Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo) Tours
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Rome’s Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo)—a massive arena for chariot races, games, religious ceremonies, and civic events—was the largest stadium in the Roman Empire. A major restoration in 2016 yielded a spruced-up archaeological site comprising arched walkways, ancient shops, a newly excavated cobbled road, and the Circus track’s oblong outline and starting gates.
The Basics
Measuring more than 2,000 feet (610 meters) long and 387 feet (188 meters) wide, and capable of holding an audience of 150,000, the Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo) was built on the plain between Aventine Hill and Palatine Hill in the sixth century BC. Five centuries later, Julius Caesar gave the venue its distinctive shape—especially suited to chariot racing. The stadium was enlarged repeatedly over the next several centuries, and Emperor Trajan completely rebuilt it in the early second century. Its last recorded use dates from the sixth century, after which the site fell into disuse and became a public park.
Today, as one of the most important sites dating from imperial Rome in Italy’s capital, the Circus Maximus is best visited as part of an Ancient Rome guided tour, which also includes skip-the-line access to the underground chambers and arena inside the Colosseum and the ruins of the Roman Forum. You can combine private Circus Maximus visits with an Aventine Keyhole tour, for the iconic view of St. Peter’s Basilica through the famous garden door.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Circus Maximus is a must-see for ancient history and architecture buffs, and all first-time visitors to Rome. Older children especially enjoy visiting this huge Roman circus and imagining it filled with thousands of cheering Roman spectators.
- Circus Maximus and combo tours are mostly outdoors, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. A hat and sunblock are particularly important in summer.
- The Circus Maximus is accessible to wheelchair users except for the Torre della Moletta (a watchtower located on the site dating from the Middle Ages) and the highest perimeter terrace.
How to Get There
The Circus Maximus is located between Via dei Cerchi and Via del Circo Massimo in central Rome. Take the metro’s Line B to Circo Massimo station, located directly in front of the archaeological site.
When to Get There
The Circus Maximus is open from Tuesday to Friday for guided tours, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm to the general public. As it’s an outdoor archaeological site, try to visit on clear days when the temperature is mild.
The Egyptian Flaminio Obelisk
The towering Flaminio Obelisk (Obelisco Flaminio) in the center of Rome’s Piazza del Popolo was built in Egypt in the 13th century BC. Emperor Augustus had it brought to Rome in 10 AD and placed as part of the central barrier in the Circus Maximus. Pope Sixtus V moved it to its current location in 1587.
Address: Via del Circo Massimo, Rome, Province of Rome 00186, Italy
Admission Tickets (1)
3 Hours Rome E-Bike Tour with Circus Maximus Virtual Reality
Explore Rome on your own with your compact electric pedal free E-bike.
Enjoy 3 hours bike rental and combine your City bike tour with a unique virtual reality experience at the CIRCUS MAXIMUS: discover the city using your personalised audio guide on selected itineraries.
Use your reserved ticket and relive the ancient splendours of the Circus Maximus in the imperial period of Rome through augmented and virtual reality.
The headsets available give a virtual rendering of the Circus Maximus by overlapping images of the past to the present-day reality to reconstruct its initial magnificence: in particular, the Arch of Titus will appear in its original majestic height.
The 40-minute walking itinerary is available in 7 languages (Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Russian and Chinese).
IMPORTANT: Rental is not allowed for children under 14 years
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From
$44.96
From
$44.96
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
376 Tours and Activities to Experience Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo)
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3 Hours Rome E-Bike Tour with Circus Maximus Virtual Reality
Explore Rome on your own with your compact electric pedal free E-bike.
Enjoy 3 hours bike rental and combine your City bike tour with a unique virtual reality experience at the CIRCUS MAXIMUS: discover the city using your personalised audio guide on selected itineraries.
Use your reserved ticket and relive the ancient splendours of the Circus Maximus in the imperial period of Rome through augmented and virtual reality.
The headsets available give a virtual rendering of the Circus Maximus by overlapping images of the past to the present-day reality to reconstruct its initial magnificence: in particular, the Arch of Titus will appear in its original majestic height.
