What are the best 5 Colosseum Tickets?
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Colosseum tickets: what to know
What to know about Colosseum tickets
Colosseum ticket prices
Full Ticket
A full ticket to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine costs 18 euro. This ticket allows you to visit the three most important archaeological sites in Rome.
Reduced tickets
There are reductions for European citizens aged between 18 and 25. Admission is free for children under the age of 18.
Tickets with additional services
You may find tickets that include additional services such as guided tourswalking tours of the city or Colosseum tickets with priority access. These tickets cost more than the full-price ticket.
Last minute Colosseum ticket
Find last-minute tickets for the Colosseum can be complicated, but not impossible.
The Colosseum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, so tickets tend to sell out quickly, especially during the high season. Booking in advance is always the best option.
Although it is not advisable, you could try going directly to the Colosseum ticket office. Sometimes, there may be tickets available for immediate entry, but do not rely on this possibility.
Colosseum full experience ticket
I Colosseum Full Experience tickets offer a unique opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the history and architecture of this iconic monument. Unlike standard tickets, these tickets include access to areas usually closed to the public, offering a more complete and in-depth perspective.
Access to basements
One of the most fascinating features of the Full Experience tickets is the access to the underground of the Colosseum. Here you can see the ancient animal cages, the mechanisms used to lift the animals and the gladiators into the arena, and imagine the frenzy of the ancient fights.
Access to the arena
You can walk on the same sand on which gladiators and animals fought, and admire the arena from a unique perspective.
Visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: In many cases, the Full Experience ticket also includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the centres of political and social life in ancient Rome.
Full Experience Ticket Types
There are different types of Full Experience tickets, each with its own characteristics:
Full Experience - Underground and Arena
This ticket allows you to visit the underground passages of the Colosseum and walk in the arena.
Full Experience - Penthouse
This ticket gives you access to the penthouse of the Colosseum, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the arena and the city.
Full Experience - Guided tour
This ticket includes a full guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Colosseum ticket skip the line
I tickets skip the line for the Colosseum are a great option to avoid long waits and optimise your time in Rome.
How do skip-the-line tickets work?
By purchasing a skip-the-line ticket, you will have priority access over those who purchase tickets directly on site. This means that you can skip the queue at the ticket office and gain faster access to the security controls. Once you have passed the controls, you can start your visit to the Colosseum.
Where to buy skip-the-line tickets?
You can buy skip-the-line tickets for the Colosseum:
What does the skip-the-line ticket include?
Usually, the skip-the-line ticket gives you access to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. Some packages may also include a guided tour or other additional services.
Imperial Forums tickets
To visit the Imperial Forums in Rome, tickets can be purchased through the official website of the Colosseum Archaeological Park or at the on-site ticket offices. Usually, the combined ticket includes access to the Imperial Forums, the Colosseum, and the Palatine, offering a complete experience of Rome's main archaeological sites.
Tickets Colosseum
Combined Ticket: The standard ticket for the Colosseum also includes access to the Roman Forum and the Palatine. It is valid for 24 hours, so you can visit the other two sites the same day or the next day.
Single ticket: If you only want to visit the Colosseum, you can buy a single ticket.
Full Experience' ticket
If you want a more complete experience, you can opt for the 'Full Experience' ticket, which includes access to the Colosseum's underground and Belvedere (the upper floors). This ticket offers a more detailed and in-depth view of the monument.
Buy tickets online well in advance. Tickets may sell out, especially during the peak season.
Private or group tours
- Private Tour: Ideal if you want a personalised experience, with a dedicated guide who can adapt to your specific interests. Perfect if you have a particular interest in ancient history or want to avoid the crowds.
- Group Tour: An excellent option for those who want a cheaper guided experience. These tours often cover the main information and can be very informative.
- Audio-guide: If you prefer to visit the site at your own pace, you can opt for a ticket with an audio-guide. It allows you to explore the Colosseum and other sites with a detailed explanation.
Security and control
Backpacks and Bags: Avoid carrying large backpacks or bulky bags. They are subject to controls and may slow down entry.
Security Controls: As at many other tourist sites, there are security checks at the entrance. Avoid bringing prohibited items such as knives or glass bottles
Time of arrival
Morning
Try to arrive at least 30 minutes before your booked entry time to avoid long queues at security checkpoints. Early morning hours (before 9am) are ideal to avoid crowds.
Afternoon
If you can't go early in the morning, consider visiting in the late afternoon when the crowds begin to dwindle
What to see near the Colosseum
Roman Forum and Palatine
After visiting the Colosseum, spend some time at the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which are included in the combined ticket. These sites offer a fascinating insight into ancient Rome.
Viewpoints
If you have time, go up the Colle Oppio, from where there is a beautiful view of the Colosseum. It is a great place to take pictures.
