best guided tours of colosseum

12 of the Best Colosseum Tours in Rome 2024

Have you been wondering about the best colosseum tours in rome i’ve got you covered.

Having lived in Europe and spent some time in Italy, the Colosseum was one of my favourite people-watching spots. It’s a place of immense history and culture, and I always felt a fantastic sense of history when stepping inside its walls.

Knowing how famous the Colosseum is as a tourist destination, I understand why you might be uncertain about which tour to take when visiting Rome!

There are a lot of various tours on offer to ensure that everyone can experience the Colosseum as much or as little as you want.

From shorter guided tours with plenty of chances to learn about key moments in Roman history to more immersive experiences with opportunities for longer stays at various sites within the ruins, there’s something for every kind of traveller looking to explore this amazing monument.

No matter what kind of visit you’re looking for, these awesome tours will ensure your experience is unforgettable.

Check out the below suggestions for the best tours of the Colosseum while you’re in Rome.

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Table of Contents

My Top 3 Picks: Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour

• Skip the line
• Entry tickets included

Tour Of Colosseum Underground, Arena And Forum

• Small group
• Fast track entrance tickets

Colosseum And Roman Forum Tour

• Perfect for families

12 of the Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

1.   skip the line: colosseum, roman forum & palatine hill guided tour.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  3 hours | ✅  Book it!

Skip the long lines and get straight into the iconic Colosseum Arena, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with this all-in-one guided tour. You’ll learn interesting insights about these surviving structures of the Eternal City and gain an understanding about what really took place here all those years ago.

“Wonderful walking tour – there are so many things to see, so much history, so many stories that you’d never get without a guide. Highly recommended, and plan to stay in the Forum and Palatine Hill after the tour ends, so bring snacks and water!” – mcsimon3

Start your Ancient Rome tour by one of the Seven Hills of Rome, Oppian Hill, for a gorgeous view of the Colosseum. Skip the main entrance line and walk down the arena with your local guide.

Explore the first and second tiers of the Colosseum and wander around the famous amphitheatre as you listen to tales about the brutal gladiator battles and even the gory executions that once took place here.

After the Colosseum, you’ll head over to the Roman Forum to see the House of the Vestal Virgins and the Temple of Julius Caesar up close.

Lastly, walk up Palatine Hill to get a glimpse of the ruins of Circus Maximus. Although the guided tour ends here, you can stick around afterwards and continue to explore the area on your own. 

If you are interested in a more thorough tour, there is an optional upgrade for a semi-private tour. You’ll get to explore the Colosseum Arena floor, see where the Emperor’s box once stood, and even visit the underground area where the gladiatorial games and staged hunts were prepared.

Important details

• Start time and location: A pre-organised time at Largo Gaetana Agnesi
• Duration: 3 hours
• Includes: Skip the line Colosseum tickets (with the Arena included  Palatine Hillin semi-private tours), skip the line entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, a tour by a professional local guide, and headsets to hear your guide clearly

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

2. Small-Group Tour Of Colosseum Underground, Arena And Forum

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  3 hours | ✅  Book it!

One of the best Colosseum underground tours is this 3-hour adventure with Touriks. On this small group tour, explore restricted areas that regular ticket holders don’t get to see, including the underground area, the Arena, and the Roman Forum. You’ll be given headsets so you can hear your guide’s commentary clearly.

“Federica was brilliant. Her passion for archaeology was infectious. The moon was full, the colosseum was empty, and it truly felt like we were traveling back into history.” – Joseph_N

Avoid the busy lines and begin your tour by heading to the exclusive Arena floor. Go backstage to the underground section and imagine you are a gladiator preparing for a game in Ancient Rome.

Your guide will teach you all about the social and political importance of the amphitheatre, as well as the innovative techniques used to build this iconic attraction.

Lastly, visit the top tier of the Colosseum to admire some amazing views. See if you can spot the Temple of Venus and the Arch of Constantine, which you’ll walk under later on.

Take a short break to rest or explore around on your own before walking with your group to the Roman Forums for the rest of the tour.

Immerse yourself in the ruins of the Forum and discover the Senate House where the fate of the Roman Empire was determined. You’ll also get to see the Gardens of the Vestal Virgins, the pagan temple of Goddess Vesta, and a whole lot more. 

