best colosseum tours rome

10 Best Colosseum Tours to Book in 2024 + Planning Tips

Symbol of Romans’ engineering genius, here you will find the best Colosseum tours to discover and delve into one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Also known as Amphitheatre Flavium, it was built around 70AD. Since then, it has been the place for shows and games as well as a period of decline after the fall of the Roman Empire. After centuries, this huge amphitheater has shown no sign of cooling and keeps the record of being one of the most popular Rome attractions and one of the best Roman archaeological sites.

There are many ways you can visit the Colosseum , and while going independently might sound cheaper, it can also be quite time-consuming and not as valuable as booking a Colosseum private tour. Why? Because with a tour you can skip the line and save plenty of time, especially in crowded seasons, and because a tour leader can talk to you about historical Colosseum facts and anecdotes that otherwise you might not discover on your own.

Find here the best tours of the Colosseum in Rome. Choose the experience that better fits your needs and travel preferences. All these tours include Colosseum tickets skip-the-line to make sure you don’t queue for an hour or two and don’t take too much time off the other Roman landmarks .

Even though it’s one of Rome’s main tourist attractions, there are many things to know and learn about this ancient amphitheater. This is why a Colosseum and Roman Forum tour is essential if you are interested in going beyond just looking at the architecture.

Whether you book a private Colosseum underground tour or an exclusive Colosseum night tour, you will learn and see much more than with a simple ticket entrance to the general access area. We selected the best Colosseum tours for every preference. Whether you only want to visit the general access areas while learning about the whole structure, or also walk the arena floor and gladiators’ dungeon.

Table of Contents

Best Roman Colosseum tours picked by us

Colosseum tour with underground, arena & gladiator gate with roman forum.

This is a semi-private tour of the Colosseum run by LivTours. It’s one of the most complete Colosseum tours because it’s all-inclusive of all the Colosseum sectors, both those open to the general public and those accessible only with a certified tour guide such as the Arena Floor, the Gladiator’s Gate, and the fantastic Undergrounds.

I have visited the underground level of the Colosseum and I think it’s one of the most important sections, revealing the majesty of the landmark and its complicated architecture.

On this semi-private tour of the Colosseum of 6 participants max, you will have an expert guide showing you around these huge ancient sites and explaining their importance and purpose in Roman times.

Quick facts:

• How long: 3 hours and 15 minutes
• How many people: 6 max
• Skip the line: Yes
• Sights included: Colosseum (with Underground, Arena floor, Gladiator’s Gate), Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Julius Caesar’s altar, Basilica of Maxentius.
• Price: adults 159€, teenagers 13-17yo 149€, children 3-12yo 144€, free for under 3.

Click here for more info and to book

Skip-the-line Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

A popular Colosseum private tour, this will also take you to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. With a maximum of 15 people per group, this itinerary through ancient Rome is easy to follow and hear even when the Colosseum is crowded. Which is most of the time.

You will travel through history and learn about the fights, mass executions, and naval battles of one of Rome’s monuments to the human genius.

You will explore the Colosseum for about an hour and then your guide will take you to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Here you will walk through the daily life and politics of ancient Rome and see where Julius Caesar was cremated.

One of the best tours of the Colosseum and the Forum, the explanation of all the places goes in-depth while remaining intriguing and amusing. While this tour includes a skip-the-line ticket, it won’t take you to see the underground level or to stop on the Arena floor.

• How long: 3 hours
• How many people: 15 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Julius Caesar’s altar.
• Price: Prices vary depending on the day and on the time. Adults’ tickets range between 59 to 100€, children up to 14yo between 55 and 93€, free for under 2.

VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

This is another Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine tour. Here you also have access to the underground and the arena floor for a complete experience.

If you are looking for the best Colosseum underground tour, do check this out. With a maximum of 24 people, enjoy the lesser-busy parts of the Colosseum, which not many visitors get access to as a certified guide is required.

After visiting the underground where animals and gladiators awaited their fate and the arena floor where shows took place, you will walk around the general access areas. This tour is very interesting in that you will have the chance to visit areas of the Colosseum that are only accessible with a guide like the underground and dungeon built for the gladiators to wait to enter the arena and meet their fate.

Finally, you will visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for a complete experience of ancient Rome.

• How long: 3.5 hours
• How many people: 24 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Colosseum Underground, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Arch of Constantine.
• Price: Prices vary depending on the day and on the time. Adults from 119€, children up to 14yo from 114€, free for under 2.

Click here for more info and to book .

READ MORE: Want to know more about the history of this famous Rome landmark? Check out our article on the Colosseum facts and history .

Top Tier Semi-Private Colosseum Tour with Panoramic Glass Elevator

This is an exclusive semi-private tour that will take you around the Colosseum and up the panoramic glass elevator. This Colosseum tour doesn’t include a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill but it will take you to the newly-opened upper tiers of the Roman amphitheater through the glass elevator.

The view is incredible both from the top and while climbing. You will not only be able to enjoy a privileged view of the Roman Forum but also of the skyline of Rome.

• How long: 1.5 hours
• Sights included: Colosseum, glass elevator.
• Price: Adults from 109€ but the minimum of the tour is 2 people so it starts from 218€ for 2 all-inclusive, teenagers 13-17yo 99€, children 3-12yo from 94€, free for under 3.

Gladiators’ Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

This skip-the-line Colosseum tour allows you to enter from the gladiators’ gate directly to the arena floor. From here, you will have a full view of the spectators’ stalls. From here, emperors and the audience watched the shows and cheered at their favorite gladiators.

After walking through the restricted areas and learning about their history and construction, the tour will continue to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Here is where the wolf found Romulus and Remus and Rome was founded .

• How many people: 25 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Gladiator’s Gate, Arena floor, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill.
• Price: Prices vary depending on the day and on the time. Adults 63-107€, children up to 13-17yo 59-96€, free for under 2.

READ MORE: Do you want to have different experiences and visit more places? Check out the other great Rome tours !

Private Colosseum Tour Including Ancient City

This is a private tour of the Colosseum in which you will have your private expert guide who will be able to personalize the experience according to your needs. The tour includes priority access to all the sights and gives you the option to add Gladiators’ school experience for kids for an extra charge.

• How many people: Private
• Sights included: Colosseum main floor and 1st tier, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill.
• Price: 429€ for 2 participants all-inclusive, teenagers 13-17yo 69€, children 3-12yo 64€, free for under 3.

Rome in A Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum and Historic Centre

If you are short on time but still want to visit as much as you can, including the Colosseum and the main highlights of the Vatican, this is the tour for you.

It’s a full-day Rome tour of a little less than 8 hours where you will visit the city’s main landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain and obviously the Colosseum with a fast-track entrance.

This is a pretty daring tour, as Rome is very hard to visit in a day, but if this is all the time you have and still want to make the most out of it, you can only do it with an expert tour guide.

• How long: 7 hours and a half.
• How many people: 18 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Centro Storico, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Capitoline Hill.
• Price: adults 139€, children up to 14yo 129€, free for under 2.

READ MORE: Check out my detailed post for more tips on the best way to visit the Colosseum and enjoy your experience.

Private Colosseum Guided Tour with Underground & Ancient Rome

This is one of the private Colosseum tours by LivTours. You will be shown the Colosseum in all its parts, including those generally restricted to the public, at your own pace with your expert guide able to customize the experience for you.

You will also visit the Roman Forum, the very heart of the ancient city, where temples, villas and the Senate house were built. Here daily life went on thousands of years ago. One of my favorite areas within the Roman Forum is the altar devoted to Julius Caesar. After his death, he was deified and still now his fellow citizens bring him fresh flowers. Part of the tour is also Palatine Hill, the birthplace of Rome.

You can also request pick-up and drop-off services for an extra charge.

• How long: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Sights included: Colosseum, Colosseum underground, Arena Floor, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill.
• Price: 519€ for 2 people all-inclusive, teenagers 13-17yo 89€, children 3-12yo 84€, free for under 3.

Colosseum Tour + Gladiator’s Entrance

This tour will make live the gladiators’ experience from the beginning. First of all, you will access the Arena from the Gladiators’ Gate to have a feel of what the famous fighters as well as the people sentenced to death by wild animals would have felt before meeting their fate.

Your visit will cover all areas and floor of the Colosseum making you relive all the thrill and the ferment of its heyday under all perspectives, whether it’s the gladiators or the public. An expert guide will talk you through the history, the technical details of the Colosseum’s architecture, and the activities the audience engaged in.

Once you are done exploring the Colosseum, you will make your way to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill where your guide will explain the importance of these archaeological sites in Ancient Rome. Your guide will also show you 3D images to show you what these areas looked like at their highest moment.

• How many people: 20 max
• Sights included: Colosseum, Gladiators’ Gate, Colosseum Dungeon, Arena Floor.
• Price: adults €50, children 6 to 17yo €44, free for children under 6.

Colosseum Skip-the-Line Self-Guided Virtual Reality Tour

If you’d rather book only a skip-the-line Colosseum ticket and explore the site with your own 3D virtual device, you can check out this tour.

For around 30€, you will rent an audio guide with headphones for which you can choose your language. This is a device for 3D interactive reconstruction of the Colosseum to “relive” the shows taking place 2000 years ago.

If you don’t want a guide and want to experience the Colosseum at your own pace, this is a good option. You will also have fast-track access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

• How long: 2 hours
• Sights included: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill.
• Price: from €59.90 per person.

READ MORE: Visiting Rome for the first time? Check out our detailed guide to the top Rome attractions .

Which tour of the Colosseum is best?

My favorite tour companies in Rome are Walks and LivTours . I have taken many tours with them so it’s only natural that these are what I recommend. The best Colosseum tours to book are those that also include the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill so that in one tour you will have visited some of the most important archaeological sites in Rome . Ideally, they should be also inclusive of skip-the-line tickets which help avoid waiting up to an hour during hot summer days in the line.

This comes really handy especially if you are traveling to Rome with kids or elderly friends and family. If one of the things to do in London with kids in fact is to discover Harry Potter’s places, in Rome, this goes for gladiators and ancient Roman shows and fights.

Countless companies are providing fantastic tours of the Colosseum in Rome. For a more complete experience, you can book a tour that includes also the Arena Floor and/or the Underground because you are going to have the full picture of what was really going on during the famous shows in Ancient Rome, how the Colosseum was built and organized, and what happened backstage.

We have listed some of the best Colosseum tours for you to help you decide which one is best for you.

Is it worth getting a guided tour of the Colosseum?

Getting a guided tour of the Roman Colosseum is totally worth it if you want to learn more than what you would grasp by looking at the ruins by yourself. A tour will be led by an expert guide, often a historian or an archaeologist, who will give you insights you are likely to miss on your own.

I have visited the Colosseum many times, sometimes on my own and sometimes on a guided tour. The historians leading the tours I took incredibly increased the value and my knowledge about the place, its complex architecture, its original appearance, what everybody would do inside the Colosseum, whether they were the fighters, the staff coordinating the different parts, and the public.

Is the Colosseum Underground tour worth it?

Booking a tour where also the Colosseum Underground is included is always a great option. The undergrounds and the dungeon had their specific purpose and required great engineering skills to be built. So it’s important to get to know also this area to make your experience more complete.

Not all the tours include also the Colosseum Underground, just like they don’t all include the Arena Floor. These are the areas that are not open to the general public who only booked a standard ticket and they require a guide to access. Usually, the undergrounds and the arena floor are on the same tours and these are the experiences I recommend.

Can you do a self-guided tour of the Colosseum?

You can always book skip-the-line tickets and explore the Colosseum at your own pace. These will give you access to the floors open to all visitors. If you want to access also the arena floor and the dungeon, you will need to book a private tour with a certified guide.

How long should you spend at the Colosseum?

I recommend staying at least 2 to 3 hours inside the Colosseum to visit and explore all its areas and sections, so the bleachers where the spectators watched the shows and fights, the undergrounds and the area floor.

Tips to enjoy your Colosseum tour

• Book online. Whether you are doing a private guided tour or an official certified tour, booking online is always recommended even if you are only buying a skip-the-line ticket.
• Bring your ID. Don’t forget your national ID or passport as they will be checked at the entrance.
• Get there early. Even if you have a specific time for the start of your tour, I suggest getting there at least 10 to 15 minutes earlier to meet your tour guide and to
• Wear comfortable shoes. Inside the Colosseum, you will walk a lot and you will occasionally do some stairs so definitely you don’t want to wear high heels or even flip flops. Wear a pair of runners, sneakers, or walking sandals.
• Don’t wear a backpack. Backpacks and wheeled suitcases are not allowed in the Colosseum and there is no cloakroom so don’t carry yours otherwise it will be confiscated or you won’t be allowed in. You can bring a purse or a crossbody bag.
• Bring a bottle of water. Don’t forget to carry a reusable water bottle to remain hydrated. Inside the Colosseum, there are also small fountains where you can refill it.
• Wear sunscreen or a hat. Visiting the Colosseum takes place almost completely open-air so in summer make sure you don’t forget to wear sunscreen or a hat.

Wondering where to eat near the Colosseum? Check out our list of the top restaurants!

SAVE IT FOR LATER?

About The Author: Angela Corrias

Birthday of Rome, All You Need to Know About the 21st of April in Rome (2024)

Rome in 2 Days: How to Make the Best of a Weekend in Rome

Rome Public Transport – Easy and Complete Guide

12 Best Cooking Classes in Rome – How to Make the Perfect Pasta and Pizza in Italy

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Venice Private Tours

Venice food tours, st. mark’s basilica, murano & burano, gondola tours, doge’s palace, st. peter’s basilica, st. peter's dome, sistine chapel, raphael rooms, private tours, pompeii from rome, cooking classes, colosseum underground, paris food tours, eiffel tower, statue of liberty, nyc food tours, metropolitan museum (met), central park, last supper, lake como from milan, windsor castle, westminster abbey, tower of london, harry potter, changing of the guard, vegas shows, the grand canyon, uffizi gallery, tuscan wine tours, statue of david, florence food tours, florence duomo, accademia gallery, sagrada familia, montserrat from barcelona, casa batllo, barcelona food tours, barcelona boat tours, athens food tours, rijksmuseum tours, amsterdam food tours, amalfi coast, water & boat tours, sorrento boat tours, capri boat tours, the best colosseum tours in rome, book top rated colosseum tours with skip-the-line entry and special access to the underground, arena floor, and more.

Built almost 2,000 years ago using the spoils of war in Jerusalem, the Colosseum’s official name is actually Flavian Amphitheater— named after the Flavian dynasty of Emperors who ordered its construction. The ancient arena once held up to 85,000 spectators and hosted bloody gladiator battles, wild animal hunts, public executions, and was even filled with water for a mock sea battle on at least one occasion! Admission to the Colosseum includes entry to Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, among the world's most significant archeological sites. The structures are right in Rome's center and easy to get to. Most of our tours include all the archeological sites at varied durations, but three hours on average. If the word "tour" is in the title then it definitely includes an English-speaking Colosseum guide. The Colosseum Underground tour is perfect for anyone who wants to do the most exclusive product, but be prepared to jump through some hoops. Tickets are difficult to come by so all visitors are asked to leave the purchase date of the tour open in case of a time change. The Arena floor is the second most exclusive product which visits the same stage the gladiators fought on. Finally, our Privileged Entrance Colosseum tour is our most affordable tour and a great value! It's easy to find our meeting points, and you'll always find an attendant with a sign reading "The Tour Guy" or "The Roman Guy" on it. Our Welcome Staff are friendly and will improve your overall experience. Our guides are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do which shows in the reviews. With special access and our expert guides, you can get more from your Colosseum tour. Explore underground tunnels, walk through the Gladiator’s Gate onto the battle floor, or take in the beauty of the Colosseum under lights on a night tour. Just choose your ideal Colosseum tour and leave the rest to us!

Rome is busy in the summer, which can be a challenge for visitors. Our Colosseum tours include skip-the-line entry which gives you a break from crowds. We also offer special access to areas like the underground and the arena floor. All tours include admission tickets to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. Look out for tours like Rome in a Day which also includes the Vatican and Sistine Chapel. Built almost 2,000 years ago using the spoils of war in Jerusalem, the Colosseum’s official name is actually Flavian Amphitheater— named after the Flavian dynasty of Emperors who ordered its construction. The ancient arena once held up to 85,000 spectators and hosted bloody gladiator battles, wild animal hunts, public executions, and was even filled with water for a mock sea battle on at least one occasion! Admission to the Colosseum includes entry to Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, among the world's most significant archeological sites. The structures are right in Rome's center and easy to get to. Most of our tours include all the archeological sites at varied durations, but three hours on average. If the word "tour" is in the title then it definitely includes an English-speaking Colosseum guide. The Colosseum Underground tour is perfect for anyone who wants to do the most exclusive product, but be prepared to jump through some hoops. Tickets are difficult to come by so all visitors are asked to leave the purchase date of the tour open in case of a time change. The Arena floor is the second most exclusive product which visits the same stage the gladiators fought on. Finally, our Privileged Entrance Colosseum tour is our most affordable tour and a great value! It's easy to find our meeting points, and you'll always find an attendant with a sign reading "The Tour Guy" or "The Roman Guy" on it. Our Welcome Staff are friendly and will improve your overall experience. Our guides are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do which shows in the reviews. With special access and our expert guides, you can get more from your Colosseum tour. Explore underground tunnels, walk through the Gladiator’s Gate onto the battle floor, or take in the beauty of the Colosseum under lights on a night tour. Just choose your ideal Colosseum tour and leave the rest to us!

Filter by the price per person

20 results found

Skip the Line

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Explore the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!

( 1455 ) as low as $155.15

Exclusive Access

Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour through the Gladiator's Gate

Walk in the footsteps of gladiators on the Colosseum floor and see the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

( 1707 ) as low as $69.77

Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Get special access to the Underground dungeons and Arena Floor on this guided small group tour

( 948 ) From: $176.99

Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Skip the line at the Colosseum, plus Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!

( 510 ) From: $63.27

3-Hour Scenic Golf Cart Tour of Rome in a Small Group

Experience the Eternal City in complete comfort with stops at 8 iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites

( 19 ) From: $166.50

Private Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Vatican Museums

See the best of Rome your way with a private guide at the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, and more!

( 53 ) From: $1,107.78

Private Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

See the Colosseum and ancient Rome like a VIP, the Temple of Caesar, and more!

( 192 ) From: $498.39

Meet your guide at Piazza Barberini​

Golf Cart Tour of Rome with Pizza and Gelato Dinner

Indulge in authentic Italian pizza, savor gelato, and whizz between Pantheon, Trastevere and more

From: $230.88

Europe is re-opening for visitors!

Want to see which small group tours are now operating ?

More tours added weekly!

See Open Tours

• Italy Travel Blog
• In The Press
• Top Attractions

Policy & Terms

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• USA or Canada: +1 888 290 5595
• Email: [email protected]

© 2024 - The Roman Guy All rights reserved.

15 BEST Colosseum Tours in Rome (selected by an Italian)

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: October 5, 2023

Categories Europe , Italy

Looking for memorable Colosseum tours in Rome? I have compiled a list of the very best options, ranging from private and family-friendly tours to express ones. Check them out!

Rome is an enchanting and very historical city known for many (many!) things. But one of the most important landmarks it boasts is, without a doubt, the Colosseum. 

This world-renowned attraction acts as a gateway to discover the history and customs of Ancient Rome, and it’s an absolutely must-visit for any visitor. Whether you’re in Rome for three days or just one, the Colosseum is likely on your to-visit list. 

As soon as you step foot inside it you’ll be transported back in time, especially as your guide will be providing the most fascinating stories about the beloved building , which goes back all the way to the 80 AD.  

In this article, you’ll find a comprehensive list of the best Colosseum tours in Rome that offer memorable visits to the site. Most also take you to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, and some provide a full-day adventure around Rome, checking out all of its important places and even the Vatican. So read on, and take your pick!

👉 Why trust my recommendations? Born and bred in nearby Bologna, Italy’s historic legacy is in my veins. Having wandered Rome and marveled at the Colosseum multiple times, I understand its significance and allure. With a decade of experience, I carefully select tours that dive deep into Rome’s gladiator history in an easy and engaging way.

I generally use Viator , Get Your Guide , and Walks to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy, which allows you to cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. 

Table of Contents

OUR PICKS: The BEST Colosseum Tours in Rome

▶️ Unearth the ancient grandeur of Rome on this Skip the Line: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour . Led by an expert historian, tour the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum, discovering the well-preserved remains of the Roman Empire. 

Delight in tales of gladiator battles and political intrigue amid stunning ruins, enjoy the sweeping views from the Palatine Hill, where it’s said that Romulus founded the city, and immerse yourself in the vibrant history of the Forum, the heart of Ancient Rome. 

With fast-track tickets, you’ll save precious time by skipping all lines and heading straight to the attractions. For an even deeper Colosseum experience, upgrade to access the exclusive Arena Floor where gladiatorial games, staged hunts, and simulated sea battles took place. 

📝 This tour includes : An expert guide, skip-the-line tickets, headsets, and a guided visit of the Colosseum. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Step into the shoes of ancient fighters and conquer the Colosseum with this Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor . Hear spine-tingling stories of gladiator battles as you follow their steps, and gaze over the first level where roaring crowds once cheered for bloodshed. 

Then, venture to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, very well-preserved ruins that will be brought back to life with your guide’s stories about their past. Fast-track entry, legendary history, and all the excitement of ancient Rome are packed into one epic adventure in this tour that will provide incredible knowledge.

📝 This Colosseum guided tour includes : A local guide, a walking tour, a headset, and entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Experience the Colosseum like never before on this hassle-free Small-Group Colosseum Underground Tour in Rome, Arena and Forum . Skip the long lines and dive into exclusive areas of the Colosseum, including its underground and the impressive Arena with a knowledgeable guide.

