We will be in Rome the end of June and would like to take a group tour of the Forum/Palatine Hill area. I've been to Rome several times but only toured these areas twice - once was with Angel Tours when they were first starting and were Irish, young, very good and very cheap (almost free). The other time I don't remember the name of the tour if they had one but it was just a group of young Americans and they did a fantastic job. Oh yes, there was one other just of the Colloseum and it was awful! Any RECENT experiences and prices would be appreciated. There will 3 of us - my husband, my 18 yr old granddaughter, neither who have been there before, and myself.
Thanks, Barb
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11852 posts
I think this is a part of Rome where an expert guide and a private tour are worth the splurge. When you hire a private guide you get personalization and focus on your tour needs. Francesca Caruso ([email protected]) is a Rick Steves recommendation, but is often booked with his tours. Her colleague, Sonia Tavoletta ([email protected]) is equally talented and I have toured with her as well and been equally happy. Going rate was €55.00 per hour last year. A 3 hour tour for three of you is an investment but probably will not cost any more than 3 reservations with Walks of Italy (who also do a great job, though I have not experienced them in the ancient Rome area).
I suggest you write to both of them about what you'd like to do and when and see what they say.
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
If you will be there on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday you can book an official tour of the forum for 5 euros. These tours are held a few times a day and are very good. You can find out more information at the official website:
http://www.coopculture.it/en/heritage.cfm?id=4
Donna
Posted by
74 posts
We used Through Eternity Tours for 2 tours in Rome in 2013 - Vatican Museums and the Colosseum/Roman Forum/Palatine Hill - and they were excellent. The group tours are small, usually 9-12 people. We liked them so much that we booked a tour with them in Florence for our upcoming trip in March.
Posted by
316 posts
Check out Walks Of Italy. We used them for several tours in many different cities in Italy including Rome. The afternoon tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum was great. We went to the very top level and the underground level of the Colosseum. Both are closed to the general public.
Posted by
Tampa, FL, USA
1054 posts
Don't forget the guy whose website you are using has an mobile app with a audio tour of the forum you can use for free.