If you’re traveling to Rome for the first time, one of the essential things you’re inevitably looking to do is visit the Colosseum. This guide will cover everything you need to know before visiting the Colosseum.
Between Megan and me, we have made several trips to the iconic Rome landmark. It truly is a place that everyone needs to see once in their lifetime!
If youʻre booking your trip to Rome last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!
🇮🇹 Top Experiences and Tours in Rome:
- Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill priority ticket & tour (top-selling option!)
- Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel skip the line ticket (another top seller!)
- Rome food tour with a local guide (a personal favorite)
🛌 Top Hotels in Rome:
- Roma Luxus Hotel (stylish rooms in the Monti district)
- Apartment Vatican Vista (has views over the Vatican)
- The RomeHello (budget option, close to Trevi Fountain)
🚗 Looking for the best way to get around Rome? Click here to check rental car rates for Italy!
This guide will discuss how to get to the Colosseum, what to wear when there, Colosseum prices, and, of course, the best Colosseum tours and tickets to give you the best experience possible.
Did I miss essential Colosseum travel tips? Let me know in the comments. Thanks!
In this post...
Visiting the Colosseum in Rome: Overview
They say all roads lead to Rome, and mine did for a couple of days. It was my first time exploring the ancient city, so I tried to see as many of the main sights as I could during my short stay there. The top priority on my list? The Colosseum.
I had always had an interest in visiting the Colosseum in Rome because the architecture of the empire fascinated me, and its iconic status just made me know it was worth the visit, even if the crowds would be heavy and hard to manage.
I knew the landmark was worth it and that it was one of the best monuments in Rome.
Yes, the place was packed. And rightfully so. It is a magnificent piece of history that should be admired by everyone at some point in their lives. But there are some things you should know before you visit the Colosseum to get the most out of your experience there.
This guide will detail everything I think you should know before going to the Colosseum in Rome. It will include practical information, ticket prices, opening hours, and much more!
Please feel free to leave your notes and suggestions in the comments section for other travelers.
Rome Colosseum Information, History, & Quick Facts
One of the best things to do before entering the Colosseum is to learn more about it! Roman history was always super fascinating for me in school and ever since I first saw the movie Gladiator.
I know Megan takes a keen interest in Roman history, too, and cites Herculaneum as her favorite sight she has ever visited (anywhere in the world).
Anyway, the Colosseum is one of the most notable pieces of Roman history anywhere in the world. The structure was built between 70 and 80 AD by the Roman emperor Vespasian. It was built in an amphitheater design.
The mind-blowing thing about the Colosseum is that it was built for an audience of 65,000 people, which was unprecedented at the time!
It contained gladiator fights, spectacles, and other types of entertainment during the Roman Empire.
In the 14th century, the Colosseum was heavily damaged by an earthquake, and many of the stones that were damaged or crumbled went to be used to build churches, hospitals, and other buildings around Italy.
A few fun facts about the Colosseum:
- The entrance to the Colosseum was free for the citizens of the empire who didn’t have money because emperors usually used those games to gain political popularity.
- More than 500,000 people and over one million animals have been killed at the Colosseum.
- The Colosseum is often associated with the famous Roman Emperor, Julius Caesar. Oddly, he never visited the Colosseum despite this association.
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
As you will notice below, when you visit the Colosseum, you will have access to some other sights, depending on the ticket you purchase. The Colosseum ticket may also include the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Below is a summary of both of the additional sights.
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is an important and ancient government complex that held a regular forum that was vital to Roman history. I was surprised at how massive the area was and how an organized government thrived so long ago when it barely thrives in modern times!
The Roman Forum was the most popular place in Rome for residents, as they were able to see the elections, trials, and many social events held there.
Pay attention as you’re walking around because each sign will give insightful details about what each building was.
Palatine Hill
Yet another mind-blowing, historical place worth visiting on your ticket is Palatine Hill. It is connected to the Roman Forum and is located about 300 meters away from the Colosseum.
The Palace of Augustus and Tiberius was built on Palatine Hill and had a summer garden, fountains, and many other interesting places around it.
It is considered one of the ancient parts of Rome and is located in the central part of the Seven Hills of Rome. You will need to walk a bit to discover all of Palatine Hill and learn the history of it.
Practical information for Visiting the Colosseum
How to Get to the Colosseum
It is pretty easy to get to the Colosseum no matter where in Rome you are (they should just say that ‘all roads lead to the Colosseum’).
If you are staying in the center of Rome, you can perhaps walk there within 30 minutes, depending on where your hotel is. That is how I managed to get there from where I was staying.
Alternatively, you can get to the Colosseum by metro or other public transportation.
Taking the Metro to the Colosseum
To get to the Colosseum by metro, you will need to take the metro to the stop that is called ‘Colosseo‘ or ‘Colosseum’. It is on Line B. Rome is creating a new Line C stop on the metro that will open in 2025, but for now, Line B is your best option.