The 40-minute walking itinerary is available in 7 languages (Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Russian and Chinese).
IMPORTANT: Rental is not allowed for children under 14 years
…More
From
$44.96
From
$44.96
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Circus Maximus Caracalla Bath and Aventine Hill Tour in Rome
Explore several of Ancient Rome’s most famous sites during this small group walking tour. Learn about historic bathing culture at the Baths of Caracalla, the second largest thermal bath of Rome, before visiting Circus Maximus, the stadium where chariot races were held. Climb one of the seven hills of Rome, Aventine Hill, for panoramic views over the city.
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From
$49.30
From
$49.30
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
Take a Rome hop-on hop-off tour by open-top bus, and spend time city sightseeing as you travel past attractions such as the Colosseum and Vatican City. Relax aboard the double-decker Rome tour bus, listen to the audio commentary and hop on and off at any of the stops. Select a sightseeing ticket that’s valid for 24 or 48 hours, or pick an upgrade option to include entry to the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Roman Forum and more.
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From
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From
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Circo Maximo virtual experience
This 40-minute walking itinerary, through continuous flashbacks to the past thanks to reconstructions in augmented and virtual reality, will enable you to see the life of the age-old valley unfold before your eyes, stroll through the Roman shops and watch a chariot race among shouts of encouragement and overturned chariots.
Relive the ancient splendours of the Circus Maximus in the Imperial Period of Rome through augmented and virtual reality!
The headsets available give a virtual rendering of the Circus Maximus by overlapping images of the past to the present-day reality to reconstruct its initial magnificence: in particular, the Arch of Titus will appear in its original majestic height.
…More
From
$36.82
From
$36.82
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Priority Entrance Colosseum & Imperial Rome Afternoon Tour
Indulge in all things Imperial Rome with this informative and entertaining 3-hour guided afternoon tour. Traverse the city on foot and by comfortable coach as you hit all the important sites related to the Roman Empire,including the Forum, Capitoline Hill, the Circus Maximus and a skip-the-line Colosseum tour. And bonus: pop into the Church of St. Peter in Chains to see some marvelous Michelangelo sculptures, including his masterpiece, 'Moses.'
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From
$76.90
From
$76.90
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Rome by Night Tour Including Dinner
See the Eternal City lit up at night on this evening tour of Rome with dinner. Begin at a restaurant near the Trevi Fountain for a traditional Italian meal, then take a walk around the area—part of Rome’s historical center—to enjoy the nighttime ambiance. Afterward, a panoramic coach tour takes you to see illuminated attractions, finishing at the Colosseum.
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From
$121.85
From
$121.85
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Sunday Farmer's Market Tour and Tasting in Rome
Explore a farmer’s market loved by locals on this 1.5-hour Sunday morning tour. While an early departure means you beat the crowds, the market’s size can be overwhelming to navigate. Going with a guide enables you to meet local vendors and taste the freshest products they have to offer. Don’t forget some cash: The market’s one-of-a-kind products make great snacks and souvenirs.
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$55.46
From
$55.46
Rome Segway Tour
Explore the landmarks of ancient Rome on a Segway tour with an experienced guide. On your own electric Segway, cruise by major Rome attractions like the Roman Forum, Colosseum, and Circus Maximus. Learn about the Eternal City’s 2,000-year-old ruins while you zoom along the streets, and stop by the Mouth of Truth, Rome’s legendary ‘lie detector.’ Limited to just eight people, this tour provides a small-group experience.
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From
$69.80
From
$69.80
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons
Rome by Golf Cart Private Tour
Experience over 2,500 years of history on a private tour through one of the world’s most popular and influential regions—Rome’s beautiful historical district. Roam the streets of this city in a comfortable, covered, street-legal golf cart—providing access unavailable on foot. This family-friendly sightseeing tour offers a narrated journey of the palaces, monuments, churches, fountains, and statues that define the rich heritage of the capital and largest city in Italy.
