rome sightseeing bus tours

THE 10 BEST Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Hop-on hop-off tours in rome.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Big Bus Rome Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Tour

2. I Love Rome Hop on Hop off Open Bus Tour

3. Rome: Panoramic sightseeing Bus Tour + City Highlights Audioguide

4. Get-On Get-Off Bus Tour in Rome + FREE APP

5. Rome Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour

6. City Sightseeing Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

7. Maxi Combo Pass Colosseum Vatican and 2 days Hop On Hop Off Tour

8. Discover Rome: Exclusive Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

9. 24 hours unlimited hop-on-off bus Green-line Audio Tour

10. Rome Hop On Hop Off Open Bus + Vatican Museum Sistine Chapel Tour| Fast Track

11. Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tour with Colosseum Ticket

12. Hop-On Hop-Off 24h Rome River Cruise

13. Official Rome Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour

14. Hop-on-Hop-off Tour of the Castelli Romani from Rome - Tour 1

15. Rome: Catacombs Guided Tour with Panoramic Transfer

16. Rome in a day: Hop on Hop off Open Bus Sightseeing Tour

17. Big Bus Rome Panoramic Night Tour

18. ROME : Private Hop on Hop off bus 1 day

19. Hop On Hop Off Panoramic Bus Tour of Rome

20. Hop-On Hop-Off Castelli Romani from Rome - Tour 2

21. Rome Hop on Hop off Bus

22. Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tour with Vatican Ticket

23. Rome: Hop-on-off bus tour -Visit the main attraction of Rome

24. Rome Exclusive Colosseum Express Guided Tour and Open Bus Tickets

What travelers are saying.

• Big Bus Rome Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Tour
• I Love Rome Hop on Hop off Open Bus Tour
• City Sightseeing Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• 24 hours unlimited hop-on-off bus Green-line Audio Tour
• Rome: Panoramic sightseeing Bus Tour + City Highlights Audioguide
• Vatican City Tour and Tickets
• Bibbo Tours Rome
• Rome Colosseum Tours | Official Guided Tours
• Vatican Tour Tickets
• Wheel Tours - Rome by Golf Cart
• Gray Line - I Love Rome
• Big Bus Tours

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Rome Bus Tours - Hop-on Hop-off tour options and more!

By Elyssa Bernard

May 19, 2022

If you're visiting for the first time, taking one of the Rome bus tours around the city can be a great way to get a lay of the land and spot some famous landmarks right off the bat.

Is this the best way to spend a day in Rome ? Your first day in Rome?

Learn about the ins and outs, the pluses and minuses of taking a Rome bus tour, and whether it's right for you.

Rome bus tours - Everything you need to know

Most of the bus tours in Rome are hop-on-hop-off tours.

On this page we'll cover:

• Overview of the hop-on-hop-off tours in Rome

What route do the bus tours follow?

• What will you see on a Rome bus tour?
• What to expect on a Rome bus tour and how to decide if you should take one
• How much do the hop-on-hop-off bus tours cost?
• How and where to buy tickets for the hop-on-hop-off Rome bus

Tips for making the most of your bus tour in Rome

Are the bus tours in rome accessible, other types of rome bus tours you can take, overview of hop on hop off bus tours in rome.

Taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour can be the perfect way to get an overview of the city, especially those that offer an open air bus tour Rome option.

You can get on and off the bus as often as you like, so you can explore the sights that interest you most at your own pace. All the operators offer bus tours of Rome in English as well as other languages.

This is the most common type of bus tour in Rome and there are many companies offering this tour with pretty much the same itinerary.

So let's talk first about the itinerary of these tours and what you can see from the bus, and what you can see by getting off the bus.

The most common route for Rome Italy hop on hop off bus tours is:

• Start of route - Termini station
• Stop 2: Santa Maria Maggiore
• Stop 3: Colosseum
• Stop 4: Circus Maximus
• Stop 5: Piazza Venezia
• Stop 6: Vatican
• Stop 7: Piazza di Spagna/ Spanish Steps
• Stop 8: Piazza Barberini/Via Veneto

This route takes you to or near most of the major tourist attractions in Rome.

What tourist attractions can you see on a Rome bus tour?

The buses cannot go near some of Rome's must-see sites but they do have stops nearby.

So on the route above, besides the obvious sites listed there, you can also see:

Santa Maria Maggiore stop

Of course, you can (and should!) visit the stunning basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore . If you have time, you could also visit a hidden jewel of a church just around the corner from Santa Maria Maggiore, the basilica of Santa Prassede.

You may also wish to explore the charming Monti neighborhood .

Colosseum and Roman Forum stop

If you actually visit the Colosseum , your ticket includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill as well.

You may want to do this as part of your hop-on-hop-off ticket (you can purchase them as a combo), or you can just use the bus tour to get a quick view and then come back later for a complete walking tour of Ancient Rome.

Other sites in the area include the basilica of San Clemente, the Roman Houses at Celio, and the basilica of Saint Peter in Chains where you can see Michelangelo's sculpture of Moses.

Piazza Venezia Stop

Via dei Fori Imperiali, Via del Corso (shopping), Mamertine Prison, Capitoline Museums, and Capitoline Hill

Vatican City

If you stay on the double decker bus, you will glimpse Saint Peter's Basilica . But of course, there is so much to see in Vatican City .

If you decide to get off the bus at the Vatican stop, you can visit Castel Sant'Angelo , the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel , Saint Peter's Square , Saint Peter's Basilica , and Saint Peter's Dome . The bus ticket does not include entrance tickets to any locations, so you will need to purchase these separately, such as those for the Vatican Museums .

Piazza di Spagna/Spanish steps

The Spanish Steps are a must-see tourist attraction by themselves but there is also a lot to see nearby.

Besides being the main shopping area of Rome, you can also visit Piazza del Popolo, Trevi Fountain , the Pantheon , and Piazza Navona .

Piazza Barberini/Via Veneto

From the bus, you can spot Bernini's Triton fountain but if you get off the bus you can easily also visit the famous Capuchin Crypt, the Trevi Fountain , and the Palazzo Barberini museum.

What to expect on a Rome hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour

Most of these buses are open on top but also have a closed lower level.

The tour typically includes an audio guide in a variety of languages.

Some of the companies will also have live guides on the bus who give commentary in multiple languages.

Many of the companies say they offer free wi-fi onboard, but I would not always count on this.

You can board the bus from any of the stops and get on and off as much as you want in the time frame of the ticket you buy. (Often there are options for 24, 48, or 72 hours.)

If you stay on the bus, the entire loop takes around 1 ½ hours.

The ticket will also include a map of the city.

You can generally find discounts online if you book in advance .

Downsides of taking a hop-on-hop-off tour bus in Rome:

Is there a downside? Here are a few issues to be aware of:

• Although they say the buses come every 30 minutes, it may not always be the case and you could find yourself waiting a while for your bus. You may not be able to get on another company's bus and will have to wait for your own company's bus to come.
• The buses can get very crowded, especially in the summer. You may even find that there is no room available and you'll have to wait for the next bus to arrive.
• You may find it difficult to hear the audio guide if you are sitting on top of the bus.
• Some online comments have mentioned that it can be difficult to find the bus stop although I usually see them pretty well when I am walking around Rome.
• The bus routes do not cover all of the city, so for sights like the Appian Way (including the catacombs ), Galleria Borghese , and others further outside of the center, you will need to find an alternative route.

Should you take a Rome bus tour?

Given the above pluses and minuses, you may be wondering if the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus is worth it.

One important thing to note is that it's not the same as using the public transport system .

The Rome bus and metro system is considerably cheaper and much more flexible in terms of schedules and routes.

So I would not consider taking the hop-on-hop-off bus as a means to just "get around Rome."

It is meant specifically to be a sightseeing tour with strategic stops that allows the visitor to get between some of the main sites in Rome .

The hop-on-hop-off bus in Rome is for you if...

I recommend a Rome hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour if it's your first time in Rome, whether you have 1 day or a week .

What I would suggest is to stay on the bus for the entire loop so you really get a lay of the land.

This is also a great option if you are jet-lagged, because you don't have to tire yourself out with a walking tour and you can absorb as much as your body and sleepy brain will allow.

Then, the second time around (or the next day), you can get off at any of the stops that interest you and explore more.

Or, if you're done with the bus tour, you can then decide to explore more on your own on foot or take some walking tours.

And, if you have limited time in Rome , this can be a great option to ensure you at least get a glimpse of all of the major sights .

The hop-on-hop-off bus in Rome tour may not be for you if...

If you love walking and want to make your own way, Rome is fairly compact and easy to walk around.

While Rome is actually hillier than you might think (7 hills of Rome!), it's still pretty easy to cover a lot of ground on foot. (Don't forget to wear super comfortable shoes!)

You may also not want to deal with the crowds on the bus or having to wait for the bus to come at the different stops.

Finally, as I mentioned above, if what you're looking for is the best Rome public transportation option , then this is not the bus for you.

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How much do the Rome hop-on hop-off tours cost?

Most of the Rome hop-on-hop-off bus tour companies offer various ticket options depending on the number of days you want to use the pass, the age of the passenger (adult vs. child), and any add-ons or bundles you may wish to include.

Typically a 1-day adult ticket costs around 27-30€

Typically children aged 5-15 pay around 13-15 Euros.

I say "usually" and "around" because there are often discounts when you book tickets together, and when you book online in advance.

In most cases, you can purchase 1, 2, and 3-day passes. You can also get family passes.

Often you can add on a tour and/or ticket. See below for more details about bundles.

The best way to book a Rome sightseeing tour

Can you buy your hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour tickets on the bus.

Most bus companies do offer the option to purchase your ticket directly on board or at a kiosk near the stop.

However, keep in mind that during high season the Rome hop-on hop-off tours sell out quickly and you may find there is no room to board.

Can you pay with credit card? Even American Express?

For answers to these and other money-related issues, visit my comprehensive guide about Money in Rome.

Booking your hop-on-hop-off tickets online

If you can plan ahead, the best way to purchase your hop-on-hop-off tickets is by booking online in advance.

First of all, you'll often get a discount this way.

Second of all, as I mentioned above, sometimes in high season, you may find there is no room on board if you just show up.

How to book online and which tour to book

Looking for the best hop-on hop-off bus in Rome?