Walk in the footsteps of Gladiators and witness ancient Roman engineering marvels before making your way to the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient civilization. Stroll along the historic Palatine Hill for stunning views, and uncover the secrets of Rome’s history while enjoying the best sights from a bird’s eye viewpoint.

📝 This Colosseum guided tour includes : Fast-track entrance tickets, a guide, earphones, and a guided tour of both sites. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Colosseum Private Tours

▶️ Discover Rome’s iconic landmarks like a VIP with this Private Tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome . Say goodbye to long queues, and hello to skip-the-line access and hotel pickup for the ultimate hassle-free experience. 

Your expert guide will regale you with fascinating tales of gladiator games, wild beast fights, and ancient emperors as you explore the 60,000-seat amphitheater. Then, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Roman Forum. Here, the ruins of temples, basilicas, and public squares offer glimpses into the bygone Roman life.

Customize your tour and get ready for a history-packed adventure with personalized attention. It’s a Colosseum and Forum tour like no other!

📝 This Private Colosseum tour includes : A private walking tour, a guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and skip-the-line tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Discover the world of gladiators and political schemes on this Ancient Rome and Colosseum Private Tour with Underground Chambers and Arena . You’ll enjoy skip-the-line tickets to access the famous landmark, and with a private guide by your side dive into a tour that will take you to hidden corners and least-visited areas of the Colosseum. 

You’ll get to explore the enigmatic underground chambers of the building, and step onto the Arena Floor where the mighty fights took place. Ascend to the Colosseum’s Upper Level for stunning views of the place. 

Then, make your way to Palatine Hill, where emperors used to live, and unearth the secrets of the Roman Forum—the historic hub of politics, religion, and finance of the Roman Empire. 

📝 This Rome underground tour includes : Skip-the-line tickets, Colosseum Underground tour, access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Rome Colosseum Tour with Pick Up

▶️ The Skip the Line Colosseum Tour, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with Pick-up is an ideal excursion for history buffs. It starts with convenient pick-up at your hotel and with a tour of the Colosseum, where you’ll get to admire its grandeur from up close. 

Your guide will provide insightful commentary throughout the visit, informing you of the various uses the Colosseum had, and showing you around Rome’s most iconic attraction. 

You’ll then head to the historic Roman Forum, which acted as the epicenter of ancient Rome, and also ascend the legendary Palatine Hill for astounding views. Along the way, you’ll pass by other impressive landmarks such as the Arch of Constantine and Via Sacra. 

📝 This Rome Colosseum tour includes : Hotel pick-up, a professional guide, headsets, and skip-the-line tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Colosseum Tour with Virtual Reality

▶️ Uncover the Colosseum’s hidden gladiator entrance and stand on the Arena Floor where ancient battles roared with this Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome | Semi Private Tour . After a comprehensive tour of the most magnificent Roman landmark, make your way to the Roman Forum. 

Amid the ruins of what once was the political hub of Rome, witness the remains of the temples and governmental buildings, all the while learning about the site’s history from your guide. Climb Palatine Hill for breathtaking views of the Circus Maximus, and explore the lavish ruins of Emperor Augustus’ majestic villa. 

📝 This tour includes : An expert guide, skip-the-line tickets, and access to the Colosseum’s Arena through the Gladiator’s Gate. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Evening Tour of the Colosseum in Rome 

▶️ This exclusive Colosseum with Arena Floor Evening Tour in Rome offers a fantastic opportunity to marvel at the landmark under the sunset’s beautiful hues, conveying it a magical appearance. 

Accompanied by a guide, you’ll beat the crowds and take in the spectacular views from the Colosseum’s upper level. Admire ancient graffiti on the arena floor, and be in awe at the captivating stories you’ll hear about the place and its history.  

The trip includes a hassle-free stroll along the Roman Forum, where you’ll get to check out its temples, sanctuary, and arches. 

📝 This Colosseum at night tour includes : Skip-the-line entry, access to the Arena Floor, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Limited Time? Express Tours of the Colosseum

▶️ Conquer Rome’s iconic Colosseum in record time with this 1 Hour Colosseum Tour with Arena Express . Skip the lines and access the landmark through the exclusive Gladiator Gate. Walk in the footsteps of ancient fighters on the Arena Stage, and ascend to the majestic first and second tiers for panoramic views. 

This express tour is led by an expert guide so you get to experience the grandeur of the Colosseum without missing a beat, all the while learning about it. It’s ideal for time-crunched history buffs and first-time Rome adventurers!

📝 This tour includes : A guide, and skip-the-line entry tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ A great alternative is the Rome: Colosseum Express Tour with Priority Entrance . You’ll bypass all the lines to the attraction, and marvel at the impressive structure while exploring its two main levels. 

A knowledgeable guide will regal you with stories about the Colosseum and the events that took place there, after the visit you’ll head to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. The Forum used to be the center of commerce and politics in Rome, and the ruins that remain are impressive, while Palatine Hill offers an amazing vantage point. The overall tour takes no longer than 1 hour. 

📝 This tour includes : A guide, skip-the-line tickets, and a headset. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Kid-Friendly Tours To the Colosseum

▶️ This Skip-the-line Colosseum Forum Ancient Rome Small Group Tour for Kids & Families is the tour for travelers with children. 

You’ll enjoy maximum interaction and learning with this kid-friendly Colosseum tour in Rome that caters to both grown-ups and little ones. Step into the magnificent landmark and hear tales about the gladiators and ancient shows that occurred in the arena.  

You’ll then explore the political heart of Ancient Rome at the Roman Forum. Games, quizzes, and treasure hunts will be organized to keep the children entertained and interested in the guide’s captivating tales about Rome’s history. 

📝 This tour includes : A guide, skip-the-line tickets, and children’s activities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Join a Colosseum Gladiator Tour for Kids and Families to watch as your children dive headfirst into the world of mighty gladiators. The activity includes interactive history lessons delivered by a friendly guide, enthralling all participants with the tales of Flavius Attilius, beast fights, and warriors. 

The fun quizzes will challenge and educate the young minds as you explore the impressive Colosseum. The journey is bound to leave the family with a newfound interest in Roman culture, and memories to cherish. 

📝 This Gladiator tour in Rome includes : Skip-the-line access to the Colosseum, and an expert, kid-friendly guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Comprehensive Rome Tours with Colosseum

▶️ Embark on a fantastic excursion around the city with this Rome in a Day: Colosseum, Vatican & Historic Rome Small-Group Skip-the-Line Tour . You’ll skip all lines to access the Colosseum, one of the Roman Empire’s most important landmarks, and learn about the shows and battles that took place in its arena. 

Continue immersing yourself in history with a visit to the Roman Forum and the Pantheon, and then stroll past Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain for pictures. After a break for lunch, be awestruck by the Vatican’s artistic treasures, which include a few Michelangelo’s pieces in the Sistine Chapel. 

This extensive tour covers the best there is to see in Rome, so it’s perfect for first-time visitors and travelers with limited time. 

📝 This Vatican and Colosseum combo tour includes : Skip-the-line tickets for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Vatican Museums, a guide, and a headset if needed. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ The Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican and Colosseum allows you to unravel the wonders of the city in just seven hours with a group of other enthusiast travelers. 

Enjoy VIP access to the major landmarks, and learn about the history and culture of Rome from your knowledgeable guide. You’ll discover all there’s to know about the gladiator fights at the Colosseum’s Arena, wander amid ruins at the Roman Forum, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountains. 

The tour also includes a stop at Piazza Navona, and a trip to the Vatican. There you’ll get to marvel at Raphael’s masterpieces, Michelangelo’s work at the Sistine Chapel, and the impressive St. Peter’s Basilica. 

📝 This tour includes :  Skip-the-line access to all attractions, a walking tour around the city’s center, free time for lunch (own expense), and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ The Best of Rome: Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps & Roman Pizza is a comprehensive tour of the city that encompasses not only the major attractions…but also the best food!

Step into the Eternal City’s history as your knowledgeable guide leads the group around its beautiful landmarks, which include the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, the Arch of Constantine, and the Jewish Quarter. 

Pop by a neighborhood pizzeria for three samples of delicious Roman pizza, and then make your way to the Colosseum. As you marvel at its Arena and tiers, learn about the bloody battles that were held there, and visit the Roman Forum. 

📝 This tour includes : A walking tour, a guide, pizza tasting, and skip-the-line tickets.  ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Colosseum Tours in Rome FAQs

In my opinion, Skip the Line: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour is the most comprehensive, and overall best Colosseum tour. 

The entry fee for the Colosseum is 16€, and it includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. 

I highly recommend joining a tour so that you can fully understand the Colosseum’s history and the role it played in Ancient Rome, and hear captivating – and often times unbelievable – stories about the events that took place there. 

The Colosseum is free to visit on the first Sunday of every month. 

I think that these are the best Colosseum tours available:  • Skip the Line: Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour • Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor • Small-Group Colosseum Underground Tour in Rome, Arena and Forum

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

Sign me up for the monthly newsletter!

12 of the Best Colosseum Tours in Rome 2024

Have you been wondering about the best colosseum tours in rome i’ve got you covered.

Having lived in Europe and spent some time in Italy, the Colosseum was one of my favourite people-watching spots. It’s a place of immense history and culture, and I always felt a fantastic sense of history when stepping inside its walls.

Knowing how famous the Colosseum is as a tourist destination, I understand why you might be uncertain about which tour to take when visiting Rome!

There are a lot of various tours on offer to ensure that everyone can experience the Colosseum as much or as little as you want.

From shorter guided tours with plenty of chances to learn about key moments in Roman history to more immersive experiences with opportunities for longer stays at various sites within the ruins, there’s something for every kind of traveller looking to explore this amazing monument.

No matter what kind of visit you’re looking for, these awesome tours will ensure your experience is unforgettable.

Check out the below suggestions for the best tours of the Colosseum while you’re in Rome.

Plan your trip?

Avoid hidden fees in the exchange rate while withdrawing from millions of ATMs abroad, paying in restaurants and shops, and buying your accommodation and flights using the Wise Card . You can hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries, and convert them in real time with the free Wise app.

Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Don’t be silly and forget Travel Insurance ! Get hurt and you’ll regret it…

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

Table of Contents

My Top 3 Picks: Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour

• Skip the line
• Entry tickets included

Tour Of Colosseum Underground, Arena And Forum

• Small group
• Fast track entrance tickets

Colosseum And Roman Forum Tour

• Perfect for families

12 of the Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

1.   skip the line: colosseum, roman forum & palatine hill guided tour.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  3 hours | ✅  Book it!

Skip the long lines and get straight into the iconic Colosseum Arena, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with this all-in-one guided tour. You’ll learn interesting insights about these surviving structures of the Eternal City and gain an understanding about what really took place here all those years ago.

“Wonderful walking tour – there are so many things to see, so much history, so many stories that you’d never get without a guide. Highly recommended, and plan to stay in the Forum and Palatine Hill after the tour ends, so bring snacks and water!” – mcsimon3

Start your Ancient Rome tour by one of the Seven Hills of Rome, Oppian Hill, for a gorgeous view of the Colosseum. Skip the main entrance line and walk down the arena with your local guide.

Explore the first and second tiers of the Colosseum and wander around the famous amphitheatre as you listen to tales about the brutal gladiator battles and even the gory executions that once took place here.

After the Colosseum, you’ll head over to the Roman Forum to see the House of the Vestal Virgins and the Temple of Julius Caesar up close.

Lastly, walk up Palatine Hill to get a glimpse of the ruins of Circus Maximus. Although the guided tour ends here, you can stick around afterwards and continue to explore the area on your own. 

If you are interested in a more thorough tour, there is an optional upgrade for a semi-private tour. You’ll get to explore the Colosseum Arena floor, see where the Emperor’s box once stood, and even visit the underground area where the gladiatorial games and staged hunts were prepared.

Important details

• Start time and location: A pre-organised time at Largo Gaetana Agnesi
• Duration: 3 hours
• Includes: Skip the line Colosseum tickets (with the Arena included  Palatine Hillin semi-private tours), skip the line entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, a tour by a professional local guide, and headsets to hear your guide clearly

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

2. Small-Group Tour Of Colosseum Underground, Arena And Forum

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  3 hours | ✅  Book it!

One of the best Colosseum underground tours is this 3-hour adventure with Touriks. On this small group tour, explore restricted areas that regular ticket holders don’t get to see, including the underground area, the Arena, and the Roman Forum. You’ll be given headsets so you can hear your guide’s commentary clearly.

“Federica was brilliant. Her passion for archaeology was infectious. The moon was full, the colosseum was empty, and it truly felt like we were traveling back into history.” – Joseph_N

Avoid the busy lines and begin your tour by heading to the exclusive Arena floor. Go backstage to the underground section and imagine you are a gladiator preparing for a game in Ancient Rome.

Your guide will teach you all about the social and political importance of the amphitheatre, as well as the innovative techniques used to build this iconic attraction.

Lastly, visit the top tier of the Colosseum to admire some amazing views. See if you can spot the Temple of Venus and the Arch of Constantine, which you’ll walk under later on.

Take a short break to rest or explore around on your own before walking with your group to the Roman Forums for the rest of the tour.

Immerse yourself in the ruins of the Forum and discover the Senate House where the fate of the Roman Empire was determined. You’ll also get to see the Gardens of the Vestal Virgins, the pagan temple of Goddess Vesta, and a whole lot more. 

Finally, walk the path to Palatine Hill, once considered the most exclusive area of Ancient Rome. The bird’s eye view here across the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus is a once in a lifetime experience, so make sure to take it all in and enjoy the present moment. 

• Start time and location: A prearranged time at Piazza del Colosseo, outside the ground floor exit of the metro
• Includes: Fast-tracked entrance, a guided tour through the underground area of the Colosseum and the Arena floor, a guided tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, sterilised headphones to hear your guide’s commentary, the option for a nighttime tour

3. Skip-The-Lines Colosseum And Roman Forum Tour For Kids And Families

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

Are you travelling to Rome with young kids and are worried about keeping them entertained? Looking for best Colosseum tours in Rome for families? This tour is specifically designed with families in mind, making it the best way to see the Colosseum when travelling with little ones.

You can select from either a small group or a private tour, both of which allow for plenty of personal attention from your guide. You’ll also get to avoid waiting in long lines in the hot sun!

The entrance tickets you’ll receive are valid for two days, meaning you can come back again after the tour if you wish.

“This was a very educational and kids friendly tour. We were three families with kids and the guide kept all the kids entertained with quizzes and games about Roman history.” – Oktay_V

Meet your guide near the Colosseum and head straight inside. Your guide will teach you and your family about Roman history in a fun and engaging way, with age-appropriate stories about the gladiators and their battles against ferocious animals.

Next up, wander the cobbled streets of the Roman Forum, see the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, and visit the ruins of the Emperor’s Palace.

The Basilica of Maxentius, the largest building the Forum, is one of the highlights for both kids and adults. Being outside, the young ones will be able to explore around the ruins and let their imagination run wild. 

Important details 

• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Includes: Skip the line tickets, and an entertaining guide who specialises in kid-friendly tours for families 

4. Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour With Arena Floor

This special access Colosseum tour allows you to enter the Colosseum’s Arena through the Gladiator’s Gate. Gain a unique perspective as you discover the viewpoints of both the gladiators and the spectators while you hear tales of ruthlessness from a local guide.

“Such a great time with knowledgeable guide! Even held tight in the rain and continued the tour! So thoughtful of others.” – Nichole_E

Walk right past the main entrance lines and enter the Arena via the Gladiator’s Gate. Your guide will recount fascinating tales about the gladiators who fought to their death here, before heading up to the first floor where spectators once witnessed it all.

Listen to some more stories about Imperial-era Rome as you walk over to the Forum, once a hub for political activity. With your guide, look around the main ruins and monuments that still remain in this ancient plaza. 

• Start time and location: A prearranged time at the entrance of Colle Oppio Park at Via delle Terme di Tito, 72
• Includes: A group of maximum 24 people, an expert English-speaking guide, a headset, and a Colosseum entrance ticket 

5. VIP Colosseum Tour

Those looking for a fast-tracked, small group sightseeing trip shouldn’t miss this VIP Colosseum underground tour. It will typically begin at the Colosseum and end at the Roman Forum, although the order is sometimes switched depending on ticket availability and how far in advance you book.

Although you’ll see three amazing attractions in three hours, this tour is quite relaxed, thanks to the fantastic guides and the skip the line entry.

If you are easily overwhelmed at popular tourist sites and don’t know what to look out for, this VIP tour can help you enjoy your sightseeing without the stress.

“Barbara was wonderful. She was so very knowledgeable. She also kept the tour fun and light. The tour moved quickly, but there was plenty of time for photos and questions. She was extremely thorough! It was a great day all around!” – Sarah_T

At the Colosseum, your English-speaking guide will bring this ancient world to life with fascinating stories and intimate insights. Discover the birthplace of Rome at Palatine Hill and look out at the Circus Maximus, an ancient stadium used for chariot racing.

After wandering around the ruins beneath the tall pine trees, walk the Via Sacra and the Via Nova, historic roads from the Roman Empire that lead to the Forum. With their extensive knowledge and passion about the subject, you’ll get a sense of what day-to-day life was like for Romans here. 

• Start time and location: A prearranged time at the Arch of Constantine
• Includes: Skip the line entrance to the Colosseum and a VIP guided tour

6. Moonlight Tour Of The Colosseum And Ancient Rome

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

One of the most unforgettable memories you can make in Rome is seeing the Colosseum at night. Lasting over two hours and beginning with a little walking tour of Rome, this is the longest and best Colosseum night tour currently on offer.

With a maximum of 25 people in your group, gain exclusive access to the Colosseum after it closes to the general public. While impressive during the daytime, the ruins look even more spectacular underneath the moonlight. 

“I highly recommend this tour, especially in the summer when the days are so hot! This was our second time doing this tour. I really enjoyed the appetizers and wine beforehand and loved our very enthusiastic and energetic tour guide, Fi! Being able to go into the Colosseum after dark, when it is closed to the public, is pretty magical!” – David_B

Indulge in some drinks and snacks at the meeting point before walking along Via dei Fori Imperiali, one of the most iconic streets in Rome.

Once you’ve arrived at the Colosseum, you’ll begin a 90-minute guided tour of the restricted areas. This includes a Colosseum underground tour as well as the Arena Floor. See the ruins beautifully lit up with lights as the sun sets and explore the amphitheatre’s dungeons.

• Start time and location: 6:45 pm at Santi Cosma e Damiano
• Includes: After-hours admission to the Colosseum Arena and underground areas, with a headset to hear commentary by a professional guide

7. Colosseum Night Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

If you have less time in the evening or want an in-depth tour without dealing with the busy crowds, take this Colosseum night tour run by Discover Rome Tours.

“What an amazing experience! Definitely recommend the night tour. Felt as if we had the place to ourselves. There were only about 15 people total in our small group, then only encountered about six other groups throughout our hour-plus tour. Our guide was awesome! Definitely recommend this night option. Plus, you beat the heat!” – Leslie_D

This group tour will have a maximum of 25 participants, so with only a few other night tours running simultaneously, you will easily avoid the hordes of other tourists that come here during the daytime. 

Follow your guide around the Colosseum as it is beautifully lit up at night and learn interesting info on the history of this great amphitheatre. The highlight of the tour is getting to walk through the underground gladiator tunnels, which were only opened to the public in 2021.

• Start time: A prearranged time in the evening outside the Colosseo Metro Station
• Duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes 
• Includes: Skip the line entrance tickets to the Colosseum with an official tour guide and a group coordinator 

8. Private Tour Of Colosseo

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  1 hour 15 mins | ✅  Book it!

This is the ultimate choice for those seeking a Colosseum private tour. Other than the benefit of getting one-on-one time with your own tour guide, you can also choose a morning or afternoon start time that will fit around your itinerary.

This is easily one of the best Colosseum tours if you are looking for a more personal experience.

In addition to English, this tour is also offered in Italian, French, Spanish, German and Japanese upon request. It is also wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly. 

“Maria was a flawless tour guide. Highly recommend the experience if you’re looking for a solid day at the Colosseum and Roman Forum.” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer

With pre-booked admission, you can skip the line and start seeing the highlights of the Colosseum with your private guide. After a cup of Italian coffee, you’ll get an overview of the ancient amphitheatre and spend about 45 minutes with your guide.

All of the guides with Arena Tours are passionate and knowledgeable about ancient Rome and can answer any questions you might have along the way.

They will also give you plenty of information about the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which you can visit on your own after the tour has finished. 

• Start time: Any chosen time from the front of the Colosseo Metro Station’s upper floor
• Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes 
• Includes: All entrance fees into the Colosseum and a private tour

9. Ultimate Colosseum Small Group Tour

With your skip the line tickets on this ultimate Colosseum tour, you will save an estimated two hours that would be otherwise spent waiting in the hot sun.

Limited to 10 participants, this is one of the best tours of the Colosseum in Rome for travellers seeking a small group experience. It offers a chance to have a chat with both the guide as well as some other tourists.

Remember to bring your ID and show up at least 20 minutes before your start time!

“This was an outstanding tour, especially due to the ton of knowledge and insight from our incredible guide Simona Mariotti. She has a true passion for the history of Rome, and I learned so much in this tour. This sights were amazing, but the knowledge I also gained is what I will always remember. Thanks for making this experience so great!” – Doug_C

With your priority entrance, you can jump straight into 80 AD and learn about one of Europe’s most recognisable attractions. While admiring the Colosseum, you can ask your guide any questions. Your tour at this iconic Roman structure will typically last around 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Next, it’s on to the Roman Forum. Stand in the centre of the plaza and get a glimpse at the surrounding government buildings.

This was once the centre of Roman life, so you’ll gain an understanding of how the citizens of Rome once lived. After about half an hour, spend some time at Palatine Hill looking at the stunning views of the city and ask your guide any final questions you might have.

