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How To Visit the Colosseum in 2024: Tickets, Hours, and Tours

Sean Finelli Last Updated: January 8, 2024

Approximately 16,000 people visit the Colosseum every day and even with the internet at their fingertips most show up without tickets. Lines for admission are long, days hot, and it gets crowded. On the upside, you’re reading this article which means you are planning ahead. Here is how to visit the Colosseum in Rome without waiting in line.

Pro Tip: Planning can be tough, but it’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post along with our dedicated guide to planning your visit to Rome , where you’ll find everything you need. Also, check out our article on the best Colosseum tours .

Visiting the Colosseum: What We’ll Cover

Beginning in A.D. 72, it took a decade and 60,000 slaves to construct the largest amphitheater in the world. It’s no wonder everyone who visits Rome wants to visit the Colosseum! By far the best way to visit the structure is to do a Colosseum tour . They are our most popular experiences and really make the visit more comfortable and fun.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know when visiting the Colosseum. Be sure to check out our dedicated Colosseum guide for more tips and information.

• Facts and history of the Colosseum
• Opening hours and tickets
• How long to budget for your visit
• How to get to the Colosseum
• What to see at Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum
• Guided tour options
• Places to eat nearby

Not ready to book a tour? Find out why a Colosseum tour is worth it .

Facts and History of the Colosseum

Domus Aurea and Nero’s Fire

Domus Aurea translates to the House of Gold and was a great sprawling palace built by Emperor Nero. He built it in the area affected by the great fire of A.D. 64, down the valley between the Palatine, Esquiline, and Caelian Hills. This is why Nero was famously blamed for causing the fire.  Historians speculate his golden compound was between 100 and 300 acres in the center of Rome. Much of the compound was dismantled after Nero’s death by one Emperor after another. Vespasian most famously removed a massive lake Nero had built to construct the Colosseum.

Construction

Construction on the Colosseum began in A.D. 72 by Emperor Vespasian, the first of three Flavian Dynasty Emperors. Titus had just returned from a major victory in Jerusalem with an estimated 60,000 Jewish slaves. The building was completed in A.D. 80 but modifications and upgrades were made under Emperor Domitian.

Why Was the Colosseum Built?  

Estimates place Colosseum occupancy between 50,000 and 80,000 people. It was built to host events of bloodshed and battle, which were extremely popular throughout the Roman Empire. The Romans were war-loving people and the games represented that. Gladiatorial fights came in all different types from 1:1 fights to full battles, including naval battles .

Flavian Amphitheatre

If you construct a building as epic as the Colosseum, you’re going to want to put your name on it. The Flavian dynasty did, but the name was eventually forgotten and replaced by a nickname—the Colosseum. Nero built a massive statue outside the Colosseum, known as the Colossal Statue of Nero! It was a 30-meter tall bronze statue of the sun god Sole with Nero’s head perched on top. The statue may have survived until the 5th century when it was most likely dismantled during one of the three major sacks of Rome. It was long enough to all but erase the Flavian dynasty’s legacy from history.

The Last Games

The last recorded game inside the Colosseum was on January 1st A.D. 404. Saint Telemachus apparently tried to stop a fight in the Colosseum midway through and was stoned to death. At the time, Rome was ruled by Christians. Emperor Honorius did nothing to stop the martyrdom, which happened in A.D. 391, but it is written that the event inspired and changed him and eventually he brought an end to the fighting.

Earthquakes and Damage

The Colosseum has lived a good long life. For a 2000-year-old complex monument, it’s in great shape. There were a number of major earthquakes after the glory of the Roman Empire that caused damage: A powerful quake in A.D. 443 followed by two more in A.D. 484 and A.D. 508. Repairs would have been made, however, and the human vs. animal games would have continued until A.D. 523. For the next 700 years, things were calm but the building became a sort of stone quarry for many who were looking to make a living or create art. After a serious amount of self-inflicted damage by Romans, a quake in 1349 caused the southern third of the Colosseum to collapse.

The Colosseum Quarry

The quake of 1349 was probably good news for many who were building in Rome. Materials that were out of reach were now on the ground and accessible. They were used for art, buildings, and much of what you see in Rome. This continued for over 400 years until Pope Benedict XIV decreed in 1749 that the Colosseum was a sacred site of Christian martyrdom and was no longer allowed to be vandalized. There are many arguments that Christians never died in the Colosseum, but nevertheless, Pope Benedict XIV saved the Colosseum.

Restorations

Soon after the decree of 1749, popes began commissioning projects to restore the Colosseum. There was heavy foliage and plant life growing inside the Colosseum, which would have tremendous negative effects on the building over time. These were removed, and in 1807 a project began to reinforce the outer ring of the Colosseum, which can be seen today. 

Triangular brick support now reinforces the Colosseum. There were also excavations that took place throughout the 19th century. After over a thousand years of abusing the structure due to poor economic conditions, it was finally time to preserve it. By the 1930s, the Colosseum looked very similar to what you see today—other than some cool things like a replica of a trap door and an elevator being built into the stage.

Two major cleaning projects happened in our era: from 1993 to 2000 and another in 2013, which was sponsored by Tod’s shoe company, an ultra-popular Italian designer.

Interior Improvements 

Restorations have been made to the arena floor, underground, and on the third, fourth, and fifth levels that allow tours to explore these areas. Companies like ours are now able to run extremely cool and exclusive tours to these restricted areas.

Colosseum Opening Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:

The Colosseum opens daily at 9 am and closes 1 hour before sunset daily. Be sure to check the official website for up-to-date information as the hours vary seasonally.

Admission to the Colosseum includes the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum. They are visible from the Colosseum but fenced into a different area. Once you enter Palatine Hill, you can visit the Forum without exiting the fenced-in area. They are connected by the Via Sacra. Once there, you will easily find your way.

• 24h Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Ticket: €16 (plus €2 online booking fee) Valid for one day.
• Full Experience Ticket: €22 (plus €2 online booking fee) Valid for 2 days from first use and includes access to the Arena and Underground.
• Reduced Ticket: €2 (plus €2 online booking fee) for EU citizens ages 18 – 25 with ID and proof of citizenship
• Free for under 18s

We urge you to purchase a Colosseum tour or Colosseum tickets in advance if you are planning a visit during warmer months as lines can be very long.

Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1

How Long To Spend at the Colosseum

Short Answer:  2 to 3 hours

The Colosseum is massive for a 2,000-year-old stadium. Once inside, there are tons of things to do, depending on which type of ticket you get. With general admission, you’ll have access to the first and second floors.

If you join a guided tour of the Colosseum , you can visit the arena floor, underground, and top tiers. At times, as high as the fifth tier—which is very cool!

You should plan on spending at least 60 minutes in each area, give or take. If you bring a snack, you could easily walk around and explore the entire ancient city for 4 or 5 hours. And bringing a reusable water bottle is a must. There are fountains at the Colosseum and Roman Forum you can use to refill your bottle when needed.

How To Get To the Colosseum

The metro is by far the easiest way to arrive. Metro line B stops at the Colosseo station. As soon as you walk outside, it’s the first huge ancient amphitheater on the left.

The bus is also pretty easy. Many buses run by the Colosseum, but check the bus map and make sure the bus number you are about to get on goes by Colosseo. Here are a few buses that pass by the Colosseum in Rome: 40, 51, 60, 75, 81, 175, and 204.

The Colosseum is at the center of three intersecting roads and is easily reachable on foot.  Via di Fori Imperiali, Via Labicana, and Via Celio Vibenna all sort of wrap around the structure. If you can find one of those roads, you’ll most likely be able to see the Colosseum and take it from there.

Obviously, using a map app on your phone is a great way to get around. If you are a bus person, Roma Bus is the top free app.

Top Colosseum Tours

Best Seller

Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

This is our most popular Colosseum tour due to the incredible access to non-public areas like the underground chambers. All admissions are included and it is lead by an English speaking licensed guided and Colosseum expert.

Customer Favorite

Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour Through the Gladiator’s Gate

You’ll enter the Colosseum through the back door entrance avoiding lines and crowds, which is ideal! You’ll step through the gladiator’s gate and your English-speaking Colosseum guide will bring the stories to life. Next, on to the Roman Forum. All admissions are included.

What To See at the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum

Below is an itinerary of 29 things you should see while visiting the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. Follow our list on your visit and enjoy exploring this monumental wonder! If you are looking for more in-depth descriptions of each place, be sure to check out our list of the top things to see at the Colosseum .

Outside the Colosseum 

1. the base of the colossal statue of nero.

Right across from the Colosseum metro station and in front of the Colosseum is the base of the Colossal Statue of Nero. It isn’t much to look at today, but an important element to pass by on your way in. You’ll see a plaque reading “Area Del Basamento del Colosseo di Nerone.”

2. The Arch of Constantine

Flavius Valerius Constantinus or Constantine the Great to most of us was the first Christian Emperor of Rome. A triumphant arch was built and dedicated to him for his victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in A.D. 312. It is an epic arch right in front of the Colosseum.

3. The Outer Ring

The first thing you’ll notice when you get closer to the Colosseum is that it was built from multiple rings to support seating. The remaining portion of the outer ring will be facing you as you walk out of the metro station and definitely puts this building into perspective. Three sets of arches stand on top of one another to form the 159-foot tall outer ring.

4. Ludus Magnus

Just across from the Colosseum on Via di San Giovanni in Laterano sits the remains of the Ludus Magnus, which was the closest and greatest gladiator training school in the empire. It has many cells for slaves and even an underground tunnel directly connected to the Colosseum.

5. Flavian Amphitheatre Plaque

An important thing to note is that the Colosseum is only a nickname for the structure. The building is actually named the Flavian Amphitheatre after the dynasty that built it. See the plaque attached to the middle ring of the Colosseum directly facing the Temple of Venus.

Inside the Colosseum 

6. the arena floor.

The word  arena means sand, and the Colosseum is apparently where the use of the word derives. They’d say, “down on the arena,” which referred to the sand that covered the stage. Now we use the word when referring to stadiums as a whole like “basketball arena,” for example. You can’t access this area with general admission, but we have a guided tour that takes you onto the arena floor !

7. The Underground (Hypogeum)

Yes, underneath the Colosseum there is a complex labyrinth of tunnels that were used by gladiators and event organizers. It is without a doubt the most exclusive area of the Colosseum. General admission won’t get you there, but we have a Colosseum Underground tour that takes you there.

8. The Cross

In the year 2000, a cross was placed inside the Colosseum in memory of all the Christian martyrs that were killed inside the Colosseum. While it is almost definite that Christian slaves died inside the Colosseum, it is dubious they died because they were Christian. The Romans didn’t really care about the Christians or persecute them heavily.

9. Second Floor Exhibit of Colosseum: Concession Stand Food and Drink

Find the elevator inside the Colosseum on the second floor. There you will find some very cool artefacts, including cups and spoons used inside the building. There were concession stands similar to a modern stadium that sold all types of foods, including oysters! We’re not as different as you’d think.

10. Second Floor Balcony

Once out of the concession stand area, look down at the center of the Colosseum and head clock-wise. When you get to the apex of the ellipse you’ll find an awesome balcony to snap a pick. Look down to your right and you’ll see a reconstruction of some of the original seats of the Colosseum.

11. Third, Fourth, and Fifth Floors (currently closed)

These areas are often closed, but if they are open during your visit, try to secure access to the top tiers of the Colosseum. You’ll find yourself at a far higher altitude than expected. The view is amazing, but you’d be where the slaves and lowest citizens sat. We have a tour that covers the area. If you see departure times that means it’s open. It also includes the Underground and Arena Floor.

On Palatine Hill

From the Colosseum exit, head to the Palatine Hill entrance with your Colosseum admission ticket. You can find this entrance on Via di San Gregorio, 30 .

12. Claudian Aqueduct

Aqua Claudia was one of the four great Roman aqueducts. Caligula started the project and Claudius completed it. It is approximately 43 miles long (69 kilometers), most of which is underground.

The duct emerges from the ground as it reaches Rome and, where the ground slopes downward, it reaches over 100 feet (32 meters) high. This was an important detail if you wanted to get good water pressure on the top of a hill. You’ll see a piece of this structure after entering the Palatine Hill entrance

13. Hippodrome Circus of Domitian

From here, head up the hill until you see the massive Hippodrome of Domitian—a private events stadium for the famed emperor of Rome and the last of the Flavians.

14. Caldrons for Heating Floors

They won’t look like much, but as you pass by the north-facing end of the Hippodrome (the only way you can walk) you’ll see some ruins on your right.  These are caldrons for heating water. When Domitian built his palace, he wanted heated floors. Don’t we all!

15. Mosiac Palace Floors

As you pass into the Domus Augustana or House of Augustus, be sure to look down and see mosaic floors beneath you. Know that many famed personalities in Rome from the first, second, and third centuries would have walked on these same pieces of tile.

16. Circus Maximus Balcony

As you walk across the hill, step inside the walls of the palaces and head towards the Circus Maximus. You’ll be standing on a massive balcony, which was part of the structure of the Temple of Apollo and has the best view of the Circus Maximus.

17. Casa di Livia

Attached to the House of Augustus on the east-facing hill, you’ll find the Casa di Livia. If timed correctly, you can get inside and see some amazing frescoes dating back thousands of years.

In the Roman Forum

18. arch of titus.

Walking down into the Forum, you’ll find the Arch of Titus. It was built to commemorate Titus’ famed victory that quelled the revolt in Jerusalem. He brought 60,000 slaves and uncountable wealth back to Rome, which resulted in the Colosseum being built.

19. Via Sacra

The road running through the arch is known as the Via Sacra. It is a sacred and triumphant road that the victorious walk down when returning from battle.

20. Temple of Venus 

With the Arch of Titus at your back and the Colosseum in front of you, you’ll see a structure to your left. Head to that building and work your way towards the Colosseum. There is a great balcony to take a picture from (see the feature image for this article). The Temple of Venus, built under Emperor Hadrian, was a massive temple with a great view of the Colosseum.

21. Basilica of Constantine (Temple of Maxentius)

As you leave the Temple of Venus the way you came in, you’ll see a massive structure on your right. That is the remains of the Basilica of Constantine. The structure was started by Maxentius. Unfortunately for him, Constantine beat him in battle and made sure to name the building after the victor, himself.

22. Temple of Romulus

Don’t mistake this with the Romulus who founded Rome. This temple was dedicated to Valerius Romulus who was the son of Maxentius and ultimately deified. Eventually, paganism was outlawed and this temple was converted to the Basilica os Santi Coma e Damiano. The bronze doors are said to be original to the A.D. 309 structure.

23. Temple of Antoninus and Faustina

This temple was built in A.D. 141 by Emperor Antoninus Pius for his late wife who was deified. Upon the death and deification of Antoninus, his name was added to the temple.

24. Temple of the Vestas and Eternal Flame of Rome

While facing the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, turn around and you’ll see a circular altar in a shaded area on a slight hill. This is where the vestal virgins cared for the famed Eternal Flame of Rome.

25. Temple of Julius Caesar

Possibly the main event for many lovers of Roman history, the Temple of Julius Caesar is in the center of the Roman Forum for all to worship. You’ll still find flowers on his altar from the many Romans who thank him for what he accomplished.

26. The Curia (Senate House)

One of the best-preserved structures in the Forum due to many renovations, this building is the famous place where Roman senators argued, postured, and debated.

27. Arch of Septimius Severus

To the left of the Curia, you’ll find the massive Arch of Septimius Severus constructed in A.D. 203. This arch became the model for the Arch of Constantine 100 years later, which is more visible in front of the Colosseum. It was built to commemorate the Parthian victories of Caracalla and Geta, initially joint emperors.

28. Temple of Saturn

Possibly your last stop in the Roman Forum, see the remains of the Temple of Saturn, an ancient Roman temple that dates as early as 497 B.C.

29. Mamertine Prison

Just outside the northern-facing exit of the Forum, you’ll find the Mamertine Prison. It’s not actually inside the structure, so make sure you are ready to leave as you won’t be allowed reentry. According to Christian dogma, St. Peter called this prison home in the first century prior to escaping. You can see the depiction in the Raphael Rooms of the Vatican Museum.

Colosseum Tour Options

Not sure if a Colosseum tour is worth it ? You can purchase Colosseum tickets on your own, but you’re going to miss a lot. Joining a guide elevates the experience and makes it much more memorable, not to mention that it can come with special access.

When you purchase a Colosseum tour from The Roman Guy, you are also reserving a Colosseum ticket. All our tours include an English-speaking guide and you get in without waiting in the admissions line. Here are our best Colosseum tours:

Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (3.5 hours)

This is our best-selling Colosseum tour for good reason. You get access to the main areas of the Colosseum, as well as access to the Underground (hypogeum) and Arena Floor. It is a little on the pricey side due to how difficult it is to acquire these tickets, but the non-stop flow of five-star reviews for this tour tells us it’s worth it. It also includes the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum. 

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (3 hours)

This three-hour journey checks all the must-see boxes on your list for a great price. It includes general access to the Colosseum in a small group of 18 people max. Top-quality English-speaking guides will be with you the entire time. That same guide will then take you to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. It’s a great tour that hits everything you have to see and you’ll have a great time.

Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour Through Gladiator’s Gate (3 hours)

This super popular tour includes special access to the Colosseum and a chance to walk through the gladiator’s gate out onto the reconstructed arena floor where the gladiators fought thousands of years ago! An English-speaking tour guide will be with you the entire time as you continue to explore the Colosseum’s first and second tiers and on to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.  

Colosseum Underground and Belvedere Top Levels Tour (4 hours)

This is everything that the Colosseum Underground tour includes plus access to the Belvedere levels with their beautiful views. These areas are not always open, so make sure you click on the link and check for availability. It is our most inclusive and most expensive Colosseum tour.

VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground and Arena Floor (2.5 hours)

This is our least expensive and most unique way to visit the Colosseum Underground: at night! It’s more of a brief tour that includes a walk above the Forum from the Via dei Fori Imperiali. Then, you enter the Colosseum at night and explore the underground. You’ll also get to walk out onto the arena floor, which is a real treat at night. This tour can start and run pretty late, so be sure to factor that in. Without a doubt, it’s a great and unique way to visit the Colosseum.

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums (7 hours)

This tour is for those who are only in Rome for a day or want to knock out all the site-seeing quickly. It covers all the top monuments in the city, including the Colosseum, Vatican, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and more.

Popular Rome Tours

Try the Best Pizza and Gelato with our Prati Walking Tour

Experience Rome’s authentic flavors with our curated culinary tour of Prati, near the Vatican. Indulge in the finest pizza, pasta, cheese, and wine, including exclusive access to Pizzarium and other hidden gems.

Local Rome Food Tour in Trastevere Neighborhood

Are you looking for the best food tour in Rome? Embark on a Trastevere food tour that offers an excellent introduction to some of the best food in Rome. Led by a local foodie guide, visit some of our favorite restaurants and trattorie in Rome

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Rome tours to take and why .

Places To Eat Nearby

We’ve included a few places nearby the Colosseum where you can get a quick bite to eat or a cup of coffee. For more options, check out our list of the best restaurants near the Colosseum .

Unfortunately, there are currently no snack stands or food and beverage shops in any of the archeological areas. There are a few fountains: One on the 2nd level of the Colosseum by the elevators, one next to the arch of Titus, and the third on the via sacra a few meters down from the arch of Titus. Normally less busy.

Colosseo Metro Caffé: € | Refreshments —Right inside the metro Colosseum, there is a bar that serves coffee, sandwiches, and more. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you want a quick bite to eat before going inside or a snack on the run. You can also grab a beer here and take it with you. You’ll find the café at Piazza del Colosseo 58.

Trattoria Luzzi : € | Light Meals —Some people say this place has gone downhill, but the food tastes the same to me. It’s great for pasta or any other typical Roman dishes. They also serve pizza, which I have surprisingly never had but the prices are good and I am sure the pizza is too.

Ai Tre Scalini : €€ | Dinner and Wine —This is a little further away from the Colosseum on foot, but it’s perfect for a long lunch or dinner. They serve tons of wine by the glass and seasonal dishes. It has a really cozy atmosphere that gets a little crowded, but it’s always worth it.

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Visiting the Colosseum in Rome 2024: A Detailed Guide to Help you Plan Your Visit

Last updated: January 1, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 37 Comments

Visiting the Colosseum in Rome is probably high on your list of sightseeing priorities for your trip to the Italian capital. It’s a fantastic ancient structure which has stood at the heart of the city for over two millennia, and history practically seeps out of it.

Of course, you won’t be the only person with the thought of visiting. The Colosseum is one of the most popular attractions in Rome and has thousands of visitors a day. So many in fact, that in 2019 a visitor cap was imposed, limiting visitor numbers to 3,000 at any given time.

This means that it’s more important than ever to properly plan your visit to the Colosseum. If you don’t, especially in the busy summer months, you run the real risk of missing out on going inside and exploring this incredible building and learning first-hand about its history. Tickets regularly sell out, so you want to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

We’ve visited the Colosseum many times and based on our experiences visiting as well as our time exploring Rome and Italy in general, we wanted to share with you a detailed guide to help you plan your own Colosseum visit. We’ve visited on our own as well on different guided tours.

We’re going to share how to get Colosseum tickets, how long to visit for, our tips for the best guided tours of the Colosseum, the options you have for what to do at the Colosseum, how to skip the lines at the Colosseum, what to do if Colosseum tickets are sold out, and much more.

We’ll also share our tips for visiting the Colosseum, and some more practical information so you get the most out of your time. First though, let’s take a look at what exactly the Colosseum is and why it’s a must visit for your time in Rome.

An Overview of the Colosseum

Built during the height of the Roman Empire , in around 70 AD, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheatre ever built. In Italian, it’s called the C olosseo. 

It was built primarily as a venue for spectators to watch events, most famously gladiator style combat matches. It also played host to battle re-enactments, executions, and theatre dramas. Some also believe it was used for mock sea battles although there is little evidence of this.

The name comes from the fact that it was built next to a gigantic statue of the Emperor Nero which was referred to as the Colossus of Nero, although this statue no longer exists. However, the name Colossus somehow ended up being transferred from the statue to the Colosseum, probably in reference to the large size of the amphitheatre.

When it was built, the official name of the Colosseum was the Flavian Amphitheatre, although it is believed that Romans of the time would have referred to it as the Amphitheatrum Caesareum. It’s also often referred to as the Coliseum, which is a general term for large outdoor stadiums.

The Colosseum was designed to house up to 80,000 spectators (although some say 40,000), putting it on a par with today’s modern sport stadiums. Average audience attendance for events was around 40,000, with attendees including everyone from emperors to working class people.

Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum continued to be used as a space for workshops and other events. In the 12th century it was used as a fortified dwelling by a wealthy family.

Unfortunately, a major earthquake in the middle of the 14th century caused serious damage, and parts of the Colosseum were destroyed. Over the years, the stone of the Colosseum was used for other buildings, leading to much of the structure disappearing.

It wasn’t until the mid 18th century that the value of the Colosseum was recognised, and efforts were put in place to protect it. It was deemed a holy place by the Pope, due to the many Christians who were believed to have died on the arena floor. However, evidence for this is also limited.

The church made efforts to protect the building, and reinforcements and repairs took place throughout the 19th century.

Today, the Colosseum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome, and is visited by millions of people every year. It forms a part of the Historic Centre of Rome UNESCO world heritage site .

Where is the Colosseum

The Colosseum is in the heart of ancient Rome, near other impressive ancient structures like the Roman Forum and Circo Maximus.

The full street address of the Colosseum is Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Comune di Roma RM.

The Colosseum is a little way south-east of attractions like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. Expect it to take around 25 minutes to walk from this part of the city to the Colosseum.

From the Vatican, it’s more like an hours walk to the Colosseum, so public transport, hop on hop off bus or a taxi is definitely going to save you some time.

How to get to the Colosseum

There are a number of options for getting to the Colosseum depending on where you are coming from.

From the popular area containing the Pantheon and out to Piazza Navona, where we often recommend folks look for accommodation, it’s around a 20 – 30 minute walk.

The Colosseum is also served by the Rome Metro , with the Colosseo stop being directly across the street from the Colosseum. Currently, Line B serves this stop.

There are also a number of bus routes that stop at the Colosseum. If you are using the Roma Pass or Rome and Vatican Pass (also known as the Omnia Rome and Vatican Card) these include public transport in the city, making this a cost effective option for getting to the Colosseum.

If you are using one of the Hop on Hop off bus services in Rome, the Colosseum is a stop for the majority of these services. A Hop on Hop of bus is included with the Rome and Vatican Pass, or you can buy a ticket for the HOHO bus here .

Finally, Rome has a lot of taxis, so you can use one of these to get to the Colosseum. Always ensure the meter is running when taking a taxi in Rome.

Colosseum Opening Times

The Colosseum is normally open every day of the year with the exception of the 1st of January and 25th of December.

It opens either at 9am or 8.30am depending on the time of year and usually closes an hour before dusk, which can be between 4.30pm and 7pm.

The last admission to the Colosseum is an hour before closing time.

You can see full opening times for the Colosseum on the official website here .

Note that sometimes public holidays and events can affect opening hours. For example, Republic Day (2nd June) normally involves a large parade, and the Colosseum is often only open on the afternoon on this day. So always check in advance before planning your visit.

What to see and do at the Colosseum

The Colosseum was the largest amphitheater ever built, and as you might imagine, there is lots to see here.

It is divided into a number of main areas. There’s the exterior of the Colosseum, which you can visit without a ticket just to see how impressive this building really is.

Inside the main sections are like a traditional amphitheater or more modern day theatre. There’s the seating section, which is spread across four main levels – with the higher quality seating closer to the arena floor.

There’s the arena area itself, although the floor for this was made of wood and the majority of this has long since perished. A small recreated section can still be seen to get an idea for how it would have looked.

Below the area where the arena was is the hypogeum. This large two storey part of the Colosseum, was originally entirely underneath the arena floor. This was where the combatants, animals and scenery pieces would have been kept.

It is said that in the first design for the arena, this area could be flooded and used for mock sea battles. However, there is little evidence to support this claim, and even if this did happen it was likely very impractical and quickly repurposed with the walls and holding pens as you see it today.

The hypogeum was originally covered by the arena floor, but as that is largely gone now, it is open to the air. So it is quite easy to see into as you tour the upper levels.

When visiting the Colosseum on a normal ticket you get access to first and second floors of the public spectator area, which gives you excellent views of the structure.

It’s also possible to book tickets and take guided tours that include the arena and underground areas. In mid-2021, the underground area that visitors can access expanded greatly following a two-year restoration project.

For a period there was also the possibility to go higher up to the fourth and fifth floors, but this area is under construction as of 2022 and it is unknown if the upper floors will reopen.

See our guide to ticket types and tours for more information.

Finally, it is worth noting that whilst not part of the Colosseum, all tickets to the Colosseum include same-day access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which is right next to the Colosseum. This is where the business of Rome happened, and should also be part of your visit.

You can visit the Roman Forum before visiting the Colosseum as long as you visit on the same day, and remember to observe the timeslot for your Colosseum entry.

How Long to Visit the Colosseum For?

We would suggest that you allocate at least 2 hours for visiting the Colosseum. As well as time spent exploring the actual structure, you also need to consider that it might take a bit of time to get through the security line.

When is the Colosseum Free in 2024?

The Colosseum is free on the first Sunday of the month. On these days, entry is on a first come first served basis with free tickets available at the ticket office in Piazza del Colosseo, located near the Temple of Venus and Rome.

In addition to the first Sunday, in some years the Colosseum has a number of free days each year. However, these have been put on hold as of 2021 and there has not been an update regarding free days for 2024.

For reference, in 2020, the following dates were free for visiting the Colosseum:

• 5th January 2020
• 2nd February 2020
• 1st March 2020
• 9th May 2020
• 5th June 2020
• 29th June 2020
• 23rd September 2020
• 4th October 2020
• 4th November 2020
• 18th December 2020

Note that on the free days, including the free Sunday each month, it is not possible to book a timeslot or reserve access. However, the limit of 3,000 people inside the building still applies.

This means that wait times can be very long and we would generally advise against visiting on the free days if you can help it, unless you are on a very tight budget and have lots of time to spare. In this case, go as early as you can.

Note that the majority of information in this post regarding timeslots, fast track entry and pricing do not apply on the free days. It’s just a question of showing up and waiting in line.

Do You Need a Ticket for the Colosseum?

Everyone visiting the Colosseum needs to be in possession of a ticket, or at least a reservation to visit. If visiting on one of the free days, you get a ticket on site on a first come first served basis.

There are a variety of ticket types available depending on what you want to see, and different prices apply for these.

Even those visitors eligible for free entry need to reserve a timeslot, including children who are eligible for free entry. We cover this process below.

How Much does it Cost to Visit the Colosseum?

Pricing for the Colosseum in 2024 is as follows:

• €18 for adults
• €4 for EU citizens aged 18-25
• Free if under 18

There are a number of other concessions available which you can read about here .

Note that these are the prices if booked on the official website. Third party ticket sites tend to be slightly more expensive but are a good option if there is limited availability on the official site, as there sometimes is.

Third party sites are also a good option if you want to take a guided tour like this one or this one , which honestly is well worth it to understand what you are seeing. More on guided tours further on in this post.

All visitors, including those eligible for free entry, need to book a timeslot for entry.

If you are using the Roma Pass which includes entry to the Colosseum, then you just have to pay a €2 fee to reserve your timeslot online.

See more on how to reserve a time for the Colosseum in the section below on timeslots.

If you choose to take a guided tour of the Colosseum or want to visit some of the more special areas in the Colosseum, then this will cost more. For example, on the official website, a ticket which includes the Underground and Arena areas costs €22 (plus €2 reservation fee).

Where to Buy Colosseum Tickets

The first place to look when buying tickets for the Colosseum is the official ticket website . In our experience, this is where the best value Colosseum tickets are available.

You can normally purchase tickets on the official Colosseum website a month in advance. So, each day a new day is made available the following month.

There are many third-party websites that will sell you tickets for the Colosseum, however if all you want is the regular individual access without a guide or other access, then the official website is definitely where you should start.

For a long time, tickets on the official site were very hard to come by as they were bought up by automated systems for resale.

However, as of October 2023, all Colosseum tickets are nominative.

That means you need to give the name of the person who will be using the ticket when you purchase it. This name will be associated with the ticket, and you must present proof of identity for that name when entering the Colosseum.

Adding the requirement for a name and ID as part of the ticketing process has definitely improved ticket availability on the official site , so if you plan on visiting on your own without a guided tour, that would be my recommended first point of call.

If you do decide to just get a standard entry ticket rather than taking a guided tour, then I highly recommend picking up a guide book which includes details on the Colosseum like this pocket guide , or downloading a free audio guide which covers the Colosseum like this one from Rick Steves .

This will really help you navigate the site, as there is so much to see and it can be quite overwhelming otherwise.

If you are still struggling to find tickets, or would like to book a guided tour, read on.

Our next choice for Colosseum tickets would be either these options on the tiqets website or these options on GetYourGuide . We use both these sites for tickets in cities across Europe and it is worth checking them both as prices and availability can vary.

Note that the Colosseum requires third party sites selling Colosseum tickets to include them as part of a bundle. This means they can only sell tickets that include something else, like an audioguide or a tour. This makes them a little more expensive, but if you were planning on taking a tour or bundling some tickets for savings, this can certainly be a good option.

Colosseum access is also included on the Roma Pass and the Rome and Vatican Pass , although you do still need to book a timeslot with these passes.

You can see more on the different pass options that include the Colosseum further on in the post.

Another thing to note is that tickets bought from the official website cannot be refunded, nor can you change the date and time. Some third-party sites do allow for refunds and changes, so if this is important to you do check the terms when purchasing.

Finally, you can also purchase tickets for the Colosseum in person, either at Piazza del Colosseo or at Largo Salara Vecchia. These tickets are on a first come first serve basis for that day.

Personally, I would suggest booking in advance online rather than risking trying to get a ticket on site. However, if you can’t get a ticket for the day you want to visit, you can definitely try turning up early and trying to purchase a ticket on site instead.

Colosseum Tickets Sold Out? You still have options to visit the Colosseum!

If you are visiting Rome in the busier months, particularly over the summer and holiday periods, you might discover that there are no timeslots available on the official website, especially for the basic entry ticket.

However, there are still options available to you for visiting.

First, you might want to try some of the tickets available on the official website beyond the regular admission option. They are a little more expensive, but at least they might be available.

For example, there are tickets for the Colosseum which include an audio guide or a video guide. They are not guided tours, so you go into the individual entrance, but there is a different allocation for these tickets. You can get these tickets on the official website, or sometimes from here .

There are also tickets available on the official website which get you into more areas, like the arena, underground area, or Bellevue area. Again, these are a little bit more expensive, but you will experience more, and visit some of the less crowded area.

There are also exclusive evening tours of the Colosseum, but in our experience, these sell out even faster than the regular tickets due to limited availability.

If you are still struggling to get a Colosseum ticket, some websites we recommend you check are the following:

• This Colosseum ticket page on the Tiqets website, or this one which includes the Mamertime Prison
• This set of options for the Colosseum on GetYourGuide
• This ticket which uses the group entrance to get you faster access. This takes advantage of the tour ticket pool, meaning you might be able to get entry even if individual tickets are sold out.

If you still can’t find a Colosseum ticket using the above sites, then you might consider a pass. For example the Rome and Vatican Pass and the Roma Pass both include entrance to the Colosseum.

With these passes you just need to pay a €2 booking fee and make a reservation on the official site. These reservations come from a different pool and so might have availability even if tickets are shown as sold out on the official site. Definitely check availability first (click “Roma Pass holders” on this site) before purchasing though.

Another option for Colosseum entry if Colosseum tickets are sold out is to take a tour. We think this is a good option, even if tickets are available, as you will learn a lot more about the site.

Tours vary in price, from more basic tours which just see the Colosseum, and others which are more in depth and include some other sights.

Two we recommend are:

• This tour with Take Walks which includes arena floor access and the Roman Forum. We’ve done this tour and can highly recommend it.
• This tour on GetYourGuide which includes the Roman Forum.

We very much suggest you use a reputable company like Take Walks (which we’ve used many times) when booking a Colosseum tour so you can be confident of a good experience with professional guides. We also have a more complete section on recommended tours further on in the post.

It’s a little more expensive than booking an individual ticket, but lower priced than most tours. Good if you just want to visit the Colosseum without a tour but can’t find an individual ticket option for the day and time you want.

Finally, if you absolutely cannot get Colosseum tickets, you might instead consider this ticket which will at least get you access to the Roman Forum, which is right next to the Colosseum and well worth visiting.

How to Schedule a Time for the Colosseum

If you are visiting the Colosseum as an individual, rather than as part of a pre-booked guided tour, then you need to schedule a time for your visit (except on the free days). Everyone needs to book a timeslot, regardless of age.

Scheduling a time for your visit to the Colosseum can be done on the official ticket website . When you purchase your ticket, you will be asked to select a time. You will only be able to buy a ticket for available times.

There are two other websites we recommend for booking the Colosseum. We suggest checking on both of these as the prices tend to vary.

It’s important to note that as of 2023, the Colosseum requires third-party sites to include an additional product when selling an entry ticket. So this might be a guided tour, or an audio guide, or something similar.

This does mean prices are a little higher than the official site, but you are getting more for your money and the availability tends to be a lot better as well.

First, we recommend checking the products on GetYourGuide here . These allow you to specify a time for entry and their tickets also normally include free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit. In our experience these products tend to have better availability.

Next, you can also book to visit the Colosseum on Tiqets here . It’s also little more expensive than the official site (although you get a 5% discount on their normal price with our link), but like GetYourGuide is a lot more user friendly in our experience.

