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6 sure-fire ways to beat the crowds at Colosseum

Skip the Line Tours

How long are the queues at the Colosseum?

One of the world's most iconic and beloved historical sites, the Colosseum draws millions of visitors annually. Its immense popularity, however, translates into wait times that can stretch up to 1-3 hours, especially during peak tourist season. Enduring the sweltering heat while standing in these long lines is hardly what Roman holiday dreams are made of. But fret not! With a bit of strategic planning, you can immerse yourself in Rome's magnificent past without wasting precious time in lines.

Know your queue at the Colosseum entrances

Colosseum has three entrances, and your wait times and vary greatly based on which one you choose.

Sperone Valadier (Main Entrance)

This entrance, dedicated to individual visitors, frequently has queues of around 45 minutes. This is the entrance that has the longest queues.

Group Gate

Reserved for guided groups of 14-50 people, queues at this entrance typically last 15-20 minutes. This can vary depending on how many groups are at the venue.

Stern Entrance

Offering the quickest entry, this entrance serves guided tour groups and school groups. With an average wait time of 10-15 minutes, this is the entrance that has the shortest lines.

Note: The Colosseum security line

Part of the line at the Colosseum is for the compulsory security check, which involves passing through a metal detector. This queue generally takes 5-10 minutes.

How to bypass the long lines at the Colosseum?

Colosseum Skip the Line Tickets - online booking

1. Book tickets online & in advance

Pre-purchasing tickets to the Colosseum is a smart move. The lines tend to be longer because people end up buying their tickets at the venue. By purchasing your tickets online, you can not only guarantee entry on your desired date but also skip all the chaos and head directly to the security line and have a hassle-free experience.

Book Colosseum tours

Colosseum Skip the Line Tickets - early hours

2. Visit during early hours

The time of your visit plays a very important role in the amount of crowd you would experience at the Colosseum. We recommend you visit the Colosseum during the early hours of the morning, right when the attraction opens as it is the best time to avoid crowds and have a quick entry. You will also be able to explore the attraction more peacefully.

Colosseum opening hours

Colosseum Skip the Line Tickets - guided tour

3. Opt for guided tours

Guided tours allow you to gain a more in-depth understanding of the historical landmark with the help of expert guides along with fast-track entry. While guided tours can come at a higher cost, they may be the sole option during peak seasons since skip-the-line tickets frequently sell out due to high demand.

Book Colosseum guided tours

4. Choose the right route

If you plan to visit all three sites of the Archaeological Park of the Colosseum, then start your trip at Palatine Hill, followed by the Roman Forum, and end your trip at the Colosseum. This helps in two ways: one, the entry line at the Palatine Hill is the shortest, allowing you to save time at the start of your visit, and two, you can enter the Colosseum from the entrance located near the Roman Forum exit, which also sees shorter lines.

5. Book tickets from the official Colosseum website

A smart way to avoid long lines is by purchasing Colosseum skip-the-line tickets from the official site. This allows you to have a quick entry through the main gate, helping you save a lot of time and avoid large crowds. This way, you get to spend more time exploring the ancient amphitheater as well as the various other attractions in Rome.

6. Buy a city pass

Consider investing in a city pass such as the Roma Pass, which offers perks like priority access and dedicated entrances. With a city pass, you can skip regular lines, greatly reducing wait times while enjoying a wide array of attractions. Moreover, the pass unlocks discounts at multiple sites throughout Rome and even includes access to the city's public transportation system, so you don't have to worry about finding your way around.

Frequently asked questions about skipping the lines at the Colosseum

Can I skip the line at the Colosseum?

Yes, by booking skip-the-line tickets online, you can bypass the long queues at the Colosseum. You have three ways to experience this Roman marvel: buying tickets on the day of your visit, which may involve a waiting time of up to 45 minutes or more; using advance purchased tickets that grant entry within a specific time slot; or opting for a guided tour. Booking your experience ahead of time will help you skip the ticketing lines and make a beeline for the security check line, which can be cleared in 5-10 minutes.

What is the waiting time to get into the Colosseum?

The average waiting time to get into the Colosseum could be anywhere between half an hour to an hour. Booking Colosseum tickets will allow you the chance to skip the lines and directly enter the historical site.

Can I choose a specific time slot when purchasing tickets to the Colosseum?

Yes, when you purchase tickets for the Colosseum online, you can select a specific time slot. This helps you plan your day and guarantees a smooth entry without long waits. Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled time to avoid potential delays.

Can I still skip the line if I buy tickets on the day of my visit?

While it's possible to buy tickets on-site, there's a high chance of encountering long queues. Pre-purchased timed tickets are highly recommended to avoid waiting, especially during peak season (June to August).

How much time should I allocate for my Colosseum visit?

A typical visit takes 1-2 hours, but it can vary depending on your pace and interest level. If you opt for a guided tour, factor in the tour duration. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before your designated entry time (if applicable) to account for security checks and potential queues.