If Gladiator II left you dreaming about ancient Rome and Mediterranean sunsets (same here), you’re probably not alone. Ridley Scott brought Paul Mescal into the arena, and the whole thing was absolutely epic.
But here’s what really stayed with me: the locations. Because while Hollywood can work magic with CGI, there’s nothing quite like standing in the actual places where history happened—and where they filmed some of the most breathtaking scenes.
So whether you’re a die-hard Gladiator fan or you just love the idea of exploring ancient ruins without the crowds, here’s how to experience Rome and Malta the way they deserve to be experienced: slowly, luxuriously, and with plenty of “I can’t believe I’m actually here” moments.
Rome: Where History Never Left
Let’s be honest—Rome is one of those cities that never stops giving. Every corner has a story, every piazza has a secret, and somehow it manages to feel both ancient and alive at the same time.
The Colosseum (Obviously)
You can’t talk about Gladiator without talking about the Colosseum. This is where it all went down—the real gladiator battles, the drama, the spectacle that defined an empire.
Here’s how to do it right:
Skip the tourist shuffle. Book private early-morning or after-hours access, which means you get to walk through the arena floor and the underground chambers without fighting through selfie sticks. It’s just you, the stones, and 2,000 years of history echoing around you.
Trust me—experiencing the Colosseum in near-silence is a completely different thing than visiting during peak hours. You’ll actually feel the weight of what happened here.
The Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
This is where emperors lived, where power shifted, where history literally happened. The Forum is a maze of ancient temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches, and Palatine Hill offers some of the best views over the city.
Insider tip:
Consider securing an archaeologist or historian as your guide. They can bring these ruins to life in ways a standard tour never will. Suddenly, those crumbling columns become palaces, and you can almost hear the Senate debates echoing through the stones.
Beyond the Big Sites
Rome isn’t just about the ancient stuff (though let’s be real, that’s pretty great). You’ll want to include:
- Private food tours through Trastevere where you’ll eat like an actual Roman (not a tourist)
- Sunset aperitivos with views that’ll make you want to move here permanently
- Hidden churches and neighborhoods that most visitors never see
Insider tip:
Rome can feel overwhelming if you’re trying to “do it all.” Focus on curating experiences that let you slow down, soak it in, and actually enjoy yourself instead of running from landmark to landmark like you’re checking boxes.
Malta: The Mediterranean’s Best-Kept Secret
Okay, confession time: I’ve been curious about Malta ever since I learned how many epic movies filmed here. This tiny Mediterranean island nation has more history per square mile than almost anywhere else on Earth, and it doubled as ancient Rome in both Gladiator films.
Fort Ricasoli
This massive 17th-century fortification became the arena and the streets of Rome in the original Gladiator, and it’s back for the sequel. Standing here, you can see why Ridley Scott fell in love with the place—it’s got that timeless, ancient feel that no sound stage can replicate.
What makes it special:
Fort Ricasoli isn’t a typical tourist site. It’s still used for film productions, which means you might need some insider access to explore it properly. Worth arranging in advance through a local contact or specialized travel advisor.
Valletta: Baroque Beauty Meets Ancient Vibes
Malta’s capital city is a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason. The honey-colored limestone buildings, the narrow streets, the fortifications—it all feels like you’ve stepped back in time.
Here’s what to include:
- Private walking tours with local historians who know every secret passage and hidden courtyard
- Access to private palazzos not open to the public
- Sunset drinks at rooftop bars overlooking the Grand Harbour (because you deserve it)
Mdina: The Silent City
This medieval walled city is one of the most atmospheric places I’ve ever been. It’s called “The Silent City” because cars aren’t allowed, and walking through its narrow streets at golden hour feels like time travel.
Insider secret:
Most tour groups visit during the day when it’s packed. Plan to experience Mdina at sunrise or late afternoon when the light is perfect and the crowds have disappeared. Game-changer.
Blue Lagoon & Comino
After all that history, you’ll probably want some beach time. The Blue Lagoon is one of those places where the water is so impossibly turquoise you’ll think someone Photoshopped or somehow performed an AI trick real life.
How to do it right:
Book a private boat charter to avoid the ferry crowds and actually enjoy the experience. Pack a gourmet picnic, find a quiet cove, and soak in the Mediterranean magic.
Sample 10-Day Rome & Malta Itinerary
Days 1-3: Rome – The Eternal City
- Private Colosseum experience (early access or after-hours)
- Roman Forum & Palatine Hill with an archaeologist guide
- Trastevere food tour and sunset aperitivos
- Stay: Luxury hotel near Spanish Steps or Villa Borghese
Days 4-5: Rome – Hidden Gems & Leisure
- Vatican Museums (private access if you can swing it)
- Borghese Gallery private tour
- Day trip to Ostia Antica (ancient Rome’s port city—way less crowded than Pompeii)
Days 6-8: Malta – Ancient Meets Mediterranean
- Fly to Malta (it’s not far)
- Fort Ricasoli private tour
- Valletta walking tour with palazzo access
- Private boat trip to Blue Lagoon
- Stay: Boutique hotel in Valletta or luxury resort in St. Julian’s
Days 9-10: Mdina & Malta’s Countryside
- Sunrise in the Silent City
- Wine tasting at local vineyards
- Private cooking class with Maltese chef
- Farewell dinner overlooking the Mediterranean
When to Go
Best time for Rome: Spring (April-May) or Fall (September-October) for perfect weather and fewer crowds.
Best time for Malta: May-June or September-October. Summer is gorgeous but can be hot and busy.
Inside tip:
If you want to avoid peak tourist season but still have great weather, late September through October is absolutely ideal for both destinations.
Making It Happen
Look, you could absolutely piece together a trip to Rome and Malta on your own. But the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one often comes down to the details:
✨ Private access to sites that are usually packed with tourists
✨ Local experts who bring history to life instead of just reciting dates
✨ Thoughtfully curated experiences that flow naturally instead of feeling rushed
✨ Insider connections that open doors (literally) to places most people never see
✨ Someone handling the logistics so you can actually enjoy yourself
If you want help designing a trip that feels less like checking boxes and more like stepping into history, that’s exactly what we do.
Ready to channel your inner gladiator? (Minus the mortal combat part.) We’d be happy to talk!
