Rome: Forbidden History Walking Tour & Pub Crawl with Drinks

If you’re curious about the sexy, scandalous, and sometimes downright shocking side of Rome’s past, this Forbidden History Walking Tour & Pub Crawl offers a unique way to experience the city after dark. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about stories you probably won’t learn in textbooks, served up with a good dose of local drinks and lively company.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines history, social bonding, and a taste of Rome’s vibrant nightlife. Plus, the fact that there’s an option for non-alcoholic drinks makes it accessible for everyone. That said, it’s definitely geared toward those who enjoy a good story and a drink—so if you’re not a fan of walking or social drinking, it might not be your perfect fit.

A possible consideration is the timing—you’ll want to arrive on time, as late arrivals aren’t eligible for refunds. Also, the tour is quite social and energetic, which is fantastic if you’re up for it, but might be a little overwhelming if you prefer quieter evenings.

This tour suits travelers looking for a fun, informal way to explore Rome’s darker side while making new friends. Whether you’re solo, in a couple, or traveling with friends, it offers a memorable glimpse into the city’s hidden stories—served up with drinks and good vibes.

Key Points

• Authentic Italian drinks like spritz, wine, and sambuca are included, with options for non-drinkers.
• Learn about Rome’s scandalous past through stories of power struggles, red-light districts, and infamous characters.
• Experience Rome’s nightlife in trendy, atmospheric bars in Monti, one of the city’s coolest neighborhoods.
• Meet like-minded travelers and make memories during a lively, social evening.
• Flexible options available for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
• Duration of 3 hours makes it a manageable yet immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This walking tour kicks off in Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, a lively spot in one of Rome’s trendiest districts. When you arrive, you’ll meet your guide—usually lively, knowledgeable, and ready to share some of the city’s darker tales. The group size tends to be small enough for a personal touch but lively enough to create a fun atmosphere, as many reviews mention groups bonding well and guides keeping everyone engaged.

From there, you’ll stroll into Monti, a neighborhood famous for its bohemian vibe and gritty past. Historically known as a red-light district, Monti’s reputation is woven into the stories your guide will share—about gamblers, gangsters, and sex workers who once roamed these streets. These tales aren’t just for shock value; they help paint a picture of a city that’s had its fair share of scandal.

Throughout the walk, your guide will take you into atmospheric bars, some tucked away in narrow alleyways, others with lively, modern interiors. Here, you’ll sample authentic Italian drinks like local wine, spritz, and sambuca. Many reviews highlight how good the drinks are—people mention trying a variety of spirits and enjoying the chance to taste some regional specialties. The inclusion of non-alcoholic options is a thoughtful touch, making sure everyone can participate and stay safe while still enjoying the social aspect.

The stories shared by guides—often humorous and engaging—are a standout feature. Reviewers praise guides like Michelle, Ana, Autumn, and Michal for their charisma, humor, and knowledge. Comments like “Michelle was amazing and can make a crowd laugh” and “Michal was an excellent guide, full of energy” show how much personality guides bring to the experience. These lively narrations turn what could be a conventional walk into an entertaining storytelling session.

As the tour winds through the city’s evening atmosphere, you get a chance to see Rome after dark—illuminated streets, buzzing bars, and the contrast between the old and new. The final stop at Piazza Venezia leaves you right in the heart of the city, perfect for continuing your night if you wish.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For the price of around $73.64 per person, you get quite a bit. The tour includes a guided walk, local guides, and a variety of alcoholic beverages—local wine, spritz, Carpano Classico, sambuca, and limoncello. For those who prefer to skip alcohol, the availability of non-alcoholic drinks makes this accessible for everyone.

Other perks are the scandalous stories that spice up the evening, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at Rome’s more mischievous side. The tour is designed as a social experience rather than a typical sightseeing walk, so you’ll meet people from all over the world, share drinks, and swap stories.

However, additional drinks are not included, so if you want to keep the night going or try more cocktails, you’ll need to pay extra. The tour runs for about 3 hours, which means enough time to enjoy the atmosphere without it feeling rushed.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

• Start at Piazza della Madonna dei Monti: Here, your group will gather with your guide, setting the tone for a relaxed but lively evening.
• Strolling through Rione Monti: As you move into this historic area, your guide will tell stories about its red-light past, gangsters, and scandalous characters. The charm of Monti shines through with its mixture of ancient ruins and trendy spots.
• Atmospheric Bar Stops: Expect visits to cozy, lively bars where you’ll taste authentic Italian drinks. Many reviewers mention how good the drinks are—some call them “delicious,” “authentic,” and “well-chosen.” The guides make the experience engaging, often sharing fun facts about each drink.
• Final stop at Piazza Venezia: The tour concludes here, right in the heart of Rome, leaving you free to explore more or head back.

The Vibe and Guides: The Heart of the Tour

Most reviews rave about the guides, describing them as fun, friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. Guides like Autumn, Michal, Michelle, Ana, and others seem to hit the perfect balance between storytelling, humor, and local insights. Many reviewers say guides “made the night,” kept everyone laughing, and helped the group bond quickly.

This social element is what makes the tour stand out. It’s not just about the dark stories but also about connecting with fellow travelers over shared drinks and laughs. Several reviews mention how this led to friendships and memorable nights.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re keen on exploring a different side of Rome—the darker, more scandalous tales—while enjoying a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s well-suited for solo travelers, groups of friends, or couples who want a lively evening. The inclusion of non-alcoholic options makes it accessible, but be prepared for a fun, energetic vibe.

Keep in mind that the tour not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, so it’s mainly geared toward adult travelers. If you’re looking for a quiet night of sightseeing, this probably isn’t it. But if you’re open to a night of stories, drinks, and making new friends, you’ll find this tour a memorable part of your Roman adventure.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

If you enjoy stories with a bit of spice, a lively social scene, and sampling some of Italy’s best drinks, this Forbidden History & Pub Crawl hits the mark. It’s a well-reviewed, engaging way to see Rome from a different perspective, especially after dark when the city’s ambiance transforms.

The guides consistently impress with their energy and storytelling, turning a simple walk into an entertaining experience. The inclusion of non-alcoholic drinks means everyone can participate without feeling left out. The price is reasonable considering the length, drinks, and stories, making it a good value for those seeking a fun, social night.

This tour is best for travelers who want a mix of history, humor, and nightlife—perfect for curious minds and social butterflies eager to connect over drinks and tales. If that sounds like your idea of a good evening, this is definitely worth considering.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for sober travelers?
Yes, there are non-alcoholic beverage options available, so you can enjoy the social aspect without drinking alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, from the meet-up in Piazza della Madonna dei Monti to the end at Piazza Venezia.

Do I need to arrive early?
Yes, arriving about 10 minutes before the scheduled start time is recommended. Late arrivals aren’t eligible for refunds, so punctuality is key.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. The tour offers non-alcoholic drinks, and the stories and atmosphere are just as engaging without alcohol.

Is it suitable for families?
No, this tour is designed for adults aged 18 and over, primarily because of the content and alcohol.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are advised, as it involves walking through the city streets after dark.

In summary, this Rome Forbidden History Walking Tour & Pub Crawl is a fantastic choice if you want to experience Rome’s darker stories in a lively, social setting. With engaging guides, authentic drinks, and a chance to meet fellow travelers, it offers a memorable night in the Eternal City for those eager for something beyond the usual sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: