Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Private Rome Tour

With a private guide, unearth the trendiest Rome districts from Santa Maria Basilica to Tiber Island

Travel Flexibly 5 / 5 See All 17 Reviews · 3.00h · Rome, Italy

Want to escape the crowds and see a different side of Rome’s cultural heritage? Then join a personal Roman guide on an in-depth walking tour of two of the city’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods. See Rome from a whole new perspective as you stroll down tiny side streets in charming Trastevere, then dive into the city’s religious history in the Jewish Ghetto. Explore Basilica di Santa Maria, Portico d’Ottavia, and more before enjoying some delicious Jewish Pizza to top things off!

  • Rome neighborhoods walking tour
  • Discover the charms of Trastevere
  • Basilica di Santa Maria
  • Basilica di San Crisogono
  • Ancient underground crypt
  • Medieval Roman synagogue
  • Tiber Island
  • Ponte Fabricio
  • The Broken Bridge
  • Explore the Jewish Ghetto
  • Wander the vibrant main street
  • Portico d'Ottavia
  • Teatro di Marcellus
  • Turtle Fountain
  • Palazzo Mattei
  • Uncover Rome's Jewish History
  • The Great Jewish Synagogue

You'll meet your friendly local guide in Trastevere's Piazza Santa Maria, and you'll begin your private walking tour at the nearby Basilica di Santa Maria. Then, stroll through the neighborhoods picturesque side streets admiring sites such as the Basilica di San Crisogono and the facade of a medieval Roman synagogue, before crossing over Tiber Island on the way to the Jewish Ghetto.

In Rome's historic Jewish neighborhood, see the Portico d’Ottavia monument and ancient ruins of temples, palaces, and theaters, and learn the rich history of the city's Jewish community. Before ending your tour beside the Great Jewish Synagogue, you'll also enjoy a traditional sweet treat known locally as Jewish Pizza.

Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Private Tour Description

Your 3-hour Rome walking tour includes:

  • Tailored private tour of Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto

  • Visit the beautiful basilicas of Santa Maria and San Crisogono

  • See the Portico d’Ottavia and Grand Jewish Synagogue

  • Visit a traditional bakery where you can try "Jewish Pizza" (food not included)

  • Your own friendly English-speaking local guide

Please be aware that a €3 entrance fee must be paid locally to access the crypt of the San Crisogono church.

Begin at Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere

Your tour starts in one of Rome's most historic neighborhoods, Trastevere.  Once you've met your local expert Rome guide, you'll start the tour by exploring the heart of the neighborhood, Piazza Santa Maria.  Here, you'll find the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria, one of Rome's oldest and most beautiful churches.  Your guide will unravel the history and stories surrounding this Roman treasure as you admire its external facade, before entering the site to discover more of its stunning works of art.

Explore Vibrant Trastevere

After visiting the church, you'll continue exploring more of Trastevere, walking down its beautiful cobblestone streets and learning more about the neighborhood. Soon you'll come to your second stop, a beautiful church that is rarely seen by tourists - San Crisogono. In true "off the beaten path" style, your guide will lead you underground, where you'll come across an archaeological site that dates back to the time of Constantine I. Explore the remains of the original church, as well as see ancient Roman houses and the remains of what were once beautiful frescoes now being restored!

From here, you'll continue your journey into the quieter side of Trastevere in search of the facade of a Medieval Roman synagogue. Many people associate Rome with Christianity, but there has been a Jewish community living in Rome for almost 2,000 years! Historically, the Romans were pagans, but they also respected the Jewish religion as it dated back much further than their own.  But, as your guide will reveal to you, this wasn't how they felt about all religions.

After meandering your way through the side-streets of Trastevere, you will cross the Tiber River, by way of Tiber Island. As you cross, your guide will point out a famous Roman bridge that many people overlook and explain the significance of this island and the bridges connecting it to the mainland. Once on the other side, you'll have officially entered the Jewish Ghetto, one of Rome’s most vibrant neighborhoods!

