colosseum belvedere tour

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The Official Colosseum Belvedere & Underground Tour

Rome, Italy

• Skip the line for quick access at the Colosseum in Rome
• Learn about Ancient Rome with commentary from your guide
• Walk out onto the Colosseum’s arena floor and hear tales of gladiator battles
• Marvel at panoramic views of Rome from the Colosseum's upper level

What's Included

Departure & return, departure point, return details, what to expect, additional info.

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
• Entrance is strictly limited so you must arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your departure time. Anyone who arrives after their time slot cannot be accommodated or refunded
• Important: Please note that large bags, backpacks, and/or suitcases are not permitted in the Colosseum. Only very small bags are allowed. Please do not bring these items with you on the day of your tour as there are no cloakrooms at the Colosseum
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• The Colosseum portion of the tour will last approximately 1.5 hour,
• The Roman Forum & Palatine Hill part of the tour will also last approximately 1.5 hour.
• Please be advised that the Colosseum's capacity regulations and security may delay the tour departure
• This could also influence the smooth running of the tour especially on national holidays and events.
• Near public transportation
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• If you arrive late for the meeting time, it will not be possible to join the group or reschedule, unless you pay for the activity again. As per "No Show" rules you will not be entitled to a refund.
• Most travelers can participate
• Pets are not allowed inside the venue
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 24 travelers

Cancellation policy

From 81. 85  usd.

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Colosseum Belvedere Tour

from €349.00 EUR Duration: 75 Minutes  Organized by: The Ultimate Italy BOOK NOW

Embark on a journey through time with our unparalleled VIP Private Tour of the Colosseum’s Belvedere (terraces of the 3rd, 4th and 5th levels) . This exclusive experience offers you the unique opportunity to explore one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks away from the bustling crowds. With our special skip-the-line access, you and a select few will be whisked away to the very pinnacle of the Colosseum, ensuring an intimate and unforgettable exploration of this ancient marvel.

Skip the Queue and Elevate Your Experience

Upon your arrival, you’ll bypass the long lines and make your entrance through a special back door reserved for VIPs. This alone sets the tone for the extraordinary adventure that awaits. Once inside, a state-of-the-art panoramic elevator will transport you to the top tiers of the Colosseum , a privilege enjoyed by a very limited number of visitors. From this vantage point, the Colosseum unfolds in all its historic grandeur. You’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views that encompass the entire arena, offering a unique perspective on where the gladiators once clashed in epic battles. It’s an opportunity to capture incredible photographs without the interference of large crowds, allowing you to savor the moment in peace.

Our tour doesn’t stop at the Colosseum. After soaking in the views, you’ll have the chance to wander through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill at your leisure. These sites are steeped in history and offer a glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Romans. It’s a self-guided exploration that complements the Colosseum tour perfectly, offering a well-rounded experience of Rome’s archaeological treasures.

Tailored for the Discerning Traveler

• Beat the Crowds : Enjoy fast-track entry through the Colosseum’s VIP back door, avoiding the queues and starting your tour immediately.
• Small Group Intimacy : With a maximum of 7 guests , our tour ensures a personalized experience, fostering a deeper connection with the site and its stories.
• 360-Degree Panorama : Marvel at the Colosseum from the top, with unrestricted views that offer a comprehensive look at this architectural wonder.
• Freedom to Explore : After your Colosseum visit, take your time discovering the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, diving deeper into Rome’s ancient history.

This VIP tour is not just about seeing the Colosseum; it’s about experiencing it. Feel the echoes of history as you stand where gladiators once stood, overlooking the arena. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the majesty of what was once the heart of entertainment in ancient Rome.

Imagine strolling through the Forum and Palatine Hill at your own pace, exploring the ruins and remnants of ancient life. This is a journey that goes beyond the typical tourist experience, offering insights into the glory of Rome that few get to see.

Reserve Your Place on This Exclusive Tour

Places on our VIP Private Tour of the Colosseum are highly sought after and limited to ensure the quality of the experience. To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking well in advance. This is more than just a tour; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of one of the world’s most famous landmarks.

Join us for an unforgettable journey through time, where history comes alive, and the majesty of ancient Rome is revealed in all its glory. This VIP tour of the Colosseum is an exclusive adventure that promises not just to show you Rome but to transport you back to its zenith.

• Exclusive skip-the-line Colosseum entry ticket
• Expert tour guide exclusively for the Colosseum portion
• Personal headsets to ensure you catch every word of the guide’s narration
• Entry tickets to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for a self-guided visit
• Food and beverages
• Transportation to and from the tour
• Guided tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Entry to the Colosseum Undergound Passages .

from €48.60 EUR Duration: 3 Hours  Organized by: Gray Line I Love Rome

• Tel: +39 351 730 0834

Colosseum & Belvedere plus Ancient Rome

About your tour

Let us take you on an unforgettable tour of the Colosseum, with access to areas inaccessible to the public for 40 years, taking you to the very top of this astonishing monument.

You will be given the opportunity to venture into the heart of the Colosseum and to ascend from the 3rd to the 4th level where lower middle class merchants were seated, and onto the 42 meter high summit of the 5th level where the lower class (plebs) were seated, with a spectacular view of the Eternal City. The tour also includes a walk through the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum .

By choosing our VIP Tour , you will experience a private tour of the Palatine Hill & Roman Forum. You will then join the rest of the party for a tour of the Colosseum in a group of up to 24 people. Enjoy Exclusive Access with one of our friendly mother tongue guides, as our group will be the only one allowed into the upper levels!

Top tour highlights

Highlight 1

Arena Floor

Once comprised of a wooden floor covered by sand, the Arena Floor was where gladiators fought against beasts or other gladiators, and sat above the dungeons where the animals were kept, and gladiators waited for the fights to begin.

Highlight 2

The Upper Rings of the Colosseum is where peasants and the lower class were spectators of the gruesome games that took place.

Highlight 3

Arch of Constantine

Constructed to commemorate the victory of Emperor Constantine over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge , the Arch of Constantine was erected in 315 AD located between the Colosseum and Palatine Hill .

Highlight 4

Palatine Hill

The Palatine Hill was one of the most important neighborhoods of Ancient Rome, functioning as the commercial, political and religious centre of the city. Of the Seven Hills of Rome , the Palatine hill was most central and stands 40 meters tall above the Roman Forum .

Highlight 5

Arch of Titus

The Arch of Titus was constructed under Emperor Domitian in 82 AD to commemorate Titus's victories, and is situated just to the south east of the Roman Forum.

Highlight 6

The Roman Forum

Containing the ruins of ancient government buildings, the Roman Form dates back to the 7th century BC and was developed to become the social, political and commercial hub of the Roman Empire.

