Rome: Express Small-Group Colosseum Tour w/ Arena or Underground

Rome , Italy

Rome: Express Small-Group Colosseum Tour w/ Arena or Underground

Active

(4 reviews)

1h - 7h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Unlock the Colosseum your way — fast, flexible, and unforgettable. This experience is built for travelers who want the real story of Ancient Rome with options to fit every schedule and style.

1️⃣ Express Small-Group Tour (60 min)
Quick yet powerful: A guided visit to the Colosseum (no Arena access) with licensed guide, skip-the-line entry, and self-guided access to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. Perfect for families, cruise guests, or last-minute planners.

2️⃣ Arena Semi-Private (90 min)
Step directly onto the Arena Floor through the Gladiator’s Gate in a small group (max 7). Includes guided Colosseum access, priority entry, and flexibility for independent Forum & Palatine exploration.

3️⃣ Underground Private Tour (3 hrs)
Our most exclusive option. Explore all levels of the Colosseum — including the Underground and Arena — with a dedicated licensed guide. Available for advance bookings only. Ideal for travelers who want full access, depth, and privacy.

Available options

Full Experience Arena

Full Experience Arena: “Guided Colosseum Arena tour (90 min), plus Forum & Palatine Hill self-guided with 24h access.”

<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Express Colosseum

Express Colosseum: “60-minute guided tour of the Colosseum. Then explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill at your own pace.”

<br/>Duration: 1 hour

Underground and Arena

Underground and Arena: Get exclusive guided access to the Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill <br/>Duration: 3 hours

What's included

Personalized support team

Entry access to the Colosseum (Arena/Underground/General, based on selection)

Licensed professional tour guide (1h, 1.5h or 3h based on selected option)

Self-guided entry to Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (where applicable)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

If you select the Express Colosseum option,your guided tour will start at the Colosseum entrance and cover the official visitor-accessible areas. You'll be guided through the most iconic parts of this ancient monument while hearing real stories of emperors, architecture, and Roman life.
After the 60-minute Colosseum experience, continue on your own to explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill using your included access (valid up to 24 hours before or after your Colosseum visit).
You can start from any official gate: Arch of Titus, Largo della Salara Vecchia, via del Tulliano, via San Gregorio, or Piazza Madonna di Loreto.

Stop 2

If you choose the option: Underground Private Tour (3h)
Explore every hidden level of the Colosseum with a private guide, from the underground tunnels to the Arena floor. This is a premium experience designed for VIPs, families, and true history lovers. Includes a 30-minute private photo session outside the Colosseum.

Extremely limited: Only 12 spots available per month. Advance reservation required.

Stop 3

If you choose this option – Full Experience Arena | Express Guided Tour + Self-Guided Forum & Palatine:

Enjoy direct access to the Colosseum Arena Floor, where your expert guide will take you back in time during a powerful 90-minute express tour.

Walk through the Gladiators’ Gate and stand on the Arena where the ancient fights took place — storytelling, monuments, and emotional insights await.

After the guided portion ends, you’ll continue at your own pace with access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, including the Imperial Forums, panoramic viewpoints, and the birthplace of Rome’s emperors.
Includes a 30-minute private photo session outside the Colosseum .

Stop 4

If you choose the option: Private Photographer + Entry Access
Capture your Roman experience with a 30-minute private photo walk outside the Colosseum, then enjoy hosted access to explore the inside of the Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill on your own time.

What's not included

Access to Belvedere or upper tiers

Hotel pickup or drop-off (unless pre-arranged for private groups)

Available languages

Audio guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please Meet us at the exit of colosseum metro lower level near SOS Sign and Green Kiosk
Important: This is a rigid meeting point, depending on the option you chose. We will contact you in advance to confirm all necessary details through our communication team.

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