Jewish Ghetto

You'll begin exploring the Jewish area of Rome by passing through Piazza 16 October 1943, dedicated to a tragic day in history for the Roman-Jewish culture. You'll then approach the Portico d’Ottavia, an important monument of Ancient Rome, built in the Augustan era. Here, along the main drag of the neighborhood, you’ll discover Roman ruins, an iconic temple, a palace full of ancient carvings, and pass by an ancient theater that many mistake for the Colosseum. What's more, your guide will show you one of the most loved fountains in all of Rome, as you learn about the legend behind its "instant" construction and what happened as a result!

Once you've gotten a feel for the history of the Jewish Ghetto, you'll be introduced to its more modern side. This vibrant neighborhood is steeped in history, but it's also a foodie’s paradise. Walking down the main drag of the Jewish Ghetto, your guide will point out where to find the best kosher restaurants in Rome. Rome Jewish restaurants are aplenty, with many dishes to try like the traditional Jewish-style deep-fried whole artichokes. Of course, by now you must be getting a little hungry, so your guide will then take you to a a much-loved local bakery where you can try an amazing Jewish treat called "Pizza", but this is not the pizza you'll be familiar with. Here is a hint… it’s not savory!

Your tour will end in front of the Great Jewish Synagogue, one of the largest in all of Europe. Here your guide will introduce you to this important synagogue, and will let you know the opening hours and ticket details should you be interested in taking a guided tour of the interior.

As the tour ends close to lunchtime, your guide will also show you the best places to grab a bite to eat for lunch. The perfect ending to your cultural tour through Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto!

What you get with this tour
Tailored private tour of Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto
Visit the beautiful basilicas of Santa Maria and San Crisogono
See the Portico d’Ottavia and Grand Jewish Synagogue
Visit a traditional bakery where you can try "Jewish Pizza" (food not included)
Your own friendly English-speaking local guide
Tripadvisor Logo

See what people are saying

17 total reviews

Leave a review
5.0/5 (based on 17 reviews)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 stars
11 March 2024
M
Reviewed by
Mickey Davis

Terrific Tour
27 December 2023
A
Reviewed by
Anne Kelly

My daughter and I got so much out of our tour with Frederica. She was so knowledgeable & enthusiastically shared all she knew about ancient architecture, history, and relationships with us. In addition, she easily responded to our interests & questions. Our tour included churches, synagogues, ancient ruins, the ghetto, and other sites of interest. Very comprehensive. We thoroughly enjoyed our learning afternoon with Frederica

Early churches and Jewish Temple and delicacies
31 October 2023
R
Reviewed by
Robert Raunikar

Our guide was superb. He guided us through three important churches in the area with historical context to appreciate them. He told us the history of the area and detailed the challenges the Jewish community faced from ancient to more modern times. Moving to see the remembrance stones honoring those taken to Auschwitz and the few who survived. Also the history of the five synagogues joining into a single Temple which stands along the Tiber. We enjoyed a Jewish pastry and delicious unique way of making pizza. We also had a history lesson and the monuments Augustus placed for his sister and nephew. Thanks for a rich and rewarding excursion!

show more reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto have particular uneven cobblestones so comfortable shoes are recommended as always. Bring a few euro coins for entrance to the crypt during the tour.

Do we get to visit the synagogue?

This tour does not go inside the Great Synagogue with the guide but the tour does end nearby so you can explore on your own afterwards or at another time.

There is mention of food in the tour description. Is this included in the price?

During the tour, we take you to a famous bakery to explain its history and importance in the Jewish community of Rome. If you'd like to sample some of their famous Jewish 'pizza', be our guest. The price of food is not included in this tour.

Are there any extra fees to be paid on the day of my tour?

A €3 entrance fee is charged to access the crypt of the San Crisogono church.

What to bring?

Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto have particular uneven cobblestones so comfortable shoes are recommended as always. Bring a few euro coins for entrance to the crypt during the tour.

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

If you have any doubts about your mobility then this private tour is your best option as it can be more easily tailored to your needs. Please get in touch so we can make sure the activities and arrangements are suitable for you.

