Colosseum Arena Floor Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Live Guide

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(315 reviews)

If you cancel at least 10 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 10 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take a minute to marvel at one of the world's most iconic monuments, the Colosseum. Our special access tour will let you enter the Colosseum through the 'Gate of Life' walking directly onto the arena floor, just as the gladiators did centuries ago. Once inside, feel the sand under your feet, experience the grandeur of the arena from a gladiator’s perspective and get an up-close view of the underground. Your expert tour guide will bring to life the exciting and shocking events that took place where you now stand, as you wander through arches and climb ancient stone steps, in this magnificent amphitheater.

Available options

Chinese

German

Greek

Russian

English

Japanese

German Small Group

Small group Tour -Max 12 Guest: Enhance your Colosseum visit on a semi-private tour with just 12 guests for a more personal and engaging experience.

Spanish Small Group

Small group Tour -Max 12 Guest: Enhance your Colosseum visit on a semi-private tour with just 12 guests for a more personal and engaging experience.

English Small Group

Small group Tour -Max 12 Guest: Enhance your Colosseum visit on a semi-private tour with just 12 guests for a more personal and engaging experience.

Arabic

Hindi

French Small Group

Small group Tour -Max 12 Guest: Enhance your Colosseum visit on a semi-private tour with just 12 guests for a more personal and engaging experience

French

Portuguese

Serbian

Spanish

What's included

Entrance Fees

Professional Licensed tour guide

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

Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)

Headsets

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

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

With the Colosseum looming large in the background, the excitement and anticipation rise as you get closer and closer to this world-famous landmark. Get a closer look at the incredibly detailed facade as you make your way through the arches and into the magnificent Colosseum, where you can imagine yourself a part of the roaring crowd that once filled the seats.

Stop 2

Dive deep into ancient history as you explore the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, the birthplace of Rome that is covered with breathtaking ancient architecture. Learn about Rome’s legendary twins, Romulus and Remus, as well Ancient Rome’s beloved Julius Caesar.

Stop 3

Take advantage of having a passionate guide and small group to see more and learn more about the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. With skip-the-line access and a licensed guide expertly leading the way, this experience of Ancient Rome will be unforgettable.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

AR HI DE RU PT JA EL EN ZH-CN IT FR ES SR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

93 reviews

5★

4★

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Tripadvisor 4.6

222 reviews

5★

181

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The names provided at the time of the booking cannot be changed.

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.

The meeting time is subject to change. In this case, you will be contacted in advance via email

Tours will run rain or shine (unless the monument is closed by the officials for safety reasons)

There are mandatory security checks at all entry points to the sites. The wait time for the security check can be considerable during peak times/seasons and has nothing to do with the ticket line

Toilets are limited, use the toilet before arriving for the tour. (Breaks made when possible)

No weapons (pocket knives), glass bottles or large backpacks

Refunds will not be provided for no-shows or late arrivals. If you are late to the meeting point, you will not be able to join your tour.

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 in front of the Basilica San Cosma and Damiano.

Look for tour greeters in red Show Me Italy jackets/shirts. They will be waiting next to the large red pillar just in front of the church on the Via dei Fori Imperiali.

Important notes

This is a guided tour and the guide will provide have the ticket for the duration of the tour. There is no need to pick up tickets in advance.
All participants must check in at the meeting point 15 minutes before the departure time.

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