Highlight 7

Temple of Caesar

Inaugurated on 18th August, 29 BC, the Temple of Cesar is an ancient structure built on the same area of the Roman Forum where Julius Ceasar was cremated.

Available Days

Mon / Tue / Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat / Sun

Times vary*

Meeting Point

Hotel Pick Up Included

PRESS COMMENTS

...we made our way to the Colosseum office of Italy With Us – an Irish tour company specialising in providing access to areas of important landmarks which are not usually open to the public. Our guide, Fabio, was enthusiastic and knowledgeable with a great knack for a Horrible Histories style of delivery which helped bring the past to life"

18th October 2023

COLOSSEUM REGULATIONS

• Full Names of all participants wishing to take part must be provided to Italy With Us prior to your tour.
• Names provided must match your photo IDs , which are required to enter the Colosseum. Only Passports, National ID cards and Drivers Licences accepted.
• Italy With Us will contact you after your booking to collect the names of the participants in your group.
• *Times and dates subject to change. In the event of this occurrence, we will allocate the closest available timeslot to your original booking and confirm with you by email. A full refund will be offered if it is not possible for you to attend the new timeslot.
• In the event of your tour being cancelled due to adverse weather conditions, you will be invited to attend the next available timeslot or offered a partial refund.
• Due to security procedures, when entering the Colosseum you may experience unexpected queues and baggage inspections.
• Under 25 / 18 concession prices only valid with EU proof of age.
• There is no wheelchair access on this tour due to ancient areas with limited accessibility.

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Colosseum Tours

Choose the best Colosseum guided tour

Colosseum and Roman Forum guided tour

500+ reviews

Travel back in time to the era of Roman Emperors and gladiator games with a guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Uncover the mysteries behind the world’s largest amphitheater and stroll through the political and commercial heart of Ancient Rome with the help of an expert guide.

• Priority access to the Colosseum and Roman Forum
• Live guide in English, French, Italian and Spanish
• Optional headsets

Best price:

Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill guided tour

20,000+ reviews

Discover the Colosseum, Rome’s most emblematic symbol, along with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill on a guided group tour. With the help of an expert guide by your side, you will explore all major monuments, palaces and other historical highlights in the archeological park.

• Priority tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Live guide in English

Colosseum with Arena and Underground guided tour

800+ 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.

• Access to Colosseum Arena and Underground areas

Colosseum with Arena guided tour by night

300+ reviews

Experience the Eternal City like never before with an evening guided tour of the Colosseum. Under the atmospheric moonlight, you can take in a breathtaking view of Rome from the ancient amphitheater’s stands and explore its legendary arena. Your guided visit also includes a stroll through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

• Evening access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Access to the Colosseum Arena (optional access to Underground areas)

Rome Combo: Vatican City & Colosseum guided tour

11,000+ reviews

Visit two of Rome's most iconic landmarks on an unforgettable walking tour: the Colosseum and the Vatican. Walk in the footsteps of the legendary gladiators who entertained emperors and the people of Rome in the world’s greatest arena. Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning art of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, in the heart of the Catholic Church.

• Priority access to the Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill
• Skip the line entrance to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
• English-speaking guide

Colosseum tours explained

Guided colosseum, palatine hill and roman forum tours.

Take a step back in time and visit three of the most important and impressive ruins from ancient Rome with an expert guide by your side. Guided tours typically cover the Colosseum, as well as the major archeological sites and attractions at Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum . On your 3-hour tour, you will learn about life, death, entertainment in antiquity, as well as the politics and founding myths of the Eternal City.

Colosseum Arena and Underground tours

Skip the long lines to the Colosseum and explore its arena and underground areas, with a professional guide revealing everything there is to know about Rome’s iconic amphitheater. See where gladiators fought and entertained, navigate through the labyrinthine underground tiers and then visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. These 3-hour tours offer an unrivaled and comprehensive experience at the world’s greatest arena.

Colosseum by Night tours

For an even more intimate and uniquely atmospheric experience at the Colosseum, you can plan an evening visit. With these tickets in hand and the help of an experienced guide, you will get to explore the Colosseum, including the maze-like underground areas and the arena. Colosseum by Night tours are packaged with a live guide (in English or Italian) and last about 1.5 hours.

Belvedere tours

Experience the Belvedere, the Colosseum's upper tiers, where ancient Roman spectators once marveled at intense gladiator battles unfold in the area, on an exclusive guided tour. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views and accompanied by expert guides, delve into the lives of gladiators, the amphitheater’s architectural and engineering feats, as well as the enthralling tales behind this iconic symbol of ancient Rome.

Private Colosseum tours

Avoid the crowds and enjoy an intimate experience at the Eternal City’s iconic landmark with a guided private tour . Dive into the rich history and legendary stories of the Colosseum, from the underground passages to the top tier and get a personalized view of the epic world of gladiators and emperors. These small-group tours offer a unique experience of this ancient wonder, catering to your interests and desires.

Colosseum Combo tours

Make the most of your time in Rome with a combination tour to the Colosseum and beyond. Explore the iconic amphitheater and its fascinating history, then discover the treasures of the Vatican Museums or the beauty of the Borghese Gallery. Expert guides will walk you through each attraction, providing insights into their historical and cultural significance. Combination tours offer an unforgettable journey through the Eternal City’s history and art.

Plan your visit

Opening hours

29th October to 28th February: 9 AM to 4:30 PM

1st to 25th March: 9 AM to 5:30 PM

26th March to 31st August: 9 to 7:15 PM

1st to 30th September: 9 AM to 7 PM

1st to 28th October: 9 AM to 6:30 PM

Last admissions are one hour before closing time.

Visit duration

It usually takes about an hour for individual visitors to visit the main Colosseum area, while guided tours can last 1.5 to 2 hours. Exploring Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, which are in the same archeological area, can easily add another hour to a visit.

The Colosseum is located in the city center of Rome, to the east of the Roman Forum and between the Palatine and Esquiline Hills. It is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and the metro, and is within close distance from many other famous landmarks in the city, such the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. Surrounding the grand amphitheater is the Monti neighborhood, with its quaint streets, cozy cafés and charming boutique shops.

Google maps directions

There are three entrances to the Colosseum, two on the western side of the amphitheater and one on the opposite end. On the western side and facing the Arch of Constantine is the 'Sperone Valadier' main entrance for individual visitors, groups and people with disabilities, while the 'Stern' entrance on the eastern side is typically reserved for school groups.

As with all monuments and tourist attractions in Rome, there are toilets inside the Colosseum, which are located to the left of the ticket booths, as soon as you enter from the main entrance.

