Colosseum, the iconic symbol of Rome is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Built between 70 and 50 AD by the emperors Vespasian and Titus, this massive structure narrates tales of history and valor. Today, it stands proudly in the heart of the city as a UNESCO World Heritage site and welcomes over 7 million guests every year.
This exceptional architectural marvel has several levels and various ticket options for touring. From standard ticket options and guided tours to special tickets like arena, underground, and VIP tours, there are a plethora of options. We will help you understand all the tickets and navigate all the floors of the Colosseum like a pro.
Pick your best match from our top-selling tickets to make the best out of your day at the heart of Roman history.
Best Colosseum Tickets
Who Are We?
TheColosseum-Tickets.com is your best source for authentic and official tickets. We are registered affiliates of trusted ticket partners, ensuring seamless booking and reliable customer support. As the leading ticket provider for top attractions like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, we make exploring ancient Rome easy and convenient.
With TheColosseum-Tickets.com you can get more than just the best tickets and deals! We are your comprehensive guide to everything Colosseum-related, helping you plan an unforgettable visit to one of the world’s greatest historical sites.
Why Trust Us?
100% Trusted Ticket Partners
Authentic Tickets
Simple Booking Process
Easy Refund Policy
Types of Colosseum Tickets and Tours
To have a nice and memorable visit to the famous Roman Colosseum, the first step is to book the right tickets and tours based on your interests and requirements. This colossal amphitheater is divided into separate areas and floors such as the Arena Floor, the underground, and the different tires of the Colosseum, and to access each of these areas, you must have a special access ticket because entry to these areas is not included in a basic admission ticket.
In this section, we’ll explain all the available Colosseum Rome Tickets types and tours along with their prices, and what they offer. In addition to this, we’ll also help you understand which option is best for you.
Colosseum skip-the-line tickets
These are the most basic and standard Colosseum admission tickets which include access to not only the Colosseum but also to Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. This is the cheapest ticket option to gain access to this famous historical amphitheater, which makes it one of the best-selling tickets among tourists as well as locals.
This standard ticket includes skip-the-line access, so you can skip the long queues and go straight into the Colosseum with priority. You can also choose to upgrade this ticket for arena floor access when purchasing online. This ticket also comes with assisted entry access whereby someone would take you through skip-the-line queues for a direct tour inside the Colosseum.
Finally, you’ll also receive an audio guide covering the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, providing insights into their history and significance. This is great for budget travelers or single travelers on a self-guided tour, who want to take the time and see the sites themselves.
Key Highlights:
- Assistance at the meeting point
- Audio guide app which you can download on your phone
- priority entry to the Colosseum
- Admission to the Roman Forum
- Access to Palatine Hill
Ticket Price: €24
Colosseum Arena Floor Tickets
The arena floor of the Colosseum is a central, flat area that was used to hold battles between gladiators or hunting animals, as well as other activities to be enjoyed by the public. Entry to this floor is not included in a basic entry ticket and requires a special Arena floor ticket to let a visitor inside this restricted part of the attraction.
This Arean floor ticket includes a live tour guide who will help you explore and understand the history behind the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and Arena floor. This ticket also includes priority entrance to all these attractions, so you can skip the lines and enter directly. This arena floor tour is available in four different languages: English, German, Spanish, and French, and enables you to choose between an ideal guide speaking your favorite tongue.
If you are a history buff, architecture student, or anyone who wishes to get a more detailed and immersive experience of the Colosseum, this ticket is the perfect choice for you.
Key Highlights:
- Access to Arena Floor
- Entry to Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
- Priority Fast-track entry
- Professional live tour guide
- Guided Tour
Ticket Price: €70
Colosseum Underground Tour
Beneath the floor of the Colosseum arena lies a sophisticated system of tunnels, rooms, and corridors called Hypogeum. This underground area served as backstage for ancient spectacles housing gladiators, wild animals, and stage props before elevating them to the arena.
To explore the Hypogeum area you will have to book an additional ticket or special tour as this area is not included in standard Colosseum entrance tickets. These exclusive tours will give you a unique experience with a professional guide, who will share fascinating stories and historical insights about the underground complex.
You will also get a reserved priority entrance with a hypogeum tour which will help you avoid long queues at the usual entrance. With this ticket, you will also have the opportunity to view not only the underground area but also all of the levels of the Roman Colosseum, which include the ground floor and second floor, plus special exhibitions that may be going on that particular day.
Key Highlights:
- Entrance to Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Skip-the-line admission to Colosseum
- Access to Arena Floor and Underground
- Entry to the second-tier and ongoing exhibition
- Nice quality headsets
Ticket Price: €119
Colosseum Night Tour
With the Colosseum Night Tour, you get a unique opportunity to explore the Colosseum after dark, when the monument is beautifully illuminated and the crowds are much smaller. As the night tour is completely different from the standard daytime visit, this experience lets you view the Colosseum in a calmer, less noisy atmosphere.
It involves visiting the Colosseum, including parts usually off-limits during the day, such as the underground hypogeum and parts of the arena floor. A professional guide will take you through these areas, sharing interesting stories and insights into the history, architecture, and events associated with the Colosseum.
The Colosseum Night Tour is offered in several languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German, so you will find a tour that fits your language preferences. This ticket is best for those who want to experience the Colosseum differently, appreciate the less crowded environment, or want to see it during the evening hours when it’s dramatically lit against the night sky.
Key Highlights:
- Entrance to Colosseum
- Skip the line entry
- Guided tour of Colosseum
- Golden Hour Visit
- Availability for Private group
Ticket Price: €75
Colosseum Guided Tour
A guided tour of the Colosseum is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the grandeur of this legendary Roman amphitheater. Led by an experienced professional guide, you’ll do more than just walk through its corridors – you’ll uncover fascinating stories, historical insights, and architectural marvels that bring the Colosseum’s rich history to life.
With this guided tour, you will explore more than just the amphitheater, gaining access to the famous Palatine Hill, Roman Foruman, and an open-air museum showcasing the heart of ancient Rome’s political, commercial, and religious life, often regarded as a highlight of the experience.
This guided tour also gives you the option to extend your visit to the arena floor as well, which used to be the battleground of the gladiators. However, you will have to choose this upgrade while making your online purchase.
Key Highlights:
- Admission & Guided Tour of Colosseum
- Entry to the Colosseum Arena (optional)
- Roman Forum and Palatine Hill entrance
- Headsets
Ticket Price: €119
Colosseum Private Tour
Private Tours of the Colosseum are a more personalized and upgraded version of the standard Guided Tours. While you’ll still enjoy the expertise of a professional guide, the key difference lies in the fact that with a private tour, the tour guide will exclusively be assigned to your tour group only.
This exclusivity increases your interaction time with your tour guide and dive deeper into the history, architecture, and stories of ancient Rome. Your guide’s valuable insights backed with years of experience will not only make your Colosseum tour more informative but also engaging and memorable.
With this private tour, you will get skip-the-line priority admission to the Colosseum and you can also choose to get a pickup and drop-off service to and from your hotel. The Colosseum Private Tours is a perfect choice for visitors traveling with friends or family with the elderly and kids.
Key Highlights:
- Private tour guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (optional)
- Entry to Colosseum
- Access to Arena Floor and Underground
Ticket Price: €75
Colosseum Combo Tour With Vatican Museums
The Colosseum and the Vatican Museums are two of Rome’s most iconic attractions, often visited together by travelers. This combination ticket offers reserved entry to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum, along with skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.
The greatest advantage of this ticket is its flexibility: you can choose to visit both attractions on the same day or spread them out over separate days, according to your preference.
This ticket not only saves you time by bypassing long queues but also ensures you don’t miss out on Rome’s rich history and art. With reserved entry and skip-the-line access, you’ll have more time to immerse yourself in the two most famous landmarks of the city.
This combo ticket is perfect for visitors looking to explore Rome’s major highlights at a reduced price.
Key Highlights:
- Access to the Colosseum
- Entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Guided tour of the Colosseum and Palatine Hill
- Personal headset for clear communication with your guide
- Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Skip-the-line entry
Ticket Price: €82
Last-Minute Colosseum Tickets
If you didn’t book your Colosseum entry tickets in advance and are now disappointed at the sight of long queues at the ticket office, last-minute Tickets are your lifesaver. These tickets not only help you gain access to the iconic amphitheater at the last moment but also provide you skip-the-line entrance, saving you from the hassle of waiting outside the entrance.
