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)
Attraction Tickets3 Hours Rome Hi Bike Tour with Circus Maximus Virtual Reality
Explore Rome on your own with your compact electric pedal free HI 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).
Grab an ice cream on the way back!!
... More
- 1 to 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$43.63
350 Tours and Activities to Experience Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo)
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Attraction Tickets3 Hours Rome Hi Bike Tour with Circus Maximus Virtual Reality
Explore Rome on your own with your compact electric pedal free HI 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).
Grab an ice cream on the way back!!
... More
- 1 to 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$43.63
Half-day ToursCircus 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.
... More
- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$47.84
Bus ToursRome 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.
... More
- 1 hour 40 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$27.56
City PackagesCirco 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
- 40 minutes
From
$35.73
Half-day ToursPriority 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.'
... More
- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$74.63
Half-day ToursRome 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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- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$67.74
Dining ExperiencesRome 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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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$118.26
Half-day ToursRome 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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- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$143.52
Price varies by group size
Bus ToursRome by Night Tour
Rome is magical at night. Find out just how incredible the Eternal City is at night with this 2-hour guided sightseeing tour of Rome. Criss-cross the Italian capital via comfortable coach and, in the Centro Storico by foot. See the sites of Ancient Rome and visit Vatican City. See the Colosseum illuminated. Stroll through romantic Piazza Navona and toss a coin or two in the Trevi Fountain for good luck and to ensure you'll return.
... More
- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$62.00
Half-day ToursRome 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.
... More
- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$158.82
$32.54 savings
Full-day ToursRome 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.
... More
- 9 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$159.47
Half-day ToursRome 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.
... More
- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$173.43
Half-day ToursBest 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.
... More
- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$132.04
Price varies by group size
Half-day ToursVespa 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.
... More
- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$76.55
$19.14 savings
Half-day ToursSegway Tour of Ancient Rome
See the best of Rome in a 3.5-hour small-group tour by Segway. Explore the highlights of the Eternal City with ease on a Segway, including the Roman Forum, Circus Maximus and the famous Colosseum, along with some unexpected attractions along the way. See the Palatine Hill, Roman Forum and Colosseum with a self-guided tour at your own pace.
... More
- 3 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$47.84
Bus ToursWalking & Panoramic Rome by Night Tour
See the famous sights of the Eternal City on an evening tour of Rome. Walk and cruise through the city by coach, admiring landmarks like the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Castel Sant’Angelo beautifully illuminated after dark. To enhance your experience, you may upgrade your tour when booking to include a traditional Italian dinner at a local restaurant near the Trevi Fountain.
... More
- 2 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$65.44
Full-day ToursPrivate 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).
... More
- 9 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$177.96
Price varies by group size
City PackagesSecrets of Rome Tour
Rome is one of the world’s most visited cities, seeing millions of visitors every year, but most just visit the main highlights and miss many places that make the city so special. On this off-the-beath-track tour discover the ‘Eternal City’s’ rich history, visit lesser-known monuments, like the Pyramid of Rome and ‘Mouth of Truth,’ and get insider tips on great places to explore outside the city center.
... More
- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$3.43
Price varies by group size
Half-day ToursRome by Night Private Tour
On this half-day, guided evening tour, you’ll beat the rush of the daytime crowds and discover a more intimate side to the Eternal City. See Rome’s top monuments illuminated at night, from Baroque-era Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps to ancient sites like the Colosseum and Pantheon. Tours include comfortable, air-conditioned transfers in a private vehicle.
... More
- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$157.87
Price varies by group size
Day TripsRome Highlights Private Tour from Rome
The ideal introduction for first-time visitors to the Eternal City, this full-day, private tour covers the highlights of Rome in a single day of sightseeing. Travel between locations in a comfortable, WIFI-equipped private vehicle, covering more attractions than you would by public transportation. Tours include stops at the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, Pantheon, and the Vatican Museums, with skip-the-line admission tickets included.
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- 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$605.97
per group
Half-day ToursGolf Cart Tour admiring the beauty of Rome!
We will explore the city by driving through some of the most beautiful sites in Rome with a large, eco and comfortable Golf Cart!
We can stop at each site and admire its beauty, take photos (we are also excellent photographers), visit monuments, fountains and admire the panorama of this wonderful city.
During the tour we will take you to enjoy coffee or ice cream (at your expense).
We will spend 3 hours together and we are sure that we will have fun !!!
... More
- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$91.85
$22.97 savings
Price varies by group size
Port Transfers 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.
... More
- 3 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$172.22
Price varies by group size
From
$172.22
Price varies by group size
- 3 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
Full-day ToursCivitavecchia 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.
... More
- 9 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$119.60
Full-day ToursCivitavecchia 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.
... More
- 10 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$177.96
Price varies by group size
Day TripsRome Private Full Day Tour with Private Minivan and English-speaking driver
Get an insider's look at Rome on this full-day guided walking and driving tour of the Eternal City. Learn the cities secrets and see some hidden gems as the professional guide leads you around this bustling town, starting off at the Colosseum before heading to the Circus Maximus.
... More
- 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$444.45
Price varies by group size
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