Start From: $197.75

available days discounted days

Reserve Now $197.75 / per person
$197.75 / per person
You may also like
Skip the Line
Up to 12% off

Skip the Line

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Explore the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!

Exclusive Access
Up to 12% off

Exclusive Access

Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour through the Gladiator's Gate

Walk in the footsteps of gladiators on the Colosseum floor and see the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Skip the Line
Up to 12% off

Skip the Line

Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Skip the line and gain direct access to the Raphael Rooms, Creation of Man, and St. Peter's Basilica

Skip the Line
Up to 15% off

Skip the Line

Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Skip the line at the Colosseum, plus Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!

Skip the Line
Up to 12% off

Skip the Line

St. Peter's Dome Climb and Sistine Chapel Combo Tour

Save money while seeing Rome from above, the Papal Crypts below, and the Vatican museums nearby

Exclusive Access
Up to 12% off

Exclusive Access

Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Get special access to the Underground dungeons and Arena Floor on this guided small group tour

Skip the Line
Up to 12% off

Skip the Line

Rome Catacombs Tour and Capuchin Crypts with Transportation

Skip the line and explore a creepy underground world of Roman tombs and crypts with an expert guide

Skip the Line
Up to 12% off

Skip the Line

Semi-Private Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Enjoy a premium and exclusive tour of the Raphael Rooms, St.Peter's Basilica, and more!

Skip the Line
Up to 12% off

Skip the Line

Vatican After Hours Tour with Sistine Chapel

Book a unique experience that visits the Vatican after hours with fewer crowds

Entry Ticket

Entry Ticket

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets

Skip the line and gain quicker access to the Vatican so you can explore at your leisure

Day Trip

Day Trip

Unforgettable Rome Day Trip to Pompeii and Sorrento

The easiest way to dive deep into the famous ancient ruins and soak up the sunny coast of Sorrento

Guided Tour
Up to 12% off

Guided Tour

Trastevere Local Food Tour in Rome

Join a culinary guide to indulge in tasty cheese, pasta, gelato, wine, and authentic food of Rome

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour

See the wonders of the Vatican on a tailored private tour with expert guide and skip-the-line entry

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St Peter's Basilica Tour

Enjoy a tailored VIP Vatican experience with a dedicated private guide

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Vatican Museums

See the best of Rome your way with a private guide at the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, and more!

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

See the Colosseum and ancient Rome like a VIP, the Temple of Caesar, and more!

Transportation Included

Transportation Included

Rome Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia

Book a private Rome tour and see the Colosseum, Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and more in just one day!

New tour

New tour

3-Hour Scenic Golf Cart Tour of Rome in a Small Group

Experience the Eternal City in complete comfort with stops at 8 iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites

Skip the Line
Up to 12% off

Skip the Line

Ultimate St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb and Tour with Papal Crypts

See St. Peter’s Basilica up close and climb the dome for the best views of Rome and the Vatican

Skip the Line
Up to 12% off

Skip the Line

After Hours Rome Catacombs Tour with Capuchin Crypts

Experience Rome’s creepy underground tombs and eerie bone displays on this exclusive night tour

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Family-Friendly Vatican and Sistine Chapel Tour

Enjoy a boredom-free Vatican private tour that's perfect for kids, with treasure hunt and fun guide

New Tour

New Tour

Rome Golf Cart Food Tour: Explore the City's Iconic Sites and Cuisine

Journey Through Time and Taste on a Small-Group Adventure

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Catacombs Private Tour in Rome

Discover the mysterious Roman Catacombs, Capuchin Crypts, and Appian Way on an intimate private tour

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Colosseum Arena Floor with Trastevere Local Food Tour Combo

Step through Gladiator's Gate then discover true Roman cuisine on this great value full day tour

New Tour
Up to 20% off

New Tour

Full Day Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Tour from Rome

Skip-the-line at Pompeii, savor a three-course meal, and walk amid Mt. Vesuvius’ volcanic formations

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Rome City Driving Tour

See the best of Rome with the comfort of your own private vehicle and a dedicated local tour guide

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Colosseum, Roman Forum & Vatican Highlights Combo Tour

Skip the line at two of Rome’s most iconic sites with Sistine Chapel and Palatine Hill included

New Tour

New Tour

Skip-the-Line Pantheon Express Guided Tour in Rome

In one hour, discover the storied dome, Oculus, and tombs of Rome’s ancient temple with your guide!