Some of the top companies to book with include:

• Big Bus tours
• City sightseeing tours
• Gray Line/I love Rome
• Greenline bus tours

You can also visit our partner site Get Your Guide , where you can compare the different hop-on hop-off bus tour companies, including viewing visitor ratings, the hop on bus Rome price, and more details.

There are also some hop-on hop-off bus tours that bundle other things like:

• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Vatican Museums Guided Tour
• Hop-on Hop-off Bus & Vatican Museums Ticket
• Hop-on-Hop-off Bus & Colosseum Guided Tour
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tour & Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Ticket
• Guided Tour of Trastevere & 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
• Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour Ticket & Eataly Roma Stop
• 24-Hour OMNIA Vatican Card and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
• 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket & Roman Ghetto Tour
• Ghosts and Mysteries Tour & 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
• Go City Explorer Pass - Choose 2 to 7 Attractions

Ready to plan your trip?

The hop-on-hop-off tour of Rome can be fun and interesting if you plan it right.

Here are some tips for getting the most out of your tour:

What to wear

Wear comfortable shoes as you may be doing a lot of walking if you get off at any of the stops.

The weather in Rome can be quite hot in the summer , so definitely bring sunscreen and a hat or scarf to cover your head and shoulders.

No matter what season you visit Rome, here are 4 things never to leave at home:

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

Gadgets to bring

I know I don't need to tell you to bring your smartphone and/or camera, but don't forget to also bring a spare battery for your camera, and a charger for your phone.

If you have an e-reader or tablet, consider bringing that as well so you can look up things about the sights you are seeing as you go along.

A water bottle is also a good idea , especially in the summer .

You can always refill it at one of the bus stops, from one of Rome's many drinking fountains - the ideal way to stay cool and hydrated!

Keep your valuables close to you - pickpockets do target tourists on these buses.

Better yet, travel with a pick-pocket-proof backpack.

Visit my page here about staying safe in Rome for more tips.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

If you decide to combine the bus tour with some city sightseeing on your own, i.e. you plan to actually get off and on the bus, make sure to have plenty of patience and no major time constraints , as the buses don't always run on schedule.

Yes, but with a caveat.

All the major companies who run the Rome hop-on hop off bus tours state on their websites that 'most' of their buses are accessible .

Most of the buses I see around the city are modern vehicles with wheelchair and step-free access available, but some do appear older.

I would recommend contacting your preferred bus company in advance to check they can accommodate your needs.

If you're looking for a walking tour of Rome, you'll find those on many other pages on this site.

And while this page is mostly about taking the hop-on-hop-off bus in Rome, there are a few other types of bus tours you may find useful/interesting, including trips further afield, like bus tours from Rome to Pompeii :

• Catacombs & Crypts Tour with Roman Aqueducts half-day small-group bus tour
• Civitavecchia Port: Shuttle Bus to and from Vatican City
• Panoramic Bus Tour of Rome from Civitavecchia Port
• Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Volcano Full-Day Trip
• Day Tour of Villa D'Este & Hadrian's Villa Tivoli
• Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Day Trip
• Florence and Pisa Full-Day Tour

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Top attractions and tours

• Colosseum - Don't miss visiting Rome's most iconic monument
• Vatican Museums - This is where the Sistine Chapel is
• Pantheon - Book ahead and skip the line
• Galleria Borghese - You'll need to book ahead for one of Rome's best museums
• Castel Sant'Angelo - See Rome's history through its architecture
• Rome City Pass - A great way to make your Rome visits easier

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Hop-on Hop-off Buses in Rome

Enjoy 360° views of the Eternal City from the comfort of a bus.

Spend up to three days hopping around Rome on one of the city’s double-decker sightseeing buses. Below is a complete guide to the five different tour bus companies that operate in Rome, so you can find out exactly which option is the best one for you.

What Is A Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

A Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour (ho-ho for short) is a great way to explore a new destination, especially a city as historical and jam-packed full of attractions such as Rome. Ho-Ho bus tours enable you to get on or off their buses as many times as you please and at any of the stops along their routes for the duration of your ticket – which can last up to 72 hours.

The buses follow a looped circuit with stops at many major tourist attractions. Most of them also provide free wifi on the buses, a complimentary app, multi-language assistants, and audio commentary providing information about the history of the sites and landmarks you’ll see.

With five different tour companies to choose from – each offering various ticket options – it can be hard to know which one to pick. To make that choice more manageable, we’ve put together a detailed guide that explains and compares the different tickets so that you can spend more time sightseeing and less time planning.

Big Bus Tours Rome

Big Bus Tours is the largest operator of open-top sightseeing tours and is one of the more popular bus tour operators in Rome. They offer three different ticket options with adult, child (5-15 years of age), and family (2 adults & 2 children) prices for each: the Classic (24 hours), Premium (48 hours), and Deluxe (72 hours). They also provide combo experiences – Classic tickets with entrance to either the Vatican Museums or the Colosseum.

To redeem your ticket, simply show your printed ticket or e-voucher to a staff member aboard the bus. Onboard you’ll be able to enjoy free wifi, and you’ll be provided with complimentary headphones to listen to the informative pre-recorded commentary about the sites of Rome in one of nine different languages.

