Private Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Vatican Museums
Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more with a private, licensed guide
Is it possible to explore the best of Rome in one day? Well, Rome wasn’t built in a day, but you can see the most iconic places in a day with our experienced, local guides! In just 7 hours, you’ll be mesmerized under the Sistine Chapel, wowed at the Colosseum, and inspired at the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and much more. Your jam-packed day is stress-free since tickets and transportation are included, so you can just enjoy your private guide's compelling narratives.
Tour Details
- Colosseum
- Gladiators, Emperors and Spectators
- Arch of Constantine
- Arch of Titus
- Rome's Eternal Flame
- Basilica of Antoninus and Faustina
- Senate House
- Julius Caesar's Temple
- Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
- Largo Argentina
- Trevi Fountain
- Spanish Steps
- Vatican Museums
- Gallery of the Candelabra
- Gallery of the Tapestries
- Sistine Chapel
- Michelangelo's Masterpieces
- St. Peter's Basilica
- La Pietà by Michelangelo
- Baldacchino by Bernini
At The Tour Guy, we believe in maximizing your limited vacation time in Italy. Even if you don't have a week to spend in Rome, you'll want to hit all the best bucket list attractions in Rome. This tour is the best way to see Rome in a day with a private guide who can make the trip comfortable and unbelievably memorable. This 7-hour, full-day tour includes:
Private English-speaking guide and driver
Comfortable, air-conditioned luxury transportation
Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tour
Colosseum Tour
Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona
Please note: the order of the itinerary below may change, depending on time of year, site openings, and ticket availability.
Luxury Transportation Around Rome (Drop-Off Included)
To make this private tour in Rome even better, you'll be driven around Rome in luxury, climate-controlled vehicle. While a hotel pickup is not included, we can arrange a private transfer in the morning for an additional fee. Otherwise, meet your guide at the designated meeting spot (Caffè Vaticano on Viale Vaticano, 100). Then, after your Rome driving tour, you'll be dropped off at your city center hotel. Not sure if you're staying in central Rome? Contact our Travel Experts by email or online chat to find out if your hotel is located within the drop off area.
Guided Vatican Museums Tour
Kick off your private Rome in a Day Tour with the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Skip the regular ticket line with your private guide who will lead the way. As an accredited tour operator, we do not have to wait in the ticket line—we get in right after the security check (during the busier months there may be a longer-than-usual line at security). Once inside, visit the Gallery of the Candelabra, Gallery of the Tapestries, and our personal favorite, the Gallery of the Maps.
Experience Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel
Since the Sistine Chapel is located inside the Vatican Museums, it’s included in your Vatican tour tickets. Experience Michelangelo’s masterpiece the way it was meant to be: in person. Photos and video just don't do his work justice; only when you enter the Sistine Chapel is it clear how high the ceiling is and how many frescos there are. The Sistine Chapel is a place of worship, so speaking inside is prohibited. We provide you with a map/handout for reference before entering the chapel, after your guide explains the significance of Michelangelo’s artwork. The map will help you understand what you're seeing while standing under the most popular ceiling in the world.
To enter the Sistine Chapel, both men and women must cover their knees and shoulders; otherwise, you may be refused entry to this portion of your Vatican tour. We understand the summers in Rome are hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter's Basilica is a monumental, ornate church filled with works by some of the most celebrated artists in history. Enter through a special door reserved for visitors accompanied by guides, and go straight inside the palatial Renaissance church. Once inside, admire the Baldacchino, La Pieta, the statue of St. Peter and much more. St. Peter's holds the rank of Major Basilica. Only four exist in the world and all four are located in Rome!
After your first dose of culture, chances are, you’ll have worked up quite an appetite. You'll have a break for lunch so you can sample some typical Roman delicacies and high-quality Italian vino. While lunch isn't included in the price of the tour, you can count on your tour guide to suggest some ideal spots.
Please note: St. Peter's Basilica is closed on Wednesdays for the Papal Audience and can occasionally experience other unexpected closures. If this happens, your guide will make up the time at other areas within the Vatican.
