Published on 6 February 2025 Last updated on 30 September 2026
The Colosseum in Rome is an impressive structure that has been an important part of the city’s skyline for almost 2,000 years. It is no surprise that it is one of the most visited attractions in Rome. But is visiting the Colosseum during your city trip to Rome really as impressive as people often say?
In this blog, I’ll tell you what to expect when visiting the Colosseum and whether I think it is worth a visit. You’ll also find practical information about tickets, opening hours, and the best time to visit the Colosseum.
What is the Colosseum in Rome?
The Colosseum in Rome is a former amphitheatre from Roman times. It was built to entertain the inhabitants of Rome with gladiator fights, hunts of wild animals, and other spectacles. Public executions also took place here. It is believed that over the centuries, hundreds of thousands of people and millions of animals lost their lives in this arena.
Is a visit to the Colosseum in Rome worth it?
I have visited Rome more than ten times over the past decade, and during that time I have also visited the Colosseum several times. On my first visit, I wanted to visit the Colosseum spontaneously, but the long queue at the ticket offices meant that I could not buy a ticket in time. As a result, I was unable to see the inside of the Colosseum on that trip.
On later visits, I always bought my tickets in advance. I usually choose an audio ticket, as it allows me to explore the Colosseum at my own pace, but I have also booked a guided tour a few times. Personally, I think a tour is well worth it if you want to learn more about the history of the building, the gladiator fights and its architecture. If you mainly want to admire the monument and take some great photos, an audio ticket is often more than enough.
I have visited the Colosseum at different times of the day, and I recommend going as early as possible, shortly after opening. This gives you plenty of time to explore the building and take photos or videos. If you visit later in the day, it can be so crowded that you are almost walking at a snail’s pace through the Colosseum, with hardly any space to properly look around or take photos.
I also often combine a visit to the Colosseum with the Roman Forum. During my most recent visit, in June 2025, I had bought my tickets in advance and went to the Colosseum first. Even though I also had a ticket for the Roman Forum, I still had to wait in a long queue there. In summer, the Roman Forum can also become very hot, so it is a good idea to bring plenty of water.
A useful tip: in the square between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, you will find water fountains where you can refill your water bottle for free with still or sparkling water. There are also drinking fountains inside the Roman Forum. It is also a good idea to apply sunscreen and wear a cap or hat, as there is very little shade. I have ended up getting quite badly sunburned here myself.
Whether a visit to the Colosseum is worth it for you depends on your interests and what you want to see. Personally, I think it is absolutely worth visiting. It gives you an impressive insight into Roman history, and you can really get a sense of what life might have been like here in the past. However, if you do not enjoy large crowds or have little interest in history, visiting the inside may not be for you. In that case, it is still impressive to admire the Colosseum from the outside.
These are the most popular tickets and tours for visiting the Colosseum in Rome
During a visit to the Colosseum in Rome, you walk through different parts of the enormous structure. Each section shows you in a different way how grand and impressive this amphitheatre once was.
1. The facade of the Colosseum
The Colosseum consists of four levels. The first three levels can be recognized by the rows of arches with half-columns. What makes this so special is that each level is executed in a different architectural style: Doric at the bottom, Ionic above it, and Corinthian on the third level. This way, you can see different styles of Roman architecture in a single building.
2. The stands of the Colosseum
The stands of the Colosseum in Rome had space for enormous numbers of spectators. Around 50,000 people could sit and another approximately 25,000 visitors could stand. When you walk around here now, it is almost impossible to imagine how many people used to come here at the same time to watch the fights and games.
3.The belvedere in the Coliseum
The belvedere in the Colosseum is located on the third and fourth levels. From here, you look out over the entire arena and really get a sense of how large this structure is. The view immediately shows how impressive the Colosseum must have been when it was still in use. This is also one of the most beautiful spots to take photos during your visit.
4. The Arena floor in the in the Coliseum
The arena forms the heart of the Colosseum. In the past, there was a wooden floor here covered with sand. That sand helped gladiators avoid slipping and absorbed the blood shed during the fights. Around the arena stood a wall of about four meters high, intended to protect the audience. Nowadays, this part of the Colosseum is only accessible to visitors who book a guided tour; with a standard admission ticket, you cannot enter the arena.
5. The Hypogeum in the Colosseum
Beneath the arena lies the hypogeum: a network of underground corridors and rooms. In the past, sets, costumes, and weapons were prepared here, and gladiators and animals waited until the moment they had to enter the arena. The hypogeum offers a special glimpse into what went on behind the scenes during the games. This part of the Colosseum can nowadays only be visited with a guided tour; with a standard admission ticket, you cannot enter this area.
What is the best time to visit the Colosseum in Rome?
The Colosseum is one of the most visited places in Rome. Those who arrive without reserving in advance can often expect long waiting times. The quietest times to visit the Colosseum are early in the morning or later in the day. Especially in summer, it can be not only very busy around midday, but also quite hot.
Opening hours of the Colosseum in Rome
Below you can find the official opening hours of the Colosseum in Rome. The times are seasonal and are adjusted to the length of the day and the tourist season.
Opening hours year-round The Colosseum opens daily at 8:30 AM. The closing time varies by season and usually falls between 4:30 PM and 7:15 PM. Last entry is generally about one hour before closing time.
Closed days The Colosseum is closed on January 1 and December 25.
Helpful tip for your planning Because times can change by season (and may sometimes differ on holidays or during special events), it’s smart to check the current opening hours at the official ticket office shortly before your visit.
How long do you need for a visit to the Colosseum?
How much time you need for a visit to the Colosseum depends on how thoroughly you want to explore the monument. On average, allow about one and a half to three hours for the Colosseum itself.
If you mainly stroll around and view the main areas, you will often be done within one and a half to two hours. If you take your time to see everything properly, take photos, and possibly join a guided tour, you can easily spend longer here.
If you combine your visit with the Forum Romanum and the Palatine Hill, it’s wise to set aside half a day to a full day. That way, you won’t have to rush and can explore everything at a relaxed pace.
Do I need to make a reservation to visit the Colosseum in Rome?
The Colosseum is one of the most popular attractions in Rome. If you arrive without a reservation, you may have to wait in line for a long time, sometimes even for hours. By planning your visit in advance and booking your ticket ahead of time, you can avoid unnecessary waiting and have more time to explore the city. This is especially important to keep in mind during the high season.
Tickets for a visit to the Colosseum in Rome
There are several ways to visit the Colosseum, depending on how much time you have and how extensively you want to explore the monument.
1. Admission ticket with audio guide
With an entrance ticket that includes an audio guide, you can explore the Colosseum at your own pace. You’ll have access to the main areas of the monument, except for the arena and the underground section. The audio guide is available in several languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Chinese. This is a good option if you prefer to explore independently while still learning more about the history and background of the Colosseum.
Want to visit the Colosseum with an audio guide? Below, you can check the available tickets. Choose your preferred date and see which time slots are available.
With a guided tour of the Colosseum, you’ll get more context about what you’re seeing. A guide will tell you about the history of the building, the gladiator fights, and its architecture, giving you a better understanding of the Colosseum than you might get from exploring it on your own.
Want to visit the Colosseum with a guided tour? Below, you can check the available tickets. Choose your preferred date and see which time slots are available.
The Colosseum is located in the historic center of Rome, on Piazza del Colosseo. From here, you can easily walk to other well-known places such as the Forum Romanum and the Palatine Hill.
How do you get to the Colosseum in Rome?
The Colosseum is easy to reach by public transport. By bus, tram, or metro, you’ll be almost right at the entrance.
Finally, here are a few practical tips that are useful to know before visiting the Colosseum:
1. Preferably bring a small backpack; large bags and suitcases are not allowed inside.
2. Bottles of drinks are not allowed inside, so finish your bottle before going in.
3. Keep a close eye on your belongings, as pickpockets are active around the Colosseum.
Frequently asked questions about the Colosseum in Rome
Is the Colosseum wheelchair accessible?
The Colosseum is partially wheelchair accessible. There are elevators and adapted routes to some levels, but not all areas are equally easy to reach. It is advisable to check in advance which sections are accessible on the day of your visit.
Can you visit the Colosseum with children?