To make your journey even smoother, don’t forget to download the free mobile app that comes with detailed maps, directions to your nearest Big Bus stop, and real-time tracking of the buses. 

Each ticket also comes with four digitally-guided walking tours in a variety of languages that you can download onto your smartphone and enjoy at your own leisure.

The buses operate from 9:00 am to 6:40 pm and run every 13 minutes. The duration of the tour is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Route Info:

The bus has eight stops within reach of around 40 unmissable Roman landmarks and attractions. You can hop on or off at any of these stops for the duration of your ticket. The stops are:

• Termini Railway Station
• Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore
• Circus Maximus
• Piazza Venezia
• Vatican City
• Trevi Fountain / Spanish Steps
• Piazza Barberini

Green Line Tours

Enjoy panoramic views of Rome from the open-top double-decker Green Line bus. Though quite a similar experience to the Big Bus Tours, Green Line has more flexible ticket options, offering a Daily Ticket (allows you as many rides as you want during one day, morning to evening) and a 3 Pass Ticket (allows you to get on and off at three different stops of your choice over the course of one day) as well as the usual 24, 48, and 72 hours tickets.

They also offer a reduced price for youths (13-20 years of age), with children under 12 going free.

Once you’ve booked your ticket, you can present it aboard the bus in either printed or e-voucher format. Each bus is equipped with free wifi, single-use earphones to listen to the audio guides available in 13 different languages, and a multilingual assistant who can answer your questions.

Included in the ticket is a map of the city of Rome and a free app that you can use to monitor your route and learn more about selected points of interest.

Buses run between 9:00 am to 6:30 pm every 10-30 minutes. A complete loop takes approximately one hour and a half.

There are eight stops included in one loop. All of them are close to major sites and attractions.

• Villa Borghese

Gray Line I Love Rome

Gray Line buses are hard to miss because of their hot pink color. They offer the standard 24, 48, and 72-hour tickets, but they also have a selection of cheaper, single-day tickets. They have a choice between a Daily ticket (valid for one day of travel selected at the time of booking – discounted in the afternoon); a 5-hour ticket (valid for 5 hours from first use); and a One Run ticket (valid for one entire bus run, no hop-offs – discounted in the afternoon).

Children between 6 and 11 pay a reduced price.

You can enjoy free wifi onboard, a pre-recorded audio guide available in 13 different languages, and a detailed route map. Both printed tickets and e-vouchers are accepted. Walking tours are available from stops 4, 5, and 6. If you’re interested, ask a staff member on board to reserve you a spot.

Buses run between 8:30 am to 6:50 pm every 15-20 minutes. An entire run takes approximately one hour and a half.

Like its competitors, Gray Line also stops at eight major tourist hotspots.

• Circus Maximus & Mouth of Truth
• Vatican City & Castel Sant’Angelo
• Spanish Steps
• Piazza Barberini & Trevi Fountain

City Sightseeing Roma

City Sightseeing tours are famous worldwide. Their buses have the most ‘classic’ look: red double-decker, and in Rome, decorated with famous Roman sites. They offer Classic (24 hours), Premium (48 hours), and Deluxe (72 hours) tickets that can be used on both the City Sightseeing and Big Bus Tours buses when purchased on their website.

Children (between 5 and 15) pay a reduced price, and they also have a family ticket (2 adults, 2 kids) option available.

Your ticket gives you access to free wifi onboard the bus and an audioguide available in 8 different languages. Don’t forget to download the nifty app that comes with an interactive map featuring real-time updates about the location of the buses. It also contains a digitally-guided walking tour of the city center in 5 languages.

Buses run from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm every 10-30 minutes. An entire run takes approximately one hour and a half.

• Piazza di Spagna

Vatican & Rome Open Bus Service

This bus tour operator offers the most unique route out of the five, its focus being on religious sites. It’s run by the Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi, a branch of the Vicariate of Rome. Their buses are bright yellow, a color representing the Vatican.

They offer five different ticket options: Daily tickets, 24h, 48h, 72h tickets, or a One Round ticket (non-stop panoramic tour, no hop-offs). Children between the ages of 6 to 17 enjoy a reduced price. An app where you can download your tickets is also available.

Each bus is staffed with multilingual assistants, has free wifi, and provides an audioguide available in eight languages. This bus is also unique because stops scheduled along the itinerary will be on request.

The buses operate from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and run every 45 minutes. The duration of the tour is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

This tour contains 14 different stops, though some are quite close together.

• Vatican City – Castel Sant’Angelo
• San Giovanni dei Fiorentini
• Santa Agnese in Agone – Piazza Navona
• Torre Argentina
• Santa Maria in Ara Coeli
• Santi Apostoli
• Santa Maria degli Angeli
• Termini Station
• Santa Maria Maggiore
• San Giovanni in Laterano
• Colosseum – San Gregorio al Celio
• Circus Maximus – Santa Sabina all’Aventino
• Teatro Marcello – Santa Maria in Campitelli
• Largo Argentina – Santa Maria ad Martyres

All the tour operators, with the exception of Vatican and Rome Open Bus Service, offer very similar bus routes. They follow similar circuits of the historic center and stop near or at most of the major tourist hotspots, including the Colosseum , Vatican City , Circus Maximus , and the Spanish Steps / Trevi Fountain .