Note that at busier times of year tickets sell out far in advance, so we advise booking your time as soon as you know when you will be visiting. Tickets are released on a schedule throughout the year, which varies depending on the ticket type.

If you are travelling with children who are eligible for free entry, you also need to reserve a timeslot for your entry, which you can do either on the official site (using the guidance for free entry), or you can reserve a fast-track entry for children on this website .

If you choose to buy the Rome Tourist Card for your time in Rome, which includes entry to the major attractions like the Vatican, St. Peters and Colosseum, you will pick your Colosseum entry time on purchase. This makes this pass very convenient and easy to use.

If you have the Rome and Vatican Pass or the Roma Pass , which include entry to the Colosseum you still need to schedule your Colosseum entry and pay the small online reservation fee. I highly recommend checking there is availability at the Colosseum booking website before you buy one of these passes.

Note that availability for holders of the Roma Pass is different from general availability. Even if the site shows sold out for general admission, there might still be slots available for those with a Roma Pass.

You can check timeslot availability on the official ticket website .

On that page, there is a section for “Roma Pass Holders”, with a link at the end of the section which lets you book the entrance time.

You will be presented with the ticket screen for booking your ticket.

Scroll to the bottom of the screen, where you can select the time of your visit. This is easier if you check “available only” to only show available times.

When you have picked the time of your tickets, you will be given the option to select a product. Scroll down and choose the “RESERVATION OF ADMISSION FOR ROMA PASS HOLDERS” product option to reserve your timeslot. Make sure to reserve one for each member of your group. The cost will be €2 each.

Note that the Roma Pass only has free entry to the first attraction visited with the 48h Roma Pass, and the first two attractions with the 72h Roma Pass.

This means that if you do not use the Colosseum as your free entry, you have to pay a reduced entry. This can also be done online, using the “reduced ticket for Roma Pass holders” option which costs €11.50 at time of writing.

We strongly recommend that you reserve your Colosseum timeslot as far in advance as possible as tickets do sell out.

Official Colosseum Website

If you search for the Colosseum, you will likely be presented with a swathe of sites to choose from, and it can be tricky to know which is the official website.

There are two official websites for the Colosseum, which are as follows:

• Parco Archeologico del Colosseo: https://parcocolosseo.it/en/   – official information site for the Colosseum
• Coop Culture: https://ecm.coopculture.it/ – official ticket site for the Colosseum

There are many other sites which provide information about visiting the Colosseum (including this one) but the above two sites are the only official sites that I am aware of.

Can you skip the lines at the Colosseum?

It’s possible to get much faster access to the Colosseum by reserving your ticket and timeslot in advance, but you can’t skip the lines entirely due to security checks and the need to validate tickets.

There are two main lines at the Colosseum for individuals – one for those with a booked timeslot and a ticket, and one for those who want to buy a ticket.

With your ticket and timeslot reservation, the former is the line you should aim for. Whilst it is fairly fast due to the timeslot system, there are still security checks to go through. In addition, if you are eligible for a concession or are a child, you will need to provide proof in the form of a government ID.

If you are using the Roma Pass to enter, you will need to show this as well as your timeslot reservation.

The official Colosseum website recommends that you turn up 30 minutes earlier than your reservation, and no later than 15 minutes after your reservation time. If you turn up before or after these times, you will likely not be granted entry.

The fastest way to access the Colosseum is often with a group, as groups have a separate entry and security check. See our section below on recommended tours for some ideas. Your tour guide will advise you as to the meeting point, and will then take you to the correct entrance.

One of the best value options we’ve found for using the dedicated tour entry is this one. This doesn’t actually include a tour, but you do get faster entry in the group line, as well as your Roman Forum / Palatine Hill entry.

Definitely one to consider if you want to get in quickly, but don’t want to pay too much for a guided tour.

Rome Passes that Include the Colosseum

There are a number of cards available for Rome which offer free or discounted admission to a number of attractions in the city. Some passes also have added benefits like public transport or audio guides to the city.

Which of these cards is best for you will vary depending on which sites you want to visit, how long you have in the city, and your budget.

Rome Tourist Card

The Rome Tourist Card includes entry to the Colosseum which you book when you buy the pass, making this one of the easiest passes for Colosseum entry. It also includes timed access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel as well as a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica.

You also get a discount on other attractions in Rome, as well as some nice audio tours of various sights in the city. If you want a pass which covers the essential sights and makes things hassle free, this is a great option. You can buy this pass online here .

The Roma Pass comes in a 48 hour and a 72 hour version. Both versions include free public transport access in Rome, as well as discounted entry to a wide range of attractions in the city.

The 48 hour pass includes free entry to the first site you visit, whilst the 72 hour pass includes free to entry to your first two visited sites. Obviously, we’d suggest making the Colosseum your first visited site with the 48 hour pass.

Remember that with the Roma Pass you do still need to reserve your Colosseum timeslot in advance on the official website, and pay the €2 reservation fee.

You should also be aware that whilst the Roma Pass does include entry to the Colosseum, this entry is not guaranteed just because you have the pass. If there are no timeslots available for visiting, you won’t be able to visit.

So if you know your dates, we suggest checking the available times on the official ticket website before buying your Roma Pass to be sure you’ll be able to visit, if this is a primary reason for buying the Roma Pass.

Rome and Vatican Pass

The Rome and Vatican Pass includes the Roma Pass as well as skip the line entry to the Vatican City attractions like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. This is our preferred pass if you are visiting Rome for 3 days as it includes the majority of he attractions in the city.

Entry to the Colosseum is included (as part of the Roma Pass part of the pass), but you do still need to reserve the timeslot in advance and pay the €2 reservation fee. The same caveat in terms of availability also applies to the Roma Pass.

The Rome and Vatican Pass also includes a Hop on Hop off bus, public transport, audioguides for many of the attractions, a guidebook to Rome, and lots more.

Best of Rome All Access Pass

The Best of Rome All Access Pass is a 3 day pass which includes fast track entry to the majority of sites in Rome, including the Colosseum, Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.

It also includes an audioguide of the city. When you book, you specify a time for the Colosseum. Note this pass does not include any transport.

Options for Visiting Different Parts of the Colosseum

The Colosseum has a number of different options for visiting, with the main differences being which parts of the structure you have access to.

The basic access gets you entry to the main parts of the structure, and you will be able to explore many of the spectator stands, as well as see down into the arena. This is the lowest cost option, and is the most popular option for visitors.

You can also purchase tickets which will give you access to more exclusive parts of the Colosseum. These are slightly more expensive and are sold in lower quantities as there is less space. They also require an authorized guide.

There are two main areas you can visit, with our suggested options for visiting as follows. Note that depending on restoration and construction works, as well as any social distancing requirements, not all the tours are always available.

Colosseum Underground Tour, including Colosseum Arena Access

The Colosseum Underground Tour is an official tour sold through the Colosseum website which is offered in a number of languages including English .

The tour includes access to the arena area as well as the area underneath the Colosseum where the gladiators would prepare for battle. This area is known as the hypogeum, and it is a two story underground space.

Originally this would have been hidden under the arena, but as the floor above it has perished, it is well lit and visible.

This is a fully guided tour, and is an excellent option for anyone looking for a more in depth experience.

Note that this tour is very popular and can book up well in advance. If you want to take this tour, we highly recommend booking it far in advance. There are also some third party tour companies offering this tour, such as  this one from Take Walks which also includes the Roman Forum .

We list more of these in our recommended tours section below.

Colosseum Belvedere Panoramic View Access

Up until around 2019, it was possible to book the Colosseum Panoramic View Tour which took you up to the 3rd, 4th and 5th floors of the Colosseum, which are not generally open to the public. The tour is also referred to as the Belvedere tour, which means “beautiful view”.

These floors offer you a spectacular panoramic view of the Colosseum from high above the ground, and are worth doing if you want a unique perspective of the arena.

As of 2022 this area is again closed to the public, and we will update this guide if this changes.

All tours which visit special areas also normally include access to the main part of the Colosseum as well, so you don’t need to buy them separately. Once your tour is complete, you can explore the other parts of the Colosseum at your leisure.

Do be aware that the official website does list cheaper tickets for the underground and arena areas, which do not include a tour guide.

These tickets are aimed at official tour companies rather than individuals. The tickets are only valid with an authorized guide, however a guide is not provided – you would need to arrange one yourself. As well as being authorized, the guide also needs to provide a list of everyone coming on official headed notepaper.

This is likely beyond the scope of most visitors to arrange, hence we suggest the guided options.

Note:  different areas of the Colosseum can close for works. So do just be aware of this.

Practicalities for Visiting the Colosseum

Facilities at the colosseum.

The Colosseum has toilets on-site, although ideally you would want to go before your visit so as to avoid wasting time on site.

Otherwise, facilities are fairly limited. There’s no on-site luggage facilities, cafes, or restaurants. Although there are plenty of places to eat and get a coffee within a short walk of the Colosseum.

Security at the Colosseum

As with any major attraction, security is a major consideration. Security is similar to an airport, with metal detectors and bag scanners in place at all the entry points.

You can’t take any large bags or wheeled suitcases into the Colosseum, but small daypacks are normally allowed.

Items including bottles and glasses containers, alcoholic beverages and aerosols, backpacks, camping equipment, bulky bags, and luggage / trolley bags are also not permitted.

Accessibility at the Colosseum

Despite its age, the Colosseum has relatively good accessibility for those with reduced mobility. The main entrance is step-free, and there’s an elevator for disabled use to get up to the arena level. Accessible routes are clearly marked.

There are also accessible toilets, and audio and video guides are also available.

It is worth bearing in mind that the area around the Colosseum is cobblestones, which might be tricky for a wheelchair or those with a cane or walker.

Luggage storage Near the Colosseum

For security reasons, only medium to small backpacks can be brought into the Colosseum. Any other luggage is prohibited.

Ideally, you will leave your luggage at your hotel whilst you are out exploring Rome, but this is not always possible.

Instead, you will want to leave your luggage nearby. We recommend you check out  Nannybag , which offers secure storage in locations across Rome. Just search for Colosseum in their search box to find locations closest to the Colosseum.

Tours of the Colosseum

The Colosseum is a big place to visit and there is a huge amount of history to understand here.

For that reason, we highly recommend visiting as part of a guided tour. This will really help you understand what you are seeing and get more of a sense of this incredible structure.

If you want to take a guided tour of the Colosseum, there are a number of tour options available to you. Tours range in price and size, from larger group tours that usually cost a bit less, right through to more premium small group and private tours.

A tour is also a good option if tickets for the Colosseum have sold out and you have been unable to book a timeslot for the Colosseum, as tour groups have their own ticket allocation.

So where to book a tour? Here are our recommended tour options for the Colosseum.

First, the official Colosseum website offers guided tours of the special access parts of the Colosseum, such as the arena, underground and panoramic views.

These tend to be some of the best value tours, however they also sell out very quickly. They also do not offer a general Colosseum tour, and in my experience, the website isn’t the easiest to navigate!

Our preferred tour company for guided tours in Italy is Take Walks (also known as Walks of Italy), and we’ve taken a number of their tours in Rome, including a tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum . See our review of some of their Rome tours here .

They offer a number of tours, some of which focus on the Colosseum, and other which cover other parts of Rome as well. We recommend the following tours that they offer:

• Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill – we took a tour like this one, which covered the main sights of the Colosseum with Arena floor access, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, and taught us a great deal about what we were seeing
• VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill – this tour is similar to the above, but also include access to the underground parts of the Colosseum.
• Rome In A Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Center – a great option if you are short on time, this excellent value tour includes all the major highlights of the city across a busy day
• VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor – if you’re looking for something a bit different (and a bit quieter!), this night time access tour offers a unique experience

Of course, there are many other operators offering Colosseum tours. We do recommend reading reviews and only going with a reputable company. Some suggested options to check out include:

• This GetYourGuide tour of the Colosseum which includes access to the underground arena as well as a tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• This tour with Context Travel of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which can be booked as a private tour or small group tour. Note you get 10% off all Context tours if you book through our link)
• This 3 hour walking tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• A private 3 hour walking tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

As you can see, there is no shortage of tours on offer – hopefully you will find something to suit. If you are looking for advice about a tour, feel free to leave us a comment at the end of this post.

Tips for Visiting the Colosseum

We’ve been lucky enough to visit the Colosseum a number of times on different visits to Rome, and have visited individually and on guided tours. Based on our experiences visiting, we wanted to share some tips to help you plan your own visit.

Which Colosseum ticket to buy?

If you would prefer to buy an individual ticket for your visit to the Colosseum, then we suggest either the official website here (usually cheapest but not always the easiest website to navigate), the Tiqets website here (using our link saves you 5% on their price), or the GetYourGuide website here .

If you are planning on visiting a number of sights in Rome, perhaps from one of our Rome itineraries , then we recommend purchasing either the Roma Pass or the Rome and Vatican Pass . These will give you entry to a number of other attractions in the city, as well as free public transport.

With these cards, you just need to pay the €2 fee to reserve your timeslot, which you can do online. It is also possible to do it in person for free, but we advise against this as times fill up quickly.

If skip the line access is your priority, then we’d suggest this good value option which gets you in via the group entrance, which is usually the fastest way to get into the Colosseum.

If you’re looking for a guided tour that will be more comprehensive and last a bit longer, then we suggest this tour from Take Walks .

Consider a Guided Tour or Audio / Video guide

There is a great deal of history in the Colosseum, and it’s not always easy to understand what all the different parts are that you are looking at.

To be honest this statement could be extended to many of Rome’s attractions!

We definitely think that the best way to see many of Rome’s sights is on a guided tour, and the Colosseum is no exception. These do cost a bit more than just buying a ticket, but we think they are well worth it.

If you don’t want to take a guided tour, then we suggest considering either an option that include an audio or video guide. Failing that, at least consider picking up a detailed guide book which has lots of information in to help you understand what you are looking at.

What to Bring

We would suggest bringing as little as possible to the Colosseum in order to minimize your time in security. You are not allowed to bring large bags or wheeled suitcases, but day packs are allowed. Glass bottles and alcohol containers are also not permitted.

We’d suggest bringing just your daily essentials that you might need for exploring the city. These will likely include a bottle of water, suncream, a hat, your camera / smartphone, map of the city, and some spending money.

You should also bring government issued photo ID, such as your passport or driver’s license, in case you need to prove who you are when showing your ticket. This is particularly important for children, students, and anyone else using a concession ticket.

Plan your Day in Advance

Hopefully the theme of properly planning your trip to the Colosseum is coming across well in this guide to visiting!

We would suggest that to make the most of your time at the Colosseum and Rome in general, that you put together a general itinerary for what you want to see each day. This will help you ensure you see everything you want.

Once you have an idea of your itinerary, we highly recommend booking all your tickets in advance, which will save time and ensure you skip the long ticket lines.

If that sounds like too much work, then we instead recommend taking one of our suggested guided tours to get the most out of your time in the city, letting you enjoy yourself, and letting someone else worry about the planning!

Be Wary of on Site Touts

Like many attractions around the world, the Colosseum has a fair number of touts selling various things, from photos with a “Gladiator” (they will always expect to be paid), to tickets for entry.

If you already have an entry ticket from the official site, and need assistance for any reason, look for the CoopCulture staff. A commenter has pointed out that these will only be on site during opening hours, so if you arrive earlier than opening, it is easy to be misled by other official looking ticket sellers who will likely try to sell you a tour.

Whilst these might be legitimate sellers of guided tours, if you already have an entry ticket then you should just head for the entrance and await opening, at which point there will be official staff available to assist you.

If you have bought a ticket from a third-party site or for a tour, read the instructions carefully regarding where to go. It should give detailed information, as well as how to identify your guide if you have one.

Be very wary purchasing tickets on site from touts. As of October 2023, all tickets need to have a name on them that matches an official ID, presented when you go through the ticket barrier.

Skip the Free Days

It can be tempting to think about visiting the Colosseum on the days when entry is free.

However, what you save in money you lose in time and crowds. The Colosseum tends to be very busy on the free days, and tickets are only available in person at the site. These are on a first come first served basis, which means you can spend a great deal of time standing in line.

Visiting with a ticket and a timeslot will guarantee you your entry, and save you wasting time. If you are in Rome for a prolonged period of time, then this is likely less of a concern, but for those of you visiting over a few days, we’d suggest it isn’t worth the saving in most cases.

Attractions Near the Colosseum

The largest major attraction near the Colosseum is the Roman Forum, and your Colosseum ticket gets you entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill as well.

Note that many third party websites advertise this as a bonus feature, but the reality is that every ticket to the Colosseum includes access to the Roman Forum.

Also be aware that the standard ticket only has access for 1 day. In the past it was valid for 2 days, and many websites still incorrectly state this. Unlike the Colosseum, there is not currently timed entry for the Roman Forum.

It’s also worth noting that there are various tickets for the Roman Forum. The ticket which comes with the Colosseum gets you into the main part of the Forum.

There is also a “S.U.P.E.R.” ticket, which can be purchased separately on the official site here , which gives access to a number of additional sites inside the Forum.

These vary depending on archeological works, but usually include the Palatine Museum, House of Augustus, Aula Isiaca, Santa Maria Antiqua, Curia Iulia, Domus Tiberiana, Domus Transitoria and Livia’s House.

There are a number of other attractions within easy walking distance of the Colosseum. These include the Circus Maximus, the Baths of Caracalla and the Capitoline Museums.

For more inspiration to plan your time in Rome, see our detailed itineraries for spending 1 day in Rome , 2 days in Rome and 3 days in Rome , all of which include a visit to the Colosseum.

Where to Stay Near the Colosseum

Rome has a huge number of accommodation options across the city. We usually recommend staying in the area around the Piazza Navona as that’s within walking distance of everything from the Colosseum to the Vatican City.

However, it’s also possible to stay right next to the Colosseum if you prefer. Some properties even have Colosseum views!

Here’s our pick of some of the best hotels and other accommodation options where you can stay near the Colosseum.

• Colosseo Guesthouse – One of the best value hotel options near the Colosseum, this guesthouse offers en-suite air conditioned rooms with city views and breakfast included.
• B&B Colosseo Panoramic Rooms – Found directly across from the Colosseum, it’s hard to imagine finding anywhere closer. This B&B offers air conditioned rooms with en-suite facilities, flat screen TV’s and breakfast for a good price
• Relais Terme di Tito – just 100 yards from the Colosseum, this design hotel in a historic building has wonderful rooms which feature air conditioning, minibars and en-suite facilities
• FH55 Grand Hotel Palatino – a five minute walk from the Colosseum, this four star hotel has en-suite air conditioned rooms, soundproofing, inclusive breakfast and an on-site restaurant
• Hotel Palazzo Manfredi – Relais & Chateaux  – one of the best 5* properties near to the Colosseum, this hotel has an incredible rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Colosseum. Rooms are en-suite with air-conditioning featuring TV’s, minibar and a tea/coffee maker. An excellent luxury option near the Colosseum

Of course, there are other options for accommodation in Rome beyond the above. We recommend checking out all the listings on booking.com for Rome to start with.

If you prefer an apartment, then we recommend Plum Guide .

Plum Guide carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. We’ve booked them for trips around the world and always had a great experience, and you can read our full review of Plum Guide here . See their listings for Rome here .

If you can’t find what you want on Plum Guide, or you want some new options to try out, we wrote a whole post on the best alternatives to AirBnB  which you should check out!

Further Reading for Visiting Rome

We have visited Rome many times and have put together a number of guides to help you make the most out of your time in the city. We’ve also visited many other parts of Italy, and we’ve included some of these posts below as well, as well as some other resources we think you’ll find useful.

• We have a guide to spending 1 day in Rome , as well as guides for 2 days in Rome and 3 days in Rome , which should help you plan your time effectively. We also have a guide to things to do in Rome in general.
• You can’t visit Rome without trying gelato – the Italian version of ice cream. See all our favourite places to find the best gelato in Rome
• Another popular Italian pastime is drinking coffee, particularly espresso! See some of the best cafes to drink coffee in Rome
• We’ve taken a number of walking tours in Rome. See our guide to our favourite walking tours of Rome here , our favourite Rome food tours here , and our review of a Romantic Poets and Grand Tour post we took here .
• We have a detailed guide to visiting the Borghese Gallery in Rome which is one of our favorite art museums in Rome.
• We also have a detailed guide to visiting Vatican City and its attractions. Our complete guide to the Vatican has everything you need to know, including all the highlights, tips for visiting, how to buy tickets and lots more.
• Beyond Rome, we have a guide to Florence , suggested things to do in Milan , a 2 day Milan itinerary , and tips for a day in Venice
• We also have a detailed 10 day Italy itinerary to help you plan a trip in this wonderful country
• If you’re planning on visiting Rome in summer, read our  tips for visiting a European city in summer  to stay sane
• If you’re looking for a physical (or Kindle!) guidebook, we recommend the  Rick Steves Rome guide , which has lots of practical information to help you make the most of your stay

And that’s the end of our guide to making the most of your visit to the Colosseum! We hope you found it useful. As always, if you have any questions or feedback on this post, let us know in the comments below!

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There are 37 comments on this post

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Costa Lima says

4th March 2024 at 4:45 am

Thanks for the information!

You have clarified a lot!

I still have some doubts though. I hope you can help me:

https://ecm.coopculture.it/index.php?option=com_snapp&view=event&id=7D8772B8-1D4C-5766-0483-016CAFC55142&catalogid=577EE60C-C16D-67DA-4942-017C7D6D0AED&lang=en

In the link above, I am currently trying to guarantee a visit to the Coliseum for a group of 4 adults and a baby and also trying to guarantee the Roman Pass. I think I need to purchase like this:

4 (FOUR) RESERVATION ROMA PASS 72H WITH ENTRANCE 5 (FIVE) RESERVATION OF ADMISSION FOR ROMA PASS HOLDERS

Is this correct? I think I don’t need the Roman Pass for the baby, but I must reserve the admission, right? Hence the four reservations for the PASS and the five for the admission.

Furthemore, I understood from what I just read that I will have access to the forum & palatine with the ticket for the Coliseum, but can I start from the forum/palatine? Do you recommend doing so? I heard it’s better because it will be downhill.

Laurence Norah says

4th March 2024 at 3:09 pm

It’s my pleasure! So you are correct, if you want to visit with the Roma Pass, then you can purchase both the Roma Pass and the reservation at the same time from the Coliseum website. Your selection looks correct to me.

In terms of the Forum vs Coliseum first, it is up to you. The Forum does not have a timed entrance, but the Coliseum does, so most people do the Coliseum first so they know when they are going in. However you can do it the other way round of course. The hill is not very big from the Coliseum to the Roman Forum anyway, however another advantage if you do it the other way round is that you can use a different entrance to the Forum. There are a few entrances, and the ony next to the Coliseum is usually the busiest as most people exit the Coliseum and go straignt to the Forum.

Anyway, have an amazing time in Rome and let me know if you have any more questions!

Jeff Street says

3rd June 2022 at 4:38 pm

Hi Guys! This is a really informative blog. Thank you so much! I am traveling as part of a group of 11 on our way to Jerusalem. We have an 11 hour layover in Rome (Fiumicino) and I would like to take them to see the Colosseum and then head back to the airport. Do you have any advice / tips for me? Thank you so much! Jeff

3rd June 2022 at 4:57 pm

Thanks very much! So this should definitely be do-able. It’s around an hour by bus / shuttle from Fiumcino to central Rome. A shuttle bus like this is probably going to be the best value, although you might be able to find a bus company that will take all of you to Roma Termini, from where it’s a 20 minute walk to the Colosseum.

I’m not sure if you wanted to do a tour of the Colosseum or just self service. Whichever though, as there are quite a few of you I would definitely recommend booking well in advance. The Colosseum has limited numbers of tickets available per day. The lowest price is nearly always available by booking direct on the offcial site. If you wanted to take a tour, there are a few recommendations in this guide.

Remember that admission to the Colosseum also includes access to the Roman Forum, so do visit there as well. Depending on your group and how organised you are, you would also likely have time to do some sightseeing in the area before returning to the airport for your flight.

My main tip is just to book everything in advance and make sure you all have a means of communicating with each other or at least having a fall back meeting point at a certain time. Otherwise, this should be very do-able 🙂

Enjoy Rome!

Jessica says

6th March 2022 at 5:07 pm

Thanks for all the information Do you now if I buy a time slot ticket for the colisseum can I visit de Roman Forum and the Paltine before entering the coliseum? thank you.

7th March 2022 at 12:02 pm

Hi Jessica,

Yes, you should be able to visit the Roman Forum prior to entering the Colosseum. The default ticket is valid for 1 day and you can enter one before the other. Obviously you’ll still need to observe the timeslot on your Colosseum ticket.

Let me know if you have any questions and have a great time in Rome!

Edmund Chue says

4th August 2020 at 9:18 pm

A great comprehensive guide to visiting the Colosseum. I would like to share a potential pitfall for those who already have existing tickets purchased from the official website for the earliest opening timing slot of the day. At the Colosseum area, only take instructions from the actual CoopCulture staff. Their uniform is all black. Only listen to them. Beware of those people wearing blue jackets with the words ” Colosseum official skip the line “. These people are touts from some unspecified sources and they will tend to purposely give false information to these who have already pre-booked or have the passes. Whether intentional or not, their attire are very misleading in denoting their actual identities. These touts will purposely mislead those who already got prior tickets and may send you going back and forth. For visitors who arrive at the entry gate early, before opening time, the actual CoopCulture staff have still not been stationed for work and only these misleading people will be mingling around.

5th August 2020 at 11:20 am

Thanks for sharing your experience, this is definitely unfortunate to hear. I will add a section on this to the guide to help future visitors 🙂 I hope you were still able to enjoy your visit!

William Cheriegate says

11th February 2020 at 7:44 pm

The 37 Euro tickets for > Underground & Level III official tour:

You mentioned “If you are interested in both the underground and the panoramic view, there is also a tour which includes both of them.”

Is the Level III the same as the “panoramic view”? There are 5 levels so I’m bit confused. Thank you VERY MUCH.

11th February 2020 at 11:52 pm

Hi William,

Yes, Level 3 is the same as panoramic view, which is also often referred to as the Belevedere tour (belvedere means “beautiful view”). The tour should include access to levels 3-5, but the official website is a little opaque on this unfortunately. They also keep changing what they call the tour to make life more complicated. Currently it is the “FULL EXPERIENCE + UNDERGROUND AND LEVEL III”. There’s a little bit more information here: https://www.coopculture.it/events.cfm?id=6

But it’s in Italian only, so you would need to translate it. The clue is at the end, where it says “the elevator is not used to reach the third, fourth and fifth ring”. So even though the fourth and fifth levels are mysteriously omitted in the description of the tour, they should be included!

Have a great trip 🙂

11th February 2020 at 11:57 pm

Just to update this, I just found on the official ticket website that access to Levels 4 & 5 is temporarily suspended (you can see this in the bolded text in the right hand column here: https://www.coopculture.it/en/events.cfm?id=6 )

So the tour will only go up to Level 3 until this reopens, I’m not sure when that will be!

12th February 2020 at 3:15 am

Bravo, grazie mille.

9th January 2020 at 10:21 pm

Hi there, I’m going to Rome in a month and just bought my Colosseum time reservation and the Roma Pass. Do you know where I go to pick up the Roma Pass at the Colosseum? My reservation is the first one in the morning (8:35) so I don’t know if it will be crowded at that point. Or, can I pick up my Roma Pass at the airport when I arrive, even though I bought it through the Colosseum website?

Thanks for your help! Erin

10th January 2020 at 10:49 am

Normally when you buy a Roma Pass you would pick it up at any of the official pick up points, which are the tourist infopoints around the city and at the airports. These are as follows:

PIT Castel S. Angelo, Piazza Pia (next to the gardens of Castel Sant’Angelo), 8.30am – 18.00pm till 24/03, 9.30am – 7.00pm till 27/10. PIT Ciampino, Aeroporto G.B.Pastine – External area International Arrivals. 8.30am – 6.00pm. PIT Cinque Lune, Piazza delle Cinque Lune (Piazza Navona). 9.30am – 7.00pm. PIT Fiumicino, Aeroporto Leonardo Da Vinci – International Arrivals – Terminal T3. 8.00am – 8.45pm. PIT Fori Imperiali, Visitor Center Via dei Fori Imperiali. 01 January-30 June and 01 September-31 December: 9.30am – 7.00pm – 01 July-31 August: 9.30am – 8.00 pm. PIT Minghetti, Via Marco Minghetti (corner to Via del Corso). 9.30am – 7.00pm. PIT Sonnino, Piazza Sidney Sonnino (Trastevere). 10.30am – 8.00pm. PIT Termini, Stazione Termini – Via Giovanni Giolitti, 34, platform 24. 8.00am – 6.45pm.

However, on the Colosseum website for the Roma Pass, it says (and I quote directly)

THE CARD CAN BE COLLECTED AT THE TICKET DESK OF PALAZZO MERULANA, VIA MERULANA 121, NEAR THE COLOSSEUM, OPEN FROM 08:30 TO 21:00 FROM WEDNESDAY TO MONDAY. ON TUESDAY, DAY OF CLOSURE TO THE PUBLIC, IT WILL BE POSSIBLE TO COLLECT THE ROMA PASS CARD RINGING THE BELL TO THE STREET NUMBER 121, FROM 10:00 TO 17:00.

So it looks like you have to pick it up at Palazzo Merulana, which opens at 8.30.

I’m not sure what time you arrive at the airport, but if it is the previous day then I would try to pick up your pass then. All the Roma passes are the same, so in theory as long as you have a collection code you should be able to pick it up, however I have not tried buying the Roma Pass from the Colosseum website so I cannot be 100% sure. I don’t see why not though.

I would definitely appreciate it if you could let me know what option you choose and how it works for you so I can know for the future!

Apologies not to be of more help

1st October 2019 at 12:21 pm

I like ur blog. thanks for all infmormation. I would like to ask about 1st Sunday of the month. Free entrance to Colosseum – possible to get to level I. and III. this day ?

Thank you for your time.

4th October 2019 at 7:28 pm

Unfortunately not, the underground and Belvedere areas are not open on the free Sundays according to the official website,

Nicole says

15th September 2019 at 11:36 pm

Very helpful article! I am looking at the official ticket website and if I want to see every part of the Colosseum (main areas, underground and upper levels) would the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine regular entrance+Undergrounds and Level III English tour be the one to purchase? I’m confused as to why it says Level III, but not 4 or 5. Also, does this tour include a guide? My apologies, but there seem to be many options and I want to make sure that I choose the correct one!

16th September 2019 at 8:36 am

Thanks very much, and I definitely appreciate the official website is confusing – I’ve spent far too long trying to figure it out myself! The tour you want is indeed what you say. There’s a more detailed description of it here: https://www.coopculture.it/en/events.cfm?id=6 (I believe this is the same tour!). It only says Level III but I believe it also goes higher than this. However, the description on the ticket page is certainly lacking. It does include a guide yes 🙂

I hope this helps – have a great trip to Italy!

rebecca says

7th November 2019 at 9:01 pm

First of all, I love the post and appreciate how comprehensive and informative it is. Thank you! I was trying to reserve the tour that covers all aspects of the Colosseum (including the underground and arena portion) as well, but there was not a specific tab for Roman Pass holders in making a time/date reservation. There is a tab that says “free ticket and guide” for 2 Euros and then a tab for “free ticket but 15 Euros for guide.” Is the guide price included in the Roman Pass? Not sure what to select…

Thank you so much!

8th November 2019 at 9:16 am

Thanks very much. So, as far as I know the Roma Pass only allows for normal access which doesn’t include a guide. That’s thee €2 ticket you see.

If you want access to the other areas like the arena, underground and upstairs, that is a separate ticket entirely and I don’t think the Roma Pass can be used towards that. It’s currently €33 on the Co-opculture website for that tour (it’s called Colosseum, Roman Forum And Palatine Regular Entrance+Undergrounds And Level III English Tour).

As far as I know you can only use the Roma Pass for the standard entry. Any guided tours or access to other areas will require you to buy a whole new ticket and not use the Roma Pass.

I hope this helps a bit!

Stacey says

30th August 2019 at 5:16 am

Thanks for such a detailed post. So, I am traveling with my mum and brother from the U.S. I really do want a guided tour but knowing my brother, he would want to see the underground. From the official site, I see that the guided tour of the underground only covers the underground OR also access to the upper floors not the colosseum itself. Which do you think is best? Do a guided tour of the colosseium itself or a guided tour of the upper floors and underground with an audio tour of the colosseium and forum etc? Thanks.

30th August 2019 at 6:20 am

So you still get access to the Colosseum but yes, the tour part doesn’t cover the main Colosseum area. It’s really up to you what you do – I definitely think either an audioguide or a guided tour inside the actual Colosseum is really worth it as it can really help you understand it.

One option to consider, depending on your budget, is this tour , which is a guided tour that includes the Colosseum and the underground, as well as a guided tour of the Forum.

Otherwise, the next best option would be a the underground tour from the official site, and then adding in an audioguide.

I hope this all helps – have a great trip!

james ballas says

24th August 2019 at 11:47 am

Going to Rome in September . I reserved a time slot . Received the email confirming everything. It did have an option to print tickets but it was disabled. I have to go to the reservation desk with the confirmation to pick up tickets . Does this seem right?

25th August 2019 at 2:06 pm

Did you book through the co-opculture site (the official site), and were you using Roma Card? I believe normally the ticket is printable online, so I’m not sure what might have happened there, but it would depend on the answer to the question 🙂

Jasmin says

18th August 2019 at 12:26 am

Wow just wow! I can’t believe how detailed all the informations you guys provided. I just went from zero knowledge of Colosseum to ‘I know exactly what to do now’. Thank you so much for sharing!!

18th August 2019 at 10:00 am

Hi Jasmin! Our pleasure – delighted to be able to help 🙂 Let us know if you have any questions, and have a great time in Rome!

Grimsa says

11th July 2019 at 5:08 am

The guide was absolutely helpful while going there…Thanks a lot!!

12th July 2019 at 4:19 am

My pleasure, thanks for letting me know!

Neil godden says

7th July 2019 at 3:41 pm

Thanks Laurence and Norah I am currently travelling for 8 months with my wife and four kids and head to Rome on our way back from India. Your blog is very informative and I only wish I had found it sooner! Just to confirm, if I buy tickets through ticket bar for 2 adults I will be able to buy our children’s tickets at the Colosseum? The official website is a bit confusing! Thanks in advance. Neil

9th July 2019 at 3:41 pm

The official website is very confusing yes. I think ticketbar sell the children’s tickets as well. I have also been told that you can get children’s tickets as you go through the line, but I don’t travel with children so I haven’t as yet been able to test this, and I have not heard back from anyone who has tried. I did call them, and was told that you can get them as you go through, but again, I haven’t personally been able to verify.

Have a great trip, and do report back with your experience if possible!

5th June 2019 at 8:16 pm

Hi. I was reading your blog and I decided to buy two tickets from ticketbar.eu for the 50 mins audio/video guide tour of the Colosseum. I was wondering if the ticket they emailed me after actually works. Thank you!

6th June 2019 at 12:42 am

We are confident that it will work, it is the same ticket that you can buy from the Colosseum directly. It should have a timeslot for your entry. Ticket bar are a company that we have used in a number of cities in Europe and we have not had any problems. If you have any questions about the ticket though you should be able to to contact them and I’m sure they will help. If you have any problems let us know.

Enjoy your time in Rome!

Gautam Shetty says

27th May 2019 at 4:52 pm

Thanks a lot Laurence. Really appreciate any help you can offer. Thanks for the clarification around the Omnia card. By the way if I do wanna go to St Peter’s Basilica and visit the dome (which everybody goes gaga about) would the Omnia Card help me fast track the line or is that something the 24 hr Omnia Card does not help with and i’ll have to hit the queues

27th May 2019 at 6:42 pm

Hey Gautum!

My pleasure. For the dome, it is worth it, but the Omnia card won’t get you access. There’s a queue inside that you have to join, and this is also a separate payment. This normally isn’t too long, but at some times of year and day it can be very busy. Last time I was there they didn’t accept card payments, only cash. It’s a long walk up, but the view is amazing, and it is definitely worth it.

29th May 2019 at 11:24 am

I managed to go through to the Colosseum this morning. Unfortunately, as you suspected, you will have to pay the difference at the ticket office at the Colosseum. My advice would be to try the Roman Forum ticket booth as there should be less of a line. Alternatively, you might consider getting a specific ticket just for the Colosseum.

I have updated the post with this information to help others,

Have a great trip!

26th May 2019 at 5:02 pm

Hi. Your blog is absolutely fantastic and I really appreciate the detail with which you have provided information for folks like us who intend to visit Italy for the first time. I had a couple of question though regarding the booking of tickets for the Colosseum.

My wife and I plan to visit Rome for two days next month. I have bought the Roma Pass and although I was hoping the Colosseum would be the first attraction on the first day for us, I have managed to get a booking only at 5:30 pm on the second day(There was no other timeslots available for either day). Now with us probably using the first day to visit the Vatican instead (via the Omnia Pass) and probably using the second day to sight see other museums/ archaeological sites in Rome (where I’d use up the only free entry the Roma Pass for 48 hour offers) what would I have to pay at the Colosseum i.e the entrace fee for two individuals at a discounted rate (cause I have purchased a Roma Pass)? Secondly I would have to pay this amount at the Ticket Counter which means I would have to get there much earlier than the 30 mins just to ensure i don’t miss my time slot?

I had another question regarding the Omnia Pass. The 24 hour pass states ‘Priority entry to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel’, ‘Entry to St. Paul’s Basilica and Cloister’. Does this mean free entry or is there a fee for entry here as well? Would really appreciate you helping us out by giving us clarity on these…

26th May 2019 at 5:22 pm

Thanks very much, I am delighted to have been able to help. Let me see if I can answer your questions 🙂

So – first, if you have the Roma Pass, I assume you went to the co-opculture site to reserve your timeslots following the instructions in this post? In which case it would have cost you €2 per adult to reserve your timeslots.

Your question is now what the procedure is for paying as you will have used up the free entry for the Roma Pass, and are only eligible for the discounted ticket. Normally you would have to go to the ticket office to get the ticket, but you are correct, this might take a long time. This is also not clearly explained anywhere, so I am not certain as to the procedure. I have two ideas.

First, I will contact the Colosseum and try to find out the answer for you. Second, my advice in terms of getting the reduced ticket would be to get this from the Roman Forum ticket office. The tickets are valid for entry to both locations, and there is usually much less queue at the Forum. However, I do not know if they are able to issue a ticket if you already have a timeslot. Again, I will try to clarify this for you. This whole system is new for 2019 and it is taking time for the information to become available.

For the Omnia Pass, there is free entry to the Vatican Museum, which is included on the pass. St. Paul’s (note, different to St. Peter’s) is free to visit, and there’s not usually a line either. The cloister has a small fee, but it should be free with the card.

I hope this helps. I will try to get to the bottom of using the Roma Pass for discounted entry and update this comment and the post soon!

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Top 15 Tips For Visiting The Colosseum In Rome – 2024 UPDATE

Symbol of Rome, one of Europe’s most famous iconic landmarks, it’s impossible not to be visiting the Colosseum if it’s your first time in Rome. With thousands of tourists standing in line every day, carefully planning your visit is a must. This is why we have packed a list with our top tips to make the most out of your visit to the Roman Colosseum.

We are going to cover every aspect you need to know before you visit. Factors such as how long you should allocate to your Colosseum tour, admission price and different types of tickets, the Colosseum’s opening hours, how to get there, and what services you can expect are only some of the pieces of information you are going to find in our Colosseum guide.

It doesn’t really matter how many days you will stay in Rome , because for sure, either from outside or inside, you will be visiting the Colosseum. Here, we will share precious tips for a smooth experience, how to skip the line, which ticket or tour to opt for, what to wear, and what is not allowed to carry.

Table of Contents

My Best Tips for Visiting the Colosseum

Crowded any day, any time, sometimes visiting the Colosseum can be intimidating. Long queues and being unsure of what to see or what you can carry can make you worry beforehand.

These are my top tips to guide you through a smooth experience, from when is the best time to go, what to see, how to access the different areas, and how to skip the line and enjoy a fast-track Colosseum entrance.

READ MORE: If it’s your first trip, check out our guide to the top things to do in Rome .

Best Time to Visit the Colosseum in Rome

Whether it’s summer or winter, there is not really a season travelers give up on visiting the Colosseum.

As a piece of general advice, I can suggest that the best way to see the Colosseum is to go when it’s not raining. Temperature doesn’t really matter, but since the tour takes place almost entirely open-air, walking without an umbrella is certainly preferred for a smoother visit.

As far as the season goes, summer is packed at any time of the day. July and August are crazy busy months, but if this is the only time you can take your holiday, you might want to book online or a tour with a skip-the-line entrance.

Likely, you will find fewer queues in the afternoon, while in the morning it’s always more crowded. Just keep in mind that you need to allow enough time to queue and visit. The ticket is valid for 48 hours, so you can visit the second attraction the day after.

A trick to skip the line when visiting the Colosseum can be to head to the Roman Forum first, which we usually found less busy. The ticket is valid for the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, so for the Colosseum, you will enter directly without having to queue for the ticket. The line for the Forum is usually shorter, but again this is not always the case. In the high seasons, mainly summer and December, also here you may find many people.

>> Insider’s tip: I suggest visiting the Colosseum in Rome early morning in the summer months because too hot later in the day, and in the early afternoon in less busy months like February and March because otherwise, it’s too cold.

If you really want to visit the Colosseum before the Forum, try to be there at least half an hour before opening time.

In any case, if you would like to skip the queue, you either book a tour or buy a skip-the-line Colosseum ticket. Read below for more info.

Make sure you read our exhaustive guides to visiting Rome in August and Rome in December .

How much does it cost to visit the Colosseum in Rome?

The ordinary ticket for the Roman Colosseum costs 16€ (16+2€ if you book online) and gives you access also to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. It’s valid for 24 hours and allows for one entry to each attraction. For EU citizens between 18 and 25 years of age, the ticket is 2€.

For the Colosseum with the Arena and the Dungeon included, the Full Experience ticket is 22€ (+2 € if you book online) and you will visit each area with a guide.

The 48-hour Roma Pass gives you access to 1 attraction for free, while the 72-hour Roma Pass to 2 attractions for free and several with a discount. The Colosseum is among the attractions you can choose to enter for free. You will also have skip-the-line access. Click here for more info on Roma Pass and to buy it .

Entrance to the Colosseum is free every first Sunday of the month.

How to buy the Colosseum tickets

IMPORTANT: To visit the Colosseum you MUST book your spot so that you have an allocated date and time, otherwise you can’t enter.

From October 18th, 2023, it’s mandatory to have a nominative ticket for all types of entrance tickets, whether you buy it on travel websites, from the call center, or at physical ticket offices. This means that you will be asked to show your ID. To avoid long queues, when you are at the entrance of the Colosseum, keep your ID easy to reach.

Also on October 18th, 2023, the ticket office in Via Salara Vecchia opened for the sale of tickets to individual visitors while supplies last.

Until December 15th, 2023, the Colosseum tickets will cost 1€ extra as part of a fundraising initiative to help the areas hit by the floods in Italy.

Apart from buying them at the entrance, you can purchase your tickets in two more ways:

• online by purchasing your ticket from the official website or online vendors like Get Your Guide . If you have already purchased a Roma Pass or Omnia Card and have free skip-the-line access, you still need to reserve your entrance. You can do so from the website of the official partner Coopculture . If you scroll down, below the opening hours, you will find additional information for Roma Pass holders.
• over the phone by calling the number +39 06 39967700.

Purchasing Colosseum tickets online is your best bet to reduce your queuing time. You can choose to buy only the entrance to the general access area, a fast-track entrance with a video guide, or a private tour that ensures fast VIP access and a tour guide to explain the different parts of the archaeological site, many of which might not be entirely easy to grasp on your own.

Keep in mind that access to the arena and the Colosseum underground is possible only with a certified guide.

These are the options you have to book the entrance as well as some of the best Colosseum tours to skip the line.

READ MORE: Planning a trip and not sure where to book your hotel? Here are the best areas to stay in Rome .

Buy skip-the-line Colosseum tickets online

The first option is to book online your skip-the-queue Colosseum ticket that includes also the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. This is just the ticket and a guided tour is not included. You will be sent also a downloadable map of Imperial Rome.

By booking your online ticket on Get Your Guide, you will be asked to choose a time slot. Click here for more details and to book .

Book a private Colosseum tour

For peace of mind and a more thorough experience, booking a private tour is probably your best option. There are many Colosseum tours so you can choose the one that better fits your needs.

Take Walks offers a VIP-access Colosseum tour that includes also the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, one with also access to the arena and one that includes access to both the arena and the underground .

READ MORE: If you want to delve deep into the history and architecture of this famous Rome landmark, check out our guide to the best Colosseum tours .

Buy official Colosseum tickets

You also have the option to buy your tickets from the Colosseum official site here . There are a few options you can choose from. The ordinary ticket that gives you access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill costs 16€ + 2€ for the reservation and is valid for 1 day and 1 access to each landmark.

Finally, you can buy a ticket to the Colosseum, Roman Forum + Palatine Hill, and SUPER sites, which include the Palatine Museum, Neronian Cryptoporticus, House of Augustus, House of Livia and Temple of Romulus among others. This costs 16 € and buys you 1 entrance to all the sites Visitors are required to show their ID at the Colosseum ticket office. Don’t be late or you can miss the access, which cannot be refunded. Here you will find more details.

Another option (Full Experience Ticket) is to include also access to the arena or the undergrounds in the Colosseum, for which you must have a guide, as well as the SUPER sites. It costs 22 € and is valid for 2 days and 1 entrance to all the archaeological sites (Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill). The ticket includes also the guide.

Colosseum opening times

The Colosseum opens every day at 9 a.m. and closes an hour before sunset. These are the Colosseum opening times for every season:

• January 2nd to February 15th, 9 am–4.30 pm
• February 16th to March 15th, 9 am–5 pm
• March 16th to March 26th, 9 am–5.30 pm
• March 27th to August 31st, 9 am–7.15 pm
• September 1st to September 30th, 9 am–7 pm
• October 1st to October 30th, 9 am–6.30 pm
• October 31st to December 31st, 9 am–4.30 pm

The ticket office of the Colosseum closes an hour before closing time.

The Colosseum will remain closed on December 25th, 2023 and on January 1st, 2024.

What to see in the Colosseum

The archaeological site of the Colosseum is very big and includes several areas. The general area is open to anyone with an ordinary ticket, while the arena and the underground require a different ticket or a certified guide.

As you enter, you will have access to the audience area, where spectators used to spend hours, for some occasions even days, waiting and watching their favorite shows. Which included gory sights of hunts, gladiators fighting against each other and against wild animals brought from Africa. Sometimes even naval battles.

If you go with a guide, whether you booked a private tour or a guide from the Colosseum’s official website, you will easily access the arena and the underground. The arena is where gladiators engaged in the fight, which otherwise, you can only see from the top, while in the underground you can see the complex architecture that led gladiators and animals up to the arena.

Even though Constantine the Great banned the gladiators’ shows in 326, the fights in the Colosseum carried on until 404 when Honorius put an end to them after a monk was stoned to death during a show.

This marked the end of the gory parades but also the beginning of the consistent sacking of the Colosseum. Its marble was turned into lime building material, and its stones were used to build churches and palaces. Adding the heavy damage caused by several earthquakes, it explains some signs of fixing and why some parts collapsed, such as the southern third.

Only in the 18th century did Pope Benedict XIV put an end to the systematic depredation because of the belief that the Colosseum in its heyday had also been used as a place of martyrdom for early Christians. Even this fact didn’t really find historical confirmation, the pope consecrated the amphitheater, making it a symbol of both pagan and Christian times.

New panoramic elevator in the Colosseum

*Update* The use of the elevator will be temporarily suspended from February 8th, 2024.

Recently, a panoramic glass elevator sponsored by the Italian Cinema Orchestra was opened to further increase the already extensive usability of the Colosseum. The elevator guarantees all visitors, with greater attention to those with mobility difficulties, to overcome the 100 steep steps that separate the first tier from the intermediate gallery, thus enjoying a unique view of the entire monument.

Built fully in line and with full respect to the original construction and fitting harmoniously into the monument, the use of pressure anchor points guarantees the total reversibility of the work.

The construction of the lift allows everyone, nobody excluded, to reach the gallery between the 2nd and 3rd levels that has been opened to the public after a painstaking work of restoration and conservation. The history and life behind this newly open space can be experienced thanks to the suggestive lighting system that enhances the construction, the plastered surfaces and graffiti, and an educational set-up to allow for an evocative visit and time travel.

Visiting the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Included in the ticket to the Colosseum is also the entrance to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. These are very interesting archaeological sites because they give a good picture of what life in ancient Rome was like.

While the Roman Forum was the place where daily trading, administrative, and religious life took place, Palatine Hill is home to several imperial villas.

In May 2022, the southern slopes of Palatine Hill reopened for tourists to visit. However, they remain closed from October to spring.

On the same Palatine Hill, however, there still are some places closed to the public. These are:

• Domus Transitoria (Emperor Nero’s first palace)
• Casa di Livia (Livia’s House)

Why you can’t miss Rome’s Colosseum

Symbol of the opulence of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum is a monument to human engineering. Today welcomes thousands of visitors every day, going back to its original purpose when it was built in the 1st century AD.

The world’s largest amphitheater, the Colosseum started its decline in 438 AD, when emperor Valentinian III banned the gladiators’ games. During the Middle Ages, the Colosseum was used for different purposes, such as the place for artisan workshops, a hospital for animals, and even housing. Until only recently a painstaking work of archaeological digging and renovation shed light on its original functions.

Practicalities: Colosseum information + tips

Last but not least, here is all you need to know before you go. Find the Colosseum hours, the Colosseum ticket price, how to save, and where to buy Colosseum tickets.

I will also mention tips on how to get to the Colosseum and what is best not to carry to avoid delays and being refused entrance.

Where it is: the Colosseum address

Piazza del Colosseo 1.

How to get to the Colosseum

By metro is the easiest way to get to the Coliseum. Colosseo station along line B is tight in front of the entrance, so this is the best way to get to the Colosseum from Termini or Ostiense/Piramide.

By bus. Some of the buses arriving directly at the Colosseum are n. 51, 75, 85, 87, 118 to Piazza del Colosseo; tram 3 and 8 in Via Celio Vibenna behind the Colosseum. Alternatively, you can get off in Piazza Venezia and reach the Colosseum with a pleasant walk along Via dei Fori Imperiali.

On foot. If you are staying in a hotel in the city center , getting to the Colosseum walking is the best way so you won’t have to wait for the bus and you can already view other buildings and attractions along the way.

Services for disabled people

The Colosseum features an elevator for disabled people to access the upper floor. You need to ask the staff at the ticket booth and you will be accompanied and on top, there will be more staff to assist.

The complex has also accessible toilets equipped for people with physical disabilities. For this, too, ask the staff.

Ask emperor Nero for info

A new service in the Colosseum and Roman archaeological park is the digital information service with the help of emperor Nero, nonetheless. Whether it’s historical information or practical information for visiting the Colosseum that you need, you just need to ask Nero and he will deliver. Even with more grace he was known for at his time.

Open the official website of the ancient site with your smartphone or tablet and on the bottom left side, your chat box with Nero will open. If you are shy, the emperor will break the ice: “Let me introduce myself. I am Nero, Roman Emperor from 54 to 68 AD… I am here to give service information about the Colosseum Archaeological Park. Dead? Well, yes… but I have been brought back to life as artificial intelligence.”

Start from here and ask him anything, who better than him will know Rome’s imperial times?

What to wear when visiting the Colosseum + what to bring and what NOT to bring.

• Comfortable shoes. Whether you are going to the dungeon and the arena or not, you will walk a lot and climb quite a few stairs, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended. For both the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as ideally you will be visiting these on the same day.
• Sunscreen. If you are going in summer, don’t forget to wear and bring sunscreen with you. The Colosseum is open-air and has hardly any covered space so you will be exposed to the sun almost all the time.
• Bottle of water. Especially in summer, but not only, staying hydrated is important. A visit to Rome’s Colosseum does last for a couple of hours, so carry a bottle of water to ensure that. In the hot season I did see some tourists faint, so take care of your hydration and take something for low blood pressure if you are subject to that. You can refill your bottle from the fountains inside the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
• DO NOT bring a large backpack, wheeled suitcase, or trolley. These are not allowed and there is no cloakroom so you won’t be allowed in. Pick a small backpack, a purse, or a crossbody bag instead.
• DO NOT bring knives or sharp objects. These are not allowed and they will be confiscated. If you don’t want to lose them, don’t bring them with you.
• DO NOT bring spray bottles. Do I need to explain this? Well, it has already happened that vandals ruined historical landmarks by spraying with a paint can, so these will be confiscated.
• DO NOT bring your pets. Animals are not allowed.

READ MORE: Want to know more about the history of this famous Rome landmark? Check out our article on the Colosseum facts and history .

Where to stay near the Colosseum

If you are staying in Rome for two days or so, I suggest booking your hotel around the city center where is the largest concentration of historical landmarks. If it’s your first trip to Rome, chances are you are going to be visiting the Colosseum, so booking your room in Monti or around is a good idea.

Keep in mind that at the entrance of the Colosseum, there will always be a long line. Even though booking your ticket online you will skip the queue, if you are staying nearby, you will have more chance to reach earlier.

Here are some hotels near the Colosseum we suggest checking out.

• High-end: Hotel Palazzo Manfredi – with Colosseum view
• Mid-range: Hotel Capo d’Africa – Colosseo
• Budget: Domus Aurea B&B and Suites
• Apartment: Luxury Domus Apartment 1

Check out our full guide to the best hotels near the Colosseum .

Where to eat near the Colosseum

The Colosseum is possibly the most popular attraction in Rome so it’s only normal that all around it’s one of the most touristy areas in the city. When you are looking for a good, authentic restaurant, this doesn’t help. Here are some of the names, if you want more options, we have written a full list of the best restaurants near the Colosseum .

• Contrario. Vineria con Cucina (Via Ostilia 22). Very close to the Domus Aurea and Parco Archeologico del Colosseo, this cozy restaurant serves seafood dishes and handmade fresh pasta.
• Crab (Via Capo d’Africa 2). Gourmet seafood restaurant with a rich raw menu and oyster selection.
• Aromaticus Monti (Via Urbana 134). Less than 1 km from the Colosseum is the lovely Aromaticus restaurant. Just like Aromaticus Trastevere , they serve very healthy foods and well-balanced dishes. Plant-based and high-quality, they often enrich their recipes with the addition of fermented foods and drinks such as kefir and kombucha.
• Maido (Via Urbana 122). Japanese-style street food place serving specialties like yakisoba, onigiri, miso soup, and the typical savory pancake okonomiyaki.
• Cuoco & Camicia (Via di Monte Polacco 2/4). Cozy and stylish, this modern trattoria serves creative dishes borrowed from tradition and revisited with the personal chef’s touch.

What to see near the Colosseum

If you have some more time after visiting the Colosseum, there are many places to add to your bucket list.

• Basilica dei Santi Cosma e Damiano. For beautiful mosaics.
• Baths of Caracalla. Well-preserved large Roman baths with a Mithra temple underground.
• San Clemente Basilica. A fascinating church where you can see several layers of history from the modern street-level medieval Basilica to the early-Christian church to the ancient Roman street and Mithra temple and school.
• Fori Imperiali. This long road from the Colosseum to Piazza Venezia displays the fora of the Roman emperors.
• Trajan’s Markets. Important administrative office building serving the Forum of Trajan and now hosting the museum of the Fori Imperiali showing buildings and decorations found in the imperial fora.
• Piazza Venezia. One of Rome’s most famous piazzas, here you can see the Vittoriano complex, the Altar to the Fatherland, Palazzo Venezia, and Via del Corso shopping street.
• Capitoline Museums. One of the most important museums in Rome to learn about the city’s history, art, and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best way to see the colosseum in rome.

Being such a popular and crowded landmark, there are some considerations to make when planning to visit the Roman Colosseum.

• Plan ahead. Decide what ticket you want, what you want to visit, and if it’s the case to book a private tour.
• Book your ticket online. This allows you to skip the line at the entrance and choose your time slot.
• Visit also the arena and the underground. For these, you will need to either book a tour or purchase the “Full Experience” ticket for 22€ that includes a certified guide.
• Get there at least 15 minutes earlier. If you book online, you will have the right to a fast entrance but you will still need time to find your entrance, and if you have a specific slot, you should enter at your allocated time.
• Avoid the first Sunday of the month. The ticket is free but the crowds are huge and you will hardly enjoy your visit.
• Consider a guided tour. I always suggest visiting the Colosseum in Rome with the help of a local guide because private tours usually include a skip-the-line entrance, detailed historical information, the entrance to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, and visiting straight the most important landmarks in each of these archaeological sites.

Is the Colosseum in Rome worth visiting?

Absolutely yes! The Colosseum, known as the Flavian Amphitheater because built by the emperors of the Flavian Dynasty, rises in the heart of Ancient Rome. Its gory history and sophisticated architecture attract thousands of visitors every day.

Since its construction in the 1st century, the Colosseum has been the theater for popular shows such as hunting and gladiators’ games and fights. Even though centuries have gone by, the Colosseum shows no sign of cooling. The largest amphitheater in the world, its awe-inspiring appearance is always a source of surprise for first-time spectators.

In ancient times, it was the symbol of the glory and power of the Roman Empire. Now, even though not hosting unconventional shows any longer, it still is an iconic building of Rome revealing its past culture and social habits.

How much time do you need at the Colosseum?

If you have only one day in Rome and rushing as many attractions as possible, you can buy the basic ticket granting general admission to the first and second floors and be done in an hour or so.

If, on the other hand, the Colosseum is a landmark you have always wanted to visit and wish to explore properly and completely, you should set aside at least 2 to 3 hours. Take your time to see all the floors, stop at the Arena, and walk around the underground and dungeon where the gladiators waited to take part in the shows.

Do I need a guided tour of the Colosseum?

Booking a private guided tour is not mandatory to visit the Colosseum. You can book a basic single ticket and visit the areas open to the public, or a Full Experience ticket to be granted access to the arena and the underground. The Full Experience ticket is more expensive than the basic single admission and it includes also a guide.

The benefits of a guided tour lie in a more complete and deeper experience you can get out of your visit. A guide will tell you about the history and the facts of the Colosseum more than what you are going to find in the displayed panels.

With a guide, you will also waste less time looking for ways, stairs, and the different attractions inside the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and also Palatine Hill.

Of course, as a downside, a private tour is certainly more expensive than purchasing a single ticket.

Is there a dress code to visit the Colosseum?

There is no dress code to visit the Colosseum. Not being a holy place, there is no need to keep knees and shoulders covered. However, I suggest wearing comfortable shoes or walking sandals, comfortable trousers, and a hat if it’s summer because the Colosseum is mainly open-air.

Is there a toilet in the Colosseum?

Yes, in the Colosseum there is a toilet that’s also accessible to mobility-impaired visitors. You will find a toilet also inside the Roman Forum.

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Colosseum Underground Tours

Choose the best Colosseum guided tour

Skip The Line Colosseum Underground Night Tour VIP Experience

Experience the Colosseum at night, exploring its underground and arena floor away from crowds. Led by experts, discover gladiatorial battle sites, hidden tunnels, and ancient engineering. Immerse in the history of Roman Empire games and events.

• Skip the line access to the Colosseum
• Access to Colosseum Underground area
• Live guide in English and/or Italian

Best price:

Colosseum, Underground & Arena Floor Guided Tour

890+ reviews

Dig into the Colosseum’s dungeons and the wild animals' holding areas, complete with remains of ancient elevators and trapdoors. Enjoy breathtaking 360º views from the arena, exclusive access to the Colosseum's underground, and single entrance tickets to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, all while benefiting from headsets for clear guidance.

• Skip-the-line tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Headsets to better hear your guide
• Access to Colosseum Arena and Underground areas
• Live guide in English

Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome guided tour

2 900+ reviews

Delve deep in the history of ancient Rome with a guided visit to the Colosseum, its world-famous arena where gladiators fought to the death and the hypogeum, the underground ‘backstage’ network of tunnels and chambers. Continue your journey through time with a tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

• Priority tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Guided Tour of the Colosseum Underground with Roman Forum & Gladiator Arena

4 200+ reviews

Explore the Roman Colosseum with an exclusive skip-the-line underground tour, including special access to the Gladiator Arena, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill over 2.5-3 hours. Enjoy the company of an expert guide with many gladiator tales to share!

• Live guide in English, Italian, German, Spanish or French

Private Colosseum Tour with Arena and Underground

40+ reviews

Explore the Colosseum's underground and arena floor, marvel at the Roman Forum's ruins, and enjoy skip-the-line access with a private guide on this tour from your central Rome hotel, offering a deep dive into ancient history.

• Hotel pickup in private vehicle
• Live guide in German, English, Italian, French or Spanish

Visiting the Underground of the Colosseum

Colosseum’s underground guided tour benefits.

Booking a guided tour of the Colosseum's underground provides visitors with exclusive access to areas normally restricted to the general public as well as a rich historical context that elevates the experience beyond a simple walkthrough. Knowledgeable guides, often with a background in history or archaeology, narrate the compelling stories of what unfolded in these ancient spaces.

Accessibility at the Colosseum’s Underground

The underground levels are not wheelchair accessible due to their structure including stairs and steps. Those with mobility impairments should contact the tour operator before booking to discuss if accommodations can be made.

Exclusive Colosseum Underground Areas

The underground circuit of the Colosseum reveals the dungeons where animals and gladiators awaited their fate, and the complex tunnels where intricate machinery once hoisted them into the arena floor.

The exclusive itinerary of an Underground Colosseum guided tour often includes access through the Gladiator's Gate, a dramatic entrance leading directly to the arena, where combatants once entered to roaring crowds. Visitors will also see the remnants of the elevator systems, a testament to Roman engineering prowess. Additionally, some tours offer the rare chance to stand at the Gate of Death, the exit through which the fallen were carried away.

The depth of detail provided by the expert guide makes it clear why this access is such a privilege, while the panoramic views from various vantage points forge an indelible connection with ancient Rome.

FAQs and tips

The Colosseum

Visit The Colosseum In Rome, Italy

Opening Hours

The Colosseum is open to visitors year round from 8.30 am to one hour before sunset. That means the Colosseum’s opening times vary slightly throughout the year. The following chart includes the full schedule:

Note: The Colosseum’s ticket office closes one hour before the monument’s closing time. If you plan to visit later in the day you need to buy your tickets online in advance, or you won’t be able to get in.

When is the Colosseum closed?

The Colosseum is closed three days a year: December 25th, January 1st, and May 1st .

Is the Colosseum open on Sunday and Monday?

You may have heard that some monuments and attractions in Rome close on Sundays and/or Mondays but that is not the case with the Colosseum. Aside from certain signaled holidays, it is open 7 days a week.

I heard it’s possible to visit the Colosseum at night, is it true?

Yes, you can visit the Colosseum at night . There are guided tours you can join that will take you inside the building, the stands, and through the underground tunnels.

This option is great because the Colosseum is spectacular all lit up at night, and you’ll get to experience it without the large crowds that are common during the day. Check out our tours of the Colosseum page to find out more!

The 5 Best Rome Colosseum Tours With Skip-the-Line Access

A s the most enduring symbol of the Roman Empire and one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Colosseum receives more than 6 million visitors per year, so it's not easy to escape the crowds. A visit is worth it, though, if you want to see the world's largest amphitheater – once known as the Flavian Amphitheater – and try to imagine what it would have been like 2,000 years ago.

A standard ticket to the Colosseum also includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, so many (but not all) tours also include those ancient sites. Inside the ancient complex, there is very little signage explaining what you're looking at. A good guide will not only get you skip-the-line access but also bring these incredible places to life. Keep in mind that most Colosseum tours only give you access to the arena floor and upper level. If you want to visit the underground hypogeum, you need to make sure it's included in the tour.

Crown Tours: Skip the line Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum tour

Price: Adults from $84; kids from $67

Duration: 3 hours

Standout perk: Engaging guides speak several languages.

Selected by GetYourGuide as a Certified Experience, this group tour starts at the Colosseum, then takes you to the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Groups consist of up to 30 people, and tourgoers are given headsets so they can better hear and follow the guide. The tour meets at Largo Gaetana Agnesi on the hill overlooking the Colosseum about 30 minutes before the official entry time to get everyone checked in and set up with headsets. The guide then leads participants into the Colosseum and up to the second level, where there's a chance to stop and take photos. On the way back down, there's another photo-op at the arena level before the guide leads the group over to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum.

Crown Tours also offers guided tours of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica, as well as the Borghese Gallery, Pantheon and other sites.

Local tip: This tour is offered over a variety of time slots every day. Pick one of the earlier time slots to make sure you'll finish up by lunchtime.

Check prices & availability on:

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Through Eternity Tours: Ultimate Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $95

Standout perk: This tour includes the Palatine Hill, which some tours skip.

Recent visitors praise the knowledgeable guides for their passion about ancient history and keeping the tour moving while explaining everything in detail. This tour starts at 9:30 a.m. seven days a week and finishes up around lunchtime. In addition to the Colosseum, highlights include the Via Sacra and the House of the Vestal Virgins in the Roman Forum, as well as the Farnese Gardens on the Palatine Hill.

This tour starts at 9:15 a.m. daily. Groups are limited to 10 people; if six or more people are taking the tour, the guide gives out headsets so everyone can hear. Participants are asked to meet 10 minutes before the start time in front of Cafe/Restaurant Angelino ai Fori on Largo Corrado Ricci. The tour is stroller-accessible, but not wheelchair-accessible. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle, especially on hot days.

Through Eternity Tours offers a variety of group and private tours of Rome and other destinations, including Florence , Naples and Pompeii.

Local tip: Book a table at the nearby Taverna dei Fori Imperiali to enjoy a leisurely lunch after the tour.

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LivTours: The Best of Colosseum & Ancient Rome With Exclusive Arena Access

Price: Adults from $163; kids from $145

Standout perk: Virtual reality headsets show what the ancient sites would have looked like.

Recent tourgoers praise the guides on this tour for bringing the facts and stories about ancient Rome to life. Along with the confirmation email, participants receive an invitation to download an app. During the tour, the guide gives everyone a cardboard virtual reality headset that works with the app and shows a reconstruction of the Colosseum and the surrounding valley. After visiting the Colosseum, the tour continues to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, where the virtual reality headsets show you a reconstruction of the Circus Maximus and the structures in the Roman Forum. At all the sites, you get skip-the-line access.

These semiprivate tours are guaranteed to have no more than six people, making them a more personalized experience than other group tours. However, because the tours are small, the guides don't use headsets, and some participants noted that it can be difficult to hear the guide over the noise in the Colosseum.

Local tip: You can get some great photos from the upper level, especially if you stand at the apex of the oval.

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Roma Experience: Private Colosseum Tour With Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Price: From $531

Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes

Standout perk: See these ancient sites with an archaeologist who dug at the Roman Forum.

For a deeper understanding (no pun intended) of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, a tour with Elisa Valeria Bove, CEO of Roma Experience, is one of the best you can buy. She studied archaeology and has been involved in excavations at the Roman Forum and other sites, so she's just the person to guide you if you want to get beyond the surface level. Her private tours range from just under three hours for a skip-the-line Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tour to the full-day "See Rome in One Day" tour, which also includes a guided visit of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Be sure to specify if you want to visit the hypogeum when you book.

Roma Experience organizes bespoke private tours throughout Italy, including multiday itineraries. Bove will work with you to customize your experience and bring you to places you wouldn't think to visit, like Quintili's Villa on the ancient Appian Way.

Local tip: If you want to see another incredible archaeological park, let Bove take you to Ostia Antica, less than an hour from Rome.

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Imago Artis Travel: Timeless Tales of Gods and Laymen of the Ancient Rome

Price: On request

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: This tour includes the Pantheon in addition to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Founded by three art historians with a passion for Roman art and history, Imago Artis Travel offers bespoke private tours of Rome and beyond. Imago Artis works closely with their clients to craft personalized itineraries that highlight the city's most incredible monuments and hidden gems. This tour lasts a half-day and includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Pantheon, with an optional stop for espresso, but you can customize the itinerary to do a full-day tour or multiday itinerary.

Other itineraries that include the Colosseum bring visitors to the Basilica of San Clemente, known as the "lasagna church" because it was built in layers: The deeper you descend, the further back in time you go. Imago Artis also grants visitors exclusive access to off-limits places, such as a church overlooking the Roman Forum. The company also organizes multiday itineraries throughout Italy.

Local tip: There's an element of surprise and delight with Imago Artis that's hard to find elsewhere, especially if your guide is Fulvio De Bonis, one of the company's founders.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura Itzkowitz is a Rome-based freelance journalist who thinks about the Roman Empire all the time. She has visited the Colosseum in the morning, in the evening after the crowds have left, on group tours and private tours. To curate this list of the best Colosseum tours, she used her own experience as well as her research expertise, culling tips from locals and visitors.

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10 Best Colosseum Tours [2024] + Insider Tips to Choose Correctly

• Isabelle Hoyne
• February 15, 2024

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

Discover Rome’s iconic landmark through the eyes of a seasoned traveller. This guide offers the best Colosseum tours, curated from personal experience and meticulous research

This comprehensive guide is meticulously designed to assist you in selecting the best Colosseum tours in Rome .

As a frequent visitor to Rome since childhood, I have experienced the Colosseum in various ways—both independently and as part of guided tours, and before and after the opening of its underground chambers to the public.

This extensive background has provided me with a nuanced understanding of what constitutes an enriching Colosseum tour.

In this post, you will find not only a carefully curated list of the best tours of the Colosseum in Rome but also invaluable tips on how to choose the tour that best suits your needs .

Each tour has been assessed for its unique merits as well as its potential limitations, offering a balanced perspective to suit diverse travel preferences.

I’ve also tried to present this information in a range of different ways, to help as many people as I can choose the best experience for them – it’s not every day that you get to visit a Wonder of the World.

By drawing upon a wealth of personal experience and thorough research , this guide aims to be your definitive resource for exploring this ancient architectural marvel in a meaningful way.

Make sure to read it for an in-depth understanding of your options.

3 Best Tours of the Colosseum in Rome

First choice.

Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Duration: 3 hours

Selling points: Small group, Expert archaeologist guide, Skip-the-line access

Second choice

VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Duration: 3.5 hours

Selling points: Exclusive underground access, Arena floor experience, Lifelike digital projections

third choice

Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

Selling points: Exclusive Gladiator’s Gate access, Arena floor, Expert archaeologist guide

Bonus! – Best Colosseum Tour for Families

Colosseum and Ancient Rome Family Tour for Kids

Duration: 2.5 hours

Selling points: Child-friendly guide, Interactive learning, Small group 

Overview of Colosseum tours included in this post

The table below provides a concise summary of the top 10 Colosseum tours in Rome that I’ve chosen to incorporate in this post, designed to help you make an informed choice for your visit.

