A professional photographer will take you to some of Rome’s hidden gems during Golden Hour. Next morning, skip the lines at the Vatican with an expert guide, visit a secret room, and listen to tales of the Three Graces. Of course, you’ll see Michelangelo’s gem, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Celebrate Rome at sunset with an Aperitivo.
No visit to Ancient Rome is complete without a personal tour of the Colosseum, the Gladiator Gate, the Forum, and the Palantine Hill. Julius Caesar’s Temple is a particular wonder. Feel the past come to life!
4-Star Baroque Historic Gem Hotel - Rome, Lazio Region
Room Type: Superior Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Included Unique Activities
Golf Cart Photo Tour
Rome, Lazio Region
Fulfill your dream of capturing Rome’s beauty on this exclusive tour with a professional photographer. Zip-around on a Golf Cart and visit the best photo opportunities in Rome. Bring your photography gear or smartphone, and a real pro will take you to the most picturesque spots in the Eternal City. Happening during Rome’s world-famous “Golden Hour,” the experience is a balanced mixture of iconic monuments, panoramic views, and everyday life. You will be taken from spot to spot, without worrying about where to go—the perfect spots are planned for you in advance. Choose different angles or apply different settings and features. Your local guide will explain the history of various sites while assisting you in capturing the moment. At the end of your tour, your fellow travelers will celebrate with a typical aperitivo in the center of Rome. Enjoy!
Suggested Sightseeing
Historic Center of Rome, Lazio Region
When you travel to Rome, you’ll understand why the entire historic city center, within the ancient city walls as well as the Basilica of St. Paul’s, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a complex, yet almost seamless, pattern of archaeological sites mixed with urban hot spots. Founded on the banks of the Tiber River in 753 BC, it was the center of the Roman Republic. That was followed by becoming the heart of the Roman Empire and then the Christian world.
With each period of growth, new buildings were built on top of old, often repurposing materials and space. Beginning in the 15th century, the story of Rome was reflected in the Renaissance and then during the Baroque period. In many ways, Rome is indelibly linked with the story of Western civilization as the people’s beliefs and values changed over thousands of years.
Trevi Fountain, Rome, Lazio Region
Standing 86 feet high and 161 feet wide, the Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. Designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi and completed by Pietro Bracci in 1762, the fountain is a stunning monument in the center of the city. Legend has it that those who toss coins into its waters will return to Rome, making it a tradition for its visitors. The coins are collected every night and given to the Italian charity called Caritas, so it is illegal to fish them out from the famous fountain.
Spanish Steps, Rome, Lazio Region
Made up of 135 steps, the Spanish Steps climb the steep slope between the Piazza di Spagna at the base and Piazza Trinità dei Monti, dominated by the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. This popular Roman monument was designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi and was completed in 1725. At the lower end of the stairs, in the Piazza di Spagna, you can find an early Baroque fountain called Fontana della Barcaccia (Fountain of the Old Boat). The fountain has the form of a sinking ship and is said to be based upon a folk legend that tells a story of a fishing boat that was carried all the way to this exact spot during a massive flood of the Tiber River in the 16th century. Take a seat on the grand staircase and take in the beauty of the eternal city.
Arrive at
Rome, Lazio Region
On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.
As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.
Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.
Overnight Location
Rome, Lazio Region
On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.
As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.
Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.
Day 2
Accommodation
4-Star Baroque Historic Gem Hotel - Rome, Lazio Region
Room Type: Superior Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Included Unique Activities
Vatican Tour with Secret Room
Rome, Lazio Region
Skip the long lines, and explore one of the most beautiful museums in the world with an expert guide. Your VIP tour allows entrance into the Vatican Museums one hour before it is open to the public. Enjoy the early quiet of the Pinecone Courtyard and the Museo Clementino. Admire the artistry of the statue of the Lacoon Priest of Troy. Your guide will escort you to a roped-off room, the Cabinet of the Masks, opened exclusively for our guests. The 18th century hall has stunning mosaic floors, brought from Hadrian’s Villa at Tivoli. Listen to tales of the statues of the Three Graces, Aphrodite, and the Nymphs. Having enjoyed the solace of the Vatican’s Secret Room, make your way through the Vatican Museums with breathtaking highlights such as the Belvedere Torso, inspiration for Christ’s likeness in Michelangelo’s Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel. Discover the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Maps, and the Raphael Rooms, created exclusively by this master artist.
Your tour continues to Michelangelo’s gem, the Sistine Chapel. The Chapel observes silence—your guide will tell you about this sacred space before you enter. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, with art such as the Pietà by Michelangelo, a sculpture of Mary holding Jesus. Other renowned works include the Baldacchino by Bernini, and Michelangelo’s majestic dome, which marks Rome’s skyline. After the tour, climb to the top for stunning views.
Prati by Sunset - The Roman Food Tour
Rome, Lazio Region
This food tour in Rome’s Prati neighborhood, provides a complete insight into Italian cuisine. Taste the very best of Rome, visiting five unforgettable venues. Begin your evening in typical Italian fashion with an aperitivo at La Nicchia Café. Tasting highlights include truffles, 30-year aged balsamic vinegar drizzled over Parmigano Reggiano, Genovese pesto, the freshest buffalo mozzarella and more treats. Enjoy free flowing fine wine.