Finally, walk the path to Palatine Hill, once considered the most exclusive area of Ancient Rome. The bird’s eye view here across the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus is a once in a lifetime experience, so make sure to take it all in and enjoy the present moment. 

• Start time and location: A prearranged time at Piazza del Colosseo, outside the ground floor exit of the metro
• Includes: Fast-tracked entrance, a guided tour through the underground area of the Colosseum and the Arena floor, a guided tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, sterilised headphones to hear your guide’s commentary, the option for a nighttime tour

3. Skip-The-Lines Colosseum And Roman Forum Tour For Kids And Families

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

Are you travelling to Rome with young kids and are worried about keeping them entertained? Looking for best Colosseum tours in Rome for families? This tour is specifically designed with families in mind, making it the best way to see the Colosseum when travelling with little ones.

You can select from either a small group or a private tour, both of which allow for plenty of personal attention from your guide. You’ll also get to avoid waiting in long lines in the hot sun!

The entrance tickets you’ll receive are valid for two days, meaning you can come back again after the tour if you wish.

“This was a very educational and kids friendly tour. We were three families with kids and the guide kept all the kids entertained with quizzes and games about Roman history.” – Oktay_V

Meet your guide near the Colosseum and head straight inside. Your guide will teach you and your family about Roman history in a fun and engaging way, with age-appropriate stories about the gladiators and their battles against ferocious animals.

Next up, wander the cobbled streets of the Roman Forum, see the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, and visit the ruins of the Emperor’s Palace.

The Basilica of Maxentius, the largest building the Forum, is one of the highlights for both kids and adults. Being outside, the young ones will be able to explore around the ruins and let their imagination run wild. 

Important details 

• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Includes: Skip the line tickets, and an entertaining guide who specialises in kid-friendly tours for families 

4. Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour With Arena Floor

This special access Colosseum tour allows you to enter the Colosseum’s Arena through the Gladiator’s Gate. Gain a unique perspective as you discover the viewpoints of both the gladiators and the spectators while you hear tales of ruthlessness from a local guide.

“Such a great time with knowledgeable guide! Even held tight in the rain and continued the tour! So thoughtful of others.” – Nichole_E

Walk right past the main entrance lines and enter the Arena via the Gladiator’s Gate. Your guide will recount fascinating tales about the gladiators who fought to their death here, before heading up to the first floor where spectators once witnessed it all.

Listen to some more stories about Imperial-era Rome as you walk over to the Forum, once a hub for political activity. With your guide, look around the main ruins and monuments that still remain in this ancient plaza. 

• Start time and location: A prearranged time at the entrance of Colle Oppio Park at Via delle Terme di Tito, 72
• Includes: A group of maximum 24 people, an expert English-speaking guide, a headset, and a Colosseum entrance ticket 

5. VIP Colosseum Tour

Those looking for a fast-tracked, small group sightseeing trip shouldn’t miss this VIP Colosseum underground tour. It will typically begin at the Colosseum and end at the Roman Forum, although the order is sometimes switched depending on ticket availability and how far in advance you book.

Although you’ll see three amazing attractions in three hours, this tour is quite relaxed, thanks to the fantastic guides and the skip the line entry.

If you are easily overwhelmed at popular tourist sites and don’t know what to look out for, this VIP tour can help you enjoy your sightseeing without the stress.

“Barbara was wonderful. She was so very knowledgeable. She also kept the tour fun and light. The tour moved quickly, but there was plenty of time for photos and questions. She was extremely thorough! It was a great day all around!” – Sarah_T

At the Colosseum, your English-speaking guide will bring this ancient world to life with fascinating stories and intimate insights. Discover the birthplace of Rome at Palatine Hill and look out at the Circus Maximus, an ancient stadium used for chariot racing.

After wandering around the ruins beneath the tall pine trees, walk the Via Sacra and the Via Nova, historic roads from the Roman Empire that lead to the Forum. With their extensive knowledge and passion about the subject, you’ll get a sense of what day-to-day life was like for Romans here. 

• Start time and location: A prearranged time at the Arch of Constantine
• Includes: Skip the line entrance to the Colosseum and a VIP guided tour

6. Moonlight Tour Of The Colosseum And Ancient Rome

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

One of the most unforgettable memories you can make in Rome is seeing the Colosseum at night. Lasting over two hours and beginning with a little walking tour of Rome, this is the longest and best Colosseum night tour currently on offer.

