Jewish History Walking Tour in Rome, Rome

Overview

Enjoy a journey through art, history, culture, traditions, and food as you explore Rome’s vibrant Jewish Quarter. Stroll through the lively Jewish Ghetto with a local Jewish guide, admire the beauty of Rome’s Great Synagogue, and explore the expansive Jewish-Roman culture through timeless art and delectable cuisine.

The Jewish residents of Rome can consider themselves among the city’s most historical inhabitants. Their settlement even predated the time of Julius Caesar! As you explore historic neighborhoods, places of worship, and museums, you’ll acquire a deep knowledge of Rome’s Jewish culture from past to present.

Ever resilient in the face of persecution, the historic settlers of the Jewish Ghetto have shaped an area that is now perhaps the most thriving and desired neighborhood in Rome’s historic center. Set between the Capitoline Hill and the River Tiber, the Ghetto bustles with fresh bakeries and restaurants specializing in Jewish cuisine, as well as the city’s largest synagogue.

As you walk through the district, learn the story behind the beautiful Fontana delle Tartarughe (Fountain of the Turtles) and the ancient Portico of Octavia, a monumental complex dedicated to the sister of the first Roman emperor Augustus. Listen closely to catch the unique Giudeo-Romanesco dialect, which many residents still speak. It’s one of the oldest surviving remnants of this unique culture.

Next, visit the Ashkenaz and Sephardi synagogues, where you’ll find countless treasures spanning the ages. Then venture inside the iconic Great Synagogue of Rome, the largest in the city. Your guide will share the synagogue's history, established after the unification of Italy, and the changes to Jewish culture and representation throughout the centuries.

Read more about unique and interesting activities in Rome and other cultural experiences in Italy.

Itineraries with Jewish History Walking Tour in Rome

Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre & Venice - 9 Days

This nine-day tour travels by high-speed train to Italy's most famous cities. Start in Rome, where you'll wander through ancient sights and museums independently or with a private guide. Next, explore the manicured gardens and architecture in Florence—with a day trip to the Cinque Terre to hike between villages on the Mediterranean. Then you're off to Venice to wander through the squares, basilicas, and hidden canals of the "Floating City" to complete the adventure.

Discover Venice, Tuscany & Rome - 12 Days

This 12-day trip through Italy is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights. Starting in Venice, you'll walk along the bridges and ride a gondola through the famed Grand Canal. Then hop on a train to Florence to see world-class cathedrals and Renaissance masterpieces. From here, pick up your car and start a self-drive adventure, exploring the stunning region of Tuscany (and its wineries) before ending in Rome, where ancient history, eclectic neighborhoods, and a vibrant food scene await.

Rome, Orvieto & Florence - 6 Days

This six-day train adventure through Italy combines world-class cities and stunning countryside. Start in Rome, visiting the Vatican and Colosseum before heading to the lesser-known Umbria region for a stopover in Orvieto. Finish in elegant Florence, where you'll see Renaissance masterpieces and enjoy predinner aperitivos overlooking the Arno River.