Following aperitivo, prepare your taste buds for the famous Pizzarium, Rome’s number one pizzeria. The owner Gabriele Bonci, is described as the ‘Michelangelo of pizza,’ recommended by Anthony Bordain and countless food bloggers. Choose your toppings from over 50 daily imaginative variations, with the highest quality inseason ingredients. Popular choices include mortadella and crumbled pistachio, fig with prosciutto as well as roasted potatoes and mozzarella. Burrata and anchovies is Gabriele’s favorite.
La Tradizione* is the number one gourmet food shop in Rome, offering over 400 types of cheeses and 150 types of cured meats. Here you will taste the real ‘retro gusto’ and discover the importance of ‘what grows together, goes together’. Indulge in the best cheeses and cured meats Italy has to offer, with fine wine. Savor homemade pasta and tiramisu at the locally loved, family owned restaurant Al Giardino del Gatto e la Volpe. The wine offered is a D.O.C.G Vermentino. Throughout the tour receive essential food tips of the city, to ensure your enjoyment of Rome’s best foods, will not end with our tour. Your tour will last approximately 4 hours.
*Please note that La Tradizione is closed on Sundays.
Suggested Sightseeing
Rome, Lazio Region
On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.
As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.
Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.
Piazza Navona, Rome, Lazio Region
With its showy fountains, baroque palazzi and colourful cast of street artists, hawkers and tourists, Piazza Navona is central Rome’s elegant showcase square. Built over the 1st-century Stadio di Domiziano, it was paved over in the 15th century and for almost 300 years hosted the city's main market. Its grand centrepiece is Bernini’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, a flamboyant fountain featuring an Egyptian obelisk and muscular personifications of the rivers Nile, Ganges, Danube and Plate.
Sistine Chapel, Rome, Lazio Region
Named after Pope Sixtus IV, the Sistine Chapel is perhaps the most famous chapel in the world. It is renowned in both form - with its incredible artwork, and function - as the Papal Conclave. The ceiling and western wall of the Sistine Chapel are adorned with some of the most astonishing paintings in the world created by the famous artist – Michelangelo Buonarroti. Despite being one of the most cherished works of art in history, Michelangelo was originally hesitant to paint the ceiling of the chapel for he saw himself as more of a sculptor than a painter.
The middle section of the ceiling depicts 9 stories from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic ‘Creation of Adam’ where the hand ofGod is seen reaching to Adam to give him life. In 1535 Michelangelo was commissioned once again to paint the western wall over the altar. Michelangelo completed this spectacular painting of the ‘Last Judgment’ in 1541. The painting depicts the end-of-days and second coming of Christ when according to Christian faith all souls will be judged by Jesus, the Saints, and God and sent to heaven or hell.
Overnight Location
Rome, Lazio Region
On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.
As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.
Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.
Day 3
Accommodation
4-Star Baroque Historic Gem Hotel - Rome, Lazio Region
Room Type: Superior Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Included Unique Activities
The Best of Colosseum & Ancient Rome with Exclusive Arena Access
Rome, Lazio Region
Your Colosseum & Ancient Rome Experience, with our Exclusive Arena Access, begins at the legendary Colosseum. You and your semi-private group will pass through the Gladiator Gate and have priority access to the Colosseum arena floor. Just a quick stop for security, then skip the lines! Step out directly onto the same level where gladiators fought. This extraordinary perspective is only available to a limited number of visitors. Your guide will amaze you with tales of the ancient gladiators and performances.
From the restricted arena floor, you will be close enough to the Colosseum underground for a fascinating glimpse of the dungeons where spectacles were managed and coordinated. Next, your guide will lead you to the second floor. Enjoy the panoramic views from Caesar’s balcony, hear wild tales and anecdotes, and become aware of what it looked like thousands of years ago. During the tour, your guide will use visual aids to help recreate the ancient world. If you wish, you can download an app before the tour and then view VR reconstructions with a pair of goggles that will be provided by the guide.
After your tour inside the Colosseum, climb Palatine Hill for stunning views of Rome. This hilltop neighborhood was once home to the elite political figures who were the backbone of the Roman Empire. Learn about everyday ancient Roman life as you descend into the grand Roman Forum, the public center for Roman political life. Visit inspiring structures such as Julius Caesar’s Temple, the Temple of Antonio & Faustina, and the Basilica of Maxentius.
Suggested Sightseeing
Pantheon, Rome, Lazio Region
The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church dedicated to St. Mary of the Martyrs, in Rome. The stunning building is circular with a portico of large granite Corinthian columns, each weighing 60 tons, under a pediment. A rectangular vestibule links the portico to the rotunda, which is under a concrete dome with a central opening to the sky. Almost two thousand years after it was built, the Pantheon’s dome is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome, standing at 142 feet. Although it is a mystery how it managed to survive years of barbarian raids while the rest of Rome’s monuments crumbled, the Pantheon remains the best preserved Ancient Roman monument. The building is a remarkable sight to behold, and even Michelangelo commented that it looked more like a work of angels, not humans, when he first saw it.
