Big Bus Tours Rome Review: Hop-On, Hop-Off Sightseeing Tips and Must-See Stops

Wondering if a hop-on hop-off bus tour is worth it in Rome? A Rome sightseeing bus tour is one of the easiest ways to explore top landmarks and attractions without planning every detail yourself. Just hop on and go! Here’s what to expect, what you’ll see, and why it might be the perfect choice for your vacation. Although I usually explore new destinations on foot, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour is another great way to sightsee Rome. During my recent trip to the “Eternal City”, I joined Big Bus Tours Rome, the flexible bus tour that allows you to explore places of interest in Rome for a day or two.

If you’re into photography, the double-decker bus tour offers a unique vantage point and shares interesting facts about Rome’s long history.

If you’re visiting Rome during the summer months, take it from me, join the Rome bus tour to simply avoid the scorching heat – you’ll thank me later! The shaded comfort of the bus offers a welcome break from walking the city.

Since Big Bus Tours Rome provides a general overview of the city, this tour is perfect if you’re short on time or exploring Rome during a stopover. The tour lasts 105 minutes (if you don’t hop off) and along the way, you’ll drive past landmarks like the Colosseum, the Vatican, and Circus Maximus. You’ll also discover lots of hidden gems scattered throughout the city.

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How Big Bus Rome Works

Big Bus Tours Rome offers several ticket types to match your travel plans and time in the city.

The main differences come down to how long you’ll have access and whether extras like walking tours or night tours are included.

The most affordable option, Rome Taster Ticket starts at 24 € with a three hour hop-on, hop-off ticket.

The most expensive ticket, the Explore Ticket costs 45 € and includes 72 hours access, a panoramic night tour, free date changes, and a free walking tour.

Big Bus Tours Rome Tour Amenities on Board

Onboard you’re given free headphones and rain ponchos when it’s raining. Available in nine languages, the pre-recorded commentary provides lots of historical insight.

I also enjoyed the Italian-inspired instrumentals that played in between segments.

Wi-Fi is complimentary so feel free to share your favorite memories from the tour with your family and friends via email or social media.

Rome Routes & Stops

With a focus on flexibility and convenience, Big Bus Tours Rome operates Monday to Sunday and runs every twenty minutes. There are two routes, the Red Route and Purple Route.

The Red Route has eight stops many of which were right in front of popular landmarks or within walking distance.

The Purple Route takes you to landmarks of the historic Appian Way.

We started the Rome bus tour at Termini Railway Station (Stop 1) and we later hopped off at the Spanish Steps (Stop 8).

Walking Tour Option

As a bonus, Big Bus Tours Rome also offers exclusive guided walking tours for customers who want to explore Rome’s narrow cobblestone streets. Although I didn’t get to join any of the free walking tours, here are my favorite highlights from Big Bus Tours Rome as well as some fun facts!

Must-See Rome Landmarks on the Tour

1. Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore

As one of the oldest and largest churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary, The Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore is a stunning basilica that captivates the eyes and hearts of anyone lucky enough to see it for themselves.

The Baroque-style basilica dates back to the 5th-century with plans formulated as early as 431 A.D. The basilica is known for being one of the most ornate early Christian churches.

Fun Fact: The Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore is home to the manger of Jesus. Underneath the high altar, the manger is concealed in a crystal shrine.

2. The Colosseum

The Colosseum, also known as the “Flavian Amphitheatre”, is the world’s largest amphitheater.

You might remember the Colosseum from history books and pop culture, including movies like “Gladiator”.

Emperor Vespasian gifted the people of Rome a new stadium designed to satisfy the city’s passion for entertainment.

Only taking ten years to complete, this mega-arena held up to 80,000 enthused spectators.

Back in the day, the Colosseum was Rome’s premier venue for public spectacles, such as comedies, dramas, and tragedies based on Roman mythology. Enactments of famous battles, animal hunts, and even mock naval battles were also showcased here.

