Discover Rome with a local historian on our 3-hour introductory tour. Designed to provide a perfect introduction to Rome for first-timers, or to reorient returning travelers to the Italian capital, this tour will offer a comprehensive look at the city’s history and culture, different neighborhoods, and most famous sites.

You will start your journey at the elegant and stately Piazza del Popolo—the “People’s Square”—where the three main streets of Rome’s historic center meet. You will explore the neighborhood most commonly known as Tridente, or “Trident,” and what remains of its imperial tombs and obelisks, medieval churches, and Renaissance palaces, including Palazzo Borghese. As you make your way to the Spanish Steps, you will discuss the history of this Roman icon, from its origins—ironically as much French as Spanish—to its present-day popularity.

At the Trevi Fountain, you will admire and discuss its creation and design, as well as what water represents to the city of Rome. You will end your tour with your expert by exploring the Pantheon, one of Italy’s greatest architectural wonders. Throughout your time together, you will learn about Rome’s different neighborhoods, fantastic sites, and general life and culture. Your expert will also be sure to provide you with top-notch recommendations, answer any questions you may have, and ensure you’re oriented before you part ways.

For a highly curated, first-hand look at more of Rome’s most famous sites, we recommend our Vatican and St Peter's Tour and Ancient Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Tour.

For more information about Context tours, please visit our FAQs.

You will meet in the Piazza del Popolo and end at the Pantheon. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map. If lines are very long at the Pantheon, your expert will ensure you are briefed and have tickets to explore on your own after the tour.

This is the ideal tour to take on your first day in the city. In addition to seeing and learning about some of Rome’s most famous sites, you’ll also become familiar with the city’s different neighborhoods and local life and culture. Don’t hesitate to ask your expert guide for recommendations for the rest of your time in Rome!

The Pantheon is considered a holy place. Men should wear long shorts or slacks, and women should wear long shorts, slacks or skirts below the knee. Shoulders must also be covered; plan to bring a shawl to wear if your top has them exposed. Shorts above the knee are discouraged for adults and teens.

It can be, yes! While we do have other tours in Rome that are designed especially with children in mind, if you book a private Introduction to Rome tour, we can assign you a family-friendly expert guide who will make it especially interesting for young minds.

 

Our guides have experience in giving tours to guests of all abilities, however, navigating the streets of Rome's city center can be quite challenging for wheelchair users because unfortunately the cobblestone streets were not designed to be wheelchair friendly.

Do you reserve headsets for this tour? 

Depending on your group size, we may be required by the venue to order headsets in which case you’ll see a “Headset Fee” added to your order.