The Colosseum in Rome is best known for being a grand amphitheater that was the site of gladiatorial contests and public spectacles in ancient Rome. Constructed between AD 70 and 80, it could accommodate up to 50,000 spectators, showcasing the might and engineering prowess of the Roman Empire. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of Rome’s imperial past and is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors eager to witness the remnants of its architectural grandeur and reflect on its historical significance.
Exclusive Colosseum Arena, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum Tour
Imagine standing right on the Colosseum’s arena floor—the very spot where gladiators once fought and legends were made. This isn’t just a tour; it’s your front-row ticket to ancient history. Our local guide, who really knows their stuff, will lead you through the Colosseum, sharing stories that make each stone come alive. You’ll climb up to the first and second levels for jaw-dropping views, and just when you think it can’t get better, we’ll take you to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve actually lived a bit of Rome’s past. It’s an experience you won’t forget!
Our Colosseum Arena Tour includes:
- Special access to the Colosseum’s Arena floor
- Access to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum
- Expert and Passionate Professional Tour Guide
- Exclusive 3D digital images of the Ancient sites via the Crown Tours app
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Duration2.5 to 3-hour experience
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AudioHeadsets for clear audio throughout the tour
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About the tourOffered in English, Spanish, Italian, German and French
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Group SizeMaximum group size of 25 people
What You Will See
With expert storytelling and exclusive access, experience the grandeur of Rome’s history like never before.Here are some of the sites you’ll see on this tour
About Our
Knowledgeable Tour Guides
- Local guides with expert knowledge of history and culture
- Engaging storytelling that makes history come alive
- Fluent in multiple languages for a seamless experience
- Passionate about providing exceptional service on every tour
- Personalization of tours to tailor to the interests, pace and preferences of the group
- An interactive approach that encourages participation and creates a memorable, hands-on experience
- Ensuring cultural sensitivity and respect of important World Heritage sites
GREAT FOR THESE TRAVELERS
Whether you’re checking off a must-see from your bucket list, diving deep into history or seeking to make the most of every moment, this tour is designed with you in mind.
Reviews
What Our Customers Say
Authentic stories, expertly guided by Europe’s most trusted tour operator.
As a leading tour operator in Europe, our commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in everything we do, from selecting passionate guides to crafting detailed itineraries that showcase the best of each destination. We make booking straightforward and direct, ensuring you get great value and a seamless experience, guaranteed. At Crown Tours, we don’t just visit places — we tell stories, sharing the rich histories and cultures along the way. Join us to Explore, Discover, and Dream.
About the Trip
FAQs
Visiting the Colosseum offers different options, but the best way to experience this iconic landmark is through a guided tour. A knowledgeable guide can provide in-depth insights into the history, architecture and cultural significance of the arena, enriching your understanding beyond what is available in standard tourist brochures
When planning a visit to the Colosseum, the amount of time to allocate depends on your level of interest and the depth of exploration you desire. For most visitors, dedicating 2.5-3 hours is sufficient to appreciate the main highlights. However, if you are a history enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, you might consider extending your visit to a full day.
The Colosseum is approximately 30 kilometers (about 18.6 miles) from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, commonly known as Fiumicino Airport, in Rome. Depending on traffic and the mode of transportation chosen, the journey can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.
Inside the Colosseum, there are several points of interest that’ll captivate visitors, the arena floor is certainly one of them. It’s the very spot where gladiators fought, making it a key location for understanding the dramatic spectacles that defined Roman entertainment. Standing on the arena floor offers visitors a unique vantage point to appreciate the scale and architecture of the Colosseum, helping them visualize the intensity of the events that once took place. Is it really a surprise these tours sell out in advance?
Yes, audio guides are available at the Colosseum, but we highly recommend choosing our tour which includes a live guide. This option offers expert storytelling and allows for interaction, so you can ask questions and gain deeper insights into the history of the site.
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, you can opt for the Entrance + Audioguide package, which is bookable here.