When it is worth visiting the Colosseum
Recommended months
| Month | Turnout | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January | 🟢 Little | Low temperatures, fewer tourists, except during the New Year. |
| February | 🟢 Little | Excellent month, cool weather and few crowds. |
| March | 🟡 Low | Early spring, moderate turnout. |
| April | 🔴 A lot | High turnout for Easter and fine spring weather. |
| May | 🔴 A lot | Beginning of the high tourist season, very crowded. |
| June | 🔴 A lot | High season, high temperatures and large crowds. |
| July | 🔴 A lot | Very crowded, although there are evening events. |
| August | 🟡 Low | Holiday month, some tourists leave, but those who visit Rome remain. |
| September | 🟡 Low | Early autumn, attendance down but still present. |
| October | 🟡 Low | Good climate and fewer tourists than in summer. |
| November | 🟢 Little | Cool climate and low crowds, ideal for visiting. |
| December | 🔴 A lot | Christmas period, high attendance during the holidays. |
Recommended days and times
| Day | Recommended times | Turnout |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 09:00 - 11:00 | 🟢 Little |
| Tuesday | 09:00 - 11:00 | 🟢 Little |
| Wednesday | 09:00 - 11:00 | 🟡 Low |
| Thursday | 09:00 - 11:00 | 🟡 Low |
| Friday | 09:00 - 11:00 | 🟡 Low |
| Saturday | 16:00 - 18:00 | 🔴 A lot |
| Sunday | 16:00 - 18:00 | 🔴 A lot |
Where the Colosseum is located
The Colosseum is located in the centre of Rome, surrounded by other major points of interest such as the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill
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Accessibility
Accessibility: The Colosseum is partially accessible to people with disabilities. Be sure to enquire in advance if you have any special needs.
Visiting Time: Plan to spend at least 1.5-2 hours inside the Colosseum and a similar amount of time in the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Combined Tickets: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Colosseum tickets online
Accessibility: The Colosseum is partially accessible to people with disabilities. Be sure to enquire in advance if you have any special needs.
Visiting Time: Plan to spend at least 1.5-2 hours inside the Colosseum and a similar amount of time in the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Combined Tickets: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
A common question among visitors is: "Is it necessary to buy separate tickets for the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill?". The answer is no. These three sites are part of the same monumental complex and are all within a short distance of each other.
Fortunately, one ticket allows you access to all three sites. With the same ticket you use to enter the Colosseum, you can also visit the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. So be sure to save it after exploring the gladiator arena!
Do I have to visit all three monuments on the same day?
No, it is not compulsory. Tickets for the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are valid for two days, allowing you to divide your visit according to your preferences.
However, considering that Rome is full of spectacular monuments and that these three sites are very close to each other, it might be convenient to visit them all on the same day to optimise the time available.
Colosseum Tickets: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth taking a tour of the Colosseum?
Visiting the Colosseum on your own is a pleasant experience, but if you want to make the most of your visit and learn more about the history of the Colosseum (as well as the Roman Forum and the Palatine!), a guided tour is the best choice. An experienced guide can offer you information and details about the monument and its surroundings that you would not be able to discover on your own.
In which languages are tours available?
Most tours are available in English, but there are also tours in other languages such as Spanish, German, French and Portuguese.
Can I avoid queues with a guided tour?
Yes, you can. Like all visitors, guided groups must go through security checks, but you will be able to skip all other lines. For more details about visiting the Colosseum, please see our information page.
How long are the tours?
The duration of the tours generally varies from one and a half to three hours, depending on the sites included in the visit, which may include only the Colosseum or also the nearby Palatine and Roman Forum.
Is it necessary to book in advance?
It is not strictly necessary to book in advance, but if you decide to organise yourself once you arrive in Rome, you may find the groups for your desired dates and times already full. Booking in advance gives you a greater choice of dates and times, so it is advisable to do so.
What should I bring?
Bring your booking confirmation (digital format is also fine) and wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking. If you visit Rome in summer, it is advisable to also bring water and sun cream, as the Mediterranean sun can be very intense.
Combined Tickets: Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
A common question among visitors is: "Is it necessary to buy separate tickets for the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill?". The answer is no. These three sites are part of the same monumental complex and are all within a short distance of each other.
Fortunately, one ticket allows you access to all three sites. With the same ticket you use to enter the Colosseum, you can also visit the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. So be sure to save it after exploring the gladiator arena!
Do I have to visit all three monuments on the same day?
No, it is not compulsory. Tickets for the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are valid for two days, allowing you to divide your visit according to your preferences.
However, considering that Rome is full of spectacular monuments and that these three sites are very close to each other, it might be convenient to visit them all on the same day to optimise the time available.
Colosseum mon amour!
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