Last-minute Colosseum tickets include a live tour guide. The expert will walk you through the attraction’s major highlights, sharing fascinating insights and historical details. If you think booking this ticket as a last-minute solution and can make you compromise on some experiences and accesses, then rest assured, because these tickets include extended access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
These Colosseum Last Minute Tickets are a perfect choice for spontaneous travelers or those who prefer flexible schedules to experience the glory of the famous historical amphitheater without the need for early planning or bookings.
Key Highlights:
- Entry Ticket for Colosseum
- Last-Minute Access
- Entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Skip the line Access
- Live Tour Guide
Ticket Price: €50
Colosseum Ticket Prices And Discounts
The prices of Colosseum tickets and tours vary according to the ticket/tour type, time slot, season, and age category of the visitor. For instance, a basic skip-the-line ticket costs €36, while tickets that allow arena access are priced at €70 per ticket. The time slot of your visit also affects the prices which means early morning slots cost more than those later in the day. Generally, ticket prices are higher in the peak traveling season from March to July and lower during the off-season from November to February.
Age is another cost factor where adults aged 18 to 99 years pay €69 for skip-the-line Colosseum tickets while children aged 6-17 years can get the same ticket for €49. Babies up to 4 years old enjoy an enormous discount and can receive tickets for just €4. By considering these factors—type of ticket, season, time slot, and age—you can find the best option for your visit to the Colosseum.
How to Buy Colosseum Tickets
Now that you know about the different types of Colosseum tickets and their prices, let’s understand where to purchase them and how to purchase them. Many visitors wonder whether buying Colosseum tickets is a complicated process. The good news is that it’s a very simple and straightforward process – you just need to know where to look!
Where To Buy Colosseum Tickets
Primarily there are two ways you can buy your Colosseum Tickets. You can buy it online from the official website or other authorized ticket sellers or you can get them from the ticket office outside the attraction. However, we strongly suggest you get your tickets secured online as buying tickets online not only helps you avoid long lines but also allows you to compare different options at your leisure.
Official Website: The easiest way to get tickets to this famous amphitheater is to get them from the Colosseum tickets official website. However, as the Colosseum is visited by nearly 20,000 people per day, this the literally the first place everybody looks for to get their tickets. Due to such immense popularity and high demand, the tickets and tours on the official website sell out very fast.
Authorized Ticket Sellers: If the tickets are not available on the official website, the next best and safest place to get your Colosseum tickets is to buy them from authorized resellers such as GetYourGuide or Tiqets. These websites provide various ticket options along with detailed descriptions, reviews, and additional information to help you select the best option.
On-Site Ticket Counter: You can also purchase tickets at the Colosseum’s ticket counter, though it’s the last option for anyone to consider due to the physical hassle and long queues. Also, only a limited number of same-day tickets are available at the ticket counter outside the attraction, and even for that, you will have to wait in insanely long queues that can take up to 60-90 minutes during peak hours. To avoid this, booking your tickets online in advance is recommended.
Online Ticket Booking Procedure
Booking Colosseum tickets online is simple, even for first-timers. Just follow these steps:
- Visit the Website: Go to the official Colosseum website or an authorized ticket seller like GetYourGuide, or Tiqets.
- Explore Ticket Options: Browse the different ticket types, and read descriptions, inclusions, prices, cancellation policies, and other details.
- Choose Your Ticket: Select the ticket that best suits your needs, along with the number of participants, date, and preferred time slot.
- Fill Your Information: Now to start your booking fill in your name, contact number, and any other necessary details.
- Make the payment: Pay for the tickets you have selected and congratulations you have booked your tickets to the Colosseum. You will receive your ticket via email, which will be an entire package of information related to your visit.
- Access your Ticket: As you have made an online purchase, you can use your tickets directly from your mobile phone to gain access to the attraction, or if you want, you can take the printouts of the ticket as well, though that is not necessary.
Following these easy steps, you will secure your Colosseum tickets very easily and conveniently.
