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

• Isabelle Hoyne
• May 10, 2024

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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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10 Best Colosseum Tours to Book in 2024 + Planning Tips

Symbol of Romans’ engineering genius, here you will find the best Colosseum tours to discover and delve into one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Also known as Amphitheatre Flavium, it was built around 70AD. Since then, it has been the place for shows and games as well as a period of decline after the fall of the Roman Empire. After centuries, this huge amphitheater has shown no sign of cooling and keeps the record of being one of the most popular Rome attractions and one of the best Roman archaeological sites.

There are many ways you can visit the Colosseum , and while going independently might sound cheaper, it can also be quite time-consuming and not as valuable as booking a Colosseum private tour. Why? Because with a tour you can skip the line and save plenty of time, especially in crowded seasons, and because a tour leader can talk to you about historical Colosseum facts and anecdotes that otherwise you might not discover on your own.

Find here the best tours of the Colosseum in Rome. Choose the experience that better fits your needs and travel preferences. All these tours include Colosseum tickets skip-the-line to make sure you don’t queue for an hour or two and don’t take too much time off the other Roman landmarks .

Even though it’s one of Rome’s main tourist attractions, there are many things to know and learn about this ancient amphitheater. This is why a Colosseum and Roman Forum tour is essential if you are interested in going beyond just looking at the architecture.

Whether you book a private Colosseum underground tour or an exclusive Colosseum night tour, you will learn and see much more than with a simple ticket entrance to the general access area. We selected the best Colosseum tours for every preference. Whether you only want to visit the general access areas while learning about the whole structure, or also walk the arena floor and gladiators’ dungeon.

Table of Contents

Best Roman Colosseum tours picked by us

Colosseum tour with underground, arena & gladiator gate with roman forum.

This is a semi-private tour of the Colosseum run by LivTours. It’s one of the most complete Colosseum tours because it’s all-inclusive of all the Colosseum sectors, both those open to the general public and those accessible only with a certified tour guide such as the Arena Floor, the Gladiator’s Gate, and the fantastic Undergrounds.

I have visited the underground level of the Colosseum and I think it’s one of the most important sections, revealing the majesty of the landmark and its complicated architecture.

On this semi-private tour of the Colosseum of 6 participants max, you will have an expert guide showing you around these huge ancient sites and explaining their importance and purpose in Roman times.

Quick facts:

• How long: 3 hours and 15 minutes
• How many people: 6 max
• Skip the line: Yes
• Sights included: Colosseum (with Underground, Arena floor, Gladiator’s Gate), Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Julius Caesar’s altar, Basilica of Maxentius.
• Price: adults 159€, teenagers 13-17yo 149€, children 3-12yo 144€, free for under 3.

Click here for more info and to book

Skip-the-line Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

A popular Colosseum private tour, this will also take you to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. With a maximum of 15 people per group, this itinerary through ancient Rome is easy to follow and hear even when the Colosseum is crowded. Which is most of the time.

You will travel through history and learn about the fights, mass executions, and naval battles of one of Rome’s monuments to the human genius.

You will explore the Colosseum for about an hour and then your guide will take you to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Here you will walk through the daily life and politics of ancient Rome and see where Julius Caesar was cremated.

One of the best tours of the Colosseum and the Forum, the explanation of all the places goes in-depth while remaining intriguing and amusing. While this tour includes a skip-the-line ticket, it won’t take you to see the underground level or to stop on the Arena floor.

• How long: 3 hours
• How many people: 15 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Julius Caesar’s altar.
• Price: Prices vary depending on the day and on the time. Adults’ tickets range between 59 to 100€, children up to 14yo between 55 and 93€, free for under 2.

VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

This is another Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine tour. Here you also have access to the underground and the arena floor for a complete experience.

If you are looking for the best Colosseum underground tour, do check this out. With a maximum of 24 people, enjoy the lesser-busy parts of the Colosseum, which not many visitors get access to as a certified guide is required.

After visiting the underground where animals and gladiators awaited their fate and the arena floor where shows took place, you will walk around the general access areas. This tour is very interesting in that you will have the chance to visit areas of the Colosseum that are only accessible with a guide like the underground and dungeon built for the gladiators to wait to enter the arena and meet their fate.

Finally, you will visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for a complete experience of ancient Rome.

• How long: 3.5 hours
• How many people: 24 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Colosseum Underground, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Arch of Constantine.
• Price: Prices vary depending on the day and on the time. Adults from 119€, children up to 14yo from 114€, free for under 2.

Click here for more info and to book .

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

Top Tier Semi-Private Colosseum Tour with Panoramic Glass Elevator

This is an exclusive semi-private tour that will take you around the Colosseum and up the panoramic glass elevator. This Colosseum tour doesn’t include a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill but it will take you to the newly-opened upper tiers of the Roman amphitheater through the glass elevator.

The view is incredible both from the top and while climbing. You will not only be able to enjoy a privileged view of the Roman Forum but also of the skyline of Rome.

• How long: 1.5 hours
• Sights included: Colosseum, glass elevator.
• Price: Adults from 109€ but the minimum of the tour is 2 people so it starts from 218€ for 2 all-inclusive, teenagers 13-17yo 99€, children 3-12yo from 94€, free for under 3.

Gladiators’ Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

This skip-the-line Colosseum tour allows you to enter from the gladiators’ gate directly to the arena floor. From here, you will have a full view of the spectators’ stalls. From here, emperors and the audience watched the shows and cheered at their favorite gladiators.

After walking through the restricted areas and learning about their history and construction, the tour will continue to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Here is where the wolf found Romulus and Remus and Rome was founded .

• How many people: 25 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Gladiator’s Gate, Arena floor, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill.
• Price: Prices vary depending on the day and on the time. Adults 63-107€, children up to 13-17yo 59-96€, free for under 2.

READ MORE: Do you want to have different experiences and visit more places? Check out the other great Rome tours !

Private Colosseum Tour Including Ancient City

This is a private tour of the Colosseum in which you will have your private expert guide who will be able to personalize the experience according to your needs. The tour includes priority access to all the sights and gives you the option to add Gladiators’ school experience for kids for an extra charge.

• How many people: Private
• Sights included: Colosseum main floor and 1st tier, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill.
• Price: 429€ for 2 participants all-inclusive, teenagers 13-17yo 69€, children 3-12yo 64€, free for under 3.

Rome in A Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum and Historic Centre

If you are short on time but still want to visit as much as you can, including the Colosseum and the main highlights of the Vatican, this is the tour for you.

It’s a full-day Rome tour of a little less than 8 hours where you will visit the city’s main landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain and obviously the Colosseum with a fast-track entrance.

This is a pretty daring tour, as Rome is very hard to visit in a day, but if this is all the time you have and still want to make the most out of it, you can only do it with an expert tour guide.

• How long: 7 hours and a half.
• How many people: 18 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Centro Storico, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Capitoline Hill.
• Price: adults 139€, children up to 14yo 129€, free for under 2.

READ MORE: Check out my detailed post for more tips on the best way to visit the Colosseum and enjoy your experience.

Private Colosseum Guided Tour with Underground & Ancient Rome

This is one of the private Colosseum tours by LivTours. You will be shown the Colosseum in all its parts, including those generally restricted to the public, at your own pace with your expert guide able to customize the experience for you.

You will also visit the Roman Forum, the very heart of the ancient city, where temples, villas and the Senate house were built. Here daily life went on thousands of years ago. One of my favorite areas within the Roman Forum is the altar devoted to Julius Caesar. After his death, he was deified and still now his fellow citizens bring him fresh flowers. Part of the tour is also Palatine Hill, the birthplace of Rome.

You can also request pick-up and drop-off services for an extra charge.

• How long: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Sights included: Colosseum, Colosseum underground, Arena Floor, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill.
• Price: 519€ for 2 people all-inclusive, teenagers 13-17yo 89€, children 3-12yo 84€, free for under 3.

Colosseum Tour + Gladiator’s Entrance

This tour will make live the gladiators’ experience from the beginning. First of all, you will access the Arena from the Gladiators’ Gate to have a feel of what the famous fighters as well as the people sentenced to death by wild animals would have felt before meeting their fate.

Your visit will cover all areas and floor of the Colosseum making you relive all the thrill and the ferment of its heyday under all perspectives, whether it’s the gladiators or the public. An expert guide will talk you through the history, the technical details of the Colosseum’s architecture, and the activities the audience engaged in.

Once you are done exploring the Colosseum, you will make your way to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill where your guide will explain the importance of these archaeological sites in Ancient Rome. Your guide will also show you 3D images to show you what these areas looked like at their highest moment.

• How many people: 20 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Gladiators’ Gate, Colosseum Dungeon, Arena Floor.
• Price: adults €50, children 6 to 17yo €44, free for children under 6.

Colosseum Skip-the-Line Self-Guided Virtual Reality Tour

If you’d rather book only a skip-the-line Colosseum ticket and explore the site with your own 3D virtual device, you can check out this tour.

For around 30€, you will rent an audio guide with headphones for which you can choose your language. This is a device for 3D interactive reconstruction of the Colosseum to “relive” the shows taking place 2000 years ago.

If you don’t want a guide and want to experience the Colosseum at your own pace, this is a good option. You will also have fast-track access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

• How long: 2 hours
• Sights included: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill.
• Price: from €59.90 per person.

READ MORE: Visiting Rome for the first time? Check out our detailed guide to the top Rome attractions .

Which tour of the Colosseum is best?

My favorite tour companies in Rome are Walks and LivTours . I have taken many tours with them so it’s only natural that these are what I recommend. The best Colosseum tours to book are those that also include the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill so that in one tour you will have visited some of the most important archaeological sites in Rome . Ideally, they should be also inclusive of skip-the-line tickets which help avoid waiting up to an hour during hot summer days in the line.

This comes really handy especially if you are traveling to Rome with kids or elderly friends and family. If one of the things to do in London with kids in fact is to discover Harry Potter’s places, in Rome, this goes for gladiators and ancient Roman shows and fights.

Countless companies are providing fantastic tours of the Colosseum in Rome. For a more complete experience, you can book a tour that includes also the Arena Floor and/or the Underground because you are going to have the full picture of what was really going on during the famous shows in Ancient Rome, how the Colosseum was built and organized, and what happened backstage.

We have listed some of the best Colosseum tours for you to help you decide which one is best for you.

Is it worth getting a guided tour of the Colosseum?

Getting a guided tour of the Roman Colosseum is totally worth it if you want to learn more than what you would grasp by looking at the ruins by yourself. A tour will be led by an expert guide, often a historian or an archaeologist, who will give you insights you are likely to miss on your own.

I have visited the Colosseum many times, sometimes on my own and sometimes on a guided tour. The historians leading the tours I took incredibly increased the value and my knowledge about the place, its complex architecture, its original appearance, what everybody would do inside the Colosseum, whether they were the fighters, the staff coordinating the different parts, and the public.

Is the Colosseum Underground tour worth it?

Booking a tour where also the Colosseum Underground is included is always a great option. The undergrounds and the dungeon had their specific purpose and required great engineering skills to be built. So it’s important to get to know also this area to make your experience more complete.

Not all the tours include also the Colosseum Underground, just like they don’t all include the Arena Floor. These are the areas that are not open to the general public who only booked a standard ticket and they require a guide to access. Usually, the undergrounds and the arena floor are on the same tours and these are the experiences I recommend.

Can you do a self-guided tour of the Colosseum?

You can always book skip-the-line tickets and explore the Colosseum at your own pace. These will give you access to the floors open to all visitors. If you want to access also the arena floor and the dungeon, you will need to book a private tour with a certified guide.

How long should you spend at the Colosseum?

I recommend staying at least 2 to 3 hours inside the Colosseum to visit and explore all its areas and sections, so the bleachers where the spectators watched the shows and fights, the undergrounds and the area floor.

Tips to enjoy your Colosseum tour

• Book online. Whether you are doing a private guided tour or an official certified tour, booking online is always recommended even if you are only buying a skip-the-line ticket.
• Bring your ID. Don’t forget your national ID or passport as they will be checked at the entrance.
• Get there early. Even if you have a specific time for the start of your tour, I suggest getting there at least 10 to 15 minutes earlier to meet your tour guide and to
• Wear comfortable shoes. Inside the Colosseum, you will walk a lot and you will occasionally do some stairs so definitely you don’t want to wear high heels or even flip flops. Wear a pair of runners, sneakers, or walking sandals.
• Don’t wear a backpack. Backpacks and wheeled suitcases are not allowed in the Colosseum and there is no cloakroom so don’t carry yours otherwise it will be confiscated or you won’t be allowed in. You can bring a purse or a crossbody bag.
• Bring a bottle of water. Don’t forget to carry a reusable water bottle to remain hydrated. Inside the Colosseum, there are also small fountains where you can refill it.
• Wear sunscreen or a hat. Visiting the Colosseum takes place almost completely open-air so in summer make sure you don’t forget to wear sunscreen or a hat.

Wondering where to eat near the Colosseum? Check out our list of the top restaurants!

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The 5 best rome colosseum tours with skip-the-line access.

Gladiators battled on the arena floor. A good guide will help you battle the crowds.

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Courtesy of ArcheoRunning

As 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

Getty Images

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:

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

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $95 Duration: 3 hours

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

Courtesy of LivTours

Price: Adults from $163; kids from $145 Duration: 3 hours

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.

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

Courtesy of Roma Experience

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.

