colosseum & roman forum guided tour

Semi-Private Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Get special access to the underground dungeons and arena floor on this guided semi-private tour.

Did you know that only a fraction of Colosseum visitors can get tickets to see the incredible underground tunnels? As an active archaeological site with extremely limited access, tickets must be booked a month in advance and demand is high. This Colosseum tour lets you see the Underground, Arena Floor, and first and second tiers of the Colosseum. We're the leading provider Colosseum Underground tours, but even our tickets sell out fast so don't hesitate to book for your upcoming trip to Rome!

• Meet your guide outside the Colosseum Metro Stop
• Colosseum Underground
• Arena Floor
• 2nd level Colosseum
• Roman Forum
• Arch of Titus
• House of the Vestal Virgins
• Temple of Julius Caesar
• Temple Antoninus Pius
• Arch of Septimius Severus
• Palatine Hill
• End inside Roman Forum

Our Underground tours have limited availability this season. If it's sold out on the day of your trip to Rome, we recommend booking our popular Arena Floor tour that gives you access to the area where gladiators once fought!

Meet your expert local guide and semi-private group of 7 near the Colosseo metro stop, and get ready for the ultimate journey into ancient Rome! The Roman Colosseum is a must-see attraction in Rome, but not many visitors are lucky enough to get hold of exclusive Colosseum Underground tickets. As one of the few companies who have access to these coveted tickets, our Colosseum Underground tour sells out fast. This tour gives you the Underground and so much more—you'll also gain behind-the-scenes access to the reconstructed Arena Floor, enjoy the views from the first and second tiers, take a guided stroll through the Roman Forum, and climb the Palatine Hill.

Semi-Private Colosseum Underground Tour Description

Your exclusive 3.5-hour tour includes:

Colosseum Underground tickets

Access to the Arena Floor and Gladiator's Gate

Guided tour of the Colosseum with 1st and 2nd tiers

A guided tour of the Roman Forum with skip-the-line tickets

Walking tour of Palatine Hill

An expert English-speaking guide

A maximum group size of 7

After booking this epic underground tour, you’ll hear from our friendly Travel Experts who’ll ask for your name and birthday. Each ticket is reserved specifically for you since you're a VIP. Don’t forget to bring your ID to the Colosseum to confirm your ticket!

Please note that depending on the assigned entry time for the Colosseum, your tour might enter the Roman Forum first and end in the Colosseum. This product includes an entry ticket to the Colosseum + Arena + Underground, Forum and Palatine, for which our cost is 24 Euro per person.

The Colosseum Underground and Dungeons

Used for storing slaves and animals, the Hypogeum (or Underground) featured two levels and an entire network of Colosseum tunnels underground. This is where gladiators, wild animals, and the condemned awaited their gruesome fate. Led by a professional English-speaking guide, explore this behind-the-scenes area of the Colosseum, where an active archaeological dig is still going on.

As you walk around this incredible part of the Colosseum, your guide will tell stories of the likely uses of the chambers and dungeons that once hid underneath the original Arena Floor.

Arena Floor and Gladiator's Gate

Ascending to floor level, you'll step back in time as you trace the footsteps of warriors through the imposing Gate of Death (or the gladiator's gate) and out onto the reconstructed Arena Floor. This is the heart of the Colosseum and where the savage games took place.

Visit the opening to the reconstructed trap door and hear your guide describe the wild animals and battles that once fought here to the delight of ancient Roman society. It's a unique chance to imagine the fear and adrenaline that competitors must have felt so many years ago with the deafening screams of 60,000 spectators.

First and Second Levels of the Colosseum

As part of your guided tour, you'll also visit the first and second levels of the Colosseum. The views from these parts of the arena provide an excellent opportunity for photos. Your guide will tell you more about the brutal games the Colosseum spectators once witnessed, as well as the rich and influential Romans who watched from high in the stands.

All our tour guides are experts in the archaeology and history behind the historic sites we visit, including the Colosseum. Learn why "Colosseum" is just a nickname, why women didn't sit with men, and perhaps even the modern device that kept everyone protected from the sun.

