Secret Rome Walk
Unravel the secrets of this ancient city on a private walking tour as you set off from your centrally located hotel with your knowledgeable guide. Start your exploration in Trastevere, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, and stroll across the bustling public square to walk between historic churches and other stately buildings. Saunter across the old Roman bridges that stand over the serene Tiber river as a link to Tiber Island. Amble on to the ancient Jewish quarter of town as you listen to riveting facts and legends about the locality. Walk past the synagogue to the Piazza Delle Cinque Scole, which is a hub of Jewish culture and dotted with kosher eateries. Get a good look at the imposing Porticus Octaviae, which served as a fish market till the end of the 19th-century before stopping to admire the bronze turtles adorning the fountain at Mattei Square. Wind down this fascinating tour with a visit to Teatro Marcello, a theatre that dates back to the Roman Empire. (Half Day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Moderate. Please wear comfortable shoes and bring along a light raincoat or umbrella depending on the weather.)
Treasures of Ancient Rome
Marvel at the Colosseum – a symbol of the mighty Roman Empire, which was witness to brutal games between gladiators and wild animals, centuries ago. Accompanied by your expert historian, learn about the Colosseum’s fine engineering, which is a testament to the advanced technology of the Romans. Admiring the majestic architecture, see 80 entrances built for easy access, and a sophisticated system of aqueducts and water fountains to serve the spectators. Observe the carved Tuscan, Ionian, and Corinthian columns that adorn the multiple stories. Exploring various features including the Arena Floor, get a sense of how swords clashed, crowds cheered, and emperors entertained. Walk under the Arch of Constantine, and stroll about the expansive Roman Forum, where modern democracy is believed to have taken shape. Finally, head to Palatine Hill, one among Rome’s seven hills, a site of ancient legends, considered to be the birthplace of its founders Romulus and Remus. Standing amid wildflowers of the Farnese Gardens, enjoy panoramic vistas of surrounding landmark ruins, and the Tiber river beyond. (Half Day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes. Please note that pick-up & drop-off will be at a centrally located hotel. SKIP-THE-LINE tickets included for this tour).
Be a Roman Gladiator
Step into the shoes of a gladiator in this fun activity that is held at the Gladiator School of Rome. Get picked up from your hotel as you head to the school situated on the historic Appian Way near the iconic Colosseum. Begin your transformation into a gladiator as you don the costume comprising of a tunic, traditional belt, and leather gloves. Feel the adrenaline rush as you grasp the rudis or training sword and step into the arena. Learn the nuances of gladiator fighting from experts who belong to the Historic Group of Rome that specializes in reenactments of ancient Roman life and gladiator fights. Unleash your imagination and set loose the gladiator within as you fight off make-believe lions and opponents. Return to your hotel with a certificate of accomplishment as a souvenir of your unique experience! (Half Day; Private Transfer & Activity; Fitness Level: Easy; Ideal for families with young children.)
Explore Rome on your own
Discover the numerous attractions of this ancient city at your own pace in this self-guided activity. You could start off your day at the Colosseum, the ancient amphitheater where emperors once hosted gladiator fights. Afterward, you can make your way to the archeological site of Palatine Hill that is the center of Rome’s original seven hills. Stop by the magnificent Pantheon built as a Roman temple that now serves as a church. Amble around the city’s sprawling iconic public squares such as Piazza de Popolo, Piazza di Spagna, and Piazza Navona to name a few. Take a break for lunch at one of the cafes and bistros that can be found around the squares. Why don’t you top off your meal with gelato, the quintessential Italian sweet treat as you stroll by the gently flowing Tiber river? Escape the afternoon sun as you duck into one of the excellent museums that can be found around the city. Or, make your way to the famous shopping street of Via Condotti with its exclusive boutiques. Amble on to the end of the street where you can throw a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain before heading on to the Spanish Steps with its sloping staircase and the elegant Barcaccia fountain. Wind up your day at Trastevere with its funky, bohemian vibe as you relish dinner and a drink at one of the quaint trattorias or craft beer pubs. (Full Day; Self-guided Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included).
