Considering Booking Private Tours in Rome? Here is all you need to know
As a tour guide in Rome, I meet many travellers on various types of trips: Honeymooners, business travellers, retirees and empty nesters, students, solo travellers and families with small children. Inevitably there are some common things that people want to know. Specifically regarding private tours of Rome, for instance.
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Who should book private tours in Rome?
Individuals, couples or small groups
If your budget can afford it, private tours are hands down the best way to experience Rome. Private tours include individual attention, can be set at a pace that works for you and can be modified to meet your needs.
People with special needs or physical challenges
Does anyone in your group of travellers have a special need? For instance, uses a wheelchair or mobility scooter? You should absolutely consider booking private tours of Rome. Many of the museums and archaeological sites have defined itineraries for individuals who will need to use elevators and wheel chair movers. These itineraries do not usually coincide with a group tour itinerary.
In a city like Rome, the museums for the most part are housed in buildings that were built 400 to 600 years ago. Some of the archeological sites date back to the first century BC. Therefore, these structures were never built with accessibility in mind. A private guide is a huge help in navigating sometimes very tough conditions.
Anyone in your group hearing impaired? There are many guides that are licensed and qualified in American Sign Language. Most importantly,, these guides can give a tour while speaking to the members in your party and using sign language as well.
Besides, free admission exists for those with disabilities to most of the archeological sites and museums.
People who are looking for individualized attention or specialized knowledge
Are you looking for an expert in a certain field? Do you work in a specific industry like architecture? You might like to have your tour geared toward your interests. With a private tour of Rome you can ask for this kind of focus. Many agencies can even provide a guide that specializes in a your field of interest.
People who hate shuffling around in groups
Do you feel distinctly uncool following your tour guides flag around in a group setting? If you don’t want to be close to other people you don’t know, then a private tour is what you should be looking at.
Families with small children
Some families have the group tour down. The children are prepared mentally and physically for a 3 hour tour. If this is your family, then absolutely go ahead and book a group tour if that is what is in the budget. In contrast, if you have children that require frequent restroom breaks, are not keen on walking long distances, generally need breaks fairly frequently or might need a modified itinerary for whatever reason, your family should consider a private tour of Rome.
In a private tour scenario, the tour guide has the ability to modify the itinerary when needed. The guide may use a more accessible vocabulary for children and may have props or other visual aids to maintain their attention. Above all, you have the added bonus that if you have the all out melt down you are not responsible for disturbing an entire group.
What can I expect on private tours of Rome?
With a private tour of Rome you can expect to spend as little as a few hours up to several days with your guide depending on your preference or needs. Some companies offer organized private tours with a fixed itinerary. Others offer the option of customizing the tour with special requests or locations. On a private tour you can expect your guides undivided attention.
What type of private tours should I book?
1. The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica
2. Ancient Rome tour with Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
3. Ancient Rome and major squares tour including Colosseum and the major squares and piazzas including Trevi fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona
4. Ancient Rome and Jewish ghetto which focuses on the oldest parts of Rome and the historic Jewish ghetto
5. The Borghese Gallery, one of my personal favourites with a cornucopia of some of the best Baroque and Renaissance artwork in the city.
6. A private food tour where you sample the culinary delights of the Eternal City
7. A private, pasta making, gelato making or pizza making class. These classes are a hit with young and mature travellers alike.
8. Tivoli, including Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este.
Are there customized or luxury private tours?
Don’t want to think or plan anything for your trip? Would you like to have a driver take you around the city to see the most amazing sites with a qualified professional guide to explain everything? Even more reason a customized or luxury private tour is what you are looking for in Rome. If you are interested in this type of service please feel free to contact me.
This type of service requires a little extra planning especially if there are special requests involved. The sooner you know your travelling dates the better. Start the planning process early for your private tour in Rome.