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From
$147.88
Price varies by group size
From
$147.88
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Face masks provided for travelers
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Rome by Vintage Vespa: Classic Rome Tour
Zip through the bustling streets of Rome as the Romans do — on a Vespa! Hang on for the ride as your private driver and guide whisks you around on a vintage scooter for an exciting half-day tour of Eternal City highlights. Wind through traffic circles and mazelike streets, easily hopping off for a closer look at Imperial monuments and baroque piazzas. Learn about the history of Rome, from ancient emperors to the modern metropolis, and get an insider’s glimpse at some of the city’s best-kept secrets.
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From
$138.01
$59.17 savings
From
$138.01
$59.17 savings
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Rome Vintage Fiat 500 Self-Drive Tour by Convoy
Explore Rome as if you were in a classic Italian film on this sightseeing tour by vintage Fiat 500. Following a knowledgeable guide, you’ll drive yourself through the Eternal City in your own Easter egg–colored Fiat, cruising down lanes that are often inaccessible to larger autos. See Roman landmarks like Circus Maximus, the Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine, and discover the Garden of the Oranges and other off-the-beaten-path sights, as well. Limited to just 10 people, this tour provides a small-group experience.
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From
$178.70
From
$178.70
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Golf Cart Around Imperial Rome
Give your feet a rest on Rome’s cobbled streets, and explore the city’s historical sites by golf cart, instead. On this 3-hour tour, you’ll see some of Rome’s top attractions and squares, including the Pantheon, Colosseum, Piazza Navona, Piazza Venezia, Circus Maximus, the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. You can get closer to the landmarks than you would in a regular vehicle but still enjoy comfortable transport around the city.
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From
$221.82
per group
From
$221.82
per group
VIP Tour of Rome, Colosseum & Vatican Museums, Driver & Private Tour Guide with Skip the LIne Tickets
Get the most out of visiting the top must-see sights of Rome on a private guided tour. You’ll skip the lines with priority tickets, leaving more time to learn about the history of some of Rome’s most impressive ancient sites from your guide. While you’ll be transported around Rome via comfortable vehicle, you will walk with your guide through each site, for a more intimate and close-up experience. Tours are fully customizable to suit your needs and interests.
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From
$1,072.12
per group
From
$1,072.12
per group
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
VIP Tour of Rome from Civitavecchia, Colosseum & Vatican Museums, Driver & Private Tour Guide with Skip the Line Tickets
Explore Rome—without the stress of planning—on a full-day shore excursion from the port of Civitavecchia. In addition to round-trip transport, the day’s itinerary includes private tours of the Vatican and Colosseum, as well as free time to explore. Unlike group trips offered by cruise companies, this private tour ensures a personal, customized experience.
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From
$1,419.64
per group
From
$1,419.64
per group
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Rome Small-Group Experience No More Than 8 Passengers Dock-Side Pick Up Included
Immerse yourself in Rome on this comprehensive all-day guided tour. The small-group excursion (with an eight-passenger minivan) allows you to enjoy the main attractions comfortably and easily. The itinerary includes visits to the Arch of Constantine, the Colosseum, Victor Emmanuel monument, Capitoline Hill, the Spanish Steps, the Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, and more.
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From
$164.31
From
$164.31
Taking safety measures
Vespa Tour By Night
Hop on a vintage Vespa for an evening tour of the Eternal City. First stop: Rome’s most iconic landmark, the Colosseum. After a brief stop for gelato and coffee (included), the tour continues with stops at the Mouth of the Truth, Circus Maximus , Palatine Hill, Saint Peter's Square, and the Trevi Fountain. An experienced guide does the driving so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views.
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From
$98.59
From
$98.59
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Civitavecchia Shore Excursion: Rome Private Tour with English Speaking Driver
Maximize your time at port with this full-day private shore excursion in Rome. Meet your English-speaking guide at Civitavecchia, and set off on a carefully curated day of sightseeing designed to match your interests. Imagine the age of gladiators and emperors with a visit to the Colosseum or Roman Forum, explore Baroque piazzas and fountains or admire the awe-inspiring art collection at the Vatican. Whether you want to see ancient highlights or hidden gems, your guide will help you make the most of your day in Rome.