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

After your in-depth Colosseum tour, you'll talk the short walk to the Roman Forum for a guided tour with skip-the-line tickets. This was once the beating heart of ancient Rome, and you can imagine daily Roman life unfolding as you walk through the ruins of the Temple of Julius Caesar, the Arch of Titus, the Roman Senate House, and much more. Your guide will bring it all back to life with tales of Mark Antony, Cleopatra, Caesar, and more.

Sandwiched between the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus, your final stop the historic Palatine Hill—a place we like to think of as the Beverly Hills of ancient Rome. This awe-inspiring area of towering pine trees, majestic ruins, and unparalleled views were where Romulus was said to have founded the city in 753 BC. This is also where Rome's emperors lived in opulent luxury.

Don't miss out on this unique Colosseum Underground tour—tickets sell out fast!

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What you get with this tour

See what people are saying

994 total reviews

Amazing Colosseum experience

What an amazing tour this was! Our tour guide was so friendly and knowledgeable and really painted the picture of what life would have been like. Highly recommend this tour.

Outstanding, fun, full of information

Marianna was our beautiful, charming and passionate guide who brought the Coloseum to life for our small group. She effortlessly overcame any challenges and brought a smile to everyone she encountered. We learned sooo much and the underground area of the Coloseum was mind blowing. We were lucky also to enter the Emperor's wife Livia's house and every few steps there was something interesting. We just loved it all!

Semi-Private Colosseum Tour the way to go!

The semi-private Colosseum tour with underground is the way to go. Our guide was great and it was truly a VIP experience. With thousands of people at the Colosseum we were the only 7 people taken through a private gate and into the underground. VIP treatment continued on the main floor with a private roped off walkway to the arena floor. Our group of 7 all agreed this was one of the main highlights of our Italy trip.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Please make sure to bring your passport or government ID! We also recommend comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Bring sunscreen and a water bottle for hot summer months.

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

This tour includes walking on uneven terrain for most of the tour. If you have any doubts about your mobility, we suggest booking a Colosseum private tour so your needs can be better accommodated.

What happens if it rains?

We run our Colosseum tours rain or shine. If rainfall is extremely heavy, the Colosseum management will sometimes close the restricted areas for safety reasons. If the restricted areas are closed, we will offer an €18 refund to compensate for missing these areas, but we'll still take you inside the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum.

Can my tour be canceled or moved to a different day?

Yes, it is possible. Colosseum Underground tours are very exclusive and are subject to changes, but we’re experts in this field and have staff dedicated to ensuring the best possible customer experience. If we are unable to acquire tickets on your behalf, we will let you know at least 14 days before your tour date, in which case we'll add you to a comparable tour or offer a full refund.

Is it possible The Tour Guy will change this tour time?

Yes, it is very likely to happen due to the exclusive nature of this tour. We recommend you keep your entire day open to accommodate your new tour time. Be sure to monitor your email as we will contact you at least 14 days before the tour with any new start time.

Why do you need my full name and birthday?

The Colosseum management recently changed their rules, which means tickets will be reserved specifically for the actual ticket holder. We'll use your name and birthday to reserve a ticket just for you, so don't forget to bring your passport or ID to the Colosseum to confirm your ticket!

Does this tour let me skip the line?

Yes! You'll avoid the main admission line to access the Colosseum via a separate entrance with your guide. You'll also skip the line at the Roman Forum.

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Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award: Top 10 Experiences – Italy

Our tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill provides the ideal way to experience the entirety of Ancient Rome's fascinating history by exploring three of its most monumental and iconic landmarks. Accompanied by our expert tour guide, you will enjoy a full exploration of ancient Rome's legacy – a large part of it centered around the world’s largest standing Amphitheatre, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

• Experience world-renowned visits to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill , all three cherished by travelers from all corners of the globe. Our Colosseum tours are meticulously designed to provide travelers with maximum immersion and the best possible experience.
• Choose the group size that best suits your preferences and the size of your party – Group Tour (up to 24 participants), our Small Group Tour (up to 15 participants), or a Semi-Private Experience (capped to 10 participants).
• Our expert guides will bring all three venues further back to life with captivating stories and insight. Audio headsets are always provided to ensure you catch every detail against the Colosseum’s epic backdrop.

Your Rome Colosseum Tour Starts Here

What's included.