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

Courtesy of Imago Artis Travel

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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tickets purchased directly from the Colosseum ticket office range from 16 to 32 euros (about $17 to $34) plus a 2 euro (about $2) booking fee. Tickets are 2 euros (about $2) for travelers ages 18 to 25. On the first Sunday of the month, the Parco archeologico del Colosseo offers free admission. If purchasing through a tour or travel company, prices will vary.

Yes, it is worthwhile taking a tour of the Colosseum. Travel back over 2,000 years to learn about the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, explore Roman architecture and learn about the grand arena where gladiators once fought.

The best time to visit the Colosseum is from November through February during the offseason.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Rome Tours: Food, The Vatican & More
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• The Best Things to Do in Rome
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

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The 7 Best Colosseum Tours [2024 Reviews]

Don't miss this marvel of roman engineering with a guided tour of the colosseum.

How much is it to tour the Colosseum in Rome? If you were to purchase a ticket when you arrive at this massive, ancient structure, it usually isn’t much more than 12 euros.

However, this general admission ticket doesn’t provide much value. These are some of the top Colosseum tours available. Several of these tours also include access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Some are guided, giving you more of the history and legends of the Roman Colosseum.

Be sure to see our reviews of Amalfi Coast Day Trips , Vatican Tours and Tuscany Day Trips .

Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

We’ve chosen these top Colosseum tours because they offer a wide range of experiences and will fit into everyone’s budget.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Roman Colosseum Tours For 2024

• Ancient Rome: Colosseum and Roman Forum Private Tour
• Rome Colosseum by Night with Underground & Arena Floor Tour
• Skip the Line Colosseum Tour for Kids and families
• Rome Skip-the-Line Colosseum & Arena Floor Guided tour
• Skip-the-Line: Colosseum & Ancient Rome Walking Tour
• Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour
• Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena and Forum

Colosseum Tour Reviews

1. best colosseum private tour: ancient rome: colosseum and roman forum private tour.

• Departure Point : Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome
• Departure Time : Between 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Duration : 3 hours
• Includes : Skip-the-line access to Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, licensed tour guide

As the largest amphitheater in the world, the aptly-named Colosseum is certainly an impressive and unavoidable marvel located in the center of Rome.

Ancient Rome is fascinating not only for history buffs, but pretty much anyone who’s ever heard of gladiators or the iconic metropolis.

The Ancient Rome: Colosseum and Roman Forum Private Tour is one of the best ways to see the legendary structure, avoiding the crowds and stepping into an exclusive experience like no other.

One of the things that always makes me a bit nervous about visiting a major tourist attraction, are the massive lines that usually come with them.

Thanks to the skip-the-line access, as soon as we arrived to the Colosseum, we got to literally head right inside with our guide.

It turns out that our guide is actually an expert in Ancient Roman history, which we got to benefit from as he told us all kinds of interesting stories and background surrounding it!

With a maximum of 6 group participants, we were able to ask any questions, and move around much easier throughout the Colosseum. We got to see the site of the Forum, which was essentially the birthplace of Rome and where the center of everything was located.

I loved seeing the remains of the temples, and other interesting structures that I didn’t know anything about!

To make it even better, our guide took us to Palatine Hill which was incredible! It offers breathtaking views of the city (particularly Circus Maximus), along with plenty of well-preserved traces of opulent palaces that the upper Roman class used to inhabit.

All in all, this tour makes for a fantastic way to take in some of the most important sites in Rome without having to run around in a massive crowd!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best night colosseum tour: rome colosseum by night with underground & arena floor tour.

• Departure Point : Via del Colosseo 24
• Departure Time : 7:00 or 8:00 PM
• Duration : 2 hours
• Includes : Special nighttime access to the Colosseum, underground access, arena floor access, headsets

Exploring Rome is almost like walking through a museum, except for the fact that it’s a living, breathing city full of stories and history.

One of the coolest places to visit within Rome is undoubtedly the colosseum – even more so at night with exclusive access to areas most people don’t get to see!

Even if you’ve already seen the famous landmark before, I guarantee the Rome Colosseum by Night with Underground & Arena Floor Tour will offer a much different perspective for you!

This unique and intimate encounter with ancient Rome let us explore underground chambers and the arena floor (amongst other places) free from the usual daytime crowds.

Of course, we also enjoyed access to the main areas that you’ll get to see on any tour, but this tour led by a professional archaeologist offered more insight than I’d ever had before.

Plus, being able to see the Colosseum at night alone, was worth it – it emits a much different vibe and took photos like no others I previously had!

The tour started out on the exterior of the Colosseum, with our guide leading us around the entire building while teaching us about the structure itself, as well as the surrounding area.

I am already into architecture, but all of our private group was captivated by the interesting facts about how it was built, and how earthquakes deeply affected it.

After that, we headed inside, with lighting that really made it feel like we had headed back in time when it was in use during the days of the gladiators.

Venturing through the labyrinth of tunnels, we got to see where they kept the wild animals, as well as what’s left of cages, elevators, and even gladiator rooms.

Perhaps the most striking feature was the “Gate of Death”, along with the stories that made us see the gladiators more as humans as opposed to just warriors. Please do yourself a favor and don’t miss out on the best Colosseum night tour!

Search For Other Top Rated Rome Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best colosseum family tour: skip the line colosseum tour for kids and families.

• Departure Point : Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM
• Departure Time : 1:00 PM
• Includes : Private guided tour with Priority access, professional archaeologist and historian guide

I know a lot of people who avoid going to big “tourist” hotspots like Rome, because they’re worried if it’s going to be possible with kids. While I can’t say that it’s not stressful at all with big crowds, it’s more about selecting the right tours that cater specifically towards families with children.

If you’re looking for something like that, I have the best one for you: the Skip the Line Colosseum Tour for Kids and Families !

This is a slightly shorter tour than the others on this guide, which is actually designed to make sure no small kids get tired or sick of walking around. After we arrived to the Colosseum, we didn’t have to worry about waiting in massive queues with kids thanks to the skip-the-line tickets.

We headed right inside with our tour guide, who was also really great with little ones and keeping them entertained.

They did a great job at taking some pretty serious material like gladiators fighting potentially to the death, and formatted things in a way that were appropriate for people of all ages.

The kids in our group were absolutely fascinated with the fact that they had lions and bears in the tunnels below, along with the visual aids and interactive activities.

It was one of the more “fun” tours of its kind, and even though it was tailored more towards kids, all of us adults really loved it, too!

I would personally recommend on taking the tour a bit later in the afternoon (around 4 or 5), as it’s significantly less hot and the crowds are lighter.

I appreciated that our guide let us stop for photos throughout, making it easy to get some mementos to take home with us. If you have any kids in your group, don’t pass this one up!

4. Best Colosseum Budget Tour: Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

• Departure Point : Colosseo Metro Station, Line B Exit
• Departure Time : 10:40 AM, 1:20 PM
• Duration : 1 hour, 30 minutes (approx.)
• Includes : Small group tour with local guide, skip-the-line access, access to normally off-limits areas of the Colosseum

If it’s your first time in Rome, it can be intimidating trying to figure out what is worth seeing and what you may have to skip. There are so many things to see in this city, literally where every corner seems to have something interesting to offer.

With the Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, you get a taste of everything in a well-organized experience easy to fit into even the busiest of schedules.

This tour clocks in at around 2.5 hours and there are tons of different tour start times available so you don’t have to worry about it not working with the rest of your itinerary.

It also comes in many different languages, though I can attest that our guide spoke excellent English. Ours managed to keep our entire group entertained while still sharing valuable and interesting stories along the way.

While we didn’t have a skip-the-line or fast pass entrance, we did get to go through a dedicated group entrance which really helped move us inside quickly.

We got to see the monument from beautiful vantage points while our guide regaled us with tales of gladiators and drama-loving spectators. I also appreciated that they took us to the best spots for photos with plenty of stops along the way.

After that, we headed to Palatine Hill, which offers some of the best views of the Roman Forum – particularly of Circus Maximus.

This is a fantastic way to gain insight into ancient Roman culture and how their society operated back then. Don’t pass this opportunity up if your stay in Rome is a brief one!

5. Best Colosseum Guided Tour: Rome Colosseum with Access to the Gladiator Arena

• Departure Time : 9:30 AM, 2:30 PM
• Duration : 3 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Expert tour guide, headsets, skip-the-line privileged access to the Colosseum and gladiator arena

If you’re looking for an even more brief tour experience, look no further than the Rome Colosseum with Access to the Gladiator Arena tour! It’s just 1.5 hours but packs in a ton of information and sightseeing with an expert guide who will share more than the cookie-cutter facts.

If you’d like to delve deep into the history of these brave fighters, this immersive experience is a can’t-miss!

Imagine following in the footsteps of gladiators, while learning about the different games that happened right on this floor! As we entered the Colosseum, our expert guide took us through each section while giving us an equally entertaining and educational narrative.

The spectator stands and archways were incredible, and it was hard wrapping my mind around all of the wild animal hunts and dramatic enactments that took place here.

However, undoubtedly the centerpiece of the tour is the rare privilege of being able to actually step foot onto the arena floor. It’s crazy to think of how many humans and wild animals had to fight to survive (or for glory) right where we stood – almost as if the moment was frozen in time.

It’s definitely an experience that offers broader understanding and insight, rather than just a “Cool! Gladiators with swords fighting lions!” type of tour.

Beyond the arena, we were able to check out and learn the history behind the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, offering a more “complete” journey through Rome’s ancient splendor.

I really appreciated our guide’s focus on authenticity and education, and for that, I say it’s a must-see for any history buff! If you want the chance to stand on the threshold of antiquity and learn about Rome’s cultural heritage like never before, check this tour out!

6. Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour MAX 6 People Guaranteed

• Duration : 3.25 hours
• Departure : Piazza del Colosseo, 21, 00184 Rome
• Departure Time : 9:15 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:30 PM
• Includes : Small group size, head to underground and Colosseum arena, local expert guide, skip the line entry

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or it’s your first time in the city, you simply have to consider this next tour. The Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour will show you hidden secrets that lie beneath the surface of one of the most easily-identifiable, legendary structures in all of history.

Follow in the footsteps of everyone from gladiators to kings on this captivating tour with an expert guide to lead the way.

With incredible attention to detail and organization, our guide was able to practically transform time. In the time it could easily take to stand in line to see the Colosseum alone, we say the circular structure, along with Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum ruins.

With small group tours maxing out at just 6 people, it was an intimate experience with personalized attention that elevated this tour heads above almost all the rest.

Once we met up at the Colosseum Metro Station, we skipped past the line and headed straight into the depths of the famous landmark. The subterranean chambers are a labyrinth where wild animals and gladiators awaited their fates, and our guide regaled us with many emotional tales of some of the events that happened here.

Then, we headed up to the arena level where we actually got to head straight onto the original floor which most visitors don’t get the chance to do.

After the Colosseum, we traversed the cobbled streets of Ancient Rome, arriving at the Roman Forum where time seems suspended in the remnants of temples and government buildings. We then continued up to Palatine Hill, which is known as one of the Seven Hills of Rome and known for being the most opulent place to live, where the wealthiest Romans resided.

7. Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena and Forum

• Departure Time : Varies
• Includes : Fast track entrance tickets and reservation fees, guided tour of Underground and Arena of Colosseum, guided tour of Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, live expert guide, earphones, on-site assistance, night tour option available at Colosseum

If you’re traveling on a budget but still want to appreciate one of those “biggest bang for your buck” tours, look no further. The Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena and Forum is a 3-hour experience which completely transformed the knowledge of Rome I thought I had. It’s a fully-customizable, profound excursion that will take you to some of the most legendary sights in Rome.

Before I get started, I do want to mention that we had the option to book a private tour for a slightly higher fee, which I do feel is worth it. We met up with our guide at the Colosseum, where we decided to take the night tour option which is not commonly offered.

This means less crowds, and a more intimate experience that I feel lends more of an authentic vibe to the tour. We learned all about countless stories of emperors, senators, goddesses, gladiators, and so much more as we toured around.

We even got to step on the Arena floor and head down into the Underground section: two areas that most visitors don’t even get to touch.  We then headed to the ground level, where we learned all about the revolutionary construction techniques that had never been seen before this.

We had some free time to explore before taking a little break and heading to the archaeological area of the Roman Forums and Palatine Hill. Here, we were able to take another 1-hour guided tour which was actually perhaps my favorite part!

The ancient temple ruins and stories to accompany the sites were so fascinating, and lent valuable insight into religion and Ancient Rome’s penal system.

Palatine Hill looks quite different now, though the breathtaking views I’m sure were equally as impressive as they were when Rome’s wealthiest took up residence here!

FAQs About Colosseum Tours in Rome

In TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards 2020, Rome was ranked as the #3 Top Destination in the World. If you want to get the most out of your trip to Rome, it’s important to see the Colosseum. It is an iconic structure of ancient Rome and is a symbol of the culture of Rome as well. Visit the Colosseum and surrounding ancient buildings with a guided Colosseum tour.

What will I see in the Colosseum?

There are three levels in the Colosseum. The arena floor, the underground along with the third level can only be accessed with special tickets or guided tours.

• The first level is the arena floor, you can walk around and see the underground rooms and hallways where gladiators and animals were kept. Some parts of the arena area have been restored to give a better sense of what it was like in ancient times.
• The second level is where most of the spectators watched the events. Spectators were separated by social class and gender. Here you can check out the architecture and engineering of the Colosseum. There are some panoramic views of Rome as well.
• The third level is where the lower classes and women were seated. This level was finally reopened in 2017 after being closed for 40 years.

What is the best time to see the Roman Colosseum?

You should know the peak season (July and August), the weekends, and the public holidays, are the most crowded and expensive time to go. If you want to enjoy a more peaceful and cooler atmosphere, opt for the early morning or late afternoon tours, when the light is also more beautiful.

