Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor & Roman Forum | Semi-Private Tour

Rome , Italy

Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor & Roman Forum | Semi-Private Tour

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(212 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Revel in an experience once reserved for gladiators alone as you walk through the ancient gates that lead to the Colosseum Arena Floor.

This carefully crafted itinerary includes the Gladiators Gate of the Colosseum and the Arena floor, plus the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to give you a complete perspective on one of history’s most epic civilizations.

Not only will you be following in the footsteps of gladiators, you’ll also get a 360° panorama from where it was possible to see all 50,000 bloodthirsty spectators with a brilliantly executed narrative from a passionate guide.

After your guided Colosseum tour, you’ll head past the Arch of Constantine and into the Roman Forum.

You’ll never be a number in a small group of only 12 people or fewer. This Colosseum Tour allows for the personal attention you won’t find with larger groups.

Available options

Semi - Private Tour

Duration: 3 hours<br/>All included: A small group of a maximum of 12 participants
English Guided Tour
Exclusive Access to the Arena Floor

What's included

Expert English Speaking Guide

Full tour of the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Semi - Private Tour

Colosseum reservation fee (valued at €2 per person)

Note: Colosseum fees are as above. The remaining cost of the experience covers other services

All Fees and Taxes

Colosseum entrance ticket with Arena Floor special access (valued at €24 per person)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

If you’ve been dreaming about visiting Rome’s iconic Flavian Amphitheater then this gladiator’s Arena Colosseum Tour is for you. After avoiding wainting in long lines, and heading to this amazing edifice’s backdoor, a.k.a. ‘the gladiator’s entrance’, you’ll be treated to sections that are completely closed off to standard ticket-holders. Our Colosseum Tour with arena floor access lets you stand exactly where the heat of the action took place.

Seeing the Colosseum from these totally unique perspectives is an emotional rush, heightened by the captivating historic narrative supplied by your passionate guide, who’ll separate fact from myth on one of the most intriguing sites in the world. Find out what each area of the Colosseum was used for, the engineering feats behind every brick, and how this bloodthirsty ring reflected the political and social values of Ancient Rome herself.

Stop 2

Following your exclusive Colosseum tour, we'll visit the adjacent triumphal arch – a towering masterpiece in white marble, which brims with intriguing details. Emperor Constantine had the monument erected in 315 AD to commemorate his victory over Maxentius a few years earlier – a battle he claimed to have won with the help of Christ himself. Despite his assertion, there are no Christian symbols in the arc. Instead, there are statues of Dacian prisoners and reliefs picturing Marcus Aurelius giving bread to the poor. The inside of the arch shows Emperor Trajan’s victory over the Dacians.

Stop 3

Avoid waiting in lines to enter the Roman Forum too, where you'll find yourself immersed in what once was the pulsing heart of one of the greatest ancient civilizations the world has ever known. See the incredible ruins of temples, and timeless columns as your guide wanders through the pages of history together for an incredible portrait of Ancient Rome.

Stop 4

Overshadowed by the Colosseum and Roman Forum, in reality, it’s the Palatine Hill that casts its shadow over both. Legend says it was here that Romulus founded Rome, setting the history we all know in motion, and the archaeological record confirms settlements began on this hilltop as early as the 8th century BC.

This hill was so lavish in its heyday that the word “palace” actually derives from it. Follow your guide for some of the best views of the Caput Mundi, looking over the Forum on one side, the Circus Maximus on the other, and explore the extravagant remains of many an imperial palace.

What's not included

Hotel Pick Up - Drop Off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

127 reviews

5★

119

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Tripadvisor 5.0

85 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Names on the reservation MUST be the same as your ID or YOU WILL BE REFUSED ENTRY to the Colosseum.

Please bring a valid ID document (no photocopies!) for each participant - documents will be checked and they must match the names on the voucher.

The final start time of the tour might be updated up to a week in advance as there can be some changes for logistical reasons.

Please plan on being at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start time.

We are unable to accommodate late arrivals as we have a time entrance to respect. Missed tours due to late arrivals are non-refundable. Please allow extra time to reach the meeting point as Rome's streets can be confusing.

Meeting point

This tour begins outside the “Colosseo” metro station (Line B - ground level). Your guide will be waiting in front of the green kiosk, holding a sign with the ‘What a Life Tours’ logo on it. Please remember that Rome’s streets can be confusing, we recommend allowing extra time in case you get lost.

Important notes

Thank you for booking your Colosseum Tour with us - a fabulous choice!

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

• This tour is subject to time change - in case of changes, the final start time will be communicated one week before the tour.
Should arena floor access not be possible, the tour will run as a regular Colosseum tour (of the same duration of 3 hours), and a partial refund of 10 euros per person will be issued.

• You must bring with you a valid ID document (NB! It must be an original document, no photocopies are allowed) for all participants because the Colosseum tickets are nominal and your IDs will be checked when you enter. Your reservation MUST HAVE THE CORRECT NAMES AS PER YOUR ID. Failure to book correctly means you will be refused entry to the Colosseum.

• We cannot accommodate wheelchairs or walkers on this tour. Please note that a group tour is rather fast-paced so in case of any mobility issues we recommend booking a private tour so you can go at your own pace.

• We are unable to accommodate late arrivals as we have a time entrance to respect. Missed tours or tickets due to late arrivals are non-refundable. Please allow extra time to reach the meeting point, the closest Metro stop is Colosseo, we meet right outside the station near the green kiosk on the ground level. You will be looking for the "What A Life Tours" sign. In case you take a taxi, the usual drop-off point is on the upper level so you should descend.

• The meeting time is 15 minutes before the start time of the tour.

• If you have difficulty finding the meeting point or any other issue requiring urgent attention, please call us at +39 06 89111009. Our office hours from Monday through Saturday are 7 AM - 5 PM (CET).

Thank you, we look forward to welcoming you to Rome!

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