• Expert, English-speaking Tour Guide
• Group Size of Your Choice (24, 15, or 10 participants)
• Access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
• Includes Standard Colosseum Entry (18€)
• Dedicated audio headsets so you don't miss a thing

Sites Visited

• Roman Forum & the “Via Sacra”
• Palatine Hill with views overlooking the Forum

Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill with our seasoned guides, who have been providing travelers with unparalleled insights into these historic sites for nearly two decades. The fascinating stories and insight they to tell will bring the ancient amphitheater and its ruins further back to life. With our classic itinerary, you'll enjoy a seamless journey through Rome's iconic sites, on a tour that you simply cannot leave the ancient city without first experiencing.

Step inside the Colosseum

We start our adventure at the beating heart of Rome’s ancient glory – the Colosseum. One of the world’s most iconic sights, the Colosseum tends to be the first stop for travelers visiting Rome. But beyond its architectural grandeur lies a rich abundance of stories - tales of gladiators, emperors, and the pulse-pounding dramas that unfolded within its walls.

Our guides, steeped in the lore of history and archaeology, are your keyholders to this captivating world. They'll shatter the Hollywood myths seen in popular films like “Gladiator,” revealing the true essence of the Colosseum and its storied past right before your eyes.

Discover the true birthplace of Rome – Palatine Hill

While the Colosseum often steals the spotlight, few realize that its neighboring sites - the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill - are equally integral to Rome's history. Our tours ensure you don't miss a beat by showing you the full breadth of the entire ancient landscape. After all, it’s at Palatine Hill where the true birthplace of Rome lies. In the continued company of our expert guides, you'll traverse the slopes of Palatine Hill, listening to tales of myth and history that echo through the ages.

Wander through the ruins of the Roman Forum

Lastly, our tour takes you to the Roman Forum – the heart of the Roman Republic that inspired many modern democracies. Once home to a bustling marketplace, the Roman Forum was once viewed as the pinnacle of the city. Here, politicians held rallies, soldiers marched triumphantly down the Via Sacra, and the Vestal Virgins even decided if men lived or died.

An Essential Experience When in Rome

In just three hours, we’ll introduce you to the best that Ancient Rome has to offer – from the birth of an Empire in 753 BC to the clash of titans at the Colosseum during Rome's stint as the ancient world's superpower. With our comprehensive and expertly guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, you will leave ancient Rome not just happy and informed, but truly immersed in the city’s undoubted beauty and rich history.

Find the perfect Colosseum tour tailored to your interests and preferences by exploring our full catalogue of  Colosseum tours .

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Important Notes

• Every customer on this tour is required to present a valid government issued ID or Passport at the Colosseum, that matches their name on the reservation, or entry will be refused. Name changes are not permitted once the booking is confirmed.
• Please note that the itinerary for our tours may differ from the advertised order of destinations. We assure you that any changes made to the tour itinerary are carefully planned and intended to enhance your overall experience.
• On this tour, some of the venues or parts of the venue may be subject to last-minute, unpredictable closures. When this occurs, we are happy to offer customers an extended tour in keeping with the advertised total length of the tour.

Cancelation Policy

Colosseum tours can be refunded or amended free of charge by contacting our Customer Service Team up to 96 hours (4 days) before your tour start time.

• Book Direct: Best prices always guaranteed.
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
• No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.

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The 5 best guided colosseum tours of 2024.

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

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

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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 – which means it's not easy to escape the crowds. A visit to see the world's largest amphitheater – once known as the Flavian Amphitheater – is well worth it, though.

Inside the ancient complex, there is very little signage explaining what you're looking at, which is why tours are a popular way to explore. A good tour will not only get you skip-the-line access but also bring this incredible place 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 hypogeum (Colosseum underground), you need to make sure it's included in the tour.

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• Best for Families: LivTours – The Best of Colosseum & Ancient Rome With Exclusive Arena Access

Best Nighttime: Rome Tours – Colosseum Night Tour

Best overall: city wonders – colosseum & ancient rome tour with roman forum & palatine hill.

Price: From $42.86 per person Duration: 3 hours

This comprehensive tour covers the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum and the Via Sacra (Sacred Street), and tourgoers are given headsets so they can better hear and follow their guide. Recent reviewers praise the expert guides, saying they are knowledgable about the history of the Colosseum (as well as the entrances with the shortest lines). Reviewers also appreciate the pace of the tour.

