Colosseum Underground and Dungeons Special Access Walking Tour

Rome , Italy

Colosseum Underground and Dungeons Special Access Walking Tour

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(23 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is highly sought after and extremely limited. The special restricted access to the Underground and Dungeons of the Colosseum means that groups are capped at 15 people, and entry is limited throughout the day. This tour sells out daily and is a very special experience.

When you book this tour, your certified guide can take you onto the Arena Floor as well as below it! You can go into the belly of the arena and see the cages where the animals were kept, the tunnels where gladiators awaited their turn in battle, and even a working replica of an elevator that would release the animals onto the arena floor. You will also get to walk around the seating level of the arena, and even explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with your guide after you finish in the Colosseum.

You definitely don't want to miss out on this once in a lifetime experience!

Available options

Colosseum Underground and Dungeons Special Access Walking Tour

Elite Underground

Extra Small Group: Maximum 7 people per group with a friendly, expert guide dedicated to your small group.

What's included

Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)

Entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Headsets for groups when appropriate

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

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

Access to the Arena Floor and Underground Areas

Expert Certified Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will enter the incredible Colosseum Arena and follow your guide into the special, restricted access Underground and Dungeons as well as the Arena Floor. Go below the stage level of the Colosseum where the animals and prisoners were kept. The tunnels where the gladiators would await their battles, as well as where the coordinator of the games would orchestrate the day's events. You will even see a replica of a working elevator that brought the lions to the stage floor to surprise the victims fighting above.
Rise with your guide from the depths of the dungeons to the stage of the Arena Floor where you can feel like a gladiator in battle. From here you will continue to rise into the spectator area to get the best views in the arena!
This exclusive access is only for those lucky enough to book this tour!

Stop 2

Walk in the footsteps of emperors as you climb the Palatine Hill where they lived. Gaze around at the beauty of the ruins of ancient palaces and the views only the emperors of Rome were lucky enough to have. As you walk through these palatial royal homes, you can see the marble flooring, archeological sites and even a private stadium for Emperor Domitian.
Your guide will take you through the beautifully maintained Farnese gardens, where this noble family revived the Palatine Hill in the Renaissance. Walking among the plants, and nymphaeum, you will get breathtaking views of the Forum below.

Stop 3

As you descend from the Palatine Hill, you will enter the Roman Forum. This ancient city center from the times of the Roman Kings in the 7th century BC comes alive again for you as your guide takes you into the heart of Ancient Rome. Walk down the Via Sacra on your way past the Basilica of Maxentius, the Temple and House of the Vestal Virgins, the Temple of Julius Caesar and even the Senate House. Ask your guide questions in order to paint the picture of the buildings as they were in Ancient Rome.

What's not included

Food and Drink

Gratuities

Transport to/from meeting point.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.8

13 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

10 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please provide the full names of all travelers when booking. Failure to present a voucher with all travelers' full names at the ticket office prior to entry may result in denied entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Each traveler must present a valid passport or ID document that matches the name provided at the time of booking for successful entry to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Meeting point

Our office will confirm the meeting point for your tour when our tickets are confirmed with the Colosseo Admin prior to the tour date.

Please DO NOT go to the Colosseum - the meeting point will be at one of our OFFICE locations.

Important notes

Your tour guide will have all entry tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
The guide will show the tickets for each traveller upon entry into the sites.

Please check-in at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Tours will depart promptly at the scheduled time, and no refunds will be given for late arrivals or missed tours.

The start time of the tour is subject to change. You will receive and email with any time changes. We strongly recommend NOT booking this tour in conjunction with other tours in the same day or on your day of travel. - Depending on the start time, the tour route may begin at the Forum/Palatine Hill.

Proof of identification may be required, so please bring a valid form of photo ID or a paper photocopy of ID for each guest.

The tour is non-refundable.

Tours will proceed in all weather conditions, unless the site is closed by authorities for safety reasons. It is highly recommended to bring bottled water, sunscreen, hat, and umbrella.

There will be a security check upon entering the Colosseum. Any weapons, sharp objects, glass or aerosol containers will be confiscated, so please do not bring these items to the tour.

All tours operate within the current COVID-19 regulations set by the Italian Government.

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