Private Rome City Tour
Rome is full of historically significant buildings, impressive works of art, fountains, and hilltops with panoramic views. It often takes people two or three visits to check off the must-see sites in Rome, but with your personal guide and a driver, it’s not hard to do in one day. For this portion of the tour, you'll visit Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Largo Argentina, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. In addition to these famous places, your expert guide will show you several hidden gems along the way.
Skip-the-Line Private Colosseum Tour
After a refreshing gelato at our favorite artisanal gelato shop in Rome (gelato must be purchased separately), we'll drive you directly to Rome's most iconic site: the Colosseum. This must-see attraction in Rome was used for gladiator fights, mock sea battles, animal hunts and fights, drama shows, and even public executions. Witness the incredible history of this 2,000-year-old structure up close on a private, skip-the-line Colosseum tour.
If there is time after your visit to the Colosseum, your guide will escort you to the nearby Roman Forum. The ruins here are what remains of ancient Rome's downtown area. Visit some of the most famous Roman Forum buildings, including the Temple of Julius Caesar, Arch of Titus, the Temple of Vesta, and the Roman Senate House. Here you'll walk down the same roads taken by famous Roman Emperors and philosophers. Finally, you'll be dropped off at your central hotel where you can enjoy a well-needed rest.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
18 total reviews
Leave a reviewAmazing private Rome tour for 17! Livia is the best!
Sonia Szymura
This isn't an "easy" tour (very long day, especially fighting jet lag) but if you are only in Rome for one day, this is the tour you want. Livia was an excellent private guide, with us all day except for an hour at lunch. The tour company arranged all transportation for 17 of us, ages 16 - 84. Livia coordinated it all perfectly. Her knowledge of Rome was more than impressive. We saw so much in such a short amount of time, it was (almost) overwhelming, but the only way we could do it since we were headed out on a cruise the next day. Take lots of pictures! So glad we did it - it was worth every penny. Thank you Livia!
Amazing experience
Anuja rose francis
We had a wonderful full day tour with Roberta who is incredibly knowledgeable about Rome. We would highly recommend her. Thank you very much for the amazing experience.
Great Tour!
Trevor Hall
This was an amazing tour with incredible staff, very helpful and knowledgeable guides. There was a bit more walking than I expected, but this was great because of how much of the city we saw. For the dress code, there are only 2 times when you will need to have shoulders / knees covered: briefly in the Sistine Chapel and then later again when entering Pantheon. I was fine in shorts and and short sleeve button up shirt, my wife had to cover her shoulders at the two attractions as she wore something sleeveless. If you forget, there will be plenty of pushy sidewalk vendors trying to sell scarfs to tourists outside the Vatican Museum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to meet?
Meet us between Hotel Alimandi and Caffé Vaticano at the top of the big staircase (Viale Vaticano, 100). A representative will be there holding a sign with our company name on it.
What to bring?
Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and some coins for making a wish in the Trevi Fountain. Since this is a walking (and driving) tour that includes a visit to the Colosseum and Roman Forum (an archeological site with uneven terrain), we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. In addition, some sites on this tour are religious, so knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. We know that Rome is hot in the summer, so bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.
Is there a dress code to enter the religious sites on this tour?
We ask both men and women to cover knees and shoulders, otherwise you might be refused entry to religious sites and miss out on a portion of your tour. We understand the summers in Rome can be hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
This private tour is your best bet if you have concerns about navigating the areas on this tour. Our private tours offer more flexibility in terms of pace and special accommodations.
How comprehensive are the Colosseum and Vatican portions of this tour?
In the spirit of seeing as much of Rome in one day as possible, the Colosseum and Vatican sections of this tour are abbreviated more than our dedicated Colosseum and Vatican tours. You'll still get to witness all the most important elements of these impressive attractions though.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No hotel pickup is included. Please meet your guide at Caffè Vaticano across from the Vatican Museums. After a guided Vatican Museums tour, you'll meet your driver for a private driving tour of Rome before walking into the Colosseum. Afterwards, you'll get back in the vehicle and be dropped off at your hotel (as long as it's in the city center of Rome). If you're interested in adding on a private transfer to the meeting point, please reach out to us by email or give us a call at one of the toll-free numbers at the bottom of this page.