When booking, you have the option to choose your group size – 24, 15 or 10 participants – and tour rates vary accordingly. City Wonders also offers tours of the Vatican Museums , as well day trips to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast and more.

Check prices & availability on:

Price: From $87.25 per person Duration: 3 hours

This highly rated tour provides access to the underground of the Colosseum, where you'll discover the network of passages, cells and chambers that once served as the backstage area of the arena. Along the way, you'll hear about the behind-the-scenes preparations of gladiators and wild animals; then, you'll explore the arena floor, imagining what it was like for them 2,000-some years ago. Finally, you'll spend some time at the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Recent visitors highly recommend this tour, noting the underground portion made their visit to the Colosseum extra special.

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

Courtesy of Roma Experience

Price: From 499 euros per person (about $548) Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes

For a deeper understanding of the Colosseum, a private tour with Elisa Valeria Bove, CEO of Roma Experience, is one of the best you can take. As an archaeologist, Bove has been involved in excavations at the Roman Forum and other historic sites. Her Colosseum tour typically includes the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, the Arch of Constantine, Via Sacra and the House of Vestal Virgin. Be sure to specify if you want to visit the hypogeum (Colosseum underground) 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.

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

Courtesy of LivTours

Price: Adults from 139 euros (about $153); kids from $124 (about $136) Duration: 3 hours

Recent visitors praise the guides on this tour for bringing the stories about ancient Rome to life and entertaining everyone along the way — kids included.

Upon booking this tour, 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 note that it can be difficult to hear the guide over the noise in the Colosseum.

Price: From $60.46 per person Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours

A nighttime tour of the Colosseum not only affords an opportunity to see the famous landmark aglow, but it also allows visitors to avoid some of the crowds and high temps that come with a daytime visit. Recent tourgoers say they enjoyed the tour for these reasons, also noting that the guides are excellent. However, many wish the tour were a bit longer (or priced cheaper considering its short duration). The tour does not cover the Roman Forum or Palatine Hill.

Evening departure times vary by time of year.

Rome Tours offers a variety of other tours throughout the city, from a comprehensive daytime tour of the Colosseum to a bar crawl .

Frequently Asked Questions

Most tours last about three hours and require that you arrive at your departure point early. Factoring in transportation time, you'll want to allot at least a half-day of your vacation itinerary for the Colosseum.

The best time to visit the Colosseum is from November through February during the offseason (and when temperatures are cooler).

There isn't a dress code for the Colosseum, so plan to simply wear comfortable, seasonally appropriate attire (and know that summers in Rome can be extremely hot). No matter when you go, comfortable walking shoes are a must.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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+39 055 5321180

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• Colosseum & Roman Forum
• Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour

Walking Tour

Colosseum and Roman Forum Guided tour in English

Discover the Colosseum on this exciting tour led by an official guide . Includes skip-the-line ticket to the Colosseum!

Approx. 3 hours

Electronic voucher, voucher on mobile phone or tablet voucher accepted

Reserved enytrance to the Colosseum is included

Not available.

+39 055 5321180 (Mon-Fri 8:30 am -6:30 pm/ Sat-Sun 8:30 am -4:30 pm)

Description of your booking

This reservation to visit the Colosseum allows you to access one of the most visited monuments in the world, limiting waiting times at the ticket office to a minimum and to visit the Flavian Amphitheater listening to the explanation of an expert and official guide. The tour takes place inside the monument and lasts approximately 45 minutes Book your visit online, choose the date and time of entry to the Colosseum. You will immediately receive a copy of the order you placed via email. Your ticket will be emailed to you at a later time. If you place your order after 4pm, you will have to wait until the next morning to receive your ticket or to receive an email from us informing you when you will receive the voucher. Once you have passed the turnstiles, you will have to go through security checks at the metal detector while waiting for your turn. There will be a guide waiting for you and you will begin the guided tour together with other visitors. The tour takes place in Italian.

You will be able to visit the other two archaeological sites with the same ticket, on the same day even before having entered the Colosseum.

Attention, the time you booked refers to the Colosseum. Maximum punctuality is recommended. Show up at least 15/20 minutes early to enter the Colosseum. If you arrive late you will lose the right to use the ticket and you will not be able to obtain a refund.