Inside there are also toilets and lifts for people with disabilities, baby-changing facilities, fountains to fill your water bottles, vending machines, benches to rest and a gift shop.

Special events, such as art exhibitions, moon-lit guided tours, book presentations and workshops, are often hosted in the Colosseum archeological park, shedding light on the grand amphitheater’s rich history and the restoration work being carried out. Depending on the nature and timing of these events, access to them may be included with your Colosseum tickets, at no extra charge. For further details, consult the official website’s events page .

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are no cafés or designated dining areas inside the Colosseum. You can, however, take your own food and snacks with you and there are fountains to fill your water bottles.

Should you prefer to grab a bite before or after your visit, there are many places to eat in the areas around the Colosseum.

In the restaurants you can savor many traditional Italian pasta dishes, such as cacio e pepe, alla Gricia, and alla Carbonara, as well as meat and fish classics, like Saltimbocca alla Romana, Coda alla Vaccinara and Filetti di Baccalà.

There are also many vegetarian and vegan options, such as Carciofi alla Giudìa and alla Romana, Cicoria ripassata and Fiori di Zucca.

If you are on the go, you can always try the time-tested classics of pizza al taglio and sandwiches, while traditional Roman desserts include crostata ricotta e visciole and maritozzi that can be found in most pasticceria and bakeries.

As it is centrally located in Rome, the Colosseum is a convenient starting point to visit many other of the city’s iconic monuments, landmarks and attractions. These can easily be accessed on foot or by using the city’s public transportation system (including buses and the metro).

The Arch of Constantine, just outside of the Colosseum, was built in the early 4th century to commemorate Constantine the Great's victory over his predecessor, Maxentius.

To the west of the Colosseum is Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s Seven Hills, with lush gardens, archeological areas and a panoramic view of the city. The Roman Forum, also nearby, is an impressive open-air museum with ruins of ancient temples, public buildings and markets. Colosseum tickets typically include access to both sites.

Further away, you can also visit Capitoline Hill, another one of Rome’s Seven Hills, along with its museum of ancient art and artifacts, including the famous statue of the twin brothers who founded Rome, Romulus and Remus. The emblematic Baroque-styled Trevi Fountain is also a very popular itinerary stop on tours across the city.

FAQs and tips

Read more about the colosseum.

The Complete Colosseum: Private Tour with Underground, Arena & Belvedere

• Headsets for groups of 6 or more
• Full tour from an expert guide
• Skip-the-line admission
• Entry/Admission - Roman Forum
• Entry/Admission - Palatine Hill
• Entry/Admission - Colosseum
• Entry/Admission - Rome
• Entry/Admission - Via Sacra
• Entry/Admission - Tempio di Vesta
• Entry/Admission - Basilica Aemilia
• Entry/Admission - Tempio di Antonino e Faustina
• Guaranteed to skip the lines
• Hotel pick-up and return
• Food and drink
• Entry/Admission - Curia Julia
• Entry/Admission - Arco di Tito
• Largo Gaetana Agnesi, L.go Gaetana Agnesi, 00184 Roma RM, Italy Under the M sign at the exit of the subway station "Colosseo" - upper level
• Hotel pick-up is available for additional charge. Please remember to mention the name of your hotel if you wish to have a hotel pick up.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• You must have a valid photo ID to enter the Colosseum (Driver License, Passport or State ID all work.) You will be asked to also provide your name, last name and date of birth.
• Colosseum and Roman Forum are ancient sites and not wheelchair friendly.
• Strollers are allowed but not recommended; children must be carried by an adult or be able to walk for most of the tour
• There is no scheduled break, but it will be possible to stop for restrooms along the path.
• Large backpacks, camping bags, bulky bags, and luggage/trolleys are not allowed; medium and small backpacks can be shouldered and must be checked opened and visually inspected by security.
• Group size limited to 24 people in the Colosseum and just your party in the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill
• Wear comfortable shoes; bring hat and sunscreen. Please note sprays and are not allowed in the Colosseum as well as perfumes, sun lotions, etc
• Infant price applies with the minimum of one adult
• Unless requested differently in advance, this tour will operate in English.
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Please note that the Colosseum Administration has the power to close the Colosseum or parts of it, with or without notice, for events, strikes, heavy rain or any other reason. In the case of this occurring, the supplier will offer an alternative itinerary and a partial refund.
• • Visitors must pass through metal detectors at the security check point. Liquids/sprays are prohibited from entering, as well as knives and weapons of self-defence.
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• You'll start at Largo Gaetana Agnesi Or, you can also get picked up See departure details
• 1 Roman Forum Stop: 50 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Palatine Hill Stop: 50 minutes - Admission included See details
• 3 Colosseum Stop: 70 minutes - Admission included See details
• 4 Arch of Constantine Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 5 Curia Julia Stop: 5 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 6 Septimius Severus Arch Stop: 5 minutes - Admission included See details
• 7 Arco di Tito Stop: 5 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 8 Via Sacra Stop: 5 minutes - Admission included See details
• 9 Tempio di Vesta Stop: 5 minutes - Admission included See details
• 10 Basilica Aemilia Stop: 5 minutes - Admission included See details

