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Expert Tips on Planning the Perfect Visit to the Roman Forum

Roman Forum | Visitor Information At A Glance

  • What are the Roman Forum opening hours?
    The Roman Forum hours are generally from 9 AM onwards, although the closing time depends on the time of year. Please check the timings while booking to get accurate information. Last entry is an hour before closing time.
  • Where is the Roman Forum located?
    The Roman Forum is located in the heart of Rome, Italy. The adddress is Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy. View on maps.
  • How many entrances does the Roman Forum have?
    There are two main entrances to the Roman Forum: Via die Fori Imperiali and Via della Salara Vecchia. Additionally, there is the Palatine Hill entrance Via die San Gregorio.
  • How many visitors does the Roman Forum see per year?
    Each year, the Roman Forum has approximately 3.5 millions visitors from all over the world to marvel at its monuments.

What are the Roman Forum Opening Hours?

27 March to 31 August 2023: 9 AM-7:15 PM.
1 October to 30 October: 9:30 AM-6:30 PM
31 October to 26 March: 9:30 AM-4:30 PM.

Last Entry: One hour before closing.

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

NOTE: According to the month and season of the year, the Roman Forum extends or reduces its opening hours. Check the updated timings before making your visit.

​Detailed Roman Forum Opening Hours

What's The Best time to Visit the Roman Forum?

The best time to visit the Roman Forum is on weekdays during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October). Weekdays generally offer fewer crowds compared to weekends, allowing for a more immersive experience. Arriving early in the morning when the gates open is ideal, as the site is quieter and the weather is pleasant.

During the high tourist season, from late spring to early autumn, weekends can get particularly busy, with larger crowds and longer wait times. For optimal conditions, consider visiting the Roman Forum on a weekday morning during the shoulder seasons. This timing strikes a balance between manageable crowds and comfortable weather, ensuring an enriching exploration of this ancient historical treasure.

Where is the Roman Forum Located?

Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.

​Find on maps.

The Roman Forum occupies a pivotal position in Rome, nestled between the Colosseum and Palatine Hill. Adjacent to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum extends along the valley between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills.

Closest Landmark: The Colosseum, 40m away.

Directions to the Roman Forum

Getting to the Roman Forum

By Public Transportation

By Metro: Board the B line Metro from Roma Termini, Rome’s central station. From there, ride 10 minutes and disembark at the Colosseo stop. From there, the Roman Forum is less than 5 minutes away by walk.

By Bus: From the bus station outside Roma Termini, take the 64 or 75 bus that’s heading towards. Poerio/Mirandola. Get off at the Fori Imperiali/Campidoglio stop and walk to the Roman Forum.

By Tram: Trams 3 and 8 stop at Piazza del Colosseo, which is the closest stop to the Roman Forum. From there, the attraction is just 2 minutes away by walk.

By Car

If you’re driving, take the route Via Cavour which is the shortest. If you do choose to arrive Via Nazionale, be prepared for the tolls you might encounter en route.

Parking Facilities

Once you arrive at the Roman Forum, there are convenient paid parking options available nearby:

Know Before You Go To the Roman Forum

There are two main entrances to the Roman Forum:

  • Via die Fori Imperiali: This is the main entrance along the Via die Fori Imperiali road between the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia. 
  • Via della Salara Vecchia: This is the other entrance that runs parallel to Via die Fori Imperiali. 
  • You can also enter the Roman Forum through Palatine Hill Via die San Gregorio, which is usually the least crowded entrance.  
  • Washrooms
  • Drinking fountains
  • Elevator

While there is an elevator at the entrance that takes you down to the ruins, only about 20% of the Roman Forum is wheelchair accessible upon descent. As it is an ancient structure, many places have large gaps between the stones, making it difficult for wheels to pass over. Hence, the Roman Forum is not the most wheelchair-friendly tourist destination in Rome.

  • If you are travelling with babies, it is best to carry them on a sling or carrier as stroller rides can get bumpy due to the uneven terrain.
  • With young children, the Forum is best visited first thing in the morning or just before closing time (especially in summer), when the temperatures are likely to be more pleasant.
  • Do carry a water bottle and some snacks are there are no eateries inside the Roman Forum.
  • Children are also encouraged to use sun block, wear a hat and comfortable shoes.
  • Booking online is highly recommended as you can grab the best deals.
  • Arriving at the Roman Forum via the Palatine Hill entrance can help you beat some of the entry traffic.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to make your experience hassle-free and enjoyable.
  • Opt for guided tours to understand the attraction better and grasp its significance in full. In summer, carry sunscreen and a hat.
  • Buy combo tickets that also grant you access to the Palatine Hill and the Colosseum.
  • While clicking pictures inside the Roman Forum is allowed, tripods are not permitted for use inside the ruins.
  • Carry a water bottle and some light snacks to keep your energy up, especially if you’re visiting in summer. However, dispose your trash appropriately as littering will not be tolerated.
  • Trattoria Luzzi: This restaurant is a good option to enjoy pizza and Italian fare. Trattoria Luzzi is open every day from 12 PM to 12 AM. It is just a 7-minute walk away from the Roman Forum.
  • La Taverna dei Quaranta: To tuck into hearty Roman fare and authentic pizzas, look no further than this La Taverna dei Quaranta. This restaurant is 5 minutes by walk from the Roman Forum.
  • TreCaffe Bistro: Slightly further away and a 16 minute walk from the Forum is the charming cafe that’s perfect for your caffeine fix.

Luxury

Palazzo Montemartini, 2.2 km away from the Roman Forum

Mid-range

​Hotel Capo d’Africa, 550m away from the Roman Forum by walk

Budget

Hotel Centro Cavour, 600m from the attraction on foot

  • Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore: This magnificent basilica showcases intricate mosaics and Byzantine art.
  • Jewish Ghetto: One of the free things you can do in Rome, visit the charming district with Jewish heritage. It features traditional eateries, synagogues, and a glimpse into Rome's multicultural history.
  • Circus Maximus: Ancient chariot racing stadium, Circus Maximus offers a vast open space to imagine ancient spectacles and enjoy a leisurely stroll.
  • Arch of Constantine: Monumental triumphal arch commemorating Emperor Constantine's victory, adorned with intricate reliefs, a testament to Roman artistry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum generally opens around 9 AM and closes by 7:15 PM. But these timings can vary according to the time of year. Check here for detailed information on Roman Forum hours.

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