Plan your 2025 Colosseum visit at dusk for the best experience. The spectacular lighting and cooler air make it perfect for exploring this historic landmark. With more visitors expected, plan ahead for the Jubilee Year or your visit. Buying tickets is easier now with the Parco Colosseo website launched in May 2024.

The website is clear easy to use and lets you buy tickets directly. Be sure to check out the detailed instructions in the getting tickets section so you're ready to go. Choose a guided tour for the best experience or opt for a self-guided ticket. For more exploration, book a tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, often through private companies. Also avoid secondary ticketing websites unless they are reputable.

We suggest using services like Viator or Get Your Guide which are independent trustworthy and known for having good reputations. With a little planning your trip to the Roman Colosseum will be an enjoyable visit. Remember, preparation is key for a smooth and unforgettable visit.

Why should I visit the Colosseum in Rome?

Rome's Colosseum is world-famous—and for good reason. It's one of the Seven Wonders, like the Great Wall and Christ the Redeemer. Built nearly 2000 years ago, it's still the largest amphitheater, unmatched in size. Surviving fires, earthquakes, war, and neglect, it remains a symbol of the Roman Empire's strength. Your visit includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, offering a glimpse of early Roman life. The ticket includes admittance to these sites making it a great bang for your buck. As you wander you’ll be stepping through locations where daily activities like public speeches political discussions and shopping took place.

The Colosseum's story includes gladiator fights and its role in the anti-capital punishment movement. It’s a place full of surprises and layers of history that truly bring Rome to life.

Getting tickets to the Colosseum in Rome

To skip long lines, buy your timed ticket in advance on the Parco Archeologico de Colosseo website. Select from various tickets, including the €26 guided tour with access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

For a personalized experience, choose the Full Experience tour, though it's pricier and offers restricted access. The Individual ticket offers self-guided access and an audio tour via the My Colosseum app.

The 24-Hour Arena Only ticket offers limited Arena floor time and access to the Imperial Fora and SUPER sites. For families, it's a quick and easy option, with Night Tours available in summer.

The Colosseum is open year-round, with last winter admission at 3:30 pm, and it's closed on January 1st and December 25th. Italy's culture ministry requires valid ID for entry, similar to football matches, so don't forget yours.

Why take a guided tour of the Colosseum?

Taking a guided tour of the Colosseum can make a huge difference in your experience. Skip the line to avoid queues and enjoy the site with fewer people. Tickets must be purchased in advance, but a tour operator handles everything, letting you enjoy the visit.

Without a guide, the site can feel dry and hard to fully appreciate due to limited signage. A tour guide offers insights into the Colosseum's history, discoveries, and time periods you might miss. Our Viator guide for example was an archeological master's degree student who provided interesting facts and answered all our questions. Plus they even shared fun stories like the one about the cat the unofficial mascot of the Colosseum which made the experience more memorable.

Whether you’re using a free official app like My Colosseum or the Rick Steves Audio Europe App a guided tour gives you the best chance to learn and experience everything the Colosseum has to offer.

Getting to the Colosseum by Metro, Bus and Tram

To reach the Colosseum in Rome it's easy and quick. The Colosseum is located about 1 km southeast of the historic center of Rome making it very accessible. The fastest way is by metro taking line B to Colosseo station which drops you right in front of the amphitheater. If you're coming from Roma Termini it's only a short 2 to 4 minutes ride. If you prefer taking a bus lines 38 and 75 will bring you from the northern regions of Rome and buses 175 and 271 from the south.

You'll find the bus stop at Piazza del Colosseo directly in front of the entrance. Another option is to take a tram; line 3 or 8 will stop at Piazza del Colosseo tram stop. All public transportation in Rome is run by ATAC, where you can use a single ticket for metro trains trams, buses, and light rail. We found the multi-day pass to be the most convenient option.

You can purchase your ticket at tobacco stores (called tabacchi) marked with a "T" sign or use the new Tap-&-Go system for quick payments with your credit, debit card, Apple Pay, or G-Pay. Since January 2023, buses and trams have also been included in the Tap&Go system for added convenience.

