Can You Visit the Colosseum in Rome?
Yes, absolutely! However, it is not free. There are numerous tours with audio guides, personal guided tours, and many combo tickets that can be worth it. Find out more under Tickets.
What Is the Best Way to Visit the Colosseum?
There are many tours and guided visits available. If you’re looking for a general overview, you can book the standard tour with an audio guide. This includes access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, but not the arena floor or the underground.
For a more detailed experience, there are guided tours with experienced guides that include the Colosseum (with arena floor and underground), Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. These tours are more expensive, last about 3 hours, and are ideal for those wanting to delve deeper into history.
For families with children, there are specific tours designed to make the Colosseum exciting and educational for kids. These are highly recommended if you want your children to have an engaging and fun experience.
How Long Does a Visit to the Colosseum Take?
For a self-guided tour with an audio guide, you should plan at least one hour for the Colosseum and another hour for the Roman Forum. However, how long you stay is up to you.
Guided tours usually last between 1.5 and 3 hours. We recommend setting aside at least half a day to explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, as there is plenty to see.
Where Is the Entrance to the Colosseum?
The Colosseum originally had 80 entrances. Today, there are 3 entrances available for visitors. The main entrance, Sperone Valadier, is near the Arch of Constantine. At the main entrance, there are separate queues for priority tickets and general tickets.
Is the Colosseum Accessible for People with Disabilities?
Yes, the Colosseum is mostly wheelchair accessible. However, the underground and the top floor are difficult to access with a wheelchair. There is an elevator to the middle floor for wheelchair users.
Visitors with a disability card can access the Colosseum for free. Tickets can also be booked online in advance.
Can You Buy Tickets for the Colosseum On-Site?
Not recommended. Colosseum tickets are time-specific, and you cannot deviate from the assigned time slot. If you buy tickets on-site, you’ll be assigned the next available time slot, which on busy days may be several hours later—or tickets may be completely sold out.
Can You Bring Bags or Backpacks?
Yes, small bags and standard backpacks are allowed. However, large backpacks are not permitted.
Can You Bring Water or Drinks?
Glass bottles are strictly prohibited. Plastic bottles must be emptied before entering the Colosseum. However, there are numerous fountains inside the Colosseum and Roman Forum where you can refill your water bottle.
What’s the Best Way to Get to the Colosseum?
We recommend using public transportation. Learn more under Getting to the Colosseum.