What is the Best Tour to Experience the History and Culture of Rome?

For visitors to Rome, the list of attractions is overwhelming. Between the ancient ruins, Renaissance-era palaces and churches, and amazing shopping, visitors can easily spend a short or long weekend seeing the timeless beauty of Rome. With so many tourist draws and so little time, tourists may ask, what is the best tour to experience the history and culture of Rome?

Fortunately, there are a variety of options across the city. Depending on how much time you have left, your budget, and what level of detail you would like to go into, here’s a look at some of the best tours to experience the history and culture of Rome.

The Ancient Lands of Rome Walking Tour

The Ancient Lands of Rome Walking Tour is one of the most popular tours for history fans. It takes visitors through the Roman Forum, Campo de’ Fiori, Milan Square, Ara Pacis Museum and the Coliseum. The tour gives a comprehensive overview of Rome’s settlement, rule and eventual decline over 2,500 years ago.

Most tours last three to four hours and leave from either Rome Marriott Grand Hotel Flora or Piazza del Popolo. Because the tour covers so much ground and has a limited timeline, some visitors may want to consider taking multiple tours or even learning more through private tours.

Classical Rome Tour

The Classical Rome Tour is similar to the Ancient Lands of Rome tour, in that it covers most of the monuments and ruins in the Roman Forum. The main difference between the two tours is that this tour is much more focused on classical sculpture. That makes it a great choice for art-lovers and those interested in learning more about ancient Rome. Most tours last three to four hours and leave from either Piazza del Popolo or St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Colosseum Underground Tour

The Colosseum Underground Tour is an excellent option for visitors wanting to learn more about one of the most significant archeological wonders in the world, one that has become iconic by countless books, television shows and movies. The Colosseum was home to hundreds of performances over its history, and this tour takes visitors deep into its underground infrastructure, where they can learn all about the routines and preparation that went on before shows and how gladiators were housed and prepared for battle.

The tour also goes through part of the Roman Forum as well as other landmarks in the city center. Most tours last two hours and leave from either Palazzo Manfredi or Piazza di Santa Maria Liberatrice.

Vatican Museums Guided Tour

The Vatican Museums are one of the must-see spots for those looking to get an understanding of history, art and culture in Rome. The museum itself is an incredible structure with a wide variety of artifacts and artworks from throughout European history.

This tour takes visitors through the museum, which ranges from ancient artifacts to Renaissance masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael and other renowned artists. Most tours last two to three hours, and visitors get an up close look at classics like Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Tours leave from either Vatican City or Piazza del Popolo.

Rome Hops and Stops History and Beer in the Eternal City

For those wanting to learn about Rome in a different way, there’s always the option of visiting some of the Eternal City’s fun-filled breweries. Rome Hops and Stops History and Beer in the Eternal City is a great option for those looking for a leisurely way to explore the city. On this tour, visitors can learn about the city’s history while exploring local breweries that hold their special place in the city’s history.

Tours last five hours and include an educational component where you can learn about Roman beer-making techniques as well as tasting local beers crafted according to traditional brewing methods. Guests also get to explore other major landmarks throughout Rome while they enjoy an unpasteurized craft beer. This is a great way to explore the city with friends or family while engaging in the city’s fascinating brewing history. Tours leave from either Raphael Boutique Hotel or Piazza di Santa Maria Liberatrice.

Conclusion

With so many fantastic options for experiencing Roman culture and history firsthand, one could easily spend days exploring these attractions. Whichever tour you decide to take, you’re sure to have a memorable experience that you’ll cherish for years to come. For an amazing unique experience in Rome be sure to check out Rome Hops and Stops History & Beer in The Eternal City, which combines sightseeing & exploring local breweries such as Birra del Borgo & Open Baladin Rome while learning about Roman craft beer-making techniques & tasting local beers crafted according to traditional brewing methods.