By comparing the features listed, you can easily select a tour that best suits your interests and needs. I’ve outlined these tours in detail further on in this post. 

10 Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

1. skip the line colosseum tour with roman forum & palatine hill.

★ RATING: 7,000+ 5 star reviews! | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

I highly recommend this Colosseum tour for those who want an in-depth look at Rome’s iconic landmarks.

Having taken plenty of Take Walks’ tours across various cities, I can vouch for their expertise and superb quality .

This particular tour covers the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, offering a comprehensive experience of Ancient Rome and has over 7,000+ happy customers. 

As well as its extremely reputable operator, what sets it apart is the small group size, capped at 16 people, and the expert guidance of an archaeologist.

You’ll get to explore the Colosseum without the hassle of waiting in line, thanks to skip-the-line access. Additionally, you’ll have the unique opportunity to view the site of Julius Caesar’s funeral pyre inside the Forum.

The tour also includes headsets for groups larger than six, ensuring you won’t miss a word from your knowledgeable guide.

Overall, I think this tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into Rome’s rich history and is particularly well-suited for travellers who appreciate a more personalised experience .

Reviews: Absolutely excellent tour. The guide was very knowledgeable and clear, and the small group size (~15 people) made it easier to follow and interact with her. The tour went through the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum, with a brief break before ascending Palatine Hill. The pace and length of the tour were great. Overall, we’re really glad we booked this tour.” – Gabriel, Oct 20, 2023, New Zealand Read more reviews here.

Useful information:

• Start Time : 10:30AM and 1:00PM. Meet 15 minutes prior to the tour start time.
• Duration : 3 hours
• Size of Tour : Max 16 people
• Accessibility : Unfortunately, due to the nature of this tour, it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers.
• Included : Local English-speaking guide, Colosseum entrance ticket, Headset for groups over 6 people

2. VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill by Walks of Italy

★ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | ✓ Book now

I think that this VIP tour by Walks of Italy is a fantastic option for those who want to delve into the hidden depths of Rome’s iconic Colosseum.

This tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience , taking you to the underground tunnels where gladiators once waited for battle. You’ll also step onto the famed arena floor and explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who will captivate you with tales of ancient Rome, debunking myths and revealing the truth behind the stadium and the games.

The cherry on top is a brand-new exhibition that brings ancient Rome’s most iconic figures to life through lifelike digital projections .

This tour is perfect for history buffs, families, and anyone seeking an immersive exploration of Rome’s ancient past.

Reviews: “Our guide, Dario, was amazing. He shared his knowledge about Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Forum with us. He also gave us helpful tips as tourists in Rome. He also has a great sense of humour. I would definitely recommend the VIP Colosseum Tour that includes the underground of the Colosseum.” – Rita, Aug 17, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : 8:45AM
• Duration : 3.5 hours
• Size of Tour : Maximum 24 people
• Accessibility : Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments
• Included : Colosseum entrance ticket, guided experience, and headset for groups over 6 people

3. Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

★ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3.25 hours | ✓ Book now

I would highly recommend this special access tour by Take Walks for a truly immersive experience of the Colosseum.

With an impressive 4.7/5 rating from over 5,500 reviews, this tour grants you exclusive access through the Gladiator’s Gate , leading you directly onto the arena floor. This is how gladiators would have entered the ring in times gone by. 

Here, you’ll be removed from the crowds, offering an unparalleled view of the Colosseum’s grandeur. Your expert archaeologist guide will decode the ruins and share captivating stories of ancient Rome.

The tour also includes visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill , where you’ll explore an exquisite collection of ruins.

This tour is perfect for those who want to walk in the footsteps of gladiators and appreciate the Colosseum from a unique perspective .

Reviews: We did the Colosseum Tour with the special access to the arena floor through the Gladiator’s Door. It was well worth it especially the skip the line ticket for the colosseum! We learned so much. Our tour guide, Enza was very knowledgeable. Would recommend!” – Linda, Oct 29, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Varies depending on both day of week and time of year. 
• Duration : 3.25 hours
• Size of Tour : Maximum of 16 travellers
• Accessibility : Not suitable for guests with mobility impairments
• Included : Colosseum entrance ticket, expertly guided walking tour, skip-the-line ticket for Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, headset for groups over 6 people

4. Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Centre

★ RATING: 4.7/5 based on 3,800+ reviews | ? TOUR LENGTH: 7.5 hours | ✓ Book now

If you’re pressed for time but still want to soak in the essence of Rome, this tour by Take Walks is a game-changer .

Unlike other Colosseum-focused tours, this one offers a sweeping experience of Rome’s iconic landmarks , all in just over seven hours.

You’ll not only explore the Colosseum but also the Vatican Museums , Pantheon , Trevi Fountain , and more.

The tour even includes private, air-conditioned transport between the historic centre and the Vatican, ensuring you make the most of your day.

Led by an expert guide, you’ll skip the lines and dive deep into the history and culture of Rome.

This tour is a godsend for travellers who are short on time but big on ambitions for their Roman holiday.

Reviews: “ Exciting fast-paced tour of many of the famous sites of Rome! You will see so much! This is the perfect tour for those who are have limited time in Rome but wish to pack in as much as possible in one day! Skip the line tickets and solid time management on your guides part make this tour possible. The tour is for active persons who do not want a lazy day tour but rather an action-packed tour that gathers more than your 10,000 steps a day! You will be able to see even more than what’s listed and learn so much about the sights, sounds and life of Roma! Far exceeded our expectations! Worth every penny to have seen so much with so little planning on our part!” – Phyllis, Oct 07, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : 9:30AM
• Duration : Over 7 hours
• Size of Tour : Small group of 18 guests maximum
• Included : Skip-the-line tickets for Vatican Museums and Colosseum, private air-conditioned transport, local English-speaking guide, headset when needed

5. VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground & Arena Floor

★ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 2 hrs 45 mins | ✓ Book now

Having personally taken this tour, I can’t recommend it enough (side note: I’ve done a night tour myself ).

With a 4.6/5 rating from over 2,000 satisfied guests , this night tour offers an unparalleled, intimate experience of Rome’s Colosseum.

As the sun sets, you’ll gain VIP access to areas usually off-limits, including the underground and the arena floor.

The Colosseum comes alive in the evening light, and the atmosphere is simply magical.

What I loved most was the serenity and exclusivity the night-time setting offered , making every moment feel surreal and intimate.

The tour also includes visits to other historic Roman monuments, such as the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, adding depth and context to your adventure.

Reviews: “ Last year I was in Rome and did a Coliseum tour in the day . . . I didn’t want to go again after that experience but my family wanted to. I am so glad I did! The night tour was a completely different experience and 100% worth it! Going at night without the intense crowds and not in the heat of the day made it so much easier to immerse yourself into the experience and enjoy the information received. You could actually start to think of what it was like so long ago. Book this tour well in advance, you won’t be sorry!” – Lisa, Sep 24, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Times vary depending on sunset/time of year (please check listing for availability)
• Duration : 2 hours and 45 minutes
• Included : Colosseum entrance ticket plus guided experience

RELATED READING | Is A Colosseum By Night Tour Worth It? An Honest & Comprehensive Review

6. Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill

★ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✓ Book now

If you’re looking to explore Rome’s ancient history in a single outing, this tour is a classic choice and extremely popular, with over 12,000 reviews .

What sets this tour apart is its focus on providing a comprehensive experience led by an expert guide.

You’ll skip the ticket lines and be led through the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, learning about their historical significance and taking in the best spots for pictures.

I recommend this tour for those who want a traditional yet thorough exploration of Rome’s ancient landmarks.

This tour is perfect for history buffs and those who prefer a more structured, guided experience .

Reviews: “Georgia did a fantastic job guiding us through the Colosseum and Roman Forum, keeping the group entertained with her in-depth knowledge of the ruins. Highly recommended!” – Lesley, United States, October 29, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Check availability for starting times; several throughout the day
• Duration : 2.5 hours
• Size of Tour : Maximum 20 people
• Accessibility : Not suitable for people with back problems or mobility impairments
• Included : Tour guide, headsets to hear the guide clearly, entry tickets to Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

7. Colosseum and Ancient Rome Family Tour for Kids

This tour is an absolute gem for families eager to make history come alive for their children.

With a child-friendly guide , you’ll explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and even venture up Palatine Hill.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on interactive learning .

Children engage in treasure hunts and other hands-on activities, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

I highly recommend this tour for families with children. It offers a balanced mix of fun and learning , and the guide keeps both kids and adults entertained, making it a memorable experience for everyone.

This tour is extremely popular, boasting a high rating based on over 220 reviews. Make sure to book early to secure your spot.

Reviews: “Donato was an incredibly knowledgeable and interesting guide. He kept the kids (and adults!) entertained and was very understanding even when the kids pushed the limits. The Colosseum was incredible to see, as was the Forum. And even though we were tired and hot, I’m very glad we pushed ourselves to go up Palatine Hill also, the view was worth it. I highly recommend this tour and Donato.” – Amy, United States, October 12, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : 9:30AM year-round, with 1:30PM in winter and 3:00PM in summer additionally
• Size of Tour : Max 13 participants in total, adults and children
• Accessibility : Not suitable for wheelchair users
• Included : Skip-the-line entrance tickets, child-friendly local guide, prize for the kids

8. Ancient Rome: Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum Private Tour

★ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

This private tour is a treasure trove for history buffs and families alike .

With an expert guide in Ancient Roman history, you’ll enjoy skip-the-line access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

What makes this tour exceptional is the personalised experience it offers.

Your guide will lead you through the heart of ancient Rome, covering its temples, meeting places, and triumphal arches.

I highly recommend this tour for its educational richness and the convenience of having a private guide . It’s perfect for those who want a more intimate and tailored experience exploring Rome’s ancient sites.

Reviews: “We had the best time on our private tour of the Colosseum! Our guide was exceptional! He taught us so much and was wonderful with our children. He went above and beyond to ensure we had our transportation for the day and stayed with us until they arrived. It was a five-star experience!” – Whitney, July 11, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Varies – flexibility as this is a private tour
• Size of Tour : Caters to a variety of (private) group sizes, from 1 to dozens of travellers. Price per person varies depending on size of group.
• Included : Private guide, skip-the-line tickets for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

9. Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour

★ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a flawless 5/5 star rating from an impressive 3,400+ reviews, this award-winning tour is a traveller’s dream.

Although I haven’t personally experienced this tour, its reputation speaks volumes and that is why I’ve included it on this roundup of best Rome Colosseum tours.

Limited to just six peopl e, this semi-private tour offers an intimate exploration of the Colosseum’s underground chambers (which are usually off-limits), the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

You’ll walk on original floors nearly 2,000 years old and hear captivating stories about gruesome gladiator battles.

I highly recommend this tour for history enthusiasts who crave an immersive and intimate experience of ancient Rome.

Reviews: “Fun and informative. My wife and I are extremely appreciated the tour and the tour guide’s experience, knowledge, and humour. She had a lot of information and made it enjoyable for the long day of walking. It was one of our favourite tours of our two-week vacation. We really liked when she shared information on local Roman culture. This was very much worth the time and price. I would strongly suggest this tour to anyone.” – Shane_W, Jul 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time: Varies (please check for availability)
• Size of Tour : Maximum 6 people
• Included : Skip-the-line access, expert guide, visits to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

10.  Rome Colosseum by Night with Underground & Arena Floor Tour

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✓ Book now

For those seeking an immersive experience of the Colosseum, this night tour is a top choice.

Limited to just 10 people , the tour offers an intimate setting perfect for delving deep into the Colosseum’s history.

Imagine walking through the underground tunnels where lions and tigers were once kept, standing where gladiators awaited their fate, and hearing thrilling combat stories under the moonlight.

The storytelling is a real highlight, making the history come alive. Plus, the evening timing means you’ll avoid the heat and crowds.

I highly recommend this tour for those who want a unique, intimate, and engaging experience . It will also suit those who just want to see the Colosseum Underground, as unlike many other night-time Colosseum tours, it just includes the Colosseum itself, without a visit to the Forum and/or other sites. 

Reviews: “Oh my goodness! Seeing the Colosseum at night was everything and more. The lighting at the underground was stunning. The storytelling about the history of the place was engaging. They told us about the architecture, gladiators, the fights and the new improvement done to the catacombs. The pulley system recreated to show how the animals were moved into the area during fights. You really see everything with a different light. And the weather was much cooler at night. BONUS! Absolutely recommend this night tour.” – Leila, September 13, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Options for 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM
• Duration : 2 hours
• Size of Tour : Max 10 people
• Accessibility : This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments
• Included : Colosseum admission, Exclusive Colosseum Underground access, Exclusive Arena Floor access, Professional guide, Headsets, Visits to the Colosseum interior, underground, and arena floor

How to choose the ‘best’ Rome Colosseum tour for you (and what to keep in mind)

Visiting the Colosseum is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many, and choosing the right tour can make all the difference.

Drawing on my own experience of visiting the Colosseum at various times of the day, here are some comprehensive tips to help you make an informed decision.

Types of Colosseum tours

Firstly, it’s important to know that there are different types of Colosseum tours to suit various interests and schedules:

• Daytime General Tours : Ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill and who want to see it all under the light of day. Drawbacks here include a more crowded experience, as it’s the most popular time to visit. 
• Colosseum Underground Tours : These offer a more in-depth look at the Colosseum, including its underground chambers. There will be less crowds, but this will usually command a higher price tag for the more exclusive experience. You can only visit the underground with a licensed guide. 
• Night Tours of the Colosseum : Experience the Colosseum in a different light, literally. These tours are less crowded and offer a unique atmosphere. I’ve done a night tour myself , and highly recommend this option for those who are visiting the Colosseum for the second time around, as well as those looking for a more unique experience, away from the crowds. 

Booking in advance

Whether you’re interested in a general daytime tour, an underground exploration, or a magical night tour, booking in advance is crucial. The best reviewed tours often sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons, so you’ll want to book several weeks in advance. 

Tour availability and timing

Always check the current tour schedules and available days to ensure they align with your visit to Rome. Keep an eye on your emails for any updates from the tour company, as schedules can change, particularly during peak seasons. Your tour may not actually end up departing at the time you originally booked it for. 

Group combining

Be prepared for the possibility of smaller groups from different tours being combined, especially in the underground and night tours. This is often beyond the control of the tour companies, so it’s good to be flexible. The Colosseum hires its own archaeologists and it is they who will bring you through any of the limited access parts, like the underground.

Manage expectations

When reading reviews, you’ll find both praise and criticism for the vast majority of tours. It’s essential to manage your expectations and understand what each tour offers. You’ll be far less likely to be disappointed by your tour if you read the description and reviews thoroughly before you book your tour. 

Additional monument visits

Some tours include visits to other historical sites in Rome. Consider whether you’d like to explore these additional sites to get a more rounded historical experience. It can be a good idea to combine several sites in one if you have the stamina for a tour lasting several hours. 

Best Roman Colosseum Tours: FAQ

Is it worth getting a guided tour of the Colosseum?

Absolutely – I would say that a guide tour of the Colosseum is extremely worthwhile. A guided tour enhances your Colosseum experience by providing historical context, interesting anecdotes, and access to areas that are often off-limits to general ticket holders, such as the underground chambers or the arena floor.

Can you do the Colosseum without a tour guide?

Yes, you can visit the Colosseum without a tour guide. However, you’ll miss out on expert insights and may not have access to special areas like the underground or the arena floor. If you’re a history buff or first-time visitor, I’d highly recommended that you take a guided tour.

How much should I pay for a Colosseum tour?

Prices can vary widely depending on the type of tour and what’s included. Basic tours start around €30-€40 per person, while more comprehensive options like underground or night tours can go up to €100 or more. Always check what’s included in the price, such as skip-the-line access or additional monument visits.

What is the best way to see the Colosseum?

The best way to see the Colosseum depends on your interests. Daytime general tours are great for first-timers, underground tours offer a deeper dive into the Colosseum’s history, and night tours provide a unique, less crowded experience. If you’re a complete history nut like I am, why not visit several times and try out each way of visiting – I have, and have taken away something different each time!

What should I wear for a Colosseum tour?

Comfort is key. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot, and bring a hat and sunscreen for daytime tours. For night tours, I’d suggest a light to warm jacket as it can get chilly.

Is photography allowed during the Colosseum tour?

Yes, photography is generally allowed, but tripods and professional camera equipment might be restricted. Always check with your tour guide to be sure.

How early should I arrive for my Colosseum tour?

I’d recommend that you arrive around 15-30 minutes before your scheduled tour time. This allows for any last-minute changes and ensures you have time to meet up with your tour group. Sometimes, locating the tour group takes a few minutes once you get to the meet-up point. 

Are Colosseum tours accessible for people with disabilities?

Based on the tours I came across when writing this post, it appears that most are not wheelchair-friendly, particularly those that include underground or arena floor access. If accessibility is a concern, it’s crucial to check with the tour provider in advance to determine what accommodations, if any, can be made.

Conclusion: Best guided tour of the Colosseum

In this comprehensive guide, you’ve journeyed through a curated selection of the top 10 Colosseum tours, each dissected for its merits and potential drawbacks.

My top choice, the Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill , stands as a testament to the kind of enriching experience you can expect when you choose wisely.

But the exploration doesn’t have to stop here.

If the allure of the Colosseum’s enigmatic underground intrigues you, you’ll find my review of the Colosseum Underground tour at night with Take Walks to be an essential read. For those who are captivated by the idea of experiencing the Colosseum under the moonlight, my roundup post of the best Colosseum at night tours offers further insights.

Beyond the Colosseum, Rome has so much more to offer.

To make the most of your Roman holiday, consider delving into my itinerary for four days in the Eternal City or read up on how long you should ideally spend in Rome .

