Special Tours In Rome
Step off the beaten path with our special tours and discover Rome like a true insider. Gain exclusive access, expert insights, and behind-the-scenes experiences at iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and private collections. Perfect for travelers passionate about history, art, and culture—these tours turn your visit into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Exclusive Access TOURS
The VIP Key Master’s Tour: Open the Sistine Chapel
Just before sunrise over Rome, a small group gathers for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: accompanying the Vatican Museum’s Key Master to unlock the treasures of the Vatican. Step through the Pope’s palace as lights illuminate masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli, and more, all guided by an official Vatican guide who brings history and stories to life.
The highlight: the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. Guests are invited to turn the key themselves, just as cardinals and popes have for centuries, entering a nearly empty chapel to admire Michelangelo’s celestial figures in peace.
With only two small groups allowed at a time, this VIP access ensures the museum is entirely closed to the public, giving you a rare, intimate encounter with one of the world’s most revered spaces. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime Vatican experience few travelers ever get to enjoy. This highly exclusive, once in a lifetime experience needs to be booked well in advance. Availability is limited, so secure your spot now.
Alone in the Sistine Chapel: VIP Entry at the Vatican’s Most Exclusive Hours
Few travelers ever get to see the Vatican like this—nearly alone, free from crowds. Step inside at dawn before the doors open or after dark, when the museum is silent, and enjoy VIP access to some of the world’s most famous galleries.
For two unforgettable hours, it’s just you, your small group, and your expert guide, exploring the Raphael Rooms with their bold frescoes, the gilded Gallery of Maps, and the intricate sculptures and mosaics of the Gallery of the Candelabra.
Then comes the highlight: the Sistine Chapel. With almost no one else around, you can truly take in Michelangelo’s masterpiece, absorbing every detail and hidden story. Your guide will reveal the secrets behind the ceiling’s frescoes, so when you gaze at The Creation of Adam, you’ll understand its deeper meaning—an experience most travelers only dream of.
Don’t miss your chance to see the Sistine Chapel in peace—reserve your spot before it’s gone.
The Tomb of Saint Peter - The Scavi tour
Beneath the grandeur of Saint Peter’s Basilica lies one of Christianity’s most sacred sites—the tomb of Saint Peter himself. The Scavi Tour offers a rare opportunity to explore the Vatican’s ancient necropolis, an intricate maze of burial chambers and archaeological treasures hidden beneath the basilica.
Guided by an expert archaeologist, you’ll descend into the quiet, contemplative spaces where history and faith intersect. Walk among first-century ruins, see early Christian inscriptions, and get a close-up view of the site long revered as the final resting place of the first pope.
Because access is extremely limited, the Scavi Tour is an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience that few visitors ever get to witness—a must for anyone fascinated by history, archaeology, or the Vatican’s hidden secrets.
Access to the Scavi Tour is extremely limited, and tickets must be requested far in advance directly through the Vatican Scavi office. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for history and archaeology enthusiasts alike. Request your tickets here.
Hidden Rome & Archeological Wonders
Rome: Colosseum Arena Twilight Tour & Imperial Forum Visit
Experience the Colosseum like few ever do — after hours, bathed in golden light. This exclusive twilight tour gives you last-entry access, letting you step through the Gladiator’s Gate onto the Arena floor and explore the first and second tiers without the daytime crowds. Your guide brings ancient Rome to life with tales of emperors, epic battles, and everyday life.
Afterward, stroll down Via dei Fori Imperiali, pausing at scenic viewpoints over the Roman Forum, Caesar’s Forum, and Trajan’s Markets before ending at Trajan’s Column, beautifully lit for the evening.
Want more? Upgrade with a daytime tour of the Forum and Palatine Hill, or book a private guide for a fully tailored experience.
Cooler air, quieter streets, and glowing ruins make this one of the most unforgettable ways to see Ancient Rome. Book your visit here.
Domus Aurea Tour
Hidden beneath the modern streets of Rome lies one of the city’s most fascinating treasures: the Domus Aurea, Emperor Nero’s legendary Golden House. What was once an extravagant palace complex is now an archaeological site — but thanks to an immersive guided tour and virtual reality experience, you can see it as it must have looked nearly 2,000 years ago.
Walk through vast halls decorated with intricate frescoes and stunning vaults, then slip on the VR headset to watch the ruins transform before your eyes. Walls come alive with color, fountains flow again, and the golden ceilings sparkle just as they did in Nero’s day.
This tour is perfect for history lovers — and for anyone who wants to step back into Ancient Rome for an hour.. Book here.
Catacombs & Appian Way Tour
Once called the “Queen of Roads,” the Appian Way is one of the most evocative places in Rome. Walking its original stones, you’ll follow in the footsteps of Roman legions, emperors, and merchants. Along the way, visit the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, a towering reminder of Rome’s elite past, and see the ancient aqueducts that once supplied the city with fresh water.