Important Information about Planning a Perfect Visit to the Colosseum
To enjoy a nice and memorable holiday at the Colosseum, it’s very important to plan your visit carefully because, as they say, “the more you sweat in practice, the less you bleed in battle.” Planning a perfect visit requires an understanding of several key details such as the Opening hours, the Best Time to Visit, Location and Directions, and Many such things:
Opening Hours
The Colosseum is open daily, from 8:30 a.m. until one hour before sunset, with exceptions on December 25, and January 1, when it remains closed. Now, as the closing hours depend on the sunset, the closing hours change throughout the year based on the season.
Here is a table to best justify the opening hours of the Colosseum:
| Date | Opening Hours |
| January 2nd to February 15th | 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
| February 16th to March 15th | 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
| March 16th to last Saturday of March | 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. |
| Last Sunday of March to August 31st | 8:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. |
| September 1st to September 30th | 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
| October 1st to last Saturday of October | 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. |
| Last Sunday of October to December 31st | 8:30 a.m. to 16.30 |
Best Time To Visit
The Colosseum is best visited during the early morning hours as soon as it opens at 8.30 a.m. and remains less crowded until 11 to 12 p.m.
If you are not an early bird and can’t make it in the morning, the next ideal time to visit is after 3 p.m. when the big tour groups would have left.
Directions and Locations
The Colosseum is located in the heart of Rome, Italy, at Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome, RM, Italy.
It sits just east of the Roman Forum and is easily accessible via public transportation.
You can get to the Colosseum from anywhere around the city very easily by different means of transportation such as by bus, metro, or tram. You can take Buses number 38, 75, 175, and 271 and they all will stop right at the entrance, in front of Piazza del Colosseo. The Colosseo metro station is on Line B and only a 5-minute ride from Roma Termini. If you want to take a tram ride, get on Trams 3 and 8 which will stop directly outside the attraction. Tickets for each of the above-mentioned public transport can be purchased at any nearby tobacco shops, newspaper stands or Metro Stations.
Read how to reach Colosseum for more information.
Colosseum Maps
Spanning over a massive base area of 24,000 square meters (approximately 6 acres), the Colosseum is a marvel of ancient Roman architecture and has multiple sections and features waiting to be explored. To have a nice and hassle-free visit around such a colossal landmark, one must have a detailed map of the Colosseum. Having a Colosseum map not only helps you plan and strategize your visit but also helps you navigate easily around the different sections ensuring you don’t miss any key highlights or get lost within its vastness.
With a map in hand, you can quickly locate essential amenities such as restrooms, entrances, exits, and baby-changing facilities, all conveniently marked to save time and avoid unnecessary hassle.
Food and Dining
It is prohibited to bring any food or water inside the Colosseum except for an empty water bottle which you can fill at the water fountains present inside. Also, note that there are no food outlets or dining spots inside the attraction’s premises. So if you want to have refreshments, snacks, or a proper meal, you can only find that outside the Colosseum but in a close vicinity. Here are some of the best restaurants and cafes you can look for near Colosseum:
- Trattoria Pizzeria Luzzi
- La Taverna dei Imperiali
- Cuoco and Camicia
- Li Rioni
- Naumachia
Accessibility Information
The Colosseum has made significant changes and upgrades to make it accessible to all kinds of visitors with special needs. From wheelchair accessibility, elevators, washrooms, baby changing facilities, and disabled access toilets, this attraction provides an inclusive experience for all.
All three gates of the Colosseum are wheelchair accessible and there’s also an elevator that connects level one and level two making it completely accessible for people with mobility issues. They also have three wheelchairs for visitors in need of assistance available at the reception and security office located on the first floor.
There are also 14 restrooms available at the first tier of the Colosseum, which also includes a disabled access toilet equipped with baby changing facilities.
Rules and Regulations for Colosseum Visit
As a UNESCO-declared World Heritage Site, the Colosseum has rules and regulations that every visitor must follow to ensure its safety and preservation.
- All visitors must pass through a security check, including metal detectors. This process can take time, so it is recommended that you arrive 15-30 minutes before your entry time.
- Any large bags, backpacks, suitcases, weapons, knives, glass bottles, sprays, and any dangerous items are strictly prohibited. Only small bags (about 30 x 30 x 15 cm) are allowed.
- Outside food and beverages are generally prohibited except for water in clear plastic bottles.
- Touching or climbing on the ancient walls, barriers, or artifacts is strictly prohibited. Vandalism or graffiti will result in fines and legal consequences.
- Smoking is not allowed anywhere in the Colosseum.
