The Colosseum, an iconic symbol of ancient Rome, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. As one of the world's top tourist attractions, it's crucial to plan your visit to avoid long lines and make the most of your time. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know, from ticket and tour options to the best times to visit, tips on navigating the site, and highlights of the most fascinating features and historical aspects to explore once you're inside.
Before you visit the Colosseum
The Colosseum appeals to a wide range of visitors. History enthusiasts will love exploring its rich past and architectural marvels. Kids can enjoy the tales of gladiators and ancient games, making it an educational and exciting visit. Adults will appreciate the cultural significance and grandeur. However, elderly visitors or those with mobility issues might find the extensive walking and stairs challenging. Despite this, the Colosseum offers accessibility options, ensuring everyone can experience its wonder.
Best time to visit Colosseum
Weekdays generally see fewer crowds compared to weekends, leading to shorter waiting times. If you’ve pre-booked your tickets, a weekday visit will provide a more relaxed and thorough tour. Crowds are lighter from Monday to Thursday, increasing on Fridays. Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest. The summer months from June to August attract the most visitors, making the Colosseum very crowded and extremely hot. For the best experience, consider visiting during the shoulder season from October to March, when it's less crowded and cooler.
Tickets to Colosseum
There are various tickets available for visiting the Colosseum. You can choose basic entry tickets, which grant access to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. Alternatively, opt for guided tours, which include options for Colosseum Underground and Arena access, as well as small group tours. For a unique experience, consider the special nighttime access ticket to the Roman Forum. Each option provides a different way to explore these historic sites, catering to different interests and schedules.
Opening hours
Colosseum:
- January 1 - February 15: 8:30am to 4:30pm
- February 16 - March 15: 8:30am to 5pm
- March 16 - March 30: 8:30am to 5:30pm
- March 31 - September 30: 8:30am to 7:15pm
- October 1 - October 26: 8:30am to 6:30pm
- October 27 - December 31: 8:30am to 4:30pm
Palatine Hill:
- January 1 - February 28: 9am to 4:30pm
- March 1 - March 30: 9am to 5:30pm
- March 31 to September 30: 9am to 7:15pm
- October 1 to October 26: 9am to 6:30pm
- October 27 to December 31: 9am to 4:30pm
Roman Forum:
- January 1 - February 15: 9am to 4:30pm
- February 16 - March 15: 9am to 5pm
- March 16 - March 30: 9am to 5:30pm
- March 31 - September 30: 9am to 7:15pm
- October 1 - October 26: 9am to 6:30pm
- October 27 - December 31: 9am to 4:30pm
Tips for visiting the Colosseum
- Book a Guided Tour: Exploring the Colosseum with a guided tour offers the best experience. A local expert will provide deeper insights into the Colosseum's history and Roman culture.
- Purchase Tickets Online: Skip the long lines by buying your Colosseum tickets online. It requires planning but saves time and hassle on the day of your visit.
- Underground Access: General-entry tickets and most tours don't include the underground area, which was once used for staging gladiator fights and animal hunts. Opt for tours that include this fascinating section for a complete experience.
- Beware of Pickpockets: Popular attractions attract pickpockets. Keep your valuables secure when visiting the Colosseum and its surroundings.
- Free Admission on First Sundays: Enjoy free admission to public museums in Rome, including the Colosseum, on the first Sunday of every month.
- Timing Your Visit: In summer, visit early in the morning to avoid the heat. During cooler months like February and March, visit in the early afternoon to enjoy milder temperatures.
- Explore the Surroundings: The Roman Forum, Triumphal Arch, and other ancient remains enhance your visit. For stunning views, head to Campidoglio Hill and walk down into the Forum area.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The terrain is uneven with many stairs. Comfortable, supportive shoes are essential for a pleasant visit.
Getting there
🚌 By Bus:
Travel time: 10 to 12 minutes from Roma Termini
From the North: Take lines 38 and 75.
From the South: Use buses 175 and 271.