• Start time: A prearranged time near the upper floor exit of the Colosseo Metro Station
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes 
• Includes: Colosseum Privileged Entrance Ticket, Exclusive Partner Entrance Access, priority entrance for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, a headset and an official tour guide

10. Colosseum Express Skip-The-Line Guided Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  1 hour 15 mins | ✅  Book it!

If you have limited time in Rome, this express tour operated by City Walkers is perfect for you. With a maximum of 24 other travellers, you’ll skip the line and get a quick and easy intro to the Colosseum, plus some pics for Instagram!

“Great tour and great way to skip the line! Finding the tour was a bit confusing but it was very organized, the group we were in was maybe 15 people and our tour guide Alessandra was the best! She was so nice and knowledgeable, and it was so sweet how she included kids on the tour and checked up on everyone. I’d recommend this tour for sure!” – Camilla_B

Despite this tour lasting just over an hour, it will appear to go by even quicker thanks to the engaging and enthusiastic guides.

After skipping the line, you’ll hear some interesting stories and gain local tips and recommendations, such as where to find the best views in the city. The guides are also superb at helping you get some amazing photos. 

These Colosseum tour tickets also include entrance into the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which you can go to after the tour if your schedule permits.

• Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Includes: Tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with an official tour guide

11. Rome Combo: Colosseum & Forum With Rome Must-See Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  8 hours | ✅  Book it!

For travellers with plenty of time in Rome, take advantage of this combination Colosseum and city walking tour.

You’ll get two separate tours for a discounted price, seeing the famous amphitheatre in the morning before exploring the city in the afternoon. Plus, it’s a great Colosseum guided tour option for those on a budget!

“Colosseum was amazing and Simone was a wonderful guide. In the afternoon Edy helped us see the sights. He was extremely knowledgeable and helpful.” – Angela_D

Combining two of the most popular tours in Rome into one ticket, you will really get your money’s worth with this “Rome Super Saver”!

In the morning, meet with your guide and take in the views from Oppian Hill. Jump the main entrance queue as you enter the Colosseum and walk around the first two levels of the Arena while listening to stories of brutal gladiator battles.

As you exit the amphitheatre, you’ll stop at the Arch of Constantine on your way to the Roman Forum. After spending some time at Palatine Hill, finish your three-hour tour at Via Sacra.

Take a break for lunch (at your own expense) before meeting up with your second guide at Piazza di Spagna in the afternoon.

This walking tour will take you around the historic centre of Rome, stopping at sights like the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Colonna and the Pantheon (though you won’t get to go inside, unfortunately).

This part of the tour typically lasts about two and a half hours. You’ll also get to wander through Piazza Navona and peruse the works of the many street artists.

• Start time: 10 am at Largo Gaetana Agnesi
• Duration: 8 hours 
• Includes: Skip the line entrance into the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, an English-speaking guide, and a stop for refreshments in the centre of Rome

12. Small-Group Ancient Rome And Colosseum Underground Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  1.5 – 3 hours | ✅  Book it!

This unforgettable tour of the underground chambers and gladiator tunnels gives you exclusive access to the Colosseum. It is the best Colosseum underground tour if you like things prompt and organised, as it always runs on time. ID is required, so don’t forget to bring your passport!

“This was a fantastic tour. We’ve been to the Colosseum before, but had never toured the underground area. It was very interesting to see it from a different perspective. Our tour guy, whose name I can’t remember, was full of stories and history from the different time periods. The Forum was also very interesting as well. This tour was an excellent value for the money. I highly recommend this tour.” – Linda_G

With this special tour, you’ll get to wander through areas of the Colosseum that are usually kept off-limits to other visitors.

See the underground chambers where wild animals were kept and walk the same path as the gladiators once paced while preparing for battle. Your guide will tell plenty of tales about the bloodthirsty crowds and the emperors who cheered on these games.

Next, change the mood a bit with a trip to the Roman Forum, which centred around political life and religion. Learn about life in Imperial Rome as you view the ruins of temples, basilicas and more. 

• Start time: A prearranged time in the morning or afternoon, by the lower level exit of the Colosseo Metro Station
• Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes to 3 hours
• Includes: A tour of the Colosseum’s underground plus the first and second floors, an Ancient Rome guided tour, and skip the line tickets

FAQs About best roman colosseum tours

Is it worth getting a guided tour of the colosseum.

Yes, it is definitely worth getting a guided tour of the Colosseum! Guided tours will give you a better understanding of the site’s history and importance.

Not only will you learn about the Roman Empire and also gain insight into art, culture, and religion from thousands of years ago.

With your guide’s help, you can get to know more about how Romans lived in ancient times and explore all areas of the Colosseum.

You can even go up to higher levels for panoramic views or view special exhibitions held in the Colosseum, depending on when you visit. Visiting with a guided tour is definitely one of the best ways to experience this iconic destination that has been around since 80 AD!

what is the best way to see the colosseum in rome?

One of the best ways to see the Colosseum in Rome is to take a guided tour. Guided tours provide an overview of the history of the iconic structure and can help you understand more deeply its context within Roman culture.

Guided tours also offer the opportunity to explore areas that are not accessible on your own, such as underground chambers and passageways.

Additionally, some guided tours include access to special events, like gladiator fights or reenactments of ancient battles.

is the colosseum worth visiting

The Colosseum is one of the greatest architectural achievements in history and absolutely worth visiting.

It’s not only a great way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Rome, but also an amazing sight to see; you can feel the magnitude of it as soon as you arrive. It’s truly an iconic landmark on the world stage and an experience you won’t forget.

Final Thoughts: best colosseum tours rome

Rome’s Colosseum tours offer a unique experience, and there is no better way to appreciate its history than to walk through it.

With the right tour, you can access areas off-limits to the general public, such as the underground chambers!

Now is the time to book your tour and enjoy the incredible beauty of Rome’s iconic monument while learning about its secrets and long history.

Take advantage of this one-of-a-kind opportunity – book your Colosseum tour today for an unforgettable experience in Rome!

• Where to Stay in Rome  – Close to Famous Attractions
• Weird, Unusual and Unique Things to do in Rome  for First Time Travellers (Plus a Few Classics)
• 48 Hours in Rome – 2 Day Itinerary
• Best Day Trips from Rome
• Luxury Travel Guide to Rome
• 13 Of the Best Instagram photos in Rome & who to follow!
• Hotel Review of THE FIRST Luxury Art hotel Rome

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

View all posts

Similar Posts

48 Hours in Rome – 2 Day Itinerary

Rome, the jewel of Europe with its rich history and breath-taking architecture is the perfect long weekend getaway. The…

Where to stay in Siena [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

One of the most popular towns in Tuscany, Siena makes an excellent home base for exploring this beautiful region….

48 hours in Vienna – A 2 day Itinerary

Vienna, Austria is a must-visit city on any extended trip around Europe. It has everything! From opulent Baroque buildings,…

13 Things to do in Venice for Everyone

Venice is one of the world’s most romanticized cities, built on more than 100 small islands in the Venetian…

Where to stay in Catania [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

A trip to Sicily should always include a stay in Catania Sicily, the second-largest city on the island. Between…

Where to stay for Gubbio [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

“Traveling – It leaves you speechless and then turns you into a storyteller” – Ibn Battuta. You’re bound to…

10 BEST Colosseum Tours in Rome Italy for 2024

What are the best Colosseum tours in Rome? Is it worth getting a guided tour of the Colosseum?

As someone with a lot of experience scouting out the top ancient Rome tours for your next trip to Italy, I’m here to tell you that if you have even the slightest hint of historic enthusiasm in you, then you will definitely want to take a guided tour of the Colosseum.

However, with dozens of Colosseum tours in Rome to choose from, that would normally mean hours of research (usually spread out over multiple days or weeks) on your part. But, I’m here to change that!

I know how it feels to be stuck behind a computer doing travel research, especially if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for, which is why I analyzed all of the big and small local tour companies in Rome and found the top 10 Colosseum tours for your next trip.

Don’t have time to read the entire post? No problem!

The Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour is the #1 Colosseum tour in Rome on this list !

⭐ Over 3,300 5-star reviews! ⭐ Over 3 hours in duration! ⭐ Expert local guide!

This complete guided will save you hours of time and allows you to find the best tour option for you and your group without having to navigate through multiple tour company websites! I’ve vetted the reviews, ratings, and inclusions of each of the tours below, so no matter which one you choose, you know you’re picking a great option.

In this post, I’ve provided tours of all kinds including basic options that simply tour you around the iconic structure with an expert guide, while others provide exclusive access to restricted areas, behind-the-scenes information, and skip-the-line tickets!

I’ve also provided a ton of helpful information on when to visit, what to bring with you on the tour, and more at the bottom of the post. Let’s get started!

10 BEST Colosseum Tours 2024

✈︎1. colosseum underground and ancient rome semi-private tour max 6 people guaranteed.

Experience the Colosseum in a way few tourists get to with the Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour ! Limited to just six participants, this intimate tour delves into parts of the Colosseum many visitors never see.

Explore the hidden depths of this iconic structure, walking through the underground chambers once roamed by gladiators and wild animals… and even walk out into the arena! This is easily the #1 Colosseum tour for this reason alone in my opinion.

Additionally, this tour extends beyond the Colosseum, taking you into the heart of Ancient Rome. View the ruins of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, guided by an expert who brings history to life with their in-depth knowledge.

Skip-the-line tickets are an additional perk that ensures your experience is smooth and efficient, maximizing your time at each stop!

✈︎2. Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena and Forum

Uncover the hidden secrets of the iconic Colosseum on this expert-guided tour , which takes you to the depths of the Colosseum’s underground chambers, the heart-stopping Arena, and the historical Roman Forum!

With 3 hours in duration and skip-the-line entry ensuring maximum sightseeing, this is easily one of the best Colosseum tours for people of all ages. Your expert guide will teach you all about the fascinating history of this ancient structure and its importance in Roman society, all through the convenience of personal headsets!

This unique addition makes actually hearing the guide when they’re 20-30 feet away from you possible. Because let’s be honest, no matter when you decide to visit Italy, the Colosseum is likely going to be busy and a little loud, so I really like that they included personal headsets in this tour.

✈︎3. VIP Small Group Colosseum and Ancient City Tour

Experience the grandeur of Rome’s monumental heritage with this exclusive VIP Small Group Colosseum and Ancient City Tour ! This premium tour ensures an intimate, small-group experience as you explore the iconic Colosseum and its Arena, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

Your adventure continues through the heart of the Ancient City, where relics of a bygone era whisper tales of power, culture, and grandeur. With an expert guide to illuminate the past and skip-the-line tickets for time efficiency, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Rome’s rich tapestry of history in just 3 hours.

✈︎4. Skip-the-Lines Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour for Kids and Families

Embark on an unforgettable journey through history with our Skip-the-Lines Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour for Kids and Families ! Designed with young explorers in mind, this tour brings the ancient world to life, transporting children and adults alike back to the days of gladiators, emperors, and Roman soldiers.

By skipping the long queues, you’ll have more time to delve into the fascinating stories and secrets of these iconic historical landmarks. Interactive, educational, and engaging, this tour guarantees a memorable adventure for the whole family and is definitely the best Colosseum tour for families!

✈︎5. Colosseum Underground and Roman Forum Guided Tour

Venture deep into the heart of Rome’s history with the Colosseum Underground and Roman Forum Guided Tour . This exclusive exploration offers unparalleled access to the awe-inspiring underground chambers of the Colosseum, a labyrinth of hidden passageways and cells once inhabited by gladiators and wild beasts.

Then, journey back in time as you roam the ruins of the Roman Forum, the hub of ancient Roman life, where politics, commerce, and religious activities once thrived. Guided by a professional historian and the use of personal headsets (a massive perk!), you’ll uncover the secrets and stories of these iconic landmarks, gaining a unique perspective on Rome’s rich past.

With priority admission included, you’ll bypass the crowds and dive straight into your adventure, making this tour an essential experience for any history enthusiast or curious traveler and making it the best Colosseum tour underground.

✈︎6. Colosseum by Evening Guided Tour with Arena Floor

Experience the iconic Colosseum under the enchantment of the evening with the Colosseum by Evening Guided Tour with Arena Floor ! As dusk falls, witness the ancient amphitheater come alive with a magical, warmly-lit atmosphere that transports you back to the time of gladiators and emperors.

This 2-hour guided tour offers you exclusive access to the Arena Floor, where you’ll tread the same ground as the courageous gladiators once did. The evening setting not only provides an escape from the daytime crowds (and temperatures!) but also adds a dramatic dimension to the monument.

With an expert guide unfolding the fascinating tales of the Colosseum, this immersive small-group tour (20-person maximum) is a must-do for those wanting to experience a slice of Rome’s ancient history under a twilight sky.

✈︎7. Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

Probably one of the best Colosseum tours in Rome that you can take thanks to its over 2600 5-star reviews, the Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor grants you special access through the Gladiator’s Gate, straight onto the reconstructed Arena Floor!

Your expert guide will bring these brutal games to life with stories of the epic combats, the roaring crowds, and the gladiators’ fight for survival.

Beyond the Arena, explore the expansive first and second tiers of the Colosseum, getting a panoramic view of this architectural marvel and a first-hand perspective of where the crowds actually sat and cheered from!

With this tour, you don’t just visit the Colosseum, you experience it!

✈︎8. Private Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

The only tour on this list with hotel pick-up and drop-off, you’ll experience the grandeur of ancient Rome on a personalized level with the Private Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour !

This intimate journey through time provides you with an exclusive opportunity to admire these iconic landmarks in the company of your own private guide, whose expert commentary will illuminate the rich history of these remarkable sites.

Your tour will begin at your hotel, where your guide will pick you up directly, providing ease and convenience. You’ll then explore the Colosseum’s awe-inspiring structure, delving into the stories of the gladiators who once fought here.

Later, meander through the ruins of the Roman Forum, immersing yourself in the ambiance of what was once the bustling heart of ancient Rome. The personalized pace and focus of this tour make it an excellent choice for families or those seeking a more individualized experience.

✈︎9. Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome | Semi Private Max 6 People

Another phenomenally-rated tour with over 500 5-star reviews, the Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome tour is a unique, semi-private experience that’s capped at a maximum of six participants, and ensures personalized attention from your expert guide!

Step on the famed Arena Floor of the Colosseum, where you’ll practically hear the cheers from the massive ancient crowds and enjoy skip-the-line access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Then, dive deeper into Roman history as you tour the significant sites of ancient Rome.

The highlight? A virtual reality experience that vividly brings the past to life, offering a glimpse of Rome as it once was with the use of LivTours Cardboard Goggles! These audio-visual aids, included in the tour price, are used to enhance your experience with immersive re-creations of ancient Rome’s most iconic sites.

This truly is a one-of-a-kind adventure that is sure to make your Colosseum experience worthwhile!

✈︎10. Private Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Sistine Chapel: Essential Experience

Providing a comprehensive exploration of Rome’s greatest treasures, this Private Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Sistine Chapel is a must for anyone looking for a full-day Rome tour that includes the Colosseum!

As part of this tour, you gain privileged access to the Colosseum, the heart of the Vatican museums, the Roman Forum, and the Sistine Chapel! Bask in the breathtaking artistry of Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes, and marvel at the intricate tapestries and sculptures that fill the majestic halls.

Your private guide’s insightful commentary on this 7-hour private tour will illuminate the stories and secrets behind these iconic landmarks, immersing you in the past and making this a day to remember.

This all-encompassing tour is a perfect blend of historical exploration and awe-inspiring artistry that will leave you with a profound appreciation of Rome’s remarkable past. Plus, private transportation is included for the entire day!

FAQ: Best Colosseum Tours

In this next section, I’ll be providing some important information for your trip to Rome’s most famous landmark! Whether you want to know if it’s actually worth taking a guided tour of the Colosseum or when the best time to visit is, I’ve got you covered.

And after a long day of exploring, be sure to check out these 11 Top-Rated Food Tours in Rome if you’re looking for a local to show you the best authentic Italian in the city!

What is the Best Colosseum Tour to Take?

Personally, I’d say that the Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour is by far one of the top Colosseum tours you could take during your visit to Rome. With the underground access, you’ll gain unique insights into what life was like for gladiators and animals who once fought in the Colosseum.

Plus, with a maximum of six people per tour, it’s an intimate and personalized way to experience this iconic landmark at a very reasonable price.

However, if you’re interested in a tour that includes a unique virtual reality experience, then the Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome tour might be your top choice!

Ultimately, it’s best to consider what elements are most important to you – be it history, convenience, exclusivity, or interactivity – when selecting the best Colosseum tour for your visit.

Is It Worth Getting a Guided Tour of the Colosseum?

Yes, it is absolutely worth getting a guided tour of the Colosseum. While it is possible to explore the Colosseum independently, a guided tour offers a wealth of added value. Expert guides provide in-depth insights into the history and cultural significance of the site, bringing the ancient world to life with their knowledge and storytelling.

Tours often include access to areas of the Colosseum not open to general admission ticket holders, such as the Underground and the Arena Floor, further enhancing your experience.

Additionally, guided tours usually come with skip-the-line privileges, saving valuable time on your visit. Overall, a guided tour of the Colosseum is a worthwhile investment for a comprehensive and enriching experience.

What is the Best Website to Buy Colosseum Tickets?

The best website to buy Colosseum tickets in our opinion is Viator . This platform is user-friendly, secure, and reliable, offering a variety of tours including exclusive experiences like the Underground and Arena Floor access, or unique opportunities like virtual reality tours.

I’ve used Viator countless times for worldwide tour bookings and have never had a problem, which is why it’s the only tour website I use now.

The website provides detailed descriptions of each tour, customer reviews, and the ability to compare prices and inclusions. Plus, your tickets are immediately confirmed upon booking, making the process smooth and hassle-free!

You’ll have the option of special add-ons including skip-the-line entry, special access to otherwise blocked-off areas, and more!

Is the Colosseum Underground Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, the Colosseum Underground Tour is worth it! This tour grants you access to the parts of the Colosseum that are usually off-limits to the general public… the underground chambers!

These chambers were once the backstage of the grand shows, where gladiators prepared for battle and exotic animals were kept. A guide’s narration of the remarkable engineering feats and the dramatic events that unfolded here adds an extra layer of intrigue to your visit making the underground tour an unrivalled and immersive experience that’s well worth doing.

What Day of the Week is Best to Visit the Colosseum?

The best day to visit the Colosseum is generally mid-week, specifically on a Wednesday or Thursday. These days tend to be less crowded compared to weekends or the beginning of the week, providing a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Furthermore, arriving early in the morning, right when the gates open, can help you avoid peak crowd times and allow you to experience the Colosseum in relative peace. Particularly if you’ll be visiting in the summer months

However, crowd levels can vary based on the time of year and other factors, so it’s always a good idea to plan for a bit of a crowd and be pleasantly surprised if you timed your visit just right!

Is It Better to Go to the Colosseum in the Morning or Afternoon?

Visiting the Colosseum either in the early morning or late afternoon is typically the best choice. In the early morning, you’ll beat both the crowds and the heat of the day, which is especially beneficial during the summer months.

Accessing the Colosseum right when it opens provides a more serene, crowd-free environment to explore and truly appreciate the historical significance of the site. On the other hand, visiting in the late afternoon allows you to experience the Colosseum under the softer, golden light of the setting sun, which brings a unique beauty to the structure and makes for stunning photographs.

However, keep in mind that afternoon visits may be slightly more crowded than morning ones. Ultimately, the best time to visit the Colosseum depends on your personal preference and schedule.

Jump to the bottom of the post? No problem!

What Do You Wear to the Colosseum Tour?

When planning your outfit for a Colosseum tour, comfort should be your top priority. This means wearing comfortable walking shoes as you will likely be on your feet for several hours!

Lightweight clothing is advisable for the hot summer months, while layers are a good option for the cooler seasons. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen for sun protection (even in the winter). It’s also a good idea to bring a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella, as the weather in Rome can be unpredictable.

Remember, the Colosseum is a historical site, so dressing respectfully is always appreciated.

Other Helpful Italy Resources

15 BEST Amalfi Coast Boat Tours to Take in 2024 11 BEST Cinque Terre Boat Tours for 2024 11 BEST Wine Tours in Tuscany from Florence in 2024 12 BEST Naples Cooking Classes in Italy 2024 11 Top-Rated Vatican City Tours from Rome in 2024

The Colosseum is easily the number one most-visited attraction in Rome, and choosing the right tour can be quite the task if you aren’t sure what to look for.

Whether you opt for a guided tour with skip-the-line privileges, an exclusive access tour of the underground chambers, or a virtual reality experience, there are plenty of options to cater to all interests and preferences! So, don’t miss out on these 10 best Colosseum tours in Rome for your next Italian vacation.

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

The 7 Best Colosseum Tours [2024 Reviews]

Don't miss this marvel of roman engineering with a guided tour of the colosseum.

How much is it to tour the Colosseum in Rome? If you were to purchase a ticket when you arrive at this massive, ancient structure, it usually isn’t much more than 12 euros.

However, this general admission ticket doesn’t provide much value. These are some of the top Colosseum tours available. Several of these tours also include access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Some are guided, giving you more of the history and legends of the Colosseum.

Be sure to see our reviews of Amalfi Coast Day Trips , Vatican Tours and Tuscany Day Trips .

Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

We’ve chosen these top Colosseum tours because they offer a wide range of experiences and will fit into everyone’s budget.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Roman Colosseum Tours For 2024

• Ancient Rome: Colosseum and Roman Forum Private Tour
• Rome Colosseum by Night with Underground & Arena Floor Tour
• Skip the Line Colosseum Tour for Kids and families
• Rome Skip-the-Line Colosseum & Arena Floor Guided tour
• Skip-the-Line: Colosseum & Ancient Rome Walking Tour
• Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour
• Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena and Forum

Colosseum Tour Reviews

1. best colosseum private tour: ancient rome: colosseum and roman forum private tour.

