Trajan's Market and Imperial Forums Private Guided Tour

Don't miss this 2.5-hour private tour, which includes a Forum Pass granting access to the archaeological sites of the Imperial Forums.

Tour Features

Local Guide

Certified Official Guide

Tour Languages

English, Italian, Spanish, French, German

Duration

2 hours and 30 minutes

Tour Size Options

Private

Itinerary

Explore the archaeological ruins of Trajan’s Market (Mercati di Traiano) in the Imperial Fora of Rome, built by Julius Caesar and his successors. Often considered the first version of a modern shopping center, it once housed an undercover market, small shops, and apartments. The remains are exceptionally well-preserved and offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman urban planning.
Visit the perfectly preserved, 29-meter-tall Trajan's Column (Colonna Traiana), crafted from Carrara marble and erected in honor of Roman Emperor Trajan's victory over the Dacians (modern-day Romania). Marvel at the frieze that spirals around the column, depicting key historical events from the battles. Your guide will highlight the main events and share captivating stories behind them.
A Forum was the heart of a Roman city, serving as a public space for the people. The Forum of Trajan was the last and largest of the Imperial Forums, forming the political and governmental center of the Roman Empire. The complex featured a grand basilica, two libraries, markets, and a large temple. Stroll through the ruins and admire the remarkable remains of this ancient hub.
The Forum of Nerva was the fourth and smallest of the Imperial Forums to be constructed. Discover how the project was initiated by Emperor Domitian but completed by his successor Nerva in 97 AD, giving the forum its name. This narrow space, once lined by colonnades, is still partially visible in the Temple of Minerva. Originally, the structure consisted of about 50 columns, but today, only two remain standing.
The Forum of Augustus was built by Rome’s first emperor, Octavian Augustus, and is home to the remains of the Temple of Mars Ultor (Mars the Avenger). Today, visitors can see the remnants of the temple, including the high podium and front steps, bases of columns, and three magnificent Corinthian columns crafted from white marble.

Tour Details

Full Description

Be amazed by the incredible ruins as you explore the heart of ancient Rome. Visit Trajan's Market, where you'll discover the well-preserved remains of the city's first shopping center. Marvel at the towering 29-meter Trajan's Column, dedicated to Roman Emperor Trajan’s victory over Romania, and admire the frieze that wraps around the column, depicting key historical battle scenes.

Next, head to the Forum of Trajan, the largest of the Imperial Forums, once the political and governmental center of the Roman Empire. Explore the Forum of Nerva, the smallest of the forums built by Emperor Domitian but completed by his successor, Nerva, whose name it bears. Admire the two columns that still stand today. Finally, visit the Forum of Augustus, constructed by Rome’s first emperor, housing the remains of the Temple of Mars Ultor.