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Visiting the Colosseum in Rome | Detailed guide to planning & executing the perfect trip

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Colosseum | Visitor Information At A Glance

Colosseum plan your visit
  • What are the Colosseum opening hours?
    The Colosseum is open from 9 AM to 7:15 PM throughout the week.
  • Where is the Colosseum located?
    Colosseum is located at Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy. Get directions.
  • How many entrances does the Colosseum have?
    Originally, the Colosseum had a total of 80 entrances. Today, 3 of them are in use.
  • How many number visitors does the Colosseum see per year?
    The Colosseum hosts approximately 6 million visitors annually.

What are the Colosseum Opening Hours?

27 March to 31 August 2023: 9 AM to 7:15 PM

1 to 30 September 2023:9 AM to 7 PM

1 to 30 October 2023: 9 AM to 6:30 PM

from 31 October to 31 December 2023: 9 AM to 4:30 PM

Last Entry: One hour before closing time.

Closure: The Colosseum is closed on 25 December and 1 January.

What's the Best Time to Visit the Colosseum?

Colosseum plan your visit

The Colosseum is one of the most popular attractions in Rome, which means it is bound to be flocked with tourists. Avoid visiting on weekends and holidays, go during the week instead. We suggest visiting in the morning, around the time when the attraction opens.

The best season to visit the attraction is between November and February, which is the off season. The weather is also quite pleasant during this time and crowds are minimal. The high season in Rome is between April and September. We recommend visiting during the low season when travel and stay prices are lesser than usual and crowds aren’t as much.

Where is the Colosseum Located?

How to Get to the Colosseum?

Colosseum plan your visit

By Public Transport

Metro: The Colosseum has its own metro station - Colosseo. Take line B to reach the Colosseo station. The entrance to the Colosseum is a 2 to 4-minute walk away.

Tram: You can also take a tram to the Colosseum. Alight at the Piazza del Colosseo stop using lines 3 or 8.

Bus: Take buses 40, 60, or 75 to reach the Colosseum and alight at stop Piazza del Colosseo. The entrance to the Colosseum is a 5-minute walk from here.

Colosseum Plan Your Visit

By Car

If you're planning to drive to the Colosseum, here are a few paid parking spots nearby. You can walk to the entrance from each of these parking facilities.

Know Before You Go

Entrances
Accessibility
Facilities
Rules & Regulations
Visitor Tips 
Stay
Colosseum Plan Your Visit
Colosseum Plan Your Visit

The Colosseum is wheelchair accessible. There is a ramp to enter the building to reach the ground floor. The middle levels can be reached via an elevator. The top level and underground levels, however, cannot be accessed by wheelchair. 

There are multiple accessible bathrooms present at the attraction.

Colosseum Plan Your Visit
  • Restrooms are available inside the Colosseum.
  • There are no locker facilities so avoid carrying large bags.
  • There are no restaurants or cafes inside the Colosseum.
Colosseum Plan Your Visit
  • Bulky rucksacks and bags aren't allowed inside the colosseum. Normal size handbags are not a problem and can be taken inside. 
  • Guests cannot eat inside the Colosseum.
  • Guests are allowed to take bottles inside the Colosseum, provided that they are emptied before going inside. You can fill water at the various water filling stations at the attraction.
  • Handheld cameras are not allowed inside the colosseum.
Colosseum tips
  • Bring a water bottle because it can get quite sunny during the day. There are numerous free drinking fountains located at the attraction, which you can use to fill up your bottle. 
  • Start exploring the Colosseum from the outside. Although you may be tempted to dash in directly, there are numerous sights and stories to learn about the outside of the Colosseum.
  • Visit the Belvedere for the most stunning views of the city. It is a great place to see Rome’s famous attractions and get a glimpse of the city’s layout. 
  • There will be a lot of walking on this tour, so be sure to wear some comfortable walking shoes.
  • Wear a hat and some sunscreen if you’re visiting in the summer.
Colosseum Plan Your Visit

Savor the view of the Colosseum from a nearby hotel. Here are some options.

