The ORIGINAL Fiat 500 Tour of Rome’s 7 Hidden Gems

Exploring Rome becomes even more memorable when traveling in a vintage open-roof Fiat 500. This 3-hour tour costs $197.69 per person, and it takes you through 7 lesser-known yet extraordinary sites across the city. Guided by knowledgeable local chauffeurs, visitors enjoy a lively and personalized experience, with free photo shoots and light refreshments included. The tour is highly praised for its combination of authenticity, comfort, and fun, with a perfect size for small groups or couples.

While the tour covers some of Rome’s most iconic sights, it emphasizes off-the-beaten-path locations that reveal a more genuine side of the Eternal City. The only consideration is that the maximum group size of 20 ensures an intimate atmosphere, but back seat safety belts and airbags are not available. This experience suits visitors eager for a stylish, engaging, and thoroughly customized way to see Rome’s hidden treasures.

Key Points

• Vintage Fiat 500 provides a unique way to explore Rome in style and comfort.
• The 3-hour tour visits 7 distinct sites, including famous landmarks and secret spots.
• Tour price of $197.69 is complemented by free photos and small group size.
• Guides are knowledgeable, creating a personalized and engaging experience.
• Stops include Caracalla Baths, Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, Parco Savello, and the Colosseum.
• The itinerary combines sightseeing, tasting, and stunning views with light refreshments.

Discovering Rome in Style in a Vintage Fiat 500

This tour starts at Via Labicana, 125, where guests gather to begin their 3-hour journey through some of Rome’s hidden corners. The vintage Fiat 500 with its open roof makes for a romantic and fun drive, especially in good weather. With most bookings made 37 days in advance, this experience is popular among travelers seeking a stylish and authentic way to see Rome.

The light refreshments provided keep the journey lively, while the personal chauffeur doubles as a paparazzo, snapping photos of guests against the city’s scenic backdrops. The mobile ticket system streamlines entry, making the start smooth and straightforward.

Exploring the Ruins of Caracalla Baths

One of the tour’s first stops is at Caracalla, an enormous ancient Roman baths complex covering 15 football pitches. Visitors learn about this sophisticated health center that included hot and cold baths, libraries, gyms, a theatre, and gardens. Built during Roman times, the baths exemplify how Roman emperors wowed their people with vast engineering feats. Entry is free, making this a perfect introduction to Rome’s ancient marvels.

While the baths no longer function as they once did, the scale and grandeur of the site leave a lasting impression. The 20-minute stop allows enough time to appreciate the size and history of this impressive site.

The Secret of the Keyhole View at Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta

Next, the tour visits Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, famed for its famous keyhole view. This hidden spot offers an extraordinary sightline where three countries appear aligned through a single keyhole in the gate. The view is framed by the Palace of Knights of Malta, making for countless photo opportunities.

Guests spend about 20 minutes here, enjoying the breathtaking perspective and the chance to capture memorable selfies. The free admission and unique vantage point make this a highlight, especially for those keen on discovering less touristy aspects of Rome.

Panoramic Views from Parco Savello / Garden of the Oranges

Parco Savello, also called Garden of the Oranges, offers a spectacular panoramic view of Rome. From this romantic spot, visitors see St. Peter’s Basilica with an optical illusion that makes it look like it’s floating. The garden, nicknamed the Garden of Lovers, is regarded as one of the most romantic areas in the city.

The 20-minute stop provides a perfect moment to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. The views of the city’s rooftops and landmarks create a memorable backdrop for photos, adding a dreamlike quality to the experience.

Cruising the Narrow Streets of Trastevere

Traveling through Trastevere in a tiny Fiat 500 is a highlight of the tour. The narrow cobblestone streets are perfect for the compact vintage car, offering an intimate view of one of Rome’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Guests enjoy the buzz of local life and onlookers who often wave or take pictures, making this a lively part of the journey.

This 20-minute drive through Trastevere showcases authentic Roman life, away from the more tourist-heavy areas. The small size of the Fiat allows it to navigate tight streets that larger vehicles cannot access, providing a unique perspective of Rome’s charming alleyways.

