Viator Viator Travel Blog

I love it when a book I’ve enjoyed is turned into a movie, though I’ve just discovered an even better way to extend my enjoyment: the official tour. And this one — the Angels & Demons tour in Rome — is so good the movie’s producer (Ron Howard) and star (Tom Hanks) have both done it… and loved it, which is not hard to understand.

One of the most visible clues on the Path of Illumination

Although the story starts in Geneva (at CERN), almost all the action is in Rome, which makes for a wonderful tour route across the city. From the previously unheralded church of Santa Maria del Popollo to the Pantheon, Piazza Verona and St. Peter’s Square, the tour combines great sights with a retelling of the story that makes it come alive in a way no movie ever could.

Of course the movie will be cool, too (it’s scheduled for release in May 2009). But there’s no substitute for actually being here. Guides on this tour know the story inside out and read key passages as you go along; they also know Rome like the back of their hand and will tackle your questions about the city, the book, the history of Rome or how Popes get elected… it’s all good!

This audio slideshow will give you an idea of the sights you’ll see on this tour, which operates four days a week and is often booked out well in advance (so book early).

-Rod Cuthbert

For more ideas see Viator’s complete list of things to do in Rome, tours in Venice, what to do in Florence, and tours & attractions in Italy. You can also browse more Viator Video’s on the Viator YouTube channel.