  • Palazzo Manfredi: This is a 5-star hotel offering a premium experience. You can also catch views of the Colosseum from here.
  • Mercure Roma Center: This is a 4-star hotel that is located about half a kilometer from the Colosseum.
  • Hotel Colosseum: This is a more budget friendly option that is located about 750 meters from the Colosseum.



Book Colosseum Tickets & Tours

Entry to Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
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Flexible duration
Audio guide
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Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum Guided Tour
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Mobile ticket
2 hr. - 3 hr.
Guided tour
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Colosseum Arena Floor, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum Guided Tour
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2 hr. 30 min. - 3 hr.
Guided tour
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€64.90
Colosseum Underground, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum Guided Tour
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1 hr. 15 min. - 3 hr.
Guided tour
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Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum Small Group Tour
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3 hr.
Guided tour
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€67.20
Colosseum for Kids: Family-Friendly Guided Tour
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Mobile ticket
1 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
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Colosseum Express Tour
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1 hr. - 1 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
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Combo (Save 10%): Colosseum + Vatican Museums Guided Tour
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€117

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Colosseum

What are the Colosseum opening hours?

The Colosseum is open every day. From 27 March to 31 August 2023, the monument is open from 9 AM to 7:15 PM. From 1 to the 30 of September 2023, the Colosseum opens its gates at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM. In October 2023, it is accessible from 9 AM to 6:30 PM. From 31 October to 31 December 2023, winter hours apply, with the site being open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.

What is the best time to visit the Colosseum?

The best time to visit the Colosseum is during early morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds. Additionally, the Colosseum tends to be busiest on weekends, so a weekday visit may provide a quieter experience.

How long does it take to visit the Colosseum?

A typical visit to the Colosseum, including the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (which are included in the same ticket), takes around 2-3 hours. However, the time may vary depending on the level of detail one wishes to explore these sites.

Where is the Colosseum?

The Colosseum is located in the heart of Rome, Italy, near the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. Its exact address is Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.

What is the best way to get to the Colosseum?

The Colosseum is easily accessible by metro, bus, or on foot depending on where you are in the city.

How many entrances are there at the Colosseum?

Originally, the Colosseum had 80 entrances. However, today only three entrances are in use for visitors. The Sperone Valadier entrance, facing the forums, is for individual visitors, including those with pre-purchased tickets. The Group Gate, situated on the North side of the arena, and the Stern Gate, designed by the architect Stern, are reserved for groups, schools, or guests with an accredited guide.

Is the Colosseum wheelchair friendly?

The Colosseum is mostly wheelchair friendly. The underground area, however, is not accessible by wheelchair.

Can I buy food and drinks at the Colosseum?

It isn’t possible to purchase food and drinks inside the Colosseum. However, there are many restaurants and food stalls outside.

Why should I visit the Colosseum?

The Colosseum is one of the most famous landmarks in Rome and is the largest standing amphitheater in the world, despite being nearly 2000 years old. Visiting the Colosseum offers a unique opportunity to step back into history and witness the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Its spectacular architecture and intriguing gladiatorial past make it a must-visit site for culture and history enthusiasts.

Can I visit the Colosseum for free?

No, entry to the Colosseum is not free. You must purchase tickets to go inside.

How do I book tickets to visit the Colosseum?

Tickets to visit the Colosseum can be booked online. Tickets can also be purchased on site, but buying online in advance is recommended to skip the lines.

How much does it cost to visit the Colosseum?

The price of a standard ticket for the Colosseum, which also includes entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, starts at €19. There are discounts available for EU citizens aged 18-25, and entry is free for those under 18 or over 65. However, it's best to check our curated selection of experiences for the most current pricing and discount information.

Can I visit the Colosseum in a group?

Yes, you can absolutely visit the Colosseum in a group. In fact, there are dedicated entrances - the Group Gate and the Stern Gate - specifically for group visitors. Each group must consist of a minimum of 14 members and a maximum of 50 members, accompanied by a professional tour guide, so it is best that you opt for a guided tour option if you are visiting as a group.