• MuscatDP 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Outstanding tour with Roma Experience Elisa was an outstanding guide with her incredible in-depth knowledge and wonderful enthusiasm. It was a joy to spend time in her company and learn from her. I must say every aspect of the tour was highly professional and well organized. Indeed, Elisa exceeded all our expectations. We will most definitely be booking another Roma Experience tour for our next visit. We’ve already recommended to friends and family. Read more Written March 11, 2024
• kc4228 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best private guides in Italy! The absolute best private guide company in Italy that I have experienced. Incredibly knowledgeable guides that cater to your preferences and interests, saving you valuable time in museums and monuments in which you could otherwise get lost. They were also able to secure coveted tickets with limits at the last minute for us. We are so grateful to Elisa and her team for creating a truly memorable trip for us! Read more Written December 31, 2023
• 433kimberlyt 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unparalleled Tours - The BEST Thing You'll Do in Italy Elisa is beyond phenomenal. I’ve had the pleasure of touring the Vatican and Roman Forum with her twice (once in 2017 and again this fall). On each tour, I’ve looked around to other people near me, wearing head sets and walking in groups, and have whispered to my husband, “We are having the absolute best experience here.” The depth of Elisa’s tours and her incredible knowledge are simply unparalleled. Touring the Roman Forum with Elisa – a place she used to work!!! – is, hands-down, the best tour experience I’ve had anywhere in the world. The care she puts into her work is evident—she is passionate about what she does, and wants to share her passion for these remarkable places with you. And be sure to ask her for restaurant recommendations! She pointed us in the direction of the best meals we enjoyed in Italy—and not just in Rome! She gave us recommendations for Venice and Florence, too. AND she coordinated a last-minute, ultra-luxe, private wine tour in Chianti for my group, led by one of her brilliant tour guides (Martina). My traveling companions and I will remember these experiences forever. Do yourself a favor and book literally anything with Elisa. It’ll be the best thing you do in Italy. Read more Written November 28, 2023
• 491jayc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The Best Private Tour Guide in Italy!!! We cannot say enough nice things about Elisa, our private tour guide for the Vatican and the Colosseum. She is knowledgeable, friendly, and simply the best at her craft. We learned so much and there wasn't a single dumb question Elisa wouldn't answer. If you're thinking about touring these beautiful landmarks, we 100% recommend you consider Elisa with Roma Experience Tours. Read more Written November 9, 2023
• Suezqtg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best tour of Colosseum and Forum! Amazing tour with Elisa. Well worth it, especially if you love history and/or archeology. Elisa is highly educated, knowledgable, as well as engrossing, entertaining and an absolute joy to learn from and be led by. We were able to go deep into the colosseum, into places very few will ever see. We were also able to make adjustments as we went along, based on what we were most interested in seeing and learning about. It was great passing by the masses of tourists and heading into spaces that had no crowds, seeing things few get to see. I am so happy we did this tour. You will be too! Read more Written October 3, 2023
• kristinwmi 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Education of Colosseum Our guide was amazing! There is a lot of information. A lot of walking. (Wear good shoes). If you love archeology you will be in heaven. For those who are not that into it…it might be a bit too long of a tour. Read more Written August 15, 2023
• luxuryw2023 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Book him before he is full! Amazing… What an amazing couple of hours spent touring the highlights of Rome. Our tour guide LUCA is one of a kind. Passionate, funny, knowledgeable, kind. His passion for the history of Rome was infectious as was his knowledge of the history of our language and the politics of the day. Truely an inspiring experience. When trying to be funny I noted that our great actor Russell Crowe (yes a kiwi we know) had made the Colosseum famous through the movie Gladiator, he pulled out his phone and showed us a picture. “Oh you mean my friend Russell” he quipped. Of course the great actor would have chosen LUCA when he returned to the site of that epic movie in 2022 to get a real sense of the drama and majesty of that place. Well done and thank you, for the enduring memories. Read more Written May 16, 2023
• John_curiosity 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Architecture, history, politics, and the extravagance and bad behavior of emperors! 5 stars! Elisa's knowledge passion for history is clear, and she is a former archeologist. If you're going to spend 3-4 hours together, it may as well be fun too! She loves questions, and weaves together the story of the buildings, the politics, the people, and geography together so well. She can cover the standard Q&A of course, but she also was able to discuss the Roman society, the conquest of Egypt, Cleopatra, the extravagance of the emperors, if Nero really did fiddle while Rome burnt, and why the emperors usually didn't survive too long. Read more Written March 9, 2023
• allyglee 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 3 Hour express tour with Luca of the colosseum and Sistine Chapel. He is an amazing guide and very knowledgeable! 3 hours express tour was perfect for us. Luca our guide was super fun and very knowledgeable. He went out of his way to make the tour very special and personal. As my daughter Alex says “ He is the best guide ever”! And we have done many guides around the world. I Highly recommend this company. Elisa is the owner. She is very organized and wonderful as well. Read more Written March 7, 2023
• 461tiffanya 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An unforgettable experience with many fascinating stories. Elisa opened our eyes to the history of Ancient Rome. She is an expert in her field and passionate about the history she shared. With her depth of knowledge, she paired so many stories with the sites we visited. Elisa tailored the tour to our 10 and 15 year old children and managed to keep us all engaged and fascinated. We have toured many cities with numerous guides over the years and Roma Experience is the absolute best! Read more Written February 26, 2023
• Scott R 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles “Don’t do anything in Italy without speaking to Elisa first!” We travelled to Rome in June of 2022 and were given Elisa’s contact information from a friend who said we should not see anything in Italy without speaking with her first. Elisa’s knowledge is extensive and unparalleled. Her presentation style is engaging, and her access is unprecedented. Not only did we get behind the ropes at The Vatican, but she also arranged other tours at incredible venues that no one else was able to. We learned that Elisa’s contacts, allow her access to unique and exclusive experiences that thankfully she is happy to share. However, access is only part of the story here. It is Elisa’s extraordinary breadth of knowledge and presentation style allowed us to learn something new and important at every turn. As a family who is lucky enough to travel and utilize great tour guide, Elisa stands apart. In addition to the above she is warm, funny, kind, and was able to keep all 7 of us (Ages from 20-60) engaged. Like our friend said originally: “Don’t do anything without speaking in Italy without speaking to Elisa first.” Read more Written January 1, 2023
• 992richl 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Superb knowledge and great customer service at the Vatican My guide, Elisa, was outstanding. She knows her ‘stuff’. Her background in archaeology and academia is excellent and allows her to answer questions quickly (and I had lots of them). I like the way she paced the tour to my needs. Also, her presentation skills were multi-faceted (I especially liked seeing a explanatory video or picture on her iPad. I will be back to Rome next Spring and Elisa is the only guide I will use. Read more Written November 8, 2022
• cathybN6044VN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous tailor made Caravaggio tour we are still dreaming about! This was a once in a lifetime experience that far exceeded our expectations! Elisa from Roma Experience put together a bespoke tour for us based on a few thoughts I had. She made it come alive in just a matter of a few days. My goal was to see as many Caravaggio paintings in Rome as possible over the course of 4-5 days, as a surprise gift for my partner who's favorite painter is Caravaggio. Elisa put together a wonderful itinerary including all the major Caravaggio paintings in Rome (we saw 21 in total over 4 half days, two of which are in private collections). In addition, we toured the Restoration Lab that has restored a Caravaggio painting and learned all about the process of restoration including the work that was done on the Caravaggio. We even saw the apartment Caravaggio lived in. Our guide, Luca, was superb, an extremely knowledgeable art historian, who knew not only everything about Caravaggio but also the other important painters at the time and was able to connect art discussion to history and culture. We learned so much and looked forward to being with Luca each day. We really cannot say enough about this special tour and encourage any Caravaggio fan to skip the prepackaged tours and talk to Elisa about a tour designed with your goals in mind, you will NOT be disappointed. Elisa is extremely responsive, resourceful and knowledgeable. She will make your Rome dream come true! She cares so much about what she is doing. We miss our time in Rome with Luca and Caravaggio! Read more Written November 4, 2022
• EarleKvistad 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour of Colosseum Elisa is knowledgeable, well spoken and entertaining. She guided us on our tour of the colosseum and made it unforgettable. Will definitely use Roma Experience again and recommend to my friends. Read more Written October 9, 2022
• pegmoonstruck 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Five star private tour of the Colosseum We toured with Alesia and she was excellent! Her background in archeology and her knowledge of Rome and the history were invaluable. We were on a private tour just the two of us experiencing the Colosseum in a sea of other tours, but she made us feel like we were the only ones there. Skip the line, getting us to the perfect vantage points all the while imparting all her knowledge and insights into the spectacular venue. She's an amazing guide and we can't recommend her highly enough! Read more Written October 1, 2022

More to explore in Rome

The Complete Colosseum: Private Tour with Underground, Arena & Belvedere provided by Roma Experience Tours

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Self-Guided Colosseum Tour

If you prefer to tour the Colosseum on your Maybe you have seen the prices of guided walking tours

This post is an overview of the various tours of the Colosseum in Rome available to you, including our free, self-guided tour.