Colosseum, Rome, Lazio Region
Situated just east of the Roman Forum, in Rome, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built and was completed in AD 80. In its time, the Colosseum could hold an estimated 80,000 spectators, with an average audience of 65,000, who were seated according to rank. It was used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, animal hunts, executions, reenactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Classical mythology. Although the Colosseum was badly damaged by earthquakes and stone-robbers in medieval times, it is still an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome and one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions.
Palatine Hill, Rome, Lazio Region
Located above the Roman Forum, the Palatine Hill is the most central of the seven hills of Rome and forms one of the oldest parts of the city. Considered to be the birthplace of the Italian capital and is believed to have been inhabited since the year 1000 B.C. During the Republican Period Roman citizens belonging to the upper class settled in the Palatine Hill and built sumptuous palaces, of which important traces are still preserved, you can see hundreds of ruins of the imposing buildings that were created. From Palatine Hill you can get the best views of the Roman Forum from above.
Overnight Location
Rome, Lazio Region
On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.
As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.
Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.
Day 4
Depart From
Rome, Lazio Region
On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.
As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.
Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.
2024
Available Dates
Dec
From $2,040 per person
2025 LOW SEASON
Available Dates
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jul, Aug, Nov, Dec
From $2,387 per person
2025 MID SEASON
Available Dates
Jun, Sep, Oct
From $2,520 per person
Your Price Includes
ACCOMMODATION
3-nights Superior 4-Star Hotel in Rome
TRANSPORTATION
Private Chauffeur Transfers upon Arrival and Departure
DINING OPTIONS INCLUDED
3 Gourmet Italian Breakfasts
Sunset Food Tour
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
Roman Golf Cart Photography Tour
VIP Vatican Museum Tour with Secret Room
Sunset Food Tour
Priority Access Colosseum Tour
POINTS OF INTEREST
The Eternal City's Most Picturesque Locations
The Sacred Sistine Chapel
Secret 'Cabinet of the Masks' Room
Grand Roman Forum and Ancient Ruins Palatine Hill
Prices Based On
All Taxes & Fees Included
Custom Priced Quote (Want to Add/Subtract Days? Let Us Know!)
Self-guided vacation package. Choose any date to begin your travels.
Prices are per person based on 2 people traveling together and sharing a room.
Traveling alone? No problem. Just ask us for a single supplement price.
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Jennifer, Gary and want to thank you so much for all you did in planning our trip to Ireland and Scotland. We had the time of our lives and will be forever grateful. Everything was beyond our expectations and we have decided we will definitely ask for your services the next time we decide to travel somewhere special!
"Exploring Italy with Friends"
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From my clients: "We had a fabulous trip. Hotels were amazing-tour guides were fantastic! Again you did an amazing job! Thanks a fantastic vacation! We all had a great time!"
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Ann Nelson
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I am a Travel Advisor who planned a Britain self drive trip for my clients. They were absolutely thrilled with the tours, hotels and activities that we planned with Authentic Vacations. As an agent, I also love working with a company that takes such good care of my clients from start to finish!
"Incredible time in Italy"
Oct 21, 2024
Kelly H.
AZ
My clients were thrilled with their Italy vacation:
"We had an incredible time and want to THANK YOU for setting us up with an amazing experience. For our first time to Europe we had little to no knowledge of how we travel or what we liked so most of this trip was a learning experience. We loved it all! Sorrento is not to be missed! Thank you Ellie for your expertise, once again!"
"50th Anniversary In Italy"
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Jim C.
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Communication was excellent before and during our trip. Although there was one day there was a snafu with scheduling, Authentic did make up for it - we would recommend Authentic Vacations to help plan your trip!
"An unforgettable honeymoon in Italy"
Oct 11, 2024
Kelly H.
AZ
From my clients: 9 Night Custom Italy
"An unforgettable honeymoon! We saw so many unique and unusual places that each was ranked at the top for various reasons. But, the Colosseum and history were fascinating. The architecture throughout the country leaves me speechless. The hotels and tours were amazing!
Thank you for a great experience and being so accommodating and honest with us. The idea of traveling abroad for the first time was a bit intimidating, but you armed us with invaluable information that made the trip easy and completely stress-free."
This is what keeps me returning to Ellie & Authentic!
"Family Chauffeur Tour in Ireland"
Oct 7, 2024
Paula M.
Arizona
My clients have been having a great time in Ireland. Jackie and John just turned 60, and George proposed to his girlfriend Grace at the Cliffs of Moher.It's been a big celebration tour! Their driver has been fantastic and deserves a special shout out. I'll have the full post trip debrief for you in the coming weeks, but just wanted to let you know the clients are happy.
"Amazing Group tour in Ireland"
Oct 1, 2024
Patricia Hand
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Another outstanding experience! Thank you, Michaela and Authentic Vacations. Our group of 11 had an amazing time exploring the beauty of the Emerald Isle! The accommodations were stellar properties and perfectly located in the middle of each destination. Unique experiences awaited us everywhere and I was thrilled to be able to be on this special tour.
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