Panoramic Vista at Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi

Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi offers what many consider the best panoramic view of Rome. From this terrace, visitors see iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Altare della Patria with church domes sprawling across the skyline. The 20-minute stop is ideal for taking in the cityscape and capturing spectacular photos.

This viewpoint provides a rundown of Rome’s historic center, making it a must-see for those who want a broad sense of the city’s layout in just a short time.

Echoes of Chariot Races at Circus Maximus

The Circo Massimo was once the largest chariot racing stadium in ancient Rome, built 400 years before the Colosseum. Visitors learn about the thrilling chariot races that drew up to 250,000 spectators, and how the space has been used in modern times for rock concerts, with bands like The Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen performing there.

The 20-minute stop allows guests to stand on the ancient ground and imagine the excitement of Roman chariot races, making it a fascinating blend of ancient and modern uses.

The Egyptian Pyramid and Porta San Paolo

One of the tour’s more unusual stops is at Porta San Paolo, home to Rome’s fourth largest pyramid. Built in 18 BCE as the tomb of Gaius Cestius, this Egyptian-style monument highlights the diversity of Roman architecture and history.

The 20-minute visit provides a chance to see this rare structure and learn about Rome’s eclectic past. It’s a compelling stop for those interested in lesser-known historical facts.

The Colosseum and Its Ancient Spectacles

No visit to Rome is complete without seeing the Colosseum. This iconic amphitheater, built around 80 CE, once hosted gladiator fights, executions, and naval battles. Over 500 years, approximately 250,000 people lost their lives inside its walls.

The tour offers a 20-minute drive around the Colosseum rather than a full visit, which keeps the experience dynamic and engaging. Guests appreciate the ability to see this world-famous landmark in the context of the city’s broader history.

Discovering the Hill of Broken Vases

Via Galvani unveils the hill of broken vases, an artificial mound created from millions of terracotta fragments used to transport goods like olive oil, fish sauce, and wine. Over centuries, this discarded material accumulated into a 40-meter-high mound covering 700 meters in circumference.

This unique site offers insight into Roman trade and waste disposal practices from ancient times. The 20-minute stop invites guests to wander around and appreciate how everyday life contributed to Rome’s landscape.

Practical Details and Group Dynamics

This small-group tour, limited to 20 participants, features a driver/guide who is often multi-lingual, enhancing the personalized experience. The meet-up point is at Via Labicana, with the tour ending back at the same location. Group size ensures an intimate atmosphere, ideal for photos and questions.

A minimum of 2 people is required to book, with a maximum of 3 per booking, suitable for couples, families, or small groups. Safety considerations include no seat belts or airbags in the back seats, and the tour is not recommended for individuals over 100 Kg.

Final Thoughts on the Fiat 500 Rome Tour

The original Fiat 500 tour offers an enjoyable blend of sightseeing, history, and fun. The vintage car adds a charming, nostalgic element, and the expert guides make every stop informative. The free photos and light refreshments enhance the experience, making it feel personal and relaxed.

While the price might seem higher than some tours, the small group size, customized stops, and the chance to visit seven distinctive sites justify the cost. This tour is perfect for those wanting a more authentic, stylish, and off-the-beaten-path exploration of Rome.

It is especially suitable for small groups, couples, or families who enjoy driving, sightseeing, and storytelling in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The only caveat is that back seat safety features are limited, so guests should be comfortable in a compact vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or larger groups?
Yes, but with a maximum of 3 people per booking and children should be comfortable in a small car.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the chauffeur/guide, convoy tour, light refreshments, and free photo shooting with personal devices.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Via Labicana, 125, and concludes at the same location.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

Are tickets to attractions included?
No, stops like Caracalla Baths, the Colosseum, and Porta San Paolo are free to visit.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vintage Fiat 500 is open-roof, making for a fun and scenic drive, though back seat safety features are limited.

Can I book last-minute?
Bookings are usually made 37 days in advance, but confirmation is possible within 12 hours if available.

What if I need to cancel?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is the tour operated in multiple languages?
Yes, it is often run by a multi-lingual guide to accommodate diverse guests.

Who should consider this tour?
Anyone looking for a stylish, engaging, and personalized way to explore Rome’s lesser-known sites will find this tour particularly rewarding.