Private Circus Maximus and Aventine Keyhole Tour

Explore Rome’s Ancient Chariot-Racing Grounds and Hilltop Gardens for $337.43

The Private Circus Maximus and Aventine Keyhole Tour offers an engaging two-hour journey through some of Rome’s most iconic sites, guided by a professional who tailors the experience to your interests. Priced at $337.43 per person, this tour is best booked 22 days in advance, ensuring a personalized exploration that appeals especially to those captivated by ancient Roman history.

Starting from a central location in Rome, the tour begins with the remarkable Circus Maximus, where charioteers once raced before crowds of over 120,000 spectators—more than quadruple the capacity of the Colosseum. The tour then moves to the serene Aventine Hill, known for elegant houses, quiet streets, and historic churches, culminating at the Aventine Keyhole, offering a surprisingly stunning view of St. Peter’s Basilica through a tiny garden door.

While this tour provides a flexible, privately guided experience, keep in mind that it involves approximately 1.5 km of walking and does not include hotel pickup or meals. Its focus on history, architecture, and scenic viewpoints makes it perfect for visitors eager to explore Rome’s ancient sites without large group crowds.

Key Points

• Private, personalized tour of Rome’s historic sites with a professional guide
• Highlights include the Circus Maximus, Aventine Hill, St. Peter’s Keyhole, and orange garden
• Tour duration of approximately 2 hours with flexible itinerary
• Cost of $337.43 per person, booked 22 days in advance on average
• Includes group discounts and mobile tickets but excludes food and hotel transfers
• Best suited for those interested in ancient Roman architecture and historical views

Starting at the Spectacular Circus Maximus in Rome

This tour kicks off at Piazzale Ugo La Malfa, a central spot in Rome that’s accessible via public transportation. The first stop, Circus Maximus, is one of the largest ancient Roman entertainment venues, capable of holding at least 120,000 spectators. Here, the guide shares stories about chariot races and daily life in ancient Rome, bringing the site to life with visual aids, including an iPad.

The expansive ruins of the Circus Maximus are impressive, with plenty of space to imagine the vibrancy of ancient sporting events. Visitors can see the outline of the racing grounds and learn how this site dwarfed even the Colosseum in size. Despite the open-air setting, the tour’s brevity keeps the visit manageable, with about 20 minutes allocated to this stop, and no admission fee required.

Discovering the Architectural Charm of Basilica di Santa Sabina

Next, the tour moves to the Basilica di Santa Sabina, dating back to 425 AD. This church later became a fortified residence for noble families during the 10th century, adding layers of history to its walls. Today, it serves as a popular wedding venue, admired for its medieval architecture and art collections.

The 15-minute visit allows for a quick but meaningful look into early Christian religious architecture. The guide explains its significance in Roman history, and visitors enjoy a chance to appreciate the calm atmosphere and historic relics housed within.

The Unique Experience of the Buco della Serratura Viewpoint

The Buco della Serratura—or Lock’s Hole—offers a distinctive way to view St. Peter’s Dome. Expect a short 20-minute stop after waiting in a small line, but the reward is a humorous and unusual perspective of one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. The view through a tiny garden door is both charming and memorable, giving a fresh angle not seen from typical tourist spots.

This stop emphasizes the tour’s personal touch, allowing for a brief moment of curiosity and surprise, perfect for photos and lighthearted exploration.

The Artistic and Botanical Delights at Roseto Comunale

The Roseto Comunale, or Public Rose Garden, is the final highlight of the tour when the season permits. Visitors stroll among hundreds of different rose species from around the world, surrounded by fragrant blooms and stunning vistas of Rome. The 10-minute visit provides a peaceful break from city sights, and the garden’s setting offers excellent views of the cityscape.

This spot is especially appealing for those who appreciate nature’s beauty and would like a tranquil pause during their sightseeing.

The Iconic Aventine Keyhole Viewpoint

The Aventine Keyhole is the tour’s most famous sight—a tiny hole in a garden door that frames a perfect view of St. Peter’s Basilica. The guide leads you through quiet, elegant streets lined with pine trees and past historic churches like St. Alexius, Boniface, and Sabina.