How long does a Colosseum tour last?

Most Colosseum tours are 1 to 3 hours. You can take tours that include access to the arena floor, the underground chambers and the upper levels. These tours are longer and more in-depth, but also more expensive and require advance booking.

What should I wear and bring to a Colosseum tour?

The Colosseum is mostly outdoors so you should dress according to the weather. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs. Bring your ID or passport.

Is it better to take a guided tour of the Colosseum?

A tour guide can bring the history of the Colosseum alive. You will have a professional and knowledgeable guide who will tell you stories and facts that you won’t find in any guidebook. You will also have priority access to skip the long lines at the entrance and save time. You will have the opportunity to ask questions of you guide.

What is the best Colosseum tour?

If you can afford to spend a bit more for a more personal experience we recommend the Ancient Rome: Colosseum and Roman Forum Private Tour . This is a private tour so it’s only your group on the tour so you get the full attention of the guide and able to ask as many questions as you like.

What is the cheapest tour of the Colosseum in Rome?

If you are on a strict budget and still want to have a guided tour of the Colosseum we recommend the Rome Skip-the-Line Colosseum & Arena Floor Guided tour . Even at a bargain price you still get to see all the sites with a guide to answer questions.

Planning Tips for a trip to Rome

Before you start packing your bags, you’ll want to know how to make your trip easier and how to get the most out of your time in Rome. These top 5 planning tips can help you do just that.

Even standing outside the monstrous architectural wonder that is the Colosseum, it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed at the technology and hard work necessary to build it. When visiting it, you will want to make sure you get the most out of the opportunity.

Tip #1: Wear Comfortable Shoes

It might be safe to say that you will want to wear comfortable shoes when touring many areas of Rome. However, there is no place in the city that requires comfortable walking shoes (can you link to a buying guide for shoes to this guide?) than the Colosseum.

This is a very large structure and many tours will take you up into the stands, onto the arena floor, or even into the underground tunnels and rooms where gladiators prepared for battle. With so much to see, you may spend hours here, and most of it spent walking.

Your best bet is to bring a comfortable pair of shoes from home, so you know they won’t hurt your feet with constant walking.

Tip #2: Take a Tour of the Colosseum

When standing in line to purchase a general admission ticket to the Colosseum, you may be waiting for quite a while. Plus, the general admission price doesn’t include priority access or access to other areas of the Colosseum.

When you purchase a ticket for a guided tour of the Colosseum, you will usually also receive skip-the-line access. This means that you will enter the Colosseum with your guide without having to stand in line. Many of these tours also offer access to areas of the structure that most people aren’t able to see.

One of the best reasons to invest in a tour of the Colosseum is that your guide will also be able to explain the different areas of the structure that you visit. Learning not just the history but also the time-true stories and legends can make your trip to the Colosseum a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tip #3: Arrive Early, Stay Late

The Colosseum opens for visitors at 8:30 AM. Many guided tours will start between 8 and 9:30 AM. Those that start before the day’s official opening can provide a wonderful experience, seeing the Colosseum and its marvels without crowds.

If you are also going to be visiting the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, be sure to stay in the area until after sunset. Seeing the Colosseum lit up at night is a view not to be missed.

Tip #4: The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Even many of the general admissions tickets to the Colosseum will provide access, or a discounted rate, for entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill as well. With a guided tour, you can also see all three locations. This is a great way to spend a day and you will be able to experience some of the most popular attractions in Rome all in one day.

Tip #5: Choose Nearby Accommodations

If the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill are on your list of must-visit attractions in Rome, you may want to choose accommodations that are close by. Not only does this make it easier for you to visit these places, but it is also a wonderful area of Rome to stay. Transportation is conveniently located nearby and many tours of other areas of the city have pickup locations in this area as well.

Other Attractions in Rome

Rome is full of attractions you can visit around your tour of the Colosseum. The National Roman Museum is family-friendly and houses many interesting artifacts. The Basilica of San Clemente is not just a church, but also an archaeological site.

The newer building at the entry level dates back to the 12 th -century while you can head downstairs to the original basilica built in the 4 th -century AD.

If you’d like to see some of the more ancient attractions around Rome, you have several options. The Roman Forum is the location where Romulus made the founding of the city of Rome official. It was once the epicenter of Roman life.

Ostia Antica is just 25-minutes away by train. This location was once a thriving center of commerce. Today, you can explore over 100 acres of ancient shops, baths, temples, and even apartment buildings and houses.

If you have some extra time, a visit to the Tuscany region should not be missed. With beautiful hilltop towns and wineries you should take a day trip to Tuscany . If might be the highlight of your trip!

If you would like to see more of the Italian coast, a day trip to the Amalfi Coast or Capri should not be missed!

Tour Guides

The Colosseum Underground and Arena Tour w/ Roman Forum is our Editor's Choice with its combination of sites seen, tours guides and value.

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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10 Best Colosseum Tours You Should Take In 2024

If you’re looking for the best Colosseum tours you’ve come to the right place as I’m a full-time traveller and I’ve taken multiple tours of the Colosseum when visiting Rome.

I know how important having the right tour and the right guide is to make the most of the situation. It’s not every day you get to tour one of the Wonders of the World!

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of tour options for the Colosseum, so it can be hard to find the best ones. Luckily for you, I have compiled a list of the 10 best tours so all you need to do is choose which one suits you the most.

This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps me to keep my site up and running! Read my disclaimer for more information.

🏆 EDITOR’S PICK: Best Colosseum Tour = Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill with thousands of 5-star reviews.

Ready to explore the best options and book your tour? Let’s get straight into it!

Josh’s Top 3 Picks: Best Colosseum Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill ✔️ 7400+ 5 star reviews ✔️ Skip the line tickets ✔️ Max group size of 16

VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill ✔️ 5400+ 5 star reviews ✔️ Visit the Underground ✔️ Skip the line tickets

Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor ✔️4800+ 5 star reviews ✔️ VIP Arena Floor Access ✔️ Walk through Gladiator’s Gate

Best Colosseum Tours

A trip to Rome would not be complete without taking a tour of the Colosseum. But no one wants to experience one of the wonders of the world with a below-par tour, that’s why I have ensured that all of these tours are the best of the best , and you’re guaranteed a great time on each of them.

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

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (7400+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 16 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

The Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill tour is the highest-rated tour of the Colosseum with over 7400 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐reviews! Yes, more than 7000 reviews- wow!

• Highest-rated tour with more than 7400 5-star reviews
• Skip the line tickets
• Maximum group size of 16
• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tour included
• Walks Tours is my favourite tour company worldwide
• Free cancellation
• Infants under 2 are free (discounted price for up 2-14 year olds)
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments
• Not suitable for strollers
• Slightly more expensive option (worth it in my opinion)

Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill is my favourite tour on this list. I have found it to have the guides with the best personality, best facts, and best timings.

You will notice that the tour also includes a tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. This is because entry is included to the Roman Forum with Colosseum tickets, so most tours will also include a tour of the Roman Forum. Even better value for money!

Having a maximum number of 16 also means that your tour group will be relatively small , as most tours allow up to 25ish people, so you will have a much more personal experience. Although, the most personal experience comes from a private tour of the Colosseum .

I have personally taken lots of tours all over the world with Walks, the tour operators in this case, and had incredible experiences. The guides are always very knowledgeable, and the overall tour experience is always top quality. I can’t recommend it enough.

This tour also allows you to skip the queues outside the Colosseum , as you are part of a tour group, you get to simply bypass the (usually long) queue!

If you are in search of the best Colosseum tour, Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill is the option for you. There’s a reason it’s so highly rated by over 7000 people: it’s the best tour there is. And I can personally vouch for its quality.

2. VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (5400+ reviews )| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 24 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Another Colosseum tour option is VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill which is also extremely highly rated, with over 5400 reviews . I told you, Walks are the best!

• Access to the Colosseum Underground
• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tour also included
• Free cancellation until 7 days before
• Larger group (max 24)
• No set start times (your time will be confirmed 30 days prior to your tour)
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or strollers
• One of the more expensive options (because of the exclusive access)
• Required to bring your ID with you (because of the exclusive access)
• Not refundable within 7 days of the tour

As the name suggests, VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill offers a tour of the underground of the Colosseum, which is not included in most other tours. The underground definitely offers a unique perspective of the ancient amphitheatre.

It is one of the most exclusive experiences you can have in the Colosseum . By touring the tunnels of the underground, you are seeing parts of the Colosseum that most visitors skip.

Of course, you also tour the general access areas of the Colosseum. But if you ask me, it always feels better to visit the more exclusive areas.

I got goosebumps visiting the underground and looking at all of the mechanisms and how they used to control the arena floor.

This tour is a very in-demand tour and often sells out, so make sure to book it well in advance of your trip to Rome. You’ll notice it also includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill and also includes skip-the-line tickets.

It’s also with Walks who as I said in the last tour, I highly recommend to anyone- they’re tried and trusted and are guaranteed to provide a great tour.

Once again, VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill is extremely highly rated, with over 5400 5-star reviews.

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

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (4800+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 16 |🏛️ BOOK NOW

Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor is a truly special tour of the Colosseum. You get to enter the Colosseum through the Gladiator’s Gate- I won’t lie, I felt like a proper gladiator walking in!

• Access to the Colosseum Arena Floor
• Enter through the famous Gladiator Gate
• Max group size 16

Entering the Colosseum through a different entrance is pretty cool, especially since you enter the arena floor of the Colosseum in the same way Roman Gladiators did 2000 years ago.

This tour also includes access to the Arena Floor , which is not included in most tour options. Seeing the Colosseum from the arena floor is a completely unique experience from walking around the different levels.

You see the Colosseum from the perspective of the gladiators, looking up into the crowd. It is special indeed and was another moment which gave me goosebumps touring the Colosseum.

Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor also visits the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, with skip-the-line entrance tickets included too.

After entering the Colosseum’s arena floor, you also go up into the stands and experience a “standard” Colosseum tour. It’s good to see the Colosseum from all the different perspectives so you can get a feel of how significant the amphitheatre was for all the different types of people in Ancient Rome.

Of course, any tour which offers such a unique experience sells out in advance , so make sure to book your Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor early. With over 4600 positive reviews, you’re guaranteed to have the tour of a lifetime.

4. VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor

⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5 Stars (2100+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2.75 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 24 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor holds a special place in my heart because when I first visited Rome, when I saw the Colosseum for the first time, it was nighttime. So anything which involves the Colosseum at night, I’m a big fan.

Once again, the tour is with Walks. I really do love their Rome tours , and I even took their Rome in a Day tour which includes a Colosseum Tour and a tour of the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums on the same day, along with the Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and more!

• See the Colosseum at night
• Fewer crowds

The Colosseum during the day is beautiful but the Colosseum at night is a magical experience. In my opinion, the Colosseum is even more stunning when it’s lit up at night.

The lights create a yellow/orange glow effect which is a thing of beauty! Seeing the Colosseum at night is beautiful as it is, so imagine taking a tour of the Colosseum at night, wow!

A huge bonus of visiting the Colosseum during a night tour is the lack of crowds . It’s so much quieter. It’s somewhat eery in a way, but that only adds to the tour in my opinion.

There are only a handful of people inside the Colosseum during night tours, you get a much more surreal experience, seeing the Colosseum “empty” as opposed to extremely crowded during the day.

This tour of the Colosseum also encompasses all of the 3 previous tours into one. It includes a standard Colosseum tour, both exterior and interior, as well as the underground and the arena floor! It has everything!

Combine this with the lack of crowds and the beauty of the Colosseum at night, and you can understand why the VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor holds a special place in my heart.

As the review above says, this tour is “unbelievable”. It’s by far the best Colosseum night tour and it will truly make your trip to Rome.

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

⭐ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (14,500+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

The most popular Colosseum tour on GetYourGuide is the Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill tour. With over 14,000 reviews averaging at 4.7/5 stars, you know this tour is one of the best! Having over 14,000 reviews is pretty mind-blowing, to be honest!

• Skip the line access
• Guided tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
• Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a 50% refund
• Available in 5 languages
• Headsets included when the group is large
• Often overruns its time (up to as long as 3.5 hours)
• Not suitable for wheelchair users

The expert guides on Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill have a reputation for being witty and funny, so if you are interested in getting a tour of the Colosseum along with a bit of comedy, this is the tour for you.

Of course, it is very good for a tour in general, aside from the personality factor. Their facts and storytelling is great. But who doesn’t love a joke thrown in there every now and again?

My favourite was “What did the Roman say when his wife was eaten by a lion?”, “Gladiator”. *ba dum tss* Okay, I’ll see myself out. But if you have kids, the jokes help to make it a family-friendly tour, but all of these tours are family-friendly too.

Back to the tour, included are skip-the-line tickets to all 3 of the attractions mentioned throughout this article (Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill) along with free cancellation until 24 hours before, which is always a good perk.

Most of the tours offered in this list are also available in multiple languages. This tour, for example, is available in English, Italian, Spanish, German and French.

At less than €40 each, Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill is definitely an affordable but great tour of the Colosseum!

6. VIP Small Group Colosseum and Ancient City Tour

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (600+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 15 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

The VIP Colosseum Tour is another great option for getting a tour of the Colosseum alongside fast-track tickets, meaning you skip the queue waiting to get in. Around 7 million people visit the Colosseum each year , so you can imagine how big the queues can get!

• Stroller accessible
• Accessible by Public Transport
• Non-refundable
• Not suitable for wheelchairs

This tour is booked through Viator which is a very reliable website and a great company to book activities and things to do through- you’ve likely booked a tour with them before.