• Departure Point : Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome
• Departure Time : Between 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Duration : 3 hours
• Includes : Skip-the-line access to Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, licensed tour guide

If you are looking for the best Colosseum underground tour that is also a private tour that allows you to skip the long lines, this is the one for you! Beginning at the iconic Colosseum, you’ll learn about the technological marvels of ancient Rome that allowed architects to build on such a massive scale.

Construction of the Colosseum includes the structure seen from above as well as underground. If your question is, “Can you tour the Roman Colosseum?” then your answer is, most definitely, yes.

Under the arena, you’ll explore the maze of tunnels and rooms where gladiators prepared to battle each other and wild animals, taking center stage above. This underground construction dates back to the 5 th -century AD.

On Via Sacra, in the Roman Forum, you’ll see ruins of ancient markets as well as those of several buildings that formed the government center. Today, the Roman Forum is referred to as the birthplace of ancient Rome.

After touring the Roman Forum, you’ll then head to Palatine Hill. Enjoy the panoramic views and take pictures of the city the ancient Roman soldiers called home and would finally see again, sometimes after years away during times of war or conquest. Palatine Hill is in the center of Rome and looks out at it in all directions.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best night colosseum tour: rome colosseum by night with underground & arena floor tour.

• Departure Point : Via del Colosseo 24
• Departure Time : 7:00 or 8:00 PM
• Duration : 2 hours
• Includes : Special nighttime access to the Colosseum, underground access, arena floor access, headsets

If you are looking for the best Colosseum night tour and avoid the crowds, this tour is for you. A tour of the Colosseum at night is an eerie experience and should not be missed!

With this tour you get a much more personal experience without the daytime crowds. Your guide will give you an intimate tour while explaining all the history of the Colosseum.

You will have plenty of time to explore independently with access to both the maze of tunnels and rooms underneath the arena and the second floor where the Emperor’s Box once was.

Once you are done with exploring the tunnels, you will then get to see the underground dungeons, where combatants waited their turn to do battle on the Colosseum floor.

You will also see the cages where the tigers were kept. Admire the amazing engineering skill of the ancient Romans where they created wooden elevators to transport the combatants and the tigers up to the Colosseum floor.

With the nighttime tour you will be able to almost hear the screaming crowds and sounds of the tigers!

Search For Other Top Rated Rome Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best colosseum family tour: skip the line colosseum tour for kids and families.

• Departure Point : Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM
• Departure Time : 1:00 PM
• Includes : Private guided tour with Priority access, professional archaeologist and historian guide

Families who would like to see the Colosseum will really appreciate this tour! This two hour tour with skip-the-line access is specifically designed with families in mind. The tour guides will give commentary that adults and children both will understand.

The guide make the history and significance interesting to your children to keep them interested. This private guided tour will give you more access and you won’t need to wait in lines to purchase admission tickets.

During your guided tour of the Colosseum, you will learn about the seating arrangements, by social class as well as wealth. The construction of the Colosseum took many years and technology new to the Roman Empire.

You’ll also learn of the gladiator games and see the underground rooms where they prepared. While the gladiatorial games were banned in 438, the violet fights between wild animals continued for nearly a century.

After your two-hour, guided tour of the Colosseum, you will be given your tickets to access both the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. While these tickets must be used on the same day as your Colosseum tour, you’ll also be provided with a map to help you explore the area.

4. Best Colosseum Budget Tour: Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

• Departure Point : Colosseo Metro Station, Line B Exit
• Departure Time : 10:40 AM, 1:20 PM
• Duration : 1 hour, 30 minutes (approx.)
• Includes : Small group tour with local guide, skip-the-line access, access to normally off-limits areas of the Colosseum

After meeting with your 5-star rating tour guide, you’ll head inside the Colosseum with your skip-the-line ticket. Your guide will tell you the history of the Colosseum and the role it played in ancient Rome.

While hearing the legends of the Colosseum re-told by an expert guide, you’ll be taken on a walk through the Gladiator’s Gate. This is the large gate that would open to allow the gladiator’s access to the arena, where they would fight to the death.

As you are guided around the open areas of the arena floor, a place usually not available to tourists, you’ll also be able to view the lift. This lift would open and bring many of the wild animals right into the middle of the arena.

The Colosseum was constructed in the 1 st -century and has stood the test of time. Your guide will give you the details on just what this iconic building has gone through over nearly 2,000 years of its history.

5. Best Colosseum Guided Tour: Rome Colosseum with Access to the Gladiator Arena

• Departure Time : 9:30 AM, 2:30 PM
• Duration : 3 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Expert tour guide, headsets, skip-the-line privileged access to the Colosseum and gladiator arena

If your goal is to see and learn the history of the Colosseum, this small-group, guided tour is ideal. Not only will you learn the history of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, you will learn about what life was like for both the wealthy and everyday citizens.

Your skip-the-line access will get into the Colosseum as your guide recounts the history of the most iconic structure of ancient Rome. Your headsets will allow you to hear your guide clearly.

While visiting the tomb of Julius Cesar, you’ll learn about many of ancient Rome’s emperor’s, some famous for their greatness and some notorious for their evil ways.

As you are touring the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, also with skip-the-line access, you’ll take a stroll down Via Sacra. This was the “Main Street” of ancient Rome. The ruins of many shops are still visible here, giving you an idea of life was like for the common folk.

6. Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour MAX 6 People Guaranteed

• Duration : 3.25 hours
• Departure : Piazza del Colosseo, 21, 00184 Rome
• Departure Time : 9:15 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:30 PM
• Includes : Small group size, head to underground and Colosseum arena, local expert guide, skip the line entry

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or it’s your first time in the city, you simply have to consider this next tour. The Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour will show you hidden secrets that lie beneath the surface of one of the most easily-identifiable, legendary structures in all of history.

Follow in the footsteps of everyone from gladiators to kings on this captivating tour with an expert guide to lead the way.

With incredible attention to detail and organization, our guide was able to practically transform time. In the time it could easily take to stand in line to see the Colosseum alone, we say the circular structure, along with Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum ruins.

With small group tours maxing out at just 6 people, it was an intimate experience with personalized attention that elevated this tour heads above almost all the rest.

Once we met up at the Colosseum Metro Station, we skipped past the line and headed straight into the depths of the famous landmark. The subterranean chambers are a labyrinth where wild animals and gladiators awaited their fates, and our guide regaled us with many emotional tales of some of the events that happened here.

Then, we headed up to the arena level where we actually got to head straight onto the original floor which most visitors don’t get the chance to do.

After the Colosseum, we traversed the cobbled streets of Ancient Rome, arriving at the Roman Forum where time seems suspended in the remnants of temples and government buildings. We then continued up to Palatine Hill, which is known as one of the Seven Hills of Rome and known for being the most opulent place to live, where the wealthiest Romans resided.

7. Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena and Forum

• Departure Time : Varies
• Includes : Fast track entrance tickets and reservation fees, guided tour of Underground and Arena of Colosseum, guided tour of Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, live expert guide, earphones, on-site assistance, night tour option available at Colosseum

If you’re traveling on a budget but still want to appreciate one of those “biggest bang for your buck” tours, look no further. The Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena and Forum is a 3-hour experience which completely transformed the knowledge of Rome I thought I had. It’s a fully-customizable, profound excursion that will take you to some of the most legendary sights in Rome.

Before I get started, I do want to mention that we had the option to book a private tour for a slightly higher fee, which I do feel is worth it. We met up with our guide at the Colosseum, where we decided to take the night tour option which is not commonly offered.

This means less crowds, and a more intimate experience that I feel lends more of an authentic vibe to the tour. We learned all about countless stories of emperors, senators, goddesses, gladiators, and so much more as we toured around.

We even got to step on the Arena floor and head down into the Underground section: two areas that most visitors don’t even get to touch.  We then headed to the ground level, where we learned all about the revolutionary construction techniques that had never been seen before this.

We had some free time to explore before taking a little break and heading to the archaeological area of the Roman Forums and Palatine Hill. Here, we were able to take another 1-hour guided tour which was actually perhaps my favorite part!

The ancient temple ruins and stories to accompany the sites were so fascinating, and lent valuable insight into religion and Ancient Rome’s penal system.

Palatine Hill looks quite different now, though the breathtaking views I’m sure were equally as impressive as they were when Rome’s wealthiest took up residence here!

FAQs About Colosseum Tours in Rome

In TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards 2020, Rome was ranked as the #3 Top Destination in the World. If you want to get the most out of your trip to Rome, it’s important to see the Colosseum. It is an iconic structure of ancient Rome and is a symbol of the culture of Rome as well. Visit the Colosseum and surrounding ancient buildings with a guided Colosseum tour.

What will I see in the Colosseum?

There are three levels in the Colosseum. The arena floor, the underground along with the third level can only be accessed with special tickets or guided tours.

• The first level is the arena floor, you can walk around and see the underground rooms and hallways where gladiators and animals were kept. Some parts of the arena area have been restored to give a better sense of what it was like in ancient times.
• The second level is where most of the spectators watched the events. Spectators were separated by social class and gender. Here you can check out the architecture and engineering of the Colosseum. There are some panoramic views of Rome as well.
• The third level is where the lower classes and women were seated. This level was finally reopened in 2017 after being closed for 40 years.

What is the best time to see the Roman Colosseum?

You should know the peak season (July and August), the weekends, and the public holidays, are the most crowded and expensive time to go. If you want to enjoy a more peaceful and cooler atmosphere, opt for the early morning or late afternoon tours, when the light is also more beautiful.

How long does a Colosseum tour last?

Most Colosseum tours are 1 to 3 hours. You can take tours that include access to the arena floor, the underground chambers and the upper levels. These tours are longer and more in-depth, but also more expensive and require advance booking.

What should I wear and bring to a Colosseum tour?

The Colosseum is mostly outdoors so you should dress according to the weather. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs. Bring your ID or passport.

Is it better to take a guided tour of the Colosseum?

A tour guide can bring the history of the Colosseum alive. You will have a professional and knowledgeable guide who will tell you stories and facts that you won’t find in any guidebook. You will also have priority access to skip the long lines at the entrance and save time. You will have the opportunity to ask questions of you guide.

What is the best Colosseum tour?

If you can afford to spend a bit more for a more personal experience we recommend the Ancient Rome: Colosseum and Roman Forum Private Tour . This is a private tour so it’s only your group on the tour so you get the full attention of the guide and able to ask as many questions as you like.

What is the cheapest tour of the Colosseum in Rome?

If you are on a strict budget and still want to have a guided tour of the Colosseum we recommend the Rome Skip-the-Line Colosseum & Arena Floor Guided tour . Even at a bargain price you still get to see all the sites with a guide to answer questions.

Planning Tips for a trip to Rome

Before you start packing your bags, you’ll want to know how to make your trip easier and how to get the most out of your time in Rome. These top 5 planning tips can help you do just that.

Even standing outside the monstrous architectural wonder that is the Colosseum, it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed at the technology and hard work necessary to build it. When visiting it, you will want to make sure you get the most out of the opportunity.

Tip #1: Wear Comfortable Shoes

It might be safe to say that you will want to wear comfortable shoes when touring many areas of Rome. However, there is no place in the city that requires comfortable walking shoes (can you link to a buying guide for shoes to this guide?) than the Colosseum.

This is a very large structure and many tours will take you up into the stands, onto the arena floor, or even into the underground tunnels and rooms where gladiators prepared for battle. With so much to see, you may spend hours here, and most of it spent walking.

Your best bet is to bring a comfortable pair of shoes from home, so you know they won’t hurt your feet with constant walking.

Tip #2: Take a Tour of the Colosseum

When standing in line to purchase a general admission ticket to the Colosseum, you may be waiting for quite a while. Plus, the general admission price doesn’t include priority access or access to other areas of the Colosseum.

When you purchase a ticket for a guided tour of the Colosseum, you will usually also receive skip-the-line access. This means that you will enter the Colosseum with your guide without having to stand in line. Many of these tours also offer access to areas of the structure that most people aren’t able to see.

One of the best reasons to invest in a tour of the Colosseum is that your guide will also be able to explain the different areas of the structure that you visit. Learning not just the history but also the time-true stories and legends can make your trip to the Colosseum a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tip #3: Arrive Early, Stay Late

The Colosseum opens for visitors at 8:30 AM. Many guided tours will start between 8 and 9:30 AM. Those that start before the day’s official opening can provide a wonderful experience, seeing the Colosseum and its marvels without crowds.

If you are also going to be visiting the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, be sure to stay in the area until after sunset. Seeing the Colosseum lit up at night is a view not to be missed.

Tip #4: The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Even many of the general admissions tickets to the Colosseum will provide access, or a discounted rate, for entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill as well. With a guided tour, you can also see all three locations. This is a great way to spend a day and you will be able to experience some of the most popular attractions in Rome all in one day.

Tip #5: Choose Nearby Accommodations

If the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill are on your list of must-visit attractions in Rome, you may want to choose accommodations that are close by. Not only does this make it easier for you to visit these places, but it is also a wonderful area of Rome to stay. Transportation is conveniently located nearby and many tours of other areas of the city have pickup locations in this area as well.

Other Attractions in Rome

Rome is full of attractions you can visit around your tour of the Colosseum. The National Roman Museum is family-friendly and houses many interesting artifacts. The Basilica of San Clemente is not just a church, but also an archaeological site.

The newer building at the entry level dates back to the 12 th -century while you can head downstairs to the original basilica built in the 4 th -century AD.

If you’d like to see some of the more ancient attractions around Rome, you have several options. The Roman Forum is the location where Romulus made the founding of the city of Rome official. It was once the epicenter of Roman life.

Ostia Antica is just 25-minutes away by train. This location was once a thriving center of commerce. Today, you can explore over 100 acres of ancient shops, baths, temples, and even apartment buildings and houses.

If you have some extra time, a visit to the Tuscany region should not be missed. With beautiful hilltop towns and wineries you should take a day trip to Tuscany . If might be the highlight of your trip!

If you would like to see more of the Italian coast, a day trip to the Amalfi Coast or Capri should not be missed!

Tour Guides

The Colosseum Underground and Arena Tour w/ Roman Forum is our Editor's Choice with its combination of sites seen, tours guides and value.

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

• United Kingdom
• Curated Stays
• Wine Travel
• About Isabelle
• Work with Us

9 Best Colosseum Underground Tours – Dive into Gladiatorial Rome

• Isabelle Hoyne
• November 7, 2023

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

Unearth the secrets of ancient Rome with our expert guide to the best Colosseum underground tours. Dive deep into history, discover hidden wonders, and enhance your Roman odyssey!

Are you planning a visit to Rome and considering a tour of the legendary Colosseum?

Before you step into this ancient amphitheatre, allow me to shed some light on why Colosseum underground tours might just be the key to unlocking the full majesty of this iconic landmark.

I had the privilege of exploring the Colosseum’s hidden depths myself, opting for the VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground & Arena Floor by Walks of Italy. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer. It felt like gaining access to the secret backstage of one of history’s greatest spectacles.

Imagine standing in the very place where gladiators once nervously awaited their fate, where fierce animals were caged, and where the wounded sought solace.

Picture yourself among the intricate mechanisms that once moved massive stage props with the precision of an early-day elevator system, all operated by slaves.

This underground world brings the Colosseum to life in a way that general admission simply can’t.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the best underground Colosseum tours, allowing you to find and book the perfect one for your own trip to Rome.

Read on to find the best Colosseum underground tours to suit your needs. 

My top 3 picks: Best Colosseum Underground Tours

First choice.

VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Duration: 3.5 hours

Selling points: Exclusive Colosseum underground access. Rated 4.8/5 stars by 5,000+ guests.

second choice

Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour

Duration: 3 hours

Selling points: Intimate Colosseum exploration. Perfect 5/5 from 3,400+ reviews.

Third choice

Colosseum by Evening Guided Tour with Arena Floor

Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes

Selling points: Unique nighttime Colosseum experience. Rated 4.8/5 by 2100+ guests.

Best Underground Colosseum Tours

1 | vip colosseum underground tour with roman forum & palatine hill.

★ RATING : 4.8/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH : 3.5 hours | ✓ Book now

The VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill has garnered an impressive rating of 4.8/5 stars from 5203 reviews, making it a highly acclaimed experience in Rome.

This VIP tour offers exclusive access to the Colosseum’s underground, providing a unique opportunity to explore its hidden depths. Additionally, the tour includes visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, creating a comprehensive exploration of Rome’s iconic landmarks.

Led by a knowledgeable local guide, participants embark on a journey beneath the Colosseum’s surface, exploring the hidden tunnels and stepping onto the renowned arena floor. The tour continues with a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, offering insights into the social and political heart of ancient Rome.

Tour Highlights:

• Explore the Colosseum’s underground.
• Step onto the arena floor.
• Visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
• Discover lifelike digital projections of ancient Rome.
• Enjoy a small group experience with a maximum of 24 guests.

Perfect for:

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking an immersive exploration of Rome’s ancient past. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, and privileged access means no waiting in long lines.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Entrance time may vary between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm, depending on availability.

Reviews: “Our guide, Dario, was amazing. He shared his knowledge about Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Forum with us. He also gave us helpful tips as tourists in Rome. He also has a great sense of humour. I would definitely recommend the VIP Colosseum Tour that includes the underground of the Colosseum. ” – Rita, Aug 17, 2023 Read more reviews here.

Useful information:

• Start Time : Times vary (please check for availability).
• Duration : 3.5 hours.
• Size of Tour : Maximum 24 people.
• Accessibility : Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.
• Included : Colosseum entrance ticket, guided experience, and headset for groups over 6 people.

2 | Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour

★ RATING : 5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With an impressive 3,438 reviews, rating it a perfect 5/5 stars, this award-winning tour is highly regarded by travellers.

This tour offers an intimate exploration of the Colosseum, limited to just six people, ensuring a semi-private and personalised experience with a knowledgeable guide. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, based on my assessment, it’s clear why it’s a favourite among visitors.

On this tour, you delve into the Colosseum’s underground chambers, an area off-limits to most visitors, where you can walk through the maze of subterranean chambers and hear stories about the gruesome gladiator battles. As you ascend to the arena level, you’ll have a unique opportunity to walk on original floors that are nearly 2,000 years old, providing an authentic glimpse of history.

• Guided tour of the Colosseum and the highlights of ancient Rome.
• Skip the lines with priority entry to the Colosseum.
• Stroll up Palatine Hill and see where Rome’s wealthiest inhabitants once lived.

This tour is perfect for those who seek a more intimate and immersive experience of the Colosseum and ancient Rome. History enthusiasts, in particular, will appreciate the opportunity to explore the underground chambers and learn about the gladiators’ lives and battles.

• Limited access to the Colosseum’s restricted areas may be shared with other participants.
• Some changes in Colosseum ticketing regulations may affect the guide’s presence during a portion of the tour.

Reviews: “ Fun and informative. My wife and I are extremely appreciated the tour and the tour guide’s experience, knowledge, and humor. She had a lot of information and made it enjoyable for the long day of walking. It was one of our favorite tours of our two-week vacation. We really liked when she shared information on local Roman culture. This was very much worth the time and price. I would strongly suggest this tour to anyone. ” – Shane_W, Jul 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Varies (please check for availability).
• Duration : 3 hours.
• Size of Tour : Maximum 6 people.
• Included : Skip-the-line access, expert guide.

3 | VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground & Arena Floor

★ RATING : 4.8/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH : 2 hrs 45 mins | ✓ Book now

The VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground & Arena Floor makes the top 3 list after my own experience of taking it. With a remarkable rating of 4.8/5 stars from 2109 reviews, this tour offers a captivating night-time experience at one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, along with visits to other monuments.

This immersive tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the Colosseum at night, complete with VIP access to areas typically off-limits to the public. Additionally, the tour includes visits to other historic monuments in Rome, making it a comprehensive and unforgettable experience.

As evening falls over Rome, you’ll embark on a Colosseum night tour, allowing you to experience this iconic monument in a more intimate and serene atmosphere. The night-time setting enhances the tour’s exclusivity. Moreover, you’ll explore other significant landmarks, adding depth to your Roman adventure.

Having personally taken this tour, I can attest to its excellence. The night-time ambiance adds a layer of enchantment to the Colosseum experience. Stepping onto the arena floor and gazing at the illuminated amphitheater is nothing short of mesmerising. The inclusion of other monuments in the tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Rome’s history and architecture.

• Visit the Colosseum underground.
• Explore the Colosseum’s exterior and interior illuminated in lights.
• Enjoy a guided tour with a maximum of 24 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Discover other monuments and historic sites in Rome.

Perfect for: 

This night tour is perfect for those seeking a different perspective of the Colosseum, away from the daytime crowds and heat. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and ambiance of this ancient amphitheater while also discovering other iconic sites in Rome.

• Entrance time may vary between 7:15 pm and 10:30 pm, depending on availability.

Reviews: “Last year I was in Rome and did a Coliseum tour in the day . . . I didn’t want to go again after that experience but my family wanted to. I am so glad I did! The night tour was a completely different experience and 100% worth it! Going at night without the intense crowds and not in the heat of the day made it so much easier to immerse yourself into the experience and enjoy the information received. You could actually start to think of what it was like so long ago. Book this tour well in advance, you won’t be sorry! ” – Lisa, Sep 24, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Point : Teatro di Marcello, Rome.
• Duration : 2 hours and 45 minutes.
• Included : Colosseum entrance ticket plus guided experience.

RELATED READING | Best Colosseum by Night Tours: 9 Top Picks 

4 | Rome: Colosseum Underground Tour

★ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | ✓ Book now

With a remarkable rating of 4.8/5 stars from over 800 reviews, the Rome: Colosseum Underground Tour offers a fascinating journey through Ancient Rome’s iconic landmarks.

