Set out on a captivating journey through Rome’s storied past with the "Once Upon a Time the Romans" half-day small group tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this immersive experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to uncover the city’s hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of its rich Roman heritage. From marveling at Michelangelo’s architectural masterpieces to exploring the impressive 17th-century astronomical sundial, this tour promises to transport you back in time and leave you intrigued, eager to discover more about Rome’s enduring legacy.
Key Points
-
This half-day walking tour in Rome offers an intimate exploration of the city’s hidden gems and ancient Roman sites, including the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs.
-
Guided by a knowledgeable local, the tour provides access to the National Roman Museum – Palazzo Massimo alle Terme and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.
-
Visitors can discover the impressive 17th-century astronomical planetary sundial and admire Michelangelo’s architectural masterpieces, away from the typical tourist crowds.
-
The tour includes entrance tickets and gratuities, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for guests.
-
The tour duration is 3 hours and is available in both English and Italian, catering to diverse language preferences.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Details
The tour is a half-day walking experience that lasts 3 hours and is led by a live guide, available in English and Italian.
This small group tour offers an intimate and engaging way to explore Rome’s hidden gems away from the crowds.
Participants will start their journey at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs, then venture to the National Roman Museum – Palazzo Massimo alle Terme for a guided tour and photo opportunities.
The tour also includes a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, where guests can admire the planetary sundial built by 17th-century astronomers.
With the entrance tickets and gratuities included, this tour provides a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for travelers.
Itinerary
Starting at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs, the tour then takes participants to the National Roman Museum – Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and photo opportunities.
The group will then visit the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, where they’ll have another chance to explore and take photos.
The tour concludes back at the starting point, the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs.
The itinerary includes:
- Visiting the Terme di Diocleziano (Thermal Baths of Diocletian)
- Exploring the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli
- Discovering the planetary sundial built by 17th-century astronomers
Tour Highlights
Visitors can explore the Terme di Diocleziano (Thermal Baths of Diocletian), a remarkable ancient Roman structure that exemplifies the grandeur of Roman architecture. The tour also allows participants to discover the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, a beautiful church designed by Michelangelo. Plus, the group will have the opportunity to see the planetary sundial, an impressive 17th-century astronomical instrument built by skilled scientists.
| Tour Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Terme di Diocleziano | Explore the remarkable ancient Roman baths |
| Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli | Discover Michelangelo’s beautiful church |
| Planetary Sundial | See the impressive 17th-century astronomical instrument |
| Famous Art Treasures | Discover art away from crowds and traffic |
The tour also allows visitors to discover famous art treasures away from the crowds and traffic, providing a unique and immersive experience in the heart of Rome.
Inclusions
This tour’s inclusions cover the essentials, offering visitors entrance tickets to the museum and a 3-hour guided tour with a professional guide. Gratuities are also included, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
The tour includes:
- Entrance tickets to the National Roman Museum – Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
- A 3-hour guided tour with a knowledgeable local guide
- Gratuities, so you don’t have to worry about tipping
With these inclusions, travellers can enjoy the rich history and art of Rome, without the hassle of purchasing tickets or navigating the city on their own. This tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing guests to make the most of their time in the Eternal City.
Exclusions
While the tour includes entrance tickets and a guided experience, it doesn’t cover pickup or drop-off from hotels. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
| Exclusions | |
|---|---|
| Pickup from hotel | ❌ |
| Drop-off at hotel | ❌ |
| Suitable for mobility impaired | ❌ |
| Suitable for wheelchair users | ❌ |
This half-day small group tour in Rome focuses on the highlights of the Eternal City, allowing participants to explore the National Roman Museum, Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, and other key sites with the guidance of a professional. However, those with special mobility needs may find the walking and pace challenging.
Starting Location
The tour begins at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs, a 16th-century church designed by Michelangelo. This iconic landmark, located in the heart of Rome, serves as the starting point for the small group tour.
The basilica was originally part of the Baths of Diocletian, the largest thermal baths in ancient Rome, before being converted into a church.
Michelangelo’s design incorporates elements of the original Roman architecture, creating a unique blend of Renaissance and classical styles.
The church’s interior boasts stunning frescoes, sculptures, and a sundial that was built by 17th-century astronomers, adding to the rich history and cultural significance of the site.
Duration and Languages
The tour lasts 3 hours and is available in both English and Italian. Travelers can expect a live tour guide to lead them through the highlights of Rome’s ancient history and architecture.
The half-day walking tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the Terme di Diocleziano, the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, and the planetary sundial built by 17th-century astronomers.
With a focus on visiting famous art treasures away from the crowds and traffic, this small group tour offers a unique and personalized way to discover the city’s hidden gems.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, but it promises an engaging and informative journey through Rome’s rich cultural heritage.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel With St. Peters Basilica Access
- Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground OR Arena and Forum
- The Original Roman Crypts and Catacombs Tour With Transfers
- Tuscany Guided Day Trip From Rome With Lunch & Wine Tasting
- Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Small Group – 6 People Max
- Skip-the-Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peters | Small Group
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size for This Tour?
The tour is a small group experience, though the exact group size is not specified. The information indicates it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, suggesting a reasonably small group size.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is allowed during the tour. Guests can take photos at the National Roman Museum, Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, and other stops on the itinerary. The tour guide may provide guidance on the best photo opportunities.
Can We Stop for a Meal or Refreshments During the Tour?
The tour does not include any stops for meals or refreshments. However, participants are welcome to purchase snacks or drinks at their own expense before or after the scheduled activities.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Unfortunately, the tour duration is fixed at 3 hours and doesn’t offer an option to extend it. The itinerary and inclusions are pre-determined, so extending the tour length isn’t possible for this particular walking tour.
Are Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. The standard tour price applies to all participants regardless of age or student status. Discounts are not available for this particular tour.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- From Hanoi: Sapa – Cat Cat – Fanxipan Peak– Moana 3D2N
- Rome: Colosseum and Roman Forum Small Group Tour (10 People)
- Rome: Pantheon Limited-Time-offer Audioguide
- Rome: 2-In-1 Train & Bus From/To Castel Gandolfo
- Rome Pantheon Audio Guide (No Ticket)
- Rome: Video Tour Guides in ENG at Your Own Pace
- Rome: Pantheon Skip-The-Line Entry Ticket With Audioguide
- Rome: Pantheon Skip-the-Line Entry
- Rome: 2-In-1 Train & Bus Ticket To/From Valmontone Magicland
- Rome: Highlights App Guided Tour With Puzzles
- Rome: Luggage Storage Service Close to the Pantheon
- Rome: Luggage Storage Service Close to the Colosseum
- Luggage Storage Close to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Luggage Storage Near Roma Termini Station
- Luggage Storage Rome City Centre
Recap
This small group tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Rome’s hidden gems and discover its rich Roman heritage.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour takes you on a walking experience through stunning architectural and art treasures while avoiding the crowds and traffic of the city’s main tourist sites.
It’s an ideal way to delve deeper into Rome’s history and culture.