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Family-Friendly Rome Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour

Bring the Colosseum to life on this interactive kids tour with a treasure hunt and fun local guide

Private Tour

Private Tour

Rome Evening Cocktail Tour with Local Guide

Experience Rome’s cocktail culture as you stroll by the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trastevere!

New Tour

New Tour

Ultimate Pizza & Tiramisu Making Class Near Piazza Navona

Learn the secrets of making authentic tiramisu and pizza from a pizzaiolo chef before devouring them

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

The Quickest Direct Access Private Vatican Tour

Explore the Vatican on a shorter, tailored tour that includes the Sistine Chapel

New Tour

New Tour

Positano and Amalfi Day Trip from Rome with Boat Cruise

Navigate along the Coast, explore the picturesque town of Positano, and enjoy a classic limoncello

Guided Tour

Guided Tour

Half Day Electric Bike Tour of Rome

Pedal past the Colosseum, Piazza Navona, and up Capitoline Hill in the peaceful morning

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Local Trastevere Food Tour Combo

Book these two top-rated tours together for great savings and a truly unforgettable day in Rome!

New Tour

New Tour

Rome’s Appian Way Tour by E-Bike

Pedal through Parco dell’Appia Antica alongside an expert guide and admire ancient Roman marvels

Private Tour

Private Tour

Vatican Under the Stars Private Evening Tour with Sistine Chapel

Appreciate the Vatican masterpieces without the crowds on an after-hours tour with a private guide

New Tour

New Tour

Rome Evening Tour by Tuk Tuk

Journey from the Colosseum to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain with a private driver-guide

New Tour

New Tour

Tasty Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class Near Piazza Navona

Cook like a pro with a local chef as you master two Italian dishes then savor your own creations

New Tour

New Tour

Testaccio Small Group Food Tour

Sip an espresso, indulge in authentic Italian pasta and wine, and explore a local Roman Market

New Tour
Up to 6% off

New Tour

Rome Sightseeing Tour by Golf Cart

Whiz through Rome to see the Colosseum, Vatican, Roman Forum, Oppian Hill, Tiber Island, and more!

New Tour

New Tour

Rome’s Catacombs and Appian Way Golf Cart Small Group Tour

Escape the crowds and journey through ancient roads and underground tombs alongside an expert guide

New Tour

New Tour

Skip-the-Line Borghese Gallery Small Group Tour in Rome

Embark on a small group guided experience , and discover works by Bernini, Caravaggio and Canova

New Tour

New Tour

Ape Calessino Private Tour of Rome’s Seven Hills

Cruise to the Orange Gardens, and admire the view from Circus Maximum from a real Ape Calessino!

New Tour

New Tour

Trastevere Food Tour and Pasta Making Class

Sample classic Roman delicacies and learn how to make fettuccine from scratch!

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Day Trip from Rome with Vineyard Lunch and Wine Tasting

Wander through the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza and enjoy a 3-course meal!

New Tour

New Tour

Four-Course Roman Dinner with Wine Pairing Near the Pantheon

Taste exquisite Italian food with sommelier-style pairings in a stunning 15th-century building

New Tour

New Tour

Rome by Vespa Small Group Driving Tour

Join an intimate Vespa convoy and scoot past the Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona

New Tour

New Tour

Traditional Roman Cooking Class in Jewish Ghetto

Learn how to make pasta, seasonal vegetables, and a traditional dessert in a charming neighborhood

New Tour

New Tour

Trastevere Pasta Making Class: Fettuccine and Maltagliati

Head to Rome’s trendiest food district to try your hand at authentic pasta making (and eating!)