Yes, the Colosseum is also fun and educational to visit with children. Do keep in mind that it can be crowded and that there is a lot of walking involved. For younger children, an audio guide or a short guided tour can help make the visit more interesting.
Can you bring a backpack into the Colosseum?
Small backpacks are allowed, but large bags and suitcases are not permitted inside. There is a security check at the entrance.
Are there toilets in the Colosseum?
Yes, there are toilets available in the Colosseum. Keep in mind that during busy times you may have to wait a while.
Can you visit the Colosseum in the evening?
In some periods of the year, there are evening openings or special evening tours. This varies by season and period. It’s therefore smart to check in advance whether evening visits are possible during your stay.
Is it possible to visit the Colosseum without a ticket?
No, you always need a valid ticket to visit the inside of the Colosseum. Without a ticket, you can only admire the monument from the outside.
Renovations at the Colosseum in 2025–2026: what’s new?
The Colosseum is continuously being restored to preserve the monument. In 2025, a restored imperial passage (the so-called Passage of Commodus) was opened to visitors. In 2026, follow-up works are taking place on parts around this passage and on the maintenance of walls and walkways. The Colosseum remains open during these works, although some areas may be temporarily closed off.
And the arena floor? The original wooden arena floor was removed in the 19th century and has not been reinstated as a permanent floor in 2025–2026. There are plans for a (partial) reconstruction in the future, but these have not yet been completed or made permanently accessible. With some guided tours, you can access special platforms at arena level.
What does this mean for your visit? You can visit the Colosseum as usual in 2025 and 2026. Keep in mind possible scaffolding or adjusted walking routes, but also newly accessible additional areas.
What is there to visit around the Colosseum?
Right opposite the Colosseum lies the Forum Romanum. This was once the political and social heart of ancient Rome. During a walk through the Forum, you pass the remains of ancient temples, basilicas, and other important buildings.
If you’re already here, it’s definitely worth climbing the Palatine Hill as well. From the top, you have a beautiful view over the Forum Romanum and the surrounding area. It’s also a nice place to look around calmly and take photos.
Within walking distance is also Circus Maximus, the largest and oldest chariot racing stadium in Rome. In the past, spectacular chariot races were held here. Today, it is an open space where you mainly get a good sense of how large this area once was.
More travel tips for a city trip to Rome
Planning your trip to Rome? Below, you’ll find more articles with useful tips and practical information to help you make the most of your visit.
As the founder of Cities To Travel and an enthusiastic traveller, I’ve been exploring cities across Europe and America for over 15 years. On this website, I share my personal experiences, detailed walking routes and practical tips to help you plan the perfect trip. All my guides are based on my own travels!
Colosseum in Rome: Is it worth a visit?
The Colosseum in Rome is an impressive structure that has been an important part of the city’s skyline for almost 2,000 years. It is no surprise that it is one of the most visited attractions in Rome. But is visiting the Colosseum during your city trip to Rome really as impressive as people often say?
In this blog, I’ll tell you what to expect when visiting the Colosseum and whether I think it is worth a visit. You’ll also find practical information about tickets, opening hours, and the best time to visit the Colosseum.
What is the Colosseum in Rome?
The Colosseum in Rome is a former amphitheatre from Roman times. It was built to entertain the inhabitants of Rome with gladiator fights, hunts of wild animals, and other spectacles. Public executions also took place here. It is believed that over the centuries, hundreds of thousands of people and millions of animals lost their lives in this arena.
Is a visit to the Colosseum in Rome worth it?
I have visited Rome more than ten times over the past decade, and during that time I have also visited the Colosseum several times. On my first visit, I wanted to visit the Colosseum spontaneously, but the long queue at the ticket offices meant that I could not buy a ticket in time. As a result, I was unable to see the inside of the Colosseum on that trip.
On later visits, I always bought my tickets in advance. I usually choose an audio ticket, as it allows me to explore the Colosseum at my own pace, but I have also booked a guided tour a few times. Personally, I think a tour is well worth it if you want to learn more about the history of the building, the gladiator fights and its architecture. If you mainly want to admire the monument and take some great photos, an audio ticket is often more than enough.