The VIP Colosseum Tour is a perfect example, it’s rated 5 stars out of 5 with overwhelmingly positive reviews such as the one above.

A benefit of booking a tour of the Colosseum, aside from the facts and insight provided by your guide, is the ability to get photos taken by other tour members .

Whether you are a family, couple, or solo traveller, tours are a great way to get pictures in return for taking pictures of someone else.

As a travel blogger, I need lots of photos to use on my site, so I probably annoyed everyone in my group by asking for photos at every opportunity. But still- it’s great to get pictures, right?

Plus, as a small group tour, it’s much more personal and the guide feels part of the group, rather than someone speaking to the group. Taking a walking tour with like 30 people is never fun in my opinion.

VIP Colosseum Tour is another great option and definitely one of the best Colosseum tours out there.

7. Fast Track Colosseum with Arena Floor VIP Guided Tour

⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 Stars (7800+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Taking a tour of the Colosseum is one of the best things to do in all of Italy, and the Fast Track Colosseum with Arena Floor VIP Guided Tour is another of the highest-rated tours, with 7800 plus positive reviews.

• Lots of different starting time options throughout the day
• The tour ends in the Roman Forum and you can stay as long as you want

In my opinion, it’s always a good idea to choose a tour with high ratings . You don’t want to try a less popular tour and have a negative experience; go with what people have tried and what people have enjoyed!

And this test has more than passed the test of time, and it’s another I can personally vouch for. Seeing the Colosseum from the Arena Floor will never get old, as I said earlier, it’s a great place to visualise and imagine yourself as a Roman Gladiator.

It’s excellent value for money and on top of your access to the Colosseum, the tour has some of the best guides in all of Rome! And for a tour of the best out of all of the monuments and landmarks in the Eternal City, you want the best guides, right?

By the way, make sure you bring your ID with you to your tour of the Colosseum – sometimes you are required to verify your identity. But from my experience, I’ve never seen anyone’s ID checked. You do, however, have to go through airport-style security with a metal detector and scanning machine.

If you want to see the Colosseum along with the arena floor, Fast Track Colosseum with Arena Floor VIP Guided Tour is a tour not to be missed!

8. Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome

⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5 Stars (2600+) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Another great option for touring the restricted parts of the Colosseum is the Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome tour. It also includes access to the tunnels of the underground of the Colosseum, along with the arena floor.

• Exclusive access to the Underground AND Arena Floor
• Entry via Gladiator’s Gate
• Baby strollers not allowed
• Meeting time is subject to change

It’s worth noting that most of the tours on this list include the option of wearing a headset (in larger groups) in order to hear your guide more clearly, this can be very useful, especially on busy days when there are lots of tours going on at once throughout the Colosseum.

If you don’t like wearing headphones, I’d recommend booking the first tour on my list, as it’s a smaller group so the guide is able to be heard by everyone without having to shout or speak into a microphone. Sometimes a huge group can ruin a tour, but this isn’t the case for Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome thankfully.

Again, this tour also includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, despite not having it in the name of the tour. All tickets to the Colosseum include entry to the Roman Forum- so if you decide not to go with a tour and to simply book tickets, then you still get entry to the Forum.

Seeing the underground and arena floor of the Colosseum are very unique experiences, and to be able to do both of them is an opportunity not to be missed! I’d really encourage you to spend the extra bit of money to tour the exclusive areas – it’s worth it, I promise you.

Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome is also super highly rated with more than 2500+ reviews. If my word isn’t enough, the reviews speak for themself.

9. Private Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (540+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Only your group | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Have you considered taking a private tour of the Colosseum? Private tours offer a completely unique and personalised experience to touring the Colosseum. I took a private tour of the Colosseum once and I would recommend it to anyone!

• Private guide
• Guided tours of the Colosseum & Roman Forum
• Hotel pickup included
• Luxury option available (including Arena Floor)
• Wheelchair accessible
• Expensive price

Private Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour is one of the best options too. It’s thoroughly enjoyable, provides a great tour and has so many more perks than a group tour. Here are some benefits you get by taking this tour:

• Hotel pickup – get picked up directly from where you are staying!
• Choose between a morning and afternoon tour
• 7 different language options
• Cancel until the day before
• One guide all to yourself! – my favourite reason to take a private tour
• Ask unlimited questions and choose how much time to spend at each stop

You can even upgrade to a luxury option which includes hotel drop-off after the tour, plus access to the Colosseum’s arena floor!

In my opinion, having a private guide is a million times better than a group tour . The ability to essentially have a personal Google about the Colosseum while walking around is extraordinary.

You can ask any questions you may have, choose how long to spend at each stop along the tour and essentially experience the Colosseum the way you want to experience it.

As a history-lover, I definitely asked way too many questions- oops! But did you know at least 400,000 people died in the Colosseum ? Ancient Roman history never fails to catch my attention.

Not to mention that you can go at your own pace, choosing how much time to spend in each part of the Colosseum.

Private Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour is by far the best private tour of the Colosseum too- if you are considering taking a private tour, this is the one to take!

10. Colosseum Guided Tour

⭐ RATING: 4 out of 5 Stars | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour |🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 25 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

The last tour on the list, but by no means the least, is the Colosseum Guided Tour and it may be the choice for you if you are only interested in touring the Colosseum . It only lasts an hour and skips the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

• Short tour if you are limited by time
• Skip the line entry
• Entry to Palatine Hill & Roman Forum included with your ticket
• Doesn’t include the Roman Forum or Palatine Hill as part of the tour
• Requires a minimum number of travellers (refunded if it’s not met)

Once again, the guides are known for having personality and good fun with the tour group. As well as providing an excellent tour of the most popular attraction in Rome.

This is what I would call a “basic” tour. It gives what it says it gives, nothing more and nothing less.

It might be a great option if you’re short on time too. As it only lasts one hour.

Although it does not include a guided tour of the Roman Forum, entry is included in your ticket and you can access the Forum for “free”. You still have general admission to the Forum.

If you want a tour only of the Colosseum and nothing more, Colosseum Guided Tour is the option for you.

Below are some questions related to the best tours of the Colosseum along with my answers to each question.

The best tour of the Colosseum is the Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill . It has over 6000 5-star reviews, it’s by far the highest-rated tour of the Colosseum. It also includes a tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill!

A guided tour of the Colosseum is undoubtedly worth it. Having a guide allows you to learn about the history of the Colosseum, and ultimately, understand what you are actually looking at. The Colosseum is complex! You need a guide to show you around and ensure you have a good experience.

Yes! You can enter the Colosseum as part of a tour. The best tour of the Colosseum is the Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill which has over 6000 5-star reviews. It’s the best way to see the Colosseum.

Yes, you can visit the Colosseum without a tour. As long as you have a valid ticket for entry, you can go inside the Colosseum. However, taking a tour is more than worth it. The prices aren’t too much more, allow you to skip the queues, and of course, included an excellent guided tour.

Any tour of the Colosseum is worth doing, but seeing the underground and the tunnels of the Colosseum is a completely unique experience. Normally closed off to the public, being in a tour group which visits the underground section is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s incredible!

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, 10 of the best Colosseum tours to take during a trip to Rome.

Remember, the best tour to take is the Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill .

Nonetheless, whichever of these 10 tours you choose to take, you are guaranteed to have an excellent guide around the Colosseum. Spending time in Rome cannot be spent without taking a tour of one of the world’s seven wonders.

Whether you are spending  one day in Rome , 2, 3 or  4 days in Rome  or more, you  need  to fit in a tour of the Colosseum. It’s a must-do, and it would be a sin to leave Rome without taking a tour.

I hope you have a spectacular tour- the Colosseum provides memories that will last forever , and your tour can either make or break those memories. So make sure you book one of the best tours of the Colosseum!

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

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Ultimate Colosseum Semi-Private Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Experience the ancient world come alive on our ultimate Colosseum tour, including the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Price 99 €

(253 Reviews)

• tour overview
• tour description
• tour reviews

starting time 9:15

duration 3 hours

group size Max. 10

Tour Overview

Get the ultimate Colosseum experience on our in-depth tour of ancient Rome's most famous landmark, where gladiators fought to the death before ecstatic crowds and exotic animals were butchered in the name of entertainment. Feel the amphitheater come alive as our expert guide gives you the lowdown on the gladiators, and immerse yourself in antiquity's most gripping and bloodiest theatre. On our Ultimate Colosseum tour, we’ll also explore the nearby Palatine Hill, where ancient emperors spent their days in palaces of unimaginable luxury, as well as the spectacular Roman Forum. Here in the beating heart of the ancient city, we’ll walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest figures in history. Join our Ultimate Colosseum tour today and see the ancient world at its best! *** All participants 18 and over must book as adults, there is no older student discount available for this itinerary, and due to new regulations for Colosseum tickets, all participants must provide full names immediately upon booking ***

• In-depth Colosseum tour
• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Skip the line ticket
• Expert, fluent English-speaking guide
• Headsets for groups of six or more

• Interior of the Colosseum
• The Arch of Constantine
• The Via Sacra
• Temples of Saturn, Castor and Pollux
• The Flavian Palace

• The House of the Vestal Virgins
• The Farnese Gardens
• Arches of Septimius Severus and Titus
• The Basilica of Maxentius

Tour Description

Discover ancient rome on a small group tour .

A walking tour of Rome is the perfect introduction to the city, covering the most important archaeological sites. You’ll discover the truth behind the legends of the gladiators and the arena on your Colosseum tour , and gain new insight into this magnificent monument. Continuing on your Roman Forum tour, as you stroll through the atmospheric ruins, your expert guide will help you to understand the politics and power plays that animated the ancient city. Then there’s the peaceful Palatine Hill, where the history of Rome began with Romulus and Remus. You'll visit the impressive remains of the imperial palaces and admire the stunning views of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum from the top of the hill.

With an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide to lead the way, you’ll end your in-depth tour of the Flavian Amphitheater, Forum and Palatine Hill with a much greater understanding and appreciation of Rome - a city that continues to amaze its visitors nearly three thousand years later.

Our groups are small, with a maximum of 10 people, and we buy all our tickets in advance so you can skip the lines and spend more time exploring Rome, rather than waiting around.

Learn about the bloody spectacles of the ancient games 

The ancient Colosseum is undoubtedly the most amazing monument in Rome, built on a vast scale in less than ten years. The spectacles that took place here were like nothing seen before or since, and they were designed to entertain not only the people of Rome, but also the emperor himself.

The gladiatorial games are legendary, and on your tour of the Colosseum you’ll learn the difference between fact and fiction. But you’ll also discover that truth is often stranger than fiction, as you hear stories of wild animal hunts, mass executions, naval battles, and violent re-enactments of Greek myths that all took place in the arena. You’ll learn about everything that went on behind the scenes, including the amazing machinery that made the spectacles possible and so popular. For the rare opportunity to descend into the Colosseum’s Underground to see these machines and mechanisms up close, check out our Colosseum Underground Tour . 

There was more to the games than meets the eye, and the entertainment at the Colosseum also had an important political role. Your expert guide will help you to understand the Colosseum in context, explaining what the games meant not only for the slaves and gladiators who took part, but for the whole of ancient Rome.

Explore the heart of ancient Rome in the Roman Forum

A Roman Forum group tour is an opportunity to learn about Roman history in the very place where the events took place.

These atmospheric ruins were once the political heart of the ancient city. You begin in front of the Senate, the imposing building used for the meetings and heated debates of the Republic. In the gardens and the House of the Vestal Virgins you’ll learn about the extraordinary lives and deaths of the priestesses who were tasked with ensuring Rome's sacred flame remained forever lit. We'll also visit the basilica of Julia and the basilica of Maxentius, the most important courthouses of the ancient city. The famous public trials that took place in these basilicas contributed to the fame of great historical figures such as Cicero and Caesar, whose orations were highly praised by their contemporaries.

Your walk through the Forum continues with a visit to the temples, as you explore the impressive ruins of the temples of Saturn and Castor and Pollux. Here you’ll learn about the Roman gods and the early days of Christianity, which often overlapped in unexpected ways - as you’ll see at the temple of Antoninus and Faustina, an ancient Roman temple that was transformed into a Catholic church. On your group tour of Rome you’ll also walk along one of the most important Roman roads of all, the Via Sacra, where you can still see the wheel-ruts of the carriages that passed over its flagstones for centuries.

The triumphal arches are another highlight of our visit to Ancient Rome, and you’ll be amazed by the Arch of Titus and the Arch of Septimius Severus, which dramatically represent the conquests of the Roman Empire.

See the palaces of the emperors on our Palatine Hill tour

Often overlooked by other tour companies, the Palatine Hill is one of the most beautiful parts of the ancient city. It’s also the oldes: according to legend, this was the place where the young and abandoned Romulus and Remulus were discovered by a she-wolf, and where Romulus eventually founded the city of Rome.

For centuries it was the most desirable part of Rome, as the lush hill offers stunning views of the city. The villas of the Roman aristocracy were later replaced by the enormous, luxurious villas of the emperors. On your Palatine tour you’ll explore the vast Flavian Palace, the Baths of Septimius Severus, and the Stadium of Domitian. These ruins are impressive in their own right, with their colonnades and mosaics, but hearing about the excesses the emperors indulged in here will give you a whole new perspective!

