Colosseum and Palatine Hill: Unveil Rome’s Ancient Spectacles

Rome , Italy

Colosseum and Palatine Hill: Unveil Rome’s Ancient Spectacles

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(35 reviews)

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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About this experience

Discover how the animals and gladiators were brought up to the arena where the action took place in front of thousands of spectators.

After walking around the perimeter of the Colosseum, gaze down onto the arena floor and beneath to the maze-like underground level where man and beast awaited their moment of glory or met their fateful death.

Follow your guide outside the arena and travel even further back in time as you enter the Roman Forum, the true heart of Ancient Rome with monuments dating as far back as the 7th century BC.

Learn of the legendary founding of Rome on the Palatine hill and how a she-wolf rescued and nursed the young twins Romulus (legendary first King of Rome) and Remus after they washed up on the banks of the Tiber River, and how these famous twins would pave the way for tyrants, Emperors, and Caesars who declared themselves Gods throughout the rise and fall of the Roman Empire.

Available options

Colosseum and Palatine Hill: Unveil Rome’s Ancient Spectacles

What's included

Online support at the time of boarding for the tour

Entrance ticket to the Roman Forum

Certified Guide

Palatine Hill Entrance Ticket

Online consultant who will send you boarding information

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheater (in Latin: Amphitheatrum Flavium) or simply Amphitheatrum (in Italian: Anfiteatro) located in the center of the city of Rome, is the largest Roman amphitheater in the world (capable of containing a number of spectators estimated between 50,000 and 87,000). It is the most important Roman amphitheater, as well as the most impressive monument of ancient Rome that has come down to us.

The amphitheater was built in the Flavian period on an area on the eastern edge of the Roman Forum. Its construction, begun by Vespasian in 70 AD, was completed by Titus, who inaugurated it on 21 April in 80 AD. Further changes were made during Domitian's empire, in 90.

The name "Colosseum" spread only in the Middle Ages, and derives from the popular deformation of the Latin adjective "colosseum" (which can be translated into "colossal", as it appeared in the early Middle Ages among the one or two-storey houses)

Stop 2

The Roman Forum, also known by its Latin name Forum Romanum (Italian: Foro Romano), is a rectangular forum (plaza) surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the center of the city of Rome.

Citizens of the ancient city referred to this space, originally a marketplace, as the Forum Magnum, or simply the Forum.You will pass several important ruins of government buildings of the past and stroll along the “Via Sacra” the main street of Ancient Rome where once emperors such as Augustus and Hadrian, and generals paraded in the full glory of their triumphs to the Roman Forum.

The Roman Forum was the center of commercial and religious life in Rome. The tour also takes you to the interior of the old Senate, the dwellings of the Vestal Virgins, Temples of Vesta, Septimius Severus, and Triumphal Arches of Titus, your guide will tell you stories of the past which are bewildering and almost impossible to believe – all are true by the way.

Stop 3

The Palatine Hill may be overshadowed by the fame of its next-door neighbour, the Colosseum, and overlooked by many tour companies in Rome, but you wouldn’t want to miss it.

No visit to Rome is complete without a thorough exploration of the ancient city. This majestic hill towers over the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus, the ruins of its ancient palaces still visible from a distance were once the home of emperors and the site of temples, and was at the center of Rome’s most important myth – the legend of Romulus and Remus.

You can’t understand Ancient Rome without understanding something of the Palatine and its remarkable history.

What's not included

Food and drink

Round-trip hotel transfers

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 2.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

31 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The youth rate is applicable to students and children: ID with photo and proof of age are required.

It is not a private tour, the group can be made up of 1 to 24 people If the chosen time is not available, you will be transferred to another time on the same day. These changes do not depend on us. Therefore, when booking, you are aware of this possible change and that is why we warn you not to have any complaints later, or requests for refunds. Example: If you choose the 9:00 am time slot and the Coliseu sales counter closes at that time, you will be transferred to the first available time slot, at 10:00am, 12:00pm and 2:00 pm.

It is advisable not to book more than one tour on the same day, with schedules close together.

The tour is shared, not private.

Please leave a Whatsapp number where you will be contacted by our support once you book the tour with us.

Each traveler must present a valid passport or identification document that matches the name provided at the time of booking to successfully enter the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Important notice for last-minute reservations (same day or overnight): in case of lack of seats, the customer will be placed on the day following the reserved date.

Meeting point

When you’ll arrive, please enter in the office. To avoid losing the entrances to the Colosseum, we kindly ask our customers to arrive 15 minutes earlier, at this address, where our guide will be waiting for you, in Via dI San Giovanni in Laterano, 14

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