3. Circus Maximus

Circus Maximus was the third stop on our bus route. It was the largest stadium in ancient Rome and the main venue for chariot racing. Right next to the Palatine Hill, it held up to 250,000 people (about ¼ of Rome’s population).

Rumored to have been first introduced to Rome by the first king of Rome, it was the fifth king of Rome, Tarquinius Priscus, who ordered a track be built between the Palatine and Aventine hills during the mid-6th century B.C.

Throughout history, the Circus Maximus endured three fires. Although the fires damaged the stadium, each fire led to a new, more refined Circus Maximus. The last of the fires resulted in what you see today, a three-story high stone stadium.

Today the Circus Maximus is a public park and another great place to run in Rome.

Fun Fact: The last chariot race at the Circus Maximus was held in 549 A.D., almost 1,000 years after the stadium was built.

4. Trevi Fountain

The Fontana di Trevi or Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque-style fountain in Rome. The Fontana di Trevi has experienced centuries of construction dating back to as early as 19 B.C.!

Trevi Fountain was originally one of the main aqueducts in Rome, however by the 6th century A.D, the Ostrogoths destroyed many of the aqueducts.

During the Renaissance, the aqueducts were transformed into something spectacular for the people of Rome to enjoy. The Trevi Fountain was finally completed in 1762.

At night, LED lights illuminate the fountain and capture its incredible beauty.

Despite the crowds, it’s worth making your way to the front for a photo of this iconic fountain.

Fun Fact: If you want to return to Rome, tradition says stand with your back facing away from the fountain and throw a coin into Trevi with your right hand over your left shoulder. Every day the city collects the coins to help the needy.

I tossed my first coin into Trevi Fountain last summer so I’m looking forward to my return back to Rome soon!

For more Rome inspiration, check out Rudderless’ video on spending 2 days in Rome.

Ticketing Pricing

Essential Ticket: 36,45 € online or 45,00 € in-person. Check the official Big Bus Tours Rome website for current rates.

Buy online and save! Tickets are cheaper when you book ahead. Don’t pay full price at the bus stop.

Top 5 Reasons To Take a Rome Bus Tour

1. See More in Less Time: Perfect for travelers short on time, this format lets you cover major landmarks in just a few hours without rushing
2. Skip the Summer Heat: Rome in the summer can be brutally hot. Enjoy sightseeing from the comfort of an air-conditioned or shaded seat on the open-top double-decker bus.
3. Learn As You Go: Onboard audio commentary in multiple languages gives context to what you’re seeing, turning the drive into a mini history lesson.
4. Flexible and Stress Free: Don’t worry about renting a car. With buses running every 20 minutes and stops near major attractions, you can explore the city at your own pace.
5. Bonus Walking Tour Included: Choose from four different self-paced walking tours as you explore some of Rome’s ancient alleyways. Pick from seven languages: English, Italian, French, Spanish, German, Chinese, and Russian.

➡️ Want to make the most of your Rome trip? Book your Big Bus Tours ticket in advance and start sightseeing the moment you arrive.

Is the Rome Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour Worth It?

Short on time in Rome, Italy? A Big Bus Tours Rome sightseeing experience is a convenient and flexible way to see the city’s most iconic landmarks without the stress of navigating on your own.

With onboard commentary, panoramic views from the open-top deck, and free extras like Wi-Fi and walking tours, this is one of the best bus tours in Rome which offers a well-rounded introduction to the “Eternal City.”

Whether it’s your first visit or a short stopover, this bus tour is a smart, time-saving option for financially savvy travelers who want to soak in Rome’s ancient history and architecture without missing a beat.

Planning your Rome Budget? Don’t miss this breakdown: How Much Does a Trip To Rome Cost?

Danielle Desir Corbett

Danielle Desir Corbett is an award-winning and 6x grant-funded travel writer and podcast host who went from financial struggle to visiting 27+ countries all without waiting until retirement. Her story is proof that budget doesn’t limit adventure. Tune into The Thought Card Podcast for practical strategies to travel smarter and live on your terms. Say hello: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.

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