We offer guided walking tours through Rome since 2012, including Colosseum Tours.

So, we know a thing or two about the Colosseum.

We even have a post that explains the different ticket options and ways that you could visit.

And just below, you could watch this 1-hour guided virtual tour of the Colosseum including the Underground.

• Self-Guided Tour
• Small-Group Guided Tours
• Restricted Areas
• Virtual Reality Tours
• Nighttime Tours
• Visit On Your Own

SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF THE COLOSSEUM

This tour of the historic Colosseum in Rome will cover some of the most notable things to see and experience at the landmark.

Our self-guided service is intended as a companion to the Rick Steves free audio tour or can be used to research what you will see here.

This tour will include information about both the exterior and interior of the Colosseum, so you’ll need a ticket in order to enjoy the full experience. 

Please check our post covering how to get Colosseum tickets for more details.

1. The Colosseum

Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, this structure is one of the seven wonders of the world, and it is arguably one of the most photographed and well-known locations globally as well.

The Colosseum was constructed between the years of AD 72 - AD 80. 

The outer wall required over 100,000 cubic metres of travertine limestone, and except for a small area on one side of the building, this exterior wall no longer exists.

During the height of its popularity, author Juvenal said of Rome that “the people are only anxious for two things: bread and circuses.”

We’ll be covering the history of this arena in greater detail later in this tour, including details about some of the events that were held here -- and of course the gladiator games!

2. North Side Exterior

The remaining exterior wall is easy to point out because of the triangular wedges which have been placed to keep it from falling. 

These wedges are so well crafted that they almost look like they have always been there.

You’ll get a much better look at them once you make your way to the entrance of the Colosseum. 

For now, from the northernmost point, you’ll be getting a view of the last remains of the outer wall of this landmark.

On the southern side, almost all of the outer walls deteriorated, and the remaining walls were part of the interior of the Colosseum.

The original outer wall that you are now looking at is said to have needed over 100,000 cubic metres of travertine stone, held together by around 300 tons of iron clamps.

From here you’ll be able to see 3 stories of arcades with windows placed at regular intervals. Above the three floors lies the attic, where the awning (or retractable roof) was located.

The second and third-floor arcades had framed statues that most likely honored divine and mythological figures from ancient times.

3. Former Site of the Statue of Colossus

So where did the Colosseum get its name? 

It came from a bronze statue called the Colossus of Nero which was created and placed outside the Domus Aurea, the structure which stood here before the amphitheater.

The Colossus of Nero was around 30 metres (100 feet) tall, which made it almost as tall as the Statue of Liberty.

Over time, thanks to its proximity to the statue, the Flavian Amphitheatre became known simply as the Colosseum. 

Sadly, the statue no longer stands here, and, likely, it hasn’t been in the area since at least the 7th century. 

Historians believe that the Colossus was either torn down during the Sack of Rome in 410, or it may have fallen in an earthquake during the 5th century.

4. Arch of Constantine

Located halfway between the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, this triumphal arch was dedicated to Constantine the Great to commemorate his victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD.

At 21 metres high and almost 26 metres deep, this is the largest Roman triumphal arch in the city. 

Although it was initially dedicated to Constantine, it features decorations and statues from earlier triumphal arches that had been built for Hadrian, Trajan, and Marcus Aurelius.

The road underneath is known as the Via triumphalis, and it is the route that would be taken by generals who were returning to Rome after a triumphant battle.

The original route began at Campus Martius, went through the Circus Maximus, around Palatine Hill, to the Roman Forum, and onto the Capitoline Hill.

5. South Side Exterior

If you look to your left, you should be able to see the wedges holding up the remaining outer wall of the Colosseum.

But, over time the entire southern end of this exterior has deteriorated from exposure.

The walls you’ll be able to see from here were once the interior walls of the Colosseum. 

Since those walls have fallen and exposed the interior, these are technically now the exterior walls of the landmark.

Much of the damage to the southern side was caused by a large earthquake in 1349.

Much of the fallen stone was reused in churches, palaces, and other important locations throughout Rome.

6. Entrance to the Colosseum

Entering this historic site today isn’t quite the same as it was centuries ago.

But, if you need help getting tickets and learning about how to get inside quickly, make sure to read our post on how to get Colosseum tickets .

In the past, it was quite easy to get into this amphitheater and find your seat, as there are 80 entrances, 76 of which were designed for your average, ordinary spectator.

This is one similarity the Colosseum shares with modern-day arenas, as most of them use the same design concept to ensure guests get in and out as quickly as possible.

Each entrance, exit, and staircase were numbered, another design feature you’ll also find in modern venues.

The Northern main entrance was reserved specifically for the Roman Emperor. 

The other three axial entrances were used by elites. Today, only two of the original outer entrances remain XXIII and LIIII. 

Back during its heyday, tickets were simply shards of pottery with numbers etched into them which would direct guests to their seats.

The Colosseum was capable of holding between 50,000 - 80,000 guests, which is bigger than most modern stadiums and venues in the world.

7. Arena Floor

This famous arena may be known mostly for the gladiators who once fought here, but this ancient site was used for a lot of other games and events.

In addition to gladiatorial combat, the Colosseum was also capable of being flooded for naval battles, but this was rarely done because it caused significant damage to the structure.

Although animals were often used at the Colosseum, they were usually sent in to fight other hungry animals and it wasn’t as common to see them sent in to fight against gladiators.

Chariot races were another popular event held at the Colosseum, and the floor of the amphitheater was transformed into a race track for this activity.

The race tracks used for chariot racing were called circuses, and one of the most famous examples of a circus is just down the road from the Colosseum -- the Circus Maximus.

A chariot race typically involved 2-4 horse chariots which would run seven laps. This type of equestrian sport is now most easily comparable to thoroughbred horse racing.