With a maximum of 25 people in your group, gain exclusive access to the Colosseum after it closes to the general public. While impressive during the daytime, the ruins look even more spectacular underneath the moonlight. 

“I highly recommend this tour, especially in the summer when the days are so hot! This was our second time doing this tour. I really enjoyed the appetizers and wine beforehand and loved our very enthusiastic and energetic tour guide, Fi! Being able to go into the Colosseum after dark, when it is closed to the public, is pretty magical!” – David_B

Indulge in some drinks and snacks at the meeting point before walking along Via dei Fori Imperiali, one of the most iconic streets in Rome.

Once you’ve arrived at the Colosseum, you’ll begin a 90-minute guided tour of the restricted areas. This includes a Colosseum underground tour as well as the Arena Floor. See the ruins beautifully lit up with lights as the sun sets and explore the amphitheatre’s dungeons.

• Start time and location: 6:45 pm at Santi Cosma e Damiano
• Includes: After-hours admission to the Colosseum Arena and underground areas, with a headset to hear commentary by a professional guide

7. Colosseum Night Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

If you have less time in the evening or want an in-depth tour without dealing with the busy crowds, take this Colosseum night tour run by Discover Rome Tours.

“What an amazing experience! Definitely recommend the night tour. Felt as if we had the place to ourselves. There were only about 15 people total in our small group, then only encountered about six other groups throughout our hour-plus tour. Our guide was awesome! Definitely recommend this night option. Plus, you beat the heat!” – Leslie_D

This group tour will have a maximum of 25 participants, so with only a few other night tours running simultaneously, you will easily avoid the hordes of other tourists that come here during the daytime. 

Follow your guide around the Colosseum as it is beautifully lit up at night and learn interesting info on the history of this great amphitheatre. The highlight of the tour is getting to walk through the underground gladiator tunnels, which were only opened to the public in 2021.

• Start time: A prearranged time in the evening outside the Colosseo Metro Station
• Duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes 
• Includes: Skip the line entrance tickets to the Colosseum with an official tour guide and a group coordinator 

8. Private Tour Of Colosseo

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  1 hour 15 mins | ✅  Book it!

This is the ultimate choice for those seeking a Colosseum private tour. Other than the benefit of getting one-on-one time with your own tour guide, you can also choose a morning or afternoon start time that will fit around your itinerary.

This is easily one of the best Colosseum tours if you are looking for a more personal experience.

In addition to English, this tour is also offered in Italian, French, Spanish, German and Japanese upon request. It is also wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly. 

“Maria was a flawless tour guide. Highly recommend the experience if you’re looking for a solid day at the Colosseum and Roman Forum.” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer

With pre-booked admission, you can skip the line and start seeing the highlights of the Colosseum with your private guide. After a cup of Italian coffee, you’ll get an overview of the ancient amphitheatre and spend about 45 minutes with your guide.

All of the guides with Arena Tours are passionate and knowledgeable about ancient Rome and can answer any questions you might have along the way.

They will also give you plenty of information about the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which you can visit on your own after the tour has finished. 

• Start time: Any chosen time from the front of the Colosseo Metro Station’s upper floor
• Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes 
• Includes: All entrance fees into the Colosseum and a private tour

9. Ultimate Colosseum Small Group Tour

With your skip the line tickets on this ultimate Colosseum tour, you will save an estimated two hours that would be otherwise spent waiting in the hot sun.

Limited to 10 participants, this is one of the best tours of the Colosseum in Rome for travellers seeking a small group experience. It offers a chance to have a chat with both the guide as well as some other tourists.

Remember to bring your ID and show up at least 20 minutes before your start time!

“This was an outstanding tour, especially due to the ton of knowledge and insight from our incredible guide Simona Mariotti. She has a true passion for the history of Rome, and I learned so much in this tour. This sights were amazing, but the knowledge I also gained is what I will always remember. Thanks for making this experience so great!” – Doug_C

With your priority entrance, you can jump straight into 80 AD and learn about one of Europe’s most recognisable attractions. While admiring the Colosseum, you can ask your guide any questions. Your tour at this iconic Roman structure will typically last around 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Next, it’s on to the Roman Forum. Stand in the centre of the plaza and get a glimpse at the surrounding government buildings.