Skip the Line
Up to 12% off

Skip the Line

Exclusive After Hours Sistine Chapel Tour with Aperitivo

Sip drinks in the Pinecone Courtyard after your quieter experience exploring an almost-empty Vatican

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Vatican Uncovered: A Private, Detailed Tour

Get an in-depth experience tailored to your interests of art, sculptures, and the Sistine Chapel

Exclusive access

Exclusive access

VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground and Arena Floor

See a different perspective of the Colosseum and Roman Forum with no crowds at night

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Half Day E-Bike Tour of Rome

Cycle through the Roman streets with ease to see the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!

Cooking Class

Cooking Class

Dough to Dessert: 3-in-1 Cooking Class near Piazza Navona

Master the art of making fettuccine, ravioli, and mouthwatering tiramisu in a single day!

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Sistine Chapel, Vatican Gardens & Castel Gandolfo Day Trip

Travel to the Pope’s summer residence by train after an in-depth Vatican Gardens and museums tour

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius Day Trip from Rome

An unforgettable visit to ancient ruins with all the details and transportation taken care of

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Borghese Gallery Tour

Admire stunning Renaissance art most miss like Bernini's Rape of Proserpina & Apollo and Daphne

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Alone at the Vatican: Private After Hours Tour

Experience the quiet of the Sistine Chapel without the crowds after your tailored tour

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Basilicas of Rome Private Driving Tour

Uncover relics of Catholic history and three of Rome’s major churches with an expert local guide

Private Tour

Private Tour

Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio & Winery Private Day Trip from Rome

Escape the city on a memorable journey through Umbria’s historic towns to taste fine local wines

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Transfer from Rome to Amalfi Coast with Tour of Pompeii

Travel south in style with door-to-door service, and explore Italy’s lost city with a private guide

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Pompeii & Sorrento Day Trip from Rome

Step back in time with a private guided tour of Pompeii then enjoy a lazy afternoon in Sorrento

Private Tour

Private Tour

Tivoli Fountains & Hadrian's Villa Private Tour from Rome

Escape the city on a VIP private day trip to Tivoli, with Villa d’Este, Hadrian’s Estate, and more!

Private Tour

Private Tour

Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence

Take to the skies on the ultimate VIP Tuscany tour that includes wine tasting and a gourmet lunch

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Privileged Entrance Colosseum with Rome Walking Tour

Skip the line at the Colosseum and Roman Forum then see the ancient history of Rome on a city tour

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

History of Christianity Tour with Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and Catacombs

Step back into Catholic history at the Roman crypts and skip the line to see the Vatican treasures

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Ancient Rome Tour with Colosseum Arena Floor & Catacombs

Explore the history of Rome and save money with our combined Colosseum, Forum, and Catacombs tour

Private Tour

Private Tour

Piazza Navona Underground Ruins Tour with Palazzo Altemps

Admire the stunning Suicidal Gaul, Athlete at Rest, and more then see the ruins of Domitian' Stadium

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Palazzo Barberini Museum Tour with Art Historian Guide

See Judith Beheading Holofrenes, La Fornarina, and more inside this opulent 17th-century palace

New Tour

New Tour

Prati Eats: A Delicious Walking Tour

Indulge in Rome's famous pizza, pasta, and wine alongside a knowledgeable foodie guide

New Tour
Up to 18% off

New Tour

Segway Tour of Imperial Rome

Admire the Colosseum, Circus Maximus and more, during a guided 2-hour journey in a Small Group

New Tour
Up to 18% off

New Tour

Segway Tour of Baroque Rome in a Small Group

Zip to the Pantheon, Piazza Venezia, theTrevi Fountain, and more of ancient Rome’s treasures!

New Tour

New Tour

Guided Buggy Self-Drive Tour of Rome

Cruise to the Eternal City’s most iconic landmarks, historic monuments, and breathtaking viewpoints!

New Tour

New Tour

Castel Sant’ Angelo Skip the Line Small Group Tour in Rome

Visit Hadrian’s Tomb, learn about the legend of Archangel Michael, and view stunning frescoes!

New Tour

New Tour

Rome Vintage Fiat 500 Sightseeing Tour

Cruise around in style as you explore the Eternal City’s top landmarks, sights, and attractions!