Although it is commonly thought that the Colosseum once had a retractable roof, it should be noted that this didn’t look anything like the retractable roofs used in sports arenas today.

Instead, some awnings were rolled out on hot, sunny days which kept the audience protected from the heat. 

These awnings were only placed over the audience seating, so the Gladiators were never protected. 

Since these awnings could be taken in and rolled back out when necessary, you could say they were technically retractable, but there was no electricity or hydraulic energy used for this process.

Believe it or not, these awnings were something like sails, and that’s why they had a crew of sailors perform the task.

8. The Vestal Virgins’ Box

If you’re near the entrance, look to your right toward the centre of the first floor of seating. This is where you’ll find the Vestal Virgins’ Box.

As the name implies, this is where the Vestal Virgins sat, and they were the female priestesses of Ancient Rome.

These priestesses were important figures in Rome at the time, and many ceremonies were held in their honor. 

Many people felt that the success of Rome was dependent upon them, and this is just one reason why they were given a place of honor at the Colosseum.

9. The Arena Floor + Underground

Located at the centre of the Colosseum, this arena was about 83 x 48 metres in size.

The floor of the arena was originally wooden and covered with sand, covering the underground hypogeum area.

The hypogeum is now clearly visible, as most of the original wooden floor no longer exists.

As you can see, this was once a network of tunnels and cages where gladiators and animals were kept.

Another interesting aspect of the hypogeum was the 80 vertical shafts which were used to transport animals and other bits of scenery to the floor of the arena.

Elevators and pulleys were used to raise and lower the platforms in these vertical shafts, and there is evidence that they used hydraulic power to accomplish this feat.

Some tickets and tours provide access to this part of the Colosseum if you want a closer look. 

10. Gladiator Gate

The Colosseum is perhaps best known as the home of the gladiator games in Rome.

This is where slaves, criminals, and prisoners of war were once brought to fight for their lives.

Criminals sentenced to death would sometimes serve their sentence by being put into the ring without any weapons or means to defend themselves.

While many of the people who fought did so against their will, some volunteered to be gladiators and went to special schools to train and prepare for their fight.

When Gladiators entered the arena, they did so through the Gladiator Gate, a side entrance that was originally used only by the Gladiators. 

This gate can be seen directly across from the entrance of the Colosseum.

These battles typically took place on the arena floor, much of which no longer exists. 

Gladiators were kept in the hypogeum, and you can see a lot of this area from what remains of the floor of the arena.

11. Emperor’s Box

Located directly across from the Vestal Virgins’ Box, you’ll see the Emperor’s Box just above the arena floor. 

This is where the emperor would sit, and it was arguably the best seat in the house.

On either side of the Emperor’s Box, you’ll see the podium where the senatorial class was permitted to bring their chairs and enjoy an excellent view of the action.

If you look closely in these areas, you can still see some of the names of the 5th-century senators who sat here carved into the stone to reserve their spot.

Just think of them as season ticket holders!

12. Colosseum Museum

Located on the second level, this museum houses many notable works from the Colosseum, as well as exhibits that tell the story of this historic landmark.

Many of the items you’ll find here were pulled from excavations at the Colosseum, so they are original artifacts from the past.

Admission to this museum is included with your ticket to the Colosseum, so you don’t even have to worry about additional costs.

13.The Belvedere

If you have the right tickets and the area is open for public viewing, you might be able to see the uppermost floor of the Belvedere. 

You’ll need access to the lift which takes you to this floor to see it. You can find the lift on the northeastern end of the Colosseum.

There are tours of this area available for 9 euros, but the main reason to visit this level is for the incredible views of both the Colosseum and everything surrounding the structure. 

As you look around on the upper levels, you might wonder if anyone who once entered this area of the Colosseum for free appreciated the view from here.

The third floor of the Colosseum was once reserved for Rome’s middle class, whereas the fourth and fifth floors were designed for ordinary citizens, slaves, and women.

This is yet another way that modern arenas and stadiums tend to follow a similar pattern.

The middle floors are typically reserved for special seating and boxes for the wealthy, while the upper floors which are further from the action are essentially the “cheap seats.”

Although this area was designed for plebians, it did include shelter from the sun and rain, and tickets to this area were entirely free -- which is more than you can say for most sports venues today!

Sure, it’s further from the action at the center of the arena, but looking out at the rest of Rome, you can see quite a few notable sites from here such as the Temple of Venus & Rome and the Arch of Constantine.

In addition to these sites, you can also see attractions like the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. 

Admission to each of these locations is included with your ticket to the Colosseum.

While it wouldn’t have been the best seat in the house back when the Colosseum was in use, this is now one of the best places to take in the impressive beauty of the building in its entirety.

14. The Temple of Venus & Rome

This temple was built at the behest of emperor Hadrian on the remains of Domus Transitoria, which would later be replaced by Domus Aurea after a fire in 64 AD.

This is also where the Colossus of Nero first stood before it was moved to the amphitheater. 

Apollodorus, a respected Roman architect at the time, actually mocked the design of the temple, stating that the figures in the seated statues would hit their heads if they ever tried to stand up.

Shortly after making these comments he was not only banished from the city but eventually executed. The moral of the story is never to question the judgment of the emperor!

Although the temple would stand for several more centuries, it was eventually destroyed after an earthquake in the 9th century, at which time a church was built over the ruins.

Today, the temple is sometimes used by the Pope for public addresses, but admission is also included in your tickets to the Colosseum.

COLOSSEUM GUIDED TOURS

In this section, we cover tours that include general admission to the Colosseum, but not access to restricted areas such as the Underground and the Belvedere .

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

Private companies have a few advantages over the official tour. First, they tend to have smaller groups than the official tour, 12-24 people vs. 30+. 

Second, they have their special entrance , which is even better than skip-the-queue for general admission and official tours because it allows for immediate access to the security checkpoint.

Third, most of these tours are more time-efficient and visit both the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. 

Lastly, they usually focus on having fluent English speakers . 

We list a few companies below, but there are simply too many options available to list. Click here to see the full range of possibilities , which include virtual reality tours. 

We have listed the companies that get consistently great reviews on TripAdvisor, Google, and other platforms. 

Expect to pay between €42 to €67 per adult depending on what you choose, though some companies may offer a pay-what-you-wish tour .

In general, prices are determined by the number of participants per guide, with some groups capping off at 24 and others that limit their sizes to 12 or smaller. 

Prices include all fees to enter all 3 attractions.

There are less expensive options available, but they are not as well-reviewed or don't offer daily tours. 

There are simply too many options available to list. Click here to see the full range of possibilities . 

This company offers a range of tours in Rome including multiple trips to the Colosseum.

Their services at this landmark cover additional topics such as the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Arena floor.