The Vatican and Rome Open Bus Service also stops at many major sites, but its main focus is on churches and other religious sites. It’s also the only tour operator that goes to San Giovanni in Laterano Basilica , south of the city center. However, it doesn’t stop at either Piazza di Spagna or the Trevi Fountain.

Most of the buses operate from approximately 9 am to around 6:30-7:00 at night, and run every 10-30 minutes. The Vatican & Rome buses have a shorter schedule, running from 10 am to 4 pm every 45 minutes. Each route takes roughly one hour and a half to complete the entire circuit.

The main stops are at Termini station and the Vatican, which is where most of the operators have staff and their offices.

Tour Offerings 

Is a hop-on hop-off bus tour worth it in rome.

Rome can be a daunting city to visit. With so much to see and do, many visitors to the Eternal City feel like they just didn’t have enough time to see as much as they wanted to. Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours are a great option for first-time visitors who don’t know where to begin or visitors who want to see a lot in a small amount of time.

Rome, however, is also a great city to walk around . For visitors who enjoy taking things slow and getting a feel for the city, tour buses are not the way to go. If you want to have a more authentic and local experience, far from the crowds of tourists, then ho-ho buses may not be the best choice for you.

Hop-on Hop-off buses are a great choice if you want to:

• See a lot of major attractions in a short amount of time.
• Not get lost in the maze that is Rome.
• Make the most of a limited amount of time.
• See the city without dealing with public transport in a foreign language.
• See the city but have mobility issues.
• Enjoy arriving at destinations hassle-free.
• Learn interesting facts and stories about the sites with an audio guide.

Hop-on Hop-off buses are not for you if you want to:

• Avoid crowds of tourists.
• Get to one specific destination quickly.
• See the city early in the morning or later in the evening.
• Immerse yourself in the Italian culture and see the city like a local.
• Walk around.
• See lesser-known attractions and sites.
• Get off the beaten track.

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City Sightseeing Rome: Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus + Free Walking Tour

Activity schedule, key highlights.

• Inclusions & Exclusions

Hop-On, Hop-Off: Daily

Hop-on, Hop-off: 1 day, 24, 48 or 72 hours. 1 loop takes 100 minutes

Hop-on, Hop-off: 9am to 5:45pm, every 15-20 min (depending on the routes & season)

Timings are subject to change.

Hop on to the bus from any of the stops . The favored stops are Termini Station (stop1), Terminal B , Santa Maria Maggiore and Colosseum . 

You can hop off at any of the stops

• Discover the historic charms of the Eternal City with the hop-on, hop-off bus
• Top rated and trusted brand for Rome sightseeing bus tour! Largest fleet & frequent departures
• 2-in-1 ticket! This ticket is valid for City sightseeing Rome and Vatican & Rome Open Bus!
• Get up close with iconic attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain and more
• Savour an immersive experience with informative audio commentary in multiple languages and free WiFi
• Relish a comprehensive trail through the city even if you are short on time
• Both printed or smartphone vouchers accepted

Discover Rome’s timeless beauty, fascinating history, and vibrant culture on this hop-on hop-off bus tour. Choose from four validity options - 1 day,   24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours , and explore the breathtaking Eternal City at your own pace.

You can hop on and off the bus as you wish to explore the sights further, go shopping or grab a bite to eat. Visit iconic attractions like the Colosseum, the Vatican City and the Trevi Fountain with our strategically located stops or stay onboard and listen to the informative audio commentary, provided in multiple languages - perfect for first-time visitors.

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS COVERED

• Piazza Venezia 
• Trevi Fountain 
• Piazza Barberini 
• Santa Maria Maggiore 
• Circus Maximus 

What's more? Take advantage of the Free WiFi onboard and a free self-guided walking tour of the city centre included in an array of languages. For more information, you can contact the assistance onboard or at the visitor centre.

This ticket is valid for City Sightseeing Rome and ORP Omnia Bus.  

• 1 day, 24h, 48h or 72h City Sightseeing bus ticket (as per option chosen)
• Access to ORP (Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi) hop-on, hop-off route
• Audio commentary in Portuguese, Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Russian
• Free Self-Guided Walking Tour in English, French, Italian, German and Spanish
• Free WiFi onboard
• Entrance fees to attractions, unless specified

Useful downloads

• Map & Timetable

Please note

Voucher Information:  You can show your voucher on your smartphone (But if you’d rather print a copy – that’s fine too!)

This ticket is valid for City Sightseeing Rome and ORP Omnia Bus 

Wheelchair Friendly: Yes

Rome is a functioning city and weather, traffic, and events may occasionally cause disruption.

Timings and stops are subject to change. The updated map will be available once you board the bus.

Walking tour details will be shared on arrival, you can contact Assistance on board or at the Visitor Center.

Customer Reviews

We really enjoyed using the HOHO to orient ourselves in Rome

Brenda Campbell

Very expensive for what we got to see in Rome. We should have asked for a refund due to a demonstration that day that restricted the sites such as the Colosseum. Not the company’s fault but we should have been offered a refund at boarding.