The tour ends underground in the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, where early Christians once gathered in secret. With an expert guide and private transport, this experience takes you beyond the city center and deep into Rome’s history. Book your tour here.
Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Guided Tour
One of our favorite stops! Step into Rome’s most fascinating hidden treasures: San Clemente, a layered time capsule of over 2,000 years of history. On this guided tour, you’ll explore three levels beneath the 12th-century Basilica — from a forgotten 4th-century church to the remains of Roman houses and an ancient Mithraic temple with its original altar.
Hear the story of its discovery in 1860, when a flood led an Irish priest-archaeologist to uncover the hidden layers below. At the deepest level, see the underground spring that caused the flood — and ultimately revealed this incredible site.
Far from the crowds, San Clemente offers an unforgettable glimpse into the city’s pagan, Christian, and imperial past — all in one place. Book your visit here.
Crypts & Bones Tour
Beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini lies one of Rome’s most unforgettable stops — the Capuchin Crypt. Here, the bones of over 3,000 Capuchin friars have been carefully arranged into intricate patterns, forming chandeliers, arches, and entire wall decorations.
Far from being morbid, the crypt is meant as a meditation on life, death, and what comes after. A plaque inside reads: “What you are now, we once were; what we are now, you shall be.”
This small but powerful visit offers a unique perspective on Rome’s spiritual history — and leaves a lasting impression long after you step back into the sunlight. Book you visit here.
Art & History with a Twist
Borghese Gallery Tour & Tickets: With Bernini, Caravaggio, & Raphael
It’s no wonder Borghese Gallery tickets are so sought after — this elegant villa houses one of the world’s greatest collections of Renaissance and Baroque art. And unlike most museums, the works are displayed without ropes or barriers, just as they were meant to be seen.
Your guide will bring the collection to life, from Caravaggio’s haunting masterpieces to Canova’s daring statue of Pauline Bonaparte. The highlight is Bernini’s breathtaking sculptures — David mid-swing, Apollo and Daphne frozen in motion, and the Rape of Proserpina so detailed you can see the impression of fingers in marble.
This small-group tour is more than a gallery visit — it’s a rare, up-close experience with some of the most moving art ever created, in one of Rome’s most beautiful settings. Book your visit here.
Caravaggio: Art on Footsteps-Masterpieces in Rome’s Churches
Step into the dramatic world of Caravaggio on this guided walking tour through three of Rome’s most beautiful churches. Stand before his legendary Saint Matthew cycle at San Luigi dei Francesi, see one of his more intimate masterpieces at Sant’Agostino, and end at Santa Maria del Popolo, where his powerful depictions of Saint Peter and Saint Paul reveal the artist at his peak.
Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating stories of Caravaggio’s rebellious life and explain how his groundbreaking use of light and realism forever changed art history. This tour is the perfect introduction to one of Rome’s most brilliant — and controversial — artists. Book your visit here.
Rome: Michelangelo's masterpieces walking tour
Follow in the footsteps of Michelangelo Buonarroti on this 2.5-hour walking or running tour through Rome. Discover where the great master lived and worked, admire some of his most iconic creations, and uncover hidden corners of the city shaped by the genius of the Roman Renaissance.
Your guide, Isabella Calidonna — art historian, certified tour guide, and coach for FIDAL and CONI — will bring Michelangelo’s world to life with expert insights and fascinating stories.
Highlights include Palazzo Farnese, Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, Piazza del Campidoglio, San Pietro in Vincoli, and Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli — offering a deeper understanding of Michelangelo’s enduring impact on Rome.If Michelangelo is your favorite master, you won’t want to miss this tour. Book your visit here.
Castel Sant’Angelo Secret Passages Tour
This is more than just a visit to Castel Sant’Angelo — it’s your chance to walk the Passetto di Borgo, the legendary secret passageway that once allowed popes to escape from the Vatican in times of danger.
Your guided tour begins at Piazza della Città Leonina, where you’ll uncover the secrets of this historic corridor, recently reopened after careful restoration. Follow your expert guide through San Marco’s Bastion, hearing stories of intrigue, papal escapes, and the fascinating history hidden within these walls.
Then step inside Castel Sant’Angelo, Rome’s iconic fortress, which has been everything from a mausoleum to a papal residence. Explore its halls, climb to the terraces for sweeping views of the city, and discover the layers of history that make this site one of Rome’s most captivating landmarks. Book your adventure here.
Food & Lifestyle Experiences
Rome Food Tour: A Taste of Tradition
Experience Rome’s culinary heritage on a flavorful journey through the Jewish Quarter, Centro Storico, and Trastevere.