Meet your guide and enjoy skip-the-line access to the Colosseum . Explore the Underground, discovering the staging area for animals and gladiators. Visit recently opened dungeons and the mechanisms beneath the arena floor.

One of the standout things about this tour is the fact that it offers three options:

• Small Group Comprehensive Tour: Join a small group limited to adults only, with a maximum of 6 participants. This 3.5-hour tour includes a visit to the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, offering an unparalleled depth of insight.
• Private Tour: Choose a private tour for your small group, ensuring the guide’s exclusive attention. Customise the tour to your preferences for a truly personalised experience.
• Self-Guided Tour: Prefer to explore at your own pace? Opt for the “Go on Your Own Tickets” option, granting access to special areas not available to the general public. A Colosseum custodian will assist you.
• Discover the Colosseum’s premier levels, including the Underground and Arena.
• Experience life as a gladiator through the Gladiator’s Gate.
• Learn about the Colosseum Underground’s behind-the-scenes operations.
• Skip the long lines at Ancient Rome’s main monuments.
• Enjoy exclusive-access tours of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

Those looking for flexibility of choice in your exploration of the Colosseum Underground, with a well reviewed tour company.

Reviews: “What an amazing tour! We’ve been to the Colosseum twice but never saw it like this. Heidi was amazing and so knowledgeable about everything. The underground viewable areas they have opened are incredible and we got lucky and got to see some special museum exhibits and video that really brought the era to life. Highly recommended!” – Chris, United States, September 17, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Multiple starting times available.
• Size of Tour : 6 max in small group tour. Up to 36 participants on the private tour (from your own party)
• Accessibility : Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
• Included : Skip-the-line Colosseum Underground tickets. Headsets. Tips.

5 | Rome: Colosseum Underground, Arena & Forum Tour

★ RATING : 4.7/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH : 75 minutes – 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a commendable rating of 4.7/5 stars from approximately 3,000 reviews, the Rome: Colosseum Underground, Arena & Forum Tour offers an enriching exploration of Rome’s iconic landmarks.

This tour provides exclusive access to areas of the Colosseum not typically available to regular ticket holders, including the Underground, Arena, and upper tiers. It also offers a fascinating journey through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Guided by a professional guide, you’ll venture into the Colosseum’s underground, where gladiators and wild animals prepared for battle. Explore the Porta Libitinaria and ascend to the first level of the arena. Gain insights into the engineering marvel of the Colosseum and its enduring history. Discover the political and social significance of the games and events held here.

Afterward, you can independently explore the Roman Forum to gain a deeper understanding of daily life in ancient Rome. Enjoy breathtaking views from Palatine Hill and extend your visit as desired.

• Skip the long lines at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
• Learn about Ancient Rome from a professional guide.
• Exclusive access to the Underground Colosseum and Arena.

This tour is an excellent choice for history enthusiasts and curious travelers. It offers a unique perspective on the Colosseum and includes lesser-known areas. The skip-the-line access ensures a hassle-free experience.

• The order of site visits may vary.

Reviews: “ Elena was an excellent guide who really helped us understand the history of the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Tour was delayed due to issues with overcrowding and everything was communicated very well in advance so there were no issues with our travel plans. I would highly recommend this tour as the first thing you do on your trip to understand the beginnings of Rome as a city .” – GetYourGuide traveler, United States, September 19, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Check availability for specific starting times.
• Duration: 75 minutes – 3 hours.
• Size of Tour : Varies.
• Included : Skip-the-ticket-line entrance ticket, guided tour of the Colosseum, visit to the Forum and Palatine Hill, headsets for groups over 6 people.

6 | Rome: Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome

★ RATING : 4.6/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a commendable rating of 4.6/5 stars from over 2,000 reviews, the Rome: Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor, and Ancient Rome tour offers an intriguing journey through history.

Explore the hidden depths of the Colosseum and gain exclusive access to the arena floor on this guided walking tour . Afterwards, continue your adventure with a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

As you stand on the arena floor, walk in the footsteps of gladiators and imagine the roaring crowd. Descend beneath the Colosseum to explore the underground tunnels that connected it with the Ludus Magnus, where gladiators trained. Observe the chambers that housed wild animals and see the elevators used to release them onto the arena floor.

After the Colosseum, take a guided tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, delving into the heart of ancient Rome.

• Explore the underground tunnels of the Colosseum.
• Gain special access to the arena floor.
• Enjoy guided tours of the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum.
• Benefit from fast-track entry and skip the lines.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to uncover the secrets of the Colosseum’s underground and experience the grandeur of ancient Rome. Fast-track entry ensures a seamless visit.

• The start time may change, so plan accordingly.
• Security checks at entry points may have considerable wait times during peak seasons.

Reviews: “Wonderful! We loved the tour guide and how knowledgeable she was and her ability to answer all of our questions. It was the right size group and although hot we stopped for water and shady spots. The Colosseum didn’t disappoint either. I would highly recommend this tour. Very well organized.” – Frances, Canada, September 27, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Size of Tour : Varies (up to 20 people).
• Accessibility : Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments. 
• Included : Official guide, Colosseum fast-track entry, access to Colosseum underground and arena floor, Palatine Hill guided tour, Roman Forum guided tour.

7 | Rome: Colosseum Underground & Roman Forum Guided Tour

★ RATING : 4.6/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH : 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a solid rating of 4.6/5 stars from close to 2,000 reviews, the Rome: Colosseum Underground & Roman Forum Guided Tour takes you on a captivating journey through Ancient Rome.

Meet your guide at the activity provider’s office and head to the iconic Colosseum. Gain exclusive access to the restricted underground area , exploring the dungeons and the Gladiator’s Arena while learning about the building’s various uses.

The tour then continues around the rest of the Colosseum before heading to Palatine Hill. Here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city centre and have the perfect photo opportunities. Finally, descend the hill to reach the Roman Forum.

Arrive at the Roman Forum, once the centre of life in Ancient Rome, and discover the array of important buildings located here. Learn about the historical significance of this site, where public speeches, elections, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches took place.

• Skip-the-line access to each monument.
• An intimate, small group tour with an expert guide.
• Exploration of the Colosseum’s restricted underground.
• Stunning views from Palatine Hill.
• Discovery of the Roman Forum and its historical importance.

This tour provides an in-depth exploration of the Colosseum’s underground, as well as a unique perspective on Ancient Rome. It will give a good overview of Colosseum, Roman Forum and Ancient Rome to those who want to be part of a relatively small group.

• Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not permitted in the monuments.
• Being late may result in not being able to join the group or reschedule.

Reviews: “Rita was amazing! She described everything with enthusiasm and details. The tour underground brought it all together.” – Patty, United States, September 26, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Size of Tour : Up to 15 participants.
• Accessibility : Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
• Included : Admission to each monument, access to the Colosseum’s restricted underground, live guide, headsets, all taxes and fees.

8 | Small-Group Ancient Rome and Colosseum Underground Tour

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 to 3 hours | ✓ Book now

Experience the awe of Ancient Rome with the Small-Group Ancient Rome and Colosseum Underground Tour, boasting close to 1,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating. This tour offers exclusive access to the Colosseum’s underground chambers and much more.

Your expert guide will unravel the mysteries of Ancient Rome, and your adventure continues with visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Meet your guide at the activity provider’s office and head to the iconic Colosseum. Gain exclusive access to the restricted underground area, exploring the dungeons and the Gladiator’s Arena while learning about the building’s various uses.

The Small-Group Ancient Rome and Colosseum Underground Tours are perfect for history enthusiasts, explorers, photographers, and small group lovers.

Reviews: “Underground is the only way to go! Amazing experience. Tour guides were informative and recreated a picture that transported you into the past. Given that it was so hot outside, it was nice to spend half the time underground where it’s nice and cool. Our group fully enjoyed this tour! I would recommend!” – Danielle_C, September 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time : Multiple starting times are available.
• Duration : 1.5 to 3 hours.
• Size of Tour : Up to 24 participants.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
• Included: Admission to each monument, access to the Colosseum’s restricted underground, live guide, headsets, all taxes and fees.

9 | VIP Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Small Group Tour

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a rating of 4.5/5 stars based on 249 reviews at the time of writing, the VIP Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Small Group Tour offers an exclusive experience of Rome’s ancient wonders.

Embark on a captivating journey through Rome’s history with VIP access to the Colosseum’s Underground and an exploration of the Roman Forum. This guided tour promises a deeper understanding of these iconic landmarks.

Meet your guide at Via del Colosseo and enjoy VIP access to the Colosseum. Delve into the Colosseum’s Arena, Underground, and dungeons, gaining insight into its history, including gladiator battles and shocking stories. Explore the Roman Forum with skip-the-line access, guided by an expert.

• VIP tour with exclusive access to the Colosseum Underground and Arena.
• Fascinating insights into ancient Rome’s events and stories.
• Expert guide sharing historical context and secrets.
• Skip-the-line access to the Roman Forum.
• Audio headsets for a clear tour experience.

History enthusiasts and adventurers seeking an in-depth exploration of ancient Rome’s most iconic sites. This VIP tour provides exclusive access and expert insights, making it ideal for those eager to immerse themselves in the rich history and captivating stories of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Reviews: “Fab Tour! Gigi was the best guide! Funny and very knowledgeable. The tour itself was amazing… Lots to see and so interesting to tour the underground. One of our favorite tours in Italy!” – Stacy_D, September 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Accessibility: This tour is not wheelchair accessible, and it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to uneven surfaces and stairs.
• Included : Professional guide. All taxes, fees, and handling charges. Headsets to hear your guide clearly.

What to keep in mind when choosing a guided tour of the Colosseum’s Underground

In my opinion, when planning your visit to the Colosseum’s Underground, it’s important to consider several factors to make the most of your experience:

1. Booking in Advance:

To secure your spot and avoid disappointment, I recommend booking your chosen Colosseum Underground tour well in advance. Especially during peak tourist seasons, these tours tend to sell out quickly. By planning ahead, you can ensure that your desired date and time are available.

2. Tour Availability and Timing:

Check the current tour schedules and available days to ensure they align with your visit to Rome. I suggest monitoring your emails for correspondence from the tour company in the lead up to your tour, as peak seasons may lead to unexpected adjustments in tour timing. Proactive communication can help avoid last-minute changes from spoiling your visit.

3. Group Combining:

Inside the Colosseum, tour guides are often hired directly by the site when it comes to the underground portion, and the tour companies may not have full control over this aspect.

Be prepared for the possibility of smaller groups from different tours being combined if their entry times overlap and the fact that you might have a different guide for the underground portion of your tour. 

4. Manage Expectations:

When reading tour reviews, you may encounter both positive and negative feedback. It’s important to manage your expectations by thoroughly reviewing the tour details and to take some of the negative feedback with a pinch of salt – sometimes, the customer is wrong.

Understanding what’s included in the tour and being aware that negative reviews may result from misunderstandings or communication challenges will help guide your choice of tour. 

5. Additional Monument Visits:

Some Colosseum Underground tours may include visits to other historic monuments in Rome. While planning your itinerary, consider whether you’d like to explore these additional sites. This can add depth to your Roman adventure and provide a well-rounded historical experience.

Best Colosseum Underground Tours: What you need to know

If you’re considering exploring the Colosseum’s underground, you probably have a few questions in mind. Here, I’ll address some common queries to help you plan your visit effectively:

What is the best Colosseum underground tour?

Two of the best Colosseum Underground tours include the VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill and the Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour. Both provide immersive experiences with knowledgeable guides that are part of extremely reputable tour companies.

Is it worth doing the underground Colosseum tour?

It’s most definitely worth doing the underground Colosseum tour – in fact, the underground is my favourite part of the Colosseum! The underground tour takes you beneath the Colosseum’s surface, offering a glimpse into its hidden chambers and passages. You’ll walk in the footsteps of gladiators and explore areas typically off-limits to the public. It’s a fascinating journey into ancient Roman history and architecture, making it well worth the experience.

Is it worth seeing the Colosseum arena floor?

Yes, visiting the Colosseum’s arena floor is highly worth it. Stepping onto the same stage where gladiatorial contests took place and enjoying panoramic views of the amphitheatre is a memorable experience. It provides a unique perspective of the Colosseum’s grandeur and historical significance.

How long is the Colosseum Underground tour?

The duration of Colosseum Underground tours can vary. On average, these tours last around 1.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the specific tour you choose. Be sure to check the tour details for the exact duration when booking.

What is the difference between the Colosseum Underground and the Arena?

The Colosseum underground refers to the hidden chambers and passageways beneath the arena. It includes areas where gladiators prepared for battle and where animals were kept. The Colosseum arena is the stage itself, where the gladiatorial contests and other events took place. Tours often provide access to both areas, allowing you to explore the complete Colosseum experience.

Can you see the Colosseum underground without a tour?

No, you cannot see the Colosseum underground with a tour – access to both the underground and arena floor is typically only available through guided tours. These tours provide exclusive entry to restricted areas, ensuring a comprehensive and informative visit.

Conclusion: Best Underground Tour of the Colosseum

In the heart of Rome lies an ancient wonder waiting to be explored—the Colosseum. While there are many ways to experience this iconic monument, the best way to truly immerse yourself in its history and grandeur is through an underground tour. Among the options, the VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill stands out as the top choice, as explored in detail earlier in this blog post.

But our journey doesn’t end here.

If you’re still curious about the various Colosseum experiences and want to explore more, I invite you to read our other blog posts related to the Colosseum. You’ll find detailed insights and reviews, including my personal experience with the Colosseum by Night Underground Tour , as well as a round up of the best Colosseum at night tours . 

If you’re on the fence about which Colosseum tour to choose, take a moment to read my comprehensive guide on the Best Colosseum Tours . It provides a breakdown of different tour types to help you make the right decision.

And while you’re planning your trip to Rome, don’t miss our other useful content, including a guide on how much time is enough to explore Rome and a detailed itinerary for experiencing the best of Rome in just four days .

So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventurer, or simply someone seeking an unforgettable experience, the Colosseum’s underground tour awaits. Step back in time, uncover the secrets of ancient Rome, and create lasting memories in the heart of this eternal city.

Related reading for visiting Rome

• 4 day Rome itinerary |  The Perfect 4-Day Rome Itinerary – Food, Culture & A Little Luxury
• Rome at night |  19 Things To Do At Night In Rome, From Culture To Cocktails
• Visiting the Colosseum at night |  Is A Colosseum By Night Tour Worth It? An Honest & Comprehensive Review
• Best colosseum underground tours | 9 Best Colosseum Underground Tours – Dive into Gladiatorial Rome
• Colosseum by night tours | Best Colosseum by Night Tours: 9 Top Picks for 2024
• Best Colosseum tours | 10 Best Colosseum Tours [2024] + Insider Tips to Choose Correctly
• Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast itinerary |  A Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast Itinerary for Culture, Food & Scenery
• Florence, Rome, Amalfi Coast itinerary |  A Sophisticated Florence, Rome & Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• How many days do you need in Rome | How Long to Stay in Rome? Insider’s Advice on the Perfect Trip Length

Like this post? Please share or save for later…

Related Topics

Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

You May Also Like

20 best sri lanka safari hotels across 6 national parks.

• April 19, 2024
• Lisbon & Tagus

Is Sintra Worth Visiting? 12 Pros, 5 Challenges + Top Tips

• March 5, 2024
• French Riviera

Where to Stay on the French Riviera: 11 Best Locations (& Hotels)

• February 29, 2024

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Colosseum Tours

15 Best Colosseum Tours

The Colosseum is one of the greatest architectural works of Roman engineering. Commissioned in 72 AD by the emperor Vespasian, it is the embodiment of the Roman Empire at its height.

Also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, the Colosseum is an architectural masterpiece that went on to become a prototype for modern stadia.

It remains the largest amphitheater in the world, stretching over five acres and boasting a capacity of 87,000.

The Colosseum is an example of what the Romans managed to achieve with this construction so long ago, and you can’t help but think how remarkable it was.

It is not surprising to know that the Colosseum is listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

The elliptical sports arena that celebrated the legendary gladiator games is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Italian capital.

It is nestled in the middle of the Eternal City and remains the second-hottest ticket for visitors to Roma, after the Vatican.

Here are 15 Colosseum tours that should top your list whenever you find yourself in Rome.

1. Skip the Line: Colosseum and Ancient Rome Walking Tour

Bypass the queues with this best-selling ticket to the Colosseum and explore the amphitheater as you hear stories of the fabled gladiator fights.

Then visit Palatine Hill, the neighborhood where the most important houses of Roman emperors and kings stood.

Regarded as the foundation of Rome, this is the most centrally located of the seven hills of Rome and is within touching distance of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus.

You will also visit the Roman Forum, which was the center of all public life, and learn how ancient Romans lived as you stroll along the Via Sacra, the main street of ancient Rome.

2. Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Package

The Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and the Colosseum were “where it all happened” in ancient Rome.

The Palatine was the most desirable place to live in the city, reserved for emperors and aristocrats. The Roman Forum was the marketplace and the region the government was run from.

And the Colosseum was a standing testament to the power and greatness of Rome, where gladiatorial games were held.

These three sites remain the most important of the ancient Roman ruins to date and this ticket bundles all three into a single tour.

The beauty of this tour is it gives you two-day access to these attractions because, for some of us, one day just isn’t enough to take in these awe-inspiring sites.

You will enjoy fast-track entry, with a downloadable map to boot.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Colosseum, Forum & Ancient Rome Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

No matter how much you would relish an exploration of Rome’s most famous remnants, sometimes time isn’t your most ample asset.

But this three-hour tour allows you to make the most of it, taking you to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, before ending at the Forum.

This is a small group tour of 25 individuals or less, with skip-the-line advantage so you can spend the allotted three hours the best way possible – sightseeing.

A professional guide will be on hand to narrate the fascinating history of the Romans, including tales and myths of the emperors, the gladiators, and beasts that graced the arena.

4. Skip-the-Line Colosseum Guided Tour

The Flavian Amphitheater was the most important structure in ancient Rome and tales of its magnificence were told far and wide.

Today, it remains one of the most iconic structures in the world. This one-hour tour gives you the opportunity to take it all in, with the advantage of skipping the lines at the entrance.

A guide will show you around, recounting stories of the legendary war games, the countless animals that met their death here, and the sea battles that were reenacted in the Colosseum that you don’t hear much about.

The tour covers the entire monument, concluding at the official book shop where you’ll find the most comprehensive book collection about the Colosseum.

5. Skip-the-Line Colosseum Tickets with Arena Floor Access

This ticket offers perks that standard tickets to the Colosseum do not cover.

After skipping the long queues to the Amphitheater, retrace gladiator steps by taking the Gladiator’s Entrance, which opens to the arena’s floor where they did battle.

The ticket also grants access to the second tier, where roaring crowds bayed for blood, as well as the emperor’s box, which offered the best views for 42 of the emperors who witnessed the carnage at the Amphitheater.

If by the end of the three-hour tour you feel the need to immerse yourself in ancient Roman history further, the ticket comes with the option of exploring the Colosseum further with skip-the-line access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

6. Vatican & Rome City Pass with Free Transportation

With almost 3,000 years of history, Rome is one of the most historical cities in the world – so much so, that a large chunk of the city is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This tour is one of the best ways to uncover this past, mainly because it offers three full days to explore the city at your own pace.

With this city pass, you will enjoy fast-track entry into Rome’s most famous attractions, including free admission to the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums.

You will also enjoy discounted entry into more than 30 attractions in the city, with free transport aboard a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus.

7. 3.5 hour Colosseum and Ancient Rome Walking Tour

Join a group of 18 people and head out on a 3.5-hour exploration of Rome by foot in the company of an expert guide.

Most of the guides are grads of history/architecture, so they know their stuff quite well, which is good news for the historically curious.

The tour has the option of morning or late afternoon departure and saves valuable time with skip-the-line access to ancient Rome’s most famous sites.

Included in the package are the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and a hike up Capitoline Hill the neighborhood where the who’s who in Rome called home.

You will also visit the Piazza Venezia (Rome’s central hub), the Pantheon (the Roman temple which is the most preserved and influential building of ancient Rome), and the Piazza Navona, one of the most charming and famous squares in the Eternal City.

8. Ancient Rome Tour: Colosseum Underground, Arena & Forum

This tour grants you access to areas of the Colosseum not accessible via regular ticket, including the underground chamber where the wild animals were housed before being released into the arena.

Enter the arena through the Porta Libitinaria (the Gate of Death) and ascend the first level for a glimpse of what it was like watching the deadly games from this vantage point.

You will learn about the architectural feat of the Flavian Amphitheater and the social and political impact of the games.

Enjoy access to the Forum to get a feel for what everyday life was like in ancient Rome before heading to Palatine Hill for the best views of the Circus Maximus and Colosseum.

9. Rome in One Day: Low-Cost Vatican & Colosseum Tours

A trip to the Vatican is a lifetime treat for every Catholic.

However, it’s also a feast for art lovers of all religious affiliations. This tour affords you a daylong exploration of the two most visited attractions in Italy.

Start the morning with a visit to the Vatican’s famous sites, including the massive St. Peter’s Basilica – the resting place for St. Peter – before proceeding to the breathtaking Sistine Chapel with its Michelangelo frescoes.

Visit the Colosseum in the afternoon, followed by a view of the famous archaeological sites in its vicinity, including the Forum and Palatine Hill.

10. 3.5 Hour Skip-the-Line Access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Navona Tour

We know that all tours to Rome’s ancient sites are historical, but all history mega-buffs will especially love this tour.

It takes you on a 3.5-hour guided tour of the seven beauties of Ancient and Baroque Rome.

You will start at the Colosseum where gladiatorial combats and public games were held.

The tour then proceeds to the Roman Forum, the site for all political, business and religious gatherings in ancient Rome.

From there, your guide takes you to the Imperial Forum, followed by a visit to the central hub of Piazza Venezia and the Trevi Fountain, the largest Baroque fountain in the city.

