Colosseum Full Experience Underground and Arena Tour

Rome , Italy

Colosseum Full Experience Underground and Arena Tour

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(3 reviews)

1h - 3h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Unlock the secrets. Experience the Colosseum like few ever do.

Step beyond the surface and dive deep into the hidden world beneath the Colosseum — a place where gladiators prepared for battle, and wild beasts were lifted to the arena on ancient wooden elevators.

Start your journey underground, where history whispers through dark corridors and stone chambers. This is the backstage of ancient Roman spectacles — not open to regular ticket holders.

Walk onto the Arena Floor, just like a gladiator would. From here, you'll see the Colosseum from a once-in-a-lifetime perspective — looking up at where over 50,000 spectators once cheered and roared.

After your guided tour, enjoy unlimited time to explore the 1st and 2nd levels of the Colosseum at your own pace — take iconic photos, relax in the shade, and feel the weight of history all around you.

Available options

Colosseum Full Experience Underground and Arena Tour

What's included

Access to the Colosseum's restricted underground

Entry tickets to Palatine hill and Roman Forum

Access to Arena level, first and the second levels of Colosseum

All Taxes and Fees

Certified tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

1. Starting from the Underground:
The tour begins with a licensed guide in the underground level of the Colosseum – the area where gladiators and wild animals were kept and prepared before entering the arena. Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at ancient Roman combat: narrow corridors, animal cages, and the fascinating engineering systems like manually operated elevators.

2. Continue to the Arena Floor:
Next, you'll enter the arena floor with your guide – the very stage where the battles took place. From this perspective, you’ll see the Colosseum just as the gladiators once did.

3. Free visit to the First and Second Levels:
After the guided portion ends, you're free to explore the first and second levels of the Colosseum on your own. Take your time, enjoy the views, and capture as many photos as you like, this part of the visit has no time limit.

Stop 2

You can freely enter the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill after your Colosseum tour ends. The entrance is located next to the Arch of Constantine.
As you walk through the ruins, you’re stepping among the remains of the Senate House, temples, markets, and triumphal arches. Emperors, generals, senators, and philosophers once walked these very paths.

Stop 3

According to myth, this is where Romulus, the founder of Rome, established the city in 753 BC.

Why visit Palatine Hill?

It was the residential area of Roman emperors.
It offers a peaceful atmosphere, ancient ruins, and breathtaking views over the Roman Forum and Colosseum.
Walking through its imperial palaces, gardens, and panoramic terraces gives you a true sense of ancient Roman grandeur.

What's not included

Food and Drink

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 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

Meeting point

Upon arrival at the entrance:
1. Your tickets will be scanned, and your ID checked.
2. You will go through airport-style security.
3. After the second ticket scan, please turn right and locate the numbered meeting points.
Head to Meeting Point 3, where you will meet your tour guide.

Important notes

Your entry tickets with barcodes will be sent to you through Viator (booking confirmation voucher is not your entry ticket) . Alternatively, if you have WhatsApp, we can also deliver the tickets to you there for added convenience.

Meeting point:
Upon arrival at the entrance:
1. Your tickets will be scanned, and your ID checked.
2. You will go through airport-style security.
3. After the second ticket scan, please turn right and locate the numbered meeting points.
Head to Meeting Point 3, where you will meet your tour guide.

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