Small Group Tour: Colosseum & Roman Forum with Arena Floor Access

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(743 reviews)

If you cancel at least 7 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund. If you cancel within 7 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step onto the arena floor like a gladiator when you take this exclusive tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Your friendly professional guide will take you and your small group through the special gladiator gate entrance to stand directly on the arena floor. Here, you will get to feel what it's like to look up at the stadium the way gladiators would on the day of battle. After learning about the daily lives and fighting styles of the gladiators your guide will take you up to the next level so you can see the arena from the view of the excited spectators, where you will learn all about the games and the emperors who hosted them. Your guide will also take you to the Roman Forum, the city center of ancient Rome with it's temples and government offices. From here you'll go up to the Palatine Hill to hear your guide tell stories of the emperors as you walk through the palaces they built and lived in.

Available options

Be a Gladiator

December at the Colosseum

Low Season Access: Take advantage of the cooler temperatures and fewer crowds to get this special Decamber tour Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes: With fewer crowds, take advantage of seeing more sites in less time.

VIP Winter in Rome

Special Small Group Tour : This VIP tour has a maximum of 10 people and timing that is optimal for the short, cooler winter days in Rome.

Mid-Size Colosseum Arena Floor

Mid-size group : This is a tour with a maximum of 20 people.

VIP Extra Small Group Tour

VIP Extra Small Group: With a maximum of 5 people on this tour, you are sure to get the extra VIP treatment in the form of a tiny group tour. Duration: 3 hours Colosseum, Forum, Palatine: The order of the sites visited on the tour will vary based on time and date booked.

VIP Early Bird Exclusive

VIP Very Small Group Tour: With a maximum of 9 adults (+ accompanying children) this is as close to a private experience we offer as a group tour option Prime time Colosseum: Ask the questions you've always wondered about in this small group, and don't get lost in a crowd

VIP Small Afternoon Tour

Extra Small Group : With a maximum of 9 adults (+ accompanying children) this is as close to a private experience we offer as a group tour option Colosseum, Forum & Palatine: You'll be able to ask our guide questions specific to your interests in our small group

Premier VIP Emperors Tour

Extended Tour of Imperial Rome: After visiting the Arena Floor of the Colosseum, visit the Palatine Hill, Roman Forum and Imperial Forums of the Emperors Premier VIP: With a small group of maximum 6 people, you will have the full attention of your expert tour guide for your entire tour. Duration: 4 hours: The tour will last 3.5 to 4 hours depending upon the pace of the group. Colosseum and Imperial Rome: Visit the Arena Floor of the Colosseum as well as the Palatine Hill, Roman Forum, and the Imperial Forums of the emperors. Ages 12 and Up Only please: Due to the duration of the tour and the route, the minimum age is 12 yrs, the tour is not suitable for strollers.

Large Group Discount Arena

Large Group Tour Arena Access: Maximum 30 people in the group.

Small Group Arena Floor Access

Beat the Roman Heat: Tour route is designed to keep you cool by entering the Colosseum and Roman Forum/Palatine Hill at the optimal times of day. Small Group Arena Floor Access

What's included

Entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Headsets for groups when appropriate

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

Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)

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

Access to Arena floor

Expert Certified Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Take in the oldest part of Rome when you visit the Roman Forum to see the government buildings, temples and ancient roads that were home to daily life in Ancient Rome. Pass by the senate house, the temple of the Vestal Virgins and the Temple of Julius Caesar where his ashes were laid to rest. Walk on the road built by Emperor Augustus and marvel at the beautiful ruins that can still be seen today.

Stop 2

Make your way from the forum up to the Palatine Hill where Emperors built their palaces. Once home to the founder of Rome, Romulus, the Palatine Hill is where Rome originates. Throughout Roman history emperors were born and died on this hill. Many of them built grand homes we call palaces thanks to the name of the hill. You will walk through the ruins of these palaces as your guide tells you the entertaining stories of the emperors and the history of Rome. You will even get a peak at the Circus Maximus, the stadium where chariot races were held, as well as Emperor Domitian's own private stadium on top of the Palatine Hill.

Stop 3

You will feel like a gladiator about to go into battle when you enter the Colosseum directly onto the arena floor using the special access Gladiator Gate. This special entrance is only for those who book this special Arena Floor experience. Once you are on the floor, you will be able to look up at the stadium where over 50,000 spectators would sit to watch the day's events. The culmination of which were the gladiatorial battles. Your guide will tell you all about the different styles of fighting as well as the daily life activities for the gladiators. From here you will proceed up into the stands themselves to get the point of view of the fans, and some excellent photo opportunities. This is where your amazing guide will tell you all about the many events that were part of the games, including animal parades, exotic animal hunts and even public executions at lunchtime. This is the most complete Colosseum experience you can get and we know you will love every minute of it.

What's not included

Transport to/from meeting point.

Food and Drink

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

405 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

338 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

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

Meet at the Roman Vacations office on Via dei Santi Quattro, 81 Roma RM 00184.. Look for the white Roman Vacations flag with the lion head on it.

Important notes

You will show this ticket upon arrival to the meeting point. Once with your small group, your professional tour guide will have the official entry tickets for every person within the group and you will all enter together.

*****All participants must bring IDs that match the names provided during the checkout process. Please make sure that the names you submit match you ID.*****

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.

***Depending on the start time, the tour route may begin at the Forum/Palatine Hill.***

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