The Pantheon is also on the cards, as is a visit to the Piazza Navona, a square constructed on the remains of the stadium of Domitian.

11. Colosseum and Roman Forum Small-Group Guided Tour

Capped at 13 people max, this tour is ideal for anyone who wants a more personalized experience than a large group tour can provide.

The three-hour tour starts with skip-the-line entry at the world’s biggest and most famous amphitheater, the Colosseum, before proceeding to the Roman Forum, the political, commercial, legal and religious center of ancient Rome.

But the tour is not restricted to these two showpieces.

Your guide will also take you to other sites that were important in the everyday life of an ancient Roman, including the Temple of Saturn and Vesta, the Tabularium and more.

Then visit Palatine Hill, Rome’s sacred birthplace, where you can catch magnificent views of attractions like the Circus Maximus, a massive entertainment venue used for chariot racing.

12. Colosseum and Palatine Hill Skip-the-Line Tour

This is a sightseeing tour that doubles as a great learning experience.

Soak in the beauty of the Colosseum from the outside before stepping inside to learn about the history and architecture of the structure, as well as the technological advancements of the ancient Roman engineers.

An expert guide will then lead you to the most important of the Seven Hills of Rome – Palatine Hill – which was home to famous emperors like Augustus, Tiberius, and Domitian.

You will see the ruins of the Temple of Caesar from here, the Arch of Titus, the Basilica of Maxentius, the House of the Vestal Virgins and much more.

13. Colosseum Express Skip-the-Line Tour

If time is not your best friend and you need a reasonably-priced ticket to the Colosseum, this hour-long tour is perfect.

Meet your guide a short distance from the Colosseum and walk right past the line through an express entrance.

You’ll march through the amphitheater at a reasonably fast clip, as your guide narrates the history of the structure and shows you around important features.

It’s fun, it’s efficient, and it’s affordable.

14. Colosseum and Ancient Rome 3-Hour Private Tour

If you want a truly personalized experience, hire an expert guide for yourself and spend three hours reveling in the majesty of the Colosseum.

The good thing about having a private guide is that it’s likely to be the most in-depth tour of the Colosseum you take, with a flexibility not possible with a group tour.

Spend time at the points that stir the most interest in you and flit through those that don’t strike your fancy.

The tour also covers other famous ruins in the Roman Forum, including temples, basilicas and former palaces; not to mention a hike up Palatine Hill.

15. Colosseum Skip-the-Line Self-Guided Virtual Reality Tour

A virtual reality tour teleports you to ancient Rome in style by providing you with a 3-D reconstruction of the Colosseum, integrated with audio commentary.

The virtual tour is a deeply immersive experience that leads you into the depths of the arena through the labyrinth of underground corridors where slaves readied the shows.

Enjoy virtual reenactments of the deadly games, complete with the roaring of lions and thunderous applause from the watching masses.

After the virtual tour, skip the line and gain admission into the Colosseum, before wrapping up with a cultural visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

15 Best Colosseum Tours:

• Skip the Line: Colosseum and Ancient Rome Walking Tour
• Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Package
• Colosseum, Forum & Ancient Rome Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
• Skip-the-Line Colosseum Guided Tour
• Skip-the-Line Colosseum Tickets with Arena Floor Access
• Vatican & Rome City Pass with Free Transportation
• 3.5 hour Colosseum and Ancient Rome Walking Tour
• Ancient Rome Tour: Colosseum Underground, Arena & Forum
• Rome in One Day: Low-Cost Vatican & Colosseum Tours
• 3.5 Hour Skip-the-Line Access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Navona Tour
• Colosseum and Roman Forum Small-Group Guided Tour
• Colosseum and Palatine Hill Skip-the-Line Tour
• Colosseum Express Skip-the-Line Tour
• Colosseum and Ancient Rome 3-Hour Private Tour
• Colosseum Skip-the-Line Self-Guided Virtual Reality Tour

8 Best Colosseum Tours in Rome (2024)

Famously the setting for gladiatorial contests, the UNESCO-listed Colosseum (il Colosseo) should be at the top of your Rome bucket list . Taking a tour is one of the best ways to enjoy the Colosseum and a good guide can bring Ancient Rome’s best-known site vividly to life

But which are the best Colosseum tours in Rome?

This is where I can help. I’ve visited the Colosseum more than once and know what to look for in a tour.

From night-time Colosseum tours to family-friendly experiences, here is my pick of the best tours of the Colosseum.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .  Read the full disclosure here .

THE BEST OF THE BEST

Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome

Colosseum by Night

Private Colosseum and Roman Forum

Is It Worth Getting a Tour of the Colosseum?

A self-guided visit allows you to move at your own pace and focus on the aspects that interest you the most. However, having done it both ways, a guided tour of the Colosseum added so much value to the experience:

Access Restricted Areas –  Some tours offer access to areas of the Colosseum that are not open to the general public, such as the underground chambers and the upper levels. This is a massive benefit for me.

Fast track entry –  Most tours offer skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass long queues and maximise your time at the site.

Expert Guidance –  A good guide can provide insights, stories and information that you might not get from a self-guided visit.

Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

There is a bewildering array of Colosseum tours available and it can be tricky to determine which is the right one for you. To help you make the right choice, I’ve curated a list of my favourite experiences.

1. Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour | 3 hours

Ancient Rome was much more than the Colosseum and this 3-hour tour includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill . This affordable tour is an excellent introduction to these iconic sites and has been highly rated by more than 13k travellers.

Book this if you want

ThiNK TWICE if you WANT

• access to the Colosseum arena floor
• access to the underground areas
• access to the second tier

What other travellers have said :

I highly recommend it especially to those who go for the first time! The guided tour is perfect for those traveling alone, as a couple or as a family/group! Valentina – Italy

>>> CLICK HERE FOR MORE REVIEWS

2. Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome Tour | 3 hours

If you’ve ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of gladiators, this is the tour for you. This value-for-money tour has also been highly rated by other travellers and includes access to the arena floor.

A tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill is also included. I like that the English tour group size is capped at 12 people.

The tour was excellent from start to finish. Ceriane – United Kingdom

3. Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Tour | 3 hours

This is an access-all-areas Colosseum tour . It is one of the few tours that visits the arena’s underground chambers as well as the second tier.

The tour finishes with a tour of the Roman Forum.

• a tour of the Palatine Hill

Very informative and we took plenty of time to see everything. It truly felt like the VIP special tour that we paid for. I would actually do it again. Justin

4. Colosseum by Night with Underground & Arena Floor Tour | 2 hours

If the Colosseum by day is magnificent, the Colosseum by night is magical. And if its illuminated splendour is not enough to convince you to visit after the sun sets, let me tell you that it is much quieter at night.

A tour is the only way to visit il Colosseo at night and this one allows you access to most of the monument’s restricted areas.

Book this if you want TO

ThiNK TWICE if you WANT TO

• access the second tier
• tour the Roman Forum
• tour the Palatine Hill

Experiencing the Colosseum at night I think is the best way to do it. You don’t have the crowds and there is so much more freedom to hang back and take pictures than you would have during the day. The tour guides and were very knowledgable! Eric – United States

5. Colosseum Floor Twilight Tour & Imperial Forum Visit | 2 hours

A major disadvantage of visiting the Colosseum at night is that you miss out on a guided tour of the Roman Forum. For me, this twilight Colosseum tour is the best of both worlds.

You benefit from the relative tranquillity of the last entry slot of the day and get an introduction to the Roman Forum

• to visit the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

… amazing photo opportunities at sunset. I highly recommend this tour, well worth the money! GetYourGuide traveller – United Kingdom

6. Private Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour | 3 hours

Group tours aren’t for everyone. A private tour can be customized to your interests and ensures you’ll receive personalized attention from your guide.

This highly-rated private tour starts at the Colosseum and finishes at the Arch of Constantine. It also passes by the Palatine Hill, Temple of Vesta, Forum of Caesar and Imperial Forum.

Book this if you want A

• access to the underground area and upper tiers

Our tour guide Katie is a historian who is very knowledgeable and friendly. She explained the details with pictures and old photos from her iPad made the Colosseum and Roman Forum live again. We had a most wonderful time and experience. Best value for money. Michael_H

7. Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour for Kids & Families | 2 hrs 30 minutes

Are you travelling to Rome with children? If so, take a look at this private tour , designed with kids and families in mind.

The younger members of your group will be engaged by playing games and answering trivia questions.

ThiNK TWICE if you WANT A

• hotel pick-up

Thank you Simona! Without a doubt one the BEST tours we’ve EVER had! Anywhere! We had Simona, and she was thorough, interesting and engaging – for both adults and kids! Jasmin_L

8. Colosseum Express Tour | 1 hour

My final Colosseum tour is for you if you are tight on time and just want to see inside the Colosseum. Or it may be that you are not that interested in history and don’t want an in-depth tour.

If that’s the case, this bare-bones tour might be the one for you. However, it’s worth noting you have to stay with your group and cannot extend your time at the Colosseum.

Book this if you

• access to restricted areas
• a more in-depth tour

The tour was great, our guide led us through security and told us the key information we needed to know about the Colosseum. GetYourGuide traveler – Australia

And That’s a Wrap!

Of course, you can visit the Colosseum without a tour. Your entry ticket includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. You can buy your skip-the-line ticket here .

However, I’ve often found that a tour gives you more bang for your buck. Visiting the Colosseum isn’t cheap and the tour may not cost that much more than your entrance ticket.

Whichever of these Colosseum tours you choose, have an unforgettable time in one of the world’s must-see sights.

Bridget Coleman is an award-winning travel blogger who is an incurable Italy addict and has travelled its length & breadth on multiple occasions. Find out more here . To get in touch, email her at [email protected]

5 Best Colosseum Tours in Rome (2023)

This post may contain compensated links. Find more info in our disclosure policy

Once the scene of historic sporting events, gladiator battles and wild animal fights, the magnificent Colosseum is a Rome icon and an absolute must-see when exploring the city.

A visit to the Colosseum is one of our favorite things to do in Rome, and we’ve visited it many times over recent years. One of the best ways to experience the Colosseum is by taking a tour. It’s incredible to stand in front of the arena and listen to the history behind the Colosseum – the tours really allow you to walk in the footsteps of ancient history and imagine what once was.

We’ve put together this list of the best Colosseum Tours in Rome – these are our favorite tours for maximising your visit to one of Rome’s greatest sights.

Table of Contents

The Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

We’ve visited the Colosseum in Rome many times, both with individual ticket entry and guided tours and highly recommend joining a tour to get the most out of your visit.

Due to its popularity, demand is generally very high year-round for tickets and tours of the Colosseum. This is especially true during the busy summer months so we highly recommend booking your tour in advance if you are visiting during popular months.

Best Colosseum Tours in Rome tip – the busiest months for tourism in Rome are between April and early November so make sure to book your tickets well in advance if you are visiting during this period.

Our top Colosseum tour picks are (we’ve included more details further on in the article):

Best Colosseum/Roman Forum/Palatine Hill Tour : a combined tour of the three adjacent sites is one of the most popular choices for first-time visitors to Rome. The tour includes priority/skip-the-line access to the Colosseum and the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (both of which are also Rome must-sees) – check prices now!

Best Access All Areas Tour : get access to the arena floor, the underground section and some of the upper floors of the Colosseum that are not accessible with a regular tour – check prices now!

Best Combo Tour: a whistle-stop tour of Rome in one day. This tour includes stops at the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Colosseum, together with a walking tour featuring the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. Includes skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican and Colosseum – check prices now!

Best Colosseum Evening Tour: this tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the Colosseum’s Underground and Arena Floor by night – check prices now!

Best Colosseum Tour for Families: join a small group tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum with a fun guide who specializes in tours for families with children – check prices now!

Ticket-only options: if you decide to visit on your own there are lots of ticket-only options available – you can even buy on the day you visit but this will likely require an extremely long wait in the ticket line. If you want to purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance, we love this combination of priority entrance to the Colosseum and a Rome sightseeing bus tour – check prices here – or this Rome Tourist card which includes skip-the-line access to the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. There is also a guided tour of St Peter’s Basicila included (make sure to upgrade to access the Basilica Dome when you are reserving) – check prices here !

Is a Tour of the Colosseum in Rome Worth it?

Our first visit to the Colosseum was with a standard entrance ticket and we thought it was incredible. Only when we returned and took a guided tour did we realise just how much we had missed out on!

A guided tour adds so much to the experience of visiting the Colosseum. We learn so much and enjoy our visit so much more with a knowledgeable guide showing us around.

• Depending on the tour you choose, it will either skip the general admission line or have fast-track access via the quieter Gladiator Gate which saves a lot of time when entering the Colosseum.
• The guides have a wealth of information and really do add so much to your visit. There is very little information available about the Colosseum when you are walking around. A tour guide will add a lot to your day and answer any questions you may have.
• Many of the tours are great value for money as they include guided tours and visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill in addition to the Colosseum.
• Many tours offer access to parts of the Colosseum that standard ticket holders cannot access. The two areas of the Colosseum that general admission doesn’t include are the lower levels (underground) section of the Colosseum and the arena floor and upper levels of the Colosseum. Some tours include these specific areas and are definitely worth it.

Best Colosseum Tours in Rome tip: All of the tours included in this list offer skip-the-line or fast track entrance to the Colosseum. This can save a lot of time as visitors skip the general admission line to the Colosseum. This line can be very long, even on quiet days at the Colosseum

It can be hard choosing a Colosseum tour due to the number and variety of tours available and, of course, you want to choose the right tour for your needs. We’ve put together this list of the best (and our favorite) tours of the Colosseum to help you narrow down your choices. From family friendly tours of the Colloseum to combination tours taking in other popular sights around the city there is a tour for everyone on our list.

1 | Best Colosseum/Roman Forum/Palatine Hill Tour

The Colosseum is adjacent to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, two incredible historic sites in Rome. If you haven’t visited these sites previously then we highly recommend a tour which includes all three – check prices now!

Tour Details: All tours include priority ticket access to the Colosseum (so you can skip the long general admission line) and tickets to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. An experienced guide will show you around the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Tours are available in English, Spanish, Italian, French and German and it is possible to add access to the Colosseum’s Arena Floor or select a small group tour limited to 12 participants.

What’s Included : The standard tour is a guided group tour of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum including Palatine Hill with skip the line entry. There is also a smaller group tour option (with a maximum of 12 people) and an option that includes access to the Arena Floor via the Gladiators Gate. The tour which includes the Arena Floor is one of our favorite tours as it gives a really unique view of the Colosseum.

Meeting Point / Tour Length: Most tours last 2.3-3 hours. The tour meeting point varies depending on the tour booked so make a note of the meeting point when you book the tour – check prices now!

Book your Colosseum/Roman Forum tour now

2 | Best Access all Areas Colosseum Tour

With access to the Arena Floor and the underground and upper tiers of the Colosseum, this is one of our favorite Colosseum tours in Rome .It gives participants a really unique look at areas of the Colosseum that most visitors don’t get to see.

Tour Details: The Colosseum Underground Tour takes visitors onto the arena floor and into the underground sections of the Colosseum where the gladiators prepared before the battles. Guests then continue up to the ground level and the first tier, where they will have some time to explore the Colosseum on their own. The tour also includes the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum where the guide will show you around Romes’s historic center for another hour.

What’s Included: Guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with skip-the-line entry. Access to the Arena Floor and Underground sections of the Colosseum. All guests are provided with headsets so they can hear the guide at all times.

Meeting Point / Tour Length: depends on the tour you have booked. Check the booking information here for the exact meeting points. Guests should arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes prior to the tour commencing. The tour lasts around 2.5-3 hours. – check prices now

Book your Colosseum all areas tour now

3 | Best Combo Rome and Colosseum Tour

If you want to spend a day visiting Rome’s incredible historic sites then this whistle-stop tour of Rome in one day is perfect – check prices now!

Best Coloseum Tours Tip: this is a full day tour and it covers a lot of ground across the city. We’d recommend that you are comfortable walking and being on your feet for the majority of the tour (around 7 hours)

Tour details: This tour includes stops at the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Colosseum, together with a walking tour featuring the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain.

What’s Included: Skip-the-Line Entry & Guided Tour of The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Roman Forum and St Peters Church. A guided walking tour past Navona Square, the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain.

Meeting Point / Tour Length: the tour starts close to the Vatican at Viale Vaticano between Hotel Alimandi and Caffé Vaticano. Look at the top of the big staircase for a rep with a sign. Make sure to arrive 10 minutes early. The tour lasts around 7 hours – check prices now!

Book your Rome Day Tour now

5 | Best Colosseum Family Tour

It can be difficult to keep kids entertained on historic tours (we know this from our travels with our 3 kids who are under 6!) so we often seek out family-friendly tours to make it more engaging for them. This tour is run by a guide who specialises in family tours and includes engaging games and quizzes and the use of multimedia tools to keep everyone interested – check prices here!

Tour details: this is a small-group tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum with a guide who specializes in tours for families with children. The tour includes skip-the-line access at the Colosseum.

What’s Included: Tickets and entrance to the Colosseum, including your guide and skip-the-line access. Tickets to the Roman Forum.

Meeting Point / Tour Length: meet outside the Colosseo Metro Station at the ground level exit. The guide will be holding a sign with your name on it. The tour lasts around 2 hours 30 minutes and you should arrive at the meeting point ahead of your scheduled tour time. – check prices now!

Book your Colosseum family tour now

5 | Best Colosseum Evening Tour

For a truly unique experience of the Colosseum, we highly recommend taking a night tour of the ancient amphitheater. Visiting the Colosseum is a completely different experience after dark and the lighting at the monument makes it one of our favorite times to visit. Another significant benefit of a night tour is that it avoids the large daytime crowds (and the sometimes stifling heat during summer!).

Tour details: The Colosseum Night Time tour is a guided tour after dark around the Colosseum and includes access to the arena floor and the underground sections of the amphitheater. This really is one of the most unique ways to visit the Colosseum

What’s Included: Tickets and entrance to the Colosseum, including your guide and access to the underground sections of the Colosseum and the Arena Floor. Note: the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill is not included as part of this tour.

Meeting Point / Tour Length: Meet your guide at Via del Colosseo 24, a few minutes walk from the Colosseum. The night tour lasts around 2 hours and you should arrive at the meeting point ahead of your scheduled tour time. – check prices now!

Book your Colosseum night tour now

Everything you need to know about Colosseum Tours

Here’s everything you need to know about taking a Colosseum Tour in Rome:

How Long Are Tours of the Colosseum?

Guided tours of the Colosseum and Roman Forum generally last around 2.5-3 hours, with the Colosseum taking around 1-1.5 hours of this time. While it may seem like a long time the historical sites are very large and the guides will show you around in the most efficient route possible.

A lot of the buildings and areas in the Colosseum and Roman Forum are unmarked with little information, so it is definitely worth having a tour guide to show you around and explain the vast history of the sites.

How much are tours of the Colosseum?

The price of Colosseum tours varies depending on the type of tour and what is included in the ticket. A good quality group tour that includes entrance to the Colosseum starts at around €50 per person. Tours that include the underground and arena sections of the Colosseum will cost slightly more, as will any of the night tours of the Colosseum.

Are all Colosseum Tours the same?

Broadly speaking, most tours of the Colosseum include entry into the Colosseum and a guide to show you around. However there are various tours offered, with some giving access to parts of the Colosseum that other tours do not.

Only select tours allow guests access to the Gladiators Gate which leads to the arena floor, while others give access to the underground sections of the Colosseum where gladiators prepared before their battles. If you wish to see these areas we have included options for tours that include these lesser-visited areas.

Can you really skip the line at the Colosseum?

Yes, you can skip the ticket line (which can be absolutely huge) with all tours. You will still have to pass through security but you avoid the long wait for tickets.

The Security Line at the Colosseum

Anyone planning a visit to the Colosseum in Rome should be aware of the security screening at the Colosseum in Rome. There is a security screening line that is separate from the ticket entrance line. Regardless of the ticket or tour you purchase, you will have to wait in the security line to be checked. This line can get quite long at peak times so it’s worth being aware of this!

One way to reduce the likelihood of a long wait in the security line is to book an early morning tour of the Colosseum. By doing this you’ll avoid the large volumes of people that arrive at the monument by the afternoon and the long security lines!

Best Colosseum Tours in Rome tip: Based on our experience, the security line at the Gladiator Gate entrance tends to be shorter and hence quicker. Some tours may use this entrance.

What to take to the Colosseum

Those under the age of 18 will be required to show a government issues ID or passport when entering the Colosseum to confirm eligibility for a free ticket (this will be priced into the child’s rate for the tour). Depending on when you visit, you might need sunscreen, an umbrella for shade and water.

Tips for Visiting the Colosseum

We have a number of tips for anyone planning a visit to the Colosseum. These should help you to make the most of your time in Rome and make your trip to the Colosseum extra special

• Book your tickets and tours well in advance – tickets and popular tours of the Colosseum tend to sell out well in advance so make sure to book your tickets well in advance.
• Timed entrances – This is extremely important – all tickets to the Colosseum are timed tickets. This is a relatively recent change at the Colosseum as visitor numbers inside the monument are limited to 3,000 at any one time. You must enter the Colosseum at the time designated on your ticket. Make sure you arrive well in advance of your visit as you will miss your entrance slot if you are late.
• Visit early in the day – don’t be tempted by an easy morning! The best time to visit the Colosseum is first thing in the morning. You will avoid the worst of the busy crowds plus you will also get your visit to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum completed before the hottest part of the day.
• Security lines – there is airport-style security at the Colosseum so travel light when you are visiting. Avoid taking larger bags as they are not allowed in.
• Prohibited items – large bags, backpacks and suitcases are not allowed in the Colosseum or the Roman Forum. Visitors should only take a small bag as there is no storage for larger items at the Colosseum
• Pack extra batteries – make sure your cameras and phones are fully charged as you won’t want to miss any good photo opportunities during your tour. We usually pack a battery pack that allows us to charge on the go, like this one

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Disclaimer:  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Let's be friends! Sign up receive our monthly newsletter with updates and new in-depth guides. 