Taking the Bus to the Colosseum
If you find it easier to take the bus to the Colosseum, you will need to take the following bus lines: 75, 81, 673, 175, or 204. They will take you to the Colosseum. You will need to get off at the stops Celio Vibenna or Colosseo.
Taking the Tram to the Colosseum
An alternative option for getting to the Colosseum is to take the tram. You can take Tram #3 to the Colosseum.
Colosseum Entrances
If you’re looking for how to enter the Colosseum, you will see a couple of entrances. If you get off the metro at Colosseo station, you will need to walk around to the other side of the structure.
If you’re disembarking from the bus at the stop ‘Colosseo’, you will be right beside the entrance for individuals and groups.
Colosseum Tickets & Tours
Priority Ticket (Includes a Guided Tour)
The Colosseum got rid of its skip-the-line tickets in the last few years, so now the best advance ticket option is a priority ticket that includes a free guided tour.
This is a fantastic option for those visiting, as you can secure your time slot and learn as you walk around, checking out the Colosseum. It is also pretty affordable and won’t set you back too much more than $50.
I visited Rome in winter, and it was the low season, so while this applies to that season, it also applies to the summer months when there are more tourists in Rome.
The Colosseum’s capacity is 3,000 visitors daily, so while that seems like a high number, you don’t want to be left out in the cold without pre-booking your ticket and tour.
Colosseum Entrance Ticket (Self-Guided)
Depending on the amount of time you need at the Colosseum and which sights you want to see there, you will pay different fees. You will also need reservations to visit the Colosseum currently (except a few select days a year)!
Here are the prices current as of March 2024:
- Adult: Standard (€18), Forum Pass (€18), Full Experience (€24)
- EU Citizens ages 18-25: Standard (€4), Forum Pass (€4), Full Experience (€4)
- Children under 18: all tickets free
*Standard ticket: The standard ticket to the Colosseum will grant you access to the Colosseum, Imperial Forums, and the Roman Forum (Palatine).
It is valid for 24 hours, and there is only one entrance to each site. It includes a temporary exhibition. Please note that the prices listed above include the new €2 reservation fee.
*Forum Pass super ticket: The Forum Pass super ticket will let you see only the Roman Forum (Palatine) and the Imperial Forum, with one entrance for all. This does not include the Colosseum.
It is valid for 24 hours at the super sights, and the temporary exhibition costs an additional 16 euros. Please note that the prices listed above include the new €2 reservation fee.
*Full experience: The full experience ticket is valid for 2 days (48 hours) and permits you access to the Colosseum (both the arena and undergrounds), the Imperial Forum, the Roman Forum (Palatine), and all other super sights.
It also includes a temporary exhibition. Please note that the prices listed above include the new €2 reservation fee.
*Children under 18: If you’re under 18 years of age, you get free entrance to the Colosseum. This is for both EU citizens and citizens of non-EU countries.
Please note that these are not the only prices and discounts available.
To find out if you qualify for a free Colosseum ticket, a reduced ticket, or just the standard one, visit the Colosseum official site and find out more. You can check it out here.
Free Entrance at the Colosseum
On the first Sunday of each month, the entrance to the Colosseum is free. Please do realize that there are limitations to this depending on when you visit (usually from January to March and from October to December).
Colosseum Opening Hours
If you’re visiting the Colosseum, be sure to check if the hours fit your travel schedule!
I know many people are traveling from afar, and I would hate for you to get there. It is closed during the hours you desire to visit. Below are the Colosseum’s opening hours. You can check for any changes on their website.
- January 1st to February 28th: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
- March 1 to March 26: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
- March 27 to August 31st: 9:00 am to 7:15 pm
- September 1st to September 30th: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
- October 1st to October 29: 9:00 am to 6:30 pm
- October 30 to December 31st: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
The last tickets to the Colosseum are sold an hour before the gates close.
Colosseum Closed Dates
The Colosseum is open every day of the year except December 25. Just be sure to check the hours before visiting so you can ensure you get to go there and it is open at the time!
Visiting the Colosseum in a Wheelchair or with Limited Mobility
Is the Colosseum wheelchair accessible? In my opinion, it was one of the more wheelchair-access-friendly sights I’ve visited.
After you enter and pass through security, you will see signs that display where the elevator is located for those in wheelchairs or with mobility limitations.
There are also signs pointing travelers to accessible restrooms or places for mothers with young children and babies.
On the upper floors, you will find special paths and ramps for those in wheelchairs, giving these visitors spots where they can view the Colosseum with ease. While certain points may have limitations, you can visit the Colosseum in a wheelchair or with mobility issues.
As for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, you may experience more of a challenge because there is a fair walking distance between everything and there is not a dedicated path for wheelchairs (at least not one I saw).
The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are located on the opposite side of the Colosseum and are about five times larger than the Colosseum!
If you have additional questions regarding visiting the Colosseum in a wheelchair or with other limitations, please call the Rome Colosseum helpdesk at +39 06 399 67 700.
More Useful Colosseum Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit the Colosseum
To be honest, the Colosseum is always crowded. Yes, they limit the number of tourists inside to 3,000, but it is still a busy place to be.