The Palatine Hill is also the perfect place to escape the heat of the city. Take a relaxing stroll in the shady Farnese Gardens of Pope Paul III, where you’ll learn about Renaissance Rome and enjoy an unparalleled view of ancient Rome - this is sure to be one of the most memorable parts of your experience.

meeting point

Tour Reviews

5.0 (253 reviews)

Frank was a fabulous guide. His knowledge, experience and psssion was shared with the group. He was careful of us as it was very hot and was mindful to keep us in the shade as much as possible. Great tour!

Renee - Aug 26, 2023

Our Italian-American guide was the best of the best. She was very knowledgeable and very enthusiastic about her job! She as also very patient with me and my semi-limited mobility. She provided an alternate to me visiting one of the sites and provided me with elevator access in the Coliseum. That way I could appreciate the full extent of the tour without affecting other tour members' experience! Would definitely recommend Through Eternity tours to anyone visiting Rome!

Timothy - Nov 18, 2022

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Rome Colosseum

THE BEST COLOSSEUM TOURS 2024

Join our tours & avoid waiting in line at the colosseum discover its historical importance, save time & money, and gain priority access to exclusive areas for a memorable experience..

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Pick one of our ultimate Colosseum tours for an unforgettable experience

Deciding which tour to book for the Colosseum depends on your preferences and knowledge. We offer a range of Colosseum tour options, allowing you to choose the one that suits you best. Our tours provide access to exclusive areas and allow you to skip the entrance lines.

If you want to explore the Arena and get a gladiator’s view of the Colosseum or discover the Colosseum’s Underground tunnels, where animals were kept, we have the perfect tours for you. We advise joining our Early Morning Tour if you prefer to avoid crowds. For the special experience of the Colosseum under the stars, check out our Night Tour . Whatever tour you select, you can relax and enjoy your experience. You’ll be accompanied by experienced local guides who will lead you through the Colosseum to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable. You should not miss exploring the Roman Forum, the ancient heart of Rome, and climbing to Palatine Hill for the panoramic views of the Colosseum.

Our tours are small to ensure a high-quality experience, and you can choose from flexible tour options that last between one to seven and a half hours. We are confident you will be satisfied with whichever option you choose.

Colosseum Tours – Prices and Overview

Compare prices and choose among our top Colosseum tours

Our guests are thrilled with our Colosseum tours!

See what makes them so special!

Must book Underground tour

This was the best Colosseum experience for us! I took my family, everyone loved it, especially the kids who loved exploring underground tunnels. The guide made history exciting and fun to listen to. I was under the Arena and seeing all those chambers and cages where they kept the wild animals was amazing. We definitely recommend this tour.

Well worth your time and money

We took the guided Colosseum tour, and it was worth it. We immediately knew we made a good choice when we saw the ticket lines. Our guide was good and entertaining and told us so many interesting things about the Colosseum's history. Seeing the Colosseum from above when we climbed to Palatine Hill was wonderful.

A great experience

We had a private tour, which was perfect for us as we wanted to explore the Colosseum at our own pace. The guide showed us all the places, some of which are not so well known. My husband could not walk very fast, so our guide adapted to our pace and took great care of us. We really enjoyed getting to know all the stories we heard. All in all, a great experience.

Which Colosseum tour is the best for me?

If you want a full colosseum experience.

Skip The Line

Colosseum Guided Tour

Book this guided tour and discover the heat and symbol of Rome - the magnificent Colosseum. Get awed by its grandeur and wander through the Roman Forum, where emperors once roamed. Let a passionate guide bring ancient Rome alive, revealing the intriguing secrets of its iconic ruins!

Popular choice

Colosseum Arena Floor Tour

Enter the Colosseum on the ground floor and walk onto the Arena floor through the gladiator’s gate. Experience the excitement of standing there like a real gladiator. With priority access, you can access the second tier and learn about the life of ancient Romans and gladiator fights during this thrilling tour.

For a unique Colosseum experience and personal attention

Limited Time Offer

Colosseum Underground Tour

Explore the hidden area of the Colosseum with this unique Underground Tour. Get privileged access to sections of the Colosseum that are unavailable with a standard ticket. Walk through the corridor used by gladiators to enter the underground area. Discover chambers, cages for wild animals, traps, weapon storage, and tunnels beneath the floor leading to the Arena.

Private Tour

Colosseum Private Tour

Book this Colosseum private tour and explore the main symbol of Rome with an expert guide. Uncover hidden stories, skip the long lines, and enjoy a personalized experience.

For those wishing to explore the Colosseum without crowds

Avoid the crowds

Colosseum Early Morning Tour

Start your day early and join our early-bird morning tour to enjoy the Colosseum’s main sights. Step back in time and experience the Colosseum before the crowds arrive. Enter with priority access and explore the main highlights of the Colosseum during this express guided tour.

Under the stars

Colosseum Night Tour

Discover the Colosseum at night and explore this historical place in peace and without the crowds. With fewer visitors, enjoy a more intimate and memorable experience of the Colosseum and its main highlights at sunset. Your guide will explain the historical importance of this monument, where dramatic gladiator games and events occurred.

FAQ – Colosseum Tours

Why book one of our colosseum tours, how long does the colosseum tour take, when can i book the colosseum tour, is there a dress code to visit the colosseum, can i bring food and drinks to the colosseum, are there toilet and luggage facilities at the colosseum, is the colosseum wheelchair accessible, is the colosseum children-friendly.

Our TOP 3 Colosseum tours

T&t selected and approved.

Our best-selling tour

Join our small group tour and skip the lines to discover the Colosseum with our professional local guide. Enjoy our top guided tour of the largest amphitheater, built by Emperor Vespasian, as a gift to the people of Rome so they could enjoy games, a popular form of entertainment in those times. Enjoy priority access to this famous monument, which could seat 50,000 spectators. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings, attracting millions of visitors every year. During your visit, you will hear exciting stories about the history of the Colosseum and its main purpose in the history of ancient Rome. You will learn about the lives of the gladiators, who were often enslaved and trained in special gladiator schools. Our engaging tour will offer a better understanding of these professional Roman fighters who often battled wild animals to death for public spectacle.

Explore the hidden chambers of the Colosseum

Discover the hidden chambers of the Colosseum that are not accessible with a standard ticket. Join our small group guided tour to explore this large underground space beneath the entire Colosseum, where the real behind-the-scenes action of the gladiator games took place. During our tour, you will see cages where wild animals were kept, storage areas for weapons, and learn how trap doors were used to create dramatic entrances. Walk the same narrow paths that gladiators once took as they prepared to enter the Arena to entertain the crowds. Learn the stories about their lives and how some became famous for their bravery and skills despite their low social status. This unique tour will give you a deeper insight into the Colosseum’s history and the world of gladiators.

Colosseum Arena Tour

Where the action took place.

Discover the Colosseum’s top attraction of the Colosseum and the central stage for all events: the Arena floor. All the action took place here, with gladiators and animals fighting to entertain Rome‘s public. During your tour, your guide will explain how hidden lifts were used to raise animals to the Arena floor and how the original wooden floor was constructed for optimal viewing from all seats. The Arena could accommodate around 50,000 people who enjoyed watching spectacular events, from gladiator fights to theater shows. These events were meant to keep people happy, a concept the Roman emperors called “ Bread and Games.”  You will learn many more interesting facts about the architectural value of this ancient Roman building that is still standing strong after almost 2000 years.

Plan your visit to the Colosseum in advance!

Before your visit to the Colosseum, check out our complete guide, which includes all the essential information and tips you need.

Prefer to visit the Colosseum by yourself?

You’ll miss some key insights that are only available on our tours.

These are our bestselling skip-the-line tickets!

Skip the line

Colosseum Priority Ticket

Visit the Colosseum with this skip-the-line entry ticket. Meet your host, who will guide you to the priority entrance for direct access to the Colosseum. Complete your visit by exploring the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and climbing to Palatine Hill for a panoramic view of the Colosseum.

Best value combo ticket

Colosseum & Vatican Ticket

Get the best deal online and make the most of your holiday budget with our Colosseum & Vatican Pass, valid for two months. Enjoy a hosted entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Enter the Vatican, discover its highlights with skip-the-line access, and see other top attractions in Rome.

The Colosseum

Visit The Colosseum In Rome, Italy

Colosseum Tickets

The Colosseum is one of the most visited monuments in the world, receiving 4 million visitors every year. If you’re planning a trip to Rome, it is a can’t-miss attraction along with the Vatican, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and many more.

Colosseum Ticket Options

ℹ️ Colosseum tickets sell out fast in high season. We recommend looking on both Tiqets and GetYourGuide to increase your chances of finding a ticket.

• The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
• St.Peter’s Basilica or Castel Sant’Angelo or Borghese Gallery (pick one)
• Tour: Colosseum & Arena Floor (Small-Group) Get VIP access to the arena floor!
• Colosseum & Vatican Museum The two most popular attractions in Rome in one single reservation.
• Colosseum Tickets Overview page showing all available tickets by day. We recommend opening this page in high season.
• Group Tickets For group tickets (10+ people) visit our partner groupsightseeing.com

💡 Colosseum sold out? Try the Roman Ruins Pass A great alternative when the Colosseum ticket is not available. This pass includes access to the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Imperial Forum.

(Access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill is included in all tickets)

Read more about:

Buy your Colosseum tickets online

Fortunately, you can buy Colosseum tickets online before your trip; that way you can spend more time exploring Rome and less waiting in line and worrying about figuring out where and how to see all of the Eternal City’s architectural and artistic marvels.

Should I buy Colosseum tickets in advance?

Short answer: yes!

• Book Colosseum tickets in advance and they’ll be sent right to your inbox.
• Print your tickets out at home, no pick up necessary.
• No waiting in line at the ticket office — you’ll save a lot of time.
• Choose the date and time of your visit and don’t worry about there being huge crowds on the day.

There is a slight mark-up for buying Colosseum tickets online but pre-booking will allow you to dodge the annoying queues that are an non-negotiable part of a visit to any important monument.

However, keep in mind that you’ll still have to go through security, although this process will take less time than it would if you’re not an advance ticket holder.

Can I skip the line with Colosseum tickets?

Yes you can. There are two accesses to the Colosseum, one for advance ticket holders and one for those buying them on the spot. The advance ticket holder line is much shorter so you’ll be able to get inside much quicker than if you show up without tickets. Temperatures can be quite high in Rome in the summer so less time spent waiting in line is always better.

Where do I buy Colosseum tickets?

Right here (link)! TheColosseum.org is a licensed retailer of official Colosseum tickets. You can book your tickets through our site in under 5 minutes and you’ll have them in your inbox and ready to go in an instant.

There are also audio guides available (in English) and tickets for children at a reduced rate.

Colosseum Ticket Prices

Below you can see the prices for all colosseum tickets. By buying your colosseum tickets online you will incur a slight mark up on the price that corresponds to the booking fee, in exchange for the advantages listed above: skipping the line, being able to choose the date and time slot of your visit , not being left without tickets because there are too many visitors on a given day, etc.

What is the Colosseum entrance fee?

You’ll learn more about this important monument and find your visit to be richer and more captivating with some expert explanations of its most important features and its history.

Combo tickets: Colosseum, Forum & Palatine Hill

One of the most common questions visitors ask is “do I need to buy separate tickets for the Colosseum, Forum, and the Palatine Hill?”. The answer is no . The Colosseum is part of the same monumental complex as the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum , and all three are within walking distance of each other.

Fortunately for visitors, all three sites share the same ticket. You can visit the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum with the same ticket you use for the Colosseum — so don’t get rid of it once you’re done with the gladiatorial arena!

Do I have to visit all three monuments on the same day?

No you don’t, tickets for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill are valid for two days, so you can spread out your visit if you want.

That said, Rome is jam packed full of beautiful and spectacular monuments and given that these three are all very near each other it may be worth it to see them all in go to make the most of your time.

Other ways to visit the Colosseum

If you want to visit the colosseum after hours, or would like a combined ticket that allows you to see some of Rome’s other important attractions, you’re in luck.

Visiting the Colosseum at night

Beginning in March 2017, visitors can book a guided night time tour of the colosseum. The arena takes on an entirely new quality at night. It feels even more ancient and impressive. Check out our guided tours page (link) for more info on visiting the colosseum by night.

Instead of booking individual tickets to every monument and museum in the Eternal City and having to handle dozens of emails, receipts, and papers, you can make your life much easier with the all-in-one Roma City Pass.

The pass includes free or discounted access to many of the city’s top attractions (including the colosseum) as well as transfers to and from the airport and transport on Rome’s sightseeing hop-on-hop-off buses. Find out more about the Rome City pass here (link).

Click here to view all ticket options »

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Do you prefer to visit the colosseum with a guided tour.

Explore the beauty of ancient Rome and get ready to take a journey into the past. Choose and book one of our proposals or send us your request for your customized private or group tour of the Colosseum.

Inclusions in the Rome Colosseum Tour

• Skip-the-line tickets are included for ALL TOURS.
• All our guides are local, experienced, and friendly, capable of making your visit unforgettable.
• Some tours are available in other languages, such as French, Spanish, German, and English.
• You can cancel up to 5 days of the tour and get a full refund.
• Receive instant confirmation and use your mobile vouchers for the tour.
• Major credit cards accepted.

The essentials you need to know

• Book in advance to avoid disappointment, as this is a top-rated attraction.
• Be sure to add full names at the moment of the booking.
• Wear comfortable shoes for grip as it can get slippery in wet weather.
• Wear a hat in summer and apply plenty of sunscreen. Bring only essentials to breeze through the security checks.
• There is no luggage storage facility-on-site, so travel with a light backpack
• The Colosseum welcomes tourists of all abilities.
• If you are visiting in the summer, avoid the midday as it can get uncomfortably hot with limited shade

Sunday FREE Entry To The Colosseum

MEMORABLE COLOSSEUM GUIDED TOURS

Why Choose Us

Our expert staff will be able to manage every request and booking, putting the needs of our customers first. The aim of “Rome Colosseum Tour” is to make your experience in Italy unique and unforgettable. Our responsibility is to make your trip to Rome memorable.