The Best Colosseum Tour in Rome? Our Walks of Italy Experience

Want to do a guided tour of the Colosseum, but you’re not sure if it’s worth it? Or maybe you’re wondering what the best Colosseum Tour in Rome is when there are so many options to choose from? Either way, you’re in the right place. We’re covering our experience on a Colosseum Tour with Walks of Italy that we loved and highly recommend.

When in Rome, you’re going to want to see the Colosseum and Roman Forum. They’re staples on just about any Rome itinerary , and for good reason.

There’s something spectacular about marveling at the ancient architecture and walking the same cobblestone paths (well, sort of the same, anyway) as figures like Julius Caesar did two thousand years ago. 

You’re probably wondering what the best way to experience the Colosseum is, and I have some good news for you. Answering that question is exactly why I wrote this review.

I’ve been to Rome three times now – including more than a week on our latest trip – and I have done the Colosseum three different ways.

Once on my own without a tour or guide, once with your run-of-the-mill tour with a group of 50 people and a guide reciting a memorized script, and once with an expert guide (an archaeologist, which happens to be super relevant here) who brought all sorts of amazing anecdotes and helped us use our imaginations to bring the world of Ancient Rome to life as we explored the Colosseum and Roman Forum together. 

Can you tell which one I’d recommend based on the descriptions I gave?

As you can imagine, there are hundreds – literally hundreds – of different Colosseum + Roman Forum tours out there, and a large percentage of them have stellar reviews. So how in the world do you choose?

The tour we chose is the Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill with Walks of Italy, one of the best tour companies in Italy (and other places around the world), and I’m here to tell you all about it. We think this is the best Colosseum Tour in Rome (though we have two other suggestions at the bottom for a slightly different experience).  

Below, you’ll find the details you need to choose the right tour, including what to expect along the way and some alternative tours to consider. 

Planning a trip to Rome? We spent ten days in Rome on our last trip to Italy, and have plenty of detailed travel guides to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

• 4 Days in Rome: An Amazing Rome Itinerary for First Timers
• The Best Things to Do in Rome: Getting Beyond the Main Sights
• Where to Stay in Rome: A Complete Guide to Rome’s Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Rome: A Complete Gluten Free City Guide for Celiacs

Disclosure : We paid for our own tours with our own hard-earned cash. No sponsored tours here! However, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which just means that if you like what you’re reading and click on a link to book, we get a small percentage of the booking at no additional cost to you. Thanks for reading, and we hope you enjoy your tour!

The Short Version

Don’t have time to read the entire review below? Here’s what you need to know. 

Taking a guided tour of the Colosseum with a knowledgeable guide is well worth the extra money you’ll pay for it versus skip-the-line tickets and exploring on your own (61 Euros vs. 22 Euros). 

You’ll get added context around the history behind the spectacular sights you’re seeing, along with anecdotes and myth-busting facts that will change the way you think about Ancient Rome. You’ll walk away from the experience with a much richer understanding of the two sights, and will learn more than a few things along the way. 

• Duration : 3 hours
• Includes : Skip-the-Line Entrance to the Colosseum and Roman Forum with an Expert Guide
• Max Group Size : 15 people (Our tour happened to only have seven people, which was great!)
• Highlights : The Colosseum, duh, including the best views of the interior and exterior, and the Roman Forum
• Cost : 61 Euros per person

One thing I do want to note: your guide is going to have a huge impact on your experience . For example, our first guide – Dario – was amazing. He had a solid handle on Rome’s history, and wove together a three hour long story over the course of our tour.

We also did the Colosseum at Night Tour with Walks of Italy, and our guide just wasn’t as good at storytelling or answering questions from the group. My point is that your experience might be different from ours depending on the guide you end up with. 

Should You Book a Guided Tour or Do It Yourself?

Having done it both ways, I can definitively say that a guided tour is the way to go. 

In general, over the past several years, I’ve come to the realization that it is almost always worth the extra money to have a local guide show you around a place or city. Here’s an example to illustrate my point.

Have you ever been to a “local market” in a city you’re visiting? On our first trip to Mexico City , we went to a couple of them completely on our own. Which was fine – we basically walked around the market, admiring all the amazing fresh produce and watching people make tortillas for a bit before deciding to move on. It took all of about 15 minutes. 

On our second trip to Mexico City, we did a cooking class that involved an hour long deep dive into that market with a local. We learned about all sorts of peppers that we’d never heard of, tried some chocolate, fruits, and chapulines that our guide recommended, and discovered the deliciousness that is tamales dulces (“sweet tamales”). 

It was a COMPLETELY different experience, and the context that our guide was able to bring to the table – context that we never, ever would have gotten on our own – was invaluable, and led to a much more memorable experience that we still talk about (clearly, because here I am talking about it). 

That’s why we believe you should book a guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum – to have a more rich experience with a guide who will share anecdotes, tidbits, and facts to help you use your imagination to bring Ancient Rome to life. 

Without that context, you’ll probably be walking through the Roman Forum and seeing some old, broken buildings, which will take you all of 30 minutes before you’re ready to move on. 

What to Expect on Your Colosseum + Roman Forum Tour with Walks of Italy

First of all, expect at least a few of the facts you thought you knew about the Colosseum to be flat out wrong. 

At one point, Dario, our excellent guide, posed the group a question; how many times do you think the Colosseum was used per year?

Alysha’s guess was four times a year. Because quarterly, right?

Wrong. Turns out, the answer is less than once a year, which blew my mind. They have this giant, spectacular structure, but it’s only used for one thing, and that one thing only happens once a year, if that? Wild. 

I’m not going to spoil the other myths that got busted along the way, but trust us, there are going to be a few. 

You’ll start your day at the meeting point near the Colosseo Metro stop , an easy walk from the Centro Storico, Monti, or even Termini (we ended up walking after the line to buy tickets for the metro at Termini was gigantic), where you’ll meet your guide, get an introduction to the day ahead, and get a headset. 

At first, we thought headsets were lame, but as the tour progressed, we realized that if every single guide was yelling to make sure the entire group could hear, the entire place would be more chaotic and crazy than it already is. Plus, the headsets save the guide’s voices. 

From there, you’ll enter the Colosseum, which is a breeze because you get to use a separate line saved for guided tours, and your guide will do the talking (in Italian) and all you have to do is put your bag through the scanner and say “grazie” as you walk by the security team. 

You’ll head to the Colosseum and get your first glimpse of the interior. After a few pictures, you’ll find a nice shady spot to sit down and talk about the history around you (and do some myth busting too). 

After the first level and a history lesson, you and the group will head up to the second level, which is where some of our favorite photo spots of the day were.

Eventually, you’ll end your time after spending a few minutes at the northwestern side looking at the Arch of Constantine (where another myth gets shattered) before exiting the Colosseum and moving on to the Forum. 

Finally, you will enter the Forum – which is again super easy thanks to the skip-the-line aspect and the fact that your guide is there to do the talking – and head to the Imperial Forum to see a few of the sights on Palatine Hill before moving on to the core of the Forum.

You’ll end with a stop at the place where Julius Caesar was cremated (though, SPOILER ALERT, we learned that he actually didn’t die in the Forum as we know it today, but over near Largo di Torre Argentina in the Centro Storico).

Over the course of the entire tour, Dario (our guide) pointed out little details that we NEVER would have noticed on our own, like the reliefs featuring gladiators in their full garb inside the Colosseum, or the reliefs on the Arch of Titus depicting the triumphal procession after the sack of Jerusalem during the Jewish War in Judea in the 1st Century C.E.

Those are just two examples of richness that Dario brought to our tour that made our experience that much more memorable and immersive. 

Tips for Your Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

Here are a few things to know if you decide to book this tour. 

• Rome is hot during the summer months (and spring and fall, but less so). The entirety of this tour takes place outside. Dario did a pretty good job at making sure we had shade, plenty of water breaks, and more, but the portion in the Forum got hot. Bring a reusable water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses and be prepared to be in the sun for long stretches. 
• For whatever reason, the stairs in the Colosseum are super steep . You can take the elevator for some of them, but be prepared to traverse at least one set of steep stairs over the course of the day. 
• Bring walking shoes . And leave the stilettos at home. You’ll be covering a lot of ground, particularly in the Forum, so you’ll want comfortable footwear. The ground is also mostly cobblestone, which aren’t exactly known for being even or flat. 

Alternatives to This Particular Tour

There are two Walks of Italy alternative tours that I want to highlight here for the unique offerings they bring to the table. 

The first is the VIP Colosseum Underground Tour (with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill), which takes you under the arena floor to a part of the Colosseum that the vast majority of visitors never get to explore.

It’s more expensive – mostly because tickets themselves to enter this part of the Colosseum are more expensive – but it’s a completely different experience than most people get. 

The second, and another Colosseum tour that we did on our latest trip to Rome, is the VIP Colosseum at Night Tour , which includes the underground portion mentioned above along with the arena floor, but takes place after hours when 99% of the tourists have gone home for the day.

Bonus: it’s not BLAZING HOT (though it will still be warm if it was hot during the day).

Seeing the Colosseum at night is a really unique experience, and you get to go underground on this tour and see the belly of the arena.

Our guide for this version of the tour was not nearly as good as Dario at weaving together a narrative and telling a story (it was kind of just a lot of disjointed facts), but that’s probably an exception rather than the rule. 

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Colosseum Tours

Iconic symbol of the eternal city.

What sums up Rome more than an insider's look into its most famous monument? The Colosseum conjures excitement in all who set eyes on it. From its massive size to purpose, it is both harrowing and graceful to behold.

No-Wait Entry

Exclusive access, more options, our best-selling colosseum guided tours.

Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Semi-Private Colosseum Tour with Special Access to the Arena Floor, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Follow in the footsteps of the emperors.

Colosseum Underground Small Group Tour with Roman Forum & Gladiator Arena

Private Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Special Visit by Evening: Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor and Roman Forum

More great experiences in rome.

Vatican & Sistine Chapel

Pompeii & Amalfi

Day Trips from Rome

Something Different

Find out more, customer reviews, recommended colosseum posts.

Colosseum Tours

Best colosseum tours, colosseum highlights.

Welcome to the Colosseum, one of the world’s most visited monuments! The Colosseum has been the iconic symbol of Rome since its construction was completed in 80 AD. This incredible amphitheater could seat upwards of 50,000 spectators and hosted famous gladiator battles. The facade has seen its share of pilfering and damage over the years but it is still remarkably beautiful even 2,000 years later.

Did you know that Colosseum tickets have been used at the monuments since its inauguration? Although the modern-day ticket looks much different to that of ancient times, the system used in ancient times when entering with Colosseums tickets is the same that is used in stadiums today. You can still see the roman numerals that are carved above the Colosseum entrances that directed spectators to their sections. It is believed that the Colosseum could be filled or emptied in a matter of minutes.

Millions of visitors line up to visit the Colosseum every year in order to immerse themselves in ancient history. This, of course, means that large crowds and long ticket lines are hard to avoid. Fortunately, special access and Colosseum skip the line tickets are available to savvy travelers who book their Colosseum guided tour online in advance.

There are various types of ticket/tour options available that will fit your unique needs. Whether it is a quick Colosseum audio guide tour before you depart Rome or an in-depth experience that explores the underground dungeons of the Colosseum, your perfect tour awaits.

Colosseum guided tours come in a variety of options like small groups or private experiences that include a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. You can even book a Colosseum audio guide tour or Colosseum skip the line tickets if you would like to explore the area at your own pace.

Discover the Colosseum

Skip The Line Colosseum Arena & Underground Tours

• Colosseum Arena skip-the-line tours and tickets will take you past the long ticket lines and directly onto the Colosseum’s arena stage - Rome’s most famous attraction.
• A licensed guide will accompany you and your group, describing the Colosseum Arena’s history and sharing interesting facts.
• The Colosseum Underground tour is an opportunity to visit the most restricted area of the Colosseum and explore what lies beneath the Colosseum’s arena floor.
• The history of the Colosseum Underground and the Colosseum Arena floor will come to life when you're with a passionate and knowledgeable tour guide.

A Stroll Through Ancient Rome at Your Own Pace

• Booking a Colosseum Private Tour will allow you to explore the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum at your own pace and a private tour guide will cater the tour to your needs.
• Colosseum audio guide tours and skip the line tickets also include access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
• You will be following in the footsteps of Rome’s great historical figures, like Julius Caesar, as you admire ancient temples, markets and palaces.
• Your tour guide’s passion and depth of knowledge will help you to imagine what ancient life was like and appreciate the amazing history. 

Specialty Tours offer a NEW way to visit the Colosseum

• Experiencing the Colosseum Night Tour is an amazing opportunity to walk through the Colosseum under the moonlight.
• The Colosseum Night Tour tickets are very limited with small groups being allowed inside at timed intervals. It will just be you and the few other travelers exploring the Colosseum together.
• The Colosseum Virtual Tour is a modern way to look into the past. See the Colosseum in all of its glory with the help of your Colosseum virtual reality headset.
• The Colosseum Virtual Tour can be experienced while standing outside of the monument so you can immediately see the difference between the original design and what remains today.

Visitor Highlights

• Colosseum Tickets and Colosseum Tours are an essential part of any holiday in Rome and should be one of the first things considered when organizing your itinerary.
• A Colosseum ticket will grant you access to the Colosseum as well as an entrance to the archaeological area covering the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
• Unique and interesting Colosseum tours are available every day. Simply choose the tour that works best for you and reserve your spot online. You can rest assured that your Colosseum tour will be unforgettable.
• Choosing a Colosseum guided tour is the ideal way to experience its history and gain an appreciation of Ancient Rome. Plus, your guide will entertain you with interesting facts and funny anecdotes.
• Passing through the Colosseum’s original gates and gazing out to the Colosseum Arena Floor is an unforgettable experience.
• One of the most beautiful views of Rome comes during the Colosseum tour as you stand on the balcony and can see the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill spreading out before you.
• Following your guide during the Roman Forum tour, you will be walking on the same stones as the ancient romans. The temples, markets and public buildings you visit during the Roman Forum tour have been there for thousands of years.
• The remains of the palaces that you see during the Palatine Hill tour are just a small portion of what once was.
• The imperial palaces on the Palatine Hill were covered in white marble and towered over the city of Rome as a symbol of emperors’ power.
• There are an array of Colosseum guided tours available. Tours vary in length (1.5 to 3 hours) and access (standard, arena, underground) so it’s easy to find the tour that perfectly suits your needs.
• The Colosseum is open year round except January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.

Travel Tips

• If you have booked a Colosseum ticket, make sure you have it downloaded to your phone or printed.
• Your Colosseum ticket should have a barcode that you will scan at the turnstile before entering the Colosseum.
• Make sure you have enough time to find your meeting point for your Colosseum tour. Try to arrive at least 15 minutes before the Colosseum tour departure time.
• Don’t slow your group down, make sure to use a bathroom before the tour begins. Public toilets are not easy to find and most cafes require a purchase to use their facilities.
• Only bring what you plan to carry. There are no luggage facilities for Colosseum ticket holders or Colosseum tour participants.
• Security has been increased and many sites will require visitors to pass through a metal detector and scan their belongings.
• Do not bring large bags/luggage, this includes roller bags. Only small bags are allowed inside the Colosseum.
• The Colosseum is wheelchair accessible. Not all Colosseum tours will follow a path that is wheelchair accessible so be sure to check the tour details. Private tours are the easiest option.
• Set aside time for your Colosseum tour and book in advance. Half a day is an adequate amount of time to truly enjoy your visit.
• Prices vary depending on the type and duration of the tour you wish to book. The smaller the group and the more restricted areas of access included, the higher the price.

Know Before You Go

Safety measures:

• Face masks covering the nose and mouth are required
• Temperature checks will be carried out at the entrance
• Social distancing measures will be enforced inside the monument

What to bring:

• Colosseum Ticket (downloaded pdf or printed)
• Colosseum Tour voucher (downloaded or printed)
• Passport/ID card or photocopy
• Clothing that is weather appropriate
• Comfortable shoes
• Water (bottles can be refilled inside)

Reduced price tickets:

Reduced price tickets are available for ages 2 to 15 years and a passport/ID with proof of age is required, a school ID is not sufficient. Identification will be required and checked upon entrance to any of the sites. If you do not have the correct form of identification or you do not qualify for a reduced price ticket you will be required to purchase a new ticket. If there are no tickets available, you may be asked to leave the tour group.

Things that are not allowed:

• Weapons or sharp objects
• Luggage or large bag
• Small bags/backpacks with wheels

Getting There

How to the reach the Colosseum:

• Train: There are three main train stations in Rome (Termini, Tiburtina, Ostiense). All three have access to the metro line B.
• Metro line B (blue line): the Colosseum metro stop is on the metro line B (blue line).
• Metro line A (red line):  go to the Termini metro station and switch to line B (direction Laurentina). Get off at the Colosseum metro stop.
• Metro line C (yellow line): go to the San Giovanni station and switch to the line A (direction Battistini). Then go to Termini station and switch to line B (direction Laurentina. Get off at the Colosseo metro stop.
• Bus: Many public buses stop in front of/nearby the Colosseum - 75, 81, 85, 87, 117, 118.
• Car: Paid parking is available around the Colosseum. Make sure to leave your ticket on your car’s dashboard. It is recommended to pay for extra time just in case.
• Tram: The #3 tram passes the Colosseum. The #8 tram stops at Piazza Venezia which is a 15/20 minute walk to the Colosseum’s entrance.
• By foot: The Colosseum is located in the center of Rome and is easily accessible by foot. Always allow extra time before your Colosseum ticket entrance time or Colosseum start time.
• By bike: Make sure to park your bicycle outside of the Colosseum piazza area because it may be removed by the authorities. Always lock your bicycle securely to avoid theft.

Note:  On Sundays, the Imperial Forum Road is closed to bus/taxi traffic. Make sure you check the detour route if you are taking the bus and allow yourself extra time to arrive.

Colosseum Underground Tours

Choose the best Colosseum guided tour

Skip The Line Colosseum Underground Night Tour VIP Experience

Experience the Colosseum at night, exploring its underground and arena floor away from crowds. Led by experts, discover gladiatorial battle sites, hidden tunnels, and ancient engineering. Immerse in the history of Roman Empire games and events.

• Skip the line access to the Colosseum
• Access to Colosseum Underground area
• Live guide in English and/or Italian

Best price:

Colosseum, Underground & Arena Floor Guided Tour

890+ reviews

Dig into the Colosseum’s dungeons and the wild animals' holding areas, complete with remains of ancient elevators and trapdoors. Enjoy breathtaking 360º views from the arena, exclusive access to the Colosseum's underground, and single entrance tickets to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, all while benefiting from headsets for clear guidance.

• Skip-the-line tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Headsets to better hear your guide
• Access to Colosseum Arena and Underground areas
• Live guide in English

Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome guided tour

2 900+ reviews

Delve deep in the history of ancient Rome with a guided visit to the Colosseum, its world-famous arena where gladiators fought to the death and the hypogeum, the underground ‘backstage’ network of tunnels and chambers. Continue your journey through time with a tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

• Priority tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Guided Tour of the Colosseum Underground with Roman Forum & Gladiator Arena

4 200+ reviews

Explore the Roman Colosseum with an exclusive skip-the-line underground tour, including special access to the Gladiator Arena, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill over 2.5-3 hours. Enjoy the company of an expert guide with many gladiator tales to share!

• Live guide in English, Italian, German, Spanish or French

Private Colosseum Tour with Arena and Underground

40+ reviews

Explore the Colosseum's underground and arena floor, marvel at the Roman Forum's ruins, and enjoy skip-the-line access with a private guide on this tour from your central Rome hotel, offering a deep dive into ancient history.

• Hotel pickup in private vehicle
• Live guide in German, English, Italian, French or Spanish

Visiting the Underground of the Colosseum

Colosseum’s underground guided tour benefits.

Booking a guided tour of the Colosseum's underground provides visitors with exclusive access to areas normally restricted to the general public as well as a rich historical context that elevates the experience beyond a simple walkthrough. Knowledgeable guides, often with a background in history or archaeology, narrate the compelling stories of what unfolded in these ancient spaces.

Accessibility at the Colosseum’s Underground

The underground levels are not wheelchair accessible due to their structure including stairs and steps. Those with mobility impairments should contact the tour operator before booking to discuss if accommodations can be made.

Exclusive Colosseum Underground Areas

The underground circuit of the Colosseum reveals the dungeons where animals and gladiators awaited their fate, and the complex tunnels where intricate machinery once hoisted them into the arena floor.

The exclusive itinerary of an Underground Colosseum guided tour often includes access through the Gladiator's Gate, a dramatic entrance leading directly to the arena, where combatants once entered to roaring crowds. Visitors will also see the remnants of the elevator systems, a testament to Roman engineering prowess. Additionally, some tours offer the rare chance to stand at the Gate of Death, the exit through which the fallen were carried away.

The depth of detail provided by the expert guide makes it clear why this access is such a privilege, while the panoramic views from various vantage points forge an indelible connection with ancient Rome.

FAQs and tips

The Best Colosseum Tours For Families Coming To Rome

If you are looking for the best Colosseum tours for families planning on visiting Rome, Italy then you should check out these recommendations while you plan.

Crowds All Day

When you are visiting Rome, Italy for the first time with your family, you probably have visiting the Colosseum on your short list of things to do, and you should. There are, however, a few things that you will want to consider when planning your tour, and these recommendations are here to help.

