Rome: Colosseum Underground and Celio's Secret Lakes VIP Tour

Rome , Italy

Rome: Colosseum Underground and Celio's Secret Lakes VIP Tour

Active

(1 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Descend into the Colosseum Underground with your private guide, exploring the tunnels and chambers where gladiators prepared for battle and wild beasts awaited their dramatic entrance into the arena.

Step beyond the ordinary with an exclusive, fully private visit to Celio’s underground lakes.

Only you, your guide, and a professional speleologist will explore this hidden world of ancient quarries and glistening subterranean waters.

Experience Rome like a VIP, with seamless logistics, expert storytelling, and access to two of the most elusive and breathtaking underground sites in the Eternal City.

Available options

Rome: Colosseum Underground and Celio's Secret Lakes VIP Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Security Helmets

Official Speleologist

Celio's Underground Lakes and Caves Private Opening

Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)

Colosseum Underground Entrance Fees

Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off (centrally located hotels. Within Aurelian Walls)

Please note: Colosseum fees as above. The remaining cost of the experience covers other services.

Blue Badge Certified Private Tour Guide

Colosseum entrance with underground access (valued at €24 per person)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Step beyond the ordinary and descend into the hidden depths of the Colosseum Underground, where the secrets of the gladiators, wild beasts, and ancient engineering come to life. Accompanied by your private guide, walk through the shadowy tunnels where Rome’s most legendary battles were prepared. Stand under the original arena floor, where the roar of the crowd once echoed, and uncover the intricate network of passageways that allowed for the seamless execution of grand spectacles. As you explore, your guide will share gripping stories of the gladiators’ fate, the ingenious mechanisms used to elevate wild animals into the arena, and the hidden world that made these bloody games possible.

Leaving the Colosseum behind, follow your private guide to one of Rome’s most exclusive hidden sites, accessible only to a select few. Beneath the Temple of Claudius on the Celian Hill lies a vast network of ancient quarries, where time has stood still for centuries.

In total privacy, with only your guide and a professional speleologist, descend into this subterranean world, where emerald-green lakes shimmer in the darkness. The silence is absolute—no crowds, no other visitors—just you and the awe-inspiring beauty of this forgotten place. Learn about the quarry’s origins, its role in ancient Rome, and the natural phenomenon that created these hidden waters.

What's not included

Flashlights

Shoes

Visit to the Colosseum Arena, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not suitable for people with mobility issues

Not suitable for people who suffer from claustrophobia and/or anxiety

Not suitable for people older than 70 y.o. and younger than 10 y.o.

Please remember to wear gripped shoes on the day of the tour. If appropriate shoes will be missing, access to the Celio Underground Caves will be denied

Please remember to bring a flashlight (mobile phone flashes are not allowed) on the day of the tour. If a proper flashlight will be missing, access to the Celio Underground Caves will be denied.

Please ensure you bring valid photo ID or passports. Colosseum staff will perform checks, and access may be denied if the names on the tickets do not match the identification provided.

Closed-toe, non-slip shoes are required for safety. Access to the Colosseum may be denied without proper footwear.

It is not possible to bring large bags or backpacks, as well as bulky bags and trolleys to the sites. (only small or medium flat bags). Tripods are not allowed.

To ensure the safety and well-being of all our guests, every reservation that includes minors (under 18) must be accompanied by at least one adult. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bookings made exclusively by unaccompanied minors.

About Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.

Top Attractions

Colosseum

The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)

Vatican City

Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

Religious Half day €17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)

Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.

Architecture 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.

Pasta Vegetarian

Carbonara

A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.

Pasta Contains pork and eggs

Supplì

Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Snack Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)

Carciofi alla Romana

Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.

Vegetable Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park Biking along the Tiber River Rock climbing in the nearby mountains Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens Boating on Lake Albano Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting the Vatican Museums Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets

Getting there

By air

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina

By bus

Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Trastevere Monti Prancipio Testaccio

Day trips

Ostia Antica

30 km from Rome • Half day

An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.

Tivoli

30 km from Rome • Full day

A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.

Orvieto

120 km from Rome • Full day

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.

Festivals

Natale di Roma • April 21 Festa de' Noantri • July Rome Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots