almesq

Deborah--the tours are quite a bit of walking. Even though there are some places to sit, it is a lot of walking and standing. This is especially true on the Vatican tour we took--4 hours, mostly standing rather than actively walking which I think is even more difficult. We were exhausted after the Vatican tour, the ancient rome tour was a bit easier, more actual walking but less standing in one place. I certainly would not have wanted to be on those tours if I couldn't walk for long periods.

elaine

I can't do a compare and contrast, I'll just provide a few facts on Scala Reale, not that they need me as an advocate.

website: www.scalareale.org

docents: native English speakers, all either teachers or students in the fields of art, history, and/or architecture. I found in some places in Rome that not all those giving "English tours" actually speak comprehensible English.

Average size of tour group: 6

Most tours are 3-4 hours, and included beverage and bathroom breaks and occasional sit-downs. The two most highly recommended are the Vatican tour, and the Forum/Colosseum tour.

Charges were per person, family rates could be arranged. "Membership" included an additional two-hour tour, either an 'orientation hike' or an 'orientation walk.' The 'hike' was fast-paced but not particularly strenuous.

Additional services: Rome info packet delivered to your hotel, included great restaurant and other suggestions.
Their office was staffed by a person into the early evening.

AKNIC

Another vote for the Scala Reale tour
in Rome. Our guide was so knowledgable and happy to answer any questions.
The Orientation Tour that is a bonus is not to be missed. A real plus to have that included at no charge. Have a great trip.
Kay

WillTravel

AKNIC, how did you get the Orientation Tour for free? Is there some sort of package deal?

Nikki

WillTravel, I believe they have changed the structure of their program at Scala Reale. There used to be a requirement that you join their organization in order to take a tour, and they threw in a free orientation tour with membership.

tgrankin

Quick note to clarify the Scala Reale orientation tour; still offered but no longer free with registration in that Scala is no longer a membership organization. Since this reorganization, though, a lot of great new itineraries have been added.

massagediva

I been to Rome each of the last three springs and have taken Scala Reale tours each time. I think I've taken five or six of them. They are worth every penny!

jcolem2

I took the Scala Reale tour of ancient Rome back in August, and it was quite possibly my favorite part of the trip. Our group only had 5 people, and we were assigned two docents. They each had a very different perspective on the sites and culture (one was an American ex pat architect and the other a native Roman) - it was fantastic to hear such diverse viewpoints. The tour ended up lasting about 5 hours instead of 4, but it was well worth the money! Several people in my group said they used S.R. for tours of the Vatican and Museums and that they were fabulous as well - wish I'd have booked that!