Private guides vs tour companies

That's a pretty broad comparison that depends greatly on individual guides and companies. Some privates services can be quite a lot more expensive than a company tour and others may not be. You have to look at each individually plus reviews on both. Visitors want differing amounts of depth to their tours or may desire a specialty subject (i.e. history versus art) so whether one is 'better' than another is often up to personal preferences/interests.

There are companies - "Walks of Italy" comes to mind - which offer very highly rated small-group tours, and may be a better price value than a personal guide depending on just how good that guide is and whether you want a customized tour or are happy with a set agenda.

I agree overall with Kathy: each circumstance needs to be assessed. We've only done two truly private tours: Ancient Rome (Colosseo, Foro Romano & Palatino) and The Louvre. Both were outstanding and worth every nickel of personal attention.

Other tours we have done range from 8 (Tours by Roberto), a dozen or so (Walks of Italy) or even 35 (London Walks) and enjoyed them very much. London Walks only charges 10.00GBP, so a large group didn't bother us, but if I am going to pay 90 Euros, I want a small group/personal attention. Carefully study the tours and the credentials of the guides before deciding if it is a site that warrants a personal guide because it is so confusing, or can you take a group tour or even self-guide with an excellent guidebook or audio guide. Many museums now have fabulous audio guides that are better than a tour guide.

...or even self-guide with an excellent guidebook or audio guide.
Many museums now have fabulous audio guides that are better than a
tour guide.

Very true, Laurel. We do most of our exploring this way. We also read a lot before we go and even more when we get home. Having stood inside or in front of a thing helps contextually, if that makes sense.

I was also somewhat amazed when reading »even self-guide«. I love to follow my own interests and choosing my own pace. Based on guide books and other sources, I pick out the things which take my fancy. And those are not always the sights and sites which get a three-star treatment.