I have visited the Colosseum at different times of the day, and I recommend going as early as possible, shortly after opening. This gives you plenty of time to explore the building and take photos or videos. If you visit later in the day, it can be so crowded that you are almost walking at a snail’s pace through the Colosseum, with hardly any space to properly look around or take photos.
I also often combine a visit to the Colosseum with the Roman Forum. During my most recent visit, in June 2025, I had bought my tickets in advance and went to the Colosseum first. Even though I also had a ticket for the Roman Forum, I still had to wait in a long queue there. In summer, the Roman Forum can also become very hot, so it is a good idea to bring plenty of water.
A useful tip: in the square between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, you will find water fountains where you can refill your water bottle for free with still or sparkling water. There are also drinking fountains inside the Roman Forum. It is also a good idea to apply sunscreen and wear a cap or hat, as there is very little shade. I have ended up getting quite badly sunburned here myself.
Whether a visit to the Colosseum is worth it for you depends on your interests and what you want to see. Personally, I think it is absolutely worth visiting. It gives you an impressive insight into Roman history, and you can really get a sense of what life might have been like here in the past. However, if you do not enjoy large crowds or have little interest in history, visiting the inside may not be for you. In that case, it is still impressive to admire the Colosseum from the outside.
These are the most popular tickets and tours for visiting the Colosseum in Rome
What can you see in the Colosseum in Rome?
During a visit to the Colosseum in Rome, you walk through different parts of the enormous structure. Each section shows you in a different way how grand and impressive this amphitheatre once was.
1. The facade of the Colosseum
The Colosseum consists of four levels. The first three levels can be recognized by the rows of arches with half-columns. What makes this so special is that each level is executed in a different architectural style: Doric at the bottom, Ionic above it, and Corinthian on the third level. This way, you can see different styles of Roman architecture in a single building.
2. The stands of the Colosseum
The stands of the Colosseum in Rome had space for enormous numbers of spectators. Around 50,000 people could sit and another approximately 25,000 visitors could stand. When you walk around here now, it is almost impossible to imagine how many people used to come here at the same time to watch the fights and games.
3.The belvedere in the Coliseum
4. The Arena floor in the in the Coliseum
The arena forms the heart of the Colosseum. In the past, there was a wooden floor here covered with sand. That sand helped gladiators avoid slipping and absorbed the blood shed during the fights. Around the arena stood a wall of about four meters high, intended to protect the audience. Nowadays, this part of the Colosseum is only accessible to visitors who book a guided tour; with a standard admission ticket, you cannot enter the arena.
5. The Hypogeum in the Colosseum
Beneath the arena lies the hypogeum: a network of underground corridors and rooms. In the past, sets, costumes, and weapons were prepared here, and gladiators and animals waited until the moment they had to enter the arena. The hypogeum offers a special glimpse into what went on behind the scenes during the games. This part of the Colosseum can nowadays only be visited with a guided tour; with a standard admission ticket, you cannot enter this area.
What is the best time to visit the Colosseum in Rome?
The Colosseum is one of the most visited places in Rome. Those who arrive without reserving in advance can often expect long waiting times. The quietest times to visit the Colosseum are early in the morning or later in the day. Especially in summer, it can be not only very busy around midday, but also quite hot.
Opening hours of the Colosseum in Rome
Below you can find the official opening hours of the Colosseum in Rome. The times are seasonal and are adjusted to the length of the day and the tourist season.
Opening hours year-round
The Colosseum opens daily at 8:30 AM. The closing time varies by season and usually falls between 4:30 PM and 7:15 PM.
Last entry is generally about one hour before closing time.
Closed days
The Colosseum is closed on January 1 and December 25.
Helpful tip for your planning
Because times can change by season (and may sometimes differ on holidays or during special events), it’s smart to check the current opening hours at the official ticket office shortly before your visit.
How long do you need for a visit to the Colosseum?
Do I need to make a reservation to visit the Colosseum in Rome?
The Colosseum is one of the most popular attractions in Rome. If you arrive without a reservation, you may have to wait in line for a long time, sometimes even for hours. By planning your visit in advance and booking your ticket ahead of time, you can avoid unnecessary waiting and have more time to explore the city. This is especially important to keep in mind during the high season.