This was once the centre of Roman life, so you’ll gain an understanding of how the citizens of Rome once lived. After about half an hour, spend some time at Palatine Hill looking at the stunning views of the city and ask your guide any final questions you might have.

• Start time: A prearranged time near the upper floor exit of the Colosseo Metro Station
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes 
• Includes: Colosseum Privileged Entrance Ticket, Exclusive Partner Entrance Access, priority entrance for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, a headset and an official tour guide

10. Colosseum Express Skip-The-Line Guided Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  1 hour 15 mins | ✅  Book it!

If you have limited time in Rome, this express tour operated by City Walkers is perfect for you. With a maximum of 24 other travellers, you’ll skip the line and get a quick and easy intro to the Colosseum, plus some pics for Instagram!

“Great tour and great way to skip the line! Finding the tour was a bit confusing but it was very organized, the group we were in was maybe 15 people and our tour guide Alessandra was the best! She was so nice and knowledgeable, and it was so sweet how she included kids on the tour and checked up on everyone. I’d recommend this tour for sure!” – Camilla_B

Despite this tour lasting just over an hour, it will appear to go by even quicker thanks to the engaging and enthusiastic guides.

After skipping the line, you’ll hear some interesting stories and gain local tips and recommendations, such as where to find the best views in the city. The guides are also superb at helping you get some amazing photos. 

These Colosseum tour tickets also include entrance into the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which you can go to after the tour if your schedule permits.

• Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Includes: Tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with an official tour guide

11. Rome Combo: Colosseum & Forum With Rome Must-See Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  8 hours | ✅  Book it!

For travellers with plenty of time in Rome, take advantage of this combination Colosseum and city walking tour.

You’ll get two separate tours for a discounted price, seeing the famous amphitheatre in the morning before exploring the city in the afternoon. Plus, it’s a great Colosseum guided tour option for those on a budget!

“Colosseum was amazing and Simone was a wonderful guide. In the afternoon Edy helped us see the sights. He was extremely knowledgeable and helpful.” – Angela_D

Combining two of the most popular tours in Rome into one ticket, you will really get your money’s worth with this “Rome Super Saver”!

In the morning, meet with your guide and take in the views from Oppian Hill. Jump the main entrance queue as you enter the Colosseum and walk around the first two levels of the Arena while listening to stories of brutal gladiator battles.

As you exit the amphitheatre, you’ll stop at the Arch of Constantine on your way to the Roman Forum. After spending some time at Palatine Hill, finish your three-hour tour at Via Sacra.

Take a break for lunch (at your own expense) before meeting up with your second guide at Piazza di Spagna in the afternoon.

This walking tour will take you around the historic centre of Rome, stopping at sights like the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Colonna and the Pantheon (though you won’t get to go inside, unfortunately).

This part of the tour typically lasts about two and a half hours. You’ll also get to wander through Piazza Navona and peruse the works of the many street artists.

• Start time: 10 am at Largo Gaetana Agnesi
• Duration: 8 hours 
• Includes: Skip the line entrance into the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, an English-speaking guide, and a stop for refreshments in the centre of Rome

12. Small-Group Ancient Rome And Colosseum Underground Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  LENGTH:  1.5 – 3 hours | ✅  Book it!

This unforgettable tour of the underground chambers and gladiator tunnels gives you exclusive access to the Colosseum. It is the best Colosseum underground tour if you like things prompt and organised, as it always runs on time. ID is required, so don’t forget to bring your passport!

“This was a fantastic tour. We’ve been to the Colosseum before, but had never toured the underground area. It was very interesting to see it from a different perspective. Our tour guy, whose name I can’t remember, was full of stories and history from the different time periods. The Forum was also very interesting as well. This tour was an excellent value for the money. I highly recommend this tour.” – Linda_G

With this special tour, you’ll get to wander through areas of the Colosseum that are usually kept off-limits to other visitors.

See the underground chambers where wild animals were kept and walk the same path as the gladiators once paced while preparing for battle. Your guide will tell plenty of tales about the bloodthirsty crowds and the emperors who cheered on these games.

Next, change the mood a bit with a trip to the Roman Forum, which centred around political life and religion. Learn about life in Imperial Rome as you view the ruins of temples, basilicas and more. 

