Private Tour of Trajan’s Markets in Rome
Walk through Ancient Rome’s commercial hub and take in panoramic views with your personal guide
Did you know Trajan’s Markets were the world’s first shopping mall, showcasing the ingenuity of Ancient Roman engineering? With a dedicated personal guide, explore the Great Hall, Museum of the Imperial Forums, and Via Biberatica, all tailored to your interests and pace. Conclude with stunning views from the Panoramic Terrace, immersing yourself in the history and innovation of the Roman Empire.
What You Get With This Tour
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Stroll the world’s first “shopping mall”
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Expert English-speaking guide
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Trajan's Markets entry ticket
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Access to the Museum of the Imperial Forums
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Access to Via Biberatica and the Panoramic Terrace
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Private group experience
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Guide tips
Tour Itinerary
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1
Your tour begins at the main entrance near Torre delle Milizie
Walk to the entrance of Trajan's Markets where you'll meet your private guide. Get ready to step inside a remarkably preserved second-century complex that once served as the commercial center of the Roman Empire. -
2
Step into the awe-inspiring Great Hall
Walk through the central vaulted hall, an engineering marvel of ancient concrete construction. Your guide will explain how this grand space functioned as an administrative hub for the Emperor Trajan's vast network. -
3
Discover the Museum of the Imperial Forums
Next, explore the upper levels housing stone fragments, ancient statues, and detailed architectural models. Gain a deeper understanding of how the surrounding forums fit together during Rome's golden era. -
4
Stroll the peaceful Garden of the Militia
Then, step into a tranquil green courtyard set against medieval brick walls and ancient ruins. Learn how medieval nobles repurposed this Roman site over a millennium after its original construction. -
5
Take in sweeping views from the Panoramic Terrace
Ascend to the upper terrace for a stunning vantage point looking over the Roman Forum and city skyline. Enjoy prime photo opportunities while your guide points out key landmarks visible across the ancient landscape. -
6
Walk along the ancient street of Via Biberatica
Then reach Via Biberatica, a well-preserved Roman roadway that transports you back nearly two thousand years. Follow the stone paving past former taverns and specialty shops that once served busy Roman citizens. -
7
Peer inside the ancient shops, known as tabernae
Finally, inspect the individual vaulted shop fronts lining the complex. Discover how ancient merchants stored goods, traded spices, and ran daily businesses in these stone stalls. -
8
Conclude inside Trajan's Markets
Your tour finishes inside the complex, leaving you perfectly placed to continue exploring the remaining exhibits at your leisure. Walk away with a rich understanding of ancient Roman daily life and architectural brilliance.
Additional Information
Discover what to expect, what’s included, and everything you need to know before booking.
Good to know:
Accessibility: As this is a private tour, parts of the itinerary can be accommodated to be wheelchair or mobility accessible. Please reach out to make the proper arrangements for your visit.
Please note: The itinerary of a private tour can be adjusted to your needs. Please reach out if you do not see a start time that fits for your party. We would be happy to check with our ticketing team to see if we can accommodate you.
ID Requirement: Please bring a valid government-issued ID as it may be requested at site entry.
Dress Code: Comfortable attire and shoes are recommended for walking on uneven terrain and historic cobblestones.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can enter sites on time.
Your tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Trajan's Markets entry ticket
Access to the Museum of the Imperial Forums
Access to Via Biberatica and the Panoramic Terrace
Private group experience
What to bring:
Government-issued ID
Comfortable walking shoes
Camera
Water bottle
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Customer Reviews
Rosaria was a fantastic tour guide. Trajan's Market is visible from so many vantage points when you are touring the Roman ruins but it is rare to see it from this perspective. If you want to experience some unique views of what Rome looked like 2000 years ago this is the place to go.
I took my teenage son, and he loved it! The guide compared Trajan’s Market to modern malls, and the views from the upper level were amazing.
Our guide Fiona expertly explained the architecture and how it functioned as an ancient shopping center. The views from the upper levels were stunning, and it was such a peaceful contrast to the busier sites in Rome. Highly recommend for anyone interested in ancient Roman history!
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have concerns about my mobility?
Certain areas include stairs and uneven surfaces, so accessibility may be limited. Please contact us in advance with mobility concerns.
Can I take photos?
Yes, photography is allowed throughout most areas of Trajan’s Markets.
Are tickets included?
Yes, pre-reserved tickets are included for both Trajan’s Markets and the Museum of the Imperial Fora.
Can the tour be customized?
Absolutely! Let your guide know your interests, and they can tailor the experience to your preferences.
What language in this tour offered in?
This tour is run in either Italian or English. If you would like another language, please contact us directly so we can work to accommodate your request!
Is this tour family friendly?
Yes, this private walk is family friendly and can be adapted to keep younger travelers engaged. However, please note that the site features uneven historic paths, so strollers are not recommended.