Absolutely! The Colosseum can be a fun and exciting experience for kids. Kids love stories, and the Colosseum is filled with tales of gladiators, wild animals, and epic battles, which are sure to capture their imaginations. Our guides are pro’s at presenting the history of the site in a fun and accessible way. Making tours enjoyable for the whole family.
The Colosseum is open most Sundays, allowing visitors to explore its magnificent structure and rich history. However, please note that the first Sunday of each month offers free entrance to the Colosseum, which may result in larger crowds. While the main areas, including the arena floor and upper tiers, are usually accessible, it’s a good idea to check for any special events or maintenance that might affect specific facilities on your planned visit. We recommend booking tickets in advance to ensure a smooth experience.
Yes, photography is allowed inside the Colosseum! While you can capture the stunning architecture and rich history, please remember that tripods and large video equipment are not permitted. Some of the best spots for photos include the upper tier of the Colosseum, where you can get panoramic views of the amphitheater, and the beautiful Farnese Gardens, which offer lovely landscapes and views of the Roman Forum. Additionally, the small park at the top of Largo Gaetana Agnesi provides a picturesque setting for photos before or after your visit. So, be sure to bring your camera and make the most of these fantastic locations!
Yes, you can bring bags into the Colosseum, but there are some restrictions. Large backpacks, luggage, and bulky items are not allowed. It’s best to bring a small bag or backpack for personal items. Additionally, there may be a security check at the entrance, so plan to allow some extra time for this process. For a more comfortable visit, consider leaving larger bags at your accommodation or using a nearby luggage storage service.
As of May 2024, the Colosseum requires all tickets to be nominative, meaning names must be assigned at least three days in advance. This means that purchasing same-day tickets at the venue can result in long lines and no guarantee of entry. To cut out the hassle and wait time, we highly recommend booking your colosseum experience in advance guaranteeing your visit and ensuring a smoother experience.
Yes, there are restrictions on bringing food and drinks into the Colosseum. While small snacks and water in sealed containers are typically allowed, larger meals, picnics, and alcoholic beverages are not permitted. To ensure a comfortable visit, it’s best to enjoy your food and drinks outside the Colosseum before or after your tour. Better yet, take advantage of your local guide’s knowledge and ask for food recommendations nearby!
Start by checking your confirmation voucher, which contains specific details about the meeting point and any additional instructions. It’s advisable to arrive at least 15-30 minutes early to give yourself ample time to locate your guide. If you have difficulties finding the meeting point on the day of the tour, don’t hesitate to use the dedicated tour group chat, where our team will be ready to assist you. This way, you can ensure a smooth start to your experience!
They sure are! At Crown Tours, we’ve made it our mission to design and curate the best experiences for our guests. This means bringing you the history of each site in your preferred language. By providing guided tours in English, French, Italian, Spanish, and German, we ensure that you can fully engage with the rich narratives and cultural significance of the sites you visit. Our expert guides are dedicated to delivering insightful and personalized experiences, allowing you to connect more deeply with the history and stories that shape each destination.
For the Colosseum Exclusive Arena Tour, including Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, we recommend wearing breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking and exploring for an extended period. Depending on the season, consider bringing sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, as well as rain gear if there’s a chance of showers. Dressing in layers can also be a good idea, as temperatures may vary throughout the day. This way, you’ll be prepared for whatever the weather brings while enjoying your tour!
Yes, there are additional security checks before entry to the Colosseum. The security process includes airport-style checks where bags will be inspected for prohibited items such as weapons, glass, sharp objects, food, and alcoholic drinks. There will also be an ID check, so it’s imperative to bring your official ID with you. Failure to present valid identification may result in denial of entry, so please ensure that all minors and adults in your group are correctly indicated. Being prepared for these checks will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
It’s uncommon for events or religious ceremonies to cause closures, so you can generally expect access to the Colosseum and surrounding attractions year-round. Rest assured—at Crown Tours, we regularly update our calendars with live availability, allowing you to book with confidence. If an unexpected closure occurs, we’ll promptly reach out with updates, options, and alternatives as needed.