• Start time: A prearranged time in the morning or afternoon, by the lower level exit of the Colosseo Metro Station
• Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes to 3 hours
• Includes: A tour of the Colosseum’s underground plus the first and second floors, an Ancient Rome guided tour, and skip the line tickets

FAQs About best roman colosseum tours

Is it worth getting a guided tour of the colosseum.

Yes, it is definitely worth getting a guided tour of the Colosseum! Guided tours will give you a better understanding of the site’s history and importance.

Not only will you learn about the Roman Empire and also gain insight into art, culture, and religion from thousands of years ago.

With your guide’s help, you can get to know more about how Romans lived in ancient times and explore all areas of the Colosseum.

You can even go up to higher levels for panoramic views or view special exhibitions held in the Colosseum, depending on when you visit. Visiting with a guided tour is definitely one of the best ways to experience this iconic destination that has been around since 80 AD!

what is the best way to see the colosseum in rome?

One of the best ways to see the Colosseum in Rome is to take a guided tour. Guided tours provide an overview of the history of the iconic structure and can help you understand more deeply its context within Roman culture.

Guided tours also offer the opportunity to explore areas that are not accessible on your own, such as underground chambers and passageways.

Additionally, some guided tours include access to special events, like gladiator fights or reenactments of ancient battles.

is the colosseum worth visiting

The Colosseum is one of the greatest architectural achievements in history and absolutely worth visiting.

It’s not only a great way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Rome, but also an amazing sight to see; you can feel the magnitude of it as soon as you arrive. It’s truly an iconic landmark on the world stage and an experience you won’t forget.

Final Thoughts: best colosseum tours rome

Rome’s Colosseum tours offer a unique experience, and there is no better way to appreciate its history than to walk through it.

With the right tour, you can access areas off-limits to the general public, such as the underground chambers!

Now is the time to book your tour and enjoy the incredible beauty of Rome’s iconic monument while learning about its secrets and long history.

Take advantage of this one-of-a-kind opportunity – book your Colosseum tour today for an unforgettable experience in Rome!

• Where to Stay in Rome  – Close to Famous Attractions
• Weird, Unusual and Unique Things to do in Rome  for First Time Travellers (Plus a Few Classics)
• 48 Hours in Rome – 2 Day Itinerary
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• Luxury Travel Guide to Rome
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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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The 7 best rome colosseum tours with skip-the-line access.

Gladiators battled on the arena floor. A good guide will help you battle the crowds.

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Courtesy of ArcheoRunning

As the most enduring symbol of the Roman Empire and one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Colosseum receives more than 6 million visitors per year, so it's not easy to escape the crowds. A visit is worth it, though, if you want to see the world's largest amphitheater – once known as the Flavian Amphitheater – and try to imagine what it would have been like 2,000 years ago.

A standard ticket to the Colosseum also includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, so many (but not all) tours also include those ancient sites. Inside the ancient complex, there is very little signage explaining what you're looking at. A good guide will not only get you skip-the-line access but also bring these incredible places to life. Keep in mind that most Colosseum tours only give you access to the arena floor and upper level. If you want to visit the underground hypogeum, you need to make sure it's included in the tour.

Crown Tours: Skip the line Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum tour

Getty Images

Price: From $57 for adults

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Standout perk: Engaging guides speak several languages.

Selected by GetYourGuide as a Certified Experience, this group tour starts at the Colosseum, then takes you to the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Groups consist of up to 30 people, and tourgoers are given headsets so they can better hear and follow the guide. The tour meets at Largo Gaetana Agnesi on the hill overlooking the Colosseum about 30 minutes before the official entry time to get everyone checked in and set up with headsets. The guide then leads participants into the Colosseum and up to the second level, where there's a chance to stop and take photos. On the way back down, there's another photo-op at the arena level before the guide leads the group over to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum.

Crown Tours also offers guided tours of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica, as well as the Borghese Gallery, Pantheon and other sites.

Local tip: This tour is offered over a variety of time slots every day. Pick one of the earlier time slots to make sure you'll finish up by lunchtime.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide | Crown Tours

Through Eternity Tours: Ultimate Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Price: From $85 for adults

Duration: 3 hours

Standout perk: This tour includes the Palatine Hill, which some tours skip.

