Rick Steves Free Audio Guide
I mentioned Rick Steves Audio tours earlier, but I wanted to point out that he also has free tours around the city as well. These are great ways to learn more about specific neighborhoods of Rome like trust every and the Jewish ghetto, and are completely free. I highly recommend you book one of the other city tours and then use these as add-ons to learn even more about specific areas.
Be sure to download them to your phone in advance, and bring headphones with you to listen. I also highly recommend this battery pack to carry around each day so you can recharge your phone for all-day use!



The Best Tours in Rome: Enjoy the Food
I would be remiss if I didn’t include an entire section about food in my best tours in Rome article. After all, eating loads of Italian food is probably a big reason why you came here to begin with, at least it was for me! There are many ways to appreciate Roman food culture while you’re here including Food Tours, cooking classes and wine tastings. I can’t recommend these enough because Rome really knows how to do food right!
11. Guided Food Walking Tour with Wine in Trastevere
The food tour we took in Trastevere was one of the best parts of a two week trip to Italy! We had so much fun trying the different local street foods and learning about food culture. You get to learn about the history of Roman food and how it is enjoyed today. We had the chance to try things like suppli, Trappezino, street pizza and more! And let me tell you it was all outstanding. It was truly some of the best food we had in Rome because we were guided by a local who knew the best spots in town.
Plus you get to ask them questions and find out some of the best local spots to eat for the rest of your stay in Rome. So I recommend booking this for your first day of your Rome itinerary!
12. Tiramisu and Pasta Cooking Class near the Colosseum
I cannot say enough incredible things about the pasta and Tiramisu cooking class that we took when we were in Italy. It was actually some of the best food we had the entire time we were there, and we made it ourselves! Not only is the experience so much fun and you eat so much food, you also get to take these authentic Italian recipes home with you to make for years to come. It’s the best souvenir you can buy yourself in Italy. There are many different types of cooking classes to take but I recommend pasta as my number one choice, you can’t go wrong with freshly made pasta.
13. Pizza & Tiramisu Class with Free Flowing Fine Wine
Another cooking class option would be to make homemade pizza. While I do recommend pasta classes first, pizza is a close second for obvious reasons. You’ll learn how to make the dough, the sauce and lots of authentically Italian tips about the toppings. They’re not always the same as what you’d expect to see in the US.
This particular cooking class is an especially good choice for tours in Rome because it includes “free-flowing fine wine”, and you can never go wrong with that. It’s a super fun experience, you get to hang out with a handful of other tourists and meet people from all over the world, which is an added plus. I can’t explain to you how much fun cooking classes really are in Italy.
14. Trastevere Wine Tasting with Food Pairing and Gelato
I love to recommend taking a wine tasting while in Italy so it obviously is on my list of the best tours in Rome. I love this particular tour because it’s located right inside the city in the beautiful neighborhood of Trastevere. This means it’s super easy to get to and they will bring the wines in from the surrounding vineyards for you to taste.
This particular class comes with a food pairing and gelato which is just an added bonus to the delicious ones you’ll get to try. And if you’re anything like us, wine back home will never taste the same after having the incredible local wines made in Italy. We actually didn’t even like red wine until our first trip to Italy and now it’s all we drink.
15. Half-Day Frascati Wine Tour with Farmhouse Lunch
If you’re willing to take the time to venture a little bit out of the city, I highly recommend this half day wine tour. It includes transportation, loads of local wine and a delicious lunch at a farmhouse in the countryside. This is the ultimate experience for a wine tasting in Italy, as you’ll be in the rolling hills and able to relax after leaving the busy city.


The Best Tours in Rome: Just Outside the City
There are several incredible sites located outside of Rome’s City Center. And while they take a few extra minutes to get to, these guided tours make it super easy to see some lesser visited spots. Get away from the major crowds at these locations.
16. Appian Way & Aqueducts E-Bike Tour (Catacombs & Food)
One of the most relaxing things to do in Rome is to visit the Appian Way. The best way is to see it via e-bike since it’s a long road to travel down. There’s so much history along this road, as it is why the phrase “all roads lead to Rome” exists to this day! It was a crucial road for military and trading and has so much history to it.
This tour is such a fun way to get out of the city a bit, and learn even more amazing things about Rome. Plus, you get a bit of exercise and fresh air riding the e-bikes around. Opt for the catacombs and lunch option for the ultimate experience!
17. Capuchin Crypts and Catacombs Tour with Transfers
Get ready for a spine-tingling adventure beneath the Eternal City. On this tour in Rome, you’ll travel by coach to three hidden wonders: the eerie Capuchin Crypt (where the bones of nearly 4,000 monks form macabre art), the ancient Roman catacombs where early Christians worshipped in secret, and the tucked-away Basilica of San Martino ai Monti, with its subterranean chambers and centuries-old relics.
With an expert guide bringing the history to life, this isn’t your average “see-the-sights” tour, this is one of the best tours in Rome for peeling back the city’s surface and exploring what lies beneath.
18. Tickets and a guided tour of the Olympic Stadium in Rome
Swap ancient ruins for roaring cheers with a visit to the Olympic Stadium. With your skip-the-line ticket and expert guide, you’ll walk the same path as players, through locker rooms, onto the pitch, and down the tunnels. Along the way, you’ll explore the stadium’s political and architectural roots (hello, Mussolini Obelisk and Fascist-era design), peek into the lore of Rome’s two rival clubs (Roma vs. Lazio), and soak up the vibe of Foro Italico’s bold, monumental setting.
If you’ve exhausted ruins and churches, this is one of the best tours in Rome to inject a fresh kind of energy into your itinerary.
19. Valmontone: MagicLand Amusement Park Entry Ticket
Escape the cobblestone streets of Rome and dive into a world of thrills at Rainbow MagicLand in Valmontone. Just a short ride from the city, this amusement park boasts over 39 attractions, including heart-pounding roller coasters, interactive 4D experiences, and Europe’s largest planetarium.
Whether you’re a daredevil seeking the adrenaline rush of the Shock Coaster or a family looking to enjoy live shows and themed areas, there’s something for everyone. With skip-the-line entry, you can maximize your fun without the wait. But it’s important to note, this does not include transportation, so you’ll need to secure that separately.