Areas accessible with this ticket - Inside the Colosseum you can visit the amphitheater and walk along the corridor of the first and second tier of boxes. Inside you can take photos and make videos.

To facilitate your visit and better orient yourself during the entire journey, in addition to the guide who will accompany you during the journey to the Colosseum, you will also receive with the ticket a guide in pdf format which describes not only the Colosseum but also the Roman Forum and the area of the Palatine Hill.

What is included

- One entrance to the Colosseum - One entrance to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill - Reserved entrance to the Colosseum - Official guide - Guided tour of the Colosseum - Access to the First and Second Tier of the Colosseum

What is not included

- Acces to the Underground Area and the Arena - Access to the Third, Fourth and Fifth Tier - Quick Access to the Roman Forum - Access to the Palatine Museum

Italy Travels is not responsible for any partial closure of rooms, itinerary changes, cancellations or delays in entry due to force meajure, adverse weather, personnel strikes, or decisions made by the management of the museum or the Superintendency.

Children 4-12 years old

Children under 3 years old

The prices of this package include: reserved access to the Colosseum, professional guide service for approximately 3 hours, guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Cancellation Policy

Entry tickets to the Colosseum, once booked,  may not be changed in any way or canceled . Visitors who come after the time printed on the voucher or are no-shows will not have access to the site and will receive no refund, even partial. Once booked, these tickets cannot be changed. We, therefore, suggest you pay very close attention during the online booking process when choosing the date, time, and type of tickets.

Every day. Starting time varies during the year, please see the calendar and select the date of the visit to learn more about daily starting times. Closed on 1 January and 25 December.

Where is located the Colosseum and the Roman Forum

Instructions to meet your guide are printed on the voucher that will be sent by email to confirm booking and vary based on the type of booking. Meeting point : meet the tour leader in front of the "Arco di Costantino" looking at the Colosseum from the short side of the arch. Please arrive 15 minutes before the tour starting tme. Piazza del Colosseo - Rome Metro: Line B Colosseo Stop Bus: n.75 - 81 - 673 - 175 - 204 Tram: no. 3

Useful Info

Backpacks, suitcases, or large bags may not be brought in the sites. The ticket allows you to access to each site only once. The time given with the booking is for the Colosseum. You must go through security checks at the metal detectors. The wait for these mandatory procedures cannot be avoided. Do not forget to bring a valid identification card or valid passport (one per person).

Our guides in Rome

taly Travels tour guides staff is represented by licensed guides of great experience and high level of professionalism, competence and excellence on their job. All Italy Travels guides are authorized by the provincial administration of Rome and most of them are art historians and teachers in art subjects. All guided tours organized by Italy Travels always include pre-reserved museum tickets when museum tours are included in the tour itinerary. In this way visitors avoid waisting time waiting in line in front of museums ticket offices.

What you will see with this tour of the Colosseum

This tour is also called Ancient Rome Guided tour. The reason is that this Colosseum Tour represents the most complete experience you can book to visit the archaeological area of ​​the Colosseum. First of all, this Colosseum tour includes a comprehensive visit of the monument symbol of Rome. The Flavio Amphitheatre is the other name of the Colosseum. Visitors enter the roman amphitheatre through a priority entrance skipping the line at the ticket office. The expert, licensed guide comments the monument architecture, explains how it was built, how it looked like in the past and what was its main, original function. Secondly the group moves to the Palatine Hill . The tour is run on foot. Actually, the three sites included in the tour are located very close one to another. While moving from one site to another, the guide comments the roman ruins which are standing on the way. Actually, the Colosseum is situated along Via dei Fori Imperiali. This special location represented the political and economic centre of the ancient Rome. Each emperor built his imperial forum to celebrate his power. For this reason, today it is possible to admire these splendid ruins, one after the other, along the Via dei Fori Imperiali. Moreover, the tour includes a stop in front of the Arch of Constantine . This monument is one of the most beautiful triumphal arches of the Roman time. In fact the Arch of Constantine is richly decorated with precious low reliefs depicting the exploits of Constantine’s war victories. Finally this Colosseum Tour ends at the Roman Forum . The Roman Forum is the most important forum of this area. Inside visitors can admire many roman ruins: temples, obelisks, capitals, statues, funeral monuments and so on. Above all, another triumphal arch, the Arch of Titus .

