Colosseum with a guide

 Located in Piazza del Colosseum, the Colosseum is one of the most famous monuments in the Eternal City and the world. This is proven by more than 6 million people who visit it every year. Also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, this monument can seat more than 50,000 spectators, and the enormity of this monument is impressive to see in person. From the rich history and many exciting purposes to the attractive sites surrounding the monument, a Colosseum guided tour is worth it.

What know before going to the Colosseum?

There are not many rules that you must follow or know before visiting the Colosseum. However, we have some helpful tips for visiting this iconic monument. One thing to note is that you are not allowed to bring tripods, large luggage, and backpacks inside the Colosseum. Also, visitors are advised not to use the selfie sticks while touring the memorial. So keep that in mind.

We advise you to pack lightly as you will pass a metal detector on your way inside the museum. Also, bring the water bottle and put on a sun hat. Especially if you are visiting during the summer, there is no shade in the Colosseum, so you must be well prepared to battle the Roman heat.

Colosseum working hours

Although the Colosseum’s opening hours vary from month to month, the landmark is open almost every day of the year, except the January 1 and December 25. In addition, the Colosseum, archaeological sites, museums, and other government-run monuments have free admission every first Sunday of the month.

The opening hours of the Colosseum are:

• 08:30 AM – 4:30 PM: Until February 15
• 08:30 AM – 5:00 PM: From February 16 to March 15
• 08:30 AM – 5:30 PM: March 16 to last Saturday of March
• 08:30 AM – 7:15 PM: Last Sunday of March to August 31
• 08:30 AM – 7:00 PM: September 1 to September 30
• 08:30 AM – 6:30 PM: October 1 to the last Saturday of October

You can enter the site one hour before closing time. However, one hour is not enough to fully explore the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. So be sure to plan your Colosseum tour accordingly and make enough time to visit all the attractions around the Colosseum.

Best time to visit the Colosseum

In general, we recommend visiting the Colosseum in the off-season if possible. This is because fewer crowds visit the Colosseum during winter and fall. But any time of year you visit the Colosseum, we advise you to do so either as soon as the Colosseum opens or before closing time. If you arrive early you will be able to avoid all the crowds plus the weather will be more pleasant, especially during summer days. Another good time of the day to visit the Colosseum is before closing time.

Colosseum square floor tour

Book a floor tour of the Colosseum Arena online

As you enter the Arena Floor, you can venture out into one of the most relaxed restricted areas of the memorial not available to standard Colosseum ticket holders. You’ll also be able to skip the line and park on the floor of the reconstructed Colosseum Arena. Travel back in the time as your guide takes you to the theater’s grand opening and describes the trap doors and the species of wild animals that also contributed to the Colosseum’s popularity. Since tickets are limited and the area is restricted, you’ll enjoy standing on the floor of the Colosseum Arena with a few other visitors.

History of the Roman Colosseum

Visit Levels 1 and 2 of the Colosseum after the Arena Floor portion of the tour. You will also see where the emperors sit and learn about the rules of wrestling games for competitors and spectators. In the addition, your tour guide will point out interesting sites such as ancient graffiti and describe what happened to the Colosseum after the fall of the Roman Empire.

Guided Roman Forum Tour

The Colosseum Arena Floor tour includes a visit to the main sites of the Roman Forum and the ruins inside. This area is a Roman archaeological site that was also referred to as the “Old City.” This is because it was once the site of ancient Rome’s city center. You will relive ancient history as you walk the same routes that the famous Roman emperors and philosophers took.

Climb the Palatine Hill

Palatine Hill is also included in the Colosseum Arena Floor tour, and your guide will cover the main attractions. Besides great views of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill is also home to the Farnese Gardens. With ancient marbles scattered around, Palatine Hill is the perfect place to take in the beautiful surroundings of ancient Rome.