Essential Visitor Tips for the Roman Colosseum

When planning your visit to the Roman Colosseum it’s important to book early as tickets sell out quickly due to the high demand. You can either buy them directly on the Parco Colosseo website or book a tour in advance to ensure you get the best experience. Try to visit during off times to avoid the crowded conditions. The opening times can vary but generally it's best to arrive by 8 or 9am. If you're flexible with your travel dates visiting during the off-season will provide a more pleasant experience as summer can be both a busy tourist season and incredibly hot.

Remember the Colosseum is open year-round except for January 1 and December 25 but last admission may be as early as 3:30pm during winter so be sure to check the website beforehand. If you're planning to capture the perfect moment for photographing the Roman Colosseum dusk is an excellent time especially around the exterior. Keep in mind that there’s only one restroom facility near the ticket booths so use it before your guided tour begins.

Also remember that bags, backpacks, and rolling bags are not allowed but small items like a purse are fine. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the steep steps in both the Colosseum and the Roman Forum can be a bit tricky.

Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and bring a hat to protect yourself from the strong sun. While exploring be sure to stay hydrated as there's no roof over the Colosseum. You can bring an empty bottle and fill it at the many nasoni fountains. Finally while you can bring snacks there are no places to sit and dine inside. Once you're done avoid the tourist traps nearby for lunch or dinner as they can be expensive and offer disappointing food. For more tips on traveling in Italy check out our blog post.

Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest

When you visit the Colosseum there's much more to see in the area. Just a short walk away is the Rome Forum and Palatine Hill, both rich with history. For something unique head to the Great War Memorial on Capitoline Hill, where the Vittoriano a massive national monument honors Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy.

The giant statue of Emmanuel on horseback is impossible to miss and the marble structure is often called a “wedding cake” or “typewriter” due to its design. For panoramic views of Rome take the lift to the Panoramic Terrace on top for stunning views of the Colosseum and beyond. If you’re seeking a peaceful spot, visit the Rome Rose Garden (Roseto Comunale) nearby where you can admire over 1,100 varieties of roses from April to June.

If you still crave more history, check out Circus Maximus, once used for chariot races, or stroll through Trastevere, a charming neighborhood known for its cozy restaurants and quiet vibe along the Tiber River. A 15-minute walk from the Rose Garden or 30 minutes from the Colosseum will take you there.

Lastly, let’s show the Colosseum some love

The Colosseum, once abandoned after the fall of the Roman Empire, has faced many challenges over the centuries, including neglect and being used by powerful Romans as a quarry for stones and precious metals. The travertine stone from the Colosseum even ended up in landmarks like Palazzo Barberini, Basilica of Sant’Agostino and St. Peter’s Basilica. After World War II, it became a seedy neighborhood and a place for illegal transactions, with markings on the walls where sellers advertised their goods.

Despite all this, the Colosseum was only designated a World Heritage Site in 1980 and wasn't listed among the New Seven Wonders of the World until 2007. So, let’s remember to treat this historical treasure with the love and consideration it deserves, as it has witnessed so much and still has a lot to tell us.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit the Colosseum?

The best time to visit the Colosseum is at dusk when the lighting is spectacular, and the air is cooler. It’s a great time for both photography and exploration.

How can I buy tickets for the Colosseum in advance?

You can purchase tickets through the Parco Colosseo website. It offers an easy-to-use platform for buying tickets and booking tours directly.

Should I book a guided tour of the Colosseum?

Yes, a guided tour enhances your experience by providing valuable historical insights. A skip-the-line feature lets you avoid waiting, making your visit smoother.

How do I get to the Colosseum using public transport?

You can reach the Colosseum via metro, bus, or tram. The Colosseo station (Line B) is the most convenient for metro access.

What should I bring to the Colosseum for a comfortable visit?

Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Remember, bags larger than a purse aren’t allowed, and you can bring an empty bottle to fill at nasoni fountains.

Conclusion

When visiting the Roman Colosseum in 2025, proper planning is key to a smooth and memorable experience. Remember to buy your tickets ahead of time, consider taking a guided tour, and explore the nearby attractions to make the most of your visit. Don’t forget to show the Colosseum some respect for its fascinating and sometimes tumultuous history.