The Colosseum is a stunning structure that marvels visitors from all around the world. Located in Rome, this ancient amphitheater has centuries of history and culture embedded within its walls. If you want to get the most out of your visit, why not join one of the best Colosseum tours?
To help with your planning, I have rounded up 5 of the best Colosseum tours you should consider joining.
Each tour offers something unique such as exclusive access to special parts of the Colosseum, expert guides with vast knowledge about Roman history, and even Gladiator schooling so that you can experience what it was like in the days of Ancient Rome!
Read on for a detailed look at each tour option, group or private tour, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Where is the Colosseum?
The Colosseum is located in the central area of Rome, Italy, near the Roman Forum and the River Tiber. You can get to the Colosseum pretty easily from anywhere in Rome with the subway or by taxi.
It’s only about 4km or 15 minutes from the Vatican museums, so you can take the best Colosseum tour on this list on the same day.
Is the Colosseum Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, visiting the Colosseum is an absolute must-do when planning a travel itinerary to Italy. Its history and grandeur are incomparable and make it a unique site.
First built in 80 AD, the enormous structure hosted events like gladiator fights, mock sea battles, and animal hunts that drew thousands of people from all over the empire.
There’s no place else quite like it; you’ll be transported back in time as soon as you step in, and all the historical elements inside make it such a unique place to behold.
Why You Should Join a Colosseum Tour
Taking a Colosseum tour is one of the most exciting ways to experience Rome’s ancient history. It gives you an up-close look at one of the greatest accomplishments of Roman architecture and engineering.
Plus, guided tours provide additional insight into the Colosseum’s fascinating past, including gladiator battles and other grand spectacles that once took place inside the stadium.
There are even tours that will take you to the underground, visiting prison cells and intricate passageways.
Of course, you can get a ticket and visit the Colosseum without a guide, but the experience will be totally different and not as authentic.
What’s Included in a Colosseum Tour?
These best colosseum tours include a skip-the-line ticket and an expert that’ll tell you everything about the history and facts.
Some tours also offer a guided tour of the Colosseum’s underground, as well as the Roman Forum tour and Palatine Hill, located right around the corner.
Colosseum Opening Times
The colosseum is open every day from 08.30 am and the closure times are as follows:
- 08.30 am- 4.30 pm: from the last Saturday of October until February 15
- 08.30 am- 5.00 pm: from February 16th to March 15th
- 08.30 am – 5.30 pm: from March 16th to the last Saturday of March
- 08.30 am – 7.15 pm: from the last Sunday of March to August 31st
- 08.30 am – 7.00 pm: from September 1 to September 30th
- 08.30 am – 6.30 pm: from October 1 to the last Saturday of October
It’s worth noting that, when booking a tour online, you can choose the trip you’ll join. Some start at 10.00 am, others at 11.30, and some even take place in the afternoon, which is convenient.
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Top 5 Best Colosseum Tours in Rome
Are you planning a trip to the Eternal City? Few places say “Rome” quite like the Colosseum, and taking one of the tours is a must when visiting Rome.
From group tours with experienced guides to self-guided tour experiences and private tours, I’ve rounded up our top five favorite Colosseum tours so you make the most of your trip.
Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Entry Tickets
Get an up-close and personal experience like none other with an entry ticket to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill! Skip the long ticket line and go straight to the fast-track entrance for security checks.
Wander around as you discover some of the greatest monuments from the Roman Empire.
Starting at the majestic Colosseum, built between 72 AD and 80 AD by Emperor Vespasian and his son Titus, get lost in the underground and arena floor that once seated up to 73000 spectators.
After the visit, you can head over to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to explore some of the most important parts of Roman history.
While a private guide isn’t included in this tour, it’s affordable, you’ll get to skip the line, and explore at your own pace, which is definitely what you want when visiting the Colosseum!
Fast Track Colosseum with Arena Floor, Palatine, and Forum
Discover the iconic sights of Rome on this unique walking tour – Skip the line and get right into the Colosseum tour, Colosseum arena floor, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill without waiting time.
With its fascinating history, your tour guide will take you to the Colosseum, where you’ll explore its reconstructed arena floor and hear stories of gladiators and chariot races.
Then, revisit antiquity as you journey through the Roman Forum – the ancient city’s political, social, and religious heart. Explore the remains of public buildings, temples, and more where politics played out 2,000 years ago.
Finally, you’ll get to wander around Palatine Hill with your guide to uncover tales about Rome’s foundation, which housed some of the most powerful rulers during the Roman Republic.
What I like about this tour is that it includes everything – A detailed guide, the entrance to the Colosseum, the Colosseum underground and its arena floor, and Roman Forum with Palatine Hill. In short, this is the full package for an affordable price.
Colosseum with Arena, Forum, and Palatine Hill Tour
Enjoy first-hand access to the Colosseum tour and the arena of ancient Rome on a guided tour with skip-the-line Colosseum tickets.