Our weather policy states that tours will continue rain or shine. Our guides are prepared to ensure you have an enjoyable experience, no matter the conditions. Just dress appropriately, and enjoy your adventure!
The group tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with limited mobility due to the uneven terrain of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. While the Colosseum does have an elevator to assist guests with low mobility, using it may cause delays for the group tour since it’s not on the main route. It’s worth noting that disabled visitors are entitled to free entrance at all three sites. If you’re determined to explore with an expert storyteller, consider a private tour; this way, the guide can provide more assistance and adjust the route to meet your needs.
Generally speaking, this tour offers between 2.5 and 3 hours of in-depth exploration and expert storytelling. During the months of July and August, the tour duration is shortened to 2 to 2.5 hours to ensure a comfortable experience in the summer heat. Regardless of the season, you can look forward to an engaging and informative journey through the history of these remarkable sites.
Yes, it is highly advisable to book this tour in advance. Due to its popularity and the unique opportunity to explore iconic areas of the Colosseum with an engaging expert storyteller, this tour often reaches capacity quickly. The attraction also requires all guest names to be submitted at least 3 days in advance for guided tours.
This is your chance to unlock access to key areas of the Colosseum, including the Arena Stage, the Colosseum Museum, and both Tier 1 and Tier 2 levels. Additionally, the tour provides access to the ancient sites of Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the rich history of these iconic locations.
At Crown Tours, we believe in flexibility. Guests may cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time and will receive a refund of 75% of the booking price. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be eligible for a refund. Alternatively, guests may choose to reschedule their tour up to 24 hours before the start time for a small rescheduling fee, subject to availability.
Itenerary
We look forward to hosting you on this Colosseum Arena Tour, guiding you through some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. This tour is 2.5-3 hours and includes approximately 2.5 kilometers/1.25 miles of walking. Here’s everything you need to know!
Meet at Crown Tour Office
Join your guide at the Crown Tour Office on Via della Polveriera 8. Your guide will be in Crown Tours purple. Please arrive 30 minutes in advance of your tour start time.
The Colosseum
Step into the grandeur of the Colosseum, a timeless symbol of ancient Rome. Admire this iconic structure with its 80 arches and 108 columns.
The Arena Floor
Walk across the arena floor, where gladiators faced their fate. Imagine the cheers of the crowd as you stand in the very spot where history was made.
The Colosseum's Upper Levels
Ascend to the upper levels for breathtaking views of the ancient structure. From here, appreciate the scale and beauty of this iconic monument, once filled with thousands of spectators.
The Palatine Hill
Explore the enchanting Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s oldest areas. Discover the grandeur of imperial palaces and enjoy stunning views of the Ancient city.
The Roman Forum
Wander through the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome. Uncover the ruins of temples and marketplaces, revealing the stories of political life and social interaction in a vibrant society.
Special Notes:
All tickets to the Colosseum are subject to the name listed, please ensure all guest names are entered correctly when booking.
This experience guarantees a guided tour of all 3 sites, however, the order of the visit may vary due to ticketing arrangements at the Colosseum.
What to wear: We recommend wearing breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes. Consider wearing sun protection and rain gear based on the season..
What to bring: It is imperative to bring your official ID. Failure to do so may result in denial of entry. Please ensure that minors and adults are indicated correctly.
Bag restrictions: Please note there are no storage facilities at the monument, no large backpacks or luggage are allowed inside.
Mobility restrictions: This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility restrictions due to the uneven terrain.
Photography restrictions: Photography is allowed but tripods and large video equipment are prohibited.
Cancelation policy: Guests may cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time and will receive a refund of 75% of the booking price. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be eligible for a refund. Alternatively, guests may choose to reschedule their tour within this time frame for a small rescheduling fee, subject to availability.