Ruins of the baths Diocletian in Rome, Italy

When in Rome Tour: The Ins & Outs of The Eternal City

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Customizable Itinerary

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

Countries Visited

Italy, Vatican City

Places Visited

Rome

Suggested Duration

9 Days

Whether an artist or amateur archeologist, a lover of food or spirited adventurer, your custom tailored tour immerses you in the splendor of Rome, a city in which every step tells you another tale in time. The subterranean tunnels of the necropolis beneath the Vatican lead you to the tomb of St. Peter. The scent of roasted espresso emanates from charming cafes with tables set along cobblestone streets. Fountains crafted by Bernini come second only to palaces designed by Michelangelo. Ancient life...

Customizable Itinerary

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Trip Highlights

  • Venture deep into the foundations of St. Peter’s Basilica to witness the marvels of St. Peter’s tomb located in the necropolis beneath Vatican City
  • Enjoy in-depth tours of Roman neighborhoods for a culturally immersive experience that has you living like a Roman
  • Wander the preserved streets of Ancient Rome to witness the grand display of the Republic and Empire set in the ruins decorating the contemporary city
  • Explore the artistic treasures of the Vatican during a private tour of the Vatican Museums, home to the Pope’s private apartments, ancient artifacts, and works crafted by master artists
  • Discover classical artwork in one of the largest collections of Ancient Rome at the National Museum, spread across five locations
  • Visit the former bustling port of Ostia Antica for a view into the life and times of a preserved Roman city 
  • Experience the grandeur of the private art collection in the Villa Borghese, gathered over time through the efforts of Cardinal Scipione Borghese
  • Uncover the hidden gem of Bernini’s Ecstasy of St. Teresa inside the unassuming church of Santa Maria della Vittoria
  • Relish the classic beauty and elaborate décor of an emperor when visiting Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli 

Detailed Description

Rome has withstood the tests of time for 3,000 years and continues to captivate people from around the world with its consistent relevance. Your 9-day tour of Rome embraces the historic opulence of the Empire, the grandeur of the Republic, the artistry of the Renaissance, and the detail of the baroque. Walk along the tranquil cobblestone streets lining the Tiber River and immerse yourself in the largest collection of classical Roman art in the world. Discover mosaic advertisements of the ancient world and stroll alongside elaborate replicas of Greek statuary sought by emperors. Rome embodies the thrills of the past, which have inspired the contemporary world.

The journey begins with your arrival at Fiumicino Airport where your private transfer greets you at baggage claim. Settle into your luxurious accommodations in the heart of the historic city center inside a former aristocratic palace. Meet your guide in the lobby for an introductory tour of Rome, taking you along the narrow pathways to visit the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Gesu Church, and the Church of San Ignazio. The ancient wonders of Rome fill the next day with the exciting image of the iconic imperial city. Explore the depths of the Colosseum and the first settlements around Palatine Hill. Wander the Roman Forum and explore the stunning piazza and museum of Capitoline Hill.

The following day, you have a fabulous tour of the Villa Borghese to see the stunning galleries exhibiting renaissance and baroque artwork before venturing to Piazza del Popolo and Santa Maria del Popolo. Visit the Spanish Steps and explore the unique Capuchin Crypt. Your guide leads you through the neighborhood of Trastevere for a cultural tour of the streets once on the outskirts of the historic city center. You make your way to Vatican City to begin the first of a two-day exploration of the captivating independent country. Step beneath the foundations of the Vatican to visit the remarkable necropolis before touring St. Peter’s Basilica and the dome. Next, you continue your tour of Vatican City with an encompassing view of the Vatican Museums. 

In the afternoon, you wander through the historic grounds of Castel Sant’Angelo, erected as an imperial tomb but converted into a papal palace. Outside the main roads of Rome, you discover the charming town of Tivoli, which is still located in Rome’s metropolitan area. Follow in the footsteps of Roman aristocracy by visiting Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este. The next day, you traverse the National Museum of Rome, which contains an inspiring collection of classical Roman artwork spread across five palaces. Follow your artistic sensibilities to the Church of Santa Maria Vittoria. Then, you have a half-day tour of the port city of Ostia Antica before returning to the historic center of Rome to view the magnificent, historical, and artistic churches of the city. On the final day, your private transfer meets you at the hotel and escorts you to Fiumicino Airport for your flight home. 

Starting Price

$3,271 per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

  • Accommodations
  • In-country transportation
  • Some or all activities and tours
  • Expert trip planning
  • 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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