- Using drones or any flying devices is strictly forbidden in and around the Colosseum.
- Photography is allowed for personal use, but professional equipment (tripods, lights, etc.) requires special permission. Flash photography is generally discouraged to protect and preserve the site.
Colosseum Entrances and Queues
The Colosseum was built with 80 entrances or gates to facilitate faster access for all the spectators to their seats.
However, right now, the Colosseum welcomes visitors through three entrances only: the Main Entrance, the Group Gate, and the Stern Gate, also known as the Gladiator’s Gate.
Each of these entrances has its separate queues, with different types of visitors based on their ticket access.
The Main entrance works as the primary entrance and has a queue outside this entrance for visitors who have standard entry tickets and want to explore the Colosseum on their own.
The Group Gate, as its name implies, is designated for tour groups accompanied by professional guides. However, guides can also opt to use the Main Entrance to enter the site when necessary.
The Stern Gate, or Gladiator’s Gate, was traditionally reserved for special access tours. However, after 2019, this stern gate was officially closed for any special tours and is only used for school tour groups now.
Colosseum Highlights
The famous Roman amphitheater, the Colosseum is almost 200 years old now, and even after this many years, this attraction stands tall proving itself to be a real architectural marvel. This historical building still has many areas that are preserved very carefully and hold a lot of interesting stories and facts.
To truly appreciate this iconic monument, it’s essential to explore its many corners, spaces, and hidden gems.
Here are some of the key highlights you should not miss during your visit:
Colosseum’s Arena Floor
The Colosseum’s Arena Floor is where gladiators used to fight wild animals and each other in front of thousands of spectators.
Originally, the floor was made of wood and covered with sand to soak up blood.
Standing on the reconstructed part of the Arena Floor gives a sense of the scale of the Colosseum and the intense atmosphere of the ancient games.
The Underground (Hypogeum)
The Hypogeum, or the Underground region of the Colosseum, is a large network of tunnels and rooms under the Arena Floor.
This region accommodated the gladiators, slaves, and exotic animals that were taken up into the arena through a chain of elevators and trapdoors.
The Hypogeum unfolds the hidden mechanics of the games and the orchestration of how this was done.
The Belvedere (Third and Fourth Tiers)
Climb up to the third and fourth tiers of the Colosseum seating area for fantastic views of the old arena and the city of Rome.
These levels were historically only accessible to the ordinary people of Rome.
Reaching the higher levels gives not only a spectacular view of the Colosseum itself but also of the surrounding Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and even the distant Vatican City.
The Outer Facade and Archways
The Colosseum’s outer facade, with its iconic arches and columns, is a masterpiece of ancient Roman architecture.
Made from travertine stone, it originally featured statues and is divided into four levels, each with a different style of columns: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.
Walking around the exterior gives a sense of the Colosseum’s grandeur and its significance as a symbol of Roman engineering and architectural innovation.
The Arch of Constantine
Technically not inside the Colosseum, this fantastic triumphal arch is perhaps one of the most popular sights that tourists enjoy seeing.
Built in 315 AD, it was constructed to celebrate Emperor Constantine’s triumph over Maxentius.
It is the largest surviving Roman triumphal arch and is richly decorated with reliefs and sculptures. The Arch of Constantine provides insight into the art, politics, and religion of the later Roman Empire.
The Colosseum Museum
This small museum is located on the Second floor of the Colosseum and contains fragments of frescoes, inscriptions, and items related to the gladiatorial games.
The museum provides context, such as artifacts and important details related to this attraction’s history, which enhances the overall experience of the visit.
Every Colosseum visitor always complete have this museum in thier tour itinerary making it a wholesome experience.
Facts about Colosseum
Even though the Colosseum is more than 2000 years old and has attracted many spectators and visitors so far, it still has many factors that will blow your mind.
- The Colosseum’s original name was the Flavian Amphitheatre, after the Flavian dynasty of emperors (Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian) who commissioned and completed its construction.
- There are historical accounts that women, known as “gladiatrices,” fought in the Colosseum. Emperor Domitian (81-96 AD) is reported to have arranged night fights involving women by torchlight. However, these fights were considered more of a spectacle or novelty rather than serious combat.