Mary Peterson

Recording was hard to hear or didn't work and the app was free, but the walking tours were not. Otherwise, this was really worthwhile. We saw so many attractions in Rome. Great way to spend the first day.

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AUDIOGUIDE IN 12 LANGUAGES

REAL-TIME BUS LOCATION

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I Love Rome Tourist Bus - 1 Tour (No Hop on-Hop off)

• One Tour ticket valid for a single trip
• 8 stops near the highlights of Rome
• Audio guides available in 12 languages
• New “Kids audio guide” with child-friendly content in English and Italian
• Free WiFi on board
• Reserved space for wheelchairs
• Panoramic views of Rome
• Duration: 1 h 45 min

I Love Rome Tourist Bus Hop on Hop off (Half Day Ticket)

• Hop on Hop off ticket valid for 5 hours
• Hop on and off as many times as you want
• 8 stops near the Rome's highlights

I Love Rome Tourist Bus Hop on Hop off (24/48 h Ticket)

• 24 or 48 hour Hop on Hop off ticket
• 8 stops near Rome's landmarks
• Kids audio guide” with child-friendly content in English and Italian
• Space reserved for wheelchairs
• Panoramic views of the city

format_quote We chose this hop on hop off bus tour for its design and route. It goes through all Rome must see sights and the staff is very helpful. We enjoyed the free Wi-Fi. Highly recommended!

format_quote With the App you can see all the stops and where the bus is in real time. This helped us a lot to better plan our time and enjoy Rome.

format_quote Rome City Tour is the perfect way to visit the city. We had a tight schedule and were travelling with our kids. The upper deck has great views and the route is fun and complete.

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About CityTour

Roma City Tour is part of City Tour WorldWide, a brand of Grupo Juliá. It is one of the main tourist transport service operators. With a presence in multiple destinations and countries in the world.

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You can learn more about Rome City Tour through our blog and social networks. Keep up to date with our news and services! For any questions you might have, our customer service team will be happy to help you. We hope you enjoy the experience!

Real time bus location on our App

Get the City Tour Worldwide app to find our buses and trains in real time, locate the stops and find out what’s around you.

Discover Rome and its attractions with IOBUS bus tours.

The best open-top bus tour of rome..

Visit the most beautiful monuments on board the get on get off open-top buses and with the same ticket you can get a digital guide via app and 6 walking tours included.

Visiting a city from the open top bus gives you a unique perspective on Rome's timeless architectural wonders and with hop on hop off tickets and the IOBUS app you can get off at any stop and enjoy incredible walking tours.

Starting from Roma Termini station , the terminus of the itinerary, the IOBUS bus tour winds its way through the streets of Rome, beginning with the magnificent sight of the Colosseum and Circus Maximus.

If you have chosen the Hop On Hop Off ticket option, you can get off at either of these two stops and walk to the Roman Forum, the Bocca della Verità and the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano.

Also not to be missed is the Orange Garden, a park enclosed within medieval walls with an incredible view of the Eternal City.

Resuming the bus route, the next stop is Piazza Venezia with the majestic Altare della Patria.

From here, you can walk to the Jewish quarter, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

Stop number six is the Vatican and on foot you can visit Castel Sant'Angelo and the extraordinary view of St Peter's Basilica via Via della Conciliazione.

The last two stops are Piazza di Spagna and Barberini , from where you can reach the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, Ara Pacis and Piazza del Popolo.

Departures every 30 minutes ensure a constant flow of vehicles and allow for maximum service flexibility.

Departing from Roma Termini station, the terminus of the itinerary, the IOBUS bus tour winds its way through the streets of Rome, starting with a view of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and continuing with a magnificent view of the Colosseum.

1 - Visiting the Colosseum by bus

A bus tour of the Eternal City can only begin with the magnificent view of the Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre. Built in the first century A.D. at the behest of the Flavian family, the amphitheatre par excellence was created as an arena for games and fights between gladiators, hunting simulations and naval combat. Today the Colosseum is one of the most recognisable symbols in the world and a must-see for any tourist visiting the capital.    

2 - The Circus Maximus

Continuing to explore the wonders of ancient Rome, the bus tour will pass by the Circus Maximus, one of the greatest spectacle buildings of all time, once used for games, competitions and public events of various kinds. With its 85,000 square metres of surface area, the Circus Maximus is an unmissable sight if you want to relive the splendours of the ancient Roman Empire.

3 - Stopping at Piazza Venezia

Resuming the bus route through the streets of Rome, the next stop is Piazza Venezia with the majestic Victor Emmanuel II Monument, also known as the Vittoriano or Altare della Patria. Built in honour of the king of Italian Unification Vittorio Emanuele II in neoclassical style, the majestic white marble architectural complex houses the terrace of the Altare della Patria with the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the equestrian statue of the king and the sommoportico and propylaea.

4 - The Roman Forum

If you have chosen a Get On Get Off ticket, you can get off at one of the first stops on the IOBUS tour and walk to the Roman Forum , also known as the Imperial Forums. Over the centuries the Forum has been the centre of political, religious and commercial activities in ancient Rome. For many years public life took place here until, at the end of the Republican era, it became too small for the population that had reached the city of Rome. Today it is a unique archaeological area and one of the city's main attractions.

