Rome Love & Sex History Walking Tour: Pantheon, Campo de' Fiori

Summary

Explore Ancient Roman Romance & Seduction in the City Center

If you want to see Rome through its secret love stories—not just ruins—this tour is for you. You’ll walk ancient streets, hear real tales of romance and scandal from a local guide, and discover hidden corners most visitors miss.

What’s the experience like?

Right from the first step onto the cobbled streets near Piazza Farnese, you can feel that old Roman mischief in the air. Our guide—Francesca, who grew up just around Trastevere—didn’t waste time with textbook history. She pointed to Palazzo Farnese and told us about Giulia Farnese, whose affair with Pope Borgia was the talk of the town centuries ago. You could almost picture them sneaking glances behind those heavy wooden doors. The square itself buzzes with locals chatting over espresso, but if you listen closely, you’ll catch snippets of gossip that haven’t changed much since Giulia’s day.

Campo de' Fiori was next, and honestly, it’s hard to imagine this busy market square used to be the site of the grand Pompey Theatre. Francesca read us a few lines from Ovid—apparently, this was where young Romans came to flirt and mingle (and maybe get into trouble). The smell of fresh bread from Forno Campo de’ Fiori mixed with street musicians playing nearby made it easy to picture the scene back then: laughter, stolen glances, maybe even a bit of drama under those old arches.

We ducked into Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva for a quick break from the sun (it gets warm even in spring). Inside, Francesca explained how wedding traditions worked here—dowries, matchmaking, all those little rituals families kept secret. There’s a cool hush in the church, broken only by footsteps echoing on marble floors. I noticed a tiny plaque by the entrance about local brides—something I’d never have spotted without her.

The last stop was the Pantheon. It’s always crowded out front, but Francesca found us a quiet corner and shared the story of Emperor Hadrian and his lover Antinous. I’d heard about Hadrian before but never knew he had Antinous deified after his mysterious death. Standing under that massive dome, it hit me how personal these stories really are—love, loss, even jealousy—they’re as old as Rome itself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ancient Rome Love and History Tour

• Introduction and overview
• Visit Palazzo Farnese, Giulia Farnese's residence
• Explore Campo de' Fiori, site of Pompey Theatre
• Discover wedding traditions at Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva
• See the Pantheon and learn about Emperor Hadrian's lover

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Many people join alone and end up chatting with others along the way. The guide makes everyone feel welcome.

Can I bring my stroller or wheelchair?

Yes, all areas are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The route is flat and manageable for all fitness levels.

Are photos allowed during the tour?

Yes, you're free to take pictures at every stop. Just remember some churches may ask for quiet inside.

Is food included?

No meals are included but you'll pass plenty of local bakeries and cafés where you can buy snacks or drinks (cash is easiest).

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable shoes are best since there’s a fair bit of walking on uneven ground. Bring water if it’s hot out!

What’s included

Your own local guide leads this private walking tour through Rome’s historic center. Wheelchair and stroller friendly; service animals welcome; public transport nearby; suitable for all fitness levels (except kids under 16). Photos allowed throughout. Food isn’t included but you’ll find plenty of tasty options along the way—just bring some cash for quick bites or drinks.