The Colosseum has its own bus stop at Piazza del Colosseo, right in front of the entrance.
Other bus options include numbers 3, 8, 40, 60, 23, 30, 85, 87, 117, 810, and 870.
Ticket information:
- Tickets can be purchased at tobacco shops and newspaper stands.
- Single tickets cost €1.50 and are valid for 75 minutes.
- A day pass, costing €6, is a cost-effective option if you plan to travel around the city.
🚋 By tram:
Travel time: 2 to 4 minutes from Roma Term
Trams are a convenient option to reach the Colosseum from various parts of Rome. Board trams on line 3 or 8, which stop at Piazza del Colosseo, right outside the Colosseum.
Ticket information:
- Tickets can be purchased at newspaper stands, tobacco shops, or metro stations.
- Once stamped, a ticket is valid for 100 minutes.
- Ensure you have a valid ticket, as fines for invalid or missing tickets can be up to €100.
🚇 By metro:
Travel time: 5 minutes from Roma Termini
- The Colosseum has its own metro station, Colosseo, which brings you directly to Flavio's Amphitheatre.
- Rome's metro system is easy to navigate with three lines: A, B, and C.
- Colosseo station is on line B.
- You can board a train on line B from Roma Termini or any other station across the city.
- If you prefer not to switch lines, you can get off at nearby stations and walk 15-20 minutes to the Colosseum entrance.
Entrances, amenities, rules and accessibility
Entrances
- Individual Visitors: Enter through Sperone Valadier, facing the forums.
- Groups: Separate entrance designated for group visits.
- Arena: Enter through the Stern entrance.
Accessibility:
- The Colosseum is wheelchair accessible with a ramp to the ground floor.
- An elevator is available to access the middle levels.
- The top and underground levels are not wheelchair accessible.
- Multiple accessible bathrooms are available.
Amenities:
- Restrooms are available inside.
- No locker facilities, so avoid carrying large bags.
- No restaurants or cafes inside.
Rules:
- Bulky rucksacks and large bags are not allowed; normal size handbags are permitted.
- Eating inside the Colosseum is prohibited.
- Visitors can bring empty bottles to fill at water stations inside.
- Handheld cameras are not allowed.
What to see at the Colosseum:
The lowest level, known as the podium, was reserved for the elite of Roman society, including senators, emperors, and high-ranking officials. This section offered the best views of the events in the arena.
This level was for the wealthy class. Today, it features an exhibition on the history of the Colosseum, including gladiator combats, the foundation of the structure, and its various eras. Don't miss this area to learn more about ancient Rome and its people.
Accessible via stairs from the second floor, the third level was once reserved for less privileged people, such as slaves and women, as it was furthest from the arena. Now open to the public, it offers amazing views of the city.
This is where gladiators once fought, covered with 15 cm of sand. Although much of the wooden flooring has been removed, part of it has been restored to give visitors a sense of the battlefield. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the amphitheater.
Nearby attractions
Circus Maximus, an ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium, is a sprawling public park today. It offers visitors a glimpse into Rome's grandeur with its vast open space, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying historical ruins amidst a vibrant urban setting.
The Basilica of San Clemente is a unique multi-layered church in Rome. It features a 12th-century basilica built over a 4th-century church and a 1st-century Roman house, providing a fascinating journey through Rome's architectural and religious history.
Parco del Colle Oppio is a serene park in Rome, offering beautiful views and ancient ruins, including parts of Nero's Golden House. It's a perfect spot to relax, enjoy nature, and soak in Rome's rich historical layers in a pretty setting.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, Rome's largest piazza, is a bustling square known for its multicultural atmosphere, vibrant markets, and historical treasures like the ancient Porta Magica. It's a lively hub that showcases the diverse and dynamic spirit of the city.
The Capitoline Museums, located on Rome's Capitoline Hill, are the world's oldest public museums. They house an impressive collection of art and artifacts, including famous sculptures and paintings, offering a comprehensive insight into Rome's rich cultural and historical heritage.
