Exploring the Colosseum at night

Experience the Colosseum under a different light and discover the ancient amphitheater after dark. With an expert tour guide, gain exclusive access to areas like the Arena floor in a serene ambiance that only after-hours can offer. Starting 5pm onwards, Colosseum night tours are your go-to if you are seeking a sundown adventure. Watch our in-depth video to find out why a night tour is the best way to explore the monument.

Why visit the Colosseum at night?

Colosseum at Night

The view at night

The Colosseum is one of the world's most iconic structures for its architectural grandeur. While its beauty is undeniable at any hour, as the sun sets, the Colosseum transforms into an ethereal sight, thanks to the play of shadow and light.

Colosseum at Night

Access exclusive areas

With Colosseum night tours, you can explore areas usually off-limits, such as the Underground, where gladiators and wild beasts once awaited their fate, the Arena, where the gladiators fought, or stand the Belvedere, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the amphitheater.

Note: Belvedere access is usually restricted, so check your ticket at the time of booking to confirm whether this area is included.

Colosseum at Night

Crowd-free experience

While the Colosseum is a popular destination, the night tour offers a quieter, more intimate experience. You will be part of a smaller group, which means less distraction and more personal interaction with the monument's history.

Colosseum at Night

Expert guides

Our knowledgeable guides are expert storytellers, who will transport you back to Rome's glory days under the cloak of night. Listen to the ancient gladiator tales, learn about the Colosseum's architectural wonders, and delve deep into its rich history.

Colosseum at Night

Experience Rome differently

With the Roman Forum closing at this hour, you will be guided around the museums to a vantage point with sweeping views of the temples, basilicas, and vibrant public spaces.

























































After-dark applause: Hear from our guests

Loved by 42 million+
Dedu Alina-Gabriela

Dedu

Aug 2025
5/5
review-image
review-image
review-image

+1 more

Thank you, Bianca! ❤️ In the past, whenever my boyfriend and I joined guided tours, the guides often seemed bored or boring, and not very good at answering questions. This time was completely different. Having Bianca as our guide was a breath of fresh air – she was engaging, passionate, and truly exceptional. She brought the Colosseum to life through her storytelling, making history feel vivid and real. She answered every question clearly and casually, turning the whole tour into a friendly conversation rather than a formal lecture. We joined the 5:30 PM evening tour, which was perfect – the light was beautiful, and the heat was much more bearable. We absolutely loved every moment. Highly recommend both the evening tour and, above all, having Bianca as your guide!
Rebecca Wilkinson

Rebecca

Jul 2025
5/5
review-image
review-image
review-image
Giuseppe was an outstanding guide! The in-depth and funny information he knew was incredible! He knew all the answers to anyone's questions and was extremely engaging. Even my teenager really enjoyed hearing all the information and that's no mean feat 😂 It was easy to find where to check in and we were very looked after from start to finish. The Colosseum itself was the most phenomenal place to see. It was, in every way, awe-inspiring.
Jana Mann

Jana

Jul 2025
5/5
review-image
review-image
The time in the evening. Great light and less crowded. Crown Tours highly recommended.
Prashant Khetan

Prashant

Jul 2025
5/5
Great tour. Very informative and the amount of time was perfect, especially with kids. Mary was a fantastic tour guide. Highly recommend.
Carol Ann Erikson

Carol

Jul 2025
5/5
Oour tour guide, Mary, was very knowledgeable and engaging. My 12 year old daughter said it was the best tour she has ever been on!
ETTIGHOFFER Dominique

Ettighoffer

Jun 2025
4/5
The guide's explanations and kindness.
Lucile Abeille

Lucile

Aug 2025
4/5
Ian Gilbert

Ian

Jul 2025
5/5

Day vs. Night: How the Colosseum experience changes

FeaturesDay experience ☀️Night experience 🌙

Crowds

The Colosseum draws over 12 million visitors a year, and daytime is peak hours, so expect long lines, crowds, and a lively atmosphere.

Entry is capped at smaller groups, so you enjoy more space and a calmer pace.

Access & format

Explore on your own or join a guided tour. Standard tickets include the first two tiers and the Forum/Palatine Hill.

Available only with a guide. Includes exclusive access to the Arena Floor and often the underground tunnels.

Ambience

Bright daylight for photos, but also hotter and noisier during summer.

The amphitheater is illuminated against the night sky—dramatic, cooler, and far less hectic.

Unique experience

Best if you want the full park (Colosseum + Forum + Palatine).

Perfect if you want the Colosseum itself in a more intimate, atmospheric setting.

Colosseum night tour: Highlights

Colosseum at Night

Facade

As night falls, the Colosseum's facade is beautifully lit, emphasizing the architectural details and magnificence of this ancient monument. Inside, the Colosseum is transformed into a spectacle of golden light and deep shadows, creating a unique atmosphere to absorb the history of this ancient attraction.

Colosseum at Night
Colosseum at Night
Colosseum at Night
View of Rome from Colosseum
See the Colosseum like few ever do

Step inside Rome’s icon after dark, when the crowds are gone and the arena glows under the night sky. This rare, after-hours experience is limited to only a handful of visitors each evening.

Secure your spot now — availability is extremely limited!

Know before you go on your Colosseum night tour

  • Location: The Colosseum is in central Rome. Check your confirmed ticket for details on where to meet your guide, and which entrance to use.
  • Accessibility: Unfortunately, these night tours are not suitable for wheelchair users.
  • Timings: Night tours typically start after 5pm. Please check your ticket for exact information.
  • Availability: Night tours may not be available year-round since they are niche experiences. Book early and in advance to ensure you get a spot.
  • Duration: Night tours are typically between 2 and 2. hours long
  • Group size: Enjoy personalized attention in groups of 25 members or less.
  • Dress code: While there's no strict dress code, consider carrying a shawl or light sweater in case it gets windy later in the evening.
  • Budget (under 15 per head): Head to Alle Carrette, a cozy pizzeria about 400m away, known for its wood fired pizzas.
  • Mid-range: La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, a family-friendly restaurant that offers traditional food with a twist. Located 600m away from the Colosseum.
  • Luxury: Aroma, a Michelin-star rooftop restaurant that offers stunning views of the monument. Located 600m away.
  • Book tickets as soon as they are released—slots fill quickly in high season.
  • Arrive 10–15 minutes early to enjoy lit-up surroundings and avoid missing your tour.
  • For night photography, adjust your camera to a higher ISO and use a steady surface to avoid blurry shots.
  • Enjoy the guide’s stories—they’re richer and more vivid at night. After the tour, stroll the piazza for magical moonlit views or dinner close by.
  • Avoid carrying trolleys, large bags, backpacks, suitcases, and all kinds of sharp objects as you will not be allowed to take them inside.
Plan your visit

Nights, camera, action: Capturing the Colosseum at night

  • Photography policy: Photography is allowed during the night tour, but flash, tripods, and drones are strictly prohibited. Handheld cameras and smartphones are fine.
  • Best vantage points:From the Arena floor, you can frame the tiers lit dramatically against the night sky.At the Arch of Constantine just outside the Colosseum, capture a sweeping exterior view glowing under floodlights.Inside the Underground (if included), focus on shadowy tunnels for atmospheric close-ups.
  • Camera tips:Use a wide aperture (f/2.8–f/4) to capture more light in dim areas.Keep ISO around 800–1600 to avoid grain while still brightening your shot.Steady your camera against railings or walls if you don’t have image stabilization.
  • Smartphone settings: Switch to night mode for balanced exposure, or use manual settings to lower ISO for cleaner shots.
  • Extra hack: Step outside after the tour—the Piazza del Colosseo offers magical nighttime panoramas without the crowds.

Frequently asked questions about Colosseum night tours

What parts of the Colosseum can I access at night?

Most night tours include access to the Arena Floor and the first two tiers, with some offering exclusive Underground access. The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are not accessible at night.

Are the Colosseum night tours available throughout the year?

The availability of night tours at the Colosseum depends on the season, typically running between the last week of March and early November. We recommend browsing our carefully curated selection of experiences to find the most suitable night tour option for your visit to Rome.

Are Colosseum night tours worth the extra cost?

Night tours typically cost more than daytime entry. This higher price provides access to the Colosseum with significantly smaller crowds, a unique illuminated setting, and often includes a knowledgeable guide, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an immersive and memorable experience.

Are night tours less crowded than daytime visits?

Yes! Night tours allow fewer visitors per slot, making for a more intimate and relaxed experience without the daytime crowds.

Will I get skip-the-line access for a night tour?

Yes, night tours generally come with priority access, so you bypass the main daytime entry lines.

Is the Colosseum well-lit at night?

Yes, the Colosseum is strategically illuminated, creating a dramatic and atmospheric glow. However, some areas (like the Underground) may be dimly lit, so watch your step.

Are night tours suitable for all ages and mobility levels?

Age restrictions might apply on certain tours, or not permit children under the age of 7, while the uneven terrain and stairs within the Colosseum can present mobility challenges. Confirm suitability for all participants before booking and inquire about accessible options if needed.

What should I bring on a night tour?

Bring a valid ID (if required), comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces, and a camera with good low-light capabilities for capturing the illuminated Colosseum. Check specific tour guidelines on bag size.

Are night tours available year-round?

Night tours typically run from spring to early fall, but availability can vary. Check the schedule in advance, especially if visiting in the off-season.

Is a night tour worth it if I’ve already visited during the day?

Definitely! A night tour offers a completely different atmosphere, exclusive access to quieter spaces, and dramatic lighting that transforms the experience.

More reads

Colosseum night tours

Plan your visit

Colosseum night tours

Skip the Line Tickets

Colosseum night tours

Guided Tours

Rome Tickets
Scan code
Download the Headout app

Get Help 24/7

We Accept
VISA
MASTERCARD
AMEX
PAYPAL
MAESTROCARD
APPLEPAY
GPAY
DISCOVER
DINERS
IDEAL
FPX
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.