Guided tour of the Colosseum

COLOSSEUM HISTORY

The Colosseum, or Flavian Amphitheatre, served as an entertainment venue in ancient Rome. Its function was to host gladiatorial combat,  a spectacular and deadly event. In addition to combat, it was used for other forms of macabre entertainment, like wild animal hunts, executions, and even mock naval battles. These events reflected Roman entertainment culture, which combined elements of spectacle and cruelty to entertain the masses. The Colosseum, with its imposing structure and capacity to accommodate tens of thousands of spectators, was the heart of public entertainment in ancient Rome

WHERE IS THE COLOSSEUM?

The Colosseum, located in the heart of Rome in Piazza del Colosseo, is one of the capital’s main tourist attractions and easily accessible from several areas of the city. If you’re staying in the center, you can reach it on foot or with a quick taxi. Alternatively, public transportation offers convenient access: the Metro line B or trains to Roma Termini are a great option. If you’re arriving from Rome Fiumicino Airport, you can take the Leonardo Express to Roma Termini and then a taxi or the Metro bus to the Colosseum stop, which will drop you off right in front of the amphitheater.

If you’re looking for a central location for your stay, there are several hotels near the Colosseum that can offer you a convenient and scenic experience. The Nerva Boutique Hotel, for example, is ideal for families and offers services such as child care and an airport shuttle, while the Palm Suites allows you to enjoy breathtaking views of the Colosseum from some of its rooms. Plus, if you’re planning a family vacation, our team of Italy travel experts are on hand to help you organize activities that are suitable for all ages, ensuring that every member of your family can enjoy the experience to the fullest.

HOW TO VISIT

One of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, the Colosseum opens its doors at 8:30 a.m. and offers a variety of seasonal closing times, ranging from 4:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. You can visit on your own, but a guided tour is sure to enhance the experience. Expert guides will not only walk you through the history of the monument, but will also reveal fun facts, details about the lives of gladiators, and the Colosseum’s stunning architecture. Additionally, many tours include access to restricted areas, such as the interior, and offer free time to explore on your own.

In addition to the Colosseum, some tours also combine visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, providing a comprehensive overview of ancient Rome. Booking a tour will allow you to have a more complete and informed experience, making your visit truly unique.

COLOSSEUM TICKETS

Buying tickets for the Colosseum in Rome offers several options, each suited to different needs and preferences.  Many visitors opt to purchase directly online through the official Colosseum website, which is recommended especially during high season. Tickets are released 30 days in advance and tend to sell out quickly, so it is important to buy in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak periods. Adult tickets start at €18, while children under 18 are free. Prices can vary depending on the type of ticket you choose, such as combined tickets that allow access to multiple sites, including the Colosseum underground area or other major attractions such as the Vatican.

“Skip the line” tickets

If you are short on time and want to avoid long waits, you can purchase “skip the line” tickets, which allow you to enter quickly and without wasting time in queues. This year, Rome is celebrating the Jubilee Year 2025, a religious event that attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists. With an increased influx of visitors, the city’s main attractions, including the Colosseum, may be even more crowded than usual. Therefore, it is highly recommended to purchase these kind of tickets well in advance

ANCIENT ROME & VATICAN TREASURE TOUR

The Ancient Rome and Vatican Treasures Tour is an unmissable experience that offers skip-the-line access to the Colosseum, allowing you to avoid long lines. In addition to visiting the Colosseum, the tour also includes a visit to the Imperial Forums and the Palatine Hill, where you can discover the thousand-year history of ancient Rome. But it doesn’t end there: the tour also takes you to the Vatican City,  where you will explore the renowned Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, admiring masterpieces such as Michelangelo‘s frescoes and other priceless works of art. Thanks to priority access, you will be able to enjoy these wonders without long lines, for a more pleasant and enriching experience

ROME COLOSSEUM ARENA TOUR

If your primary goal is an in-depth exploration of the Colosseum, this full-day tour is the perfect choice. An expert guide will accompany you for 45 minutes inside the amphitheater, taking you to more exclusive areas less frequented by tourist groups, offering you a unique and detailed perspective on the history and architecture of this ancient wonder. After the guided tour, you will have time to explore the Colosseum on your own, delving into every corner of the monument. Next, the tour continues to the Palatine Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome, famous for its imperial ruins and breathtaking views. Finally, you will head to the Roman Forum, where you can take incredible photographs among the ancient ruins, completing this historical adventure with unforgettable views.

