Colosseum Rome - the complete visitor guide
From the arena floor to the underground - your overview of Rome's most famous landmark.
The Colosseum - symbol of ancient Rome
The Colosseum, originally called the Flavian Amphitheatre, is located in the archaeological heart of Rome and is the largest amphitheater in the world. It was built in the 1st century AD at the behest of the emperors of the Flavian dynasty. The building got its common name from a colossal statue that once stood nearby.
For centuries, the amphitheater was used to stage spectacles with great appeal, including animal hunts and gladiator fights. It was capable of presenting astonishingly complex stage technology - and always remained a spectacle in its own right, an open yet clearly structured space for the Roman public. Over the course of time, the building changed its appearance and function several times.
To this day, the Colosseum is the symbol of Rome and is one of the most visited sights in the world. The visit connects seamlessly with the neighboring Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, which together form the Parco archeologico del Colosseo and are included in the same ticket.
What you can see in the Colosseum
The Colosseum can be explored on different levels. Which areas are accessible depends on the ticket selected - the standard ticket covers the first two levels, while the arena floor, underground and attic require a full experience ticket or a guided tour.
The two lower tiers with the surrounding galleries form the heart of every visit. From here, you have a sweeping view over the entire arena. The second tier houses the Museo Colosseo and temporary exhibitions.
The reconstructed arena floor where gladiators once fought. Those who enter it experience the Colosseum from the perspective of the center - with an impressive view up to the tiers. Only accessible with an Arena or Full Experience ticket.
The underground network of tunnels beneath the arena, which once housed animals and stage equipment. The underground is only accessible as part of a guided tour.
The top level with panoramic elevator offers an elevated panoramic view of the building and the surrounding ancient Rome. It can be reached via the Full-Experience Ticket Attic.
The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill belong to the same archaeological park and are included in every Colosseum ticket. If you would like to see the arena floor and underground, you will find the appropriate tickets and tours on the linked detail pages.
What tickets are available?
There are several types of ticket for the Colosseum, which differ mainly in terms of which areas they unlock. Each ticket automatically includes access to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. A complete overview with current prices and a comparison of providers can be found on the prices page.
Standard ticket
Access to the Colosseum on levels 1 and 2 as well as to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. The most popular option for a first visit.
Full Experience - Arena
In addition to the standard scope, access to the arena floor. Valid for two consecutive days, including the SUPER sites in the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Full Experience - Underground & Arena
The most comprehensive access, including the hypogeum, which can only be entered as part of a guided tour. Ideal for anyone who wants to experience the Colosseum in all its depth.
Guided tour
A guided tour with a live guide combines priority access with expert explanation and is available in many languages. Variants range from the classic guided tour to the all-access tour with underground.
All tickets are personalized and are issued in the name of the visitor - a valid photo ID must be shown at the entrance. The official website releases tickets 30 days before the date of the visit. Third-party providers have their own fixed contingents and therefore often offer tickets before the official sales start and can still be booked even if the official website is sold out.
How to reach the Colosseum
The Colosseum is located in Piazza del Colosseo in the center of Rome and is easiest to reach by public transport. The surrounding area is a restricted traffic zone, which is why traveling by car is not recommended.
Metro
Line B, Colosseo stop, directly in front of the entrance. Also line C, Colosseo-Fori Imperiali stop.
Bus
Lines 51, 75, 81, 85, 87 and 118 stop in the immediate vicinity of the Colosseum.
Streetcar
Line 3 connects the Colosseum with other parts of Rome.
On foot
Easy to reach from the old town - a walk past the Roman Forum leads directly to the entrance.
Detailed information on the best time to visit, how to get there and how to plan your visit can be found on the tips page. The current seasonal opening times can be found on the opening times page.
Accessibility for all visitors
The Parco archeologico del Colosseo is designed for accessibility, even if the ancient site naturally imposes some restrictions. In the Colosseum, a marked path leads across large parts of the first level; elevators provide access to the entire second level for visitors with limited mobility.
Elevators
In the Colosseum, elevators provide access to the second level. In the Roman Forum and at the Palatine Hill there are further elevators and lifting platforms, for example at the Salara Vecchia entrance and at the Arch of Titus.
Additions
The three main entrances to the park are wheelchair accessible, as are the entrances for individual visitors and groups on the north side of the amphitheater.
Services
Eight public toilets, all accessible for visitors with limited mobility, as well as drinking fountains, rest areas and baby changing facilities are spread across the site.
Paths
Parts of the terrain, especially at the Palatine Hill, are uneven and partly uphill. Sturdy shoes are recommended, as there is a lot of historical paving.
The Colosseum - briefly explained
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