- The Colosseum could accommodate between 50,000 to 80,000 spectators. Admission was free, and tickets were distributed according to social status, with seating assigned by rank.
- The holes visible in the Colosseum’s walls were caused by the removal of iron clamps and metal fittings that held the stone blocks together. This looting occurred over centuries, as people scavenged the metal for reuse in other buildings.
- The construction of the Colosseum was partially funded by the spoils of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, looted by Roman soldiers after the siege of Jerusalem in 70 AD.
Tips and Tricks for Visiting Colosseum
With nearly 20,000 to 25,000 visitors passing through its gates daily, the Colosseum can become quite crowded.
To make the most of your visit and enjoy a more relaxed experience at this iconic landmark, it’s essential to know some insider tips and tricks.
Here are a few tried-and-true strategies to help you navigate the Colosseum smoothly and make your visit truly memorable:
- Book Tickets in Advance: Secure your tickets online well ahead of time to avoid long queues at the entrance. Consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets or guided tours, which often include priority access.
- Visit Early or Late: Plan your visit early in the morning, just after opening, or late in the afternoon when the crowds are typically smaller. This will also give you the chance to experience the Colosseum in the soft morning or evening light, which is perfect for photos.
- Choose the Right Entrance: Use the designated entrance based on your ticket type. If you have a standard ticket, enter through the Main Entrance. For guided tours, use the Group Gate. Knowing where to go can save you time and reduce stress.
- Opt for a Guided Tour: A guided tour can provide a deeper understanding of the Colosseum’s history and architecture. Additionally, many tours offer exclusive access to restricted areas, such as the underground chambers or the arena floor.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Colosseum involves a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, including ancient stones and staircases. Comfortable shoes are a must to ensure you can explore without discomfort.
- Bring Water and Snacks: While there are vendors outside, bringing your own water bottle and snacks can save time and money. Remember that it can get hot, especially in summer, so staying hydrated is key.
- Visit the Colosseum Museum: Take time to explore the small museum on the upper levels. It offers fascinating insights into the Colosseum’s history, with artifacts and exhibits that you might miss otherwise.
- Combine Your Visit with Nearby Attractions: Consider a combined ticket that includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. These attractions are closely linked to the Colosseum and offer a broader perspective on ancient Roman life.
- Check the Weather: Rome can be very hot in the summer and rainy in the winter. Check the weather forecast before your visit, and dress accordingly. A hat, sunscreen, and an umbrella might be useful depending on the season.
- Avoid Peak Days: If possible, try to avoid weekends, holidays, and the first Sunday of each month, when entry is free, but the Colosseum is at its most crowded.
Historical Background of the Colosseum
The Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is one of the most outstanding achievements of ancient Roman engineering and a profound symbol of imperial power. Construction began in 72 AD under Emperor Vespasian, founder of the Flavian dynasty, and was completed in 80 AD under his son, Emperor Titus. Domitian, Titus’s younger brother and successor, further modified the structure, incorporating subterranean tunnels and facilities for storage. The Colosseum was constructed upon the site of Nero’s Domus Aurea or Golden House, a vast palace complex dismantled after Nero’s tyrannical rule to restore public confidence.
The amphitheater measured 189 meters in length, 156 meters in width. It could house between 50,000 to 80,000 spectators. Its innovation architectural feature was tiered seating to accommodate all walks of people to view, and its hypogeum-a tunnel network with cages to make the movement of animals and gladiators easily possible. The arena, too, had the velarium, a canopy that could be drawn over an area for protection from sunlight.
The Colosseum was inaugurated with games that lasted 100 days, hosting gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and even naumachiae, or mock naval battles. These spectacles were free to the public, but they highlighted the emperor as a provider and protector.
Surviving earthquakes, medieval repurposing, and centuries of neglect, the Colosseum stands as an iconic testament to Rome’s cultural and political legacy, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel of ancient history.
Nearby Attractions
Roman Forum
Within walking distance of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was the heart of ancient Roman life, filled with the remains of temples, arches, government buildings that once prospered in the empire’s golden years.
Palatine Hill
One of the seven hills of Rome, this historic location boasts incredible views of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. The hill is steeped in mythology as the fabled founding ground of Rome.
Trevi Fountain
This ancient, iconic Baroque fountain sits within a 15-minute drive from the Colosseum, inviting visitors to toss a coin and make a wish, embodying the romantic allure of Rome.