In addition to these outings, they also have a VIP Underground tour you might enjoy.

Each tour is led by a professional guide and headsets are provided to every guest so that you can hear everything that is being said.

You'll also receive skip-the-line access at the Colosseum, making it easier to get inside and take a look around.

Colosseum Tour + Arena Floor  (Skip-the-Lines)

• €59 - Adult
• €54 - Child (2-14)
• Max of 25 guests
• Duration: 3 hours
• Availability: Daily

Colosseum Tour + Roman Forum & Palatine Hill  (Skip-the-Lines)

• €61 - Adults
• €57 - Child (2-14)

The Roman Guy

This is one of the most popular tour companies in Rome, and they provide a lot of different outings to some of the most notable landmarks and locations in the city – including the Colosseum!

If you’re looking for a guided tour of this historic structure, they currently offer a Colosseum Highlights Tour which also includes a visit to Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

With a max of 18 guests per tour, this is one of the smaller highlights tours available at this location. This outing also includes a skip-the-line entrance to the Colosseum.

• €68.95/Adults | €61.95/Youth | €39.95/Children
• Max of 10 guests

Purchase tickets or learn more here .

In addition to this tour, The Roman Guy also provides an even longer outing which includes privileged admission to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum as well as stops at Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona.

This tour also includes a skip-the-line tour of the Vatican Museums, allowing you to see yet another historically relevant and important attraction in Rome.

• €138.95/Adults | €114.95/Youth | €49.95/Children
• Max of 15 guests
• Duration: 7 hours

City Wonders 

City Wonders is one of the larger walking tour companies in Rome. This tour covers the Colosseum, the Forum, and Palatine Hill.

They also offer a tour of the Colosseum's Underground .

They are not the cheapest, but they are extremely well-reviewed, averaging 5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor with over 13,000 total reviews. 

They also offer 100% money back if you cancel within 24 hours or more in advance.

On their tour, you will be provided with headphones to ensure that you hear your live guide. They also offer tours in Spanish, French, Italian, and German, mostly on weekends.

• €59 adult | €54 child 2-14 | 1 and younger are free
• Maximum 25 participants
• daily tours in English at 9 am, 10 am, and 3 pm
• More details or to purchase .

Official Guided Tours

This is for the official Colosseum guided tour with an official live tour guide but does not include access to the Underground, Arena, or the Belvedere. 

Likewise, it does not visit the Forum nor Palatine Hill, however, your ticket includes entry to both.

The express tour is conducted in English, Italian, French, or Spanish and it lasts 45 minutes.

In addition to their 45-minute outing, you can also take a 3-hour tour which covers a bit more ground and gives you more time to see the landmark.

Express Colosseum Tour

• €23/Adults | €9/Children
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Hours: 9:30 am, 11 am, 12:15 am, 13:30 (1:30 pm), 14:45 (2:45 pm)

Extended Colosseum Tour

• €33/Adults | €17/Children
• Hours: 10 am
• Not currently available.

Each of these services includes admission to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for an entire day, so even if you can’t see everything during the tour, you can still go back in and spend some more time at these sites.

You can purchase these tours on the Colosseum’s official website . 

If you find their website too frustrating or they are sold out for the time that you want, you could also book it through Get Your Guide , but it’s typically €15 more per adult.

SELF-GUIDED AUDIO AND VISUAL TOURS

A self-guided tour is a reasonable option for experiencing the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Forum.

A big advantage of this option compared to a guided tour is that you can linger around inside the Colosseum for as long as you like, to enjoy the views, or to visit the public exhibits.

The disadvantages are you won't have quick access to the security line (unless you arrive early) and you won't have an expert tour guide around if you have questions.

This option also doesn't permit access to the Underground, Arena Floor, or Belvedere. Only guided tours take you there.

There is even a free audio tour from Rick Steves that we recommend, not just because it's a free, quality production, but because he also offers a free audio tour of the Forum (see below). 

YOU NEED A TICKET

Please note that if you choose to take a self-guided tour, then you will need a general admission ticket to enter any of the 3 sights (unless you have a Roma Card or Omnia Card , which grants free entry).

We have a post that explains getting tickets to enter the Colosseum on your own but here is a quick summary.

The cost for the official self-guided audio and visual tours is in addition to the general admission ticket but can now be purchased as one combined ticket.

Tickets are good for 2 days, but you can only enter each attraction once. Palatine Hill and the Forum are considered one attraction as is the Colosseum.

We recommend buying and printing out your ticket before you arrive, then you will have what is called skip-the-queue tickets. 

Without printed tickets, you will need to stand on a will-call line to pick up your tickets. This could take 30-60 minutes during the busy season.

Official Colosseum Audio Tour 

The official audio tour comes in many languages: Italian, English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Russian, Chinese, Portuguese, Arabic, Latin, LIS + ASL, and lasts 70 min. 

It costs €24 and includes the entry ticket and reservation fee. 

If you get frustrated with the main site  or if they are sold out, then you could buy your tickets here as well. It's an extra €6 compared to going through the official site. 

NOTE: If you have either the Roma Care or Omnia Card , then you should choose free entrance   + audio video  € 5,50 .

Official Colosseum Video Tour 

The visual guide is a rented iPhone unit in the following languages: Italian, English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Russian, Chinese, and Portuguese. It lasts for 50 min.

This ticket can only be purchased in advance on the official website .

NOTE: If you have either the Roma Care or Omnia Card , then you should choose free entrance   + video guide  € 6.00 .

Rick Steves

We recommend the well-produced, free audio guides from Rick Steves. You could download his app or you can listen to the audio on Itunes or any mp3 player. 

Rick Steves offers a free tour of the Forum and one of the Colosseum, as well as other locations throughout Rome, including the Vatican and St. Peters. 

The only missing tour is for Palatine Hill, but there you could use the official audio guide.  

• Rick Steves Audio Europe Italy   

NOTE:  You will need to purchase a general admission ticket if you choose this option.

UNDERGROUND, ARENA, AND BELVEDERE TOURS

There are some rooms and floors of the Colosseum that are typically off-limits to most visitors, but they are made available on special tours.

This section provides details about the restricted areas you can visit while taking a tour.

• Underground
• Arena Floor

COLOSSEUM UNDERGROUND TOURS

Access to the Colosseum’s underground is only possible on a guided tour. Spaces are limited and there is an additional cost for ticket holders. 

The underground consists of tunnels, cages, and jail cells where gladiators, prisoners, and exotic animals were kept hidden from the roaring crowd above.

Most guided tours also include a walk out onto the arena floor, which is also a privilege.

This is a must-do for history buffs .

Below, we list some of the options available to you, including night tours of the Underground. 

