Best Tours to Book in Rome in 2026
Rome is one of those cities that literally takes your breath away. All the history, the art, the piazzas, the gelato: it’s all next-level.
But let’s be honest: Rome can also be overwhelming, especially for first-timers.
There’s so much to see and do, and without the right plan, you can spend more time standing in lines than actually enjoying the city.
That’s where tours come in. Think of this as your best friend (we’re besties now!) giving you the inside scoop on the best tours in Rome in 2026. These are the experiences that will save you time, show you hidden gems, and make sure you get the most out of your trip without the overwhelm.
Why Tours Are Worth It in Rome
Rome is huge, and there’s so much history packed into every corner. Lines for the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery can be hours long, and navigating the city’s transport system while juggling tickets can be stressful. Tours give you skip-the-line access, insider knowledge, and local tips that make your experience smoother, richer, and more memorable.
Plus, in 2026, tours are getting even more personalized. Small groups, themed experiences, and expert guides mean you get more than just the standard tourist checklist: you get the stories, secrets, and local flavours that make Rome magical.
Top Rome Tours to Book in 2026
Here’s my curated list of tours that I personally recommend, along with links so you can secure your spot easily.
Let’s talk Art & History Tours:
1. Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Skip-the-Line Tour
Start with the classics. This tour lets you explore Rome’s most iconic landmarks with a knowledgeable guide who tells stories you won’t get from a guidebook. Skip-the-line access is essential in 2026 to avoid hours of waiting outside.
2. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Early Access Tour
Beat the crowds with early morning access and a guide who’ll take you straight to the masterpieces. You’ll learn the hidden meanings behind the art and visit the Sistine Chapel without the crush of midday visitors.
3. Borghese Gallery Guided Tour
Skip the line to see Bernini, Caravaggio, and other Renaissance masterpieces, then wander the gardens with your guide sharing stories of the art and the city’s history. In 2026, booking ahead is crucial for this popular museum. This is truly one of the most stunning galleries I have ever seen!
Let’s talk Food related Tours:
4. Trastevere Food & Wine Tour
Rome is a foodie city, and Trastevere is where locals go. This tour takes you through narrow streets, sampling pizza, pasta, wine, and gelato. Perfect for an afternoon or evening adventure.
5. Cooking Class
Cooking classes are my favourite ways to meet and connect with fellow travellers, whilst getting to know the local cuisine. I have done many in Rome, and these below are my two favourites
Now for Sightseeing Tours, I have a couple to recommend:
6. Vespa Tour
Experiencing Rome like a local is so important! Locals LOVE a vespa, and this is the Roman’s favourite way of transport because it avoids traffic and it makes moving around Rome so much easier. For a tourist, this is such a good experience because you will get to see your favourite monuments plus some special hidden gems that you might miss because they are slightly too far or out of the way.
7. Rome on a Golf Cart
Usually, I don’t recommend these types of tours however, if you can’t walk long distances or just don’t have much time to see all the monuments in Rome, a golf cart tour might be your best option.
Tips for Booking Rome Tours in 2026
Book Early: Colosseum and Vatican tours fill up months in advance, especially in peak season.
Small Groups: You’ll hear your guide, move faster, and have a more personal experience.
Timing Matters: Morning tours beat the crowds; evening tours show Rome at its magical, illuminated best.
Combine Attractions: Some tours cover multiple sites efficiently, perfect for maximizing your time.
Check Hotel Pickup Options: Some tours include transfers, which is convenient if your hotel is outside the historic center.
Why These Tours Will Make Your Rome Trip Unforgettable
Rome in 2026 is busier than ever, but it’s also more magical than ever.
The Colosseum, Vatican, piazzas, and hidden streets deserve to be experienced fully, and the right tours make that possible. You’ll skip lines, gain insider knowledge, eat like a local, and discover corners of the city that most tourists never see.
Combine these tours with my Rome Insider Guide, and you’ll have the perfect mix of planning and spontaneity, ensuring your first (or tenth, I don’t blame you) Rome trip feels effortless, local but mostly unforgettable.
truly hope you enjoyed this blogpost, and you found it useful! if you have any questions, leave them below!
lots of love,
your italian bestie xx
for full disclosure: this blogpost contains affiliate links with means I may earn a percentage from your booking.