Naturally, some seasons are better to visit than others. I went in the winter, and it was slightly better than Megan’s visits at other times of the year. The best time to visit the Colosseum is from November to February. It is a great winter day trip from Naples or other places, too.
The best time of day to visit the Colosseum is right at opening at 8:30am because there are fewer people there.
There Aren’t Many Places to Sit
Unfortunately, there are almost no places to sit and relax at the Colosseum. There is limited space anyway, but you will need to be cognizant of the fact that you will be on your feet a lot and will need to keep walking to see the place.
Touching and Standing on Stones and Marble is Prohibited
There are rules in almost every corner or place at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. I’m glad they put these in place to maintain the ancient structures.
Please do not break the rules here. Pay attention to the warning signs that are telling you where you can and cannot touch, lean, or stand.
Don’t go over the ropes or boundaries of where you’re not supposed to be. Seriously, be a good traveler at the Colosseum!
Water Fountains and Restrooms at the Colosseum
There are several places where you can get access to water fountains and toilets throughout the Colosseum. There were also plenty of restrooms and water fountains in the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
In addition, there is a water fountain right next to the ‘Colosseo’ metro station, and you can carry your water jug with you and refill it on the way.
Rome is hot during the summer months, so please stay well-hydrated on your trip there!
Places and Hotels with a View of the Colosseum
The Colosseum is pretty much located in the heart of Rome, and as the city grew throughout the centuries, many buildings popped up around it that gave an epic view of the UNESCO structure.
You will find the Colosseum’s location in a very centralized and busy area of Rome. You will need to take the stairs down to it, as it is like a large crater amid a concrete jungle. From there, you’ll find many cafes, places to buy Italian souvenirs, and restaurants with Colosseum views!
Cafe with a Colosseum View
If you want to grab a cup of delicious Italian coffee before your Colosseum visit, there is a cafe right next door called La BIGA.
It has a nice outdoor terrace, and if you’re lucky, you will be able to get a seat and enjoy a cappuccino before buying your ticket to the Colosseum. It doesn’t get great reviews, but the views are nice!
Restaurant with a Colosseum View
Another place to sit down and have a great view of the Colosseum is the rooftop restaurant, Ristorante Aroma at Palazzo Manfredi.
It has a traditional and modern Italian food menu, and you can witness a killer sunset over the Colosseum while you indulge in Italian food and wine.
Hotels with a Colosseum View
If you have always desired to wake up to the view of the Colosseum, there are a few places you can stay that will make that dream come true!
Here are some Rome hotels with Colosseum views (prices range from $125 and up):
- Royal House (cheapest option)
- N°9 Colosseo (super-stylish rooms and affordable!)
- Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo (rooftop pool!)
- Hotel Palazzo Manfredi – Relais & Chateaux (luxury option)
Wear Good Footwear
One of the most essential things you need to know before going to the Colosseum is that you will walk a lot, especially if you decide to also visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
The surface around this area is not always flat, and it can be rather rocky in spots. If it rains, you will also experience muddy surfaces in the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Pack good walking shoes!
I didn’t listen to my own advice before going, and I wore my winter boots there (I was coming from Norway). The boots are a bit old and were not that comfortable for the duration of my Colosseum visit.
Protect yourself from the sun!
Summers in Rome are brutally hot, and even the spring and autumn can be sunny and hot. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and even an umbrella if you need it because you will be exposed to the sun a lot.
Photographing the Colosseum (+ Photography Tips)
You Might Have People in Your Photo
The Colosseum is one of the top sights in the world, and to think you can just rock up there and take a photo of yourself without anyone else in it is a bit naive. But, depending on the time and situation, it is not impossible.
In addition, you will almost always have people moving past you in tour groups. Many will be trying to take selfies. Just move along until you find the perfect spot to take your own photo.
Don’t Bring a Drone
It is illegal to fly in Italy in many places, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the Colosseum strictly forbid it! Don’t bring it. You will face a massive fine, and you will ruin drones for everyone else.
There are other ways to capture good videos at the Colosseum, however. Bring your usual camera and/or a GoPro and try some creative angles that will give you and the people who will see your photos a unique perspective.
Where to Stay in Rome
There are many options for where to stay in Rome. I listed some Colosseum view hotels and guesthouses above, but here are my other recommendations for where to stay in Rome:
- Roma Luxus Hotel (stylish rooms in the Monti district)
- Apartment Vatican Vista (has views over the Vatican)
- The RomeHello (budget option, close to Trevi Fountain)
If you have tips, information, or questions about visiting the Colosseum, please drop them in the comments section. Thanks!
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Pin These Useful Rome Colosseum Tips
Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she now lives in Finnish Lapland after previous stints in Norway, Germany, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. She has a passion for winter travel, as well as the Nordic countries, but you can also find her eating her way through Italy, perusing perfume stores in Paris, or taking road trips through the USA. Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, the New York Times, and more. She co-authored Fodor’s Travel ‘Essential Norway’ (2020) and has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries.