Colosseum

The basics

As the second most popular attraction in Italy after the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum hosts some 4 million annual visitors. This means that long lines are nearly inevitable without a skip-the-line tour.

Choose from a number of tours suited to any age or interest, such as an underground tour that heads beneath the arena floor to explore a network of passages. Small-group tours visit the third tier, while night tours offer an eerie experience and relief from the daytime heat. Consider group tours, self-guided audio tours, or private tours to gain an understanding of this well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater and its historical importance.

Things to know before you go

• It's best to purchase Colosseum tickets in advance to avoid long entry lines.

• The Colosseum is well-suited for families with kids.

• This is an open-air amphitheater, so bring a hat and sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes and attire.

• You may also see the Colosseum referred to as the Flavian Amphitheatre or the Coliseum.

• You'll be asked to provide your full name at the time of booking—it will be printed on your individual ticket. Be sure it matches the name on your ID or passport, which you'll need to present at the ticket office to enter the Colosseum.

How to get there

Alongside the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the Colosseum is in the center of Rome. It’s across the street from the Colosseo station on Line B of the city's underground metro system, which also stops at the Termini train station.

When to get there

Since the Colosseum is most crowded during the middle of the day, begin or end your Rome tour with a visit first thing in the morning or just before last entry (which is an hour before closing time) in the late afternoon. Alternatively, choose a night tour for a unique, less crowded experience. Summer is the most popular time of year to visit, while the site receives fewer crowds in November through February, aside from the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The Colosseum by the numbers

The Colosseum is the world's largest amphitheater, has 76 entrances, and measures 615 feet (189 meters) long by 510 feet (156 meters) wide. The total area of the stadium covers six acres (24,000 square meters), and its highest tier reaches 157 feet (48 meters). It took 10 years to build and hosted games and hunting sessions for more than four centuries.

What are the best tours of the Colosseum?

There are many tours available at the Colosseum for visitors. For those looking for unique experiences, private guided tours are available and provide insight into the engineering marvel that is this ancient monument. Group guided tours also offer an array of options, from standard tickets to night tours and underground access. Each tour offers something different.

Is it worth getting a guided tour of the Colosseum?

Yes, taking a guided tour of the Colosseum is definitely worth your time. Guided tours offer an immersive, in-depth experience that will bring the ancient site to life, telling the stories of the rulers, gladiators, and spectators who once walked across its floor. Audio aids or tour guides help bring it to life.

How much time do you need for the Colosseum?

You don’t need to spend all day at the Colosseum. If you’re short on time, a few hours should be more than enough. Plan to spend at least an hour and a half exploring the expanse of this enormous amphitheater. When visiting, give yourself some extra time for photos.

What day is best to visit the Colosseum?

The best day to go to the Colosseum is Tuesday. There are fewer people, so visits are easier and more relaxed. On Tuesdays, you’ll compete with fewer people for tickets for some activities within the Colosseum walls.

Do I need to prebook tickets for the Colosseum?

Yes. You should prebook tickets to visit the Colosseum. Because it is very popular and one of the most important historical buildings in Rome, the lines to get in can be long. To save time, it's best to book tickets online before you go so you can see more things faster.

What is the best way to see the Colosseum?

Take a guided tour. Learn about the history and importance of this amazing building from a knowledgeable guide. You can also learn about the special architecture, engineering, and construction methods that make it remarkable even after many years.

Ways to explore

As the second most popular attraction in Italy after the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum hosts some 4 million annual visitors. This means that booking tickets—or a tour that includes admission—in advance is a must. Choose from a number of tours suited to any age or interest, such as an underground tour that heads beneath the arena floor to explore a network of passages or night tours that offer relief from the daytime heat. Consider group tours, self-guided audio tours, or private tours to gain an understanding of this well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater and its historical importance.

Admission tickets to the Colosseum go on sale exactly 30 days in advance and generally sell out quickly. Book a Colosseum tour that includes admission to ensure access even when advance tickets are sold out online. Express tours of the Colosseum last about 90 minutes, while tours that also include visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill average around three hours.

Accessibility

There is a dedicated route for wheelchair users, including elevators and chairlifts. Three wheelchairs are available for visitors at the first-tier reception area.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, water bottle, camera

What to wear

Sun hat, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Large bags or backpacks, drones, smoking; graffiti of any kind is punishable by fines or imprisonment.

Amenities

Restrooms, audio guides, vending machines, gift shops

Address

Alongside the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the Colosseum is in the center of Rome and walkable from sights such as the Vittoriano and the Historic Center. It’s across the street from the underground metro Colosseo station and a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus tours.

Driving

The heavy traffic and lack of parking around the Colosseum make driving a stressful endeavor. Opt to take the metro or a taxi to reach the ancient site, or visit as part of a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city.

Public transportation

The Colosseo station on Line B of Rome’s metro is located just across the street from the Colosseum entrance; Line B connects to Line A at the Termini train station. City buses 51, 75, 81, 85, 87, and 118 also stop at the Colosseum, as does tram line 3.

Best times to visit

As one of the most visited sights in Rome, the Colosseum becomes very crowded during the busy midday hours. Aim to visit first thing in the morning or an hour before closing time to avoid the throngs.

Best days to visit

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are often quieter than the weekends and holidays. Avoid the first Sunday of the month, when the Colosseum is free to enter and is overrun with visitors.

Best months to visit

This open-air site is exposed to the elements, so avoid the extreme temperatures in winter and summer. Opt to visit in the spring and fall when the weather is clear but temperate.

Special events

The annual Via Crucis procession—which is held on the evening of Good Friday and led by the Pope—ends at the Colosseum and attracts thousands of spectators along the route. The city also celebrates its founding each year on April 21st with a costumed procession that passes by the Colosseum and Roman Forum.