Vatican Museums
About 20 minutes from the metro, the Vatican Museums house one of the world’s largest collections of art, including Michelangelo’s masterpiece on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
FAQs (Answers to all your questions about Colosseum Tickets and Tours)
1. Where is it best to buy tickets for the Colosseum?
The best way to buy Colosseum tickets is to buy them online. You can either look for them on the official website of the attraction or go for authorized third-party sellers. Third-party sellers often provide discounts, offers, and flexible options making it a better choice while the tickets from the official site are usually cheaper but sell out months in advance.
2. How much does it cost to go see the Colosseum?
Colosseum admission tickets start at €17. Prices vary depending on factors like demand, time slots, and where you buy them. Official website tickets are the cheapest but sell out quickly. Third-party sellers like GetYourGuide or Tiqets often offer discounts and packages, sometimes making tickets more affordable than the official site.
3. Where to get free tickets for the Colosseum?
The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill are free on the first Sunday of each month. Collect free tickets at the ticket office in Piazza del Colosseo, near the Temple of Venus and Rome or Largo della Salara Vecchia. Arrive early to avoid long lines due to high demand.
4. How to book at Colosseum?
You can book official Colosseum tickets and tours directly from the attraction’s main ticket office which stands right in front of Colosseum. However, brace yourself to face a heavy crowd and long waiting queues outside the ticket office as the Colosseum receives an average of 16000 daily visitors.
5. How far in advance to book at Colosseum?
Colosseum tickets should be booked at least 2 months in advance, especially during holidays or peak seasons. Official tickets sell out quickly, so early planning ensures availability. Third-party platforms may offer last-minute options, but prices might be higher.
6. Who pays for the reduced ticket to the Colosseum?
Reduced tickets are available for EU citizens, and students aged 18-25. Kids and infants also enjoy discounted price on the Colosseum tickets price compared to the adult ticket prices. Eligibility requires proof, such as a valid ID or student card, at the time of purchase. Reduced tickets offer significant savings, but availability can vary depending on the platform.
7. How to visit the Colosseum without a reservation?
Visiting without a reservation is possible only during free entry days, which is possible only on the first Sunday of each month. However, visiting during these free Sundays involves waiting in long lines at the ticket office to get the free tickets. For other days, reservations are essential to guarantee entry.
8. How long does it take to visit the Colosseum?
A visit to the Colosseum takes 1-2 hours on average. If combined with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, plan for a total of 3-4 hours. Guided tours and special access experiences are available for different time duration based on the areas covered in the tour.
9. Is it worth booking a tour for the Colosseum?
Yes, tours offer valuable insights into the Colosseum’s history and architecture. Guided tours often include skip-the-line access and explore restricted areas like the arena floor and underground. They enhance your experience with expert commentary.
10. Are all Colosseum tours the same?
No, there are a lot of tours available for the Colosseum and all of these vary based on the duration, access, and focus. Some offer general insights, while others include exclusive access to restricted areas like the underground or arena. Choose a tour that aligns with your interests and schedule.
11. What is the best tour to the Colosseum?
The 2.5-hour Guided Tour of the Colosseum with skip-the-line access and optional access to the Arena floor is the best tour for exploring the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. However, selecting the best tour is quite subjective and depends on visitor’s preferences and interests.
12. Is it worth seeing the arena and underground at the Colosseum?
Yes, exploring the arena and underground offers a unique perspective on the Colosseum’s history and construction. These areas are typically part of special tours and provide a deeper understanding of the amphitheater’s significance.
13. Can you do the Colosseum without a tour guide?
Yes, self-guided visits are possible with standard Colosseum admission tickets, but guided tours provide valuable context and skip-the-line benefits. Audio guides and guidebooks are also good alternatives for independent travelers.
14. Is it worth seeing the inside of the Colosseum?
Absolutely. The Colosseum’s interior showcases its impressive architecture and historical significance. The upper levels and underground sections offer unique views and insights into its ancient purpose and design.
15. Can I buy tickets in person at the Colosseum?
Yes, tickets can be purchased daily at the main ticket office located in front of the Colosseum. Please note that tickets are sold subject to availability and are not available for groups. It’s recommended to arrive early to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.