Colosseum Guided Tour

Plan Your Visit
The Colosseum is the most visited and surely the most popular monument in Rome, in the whole of Italy in fact. It is the icon of the ancient Roman Empire and of the modern city today, much like the Eiffel tower in Paris. In its day, it was a symbol of prestige and the power, might and (savagery) of the ancient Romans.

January 2 to February 15 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM February 16 to March 15 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM March 16 to last Saturday of March 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Last Sunday of March to August 318:30 AM – 6:15 PM September 1 to September 30 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM October 1 to last Saturday of October 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM Last Sunday of October to December 318:30 AM – 3:30 PM

● Large bags/backpacks or any kind of wheeled/roller bags ● Glass containers/bottles ● Weapons (including pocket knives) ● Aerosol sprays

Booking tickets in advance for the Colosseum is highly recommended to avoid long lines and ensure entry to this iconic attraction. By purchasing tickets beforehand, you can secure your preferred date and time slot, allowing for a smoother and more efficient visit. Additionally, booking in advance often offers the convenience of skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass queues and make the most of your time exploring the Colosseum and its surroundings. With advanced ticket booking, you can look forward to a seamless and enjoyable visit to one of Rome's most renowned landmarks.

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The Colosseum in Rome has a long history that dates back to ancient times. It was built around 70-80 AD by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty. This massive amphitheater was used for various events, including gladiator fights, animal hunts, and mock naval battles. It could hold up to 80,000 spectators.

The Colosseum's design is impressive, showcasing ancient Roman engineering. It's a large oval-shaped structure with four levels, standing around 48 meters tall. Built using limestone, concrete, and bricks, it has three tiers of arches decorated with different types of columns. The lower part has Doric columns, the middle Ionic, and the upper Corinthian. With ramps, stairs, and tunnels, it allowed easy movement for people and animals during events. This clever design made it efficient for spectators to enter and leave, and for shows to be staged, highlighting the Romans' skill in architecture.

At night, the Colosseum lights up, looking majestic and enchanting against the dark sky. It's a captivating sight, reminding us of its thrilling history. People enjoy its beauty and the peaceful atmosphere around it. Viewing the Colosseum at night is a magical experience, connecting us to ancient Rome's rich past.

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Experience authentic Roman cuisine while in Rome. Despite the city's upscale dining options, nothing beats the flavour of street food. Seek out spots frequented by locals, a sign of delicious and high-quality fare.

Many restaurants in Rome automatically include a service charge in your bill to compensate the waitstaff. However, if you're particularly pleased with the service or if the bill doesn't include a service charge, it's customary to leave a 10% tip.

Wearing comfortable shoes in Rome is essential for exploring its charming streets and historical sites without discomfort. With countless attractions to discover on foot, comfortable footwear ensures you can enjoy the city's wonders.

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Join your friendly and knowledgeable guide with a small group to explore the highlights of Ancient Rome. Begin by heading to the impressive stadium, where you'll learn about its architecture and the Roman's love for games. Walk through the entrance and onto the arena floor, where gladiators once fought. After exploring the stadium, venture to the oldest part of Rome, Palatine Hill, where Emperors once lived in grand homes. Wander among the ruins, enjoying the serene surroundings and breathtaking views. Finally, descend into the Roman Forum, walking along ancient roads and marvelling at temples, offices, and the senate building.

Avoid waiting in line, gain insights into history, and marvel at the Colosseum and the Ancient City with the guidance of a knowledgeable local tour guide. Discover the rich history of these famous landmarks with your knowledgeable guide. Experience the grandeur of the Colosseum as you admire its impressive structure and learn about its past, including damage from earthquakes. Then, climb Palatine Hill to see amazing views and visit old ruins like the House of Augustus. Delve into the Roman Forum, once bustling with political activity and speeches. Marvel at architectural wonders like the Temple of Romulus. Throughout the tour, listen to captivating stories that offer fascinating insights into the history of Rome.

Experience the Colosseum and Roman Forum in a personalized and unforgettable way. A friendly and professional tour guide by your side will tailor your tour to your preferences. Explore the highlights of the Colosseum and Ancient Rome according to your interests and needs. Booking this tour ensures you bypass the crowds and enjoy a private entrance to the magnificent Colosseum. After meeting your guide at Trajan’s Column, you'll take a short walk through the Imperial Forum before entering the famous Roman Forum. Once you're in the archaeological site, your private guide will point out the most famous monuments, as well as the hidden gems that are often missed in larger tours.

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Visiting the Vatican in Rome is a must for its rich historical and spiritual significance. Housing the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church, it's a centre of global reverence. The Vatican Museums showcase a vast array of artistic treasures, including iconic works by Michelangelo and Raphael. The Sistine Chapel's mesmerizing frescoes, particularly Michelangelo's masterpiece on its ceiling, leave visitors spellbound. St. Peter's Basilica, with its awe-inspiring architecture and religious significance, is equally captivating.

Nestled in the heart of Rome, neighbourhoods like Trastevere and Monti offer visitors an authentic glimpse into the city's vibrant life and rich history. Trastevere, with its narrow cobblestone streets and colourful buildings, exudes a bohemian charm. This area is renowned for its bustling piazzas, lively trattorias, and lively nightlife. Monti, on the other hand, presents a more eclectic ambiance, blending ancient ruins with trendy boutiques and artisanal shops. Its labyrinthine alleys lead to hidden gems, quaint cafes, and artisan workshops, making it a haven for artists and creatives. Both neighbourhoods boast picturesque squares where locals gather, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls.

Every first Sunday of the month in Rome entry to state owned museums, galleries, parks, and some archaeological sites are free. Since it's the busiest day of the month, consider arriving early.

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Discover the wonders of

Colosseum

Unforgettable Experiences

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.

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.

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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

  • Water

  • Sunscreen

 

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:

 

  • Pets

  • Drones

  • Aerosol sprays

  • Any kind of weapons or sharp objects.

  • Luggage or large bags. Even smaller bags with wheels are not allowed.

  • 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.