Each of these related posts is designed to complement your Colosseum adventure, offering a well-rounded perspective on what Rome has to offer.

Thank you for allowing this guide to be your compass in navigating the best tours of the Colosseum in Rome. Here’s to an unforgettable Roman adventure.

Related reading for visiting Rome

• 4 day Rome itinerary |  The Perfect 4-Day Rome Itinerary – Food, Culture & A Little Luxury
• Rome at night |  19 Things To Do At Night In Rome, From Culture To Cocktails
• Visiting the Colosseum at night |  Is A Colosseum By Night Tour Worth It? An Honest & Comprehensive Review
• Best colosseum underground tours | 9 Best Colosseum Underground Tours – Dive into Gladiatorial Rome
• Colosseum by night tours | Best Colosseum by Night Tours: 9 Top Picks for 2024
• Best Colosseum tours | 10 Best Colosseum Tours [2024] + Insider Tips to Choose Correctly
• Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast itinerary |  A Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast Itinerary for Culture, Food & Scenery
• Florence, Rome, Amalfi Coast itinerary |  A Sophisticated Florence, Rome & Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• How many days do you need in Rome | How Long to Stay in Rome? Insider’s Advice on the Perfect Trip Length

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Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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By: History.com Editors

Updated: July 11, 2022 | Original: November 9, 2009

Located just east of the Roman Forum, the massive stone amphitheater known as the Colosseum was commissioned around A.D. 70-72 by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty as a gift to the Roman people. In A.D. 80, Vespasian’s son Titus opened the Colosseum—officially known as the Flavian Amphitheater—with 100 days of games, including gladiatorial combats and wild animal fights. After four centuries of active use, the magnificent arena fell into neglect, and up until the 18th century it was used as a source of building materials. Though two-thirds of the original Colosseum has been destroyed over time, the amphitheater remains a popular tourist destination, as well as an iconic symbol of Rome and its long, tumultuous history.

Origins of the Colosseum

Even after the decadent Roman emperor Nero took his own life in A.D. 68, his misrule and excesses fueled a series of civil wars. No fewer than four emperors took the throne in the tumultuous year after Nero’s death; the fourth, Vespasian, would end up ruling for 10 years (A.D. 69-79). The Flavian emperors, as Vespasian and his sons Titus (79-81) and Domitian (81-96) were known, attempted to tone down the excesses of the Roman court, restore Senate authority and promote public welfare. 

Around 70-72, Vespasian returned to the Roman people the lush land near the center of the city, where Nero had built an enormous palace for himself after a great fire ripped through Rome in A.D. 64. On the site of that Golden Palace, he decreed, would be built a new amphitheater where the public could enjoy gladiatorial combats and other forms of entertainment.

Did you know? Archaeologists believe that the Colosseum contained both drinking fountains and latrines.

Building of the Colosseum 

After nearly a decade of construction—a relatively quick time period for a project of such a grand scale—Titus officially dedicated the Colosseum in A.D. 80 with a festival including 100 days of games. A well-loved ruler, Titus had earned his people’s devotion with his handling of recovery efforts after the infamous eruption of Vesuvius in A.D. 79, which destroyed the towns of Herculaneum and Pompeii . The final stages of construction of the Colosseum were completed under the reign of Titus’ brother and successor, Domitian.

The Colosseum: A Grand Amphitheater

Measuring some 620 by 513 feet (190 by 155 meters), the Colosseum was the largest amphitheater in the Roman world. Unlike many earlier amphitheaters, which had been dug into hillsides to provide adequate support, the Colosseum was a freestanding structure made of stone and concrete. The distinctive exterior had three stories of arched entrances—a total of around 80—supported by semi-circular columns. Each story contained columns of a different order (or style): At the bottom were columns of the relatively simple Doric order, followed by Ionic and topped by the ornate Corinthian order. Located just near the main entrance to the Colosseum was the Arch of Constantine, built in A.D. 315 in honor of Constantine I’s victory over Maxentius at Pons Milvius.

Inside, the Colosseum had seating for more than 50,000 spectators, who may have been arranged according to social ranking but were most likely packed into the space like sardines in a can (judging by evidence from the seating at other Roman amphitheaters). Awnings were unfurled from the top story in order to protect the audience from the hot Roman sun as they watched gladiatorial combats, hunts, wild animal fights and possibly even larger combats such as mock naval engagements (for which the arena was said to be flooded with water) put on at great expense. The vast majority of the combatants who fought in front of Colosseum audiences in Ancient Rome were men (though there were some female gladiators ). Gladiators were generally enslaved peoples, condemned criminals or prisoners of war.

The Colosseum Over the Centuries

The Colosseum saw some four centuries of active use, until the struggles of the Western Roman Empire and the gradual change in public tastes put an end to gladiatorial combats and other large public entertainments by the 6th century A.D. Even by that time, the arena had suffered damaged due to natural phenomena such as lightning and earthquakes. 

In the centuries to come, the Colosseum was abandoned completely, and used as a quarry for numerous building projects, including the cathedrals of St. Peter and St. John Lateran, the Palazzo Venezia and defense fortifications along the Tiber River. Beginning in the 18th century, however, various popes sought to conserve the arena as a sacred Christian site, though it is in fact uncertain whether early Christian martyrs met their fate in the Colosseum, as has been speculated.

By the 20th century, a combination of weather, natural disasters, neglect and vandalism had destroyed nearly two-thirds of the original Colosseum, including all of the arena’s marble seats and its decorative elements. Restoration efforts began in the 1990s, and have proceeded over the years, as the Colosseum continues to be a leading attraction for tourists from all over the world.

HISTORY Vault: Colosseum

The Roman Empire is vividly brought to life through the lens of the Colosseum.

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Soviet Tour in Moscow

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Description

Highlights:.

• Explore a massive Soviet Park VDNKh (or VVC);
• Experience this special feeling of the good old Soviet times & dark and gloomy Cold War era;
• Get to the highest spot in Moscow city and one of the deepest metro in the world;
• Find out the rough truth about the insane 900-day siege of Leningrad (present St Petersburg);
• Take in the Triumphal Arch;
• Capture an extraordinary sculpture-memorial to the Holocaust;
• Join a guided Bunker-42, Cold War Museum tour (optional, not included in the price).
• See a harmony trio: an orthodox church, a synagogue and a mosque all in one park.

Tour Itinerary

With the 1000-year history, Russia has had a rich portfolio of conflicts, battles, wars. On this Soviet tour, we'll talk about various wars that happened in Russia, focusing on WWII.

Mother Russia has undergone a lot in its long life. Since ancient times, Russian rulers have taken nearly all political power into their own hands. By the beginning of the 20th century, the Russian oppositional movement was deadly set for the total destruction of the ever-lasting tsarist regime. All of Russia got involved in the bloody revolution of 1917 in an effort to abolish the current state of the government and gain freedom for the ordinary people.

You will learn about the every-day life of the Soviet people during the bloody Second World War with the Nazis, including the legendary Battle for Moscow, the 900-day siege of Leningrad, the hardships that local citizens went through, the consequences of the war and the scars it left on the Soviet people, as well as why the Cold War happened and what was the fundamental reason.

Our mission on the Soviet Russia tour is to find out

• - How much this 1917 revolution cost the people;
• - Whether they actually got the freedom they wanted and was it worth it;
• - What happened over the next 74 years;
• - Who were the main political communist leaders of the Soviet Union;
• - Were Russians happy and satisfied with the Soviet Union?

Our tour itinerary will lie in most Soviet areas of Moscow, which are quite spread throughout the city, as very few of them are left. You can choose how much you are ready to live this Soviet life on a 5, 7 or 10-hour tour. Depending on the duration of the tour, you will see part or all of the places below:

If you want to extend the tour, you are welcome to do so by paying $20/extra hour in cash on the tour.

Time stands still in Red Square. The Red Square is the heart of Moscow (and whole Russia). Saint Basil's Cathedral will make your mouth drop. If it is from May-October, have a cocktail on the outside terrace and simply people watch! The massive square offers so much to enjoy.

Lenin's Mausoleum

The burial place of one of the most influential communist leaders in the world.

Revolution Square Metro Station

Rub the Soviet dog's nose for good luck and admire the 76 bronze sculptures, devoted to the passionate, strong-willed and patriotic Soviet people.

Poklonnaya Hill

The highest point in Moscow, where Napoleon waited for keys of the city.

All-Russian Exhibition Center (VVC)

With its giant arch, amazing fountain, and huge pavilions of different Soviet Republics.

Victory Park Metro Station

The deepest undeground station in Moscow and one of the deepest in the world.

Victory Park

For an open-air museum as big as 135 ha (1 350 000 square meters), Victory park sure doens't lack diversity. The park is dedicated to the Russian victory in WWII, and was laid out in 1995 in commemoration of 50-year anniversary of victory.

Stalin had planned for its construction already in 1941, being sure of victory from the very start of the war.

Greeting Hill

The highest points in Moscow (172 meters), where Napoleon waited for keys of Moscow in vain.

Triumphal Arch

Stunning monument consisting of 12 cast-iron columns, each 12 meters high, and weighing 16 tons. Built to mark Russia's victory over Napoleon in 1812.

Museum of the Great Patriotic War

In the city that is as much about wars as it is about victories, there is one essential stopover - the Museum of the Great Patriotic War (that's what WWII is called in Russia). Must-do for those wishing to understand Russia's past and look at the whole war from the different perspective - Russian.

The museum is not for the faint-hearted. Here you can see films about the partisan experience, the scenes that will haunt you forever (no subtitles, but they are not necessary).

Museum of Contemporary History (from outside only)

We'll have a glance at Russian life of the XX century in the  Museum of Contemporary History , which houses bits of everything from Russian history of XXth century: from English club to a storage of Stalin's presents.

Memorial to the Holocaust,

devastating and breath-taking!

Unleash your inner spy. Highly recommended  Bunker-42 ,  Cold War Museum , explore the place where Khrushchev lived during the Cuban Crisis. Go down 18 floors to a gigantic bunker under Moscow that was designed to withstand a nuclear attack. Watch a short film about the severity of the Cold War. If you lived through the Cold War, you will hardly believe it is possible that you are in Bunker 42!

Wander through  Sparrow Hills  and climb up to the highest observation deck of Moscow with stunning views of all seven Stalin’s skyscrapers, including  Moscow State University . After that, experience the excitement of taking a  river cruise  on the Moscow river and catch the views of the Kremlin and Soviet times.​

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting tour, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

*This WW2 and Cold War tour can be modified to meet your preferences.

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Your 48-hour tour guide of Moscow this winter!

9 am – Visit the Red Square 

Christmas market on Red Square

The first thing that every tourist should do by default is visit the very heart of Moscow – it’s main and most beautiful (which ‘krasnaya’ actually meant in Old Russian) square! 

There are several ways to explore it:

• Take a selfie with Spasskaya Tower
• Have a warm drink at the Christmas market (which lasts until mid-January)
• Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum
• Shop in the gorgeous adjacent GUM department store
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral (and learn that it’s actually several churches under one roof).           

11 am – It’s Kremlin time! 

Inside the Moscow Kremlin

Entering the Kremlin is, actually, a bit of a quest, as it’s a presidential facility with no general access. You need to buy a ticket or, better still, book a guided tour. Inside the Kremlin’s walls, you will find ancient cathedrals, in which Russian tsars used to be crowned and buried, as well as explore the magnificent architecture of the Kremlin that reflects the rich history of the country. And, finally, you could also make a quick visit to the Moscow Kremlin Museums and admire artifacts from various Russian tsarist eras: carriages, thrones, crowns and the most incredible armory and jewelry. 

For more information, visit the official website of the Kremlin . It’s open from 10 am to 5 pm (and it’s closed on Thursdays) in winter.

2 pm – Watch the changing of the Guard

The honor guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

A very spectacular (and free) thing to do is watch how the honor guard does their ceremonial change at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame, situated in Alexander Garden, right next to the Kremlin wall. Every hour, from 8 am to 8 pm, the 1st Company of the Kremlin (Presidential) Regiment performs this rather old and beautiful tradition. But, be warned, it's often overcrowded. 

3 pm – Enjoy a green oasis just in the center

Florarium in Zaryadye

Just a few steps from the Red Square, you will find the fabulous Zaryadye park. Opened in 2017, it is designed by renowned American architect bureau ‘Diller Scofidio + Renfro’. You can walk among the very cozy botanical decorations and explore Russia’s climate zones, as each of them is represented in dedicated areas, complete with flora from those zones.

The floating bridge in Zaryadye Park

The park also has an underground museum, an “ice cave” and a 3D cinema, where you can take part in a virtual adventure – a flight over Moscow! However, the piece de resistance is a floating boomerang bridge over the Moskva River, one of the best places to take a selfie.

You can also grab a quick lunch or relax with a cup of coffee or tea in the park.

7 pm – Arrange a ballet night

The Bolshoi Theater

Of course, the most fancy way to finish your day in Moscow would be to go to the ballet at the Bolshoi Theater (in a perfect world, to see ‘The Nutcracker’!). However, getting tickets to the Bolshoi is not an easy task and should be done well in advance of your visit. 

But, don’t be upset if you don’t manage to get tickets to the Bolshoi. Moscow has dozens of other options to see a ballet (or opera). No less brilliant performances can be seen in the Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Music Theater or in The State Kremlin Palace (by the way, this is another way to get a quick glimpse inside the Kremlin!).

10:30 pm – Have a late dinner in a fancy restaurant

Dr Zhivago restaurant

There are not so many other cities with such a big choice of restaurants in a range of tastes and styles. In 2021, the authoritative Michelin guide announced their pick of the best of Moscow’s restaurants. And here’s our guide to all the places with Russian cuisine for any budget. But, if you happen to be in the area of the Bolshoi or Nemirovich-Danchenko Theater, then ‘Dr. Zhivago’ would definitely be a nice option (and it’s open around the clock).

DAY 2 

9 am – grab a moscow coffee.

Winter festivities mood in Moscow

Moscow is definitely a coffee city! You can find coffee shops on every corner and they all offer a huge range of drinks. Try a ‘raf’ coffee, a sweet, creamy drink that was created in Russia, or dare to pick one of the very unusual offers, like cheese coffee or a Soviet candy style one (check out our coffee guide here ).

10 am – Take a river cruise

Winter boating along the Moskva River

Another exciting way to explore Moscow is to observe it from the water. Boats cruise along the Moskva River all year round. Most begin their route from the Hotel Ukraine, one of Stalin's ‘Seven Sister’ skyscrapers, and will bring you back to the same spot after passing the medieval Novodevichy Convent, Moscow State University and Luzhniki Stadium, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and giant monument to Peter the Great and many other sightseeings. 

It’s always at optimum temperature inside the boat, which also has huge panoramic windows. Select boats also offer a full dining experience, so it is also a nice place to have breakfast or lunch.

If you are not a water person, then discover other, unusual sides of Moscow – pick one of the activities we’ve prepared for you here ! 

1 pm – Visit ‘Russia’ Expo and taste a bunch of Russian regional cuisines

Russia Expo at VDNKh

Until April 2024, the Soviet-era VDNKh exhibition park is hosting the huge ‘Russia’ expo, with tons of activities and expositions devoted to Russia, its culture, science and nature. Check out our special guide on what to do there!  

An entire ‘House of Russian Cuisine’ has been opened at the expo. You will find 15 food stands with flagship dishes from Kamchatka, Siberia, Karelia and other regions of Russia. Imagine trying a range of cuisines and dishes in one place without even having to travel anywhere, be it Altai pelmeni, Tula kalach or Caucasian pies! A perfect place to grab some lunch.

House of Russian cuisines at VDNKh

The VDNKh exhibition park is a great place to visit, in general! Its pavilions are the perfect example of Stalinit Empire style architecture and you can almost feel as if you’ve traveled back in time! You will also find several interesting museums in the park – devoted to space exploration, Russian history and even a ‘Special Purpose Garage’, which showcases the various vehicles used by the country’s leaders. 

'Sun of Moscow' wheel

And, finally, you can ride Europe's tallest panoramic wheel – ‘Sun of Moscow’ – that will give you panoramic views of the city – from a height of 140 meters!

5 pm – Ice skate with view & mulled wine

Ice skating rink on Red Square (GUM department store on the background)

Ice skating is one of the most popular and affordable activities in Moscow. There are several great ice skating rinks in picturesque locations that are open all winter long. One of the biggest rinks in Europe is also at the aforementioned VDNKh or you can visit the one in Gorky Park, another very popular Moscow spot, or the small, but fancy rink – right on Red Square! 

All the parks offer ice skate rental, so the only things you need are warm clothes, a charged phone to record your memories and a good mood!  Moscow also gets dark at 4:30 pm in winter and hundreds of lights are switched on, turning the city into a giant fairy tale! 

A mulled wine with a view

And, if you are not a sports person, we’ve picked several other unusual activities that you could do in Moscow instead. For example, did you know that there is an entire district of dacha (countryside) houses, just 10 minutes from the center, surrounded by giant new highrises? How about taking a stroll there and feeling the early Soviet atmosphere?

8 pm – Warm up & laugh out loud

After all these outdoor activities, what could be better than a warm cozy bar with a hot drink and nice company? Moscow is a city full of entertainment for all tastes. So, if you know the Russian language or want to practice it, go to a theater or catch a stand-up comedy show. Moscow even has comedy shows in English, where you can hear both Russians speaking fluent English or foreigners (including Brits and Americans) who live in Russia speaking in broken or heavily-accented Russian (Check their show dates on the ‘ Moscow English Comedy ’ Telegram channel)!

11 pm – Finish by partying the night away!

Propaganda club in Moscow

Moscow never sleeps, as you might have heard. Which means there are plenty of bars and nightclubs where you can have a drink (or two or three; be sure to check out how Russians make Black Russian and White Russian cocktails) and chat with incredibly different people. Have fun and don’t miss your flight (or miss it and stay longer in the best city in the world!)!

That's it! See you soon in Moscow

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Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

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A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

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Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

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Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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