There are simply too many options available to list. Click here to see the full range of possibilities .

You can also find more details on our post covering Underground Colosseum tours.

Aside from their highlights tour, this company also provides a Colosseum Underground tour which includes admission to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Access to the underground sells out quickly, but The Roman Guy always gets admission thanks to their status as approved tour guides.

If you want an even closer look at the landmark, consider this tour of the Colosseum Underground.

• €124.95/Adults | €83.95/Youth | €34.95/Children
• Maximum of 24 guests.
• Duration: 3 ½ hours

Purchase tickets or learn more .

As mentioned above, City Wonders is a well-reviewed Rome tour company.

On their Underground tour, you will be provided with headphones to ensure that you hear your live guide. 

They also offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you cancel within 24 hours of the tour date. 

• €129 adult | €124 child 6-14 | 0-5 are free
• Daily tours in English 08:20, 09:00, 13:00, and other times by season.
• More information or to book .

Official Colosseum Underground Tour

If you want to save a few euros, there is also an official tour of the Colosseum underground which is much less expensive. Although this is a cheaper option, it’s only 1 ½ hours long, so it’s not quite as extensive as some of the other tours on this list.

These tours sell out fast, so it will be important to purchase your tickets at least 2-3 weeks ahead of time. 

If you’re trying to book this in the summer, you may even want to plan on getting tickets at least a month in advance.

In addition to the official Colosseum tour with underground access, there is also an option which includes admission to the Belvedere!

Each of these tours is available in English, Spanish, and Italian, while most private tour companies only offer their underground tours in English.

For more details or to purchase tickets, please read our post covering Colosseum Underground tours .

Arena Floor Access Tours

If you want to visit the floor of the Colosseum and see where Gladiators once fought for their lives against incredible odds, arena floor access is an absolute must.

Thankfully, there are several companies offering tours that include admission to this area of the Colosseum!

Depending on which type of tour you choose, you can expect to pay about €55-€65 for one of these services. Tours run for between 1-3 hours.

In addition to their tour which covers the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, this company also has a tour that includes access to the arena floor.

While you can purchase tickets with admission to this section of the structure, not all tours will take you here.

If you want to take a tour that features the floor of the arena, this is an excellent option.

Colosseum Tour + Arena Floor (Skip-the-Lines)

• €59 – Adult
• €54 – Child (2-14)

This company offers two different tours which include access to the arena floor of the Colosseum.

The first tour covers a variety of sites such as Julius Caesar’s Temple, the Eternal Flame, the Basilica of Antoninus & Faustina, and the Basilica of Maxentius & Constantine.

The second outing includes locations like the Domitian Stadium, the Arch of Titus, the Arch of Constantine, and the Senate House.

They also have a tour that provides access to the Belvedere which you can learn more about in our subsection covering tours of that area.

Arena Floor Colosseum Tour w/ Roman Forum

• €76.95/Adults | €64.95/Youth | €36.95/Children
• Max of 15 guests.
• Duration: 2 ½ hours

City Wonders

If you’re interested in visiting the arena floor, it’s worth noting that this tour company also offers a Colosseum tour which includes this attraction.

This tour isn’t quite as long as some of the outings offered by their competitors, but that may actually be a good thing if you’re short on time.

Guests will enjoy skip-the-line access as well as admission to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

• €79 – Adult
• €74 – Child
• Duration: 2 hours

Official Guided Tour + Arena Access

In addition to the standard guided tours available at the Colosseum, they also offer the option to see the arena floor while on a tour.

The only catch with this ticket option is that you need to have a tour guide to accompany you to purchase and make full use of admission.

Most of the guided tours that include arena access offer this ticket, to begin with, but if you have a tour guide who isn’t covering the cost of admission, this is what you’ll need to purchase.

• €34/Adults | €12/Children
• Duration: 1 hour
• Hours: 8:50 am - 15:00 (3 pm)

Guided Tours of the Belvedere

The Belvedere is the uppermost level of the Colosseum and has very restricted access. The only option is through an official guided tour.

• +€9 - adults
• +€7 - concession

Both of these tours are special tours that are limited in availability. 

Both tours last 60 minutes each. There is an additional €2 fee for an advanced reservation per tour. 

NOTE: The Belvedere is currently closed as of June 2022 for restoration work.

Although access to the Belvedere isn’t included on many tours, this company offers an extensive outing to the Colosseum which includes the typically restricted area.

In addition to visiting the Belvedere, you’ll also have the chance to see the Colosseum Underground area and the arena floor.

NOTE: This tour isn't currently available because the Belvedere is closed for restoration work.

• €139.95/Adults | €104.95/Youth | €48.95/Children
• Maximum of 25 guests.
• Duration: 4 hours
• Availability: Daily from Mar - Nov

Domus Aurea VR Experience

If you want to learn more about Domus Aurea, there is currently a tour of the Archaeological Restoration site which covers the subject and includes a virtual reality experience.

The VR headset they use is an Oculus Rift, and it is not recommended for people with epilepsy or severe eye conditions. 

It is suggested that you wear comfortable shoes and a jacket while on this tour, as the site has a lot of moisture to contend with.

Nighttime Colosseum Tours

In addition to all the services available during the day, there are also several Colosseum tours you can take after dark.

These outings often include additional attractions like the underground area and the arena floor.

Tickets range from €65 - €85 on average, and each tour lasts for approximately 2 ½ hours. Availability is typically limited and mostly offered during the weekend.

If you’re looking for other fun things to do after the sun goes down, check our post covering things to do in Rome at night .

This company also offers a night tour of the Colosseum and Underground as well as the Forum. This tour is only offered in English.

Seeing this landmark after the sun goes down is an entirely different experience, and it’s also a great way to avoid the large crowds that tend to come during the day.

• €99 adult | €94 child 2-14 | 1 and under are free
• Maximum 20 participants
• Various dates in the summer at 19:30 (7:30 pm)

There are many more night tour options .

On this VIP tour, you’ll visit the Colosseum after dark and see both the underground area and the Arena floor. 

In addition to visiting those sites, you’ll also see Teatro di Marcello, the Roman Forum, and Capitoline Hill.

This tour will be provided by a professional guide who will give all guests headsets so that they can hear everything being said.

• €84/Adults | €74/Children
• Availability: Limited

If you’d like to visit the Colosseum after dark, this company offers a VIP outing at night which includes admission to both the underground and arena floor.

This tour also includes a visit to Piazza Venezia, Trajan’s Market, the Roman Forum, Capitoline Hill, and more.

• €89.95/Adults | €62.95/Youth

RELATED POSTS:

• Baths of Caracalla
• Capitoline Museums
• Borghese Gallery
• Vatican Museums

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About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.