Colosseum & Roman Forum Guided Tour

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About the colosseum and roman forum.

How to visit the Colosseum in Rome

Colosseum: when I can visit it - Opening time

Opinions of this experience, faq - everything you need to know to visit the colosseum in rome.

Which ticket offices are for the whole Colosseum area?

There are three ticket offices: one for the Colosseum, one for the Roman Forum, and one for the Arch of Titus. All entry instructions are printed on the voucher.

How long does it take to visit the Colosseum?

One hour is enough to visit the Colosseum area. If you also want to visit the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill (access to these two sites is included in the Colosseum ticket), consider taking a half day. If you prefer, you can visit these two sites the following day as well. Once inside the Colosseum, you can stay inside until it closes.

How long is the line for visitors without reservations for the Colosseum?

It can depend on the day and the season, but the line for people without reservation is usually hours long.

Can photos or videos be taken inside the Colosseum?

Yes, they may, but only for personal use and without professional cameras. Photos and videos cannot be disseminated for professional use.

Until what age are tickets free of charge for the Colosseum?

From 0 to 18, tickets are free of charge but must be reserved as under-18 tickets. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Can we eat inside the Colosseum?

No, you cannot eat inside the Colosseum and there is no café or bar inside.

What can I see with ordinary Colosseum ticket?

With an ordinary, skip-the-line Colosseum ticket, you may visit the first and second tier and the internal corridors. You may not access the underground area, the upper tiers, from the third to the fifth tiers, or the Arena. The Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill may be visited with the same ticket.

Does the Colosseum entrance ticket also give access to other areas?

Yes, it also gives access to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.

Can I visit the Roman Forum first and then the Colosseum?

If you have a reserved ticket, you must enter the Colosseum, checking in at least 15 minutes before your reserved time. After visiting the Colosseum, you may also visit the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill with the same ticket within the following 48 hours from your entrance to the Colosseum. The other two sites are generally less crowded.

Does the entrance ticket to the Colosseum include temporary exhibitions?

If there are temporary exhibitions inside the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, the ticket you reserved is valid to visit them as well.

Do I need to print the Colosseum voucher?

Reservations with only full adults tickets can be shown on your cell phone without printing it out. For bookings that include reduced or free tickets, the electronic voucher cannot be used. You must print a hard copy of the voucher sent to you by email and show the print-out at the ticket office where documents will be checked for visitors who have reduced or free tickets.

From which entrance should I enter?

You may enter into the monument through the main entrance of the Colosseum through the gate reserved to individual visitors with skip-the-line, reserved tickets. All instructions you need are fully detailed on the voucher/ticket you receive by email. Please read instructions attentively.

Are there discounts for families at the Colosseum?

No, there are not.

Do I pre-pay the Colosseum, skip-the-line tickets?

Yes, the tickets are paid in advance.

Is there a separate entrance for people with reservations at the Colosseum?

Yes, there is an entrance only for visitors with reservation.

What is the Colosseum Open Ticket?

The Colosseum Open Ticket is a solution that allows the visitor to arrive at the Colosseum without a precise scheduled entrance time. This entrance is allowed only in the afternoon, at any time after 2:00 pm. If the Colosseum is completely full at that time, (more than 3,000 visitors inside, which is the Colosseum’s maximum capacity), you will need to wait for some visitors to leave the monument.

Can I access the Underground Area of the Colosseum with the ordinary entrance ticket?

No, you may not. The Underground Area can only be accessed by booking a special guided tour.

Do people over 65 years old have any reduced prices to the Colosseum?

No, they must reserve the full price ticket.

Do teachers have reduced prices to the Colosseum?

European Union State teachers can reserve the reduced price tickets. EU University Teachers of Architecture, Conservation of Cultural Heritage, Archaeology or Art History can enter reserving a free ticket, the same ticket for those under 18 years old.

Do journalists have free entrance to the Colosseum?

Journalists in the Italian National Register or any other journalist from a foreign country, exclusively for work purposes and showing a valid document proving their professional qualifications, have free entrance if they go directly at the entrance and stand in line. If they wish to avoid the line, they can select the under -8 price ticket on our site.