Tickets for a visit to the Colosseum in Rome
There are several ways to visit the Colosseum, depending on how much time you have and how extensively you want to explore the monument.
1. Admission ticket with audio guide
With an entrance ticket that includes an audio guide, you can explore the Colosseum at your own pace. You’ll have access to the main areas of the monument, except for the arena and the underground section. The audio guide is available in several languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Chinese. This is a good option if you prefer to explore independently while still learning more about the history and background of the Colosseum.
Want to visit the Colosseum with an audio guide? Below, you can check the available tickets. Choose your preferred date and see which time slots are available.
2. Entrance ticket with guided tour
With a guided tour of the Colosseum, you’ll get more context about what you’re seeing. A guide will tell you about the history of the building, the gladiator fights, and its architecture, giving you a better understanding of the Colosseum than you might get from exploring it on your own.
Want to visit the Colosseum with a guided tour? Below, you can check the available tickets. Choose your preferred date and see which time slots are available.
Where is the Colosseum located in Rome?
The Colosseum is located in the historic center of Rome, on Piazza del Colosseo. From here, you can easily walk to other well-known places such as the Forum Romanum and the Palatine Hill.
How do you get to the Colosseum in Rome?
The Colosseum is easy to reach by public transport. By bus, tram, or metro, you’ll be almost right at the entrance.
1. Bus: lines 51, 75, 85, 87, 117, and 118 – stop Colosseo
2. Tram: line 3 – stop Piazza del Colosseo
3. Metro: line B – stop Colosseo
Tips for a visit to the Colosseum
Finally, here are a few practical tips that are useful to know before visiting the Colosseum:
1. Preferably bring a small backpack; large bags and suitcases are not allowed inside.
2. Bottles of drinks are not allowed inside, so finish your bottle before going in.
3. Keep a close eye on your belongings, as pickpockets are active around the Colosseum.
Frequently asked questions about the Colosseum in Rome
Renovations at the Colosseum in 2025–2026: what’s new?
The Colosseum is continuously being restored to preserve the monument. In 2025, a restored imperial passage (the so-called Passage of Commodus) was opened to visitors. In 2026, follow-up works are taking place on parts around this passage and on the maintenance of walls and walkways. The Colosseum remains open during these works, although some areas may be temporarily closed off.
And the arena floor?
The original wooden arena floor was removed in the 19th century and has not been reinstated as a permanent floor in 2025–2026. There are plans for a (partial) reconstruction in the future, but these have not yet been completed or made permanently accessible. With some guided tours, you can access special platforms at arena level.
What does this mean for your visit?
You can visit the Colosseum as usual in 2025 and 2026. Keep in mind possible scaffolding or adjusted walking routes, but also newly accessible additional areas.
What is there to visit around the Colosseum?
Right opposite the Colosseum lies the Forum Romanum. This was once the political and social heart of ancient Rome. During a walk through the Forum, you pass the remains of ancient temples, basilicas, and other important buildings.
If you’re already here, it’s definitely worth climbing the Palatine Hill as well. From the top, you have a beautiful view over the Forum Romanum and the surrounding area. It’s also a nice place to look around calmly and take photos.
Within walking distance is also Circus Maximus, the largest and oldest chariot racing stadium in Rome. In the past, spectacular chariot races were held here. Today, it is an open space where you mainly get a good sense of how large this area once was.
More travel tips for a city trip to Rome
Planning your trip to Rome? Below, you’ll find more articles with useful tips and practical information to help you make the most of your visit.
Sights in Rome: what should you have seen?
Read more »City trip to Rome: Is Rome a nice city?
Read more »4 Days in Rome: Complete Day by Day Itinerary and Tips
Read more »Over Cities To travel
Hi, I’m Edward!
As the founder of Cities To Travel and an enthusiastic traveller, I’ve been exploring cities across Europe and America for over 15 years. On this website, I share my personal experiences, detailed walking routes and practical tips to help you plan the perfect trip. All my guides are based on my own travels!
✉️ Questions? Feel free to send me an email.
👉 Read my full story here
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