Waiting in line for the Keyhole can take around 20 minutes, but many find that the charming view makes the effort worthwhile. The perspective through the hole offers a unique, almost secret glimpse of the basilica’s dome, with the surrounding greenery adding to the aesthetic.

Walking the Quiet Streets of Aventine Hill

The tour guides you along peaceful streets, revealing medieval churches containing art and relics that add layers of history to the experience. The walk is relaxed, with the guide sharing stories about the architecture and history of the neighborhood, making it a highlight for those who enjoy exploring less crowded areas rich in history.

The walk also includes scenic views, fragrant pine trees, and the chance to appreciate Aventine Hill’s elegance away from the bustling city center.

Final Stroll Through the Orange Garden (Savelli Park)

The tour concludes at the Orange Garden, also called Savelli Park, where rows of bitter orange trees line the landscape. Visitors stroll among these trees, enjoying gorgeous panoramic views of Rome and the Vatican.

The 10-minute concluding walk offers a relaxed, scenic ending to a compact but rich exploration of Rome’s ancient and scenic facets. It’s a peaceful spot to absorb the city’s beauty before the tour ends back at Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta.

Practicalities and Booking Tips for the Tour

This private tour includes a professional guide who personalizes the experience based on your interests. It is designed for ease, with most travelers able to participate, and no dress code required—just comfortable walking shoes.

The tour involves walking about 1.5 km, making it suitable for most physically able visitors. The meeting point is accessible via public transportation, and the tour does not include hotel pickup or meals. Mobile tickets are available, and discounts for groups are offered.

Booking at least 22 days in advance is recommended to ensure availability, especially for those eager to see the Keyhole or visit during peak seasons. While the tour offers great flexibility, it’s important to remember that admission to sites is free, so most of the experience is about the guidance and storytelling.

The Honest Perspective: Strengths and Limitations

The largest strength of this private tour is the personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, which enhances understanding and enjoyment of each site. The blend of ancient ruins, historic churches, scenic viewpoints, and quiet neighborhoods makes for a well-rounded experience. The scenic Orange Garden and Keyhole viewpoint stand out as memorable highlights.

However, some may find the timed queues at the Keyhole and short visit durations limiting if they prefer in-depth exploration. Visitors should also be aware that the tour does not include meals or transportation, so plan accordingly.

This tour particularly benefits those interested in Roman history, architecture, and scenic vistas, especially if they value private, flexible experiences over large group tours. It’s a solid option for travelers seeking a manageable, in-depth look at Rome’s historic hilltops and landmarks.

The Sum Up: A Personal, Scenic Dive into Rome’s Past

The Private Circus Maximus and Aventine Keyhole Tour offers an engaging look at ancient Roman entertainment, historic churches, scenic viewpoints, and quaint neighborhoods. The personal guide makes it easy to tailor the experience, and the combination of scenery, history, and hidden views makes it a worthwhile addition to any Rome visit.

While the tour’s 2-hour length keeps it manageable, the slow queues at the Keyhole and short site visits mean it’s best suited for those who appreciate guided storytelling and scenic surprises. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for history enthusiasts seeking a personalized and scenic exploration of Rome’s hilltop treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it starts at a designated meeting point and does not include hotel pickup or drop-off.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not part of the tour, so consider dining options before or after.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, covering several key sites with about 1.5 km of walking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended; there’s no dress code.

Can I see the Vatican or Colosseum on this tour?
No, this tour focuses on Circus Maximus, Aventine Hill, and scenic viewpoints like the Keyhole.

How do I book this tour?
It is best booked 22 days in advance through the provider, Raphael Tours & Events.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it is exclusive to your group, with a professional guide leading the way.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on personalized storytelling, scenic viewpoints, and hidden spots like the Keyhole provide a more intimate experience.

What time does the tour start?
The start time depends on your booking, but it begins at a central location in Rome, with flexible scheduling options.