Once the voucher has been issued, can I change the date and/or time of my visit to the Colosseum?

No. Once the voucher has been issued, it may no longer be modified. This is a museum rule. For this reason, we suggest you pay attention during the reservation procedure and make sure you have chosen the correct date and entrance time. The Open ticket is the only reservation that can be modified up to 24 hours before the date of the visit with no penalty.

May the reservation to the Colosseum be canceled?

The reservation to the Colosseum cannot be canceled. If the ticket is not used, no refund will be given, even if medical certificates are presented.

Is there luggage storage at the Colosseum?

No, there isn’t.

Can I enter the Colosseum with a stroller?

No, you may not.

Can I enter the Colosseum with my dog?

No, you may not. Only service dogs are allowed. In these cases, we ask you to send an e-mail before you submit an on-line reservation as specific authorization must be asked in advance.

Can I bring liquids inside the Colosseum?

No. For security reasons, you may not enter the Colosseum with plastic or glass bottles, alcoholic beverages, or spray cans.

Is there an elevator at the Colosseum?

The ground floor of the Colosseum is accessible to disabled visitors and the first floor is accessible by elevators.

Is the Colosseum accessible for visitors in wheelchairs?

Yes. There are special entrances but the entire monument is not accessible. The Roman Forum is partly accessible.

Are there wheelchairs available at the Colosseum?

Two wheelchairs are available at the Colosseum, one for the ground floor and one for the first floor. Their availability cannot be guaranteed, and they cannot be reserved in advance.

Does the person accompanying the disabled person have to pay? Does s/he have to reserve?

Both the disabled person and their accompanying person can go directly to the ticket office with the disability certification and do not need to reserve a skip-the-line ticket.

Can I pay for the tickets I buy online by bank transfer?

Yes, making sure that the date of the visit is not too close, as the bank transfer may take 2/3 days to arrive. Please consider that during high season, Colosseum availability may change frequently and can be sold out in a short time. Your reservation is only processed when the bank transfer has arrived in the agency’s bank account.

If I cannot print the Colosseum voucher, can I get it at my hotel?

Sure. In order to do so, you can write the name of your hotel in Rome in the ‘Note’ field of your on-line reservation form and specify you want to receive a copy of the voucher there. This lets us contact you there for urgent communication or to fax your voucher.

Do I need to make a reservation for a school trip to the Colosseum?

Yes, in this case, you should send an e-mail with all details and requests to our reservation office. The e-mail address is: [email protected].

Can I book a guide service at the Colosseum?

Yes, guided tours and tours with private guides can be booked. Please have a look at our guided tour offers here, COLOSSEUM GUIDED TOURS

How much does a guided tour of the Colosseum cost?

Rates depend on the type of the tour you reserve, the duration, and the itinerary.

How much is a tour with a private guide of the Colosseum?

A private tour of the Colosseum for two people in English starts at €240.00. Price may change depending on the season, the language, and the number of the visitors. Special extra charges are added if the tour takes place during the night or on holiday dates. For any other info, we suggest you visit our site www.museumsrome.com or write an email to [email protected].

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Colosseum Guided Tour

Best colosseum tours.

About Colosseum Tour

Since 80 AD, the Colosseum of Rome has been a symbol of the city and is considered one of Italy’s, if not the world’s, top monuments. Approximately 50,000 spectators gathered in the amphitheater’s tiered seats to relish the gladiatorial games. Over the years, parts of its original marble facade were pilfered to build the likes of St. Peter’s Basilica,  despite this the Colosseum remains remarkably intact today after 2,000 years .

The Colosseum is the second most popular attraction in Italy, after the Vatican, and hosts millions of visitors every year. What exactly does this mean? It means that ticket lines and large crowds will be practically unavoidable.  Without special access to skip-the-line tour tickets , there’s virtually no chance of entering the Colosseum without hassle or a long wait in line. That’s why a Colosseum guided tour is the ideal way to visit the monument. You can enjoy the history of the monument while strolling with an experienced guide. Best of all, you won’t have to wait in line for tickets.