The Best Tours in Rome: Day Trips from Rome
Rome is incredible, but some of Italy’s most magical spots are just a short trip away! Booking a day tour from Rome is the perfect way to see charming towns, ancient ruins, and breathtaking landscapes without the stress of planning transport or logistics.
From wandering the romantic streets of Florence, to exploring the ruins of Pompeii, or tasting wines in the rolling hills of Tuscany, these tours make it easy to experience more of Italy in a single day. Whether you’re into history, food, or scenery, there’s a day trip from Rome that’s perfect for you!
20. Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, and Sorrento Day Trip
Escape the hustle of Rome and embark on a full-day adventure to some of Italy’s most iconic destinations. Begin with a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Pompeii, where an expert archaeologist will bring the city’s history to life.
Afterward, enjoy a scenic drive along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, stopping in the picturesque town of Sorrento. Here, you’ll have free time to explore charming streets, shop for local crafts, and savor the coastal beauty. The day concludes with a delightful limoncello tasting, offering a sweet taste of the region’s famed citrus liqueur. With comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers everything from history and culture, to relaxation and natural beauty.
I’m a huge fan of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and think it’s a must see for every first-time visitor to Italy.
21. Capri Island Day Trip
For another relaxing option to get out of busy Rome for a day, immerse yourself in the charm of Capri Island. This leisurely day trip allows you to explore the island’s famous alleys, the Piazzetta, and countless other attractions at your own pace. Begin your journey with a scenic bus ride through the Roman countryside and Castelli Romani, heading south to Naples. From there, embark on a ferry to Capri, where you’ll have free time to wander the island’s picturesque streets, enjoy stunning views, and indulge in local delicacies.
With the guidance of a dedicated tour leader, you’ll receive insightful tips and recommendations to make the most of your visit. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this day trip offers the perfect blend of both. Plus, I have a full guide on visiting Capri with tips on where to eat and the best place to get custom sandals made!
22. Discover Florence & Pisa in a Full-Day Trip
If you don’t have time in your Italy itinerary to stay in Florence, then this tour in Rome is a must for you! You’ll see two of Italy’s most iconic cities in one unforgettable day. This full-day tour from Rome takes you to the magic of Florence and Pisa.
Start with a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside to Florence, where you’ll be swept into a world of art, history, and architecture. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David, stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, and soak in panoramic views from Piazzale Michelangelo. If you need ideas for 1 day in Florence, read my guide! After trying some of Florence’s most delicious food for lunch, head to Pisa (one of the best towns near Florence) to witness the world-famous Leaning Tower and explore the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this tour offers a blend of culture, history, and famous sights and yummy food. Perfect for travelers eager to experience the best of Tuscany in a single day!
23. Tuscany & Montepulciano Day Trip with Lunch & Wines
I know I say this about many places in Italy, but Tuscany truly has my heart. I really think you need to make time for a few days in Tuscany in your Italy itinerary, but if that’s just not possible for you, then this day tour is the next best option.
This day trip from Rome takes you to rolling vineyards to experience medieval charm, and some of Italy’s finest wines. Start with a guided walk through Montepulciano’s cobblestone streets, soaking in the Renaissance architecture and panoramic views.
Then, indulge in a 3-course lunch paired with local wines at a traditional Tuscan farm and winery. The day wraps up with free time in Pienza, where you can shop for pecorino cheese or simply enjoy the Tuscan countryside. With round-trip transport, an expert guide, and a relaxed itinerary, this is one of the best tours in Rome for wine lovers and culture seekers alike.
24. Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Day Trip with Lunch
The Amalfi tour above included a stop in Pompeii, but if you want more time there and the surrounding area of Mount Vesuvius, then this is the tour for you. Begin your journey with a guided tour through the remarkably preserved ruins of Pompeii, where you’ll explore ancient streets, homes, and frescoes frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Afterward, embark on a scenic drive to Mount Vesuvius, where you can hike to the summit and peer into the crater that once buried Pompeii under layers of ash. Along the way, enjoy a delicious 3-course lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Italian flavors. With expert guides, comfortable transportation, and a combination of history, nature, exercise and cuisine, this tour offers a comprehensive and enriching experience.
25. Bagnoregio & Orvieto Day Trip with Wines & Lunch
Last but definitely not least on my list of tours in Rome is a day trip to Lazio and Umbria on this full-day trip. Begin with a visit to the medieval hilltop town of Civita di Bagnoregio, often referred to as “the dying city” due to its precarious position atop a plateau. Wander through its narrow alleys and enjoy panoramic views that seem straight out of a fairy tale.
Next, head to Orvieto, a stunning town perched on a volcanic rock, known for its impressive cathedral and rich history. Enjoy a gourmet lunch featuring local delicacies, complemented by regional wines. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and cuisine, making it one of the best tours in Rome for those seeking an authentic Italian experience in the countryside.

No matter how many times you’ve been to Rome, there’s always something new to discover. From wandering ancient ruins and exploring hidden crypts to sipping wine in the Tuscan countryside or taking in the dramatic views along the Amalfi Coast, these best tours in Rome make it easy to experience the city—and beyond—like a local. So grab your tickets, pack your walking shoes, and get ready for a Roman adventure you’ll never forget!
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