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From
$123.24
From
$123.24
Taking safety measures
Rome in a Day Semi-Private Tour: Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Virtual Reality
See the highlights of the Vatican and Ancient Rome in one history- and art-filled day during this small-group walking tour that includes priority entry to some of the city’s most visited sites. With skip-the-line access to the Colosseum, you’ll jump the queue at this ancient amphitheater, and then visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Pass by the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon, and end your tour in Vatican City for skip-the-line admission to the Vatican Museums, home to the Sistine Chapel and other Renaissance masterpieces. Numbers are limited to just six people.
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From
$245.24
From
$245.24
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Private Shore Excursion: Full-Day Tour of Rome from Civitavecchia Port
Experience the Eternal City on a private full-day shore excursion while in port at Civitavecchia. Your private tour includes pick-up from the cruise port, transfers to Rome and the flexibility to customise your itinerary to your preferences. Discover the secrets of Ancient Rome with a visit to the Colosseum (not included), Roman Forum and Circus Maximus; admire monuments like the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps; or marvel over Renaissance masterpieces with a tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica (not included).
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From
$183.37
Price varies by group size
From
$183.37
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Regular temperature checks for staff
Civitavecchia Cruise Port Shore Excursion: Fullday Rome Including Skip-The-Line Vatican Museums and Colosseum
This full-day shore excursion to Rome hits the city’s celebrated historical landmarks like the Roman Colosseum, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Skip-the-line tickets to the Colosseum and Vatican Museums, lunch, and a licensed guide are included with the private tour option. This is a great way to see the highlights of Rome with limited time.
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From
$183.37
Price varies by group size
From
$183.37
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Regular temperature checks for staff
Rome Shore Excursion: Pre-Cruise Private Sightseeing Tour Including Civitavecchia Port Drop-Off
Kill a few hours before your cruise with this 3.5-hour private Rome tour. Led by your own private driver-guide, the tour takes in all the major, must-see landmarks including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and Colosseum. Hear the history of the city, enjoy several photo stops, and then finish with a drop-off at Civitavecchia Port in time for your onward cruise. Luggage can be taken on this tour.
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From
$177.45
Price varies by group size
From
$177.45
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Best of Rome by Golfcart private tour
Enjoy unobstructed, open-air views of the Eternal City on this attraction-packed, half-day ride in a golf cart. Cover Rome’s top sights in a single ride, from bustling, Baroque-era squares like Piazza del Popolo and Piazza Navona to ancient sites like the Colosseum and Circus Maximus. Carts come equipped with a heating system and glass doors, so year-round tours can run rain or shine.
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From
$141.96
Price varies by group size
From
$141.96
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Rome for First-Timers Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia Port
Ideally suited to cruise ship passengers, this action-packed sightseeing tour of the Eternal City covers the highlights of Rome in a single day. Enjoy VIP pickup from Civitavecchia Port and embark on a customizable itinerary based on your interests. Wander the ruins of ancient Rome, take in iconic landmarks like the Spanish Steps, and venture into the mysterious Catacombs. Upgrade to include monument entrance fees.
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From
$369.70
Price varies by group size
From
$369.70
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Rome Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus and Colosseum Tour | Skip-the-line tickets
Combine the convenience of a guided tour with the flexibility of independent travel on a 24- or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour of Rome. Along the way, enjoy a skip-the-line tour of the Colosseum and four optional walking tours, taking in sights such as Castel Sant’Angelo, Capitoline Hill, St. Peter Basilica, the Spanish steps, and the Pantheon.
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From
$85.04
From
$85.04
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Civitavecchia Shore Excursion: Fullday Rome with Vatican Museums and Colosseum
Benefit from personalized attention on this private tour of Rome, including skip-the-line tickets to the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, departing from the Civitavecchia port. Once you step off the ship, you’ll embark on a whirlwind tour of Rome that lets you hit all the highlights in a single day. Make the most of your time with your skip-the-line entry to the most popular attractions, which ensures you won’t spend hours standing around. Learn about the history and culture of Rome through your guide’s commentary, tailored to your private group’s interests.
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From
$183.37
Price varies by group size
From
$183.37
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Regular temperature checks for staff
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