There are a number of Colosseum tour options available for you to choose from. These tours are suited to any age or interest. Examples include a Colosseum underground tour that has a network of passages and is explored straight beneath the arena floor. You can also explore the third tier of the Colosseum with a small-group guided tour. Perhaps a Colosseum night tour that offers relief from the daytime heat along with an eerie experience is what you are looking for. No matter what type of Colosseum guided tour you choose,  walking into the Colosseum without waiting in line will put a smile on your face .

You can also choose your Colosseum guided tour according to your preference from group tours, private tours, and self-guided audio tours to gain an understanding of this well-preserved Roman monument and its historical significance.

Tour Highlights

Skip The Line Colosseum Tour

• Skip long entrance lines and walk right into the most prominent attraction of Rome - with the Colosseum guided tour you will be accompanied by a local expert guide and a small group . 
• There are two levels of the Colosseum that you will explore while your guide entertains you with anecdotes and details about the gladiators and emperors that once filled the monument.
• Ancient history becomes more enjoyable to listen to and understand when explained by a dedicated and passionate guide.
• If you choose the Colosseum virtual tour you will get to see what the structure looked like during its glory days.

A walk through Ancient Rome 

• In addition to fast-track entry during the Colosseum guided tour, you'll skip the entrance lines with special access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill through your Roman Forum tickets. 
• Upon entering you will find masterpieces of ancient architecture like palaces, temples, monuments and markets. These are the same streets that were once frequently walked by great historical figures like Julius Caesar. 
• Your guide’s wealth of knowledge will transport you back in time and display the hidden scenes behind the ruins that are otherwise so hard to interpret.
• Exploring the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with the Colosseum virtual tour is an experience like no other. This is the only way to really appreciate the true grandeur and scale that once was.

Easy Breezy

• Every member of the guide team is always excited about sharing their historical insights on Ancient Rome and is an expert in their field. 
• With a small group size the tour guide can easily maneuver the group and individual headsets keep participants easily engaged with what the guide has to say. 
• With the Colosseum guided tour you will experience the remnants of discovery, decay and rise.

Visitor Highlights

There are special Colosseum tours available for visitors every day. You can just choose the guided tour and time that is best suited to you, buy the special access ticket and skip the line at the entrance. This way you can save time to explore the rest of Rome. 

Exploring the archeological area with a Colosseum tour guide is undoubtedly the best way to make the most of your visit. Without the knowledge of a local expert, you could possibly walk right past something of historical significance and never know it.

By taking a Colosseum guided tour, you’ll get a better sense of the Colosseum Amphitheatre and an insight into its many uses. Along with this, you’ll also learn many interesting facts about the historic site. 

Upon the choice of your guided Colosseum tours, the timing will vary from 1.5 to 3 hours. Depending on the route that the tour follows, it may be possible (depending on Covid-19 restrictions) to stay inside the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill after the tour has concluded. 

A Colosseum audio guide is also a great option for travellers that do not have enough time for a Colosseum guided tour. With an audio guide, you can visit the Colosseum at your own pace and still enjoy the fascinating history.

Colosseum tour guides are experts in their field and passionate about sharing their knowledge. Experiencing Ancient Rome with a guide will definitely be one of the highlights of your time in Rome.

No matter which option you choose - Colosseum guided tour or Colosseum audio guide - you will be exploring 2,000+ years of history. Immersing yourself in Ancient Roman culture is the only way to truly appreciate and understand the glory of the Roman Empire.

Except January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th, the Colosseum tours are available all year round.

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 meeting point for the Colosseum guided tour.
• 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.
• 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 Colosseum tour.
• It is highly recommended to get your tickets ahead of time online and set aside the majority of your day to properly enjoy the Colosseum visit.
• The Colosseum tour prices vary and can cost anywhere from 30€ up to 100€, or more. The type of tour you choose - express, underground, arena - 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

What to bring:

Weather-appropriate clothing

Comfortable shoes

Passport or ID card

Arena entrance & Reduced price tickets:

As the Colosseum Arena Floor is a restricted area, visitors will have to provide details such as their full name, date of birth, and a valid ID card as they’re entering the monument.

People who have booked tickets at the reduced price for ages 2 to 15 years old will also be required to show an ID.

Things that are not allowed:

Aerosol sprays

Any kind of weapons or sharp objects.

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.