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
No, but you'll have a 1-hour break to find delicious food. We're happy to recommend one of our favorite spots, but your guide is sure to point you in the right direction too.
What to bring?
Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and some coins for making a wish in the Trevi Fountain. Since this is a walking (and driving) tour that includes a visit to the Colosseum and Roman Forum (an archeological site with uneven terrain), we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. In addition, some sites on this tour are religious, so knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. We know that Rome is hot in the summer, so bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.
Where to meet?
Meet us between Hotel Alimandi and Caffé Vaticano at the top of the big staircase (Viale Vaticano, 100). A representative will be there holding a sign with our company name on it.
You may also like
Exclusive Access
Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Explore the Underground tunnels and Arena Floor with an experienced guide and small group
Skip the Line
Rome in a Day Tour With Colosseum and Vatican Museums
Explore the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and more with a passionate guide
Skip the Line
Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel
Enjoy early access to see the Raphael Rooms, Creation of Man, St. Peter's Basilica, and more
Day Trip
Day Trip From Rome to Pompeii and Sorrento
Explore the archeological ruins with a guide then dive into the coastal town of Sorrento
Skip the Line
Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel
See the bucket-list Vatican attractions with start times throughout the day
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
Guided Tour
Trastevere Local Food Tour in Rome
Join a Roman culinary guide and indulge in tasty Italian cheese, pasta, gelato, wine, and more
Exclusive Access
Privileged Entrance Arena Floor Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum
Enter the Colosseum faster and step onto the Arena Floor like a true gladiator
Covid Test
Rome Rapid/Antigen Covid-19 Test
Reserve your travel-certified Covid-19 test online today
Skip the Line
Complete Vatican Combo Tour with Sistine Chapel & Dome Climb
Skip the line at the Vatican Museums, explore the Papal Crypts, and climb St. Peter's Basilica
Skip the Line
Detailed Itinerary Vatican in a Day Tour with Sistine Chapel
Dive deep into the Pinacoteca, Raphael Rooms, Sistine Chapel, and Papal Tombs
Skip the Line
VIP Rome Catacombs Night Tour with Capuchin Crypts
Experience Rome’s creepy underground tombs and eerie bone displays on this exclusive night tour
Skip the Line
Vatican Night Tour with Sistine Chapel
Enjoy a unique opportunity to visit the Vatican after hours without the crowds
Skip the Line
Rome Catacombs Tour With Capuchin Crypts
Skip the line and explore a creepy underground world of Roman tombs and crypts with an expert guide
Skip the Line
8:30am Vatican, Sistine Chapel, & St. Peter's Basilica Tour
A bespoke Vatican experience for those who can appreciate a private guide and less crowds
Skip the Line
Private Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
Backdoor access to Colosseum plus Arena Floor, Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!
Skip the Line
Vatican Highlights Tour with Sistine Chapel
Enjoy skip-the-line early access on an abridged tour of the top Vatican attractions
Private Tour
Rome Evening Cocktail Tour with Local Guide
Visit 3 Trendy Cocktail Bars as you walk by the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trastevere!
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
History of Christianity Tour with Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and Catacombs
Skip lines at Vatican Museums and Catacombs
Private Tour
Private Half Day E-Bike Tour of Rome
Visit the Main Sites Including the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Colosseum, and More!
Skip the Line
Privileged Entrance Colosseum with Rome Walking Tour
Skip the line at the Colosseum and Roman Forum before enjoying a guided walking city tour
Skip the Line
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour
Skip the line to enter the Vatican City with a licensed guide
Skip the Line
Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Faster entry into the Colosseum, plus Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!
Guided Tour
Rome Walking Tour with Pasta Making Class and Lunch
See the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and Make Pasta Hands On with an Italian Expert Chef!