Begin in the historic Jewish Quarter, sampling classics like crispy fried artichokes and treats from a 200-year-old kosher bakery while learning how this community shaped Roman cuisine. Continue into the Centro Storico, pausing by ancient ruins before enjoying perfectly fried codfish with a glass of wine.
Next, visit a local craft beer shop to sample two Roman brews paired with Lazio cold cuts and cheeses, then cross the river into Trastevere for a taste of the iconic trapizzino.
For the finale, head to a secluded rooftop where you’ll craft your own Spritz and toast the sunset with breathtaking views of St. Peter’s Basilica.
You’ll end the evening satisfied, inspired, and with a deeper appreciation for the flavors and traditions that make Roman food unforgettable. Book your experience here.
Testaccio Food Tour: Eat Like a Local
Discover Rome’s true foodie heart in Testaccio, a neighborhood most visitors miss. This morning tour takes you through cafés, markets, and trattorias where locals eat every day.
Start with coffee and pastries at a busy neighborhood bar while learning how to order like an Italian. Then explore the lively Testaccio market, tasting fresh pizza, panini, cheeses, and prosciutto straight from the stalls.
Sit down for a leisurely lunch of pasta and wine at a family-run trattoria before ending with gelato at one of the city’s most beloved shops — complete with tips from the owner on the best flavor pairings.
Along the way, your guide will share the history of Testaccio’s landmarks, from Monte Testaccio to the old slaughterhouse, giving you a deeper connection to this vibrant Roman neighborhood.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to eat and drink like a local for the rest of your trip. Book your experience here.
Rome Pasta-Making Class in Trastevere
No trip to Italy is complete without pasta — and in this hands-on cooking class, you’ll learn to make it from scratch so you can recreate a taste of Rome at home.
Begin with a welcome prosecco and aperitivo in a modern cooking school in Trastevere, where you’ll meet your small group and explore the private kitchen and dining space. Then, under the guidance of a local chef, roll up your sleeves to make two classic pasta dishes, such as fettuccine all’amatriciana or ravioli with butter and sage, using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
As you cook, your chef will share time-honored tips for perfect pasta and pairing sauces like a true Roman. While your meal rests, watch as gelato is prepared before your eyes.
Finally, gather around the table with plenty of wine to enjoy the fruits of your labor, ending with dessert and good conversation — just like an Italian family meal. Book your experience here.
Unusual & Atmospheric
Rome by Vespa – Guided Tour: Drive or Ride as Passenger
See Rome like never before on a Vespa tour with Francesco, a knowledgeable guide with a degree in history and archaeology.
Ride past the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Castel Sant’Angelo, Janiculum Hill, and Trastevere as Francesco shares fascinating stories that bring the city’s history and culture to life.
Choose to drive your own Vespa or ride as a passenger with a professional driver. The tour starts and ends in Monti, near the Colosseum — the perfect base for your Roman adventure. Book your experience here.
Rome: City Golf Cart at Night Tour
Kick off your trip — and beat jet lag — with our favorite first-night activity: a guided golf cart tour of Rome under the stars.
Start on elegant Via dei Condotti, then see the Spanish Steps, the glowing Trevi Fountain, and panoramic city views from Pincio Terrace. Continue to Piazza del Popolo, admire the illuminated Castel Sant’Angelo, and peek through the famous Keyhole of the Knights of Malta for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica.
End the evening at Piazza Navona, Piazza del Campidoglio, and the spectacularly lit Colosseum — an unforgettable finale. Book your experience here.
Angels & Demons Mystery Tour
Follow the legendary Path of Illumination on this immersive Angels & Demons tour through Rome. Solve clues and uncover the hidden symbolism featured in Dan Brown’s bestselling novel and film — from the Altars of Science to secret messages in Bernini’s sculptures and Galileo’s writings.
But this tour isn’t just for Dan Brown fans. You’ll explore some of Rome’s most beautiful piazzas and lesser-known sites where pagan and Christian history meet. Step inside the so-called Church of Illumination and glimpse Il Passetto, the secret papal escape route to Castel Sant’Angelo.
Whether you’ve read the book or not, this tour offers a fascinating mix of mystery, history, and some of the Eternal City’s most iconic and hidden spots. Book your experience here.
Opera on the Rooftop: La Grande Bellezza
Experience an unforgettable evening of opera under the Roman sky on La Grande Bellezza rooftop—one of the most stunning terraces in the city. From the top of the historic Pamphilj Palace, enjoy a 360° view over Piazza Navona and the Eternal City, where scenes of the Oscar-winning The Great Beauty were filmed.
Delight in arias by Verdi, Puccini, Rossini, Bellini, and more in this exclusive, intimate setting. Your evening includes an Italian aperitif with wine or soft drinks, a selection of fine cheeses and cured meats, and a sparkling toast with the artists to close the night. Book your experience here.