Rome Amazing Tour

Recommended tours of the colosseum.

Our tours range from quick one-hour tours to full-day tours. The Rome Colosseum Tours has something for everyone. With small groups for a more engaging experience, to Skip-The-Line tours, you can be assured of an experience of Rome like none other. Explore the various levels of the Colosseum, both above ground and underground, as your guide enthralls you with tales of the brave and bloodthirsty.

Tickets Skip-The-Line Entrance Are Available For All Tours

Discover archaeological treasures at the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum

View the Colosseum like never before. Visit sections that are not available to regular ticket holders. Our expert guides will remove the myths you grew up with and provide you with the stories that took place centuries ago.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tours

EVER WONDERED WHAT THE STRANGE HOLES ARE WITHIN THE WALLS OF THE COLOSSEUM?

Can i enter the inside of the colosseum.

You will need to purchase a ticket. Something many visitors are not aware of is that the Standard ticket only covers access to the standing tiers of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. You will need to purchase special tickets to gain more access to other parts of the Colosseum.

Is entry free?

Yes, it is available for free entry on the 1st Sunday of every month. Disabled visitors have free entry along with their EU guide.

What Is your recommendation of seeing the Colosseum the best way?

We strongly suggest that you book in advance as lines to enter the Colosseum can be very long, and in summer, it can get very hot and humid. As there is much to discover at the Colosseum, a Rome Colosseum Guided Tour would be the best option.

Is entry to the Roman Forum free?

The Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and the Colosseum now all form part of the standard ticket. The Roman Forum is part of your guided tour if you have selected a guided tour option.

How much time do I need to explore the Colosseum, and can I tour it on my own?

Without a guide – 1 hour aproximatively. With a guide – 1.5-3 hours depending on the tour you select. Yes, you are allowed to freely roam the Colosseum and soak in the beauty of the ancient ruins.

What are the best Colosseum visiting times?

To avoid the crowds and long waiting lines, it is suggested to enter the Colosseum as soon as it opens at 08.30 or an hour before the last entry. If possible, plan your trip mid-week to avoid the weekend crowds. November to February is considered low season, so it may be a good idea to plan your trip at the Colosseum at that time.

Am I allowed to bring a filled bottle of water into the Colosseum?

Only empty bottles are allowed in the Colosseum. There are many fountains located in the complex, and so you can fill your bottles once you have entered.

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Colosseum Night Tour

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• Ancient Rome
• Duration : 2.5 hours

About Colosseum Night Tour

With breathtaking views, smaller crowds and VIP access, a night tour is the best and most exclusive way to enjoy a visit to Rome's famous Colosseum . When you visit the Colosseum at night, you experience it in a unique way. The Colosseum seems even more imposing with the starry night sky as a backdrop.

After the crowds have gone home and night has fallen in Rome, the ancient city is lit up like a jewel and an exclusive few are allowed to visit the Colosseum at night. By joining this Colosseum evening tour, an expert guide will lead the way and enhance your experience with fascinating tales from ancient Roman history. You will get to imagine the gladiators battling on the Colosseum arena floor in front of thousands of spectators.

Depending on the type of tour you choose, you can experience just the Colosseum at night or you can opt for a walk down the impressive Via Fori Imperiali. Flanked on either side with ancient markets and dramatic architecture, your guide will describe the importance of these forums while you admire the solitary columns and grand basilicas. One of the best views in Rome can be seen during an evening walk past the Roman Forum. There are a few lonely columns that are dramatically lit in a valley flooded with the remnants of ancient Rome.

Entering the Colosseum at night is already one of the most sought after experiences in Rome, so when the evening tour of the Colosseum includes special exhibitions the experience is all the more magical. The Colosseum is known for its accurate and detailed exhibitions and productions. At different times throughout the year the Colosseum night visit may also include video projections on the arena floor or perhaps the next big project that archaeologists have dreamt up. These opportunities are truly once-in-a-lifetime!

Colosseum Night Tour Highlights

• The Colosseum at Night is one of Rome’s most beautiful sights. Entering the monument at night is even more special.
• Experiencing the Colosseum when it is less crowded allows you more time and freedom to explore. Learning the history from a local expert makes you appreciate the Colosseum that much more.
• On these special Night Tours in the Colosseum, you’ll get the most dramatic experience and thrill of entering the moonlit ancient amphitheater.
• This after hours tour has limited spots and only a select few are allowed once the sun has gone down.
• Walking through the Colosseum at night and imagining what it must have been like to be in Ancient Rome and have the freedom to walk through the amphitheater whenever you wanted.
• Experience the beauty of ancient Rome as you walk down the Via Fori Imperiali and admire the dramatically lit ancient ruins (depending on the itinerary you book).
• Walking with your guide past Trajan’s column as well as the Trajan Market as you prepare to enter the Colosseum.
• Hear stories of Rome’s legendary characters from a local tour guide that is an expert in the field.
• Walk the Colosseum’s eerily-lit and looming corridors as your guide leads you towards its inner arena.
• The Colosseum at night is so much more serene and less crowded than during the day when thousands of tourists are trying to enter.
• Seeing the monument in the distance and walking past the beautifully spooky Roman Forum on the way to your Colosseum Night Tour.
• After the Colosseum evening tour has finished, sitting the piazza and thinking about its incredible history while basking in the glow of the monument.
• Access to the Colosseum Arena Floor and/or Colosseum Underground may be included, this depends entirely on the Colosseum administration’s decision on what to include in the ticket (it is not up to the tour providers).

Visitor Highlights

• Meet your guide and get to know your small group as you anxiously await the moment when you can enter the Colosseum under the moonlight . When you visit the Colosseum at night with such exclusive tickets, it makes the whole group come together in a special way.
• The Colosseum’s facade is especially impactful at night and your guide will point out the detail in the columns as well as the holes in the facade. The golden lights cause it to glow like a jewel, especially with the night sky as a backdrop.
• Explore the eerie corridors as your guide tells tales of gladiator battles and take a moment to think about the amount of men and women that lost their lives in the Colosseum.
• When the Colosseum Evening tour begins, you will be standing at the base of the monument and inspecting the facade as your guide recounts the history of the ancient city. The moment when you get to enter the building is absolutely magical.
• Walk the Via Fori Imperiali and admire the breathtaking views into the empty Roman Forum . There are ancient marble remnants strewn about the grassy field with a few standing columns.
• Access to the arena floor and/or underground may be included during the visit. The areas of access are determined by the Colosseum staff and apply to every type of Colosseum night ticket.
• Getting a photo of yourself while standing on the arena floor is always an amazing opportunity and it is even more special during the Colosseum Evening Tour. It will be a memory that lasts a lifetime.
• Taking the opportunity to visit the Colosseum at night is one of the most unique and rewarding experiences in Rome. Not only to visit the famous monument, but to do it with fewer crowds and in a beautiful setting.

Travel Tips

• Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time, this will ensure you have enough time to find your Colosseum Night Tour meeting point.
• While there are a few on-site toilets at the Colosseum, the waiting time can take a while. So be prepared!
• You won’t find any luggage facilities, restaurants or cafes on-site.
• All of the entrances to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill have a mandatory security check. This check cannot be avoided and is necessary for the safety of all visitors.
• Only small bags are allowed inside the Colosseum. No luggage or bags with wheels are allowed.
• Do not bring weapons, aerosol sprays or glass containers.
• The people with reduced mobility can easily access the Colosseum as paths at all the available routes are marked. Some tours may not be wheelchair accessible, so be sure to check the tour details or opt for a private tour.
• It is highly recommended to get your tickets ahead of time online and because tours for the Colosseum at night sell out fast.
• The Colosseum tour prices vary and can cost anywhere from 30€ up to 100€, or more. The type of tour you choose will be reflected in the price and duration of the tour.

Know Before you Go

Covid Safety Measures:

All the areas that customers come in contact with are frequently cleaned

In order to reduce crowds, the number of visitors is limited 

Customers are required to bring and wear face masks

There is a mandatory temperature check for customers 

Social distancing standards must be maintained inside the monument

Special Colosseum Night Tickets:

The Colosseum night ticket does not include entrance to the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill (these areas remain closed at night).

It is up to the Colosseum administration to determine what areas are accessible during the Colosseum night visit. It is not guaranteed that either the arena or the underground will be accessible to visitors at night.

What to bring:

Weather-appropriate clothing

Comfortable shoes

Passport or ID card

Things that are not allowed:

Any kind of weapons or sharp objects are not allowed.

Luggage or large bags, even smaller bags with wheels, are not allowed.

Getting There

• Metro: The Colosseum metro stop is located on the B line of Rome’s metro. Check the map at your local station.
• Regional Train - Take the underground line B from the Termini Station and get off at the Colosseum stop.
• Bus - There are many public buses that stop in front of the Amphitheatre on your Colosseum tour: 75, 81, 85, 87, 117, 118.
• Car: There are paid parking spots available in the neighbourhoods surrounding the Colosseum.
• Tram: Tram #3 passes the Colosseum
• Bicycle: The Colosseum is accessible by bike, just make sure to lock your bike in an appropriate place. Bikes that are locked to the railings in archaeological areas could be taken by the police.

Note: The Imperial Forum Road is closed to car and bus traffic on Sundays, which means it’s the perfect time to go for rental bikes or take a nice walk along via Fori Imperiali towards the Colosseum. Some bus routes are deviated on Sundays, so be sure to allow extra time to arrive.

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Colosseum At Night

See the Colosseum at Night

Discover the magic of Rome after dark with our exclusive experiences! Our Colosseum Night Tours are part of the best Rome night tours, allowing you to avoid the daytime crowds and enjoy the mystery that evening brings.

And when booking a Colosseum Underground Tour, you’ll discover secrets that daytime tours simply can’t provide. Don’t waste any time and book your Colosseum at night tour here below.

Best Sellers of the Colosseum at Night

Here below are the best-rated tours of the Colosseum at night, as well as the best entry tickets for both the ancient arena and the Roman Forum.

We recommend booking early to secure your tickets and tours as they sell out very fast, especially if you’re looking for a private tour.

VIP Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

Visit the majestic Colosseum and the historic Roman Forum with priority access. Discover where gladiators fought, all at your own pace.

Colosseum Night Tour with Arena Floor

See the Colosseum under the stars. This tour includes exclusive reconstructed arena floor access, revealing secrets of ancient Rome.

Colosseum Sunset Tour With Tickets

Explore the Colosseum during the golden hour on this guided tour. Skip the long lines and head straight inside the Colosseum by night.

Must-Read Before Visiting

Colosseum opening times in 2024.

Make sure to check out the latest opening times. Whether you’re planning a morning tour or an evening visit, knowing the hours can help you avoid the crowds.

This is the Best Time to Visit the Colosseum

This guide highlights the optimal times to visit the Colosseum and join an entire tour, considering factors like weather, crowd sizes, and special events.

10 Interesting Facts About the Colosseum

Learn the fascinating history of the Colosseum with ten intriguing facts. Here’s what makes the Colosseum one of the most visited sites in Rome.

Roman Forum in Rome: Complete Guide

Here’s everything you have to know about visiting the Roman Forum. We discuss the tickets, the cost, opening hours, and more.

10 Private Colosseum Tours to Join in 2024

If you want to visit the Colosseum at night or by day with a private guide, this is the ultimate list you need, with the best tours.

What to Expect at the Colosseum Underground

The Colosseum Underground is the most interesting part of the arena. Here’s what you can expect and the best tours to join.

Absolutely! Seeing the Colosseum at night is a memorable experience that we highly recommend.

With fewer usual crowds, you’ll enjoy a more intimate exploration of the ancient amphitheater. The illumination casts a magical glow over the ancient structure, creating a mysterious atmosphere that’s entirely different from daytime visits.

Our Colosseum night tour provides VIP access to special areas, including the underground tunnels, which are usually closed during the day. The cooler evening temperatures also make for a more comfortable visit—just be sure to wear comfortable shoes. With our tour guide, you’re guaranteed a serene setting, a private or small group, and an incredible Colosseum Tour.

Unfortunately, you can’t visit the Colosseum at night without joining a tour. Night visits are limited to guided tours to ensure the safety and security of the visitors and the ancient monument.

These tours are a great way to learn more about the history and secrets of the Colosseum, with expert guides sharing fascinating stories and facts about the Colosseum , which is a great addition.

Also, note that booking a night tour offers a more enjoyable setting without the daytime crowds, and that is a massive advantage.

The latest you can visit the Colosseum usually depends on the time of year, as closing times vary. During the summer months, the Colosseum can stay open as late as midnight, especially if you’re on a night tour.

Regular ticketed entry usually ends before sunset, so check the specific times when you plan your visit. Check the opening times of the Colosseum here and book one of our Colosseum tours to make the most of your time in Rome.

Yes, the Colosseum lights up at night, and it looks amazing! The special lights show off the old walls and arches, making the whole building stand out beautifully, and this is why we recommend coming during the night.

This lighting makes the Colosseum look even more special and is great for taking pictures. Whether you’re just walking by or going on a night tour, seeing the Colosseum all lit up is definitely a sight you won’t want to miss.