5 - The Pantheon

Thanks to the stops and the POP Guide that you can download with your tour ticket, you can discover the city on foot through 6 walking tours and also visit the Pantheon , the best preserved Roman building in the world. Built around 126 AD, Agrippa's Pantheon boasts the largest concrete dome, with a diameter of 43.44 metres and built without a steel framework. A unique sight that is definitely worth a visit.

6 - The Piazza Navona complex

A spectacular Baroque complex that you must see if you visit Rome is Piazza Navona. The square, built on the ruins of an ancient Roman stadium, still retains its characteristic ellipsoidal shape and is adorned with three splendid fountains. The side fountains are the work of Fontana de' Calderari while the one in the centre is the famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, designed by Bernini.

7 - Castel Sant'Angelo

Stop number six on the IOBUS bus route is dedicated to the Vatican. Right in front of the stop you can admire the fortification of Castel Sant'Angelo. Built around 123 AD as a sepulchre for Emperor Hadrian, over the centuries the structure has changed its function several times, becoming a prison, a fortress, an archaeological site and, last but not least, a Papal residence. Not everyone knows that Castel Sant'Angelo is connected to the Vatican State by a raised walkway that the Popes used as a secret passageway. 

8 - St Peter's Basilica

Continuing from stop number six on the IOBUS bus tour, you can admire the extraordinary view of St Peter's Basilica across Via della Conciliazione. The Basilica is one of the largest buildings in the world, a place of worship par excellence and an architectural jewel waiting to be discovered. From the large elliptical square to the quadruple colonnade, from the iconic dome to the priceless works of art inside, St. Peter's is an unmissable stop on any self-respecting tour of Rome.

9 - Spanish Steps and Trinità dei Monti

The penultimate stop of the bus tour is Piazza di Spagna. From here, getting off the IOBUS bus, you can reach the Spanish Steps and Trinità dei Monti . The Church of the Holy Trinity of the Mounts is one of the most important churches in Rome and is located at the top of the famous Spanish Steps overlooking the Spanish Steps. Absolutely worth seeing.

10 - Trevi Fountain (Barberini)

Very close to the Spanish Steps is the Trevi Fountain , surely the most famous of Rome's fountains. Built of travertine and marble close to what later became Palazzo Poli, the fountain has always been linked to romantic traditions and legends of the beneficial effects of water. Speaking of beliefs, don't forget to throw a coin into the fountain, according to legend you will soon be back in Rome, perhaps on another IOBUS bus tour.

What are you waiting for?

Why This Unique Tour In Rome Was My Favorite Way To Explore The City

R ome has a rich history and vibrant culture that can transport you to a different era. Long before I ever visited Rome, what I knew of the ancient city came from the movies. I’m a classic movie buff, and Roman Holiday , the 1953 romantic comedy, is my favorite film.

The story unfolds as Princess Ann, who, during a visit to Rome, escapes her guardians to explore the city. Enter a handsome newspaper reporter who whisks her away on the back of his Vespa. I’ll never forget the images of iconic landmarks in the eternal city whizzing by as the movie unfolds.

On a recent visit, I found that exploring Rome by Vespa Sidecar Tour can make you feel like you’re living a similar fantasy. 

My private Vespa Sidecar Tour was provided by Anantara Palazzo Naiadi as part of a hosted stay at the beautiful hotel. As always, all opinions are my own.

The Vespa Sidecar Tour 

The Vespa Sidecar tour offers a unique way to discover the city’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and picturesque squares. As you motor through the bustling city, you can imagine yourself as Audrey Hepburn’s character, Princess Ann, embarking on her own Roman adventure. 

The company’s owner, Luca Di Trapano, explained that the Vespa Sidecar Tour was born in a flash of inspiration after 2 decades of giving tours in Rome. He thought the concept was genius but later learned his idea was 45 years too late.

The makers of the Vespa stopped producing the model equipped with a sidecar in 1968. Not easily deterred, he persevered and brought his dream to reality. Since 2018, Luca has welcomed over 20,000 passengers on board without a single accident. He told me, “It is like having sailed through the streets of Rome with four or five gigantic cruise ships!”

The tours are 3 hours, depending on traffic. The price is 110 euros per person (about $117) on the small group tour (12 guests max). You can take the tour solo as I did or with a companion or group. Trade places halfway through for a new perspective. A private tour’s price depends on the number of guests.

Here are several reasons why you should explore Rome on this unique Vespa tour.

Easy Meeting Point

Piazza della Repubblica is the tour meeting point. The square is well-connected and easy for drop-offs by taxis and vehicles. Take the subway Line A to the Repubblica-Teatro dell’Opera stop. It’s just a 2-minute walk from the Central Termini Railway Station.

Pro Tip: If you want somewhere to stay close by, I recommend Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel . A restored 19th-century, crescent-shaped palazzo, it fronts Piazza della Repubblica, where the Vespa tour starts. At the assigned time, I met my guide, Alessio, at the concierge desk. My chariot, i.e. baby blue Vespa, was waiting just outside.

The Iconic Landmarks Of Rome

Exploring the highlights of the Eternal City, we visited 12 sights, including the Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, and the Borghese Gardens. There were several opportunities to stop, stretch our legs, and linger, including the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.