Look out over the amphitheater as you learn from an expert guide about the site, its spectators, and the fights that were staged here.
Then, visit Palatine Hill and walk among the ruins of the Roman Forum alongside your art historian or archeologist guide – all while learning about life in Rome at that time with overlay books and 3D pictures to understand how things were back in the day.
Enjoy stunning views over the Forum, see where wealthy Romans lived, and get a feel for what life was like circa 2000 years ago. Skip the line access to this incredible site with a guide that knows everything about it – it makes a world of difference.
Colosseum and Roman Forum with Priority Access
Willing to get in as soon as possible? With priority access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, you’ll embark on a unique journey back in time without wasting time.
Your lively guide will regale you with tales of Roman emperors and gladiators as you explore one of the world’s most iconic attractions.
During the Colosseum tour, see where ancient Romans held spectacular spectacles that could last up to 100 days and marvel at its 80 entrances which allowed 65,000 spectators inside. After your visit, take some time to wander around and get some photos.
What’s more; you can also add the Colosseum underground as an option, which I highly recommend.
After that, hen explore Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum on a guided tour for an immersion into the social, political, and religious center of the Roman Empire.
With its incredible ruins and insightful experience, there’s no better way to learn about Rome’s past than taking this special tour.
Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum and Roman Forum
With this small group tour, explore the ancient Roman history and its iconic symbol: the Colosseum.
At the Colosseum, you will have a dedicated group entrance as well as access to a full 360° panoramic view of the monument – enabling you to imagine what it must have been like when there were 50,000 onlookers in the crowd.
Your guide can help illuminate what that must have felt like at the time. Moving on, your journey continues at the Forum, which was home to many important government buildings.
Step further into the past and visit Forum Magnum, which was once one of Rome’s main marketplaces.
With your local expert guide’s knowledgeable explanations, visualize how life was at the time of Ancient Rome and get a glimpse into their complex culture.
All these historical sights come alive with this best Rome Colosseum tour!
History of the Colosseum
The Colosseum, an awe-inspiring remnant of Ancient Rome, was built between 72 and 80 AD. Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it is thought to have been commissioned by Emperor Vespasian to be a majestic gift to the people of Rome after his reign.
As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it had no match when it came to its sheer size and capacity – with seating for up to 50,000 spectators over four levels and wide entrance arches capable of allowing up to 10,000 visitors enter swiftly.
Throughout its several centuries in use, it hosted gladiatorial combat; animal hunts; executions; theatrical performances; military parades – illustrating the grandeur and power of those in power.
Despite much damage from earthquakes and stone robbers over the years, the building still stands proud as a symbol not only of Roman history but also a tribute to its long-lasting endurance.
Tips for Visiting the Colosseum
When you plan to visit Colosseum, some tips can help make your experience even more enjoyable. From essential items to bring with you to advice on how to beat the crowds, here are some top tips for visiting the Colosseum!
Book Your Tour in Advance
To ensure you have the best experience, it is highly recommended to book your tour in advance. This will guarantee that you can get the tickets and avoid long queues on arrival.
Booking ahead also means that you can secure a spot on one of the guided tours for a more informative and enjoyable visit.
Taking some time to research and plan your trip in advance is essential to understanding the Colosseum!
Pack a Sunhat and Sunscreen
When visiting the Colosseum, you should consider the weather. Make sure to pack a sunhat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the hot Mediterranean sun.
A hat and sunscreen will not only keep you safe but also make your trip more comfortable so you can enjoy exploring ancient Rome!
Large backpacks are not allowed
Next, remember that large backpacks are prohibited. It’s best to keep your belongings small and easily accessible, such as a purse or a crossbody bag.
This will help ensure that you can pass through security quickly and start exploring the Colosseum right away.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
With endless attractions to visit in Rome, it goes without saying that you should wear a pair of comfortable shoes. Walking around the Colosseum takes time and energy, so it’s important to have footwear that won’t cause you any discomfort.
Additionally, make sure that your shoes are sturdy enough to handle some rough terrain as well.
Go to Gladiator School After Your Visit
After exploring the Colosseum with the group tour, consider taking your experience to the next level by attending a Gladiator School. Here, you can learn more about this iconic structure and even try out some of the skills used in ancient combat.
I recommend booking a session in this Gladiator school that is suitable for both adults and teens and lasts a couple of hours. Definitely a top follow up to these best Colosseum tours!
More Italy Travel Guides
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- 15 Best Tuscan Towns to Visit in 2023
- How Much Does a Trip to Italy Cost in 2023?
- 3 Days in Rome: Plan the Best Rome Itinerary
Conclusion
These were the best Colosseum tours you can join this year, whether you want to explore it by yourself or discover every corner with a guide.
No matter which tour you choose, each one offers a unique and special experience. Visiting the Colosseum is sure to be a journey that you’ll remember for years to come.
Try out one of these amazing tours and get ready to explore ancient Rome and the largest amphitheater like never before!
