Skip the Lines at Colosseum

How long are the queues at the Colosseum entrance?

With over 7 million visitors annually, the Colosseum sees some of the longest queues in Rome. During peak season, expect to wait between 1 to 3 hours—often longer on weekends and holidays. Lines regularly stretch around the outer walls, with little to no shade during the hotter months.

Peak season: April – October
Peak hours: 9am – 12 noon

Even early mornings and late afternoons can have notable wait times. To skip the long lines and make the most of your visit, we strongly recommend booking a skip-the-line ticket or guided tour.

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)

Longest queues

Location: South side of the Colosseum, next to the Arch of Constantine.
Who is it for: Individual visitors with general admission, skip-the-line, or Roma Pass tickets
Average wait time: 45 minutes or more during peak season (1.5 -2 hours)

Tip: Arrive 30–35 minutes before your time slot, or early morning to avoid long queues.

Group Gate

Moderate wait times

Location: Just left to the main entrance, when facing from the Arch of Constantine, near the tree cluster.
Who is it for: Pre-booked guided groups (14–50 people)
Average wait time: 15–20 minutes, depending on the number of scheduled groups.

Tip: Confirm your tour meeting point and arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time.

Stern Entrance

Previously the fastest, now limited use

Location: Located on the northern side of the Colosseum, accessed internally, near Via dei Fori Imperiali.
Who is it for: Currently restricted to school groups and special access tours.
Average wait time: 10–15 minutes

Tip: If your ticket includes arena access, you will now enter through the main entrance and walk to the Stern Gate from inside.

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 can take anywhere from 10–20 minutes with skip-the-line tickets and up to 1.5 hours during peak times. Visiting early morning or late afternoon can help reduce wait times.

How to bypass the long lines at the Colosseum?

Colosseum Skip the Line Tickets - online booking

1. Book tickets online & in advance

Booking your Colosseum tickets online and ahead of time helps you avoid the notoriously long ticket office lines. You’ll go directly to the security check instead—saving time and hassle.

💡 Pro tip: All visitors must pass through security, but this line moves faster than the ticket queue. Be sure to arrive a bit early for smooth entry.

Book your Colosseum access

Colosseum Skip the Line Tickets - guided tour

2. Opt for guided tours

Opting for a guided tour grants you fast-track entry and expert insights into the history of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. It’s one of the best ways to explore the archaeological park without getting caught in long entry lines.

While guided tours may cost more, they offer great value—especially during peak months when regular skip-the-line tickets can sell out.

Book Colosseum guided tours

3. Try hosted entry services

Hosted entry offers a hassle-free experience. A coordinator meets you near the entrance, helps you with your ticket, and guides you to the priority access line. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or anyone looking for a smooth, stress-free start.

Book hosted entry to Colosseum

Colosseum Skip the Line Tickets - early hours

4. Visit during early hours

Getting to the Colosseum right when it opens is one of the easiest ways to beat the crowd. Mornings tend to be calmer, with quicker entry and fewer people inside—making for a more relaxed visit.

💡 Pro tip: Morning light also makes for great photos, especially with fewer people in the background!

Check Colosseum opening hours

5. 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. Palatine Hill typically has the shortest entry line, and by the time you reach the Colosseum, you’ll be entering from the Roman Forum side—where queues are often shorter.

6. Buy a city pass

Rome passes like the Roma Pass include skip-the-line access to major landmarks, including the Colosseum. These passes often come with extra perks such as discounts and free public transport—perfect for sightseeing across the city without waiting in line at every stop.

Book Colosseum skip-the-line tickets

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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.