It’s A Blast!

When exploring the beautiful city of Rome, I loved all the astonished looks on people’s faces as we made our way down tight alleys and broad avenues. I felt like a movie star — everyone was smiling, waving, and snapping our photo. We must have been quite a sight; something special to share with family members when you get home.

Avoid The Crowds

What’s the best way to avoid crowds and see a different side of Rome? See it on a Vespa! If you’re fearless, you could rent one yourself. But my advice? Enlist a pro. You will feel much safer riding next to or behind someone who understands the ins and outs of Rome’s streets, where locals think traffic lanes are merely suggestions.

It’s A Beautiful Ride

The Vespa is a classic: These stunning coupes from Italy are iconic on the streets of Rome. Piaggio & Co. started making the Vespa after WWII as cheap, affordable transportation. Eventually, in 1953, the hit movie Roman Holiday showed the world how great a Vespa could be, resulting in record sales. Like the Colosseum, the Italian scooter has remained a part of Italy’s landscape. You will feel like an authentic Italian in the sidecar of a Vespa.

Unique And Unforgettable Way To See The Eternal City 

Unlike larger vehicles, a Vespa can easily maneuver through tight spaces, allowing you to see more of the city’s hidden gems and local hotspots. As you zip through the streets, you’ll experience the city in an exciting and unique way. Your guide will share his knowledge of the city’s history and culture, providing insights into the backstories of the pivotal figures in the Roman Empire.

A Driver And Official Guide Rolled Into One

My driver, Alessio, wasn’t just a history buff: He’s also an official guide, which means he’s been trained to lead tours and provide in-depth information on all the sites you’ll see. He knows how to keep you engaged, entertained, and informed, making your Vespa tour an unforgettable experience. Throughout the tour, he shared fascinating facts, historical anecdotes, and his favorite neighborhoods and restaurants. With his expertise and passion for sharing the city’s rich history, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind adventure that you’ll remember for years to come. 

Radio-Connected Modern Whispers

As we cruised along the streets of Rome, Alessio provided commentary directly into my ear through a modern whisper system. He pointed out the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square where the Pope makes his Sunday address. It was chilling to see the balcony above the Piazza Venezia, where Mussolini delivered his most famous speech, the declaration of war on France and Britain in 1940.

A Sense Of Freedom And Excitement

Take in Rome’s sights, sounds, and smells from the open-air Vespa sidecar. You can enjoy the warm breeze on your face, witness the daily life of Romans, and immerse yourself in the city’s timeless beauty. 

Pro Tip: Three hours is about the right amount of time to get a taste of Rome. I saw much more than I would in a walking tour, and it was a better experience than a hop-on, hop-off bus tour — we could go where large coaches could not.

I Felt Safe 

The guides are expert drivers and the top-class helmets have face shields and disposable head covers. The passenger wears a seatbelt with a shoulder harness. We traveled at the most 24 miles per hour; just the right pace. Once you are on board, your unease fades away as you sit back, hold on, and enjoy the thrill of exploring Rome on a Vespa.

The Hidden Gems Of Rome

Rome is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and a real bucket-list destination. But allow some time to visit the hidden gems many tourists miss. Janiculum Hill, called the “Eighth Hill of Rome,” is a beautiful, often overlooked area with the best views of Rome. It’s a bit of a climb on foot, but on a Vespa, sit back and enjoy the ride. Piazzale Garibaldi in the center has the Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument with a cannon that fires daily at noon. Don’t miss the 17th-century Aqua Paola Fountain.

Cappuccino And Cornetto 

After visiting the Pantheon, we stopped for a cappuccino and cornetto, the traditional Roman breakfast choice. Our baby blue Vespa was parked nearby and I enjoyed watching how much attention it got from passersby. On the afternoon tours, customers are offered gelato instead.

Unforgettable Experience 

This is the perfect gift for someone who has done everything and an unforgettable experience for curious travelers of all ages. You will carry home remarkable moments and fun memories. 

Would I recommend Vespa Sidecar Tour? Absolutely. If this had been my first time in Rome, it would have given me a good overview of the places I would like to return to for a deeper dive. I have been to Rome several times, but until now, I’ve never seen the eternal beauty of Rome from the seat of a Vespa sidecar. And the coin I tossed into the Trevi Fountain guarantees I’ll be back.

Related Reading: 

• 9 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Rome
• 7 Unexpected And Unforgettable Attractions You Need To See In Rome
• 7 Best Places To Indulge In Dolce Far Niente While Visiting Rome

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

Sightseeing & Bus Tours of Moscow

Below you can see a few samples of the tours offered in Moscow by our recommended tour providers. Unfortunately, Moscow does not yet have a company like Peter's Walk (in St. Petersburg), who are more on the alternative side of things. But you can still take a bus tour of the main attractions or visit a KGB museum if you wish. If you would like to customize your own tour , please, fill in the tour request form at the end of this page.       Introductory Sightseeing Tours:    

Tours around Moscow: Trips out of Town  

Customize Your Own Tour :

Send a request through Way to Russia Support System (Choose Walking Tours department) and our managers will refer your inquiry to the most relevant provider.

You can also post a question in our Talk Lounge forums and other travelers will be able to give you a good advice.

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