Visiting the Colosseum at night offers several unique advantages. Here are five reasons to consider a nighttime tour:

More Magical Lighting : When lit up at night, the Colosseum takes on a magical appearance that allows you to see the arena from a different perspective. Smaller Crowds : Evening visits are typically less crowded. This means more space to explore and less time waiting. Cooler Weather : Rome’s daytime heat can be intense. Cooler evening temperatures make for a more comfortable visit. Exclusive Access : Some areas of the Colosseum are only open during night tours, offering unique insights and experiences. Distinctive Experience : Experiencing this iconic structure under the night sky is different from any daytime visit, providing a new perspective on its historical significance. And you’ll also learn about the Roman Empire and Roman Gladiators in a quiet environment, as opposed to the day.

While visiting the arena during the day is a must-do in Rome, joining a Colosseum evening tour with a local expert makes everything much more personal and unique, and it’s something you don’t want to miss. And you’ll have exclusive access to the underground and arena floor.

Experience the Colosseum Night like never before with our signature Rome night tours!

Join our expert tour guide for a fun time through history. Skip the lines, beat the crowds, and get ready for an unforgettable evening at Rome’s most iconic landmarks.

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21 Best Colosseum Quotes to Inspire Your Next Roman Holiday!

The Colosseum is undoubtedly one of the most iconic symbols of Rome.

You can’t visit the Eternal City without being awed by the famous structure (especially if you take a tour inside this ancient gladiatorial arena like I did).

I’m not the only one impressed by the Colosseum’s grandeur. 

There are many fantastic quotes about the Colosseum. Everyone from famous authors to comedians — and even film directors — has something to say about this architectural masterpiece.

I’ve rounded up all of the best Colosseum quotes for you.  They’re sure to have you planning your next trip to Rome!

Best Quotes about the Colosseum in Rome

Famous colosseum quotes.

Many Colosseum quotes are noteworthy due to the famous people that they are attributed to, from Lord Byron to Voltaire.

Some of the most famous quotes about the Colosseum tie together the importance of the Colosseum to Rome and likewise the importance of Rome to the rest of the world. 

Let’s try to avoid the Fall of Rome, shall we?

“Rome will exist as long as the Coliseum does; when the Coliseum falls, so will Rome; when Rome falls, so will the world.” ~ Saint Venerable Bede

“The ancient Romans build their greatest masterpieces of architecture, their amphitheaters, for wild beasts to fight in.” – Voltaire

“When falls the Coliseum, Rome shall fall; And when Rome falls–the World.” ~ Lord Byron

“When in Rome, the past whispers in every corner, and the Colosseum stands as its loudest echo.” – Unknown  (This one is my favorite – so poetic!)

Funny quotes about the Colosseum

Now, there are more funny quotes about the Eiffel Tower than there are about the Colosseum.

But I managed to dig up a few to tickle your funny bone!   

“In Rome, the emperor sat in a special part of the Colosseum called the Caesarian Section.” ~ George Carlin

“I’m not sure what it was like to walk into the Coliseum, but I bet it was something like this. The best place in the world to watch a sporting event.” ~ Wright Thompson

“The atmosphere here is a cross between the Munich Beer Festival and the Coliseum at Rome when the Christians were on the menu.” ~ Sid Waddell, English sportscaster

“It’s no accident that of all the monuments left of the Greco-Roman culture the biggest is the ballpark, the Colosseum, the Yankee Stadium of ancient times.” ~ Red Smith

“I have been to the pyramids of America. I have seen the cathedral of commerce. Our Parthenon, our Coliseum, our Chartres. I have been to the Mall of America, the world’s largest shopping mall.” ~ Molly Ivins

Inspirational Colosseum quotes

The Colosseum is one of the treasures of ancient Rome.  It is simply breathtaking, and it’s no wonder that every  sightseeing tour of Rome  will include a visit here.

A walk around Rome is like visiting an open-air art museum, with stunning ruins, churches, and fountains around every corner. 

These quotes about the beauty of Rome and the Colosseum are certainly inspiring me to plan another trip to Italy!

“The Colosseum is not only a magnificent architectural wonder but also a testament to the glory and grandeur of the Roman Empire.” ~ Unknown

“Man’s history has been graven on the rock of Egypt, stamped on the brick of Assyria, enshrined in the marble of the Parthenon-it rises before us a majestic presence in the piled up arches of the Coliseum-it lurks an unsuspected treasure amid the oblivious dust of archives and monasteries-it is embodied in all the looms of religions, of races, of families.” ~ Charles Thomas Newton , Archaeologist

“In the evening we came upon the Coliseum when it was already twilight. When one looks at it, all else seems little. The edifice is so vast, that one cannot hold the image of it in one’s soul: in memory, we think it smaller and then return to it again to find it every time greater than before.” ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Thought-provoking Colosseum quotes

It’s not all fun and (gladiatorial) games, however.   The legacy of the Colosseum and the history of the Romans have provoked some deeper contemplation.

These are a few of the more serious thoughts inspired by the Colosseum.

“Rome is the capital of Europe; it’s as simple as that. You need to see what the Romans did 2,000 years ago. They were so advanced compared to the rest of the world. They showed us how to make roads, toilet seats, how to do irrigation, and more. When you see the Colosseum you won’t believe it was built so long ago.” – Gino D’Acampo

“When you study history and look at every civilization that has grown up and died off, they all leave one remnant: a major sports colosseum at the heart of their capital. Our fate can be different; but only if we start doing things differently”. ~ Thomas Friedman

“Evil can also be beautiful. The Coliseum in Rome, for example, a wonderful structure with an awful past. Just think about the bloody gladiator fights there.” ~ Rem Koolhaas

Cinematic quotes about the Colosseum

You’re all familiar with some of the most popular movies set in Rome, such as  Gladiator .    

Directors want the gorgeous backdrop of Rome for their scenes, just as much as you want to visit these attractions to get your spectacular  Rome Instagram photos .

However, I was a bit surprised to see directors drawing parallels between the Colosseum and the competitiveness of the film industry.

“The beating heart of Rome is not the marble of the Senate, it’s the sand of the Colosseum. He’ll bring them death and they will love him for it.” ~ Gracchus,  Gladiator

“I’m shakin’ the dust of this crummy little town off my feet and I’m gonna see the world. Italy, Greece, the Parthenon, the Colosseum.” ~ George Bailey ,  It’s a Wonderful Life

“One of the reasons I love to jump back and forth between mediums is that film does allow me to be more literal. I can go to the real place. I can go to the Coliseum, and I don’t have to fake it.” – Julie Taymor

“In ‘Roma,’ I wanted to get across the idea that underneath Rome today is ancient Rome. So close. I am always conscious of that, and it thrills me. Imagine being in a traffic jam at the Coliseum! Rome is the most wonderful movie set in the world… As was the case with many of my film ideas, it was inspired by a dream” ~ Federico Fellini

“People like reality; I think it’s always happened from the Roman times, when people used to go to a coliseum and watch people compete against each other. I think networks and cable channels find it an easier way of producing and putting things together, because people will watch it and it’s cheaper.” ~ David Charvet

“Listen, you make a big movie, you’re going into the Coliseum, and people are going to give you the thumbs up or the thumbs down. And that’s part of the game. It’s part of the fun as well.” ~ Sam Mendes

Final Thoughts:

It’s not too surprising that the Colosseum in Rome has been the spark of inspiration for so many quotes.

Its longevity is a testament to the engineering capabilities of the ancient Romans.  As an engineer myself, I can certainly appreciate that!  And its beauty, well, that speaks for itself. 

I’ll bet these Colosseum quotes have you dreaming of taking a vacation to Italy!

Buon viaggio!

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The Most Iconic Art and Architecture You Must See in Rome

Dale Pappas Last Updated: March 3, 2023

How can one see all that Rome has to offer ? From Trevi Fountain and the National Rome Museum to the Pantheon and the Colosseum, Rome is an ever-giving city of magnificent works. Let’s look at 19 of Rome’s most iconic art and architecture to make the most of your Rome trip!

This article isn’t meant to replace a guided visit—quite the opposite! Reading up on an attraction will make a guided tour more memorable and interesting! You will impress your travel partners and engage more with the guide. Check out our dedicated guide to planning your visit to Rome , which has everything you’ll need, and our top-rated Rome tours .

19 of the Eternal City’s Artistic & Architectural Must-See Highlights

You’ve probably heard the old saying that a lifetime is not enough to see Rome. For sure, we could all take 1,000 “trips of a lifetime,” find unique artistic and cultural experiences, and still barely scratch the surface of all the art and architecture Rome has to offer.

Thus, Rome’s fame as the “Eternal City” is well-founded. For instance, over the centuries, other cities claimed to be the next Rome (Constantinople or modern Istanbul and Moscow are two examples). But obviously, no city boasts the claim to ancient Rome’s legacies more than Rome itself.

Our world owes much not just to ancient Roman legacies but also those from papal and Renaissance Rome. Indeed, one of Rome’s enduring gifts to us comes from the city’s amazing art and architecture. Below, we’ll explore 19 iconic examples of Rome’s art and architecture.

So, let’s begin!

19. Basilica of St. John Lateran

Rome’s Cathedral | Papal Seat | Constantine

Before St. Peter’s and the Vatican City, no holy site in Rome rivaled the Basilica of St. John Lateran. In fact, scholar Lex Bosman tells us this is the world’s earliest cathedral.

Today this basilica remains Rome’s main cathedral and the seat of the Bishop of Rome (aka the pope). If you thought the Vatican was the home of the popes, you’d be right. However, this church is still a big deal since the pope still officiates an annual service here as his official seat.

Until 1870 AD, this was where popes were crowned. At that time, to be a pope meant being more than the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church. In fact, popes also ruled Rome and some surrounding territory.

The basilica sits on land confiscated from the Laterani family in 65 AD by Emperor Nero. However, the basilica itself originally dates to the days of Emperor Constantine in the 300s. Moreover, scholar John Fort explains the structure has been rebuilt and renovated on many occasions.

How to get to: Basilica of St. John Lateran

18. Pyramid of Caius Cestius & the Protestant Cemetery

Pyramid | Grand Tour | Literary Giants

A pyramid in Rome? Yes, the city boasts a small-scale tomb inspired by those across the Mediterranean in Egypt. Scholar George Sullivan says we don’t know much about 1st-century-BC Roman magistrate Caius Cestius.

But Caius Cestius made sure we would remember his tomb. Set into the Aurelian Wall near the Porta San Paolo, Caius Cestius’ likely got the idea because Romans could not get enough of Cleopatra and all things Egypt. (Try counting how many Egyptian obelisks you see in Rome!)

Nearby you’ll find the Protestant Cemetery (also called the Non-Catholic Cemetery). The cemetery is a who’s who of famous people from the days of the Grand Tour. Historian Eric G.E. Zuelow explains the Grand Tour of the 1700s is a forerunner of today’s tourism industry, where many young people visited cities across Europe. However, Rome was the premier destination for any Grand Tourist.

Walking through the cemetery, you’ll find the final resting place for several famous literary and artistic figures, including poet Jonathan Keats and the ashes of Percy Bysshe Shelley. Don’t miss the much-replicated sculpture, Angel of Grief, by American artist William Wetmore Story.

How to get to: Pyramid of Caius Cestius and the Protestant Cemetery

17. Mouth of Truth

Mystery | Legend | Film Star

Some people believe this is just a tourist trap. But the so-called Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) and its surroundings count among Rome’s great artistic and architectural gems. So, what is the Mouth of Truth?

Scholars have long debated the origins of this bearded face carved into a marble disc. However, John Fort explains that most now believe it is likely an ancient manhole cover or part of a fountain. It’s fame comes partly from the legend that says the mouth will shut on the hand placed inside of anyone with the audacity to tell a lie.

Made famous by Gregory Peck’s character in the movie Roman Holiday , visitors have been lining up for a pic ever since. You’ll find it today in a portico of the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. Moreover, the church itself, which dates to the medieval period should not be missed.

Nearby you’ll also find several well-preserved ancient Roman temples. For instance, art historian Penelope J.E. Davies tells us these temples, including the circular Temple of Hercules, date to the days of the Roman Republic. In fact, the Mouth of Truth may have originally formed part of one of these temples!

How to get to the Mouth of Truth

Modern & Contemporary Art | Zaha Hadid | Futuristic

You might think you’re in the wrong city if ancient ruins and renaissance/baroque art aren’t your thing. But Rome also boasts an array of modern and contemporary art museums. And the MAXXI tops the list.  

Showcasing Italian and international artists, the MAXXI or National Museum of 21st Century Arts was completed in 2009. Exhibition spaces generally have a lot of interactive and immersive experiences.

The museum’s futuristic design is the creation of the late British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid. This visionary woman’s proposal won over the judges, and the innovative architecture and layout still wows visitors today. Modern and contemporary art enthusiasts can also check out the MACRO branches at Via Nazionale and Testaccio. 

How to get to: MAXXI

15. Tempietto di Bramante

San Pietro in Montorio | Bramante | Martyria  

An overlooked spot in Trastevere—a neighborhood full of authentic Roman experiences —is the Tempietto (little temple). It stands in the courtyard of the Church of San Pietro in Montorio. Designed by architect Donato Bramante, the Tempietto dates to the early 1500s.

The Tempietto is among the top examples of Renaissance art and architecture in Rome. Moreover, Bramante’s inspiration, according to art historian Jack Freiberg, came from early Christian martyria —chapels built on the site of a saint’s martyrdom.

How to get to: Tempietto di Bramante

14. National Roman Museum: Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Classical Art | Frescoes | Statuary

One of the world’s best museums for classical art, the National Roman Museum has five branches including Palazzo Massimo. Highlights include stunning frescoes from Livia’s (wife of Augustus) villa.