BEST OF ROME 3 DAY TOUR

The Ancient Rome and Vatican Treasures Tour is a unique opportunity to explore some of the most iconic wonders of Rome and the Vatican City. In addition to offering skip-the-line access to the Colosseum, the tour allows you to discover the Roman amphitheater in depth, avoiding long lines. Afterwards, the tour continues with a visit to the Vatican Museums, one of the most extraordinary art collections in the world. You will be able to admire works of inestimable value, including the famous Sistine Chapel, with frescoes by Michelangelo. Thanks to this experience, you will have the opportunity to explore the artistic and historical beauties of both Ancient Rome and the treasures of the Vatican without stress.

COLOSSEUM UNDERGROUND, ROME FORUM, AND PALATINE HILL EXCLUSIVE

On this exclusive underground tour of the Colosseum, you will have the opportunity to explore places that most visitors never get the chance to see. You will be able to access the underground chambers, where animals were kept before battles, and discover fascinating details about the logistics and organization of the shows that animated the arena. You will also learn how this extraordinary amphitheater, a marvel of Roman engineering, was built.

In addition to the underground visit, the tour will take you to enjoy spectacular views of the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, offering a unique view of these historic archaeological areas that tell the story of the greatness of ancient Rome. An unforgettable experience that combines history, architecture and breathtaking landscapes.

BEST SPOTS FOR COLOSSEUM PHOTOS

To take unique photos of the Colosseum, there are several viewpoints that offer breathtaking and less crowded views, ideal for social media. Here are some of the best locations:

1. Colosseum Metro Station:

An incredible view of the Roman amphitheater, with an angle that allows you to capture the Colosseum in all its grandeur. The station itself, with its modern look and proximity to the monument, offers an original perspective.

2. Oppian Hill:

Climbing the cobblestone steps, you will have a panoramic view of the exterior of the Colosseum. This spot is perfect for photos that capture the monument in all its majesty, away from the crowds.

3. Opposite side of the Colosseum (Arch of Constantine):

Another interesting point is the Arch of Constantine, which offers a view of the Colosseum from a less common perspective. Here you can photograph the “cracks” and inclinations in the walls of the amphitheater, which tell its history and the wear and tear of time.

4. Palatine Hill:

Located further away on Palatine Hill, you can capture the Colosseum along with the Roman Forum. This spot offers spectacular views and is less crowded. However, to access it you will need to book a tour or pay to enter, but the view is absolutely worth it.

5.Interior of the Colosseum (Belvedere):

Once inside, the best shots are obtained from the belvederes. The higher you are, the easier it is to capture the grandeur of the Colosseum and the breadth of its structure.

6. Lesser-known and less crowded spots:

If you want to avoid the crowds and get original photos, consider the lesser-known spots, where few tourists venture. These will give you the opportunity to take unique images that few others will be able to get.

A tour that takes you off the beaten path will allow you to capture the Colosseum from exclusive angles and take unique photos that you will not easily find on other pages.

EXPLORE ROME’S RICH HISTORY WITH A PACKAGE TOUR

Visiting the Colosseum allows you to immerse in the history of Rome. To make your experience more special, booking one of our tours will give you access to exclusive benefits, such as skip-the-line access and the opportunity to discover photo spots, away from the crowds. These tours offer you a perspective of the Colosseum from a privileged angle.

If you want to explore the Eternal City in depth and plan to stay more than two days, our multi-day tours are the perfect choice. Whether you want to discover Rome in 3 days or opt for an adventure with 7, 10 or 14-day packages that also include other cities, like Capri or Tuscany, you will find the ideal option.

The packages include food tours and visits to iconic sites organized in a single ticket. Also, the accommodation is taken care of for you, allowing you to focus only on having fun and exploring, without logistical worries. All that’s left to do is pack your bags and set off on an adventure in Italy!