Tips For Families Visiting The Colosseum

There are a few things you will need to remember when you are visiting the Colosseum in Rome and it is even more important if you have a large family because the costs are multiplied. For example:

Plan Ahead – Tickets for the Colosseum go fast, so be sure to order them online once you know your travel schedule. I have a guide for Buying Tickets For The Colosseum , Palatine Hill And Roman Forum that I think will help.

Don’t Underestimate The Summer Heat – This goes for the entire family because touring outdoors in the summer heat can be difficult, so be sure to bring water, a hat and wear loose clothing.

Bring Identification For The Entire Family – Rome has now been putting the visitor’s names on the tickets to cut down on the abuses of the past, but you will need to bring your passports when you try to enter.

Is The Colosseum Child Friendly?

The child friendliness of the Colosseum depends on the age of your child. For example, if your child is in a stroller, it is possible, but much more difficult to navigate around the Colosseum. There are elevators, but you could get separated from your group and even though it is an oval, you might lose your group, which would be problematic.

If your child is out of a stroller and can climb stairs, then you shouldn’t have any problems staying with your group and enjoying the tours. The only obstacle I found was when we toured the upper levels of the Colosseum, because the stairs are quite high. There aren’t a lot of them, but they are a bit of a workout.

Underground Tours

Is It Better To Do A Guided Tour Of The Colosseum?

The most important part of a great tour is a knowledgeable tour guide. The best guides can make history come alive and make the seemingly uninteresting relevant to today. The Colosseum is an archeological site in the center of one of the most important cities on Earth over the last 2,000 years. Surely there is something you can learn from a guide.

From my experiences (I’ve paid for four different tours over the years) paying for a tour guide is definitely worth it. You can do a self-guided tour, but I have enjoyed the knowledgeable tour guides every time. This isn’t a place to save money.

How Long Is A Guided Tour Of The Colosseum?

You should expect that a tour, like the Colosseum Night Tour, will last around an hour to an hour and a half just to tour the Colosseum. If you plan on taking a lot of pictures, then your experiences may differ. If you have a bundled ticket that includes tours of the Roman Forum and Palatine, then you will be there for at least 4 to 5 hours, but you will want to add a little more time for food and water between the individual sites.

How To Get Free Tickets For Kids To The Colosseum?

Entry to the Colosseum is free for visitors who are younger than eighteen years of age. Visitors who are under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Children under the age of 18 will be allowed to enter together with paying adults on the same date and at the same time indicated on the ticket and they will be able to collect their free ticket after passing the security checks, directly at the ticket office inside the Colosseum.

Our Informative Tour Guide

Your other option is to take advantage of the free entry available to everyone on the first Sunday of every month, but as you might imagine, it is quite popular on those days, and entry might be difficult to get.

Can You Do The Colosseum Without A Tour Guide?

You can get a basic ticket for €16 that only allows you access to the Colosseum. I do recommend, however, that you consider a guided tour, either from the Colosseum staff or from one of the many great tour companies that I’ve linked to here. There are times to save money, but I don’t believe this is one of them. I’ve taken four different tours over the years and I enjoyed each and every one, and I learned something new every time.

What Is The Best Colosseum Tour To Take With Your Family?

As I’ve mentioned above, I would not recommend doing a self-guided tour, so one of the options you have are the tours run by the Colosseum staff, like these:

Colosseum, Roman Forum And Palatine – Full Experience

Forum Pass Super Additional Fee For “Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine-24h Ticket” Holders

The Night Tour ( Luna Sul Colosseo )

Night Might Not Be Best For Children

If you want to look at an external tour group that you can be confident with, I would recommend checking out Viator’s website and consider these:

Skip the Line : Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Tour

Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena and Forum

Colosseum VIP Access with Arena and Ancient Rome Tour

Colosseum with Arena Access and Ancient Rome Tour

More Information About Colosseum Tours, History And Visiting Rome

If you enjoyed this article about taking a tour of the  best Colosseum tours for families , or at least found it useful, here are some other posts that you should check out before you finish you vacation planning for your visit to Rome, Italy:

• The  Colosseum At Night  Tour Is A Worthwhile Experience.
• 12 Amazing  Secrets Of The Colosseum  In Rome.
• The  Ancient Roman Colosseum  Is Definitely Worth Visiting.
• FAQ About  Buying Tickets For The C o losseum , Palatine Hill And Roman Forum.
• Nero’s Golden Palace  Was Not Loved.
• The  Forum of Augustus  – History, Tours and Tickets.
• Beautiful Places In Rome, Italy  That Shouldn’t Be Missed.
• Colle Oppio Park  Is Great For Budget Family Travel in Rome.
• Is The Roma Pass Worth It ? This Guide Will Help You Decide.
• The Palatine Hill In Rome  – This Is Your Guide.

Similar Posts

The Ancient Roman Colosseum Is Definitely Worth Visiting

The ancient Roman Colosseum is the most popular site for visitors to Rome, Italy and definitely worth the time to visit it at least once, if not even more.

Aventine Hill In Rome Is A Beautiful Escape From The Chaos

The beautiful Aventine Hill in Rome is a spectacular place you should check out because of the unique and stunning surprises to be found around every corner.

The Piazza Venezia History Is As Dramatic As The Square

The Piazza Venezia history as the centerpiece of Rome spans more than a century of changes that you should know to make your next visit even more special.

Drinking Fountains in Rome Are Free And Known As Nasoni

The drinking fountains in Rome have delivered clean drinkable water for over 2000 years and you can enjoy free, safe water from the “nasoni” all over Rome.

Piazza del Popolo Rome – The Beauty And The History

Piazza del Popolo Rome is one of the top spots when you are walking in the city during your next Italian vacation because there is beauty behind every corner.

Train Travel In Italy Has Never Been More Exciting!

When choosing train travel in Italy you have some great options, including high-speed and regional trains. This guide helps you travel in Italy with ease.

Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best personal item bags, tested & reviewed.

Find your best carry-on companion with our top editor picks.

The Best Personal Item Bags

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

When you're traveling on an airplane, there are certain items like your wallet, phone, passport, medications and earbuds that you always want to keep close. These are the items you'll want to pack in your personal item bag, along with other in-flight comfort items or perhaps a few souvenirs you're bringing home with you. When it comes to a personal item, there are many options that could be right for you, though keep in mind what airlines will allow can vary.

What size is a personal item bag?

This item can be a purse , bag or backpack that easily fits under the seat in front of you. For most domestic airlines, your personal item should be 18 x 14 x 8 inches or smaller. Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag that goes into the overhead bin and one personal item bag that can be stowed under the seat. For both carry-on and personal item bags, it's important to check your airline's carry-on luggage size requirements and policies.

To help you decide what personal item bag meets your needs, our editors shared their go-to bags they personally use when traveling by air.

Best Foldable: Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hip Pack: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack

Best tote: everlane the recycled nylon tote, best backpack: away the everywhere zip backpack, best organization: nomad lane bento bag, best washable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best laptop backpack: fila argus 5 laptop backpack, best for adventure travel: osprey nebula 32, best affordable: gorilla wear duncan backpack, best duffel: lipault city plume 24h bag 2.0.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of personal item bags are height by width by depth.)

Nicola Wood | U.S. News

Price: $155 or less

Travelers will frequently spot this classic tote at airports and hotels around the world for good reason. It folds up easily for storage when not in use, and it has a roomy main compartment with a small interior pocket for a phone, boarding pass and a cardholder. Longchamp's Le Pliage Large tote is made of the brand's durable water-resistant nylon and finished with its signature embossed leather trim.

What our editors say:

I love traveling with my Longchamp Le Pliage tote. It's big enough to hold a laptop and all other essentials, and it has both a zipper and a snap-close leather flap, so you won't have to worry about anything falling out during travel. It is versatile enough to use throughout your vacation as a handbag, or you can fold it up and store it away once you reach your destination. The Le Pliage tote is made of nylon, so it is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean after traveling. There is a small interior pocket that can hold a boarding pass, phone or cardholder, or you can pop in a separate organizer from Amazon for multiple interior compartments. The Le Pliage tote comes in a variety of colors, so there's something for everyone. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $30 or less

If you're looking to travel light and maximize leg space, this Cotopaxi hip pack is ideal. Strap it around your waist or shoulder for hands-free travel, and reach your wallet or passport quickly. There's a spacious main compartment for your phone, wallet and boarding pass. Plus, a front zippered compartment can hold things like gum or earbuds. Constructed of 100% fabric scraps, each hip pack is sustainable and one-of-a-kind.

My top priority when traveling by plane is ample leg room, so Cotopaxi fanny packs are the perfect under-the-seat choice. I like the smaller Kapai 1.5 L Hip Pack for storing my essentials on shorter flights: phone, wallet, tissues, lip balm and earbuds. (There's also a 3L version .) For longer flights, the larger Allpa X 4L Hip Pack can fit a lot more, including a small book, Nintendo Switch and snack. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $85 or less

This versatile tote is constructed with recycled nylon, which makes it easy to clean as well as sustainable. The padded bottom helps to protect your laptop and other contents. The main compartment has a zippered pocket and a 13-inch laptop sleeve. You can carry the bag with its tote straps or over the shoulder, and there's an exterior slip pocket for small items.

My favorite thing about this bag is that it's structured, but also easily pliable when it's time to stow it underneath my seat. The exterior pocket allows for easy access to small items like earbuds and hand sanitizer, and the larger main compartment is roomy enough for my laptop, 32-ounce water bottle, snacks, a small toiletry bag and a book. I also appreciate its sleek simplicity and sustainable materials. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $195 or less

This backpack from Away has a variety of interior and exterior pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve with a magnetic locking zipper, an interior mesh pocket for a small water bottle and two external hidden pockets. It has a versatile design that works for trips to the office, day tours and leisure trips. For carrying options, the backpack has comfortable padded shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve to secure it to your favorite carry-on bag.

For my personal item, I'm all about function over fashion and this bag manages to hit both marks. I especially love the interior key clip – I actually use it for my wallet so I easily find my ID and credit card and not risk losing them. – Amanda Norcross , Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $298 or less

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag has a sleek and professional look that makes it work for both personal and business travel, especially with the 16-inch padded laptop sleeve that you can access from the top. It comes with a toiletries pouch and an electronics organizer that tuck inside two exterior pockets, so you can easily remove them at security. The bag has a variety of organizational pockets, including a trolley sleeve that converts into a pocket. It works well as a personal item bag, and can be used as a weekender bag if you're a light packer.

The Bento Bag is truly exceptional for organization. Not only can it fit a ton for its size, but I love how it also keeps my belongings separated and neat while still easy to access on the go. When I travel with it, the bag is comfortable to carry and fits under the seat in front of me with no issue. I also just appreciate how sophisticated it looks. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

This timeless design has sturdy straps to comfortably carry the bag through airports and more. It's affordable, durable and machine washable. The interior compartment can accommodate everything from a toiletry bag to souvenirs, yet it still fits under the seat with a comfortable amount of room for your feet.

I've used this Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag as my personal item for years. I love the soft-sided design of this bag and it can fit an impressive amount. There's also an interior zippered pocket and two smaller open pockets for organization. Typically, I'll pack my laptop, various chargers, one to two books, an extra set of clothes and shoes, my wallet, my makeup bag, AirPods, snacks, a water bottle, and my phone. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Suzanne Mason | U.S. News

Price: $70 or less

Perfect as a work, gym or travel bag, this durable backpack has multiple pockets to keep everything organized wherever you roam. The budget-friendly backpack has a spacious main compartment with an internal mesh pocket and a separate 15-inch laptop compartment. Its padded straps provide comfort while carrying the bag for long periods of time, and the front zippered compartment is ideal for a boarding pass, pen or phone.

I love my Fila Argus 5 Laptop Backpack. I use it for both travel and for work. The backpack has a pocket in the back separating the main space in the back. I usually carry my iPad or laptop there and use the rest of the space to carry any items I couldn't fit in my luggage or trinkets that I'm bringing back for souvenirs. The front pocket I love because it's a zippered space where I can put my important traveling documents and other miscellaneous items needed for my travels. The backpack straps are wide and padded making it comfortable to wear on my back. The backpack is small enough to fit under a plane seat if you need to access the bag while in flight. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

Zach Watson | U.S. News

Price: $140 or less

This spacious backpack offers the design features of a more technical backpack − like a removable webbing belt along with top and bottom compression straps − but with an emphasis on everyday needs. There are numerous interior pockets to keep all of your travel essentials securely stowed, a TSA-approved laptop sleeve and a front zippered organization pocket. The exterior has two deep, adjustable side pockets that can fit two Nalgene-size water bottles. The Osprey Nebula 32 features two padded straps and a breathable back to help make carrying the bag more comfortable, even in humid climates.

My Osprey Nebula 32 is in the running for my oldest personal possession; I've used it for over a decade. That means this Nebula pack started as a college backpack, lugging my textbooks between classes in Chicago snowstorms before joining me in Washington, D.C., where it kept my belongings safe on my humid (and occasionally rainy) bike commutes. Now, I primarily use my backpack for hiking and flying, and it still holds up remarkably well despite my regular mistreatment. I don't intend to replace my go-to personal item anytime soon, so this Osprey backpack has absolutely justified its admittedly high upfront cost. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Alissa Grisler | U.S. News

Price: $59.99 or less

Durable and ideal for everyday use or adventures afar, this backpack has a simple design with plenty of packing space. The spacious interior can hold a lot, including your toiletry bag, reading material, change of clothes and more. The laptop sleeve and variety of compartments help to keep items organized and in place. The exterior offers adjustable padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for comfort, a headphone opening, two mesh pockets and a front zippered compartment.

When purchasing a bag, I am looking for something that is durable and multifunctional. With its many storage compartments and large carrying capacity (perfect for the chronic over-packer or anyone who just can't say no to a souvenir), this bag is perfect for both travel and everyday use. – Alissa Grisler , Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $135 or less

Lightweight and constructed with water repellent nylon, this bag is durable, yet sophisticated. There are two large front pockets for smaller items like a 3-1-1 bag, headphones, wipes and small travel essentials, plus a side pocket for a water bottle or small items. Inside, the spacious interior compartment has a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets and a mesh pocket for keeping things organized, in addition to room for a toiletry bag, in-flight needs and souvenirs you find along the way. The bag features a separate zippered laptop compartment on the back, along with a trolley sleeve to attach it to your carry-on bag, like the coordinating Plume Cabin Size Spinner . What's more, it folds flat to save space when not in use.

I bought my original Lipault City Plume bag for my first trip to Europe over a decade ago. It's been a top pick for my travels for years, and it still looks and works great. The updated City Plume 24H Bag 2.0 is beautifully constructed, stays looking great even through the rigors of travel, fits perfectly under the seat and holds a lot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood strives to be a carry-on only traveler. Over the years she's tested a variety of bags from multiple brands at an array of prices. To curate this article, she asked her team of editors to share their favorite personal item bags that have worked for all types of travel scenarios.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Checked Luggage, Tested by Editors
• The Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best east coast beaches.

April 19, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024

The Best Hard-sided Luggage Picks

The Best Yellowstone National Park Tours

John Rodwan April 17, 2024

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz April 17, 2024

Best Alaska Tours

Lyn Mettler April 16, 2024

The Best Fredericksburg Wine Tours

The 17 Best Costa Rica Tours

Lyn Mettler April 12, 2024

Hard vs. Soft Luggage

Rachael Hood April 12, 2024

The 5 Best Rome Colosseum Tours With Skip-the-Line Access

A s the most enduring symbol of the Roman Empire and one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Colosseum receives more than 6 million visitors per year, so it's not easy to escape the crowds. A visit is worth it, though, if you want to see the world's largest amphitheater – once known as the Flavian Amphitheater – and try to imagine what it would have been like 2,000 years ago.

A standard ticket to the Colosseum also includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, so many (but not all) tours also include those ancient sites. Inside the ancient complex, there is very little signage explaining what you're looking at. A good guide will not only get you skip-the-line access but also bring these incredible places to life. Keep in mind that most Colosseum tours only give you access to the arena floor and upper level. If you want to visit the underground hypogeum, you need to make sure it's included in the tour.

Crown Tours: Skip the line Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum tour

Price: Adults from $84; kids from $67

Duration: 3 hours

Standout perk: Engaging guides speak several languages.

Selected by GetYourGuide as a Certified Experience, this group tour starts at the Colosseum, then takes you to the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Groups consist of up to 30 people, and tourgoers are given headsets so they can better hear and follow the guide. The tour meets at Largo Gaetana Agnesi on the hill overlooking the Colosseum about 30 minutes before the official entry time to get everyone checked in and set up with headsets. The guide then leads participants into the Colosseum and up to the second level, where there's a chance to stop and take photos. On the way back down, there's another photo-op at the arena level before the guide leads the group over to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum.

Crown Tours also offers guided tours of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica, as well as the Borghese Gallery, Pantheon and other sites.

Local tip: This tour is offered over a variety of time slots every day. Pick one of the earlier time slots to make sure you'll finish up by lunchtime.

Check prices & availability on:

Button Enhancement : Travel - The 5 Best Rome Colosseum Tours With Skip-the-Line Access - Crown Tours (Viator)

Through Eternity Tours: Ultimate Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $95

Standout perk: This tour includes the Palatine Hill, which some tours skip.

Recent visitors praise the knowledgeable guides for their passion about ancient history and keeping the tour moving while explaining everything in detail. This tour starts at 9:30 a.m. seven days a week and finishes up around lunchtime. In addition to the Colosseum, highlights include the Via Sacra and the House of the Vestal Virgins in the Roman Forum, as well as the Farnese Gardens on the Palatine Hill.

This tour starts at 9:15 a.m. daily. Groups are limited to 10 people; if six or more people are taking the tour, the guide gives out headsets so everyone can hear. Participants are asked to meet 10 minutes before the start time in front of Cafe/Restaurant Angelino ai Fori on Largo Corrado Ricci. The tour is stroller-accessible, but not wheelchair-accessible. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle, especially on hot days.

Through Eternity Tours offers a variety of group and private tours of Rome and other destinations, including Florence , Naples and Pompeii.

Local tip: Book a table at the nearby Taverna dei Fori Imperiali to enjoy a leisurely lunch after the tour.

Button Enhancement : Travel - Through Eternity Tours: Ultimate Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill - Crown Tours (Viator)

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

LivTours: The Best of Colosseum & Ancient Rome With Exclusive Arena Access

Price: Adults from $163; kids from $145

Standout perk: Virtual reality headsets show what the ancient sites would have looked like.

Recent tourgoers praise the guides on this tour for bringing the facts and stories about ancient Rome to life. Along with the confirmation email, participants receive an invitation to download an app. During the tour, the guide gives everyone a cardboard virtual reality headset that works with the app and shows a reconstruction of the Colosseum and the surrounding valley. After visiting the Colosseum, the tour continues to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, where the virtual reality headsets show you a reconstruction of the Circus Maximus and the structures in the Roman Forum. At all the sites, you get skip-the-line access.

These semiprivate tours are guaranteed to have no more than six people, making them a more personalized experience than other group tours. However, because the tours are small, the guides don't use headsets, and some participants noted that it can be difficult to hear the guide over the noise in the Colosseum.

Local tip: You can get some great photos from the upper level, especially if you stand at the apex of the oval.

Button Enhancement : Travel - The 5 Best Rome Colosseum Tours - LivTours (Viator)

Roma Experience: Private Colosseum Tour With Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Price: From $531

Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes

Standout perk: See these ancient sites with an archaeologist who dug at the Roman Forum.

For a deeper understanding (no pun intended) of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, a tour with Elisa Valeria Bove, CEO of Roma Experience, is one of the best you can buy. She studied archaeology and has been involved in excavations at the Roman Forum and other sites, so she's just the person to guide you if you want to get beyond the surface level. Her private tours range from just under three hours for a skip-the-line Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tour to the full-day "See Rome in One Day" tour, which also includes a guided visit of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Be sure to specify if you want to visit the hypogeum when you book.

Roma Experience organizes bespoke private tours throughout Italy, including multiday itineraries. Bove will work with you to customize your experience and bring you to places you wouldn't think to visit, like Quintili's Villa on the ancient Appian Way.

Local tip: If you want to see another incredible archaeological park, let Bove take you to Ostia Antica, less than an hour from Rome.

Button Enhancement : Travel - The 5 Best Rome Colosseum Tours - Roma Experience (Viator)

Imago Artis Travel: Timeless Tales of Gods and Laymen of the Ancient Rome

Price: On request

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: This tour includes the Pantheon in addition to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Founded by three art historians with a passion for Roman art and history, Imago Artis Travel offers bespoke private tours of Rome and beyond. Imago Artis works closely with their clients to craft personalized itineraries that highlight the city's most incredible monuments and hidden gems. This tour lasts a half-day and includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Pantheon, with an optional stop for espresso, but you can customize the itinerary to do a full-day tour or multiday itinerary.

Other itineraries that include the Colosseum bring visitors to the Basilica of San Clemente, known as the "lasagna church" because it was built in layers: The deeper you descend, the further back in time you go. Imago Artis also grants visitors exclusive access to off-limits places, such as a church overlooking the Roman Forum. The company also organizes multiday itineraries throughout Italy.

Local tip: There's an element of surprise and delight with Imago Artis that's hard to find elsewhere, especially if your guide is Fulvio De Bonis, one of the company's founders.

Button Enhancement : Travel - The 5 Best Rome Colosseum Tours - Imago Artis Travel

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura Itzkowitz is a Rome-based freelance journalist who thinks about the Roman Empire all the time. She has visited the Colosseum in the morning, in the evening after the crowds have left, on group tours and private tours. To curate this list of the best Colosseum tours, she used her own experience as well as her research expertise, culling tips from locals and visitors.

FAQ Module : The 5 Best Rome Colosseum Tours With Skip-the-Line Access FAQ - travel

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Rome Tours: Food, The Vatican & More
• The Top Italy Tours
• The Best Things to Do in Rome
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report