In terms of statuary, there is a trove of Roman and Greek pieces. For instance, art historian Marina Sapelli says you’ll find a portrait of Emperor Augustus as pontifex maximus . However, the showstopper is the 1st century BC Greek bronze known as the Boxer at Rest or the Terme Boxer .

Learn more about this piece and other must-see sculptures from around the world!

How to get to: National Roman Museum

13. The Art of the Passeggiata

When in Rome | Communal Activity | Hidden Gems

A favored communal pastime in Rome is the evening (especially weekend) passeggiata . Some say Romans have this leisurely stroll down to an art. However, it is more than just a pleasant walk. In fact, an evening passeggiata for locals and visitors alike is an opportunity to do some window shopping, people watch, grab some gelato, and just enjoy a pleasant night.

Following a preferred route along Via del Corso is a great way to check out many attractions. For instance, you can take detours to see the Trevi Fountain or Spanish Steps.

You could also see Piazza Venezia and the monument to Italy’s first king, the Vittoriano. However, George Sullivan explains some prefer to call it the “typewriter” or “wedding cake.” Staying on the Corso, look out for the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, home to one of the city’s great private art collections.

At the same time, your passeggiata allows you to seek out your own favorite hidden gems. For example, take a walk down some tiny alleys. Whether you’re struck by a tiny church or a decorative façade of an apartment building, you are bound to find something that will leave you in awe.

12. The Great Synagogue of Rome

Ancient Community | Art Nouveau | Local History

The Great Synagogue towers over the Ghetto—one of Rome’s great cultural and culinary neighborhoods. Art historian Dana Katz tells us it dates to the 1890s, not long after the city’s Jews gained Italian citizenship. Moreover, this period marked the end of centuries of oppression for Rome’s Jewish community that had been restricted to this area by the papacy in the 16th century.

Built by architects Vincenzo Costa and Osvaldo Armanni, the building bears eclectic and art nouveau architectural styles. Moreover, the museum in the basement tells us the story of Rome’s ancient and resilient Jewish community.

In fact, Katz explains Rome’s Jewish community is the oldest in the world outside of the Holy Land. The museum also contains a wealth of artifacts and records tracing the history of Rome’s Jewish community. Both the Spanish Synagogue and the main Synagogue on the upper level are still in use.

While you’re here, pop across Rome’s oldest bridge Ponte Fabricio and explore the tiny island in the River Tiber!

How to get to: Synagogue of Rome

11. Baroque Rome

Bernini | Borromini | Ecstasy of Saint Teresa

If Florence is defined by Renaissance art, Rome is celebrated for the ornate styles of baroque. Thanks to artists and architects like Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Francesco Borromini, walking through Rome is like a living art history class in baroque highlights.

Baroque art emerged as the symbol of the counter-reformation. Arguably nothing is as synonymous with baroque as Bernini’s famous sculpture The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa .

Art historian Jonathan Unglaub explains Bernini’s Ecstasy of Saint Teresa forms the devotional core of the Cornaro Chapel in the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria. Moreover, Elizabeth Munro tells us the Ecstasy of Saint Teresa is a creative extravaganza.

One element that distinguishes this piece is that it is not just a work of sculpture. In fact, as art historian Ian Chilvers points out, Bernini incorporated sculpture, architecture, and painting to create a deeply pious and moving experience.

Bernini also graced Rome with several beautiful fountains. For example, you’ll find the most famous of these (the Fountain of the Four Rivers) in Piazza Navona . Finally, Bernini’s rival Borromini designed several highlights, including the interior of St. John Lateran and the Church of Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza.

How to get to: Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria and Piazza Navona

10. Square Colosseum

EUR | Quirky | Fendi

Officially called the Palace of Italian Civilization, the Square Colosseum boasts a quirky history. For starters, it began life as a project funded by Mussolini’s Fascist regime in Rome’s EUR neighborhood. In fact, the Square Colosseum’s initial purpose involved a World’s Fair destined to never happen because of WWII.

If the building’s arches remind you of a certain iconic Roman landmark, your eyes are not deceived. Indeed, historian RJB Bosworth tells us the architects designed the Square Colosseum as a modern update that would link Fascist Italy’s achievements with those of Ancient Rome and the Colosseum. However, the building has long outlived the regime behind its construction.

Today, the Square Colosseum houses the headquarters of the world-famous fashion brand Fendi and an exhibition space. It’s also been dubbed the “most depressing building,” yet that just adds to its intriguing appeal.

9. Urban Planning: Rome’s Piazze

Piazza di Spagna | Piazza del Popolo | Piazza del Campidoglio

The piazza or square is the pulse of any Italian city neighborhood or provincial town. Indeed, the neighborhood piazza is the place to hang out, people watch, or just grab a coffee. Rome naturally has no shortage of iconic piazze (multiple squares, of course).

We’ll start with Piazza di Spagna or Spanish Steps. Historian Gil Smith tells us the square has been a favorite haunt of visitors to Rome since the Grand Tour’s heyday. Home to the Spanish Steps , Trinità dei Monti Church, and Barcaccia fountain, Piazza di Spagna is also the gateway to luxury shopping.

Next, we have Piazza del Popolo. It dates to a 1530s urban planning project. Art historian Alta Macadam tells us it once marked a major entry point into Rome for travelers. Today this massive square is a focal point for demonstrations and celebrations.

In fact, you’ll find a huge Egyptian obelisk from the 13-12th centuries BC in the center. There are two 17th-century baroque churches along with the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo.

What’s cool about this church? Inside you’ll see artistic and architectural highlights from the likes of Bramante and Caravaggio. The lesson? Enter any church you can since you never know what art treasure you might find!

Gracing the Capitoline, one of Rome’s fabled seven hills, is Piazza del Campidoglio. While St. Peter’s and the Vatican is the religious center, this square is the city’s secular and civic heart. The current layout is the work of none other than Michelangelo. In the 16th century, Michelangelo designed both the square and surrounding buildings of the Capitoline Museums.

But there are countless others across the city—go find your favorite!

How to get to: Spanish Steps , Piazza del Popolo , and Piazza del Campidoglio

8. Trevi Fountain

Nicola Salvi | Rococo | Movie Set

Compared to many of the artists and architects discussed here, Nicola Salvi did not have a prestigious career. But I think we can all agree that being responsible for the Trevi Fountain counts for something.

Indeed, few fountains worldwide are as recognizable or beloved as the Trevi. This elaborate Rococo fountain gracing the façade of the Palazzo Poli dates to the mid-18th century. Historian Jean Castex explains that Salvi died before the project’s completion. Thus, his friend Pietro Bracci is responsible for the sculptures like that of Neptune in the center.

The Trevi is a popular backdrop for movies like the iconic scene in Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita . Don’t forget to bring a few coins to toss in as you make a wish!

How to get to Trevi Fountain

7. Roman Forum

Marshy Beginnings | Republic to Empire | Civic Space

There’s no better place to chart ancient Rome’s evolution from republic to empire. In fact, what started as a marshy area between the Capitoline and Palatine hills became the center of Roman public life. Furthermore, art historian Penelope J.E. Davies explains how the Forum changed as Rome’s fortunes evolved.

For instance, the Forum’s early years featured a hodgepodge of businesses, food stalls, and public buildings. However, Davies tells us by the 2nd century BC, when Rome conquered vast parts of the Mediterranean, the Forum became more dignified. Thus, instead of street vendors, fancier businesses appeared alongside monuments.

But even in the heyday of the Roman Empire, the Forum remained a major civic space. For example, art historian Maggie Popkin says Roman emperors made sure to hold ceremonies and build or restore monuments and public buildings in the Forum. It became ancient Rome’s popular downtown situated next to the most happening events at the Colosseum.

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

6. Borghese Gallery and Gardens

Borghese Family | Park | World-Class Art  

Not many cities combine a beautiful park with a world-class art museum. But in Rome, you’ll find that very combination in the Borghese Gardens. This vast park is made up of the estates of the Villa Borghese, Villa Giulia, and the Pincio gardens.

The Borghese are among the leading names in Rome’s history. For example, art historian Loyd Grossman says the family line produced popes and other influential leaders in Rome and beyond. The villa and park are the brainchild of Cardinal Scipione Borghese, nephew of Pope Paul V.

The Borghese Gallery housed in Scipione’s villa where you’ll find numerous artistic treasures created by sculptors like Bernini and Antonio Canova. Heading to the Borghese Gallery? Read more on the museum’s must-see art!

5. The Pantheon

Agrippa & Hadrian | Trendsetter | Marvel

The temple-turned-church dates to the reign of Emperor Hadrian in the 120s AD. Art historian Maggie Popkin explains that Hadrian actually built over Marcus Agrippa’s earlier 27 BC version.

Moreover, scholar George H. Sullivan believes the Pantheon might be one of—if not the —best-preserved building from all antiquity!

And just maybe you’ll appreciate that once you’ve finished admiring this architectural marvel. Indeed, it is stunning to walk through the massive entrance to look up at the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.

The Pantheon is one of the great trendsetters in the world of art and architecture. For instance, it is the inspiration behind Brunelleschi’s famous dome for the Duomo of Florence. In other words, you’d be hard-pressed to name a more influential building in the realm of architectural history.

How to get to the Pantheon

4. St. Peter’s Basilica

Microstate | Bernini’s Colonnade | Michelangelo’s Dome

You won’t face any border formalities, but a visit to Vatican City means crossing an international border into the tiny sovereign country. However, no European microstate boasts the artistic and architectural riches of the Vatican, beginning with St. Peter’s Basilica.

Like a giant hug, a curving colonnade designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini embraces St. Peter’s Basilica. In fact, this magnificent basilica is the largest church in Italy, the spiritual center of the Catholic Church, and an artistic treasure. (If you’re slightly confused, the largest cathedral in Italy is Milan’s Duomo, but this is the largest church.)

Indeed, St. Peter’s is covered with marble, gold, and masterpieces like Michelangelo’s La Pietà . And crowning it all is the dome built by Michelangelo. In fact, art historian Alta Macadam tells us the dome is over 440 feet high and was not completed in Michelangelo’s lifetime. Finally, today you can climb over 500 steps for a commanding view of Rome—one of the best things to do on your first (or repeat) trip to Rome!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide to St. Peter’s Basilica for more info.

3. Vatican Museums Art Collection

Papal Palaces | Eclectic Collection | Massive

The Vatican City boasts one of the world’s great art collections . Housed in several former papal palaces built for Renaissance popes like Julius II and Sixtus IV, the Vatican Museums is a can’t-miss attraction.

What you’ll find is an eclectic mix of art from antiquity to a smaller modern collection. Moreover, highlights include classical statues in the Pio Clementino Museum and Renaissance art in the Pinacoteca. It’s here you’ll find the famous Belvedere Torso , a collection of past popes’ carriages and cars, a 25-foot marble bathtub, Raphael’s School of Athens , and so much more.

The collection is exhibited along more than 4 miles of corridors! In other words, please make a game plan to get the most out of a visit to the Vatican. And lucky for you, we have you covered with some top-rated Vatican tours!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Vatican Guide for more info.

2. The Colosseum

Gladiators | Big Events | Roman Empire

Is there a monument more synonymous with Rome than the Colosseum? Probably not. The Colosseum is the hottest ticket in town and has been so for over 2,000 years!

Art historian Nathan Elkins tells us no monument embodies the wealth and power of the Roman Empire more than the Colosseum. People and exotic animals from across conquered lands entered this legendary Roman arena to battle for life and limb. Additionally, the Roman poet Martial described audiences enthralled by the sight of animals who came from as distant as present-day Iran and Scotland.

When you think of the Colosseum, you probably imagine gladiators and gladiatorial combat. While certainly a major part of the Colosseum’s history, the arena hosted other events like mock-naval battles. In its heyday, over 60,000 people witnessed events at the Colosseum!

Now the building is but a shell of its former self, but reconstruction efforts now allow visitors a change to walk onto the Arena Floor and imagine spectators cheering down at them. It remains an active archeological site today with more areas underground still being unearthed.

Want to learn more about the Colosseum? Check out our History of the Colosseum and Gladiatorial Games!

1. The Sistine Chapel

Michelangelo | Sixtus IV | Masterpiece

Limiting this list of famous art and architecture in Rome at 19 entries is tough. Each is undoubtedly a priceless treasure to see on your tour of Rome—and there are many more we would love to include. But we must close our list with the Sistine Chapel. Why?

Let’s start with an observation. For me, it feels as though a visit is like finding your birthday presents early. There is something quite exclusive and forbidden about your first glance at this masterpiece. Even after walking past miles of magnificent art on display in the Vatican Museums, getting to this sacred chapel just feels different. Moreover, there’s something to be said about visiting a masterpiece where you’re not allowed to snap a selfie.

On a more detached note, we’re concluding with the Sistine Chapel for two reasons. First, the art adorning this chapel is widely regarded as among the finest ever created in history. Finally, what you see is largely the product of not just the greatest artist of his age, but arguably of all time: Michelangelo.

And if that wasn’t enough, other artists involved like Botticelli and Perugino are also legendary. What they created for us remains one of the most celebrated and coveted artworks in the world.

Scholars like art historian Ian Chilvers argue Michelangelo’s creation is the culmination of Renaissance art. This massive chapel’s name derives from Pope Sixtus IV, who had it built in the 1480s.

Finally, we’ll mention that the Sistine Chapel boasts not one but two of the most famous works of art in the world: Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes and his later work, Last Judgement . We simply don’t have the space to share any more accolades, so check out our thorough guide to the Sistine Chapel .

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