The Jewish Ghetto located in Rome is one of the city’s hidden attractions. The area was originally constructed in 1555 to take away the rights of Roman Jews and confine them to one tiny neighborhood.

During the Second World War, Nazis surrounded the area and forcibly removed over 1,000 Jews. Since then, the neighborhood has become a cultural, religious and culinary hub. One of the best ways to explore the area is on a Jewish Ghetto tour in Rome.

Here's everything you need to know about the Jewish Ghetto, one of the most insightful locations for a sightseeing tour in Rome.

Where is the Jewish Ghetto located in Rome?

The Jewish Ghetto sits between the Tiber River and Venice Square in the heart of the city. The neighborhood is not far from some of the city’s most famous sites like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Campo de Fiori.

If you are up for a bit of walking, you can make your way to the neighborhood on foot. The area is just a 20-minute walk away from the Colosseum. There are also multiple nearby bus stops if you want to take public transportation. The following bus stops are near Petroselli, Foro Olitorio, P.Za Monte Savello and Lgt. De’Cenci.

You can also reach the Jewish Ghetto by car. If you drive yourself, you can try to find parking nearby. Otherwise, a taxi or rideshare can drop you off in the neighborhood.

What can you see and do in Rome's Jewish Ghetto?

Within the Jewish Ghetto, you can have a variety of cultural, religious and culinary experiences in Rome. One of the most popular places to visit is the Tempio Maggiore, a large synagogue in the heart of the neighborhood. The Jewish Museum and Spanish Temple sit in the basement of the synagogue.

You can also wander among the ruins of the Portico d’Ottavia. The ruins used to house a fish market and eventually a church. Many visitors also make their way to the Teatro Marcello (Little Colosseum). You can also see the Turtle Fountain and make your way to Tiber Island, the smallest inhabited island in the world.

The Jewish Ghetto is also well-known for its delicacies. You will find a handful of small restaurants and cafes in the neighborhood, so we also recommend trying some local cuisine!

What are the best Jewish Ghetto tours in Rome?

Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere walking tour

On these tours, you will make your way around the neighborhood with a professional guide. The guide will explain how the neighborhood came to be and the painful history of its inhabitants. You will explore the area on foot and make your way to the synagogue, the former ghetto and the Museo Ebraico.

Some of these day tours also include Trastevere neighborhood visits. Many people regard this area as the most authentic Roman city district. You can book a tour that just visits the Jewish Ghetto, or you can select a combination tour that also visits Trastevere.

Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto private walking tour

This private walking tour in Rome is a great option for travelers who want to experience the neighborhoods in a more intimate setting. Your guide will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto neighborhoods.

There, you will learn about the history of each area and visit key sites like Largo di Torre Argentina, Palazzo Farnese, Via Portico d'Ottavia, Tempio Maggiore di Roma and Teatro di Marcello.

Golf cart tour of the Jewish Ghetto in Rome

If you want a bit more excitement, consider booking a Jewish Ghetto golf cart tour! Instead of walking, you will make your way through the neighborhood on a golf cart. This tour stops at Trastevere, Fontana delle Tartarughe, Ghetto Ebraico and Teatro di Marcello.

Food tour in Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto

Since the Jewish Ghetto is also a culinary hub, what better way to explore the area than on a food tour in Rome? You have many options to choose from, such as wine tours, street food tours, dinner experiences, cooking classes and a Roman food tour.

You get to learn about the history of the Jewish Ghetto and its inhabitants while enjoying all of the neighborhood delicacies!

Jewish Ghetto free walking tour in Rome

Free walking tours in Rome are becoming more popular and you can participate in a tour at no cost, but be prepared to tip your tour guide based on their service.

You will spend one to two hours exploring the neighborhood, visiting the important sites and learning about the history on this Roman Jewish Ghetto free walking tour. These tours are a cost-effective option to explore the Jewish Ghetto with a professional guide.

What are the prices of Jewish Ghetto tours?

The cost of a Jewish Ghetto tour in Rome varies depending on how long it lasts, how many stops it includes, if there are any food or drink tastings, and whether or not it is a private tour. Most of the tours range anywhere from €3 to €645.

You can also join a free walking tour for no cost besides the tip you give to the tour guide.

Where do Jewish Ghetto tours start in Rome?

Each tour operator has a different starting point. Some offer pickup and drop-off directly at your accommodation, while others require you to meet at a designated spot. Your tour operator will communicate these details with you ahead of time.

If you book a group tour, you can expect to meet directly at the Jewish Ghetto. Private tours typically include hotel pickup.

When is the best time to tour the Jewish Ghetto in Rome?

You can find a tour of the Jewish Ghetto at almost any time of the day. Most tours last anywhere from one to three hours. You can decide which tour fits the best in your schedule and book accordingly.

We recommend taking a Jewish Ghetto tour towards the beginning of your trip so you can familiarize yourself with the area immediately.

Know before you go

Book your free walking tour in advance to reserve a spot on the tour.
Wear comfortable walking shoes because most tours take place on foot!
Stop into one of the local restaurants or bakeries, even if it is not included in your tour. You won’t be disappointed!
Wear a lot of sunscreen, especially if you book an afternoon tour.

Jewish Ghetto: Tours and Guided Visits