Skip the Line
Sistine Chapel, Vatican Gardens & Castel Gandolfo Day Trip
Travel from the Pope's Train Station to the Pope's Summer Home After Visiting the Vatican Museum
Guided Tour
Half Day Electric Bike Tour of Rome
See more of Rome by cycling your way to the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and more on an e-bike
Entry Ticket
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets
Skip the line and gain quicker access to the Vatican so you can explore at your leisure
Skip the Line
Colosseum Underground plus Belvedere Top Level Tour
Includes Palatine Hill, Roman Forum, and newly opened tunnels
Skip the Line
Private Full Day Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica
An Immersive and In-Depth Vatican Experience with a Licensed Guide
Skip the Line
8am Entrance Platinum Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel
Red Carpet Access to the Vatican Museums Licensed Guide with St. Peter's Basilica Drop Off
Skip the Line
Private Family-Friendly Vatican and Sistine Chapel Tour
Guided Treasure Hunt of the Vatican Museums with History and Stories for Children 4 - 10 years Old
Private Tour
Vatican Under the Stars Private Evening Tour with Sistine Chapel
An Evening Tour of the Vatican with Fewer Crowds
Skip the Line
Catacombs Private Tour in Rome
Visit the Catacombs, Appian Way, and Capuchin Crypts Bone Church with Trasnportation
Private Tour
Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius Day Trip from Rome
Private vehicle from Rome to Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius with private guides
Skip the Line
The Borghese Gallery "Story Tellers" Private Tour
Up Close & Personal Experience to See Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael.
Private Tour
Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Private Rome Tour
Walking Tour of Basilica of S.M., Tiber Island, Ancient Crypt, Synagogue (outside), and Jewish Pizza!
Skip the Line
VIP Vatican Museums After-Hours Private Tour with Sistine Chapel
Exclusive After-Hours Vatican Tour
Skip the Line
Basilicas of Rome Private Driving Tour
Visit 3 Iconic, Roman Basilicas with an Expert Guide and Transportation Included.
Skip the Line
Private Family-Friendly Rome Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
An Immersive Experience for Children & Adults Alike with an Ancient Roman Treasure Hunt.
Skip the Line
Private Vatican Highlights Tour with Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica
Create a More Memorable Experience with a Knowledgeable Guide
Private Tour
Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio and Wine Tasting Day Trip from Rome
Visit the "Dying City" of Civita, Medieval Orvieto and a Delicious Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard
Transportation Included
Rome Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia
Transportation, Vatican & Colosseum admissions, and great guide included!
Private Tour
Private transfer from Rome to Amalfi Coast with tour of Pompeii
Includes hotel pick up in Rome, drop off in Amalfi Coast, admissions, and private guide of Pompeii
Private Tour
Private Pompeii & Sorrento Day Trip from Rome
Round-trip private transport, admissions & guide in Pompeii, and a stop in Sorrento!
Private Tour
Tivoli Fountains & Hadrian's Villa Private Tour from Rome
Private transportation and guided tour of Villa D'Este and Emperor Hadrians Estate
Private Tour
Montalcino "Brunello" Day Trip by Helicopter
Helicopter Transportation from Rome or Florence, 2 Vineyard Tastings, and Lunch Included
Skip the Line
Vatican Highlights with Rome Walking Tour
See the Vatican, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, and More!
Skip the Line
Ancient Rome Tour with Colosseum Arena Floor & Catacombs Tours
Save money by purchasing the Arena Floor Colosseum tour with our Roman catacombs tour
Skip the Line
Colosseum Arena Floor with Trastevere Local Food Tour Combo
Save money by purchasing the Arena Floor Colosseum tour with our Trastevere food tour!
Skip the Line
Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Local Trastevere Food Tour Combo
Save Money by Purchasing a Vatican Tour with our Trastevere Food Tour
Private Tour
Private Campidoglio and Capitoline Museums Tour
Discover a Top Collection of Ancient Roman Art with a Private Art Historian Guide
Private Tour
Piazza Navona Underground Ruins Tour with Palazzo Altemps
Visit the ruins of Dometian's Stadium below Piazza Navona before seeing the famous Suicidal Gaul
Private Tour
Private Palazzo Barberini Museum Tour with Art Historian Guide
See Judith Beheading Holofrenes and Rome's best collection of paintings
