Rome: Enjoy Hidden Gems with Wine Tasting, Half Day Private Tour

Rome: Enjoy Hidden Gems with Wine Tasting, Half Day Private Tour

This private four- to five-hour tour offers a fresh way to explore Rome’s lesser-known sights. For $379.44 per person, you’ll visit a mix of historic churches, underground archaeological sites, beautiful parks, and iconic hills, all with the comfort of personalized attention. Led by an art historian, you’ll get insightful commentary that brings these sites to life, punctuated by a delicious Roman lunch with local wines. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free way to experience some of Rome’s quieter treasures.

What we really love about this experience is the combination of expert guidance and exclusive access to hidden corners most travelers never see—like the Case Romane del Celio and Villa Borghese gardens. Plus, the included lunch and wine make it feel like a culinary and cultural escape. The only caveat? The tour involves some walking and stairs, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate mobility.

This tour is ideal for those who want to see Rome beyond the typical tourist routes, enjoy engaging storytelling, and appreciate a taste of authentic local cuisine. It’s perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone who wants a personalized, relaxed sightseeing experience with a smaller group or private setting.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to hidden sites like Case Romane del Celio and the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano
• Expert guidance from a knowledgeable art historian providing context and stories
• Convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off included in the price
• Authentic Roman lunch paired with local wines enhances the experience
• Balanced itinerary mixing history, archaeology, scenic parks, and panoramic views
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical activity levels who enjoy in-depth cultural insights

Discovering Rome’s Hidden Corners: A Detailed Look at the Private Tour

Why Choose This Tour?

When exploring Rome, most visitors race through the highlights—The Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain. But this private tour takes you off the beaten path, highlighting lesser-known sites that reveal the city’s layered story. Guided by an art historian, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Roman history, art, and architecture, all while enjoying the intimacy of a private experience or a small group.

The Flexibility and Comfort of a Private Tour

One of the biggest perks is the hotel pickup and drop-off, which spares you the hassle of navigating public transport or crowded buses. This tour’s duration of about 4-5 hours strikes a balance—enough time to explore multiple sites without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to your private party, offering personalized attention and the chance to ask questions freely.

In-Depth Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano

You’ll begin at San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome’s oldest basilica and the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome. Built on the site of Constantine’s original church around 314 AD, this site offers incredible early Christian architecture and history. As the official seat of the Pope, it’s an important religious landmark with a fascinating backstory. Your guide will point out notable features and legends, making the visit far more engaging than just admiring the exterior.

Exploring Case Romane del Celio

Next, you’ll descend to the Case Romane del Celio, an archaeological complex with over four centuries of history. Discovered in 1887, this site reveals both pagan and Christian relics, providing a glimpse into ancient Roman life underground. The remarkable conservation of the rooms and high artistic value makes it a standout stop, especially for history and archaeology buffs.

Relaxing at Parco di Colle Oppio

From underground ruins, you’ll enjoy a walk through Parco di Colle Oppio, a peaceful park offering fantastic views of the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill. Here, you can see the ruins of Trajan’s Baths and Ludus Magnus, Rome’s largest gladiator school. The park’s tranquil setting contrasts nicely with the bustling city streets, giving you space to take photos and soak in the scenery.

Panoramic View at Parco Savello (Orange Garden)

The Orange Garden on Aventine Hill offers one of the best panoramic views of Rome. From the belvedere, you’ll see the Tiber winding through the city and St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance. This spot is perfect for a leisurely moment and some memorable photos.

Discovering Aventine Hill’s Charm

Aventine is a historic, elegant neighborhood that traces back to Rome’s legendary foundation story. You’ll learn about Remus and Romulus, and why this hill remains significant. Its quiet streets and historic buildings make it a lovely area to walk through, away from tourist crowds.

Visiting Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

One of Rome’s four major basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore is notable for its original early Christian structure and beautiful mosaics. Legend has it that it was built after a miraculous summer snowfall in 352 AD, marking its divine origins. Your guide will highlight the church’s art and architecture, adding context to its importance.

Inside Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

Michelangelo’s transformation of the Baths of Diocletian into a church is a highlight here. The meridian line on the floor, drawn in 1703, is a fascinating astronomical tool showing the time and seasons. The church’s imposing organ with 5,400 pipes can be awe-inspiring if you’re lucky enough to hear it in concert.

Strolling Through Villa Borghese Gardens

Finally, you’ll visit the Villa Borghese, a sprawling green oasis in the heart of Rome. Its neoclassical buildings, fountains, and statues make it a peaceful retreat. You’ll have time to enjoy the gardens, take photos of the views from the Pincian Hill, and appreciate why Romans and visitors alike love this park.

The Food and Wine Experience

No Roman adventure is complete without sampling authentic cuisine. Your tour includes a lunch at a traditional Roman cellar, where you’ll taste regional specialties paired with local wines. This casual meal offers both a culinary delight and insight into Roman food traditions, making the experience more memorable.

What Do Past Travelers Say?

One reviewer, Devon, shared that the private nature of the tour made it feel personal and relaxed, despite a language barrier at first. They appreciated the family-like atmosphere and thought the experience was a “pleasant surprise.” Meanwhile, Karim valued the compact timeframe—about 12 hours from cruise port to return—finding it a good way to maximize limited time in Rome.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers rich content and comfort, it does involve walking and some stairs—not ideal for travelers with mobility issues. The price reflects the personalized experience, expert guide, and included meals, making it a good value for those wanting quality over quantity.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits history and art lovers who want a more intimate look at Rome’s hidden treasures. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided storytelling and don’t mind a moderate amount of walking. If you’re traveling with family or a small group, the private setting enhances the experience. Budget-conscious travelers might see the price as justified by the exclusive access and expert guidance.

If you’re short on time but want to get a feel for Rome’s quieter, authentic sites with the added delight of local wine and food, this tour checks many boxes. It’s also ideal if you want a less crowded, more relaxed itinerary that balances history, scenery, and culinary flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation are part of the experience, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is the tour price?
It costs about $379.44 per person, which includes expert guidance, entrance tickets, lunch, and wine, offering good value for a private experience.

Are there any additional costs?
Tips are not included, and you might want to budget for extra souvenirs or additional drinks if you wish.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it’s best for travelers with moderate mobility and interested in history. Children sharing with adults may qualify for a child rate.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended, especially since you’ll be visiting churches and historic sites where modest dress is appropriate.

To sum it up, this private tour offers an engaging way to discover Rome’s hidden gems with the benefit of expert insights, exclusive access, and a taste of local cuisine. It’s tailored for travelers who value depth and authenticity over busy crowds, making it a wonderful choice for history lovers, culture seekers, and those wanting a relaxed, personalized exploration. With its mix of archaeology, scenic parks, and culinary delights, it promises a memorable Roman adventure suited to those who appreciate quality and storytelling.