Standing tall for almost 2,000 years in the heart of the Eternal City, the Colosseum of Rome is a timeless monument to the ingenuity and power of the ancient Romans. Having hosted some of the most thrilling and brutal spectacles in antiquity – from gladiatorial battles and naval reenactments, to epic chariot races and brutal public executions – the Colosseum is one of the most popular tourist attractions across the world.
The massive amphitheater offers a unique glimpse of everyday life during the Roman Empire. Inside, visitors can explore the vast arena and underground areas, where gladiators lived, trained and fought. The Colosseum’s towering arches and supporting columns reflect the incredible engineering and architectural prowess of ancient Romans, while the upper levels offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city. So come, explore the Colosseum ruins and journey back in time to a world of drama and excitement.
The Colosseum and Palatine Hill are two landmarks in the center of Rome with deep historic and symbolic ties. Imposing and awe-inspiring, the ancient gladiatorial amphitheater majestically rises at the base of Palatine Hill, an area that Rome's affluent and influential have called home for centuries.Emperor Vespasian decided to build the Colosseum as a way to gain favor with the Roman people after the unpopular reign of Nero, whose lavish palace once dominated Palatine Hill. This new amphitheater would not only provide entertainment for the masses, it would also showcase his power.Today, the Colosseum and Palatine Hill are a reminder of the imperial power, grandeur and excess in ancient Rome. Visitors can walk down to the Colosseum arena to see where gladiators once battled for their lives and then explore the ruins on Palatine Hill where emperors lived and shaped the world.
Yes, the Colosseum is open to the public and free admission on the Sunday of each month has been reinstated.
Yes, tickets are required to visit the Colosseum, even if you are entitled to free access or when admission is free.
Colosseum tickets without tours range from €16 to €22 and you can examine the various ticket options here.
If you're interested in guided tours at the Colosseum, prices start from about €40 and can vary significantly based on the number of attractions visited, your group size and any additional services, such as a hotel pickup and drop-off.
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, is perhaps the most iconic landmark in Rome and one of the most famous attractions in the world. Constructed almost 2,000 years ago in the heart of Rome, it is regarded as a feat of ancient engineering and architecture.
Over the centuries, the Colosseum has hosted many historical events, including gladiatorial contests, chariot races, theatrical performances, religious processions, naval reenactments and even public executions. As such, a visit to the Colosseum is an incredible opportunity to learn about the everyday life of ancient Romans, as well as their customs, traditions and values.
The Colosseum is located in the center of Rome, on Piazza del Colosseo, near the Roman Forum and the Arch of Constantine. It is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and Rome Metro, with ‘Colosseo’ being the closest subway station.
Inside the Colosseum, you can walk through and explore many of the archways and corridors of the ancient amphitheater. Visitors typically get to see the seating areas where spectators watched the games and events, some of which have been restored and reconstructed. The Colosseum museum also hosts several exhibitions that provide information about its history, significance and uses in the past.
Depending on the ticket you book, you may also have access to the reconstructed arena itself, where gladiatorial games and other spectacles were held, as well as the underground chambers, where the animals and gladiators were kept before the games. From the upper levels of the Colosseum, you can also enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Yes, there are guided tours available for the Colosseum and surrounding archeological sites. Guided tours can either be booked together with your tickets from the official website, however availability may be limited. For greater convenience and more options, you can also book guided tours to the Colosseum from tour operators.
The easiest way to skip the line at the Colosseum is to buy a ticket in advance, either from the official website or a tour provider. Alternatively, you can book a small-group or private guided tour of the Colosseum to avoid the long queues.
It is important to note that since the Colosseum is one of the most popular attractions in Rome, some waiting may still be involved, even with skip-the-line access.
The Colosseum is open every day, except Christmas and New Year’s Day. For full details on visiting hours during the winter and summer seasons, consult the opening hours.
Most visitors spend about 2 hours at the Colosseum, however the main areas can be covered in as little as 1 hour, while more comprehensive visits can last up to 3 hours. If you also plan on visiting additional sites of interest in the surrounding area, such as the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill or the SUPER sites, you can easily spend half a day, or more. As such, guided tours are a great way of exploring the Colosseum without missing anything.
Yes, visitors are allowed to take pictures for personal use, however the use of tripods, monopods, selfie sticks and flash photography is prohibited, as they can damage the fragile artwork and structures inside the archeological site.
No, there is no dress code for the Colosseum, however visitors must be respectful of the archeological site and avoid touching the walls and ruins. It is also important to dispose of any trash properly.
There is an airport-style security check with a metal detector at the Colosseum entrance that all visitors must go through. Dangerous items, such as glass bottles, knives and scissors, are banned inside the Colosseum. Visitors may take plastic water bottles, small bags and backpacks with them, however bulkier items such as suitcases and large bags are not allowed inside. There is no cloak room at the Colosseum, so you will not be allowed access if you bring any banned items with you.
Yes, the Colosseum is accessible to visitors with limited mobility via a ramp on the ground floor. There is also an elevator allowing access to the middle tier. Unfortunately, due to the limitations of the archeological site, wheelchair users cannot access the underground and top levels of the Colosseum.
