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Explore Rome's dark side on a 2-hour evening walking tour revealing true crime stories, scandals, and hauntings with expert guides for just $25.93.

The Rome Historical True Crime Tour offers a captivating journey into the city’s shadowy past, perfect for those fascinated by murder, betrayal, and hauntings. For $25.93 per person, this 2-hour walking experience takes place in the evening, starting at Campo de’ Fiori and ending at Ponte Sant’Angelo. The tour is designed for small groups of up to 15 people, which allows for personalized storytelling and interaction.
This tour stands out by focusing on lesser-known stories that reveal Rome’s dark side, from infamous figures to secret backstreets. The expert guide leads you through hidden spots and shares chilling tales that bring the city’s murderous history alive. While the tour covers a significant amount of ground in just a couple of hours, it is primarily suited for those comfortable with walking and eager to explore Rome’s fascinatingly sinister past.

Interested in history? Here are other past-focused experiences we've examined in Rome

The tour kicks off at Campo de’ Fiori, a lively and historic square in Rome. Here, the guide begins with one of the first stories, setting the tone for a night filled with murder, betrayal, and intrigue. This square, famous for its markets and vibrant atmosphere today, has a darker past that the guide reveals, offering a fascinating contrast between the lively present and Rome’s secret history.
The meeting point’s central location makes it easy to access via public transportation, and the free admission to this initial stop allows guests to settle in comfortably before the stories begin. The guide’s storytelling immediately captures attention, hinting at the dark tales that lie beneath Rome’s charming surface.

Next, the tour moves to Piazza Farnese, a stunning Renaissance square famous for the Palazzo Farnese. While the palazzo’s architecture is impressive, the guide sheds light on some of less-known darker episodes linked to this location. You learn about Rome’s secret history intertwined with this elegant square, revealing that behind its beautiful façade lie stories of power struggles and clandestine dealings.
This quick stop offers a glimpse into Rome’s complex history, combining artistic beauty with stories of dark deeds. The 5-minute visit is concise but packed with intriguing details, giving a richer understanding of the city’s hidden layers.
Vicolo delle Grotte, one of Rome’s less-visible backstreets, serves as the backdrop for tales of notorious swindlers and possibly magicians. Here, the guide recounts the story of a figure known for deception and cunning, whose legend persists in the alley’s whispers.
This 5-minute stop reveals how secrets and scams have long been part of Rome’s fabric. Its narrow alleyways and shadowy corners emphasize the mysterious ambiance, perfect for those intrigued by criminal schemes and urban legends. The spot’s hidden nature makes it a memorable part of the tour, especially for fans of dark stories behind everyday city sights.

At Ponte Sisto, the guide shares the story of a woman who held power in Rome after the suspicious deaths of her wealthy husbands. This 10-minute segment explores Romance and murder intertwined in a tale of ambition and betrayal beneath the bridge.
The story offers insight into Roman society’s darker side, illustrating how dark deeds could influence history. The location’s scenic setting enhances the storytelling, and learning about this powerful woman adds a compelling layer to Rome’s murderous past.
At Via Giulia, the focus shifts to a monastic order with a grisly task, potentially linked to criminal activities. This 10-minute stop highlights how religious institutions played roles in dark deeds, possibly benefiting illegal operations in Roman society.
The monks’ eerie task and their possible moral ambiguity make this stop particularly intriguing for those interested in the intersection of faith and crime. The quiet, historic street setting makes the story resonate more deeply, emphasizing Rome’s hidden history beyond its churches and art.

A visit to Via di Monserrato reveals the history of one of the world’s most infamous prisons and stories of the Borgia family, who ruled Rome like a mafia-like dynasty. Over 15 minutes, the guide details executions and political murders that shaped Rome’s dark reputation.
This stop underscores power, corruption, and violence that marked the Borgia era, with tales of family tragedies and executions. It offers a stark perspective on Rome’s brutal political history, making it essential for those fascinated by criminal dynasties and dark justice.

Now a quaint gelato shop, Via dei Banchi Vecchi was once home to a woman responsible for hundreds of deaths. The 10-minute story connects a modern, lively street with its bloodstained history, revealing a dark chapter of Roman crime.
This contrast between past and present makes the street especially memorable. The tale of murder and treachery linked to this location deepens the appreciation for Rome’s layered history beyond tourist sites.
The tour continues at Ponte del Banco di Santo Spirito, where the house of Rome’s most famous executioner stands. The guide recounts stories from his life and the long-lasting legacy of his work, spanning 10 minutes.
This stop offers insight into public executions and the justice system of old Rome. Its historical significance adds texture to the tour, emphasizing the brutality and spectacle that once characterized Roman punishment.
Finally, Castel Sant’Angelo serves as a powerful finale. Once a tomb, then a fortress and prison, it played a central role in Roman history of tragedy and violence. The guide shares the story of a tragic family executed at this spot, adding emotional weight to the visit.
The castle’s dramatic history and its role as an execution location highlight Rome’s capacity for dark episodes. Its central location makes it easy to reach after the tour and offers the perfect spot for reflection on Rome’s haunted past.
The Rome Historical True Crime Tour starts at 8:00 pm at Campo de’ Fiori and ends at Ponte Sant’Angelo. The mobile ticket ensures a smooth check-in, and the small group format allows for more personalized storytelling. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no specific health restrictions, and service animals are welcome.
Participants should plan to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking through historic streets. A rest stop at a cafe is included for refreshments, but guests are advised to bring protection against sun or rain. The expert guide provides insights into Rome’s dark history, making this experience ideal for history buffs and true crime enthusiasts.
The Rome Historical True Crime Tour offers an affordable, engaging way to explore Rome’s sinister past in just two hours. Its focus on dark stories, infamous figures, and secret locations makes it ideal for those interested in less touristy, more shadowy aspects of the Eternal City.
While the tour covers a lot of ground in a short time and walks through busy streets, the small group size and knowledgeable guide help keep the experience intimate and lively. It’s especially suited for night owls and history lovers eager to see Rome from a darker perspective. For a unique, story-driven exploration, this tour delivers memorable tales and insights into the city’s hidden history.
“Wear comfortable shoes. Be prepared to learn about little known ancient Rome history. Tour was comfortable for all walking levels.”
How long is the Rome True Crime Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Campo de’ Fiori and ends at Ponte Sant’Angelo.
What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $25.93 per person.
Is the tour suitable for all walking levels?
Yes, the tour is comfortable for most walking levels, but wearing comfortable shoes is recommended.
Are food and drinks included?
No, but a rest stop at a cafe is included during the tour.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.