Top Things To Do In Colosseum (Rome) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Colosseum

1. 1. Guided Tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum

   Dive into the rich history of ancient Rome with a guided tour of the Colosseum and the nearby Roman Forum. An expert guide will lead you through the ruins of the colossal amphitheater, where gladiators once battled for their lives, and you'll gain insights into the daily life and politics of the Roman Empire as you stroll through the forum. The tour typically includes skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass the long queues and spend more time exploring the awe-inspiring sites. You'll hear fascinating stories about the spectacles held in the arena, the engineering marvels of the construction, and the historical events that took place there.

   Duration: Approximately 3 hours · Price: €45 per person

2. 2. Colosseum Night Tour with Underground Access

   Experience the Colosseum in a unique way with a night tour that includes exclusive access to its underground chambers. As dusk falls, you'll join a knowledgeable guide who will illuminate the darkened corners of the arena where gladiators and wild animals waited before their fateful encounters. The evening setting provides a more intimate atmosphere and cooler temperatures, making the visit both comfortable and mysterious. Walking beneath the arena floor, you'll get a glimpse of the sophisticated mechanisms and passageways that once orchestrated the grand spectacles. The dramatic lighting and the stars above create an unforgettable ambiance for this historical journey.

   Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours · Price: €80 per person

3. 3. Self-Guided Audio Tour

   For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the Colosseum offers a self-guided audio tour. Once you pick up your audio guide, you'll be in control of your journey through the epic monument. The narrative provides a detailed account of the Colosseum's history, including its construction, its significance in ancient Rome, and the variety of events that took place within its walls. You'll also learn about the architectural features that have allowed it to stand for centuries. As you walk through the tiered seating and look out onto the arena floor, the commentary will help you imagine the roar of the crowds and the thrilling moments that defined the Colosseum's legacy.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: €18 per person, plus Colosseum entrance fee

4. 4. Virtual Reality Experience

   Enhance your visit with a Virtual Reality (VR) experience that transports you back in time to the height of the Roman Empire. The VR experience offers a fully immersive 360-degree perspective of the Colosseum, recreating the monumental structure in its original splendor. You will wear VR headsets and witness the bustling activity and detailed reconstructions of the elaborate gladiatorial games. This modern twist on the ancient setting is perfect for individuals and families looking for an interactive way to engage with history. It's an educational and entertaining addition that complements your exploration of the ruins.

   Duration: 30 minutes · Price: €12 per person (in addition to the entrance fee)

5. 5. Colosseum Underground and Arena Floor Tour

   Explore the hidden depths of the Colosseum with this special tour that grants you access to the underground and arena floor, closed off to the general public. Led by an expert guide, you'll step onto the reconstructed arena floor where gladiators once fought and feel the magnitude of the amphitheater from their perspective. Then, descend into the underground to discover the complex network of tunnels and cages where animals and performers were kept before being hoisted onto the arena floor. This tour unveils the ingenious engineering behind the spectacles and provides a deeper understanding of the gladiatorial games. It's a must-do for history buffs and those seeking a comprehensive Colosseum experience.

   Duration: Approximately 3 hours · Price: €100 per person

6. 6. Colosseum and Ancient Rome Family Tour

   Tailored for families with children, this interactive tour brings the history of the Colosseum and Ancient Rome to life. Engaging guides use stories, visual aids, and activities to captivate the imaginations of both kids and adults. As you explore the Colosseum, children will learn about the gladiators and the animals that fought within the arena, while also having the opportunity to participate in scavenger hunts and trivia games throughout the experience. The tour continues through the Roman Forum, where the whole family can learn about daily life in ancient Rome and the significance of the ruins that remain. It's a fantastic way to introduce young ones to history while ensuring an enjoyable visit for everyone.

   Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours · Price: €55 per adult, €45 per child

7. 7. Express Colosseum Tour

   If you're short on time but still want to witness the grandeur of the Colosseum, an express tour offers a concise, guided visit to the most famous sections of the amphitheater. With a knowledgeable guide, you'll gain rapid entry and be led directly to the key areas of interest. The guide will provide essential historical context and highlight the architectural innovations that distinguish the Colosseum from other ancient amphitheaters. Though brief, this tour is packed with information and perfect for those with a tight schedule, allowing you to appreciate the history and scale of the structure in a limited timeframe.

   Duration: Approximately 1 hour · Price: €30 per person

8. 8. Full Experience Ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

   The Full Experience Ticket is your key to exploring the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill at your leisure. This combination ticket allows you to delve into the heart of ancient Rome, granting access to the three sites over two consecutive days. Stroll through the Colosseum's towering arches, walk the via Sacra in the Roman Forum – the path of triumphal parades, and stand where emperors once resided on Palatine Hill, overlooking the Circus Maximus. The ticket provides the freedom to explore the sites without a guided tour, although audio guides are available for an additional fee. It's an excellent choice for history enthusiasts and independent travelers who wish to absorb the ancient world at their own pace.

   Duration: Valid for 2 consecutive days · Price: €18 per person

9. 9. Sunset Tour of the Colosseum

   The Sunset Tour offers a picturesque and peaceful visit to the Colosseum, away from the day's heat and crowds. Join a small group and a knowledgeable guide as the setting sun casts a warm glow upon the ancient stones of the Colosseum. The tranquil ambiance at this time of day allows for a more reflective experience as you explore the arena, tiers, and exhibit areas. Your guide will provide rich historical narratives, making the ancient world come alive in the evening light. This tour is ideal for photographers and romantics who want to witness the beauty of one of Rome's most iconic landmarks under the magic of the twilight sky.

   Duration: Approximately 2 hours · Price: €50 per person

10. 10. Colosseum Dungeon Tour

    For those looking to uncover the darker side of the Colosseum, the Dungeon Tour provides an in-depth look at the underbelly of the ancient amphitheater. This guided tour takes you to the lower levels of the Colosseum, where gladiators prepared for battle and animals were caged before being released into the arena. The chilling atmosphere of the dungeons is palpable as you navigate the subterranean network and hear stories of the men and beasts that awaited their fate. The tour sheds light on the grim realities of the spectacles and the lives of those who were at the mercy of the crowds' cheers.

    Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours · Price: €90 per person