Recent visitors praise the knowledgeable guides for their passion about ancient history and keeping the tour moving while explaining everything in detail. This tour starts at 9:30 a.m. seven days a week and finishes up around lunchtime. In addition to the Colosseum, highlights include the Via Sacra and the House of the Vestal Virgins in the Roman Forum, as well as the Farnese Gardens on the Palatine Hill.

Groups are limited to 16 people; if there are six or more people taking the tour, the guide gives out headsets so everyone can hear. Participants are asked to meet 10 minutes before the start time in front of Cafe/Restaurant Angelino ai Fori on Largo Corrado Ricci. The tour is stroller-accessible, but not wheelchair-accessible. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle, especially on hot days.

Through Eternity Tours offers a variety of group and private tours of Rome and other destinations, including Florence , Naples and Pompeii.

Local tip: Book a table at the nearby Taverna dei Fori Imperiali to enjoy a leisurely lunch after the tour.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide | Through Eternity Tours

The Moon Over the Colosseum Tour

Price: From $27

Duration: 1 hour

Standout perk: You get after-hours access to the Colosseum and hypogeum.

This seasonal tour offers a completely different perspective on the Colosseum, when it's illuminated and the last of the visitors have left for the day. The official night tour offered by the Parco Archeologico del Colosseo focuses on the underground level, where the guide shows participants where the animals were caged and how they were lifted up onto the stage on proto-elevators made of wooden platforms. The tour group then ascends the stairs and sees a multimedia installation depicting Jerusalem before passing through the service gallery and ending on the arena level. The tour offers a rare opportunity to see the Colosseum without the crowds, but the tradeoff is that photos may not come out as well at night.

Participants on the tour arrive at the Valadier Gate, meet the guide and go through security. This tour does not include the Roman Forum or Palatine Hill. The tour hours change by season, and dates for the spring 2024 season have not been released yet as of the time of publication.

Local tip: There are a bunch of companies offering this tour for triple the price of the official tour, but the official tour is great.

View & Book Tickets: Parco Archeologico del Colosseo

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

LivTours: The Best of Colosseum & Ancient Rome With Exclusive Arena Access

Courtesy of LivTours

Price: From $151 for adults

Standout perk: Virtual reality headsets show what the ancient sites would have looked like.

Recent tourgoers praise the guides on this tour for bringing the facts and stories about ancient Rome to life. These semiprivate tours are guaranteed to have no more than six people, making them a more personalized experience than other group tours. However, because the tours are small, the guides don't use headsets, and some participants note that it can be difficult to hear the guide over the noise in the Colosseum.

Along with the confirmation email, participants receive an invitation to download an app. During the tour, the guide gives everyone a cardboard virtual reality headset that works with the app and shows a reconstruction of the Colosseum and surrounding valley. After visiting the Colosseum, the tour continues to the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, where the virtual reality headsets show you a reconstruction of the Circus Maximus and the structures in the Roman Forum. At all the sites, you get skip-the-line access.

Local tip: You can get some great photos from the upper level, especially if you stand at the apex of the oval.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide | LivTours

ArcheoRunning: The Unveiled Colosseum Running Tour (or Walking Tour)

Price: $218 for private groups of up to 6 people + the cost of tickets

Standout perk: You get access to the third level and attic.

This private tour is led by Isabella Calidonna, a licensed tour guide and certified personal trainer. Through her company ArcheoRunning, she leads visitors on running and walking tours of Rome early in the morning to see the city without the crowds. For this tour, Calidonna meets guests at their hotel at 7:30 a.m. and leads them on a running tour through the Eternal City's most beautiful squares before bringing them to the Colosseum, where they have the chance to visit the third level and the attic – areas normally closed to the public – as well as the lower levels of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum. This tour must be booked at least a month in advance in order to confirm 8:30 a.m. access to the Colosseum.

AR Experience, an offshoot of ArcheoRunning, also offers tours of the underground at 10 a.m., 11:15 a.m. or 1:30 p.m., as well as more relaxed three-hour tours that are also suitable for children and people with mobility problems.

Local tip: You can't run inside the Colosseum, but running around it is a great way to take it in while getting some exercise.

View & Book Tickets: ArcheoRunning

Roma Experience: Private Colosseum Tour With Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Courtesy of Roma Experience

Price: From $520 for two people

Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Standout perk: See these ancient sites with an archaeologist who dug at the Roman Forum.

For a deeper understanding (no pun intended) of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, a tour with Elisa Valeria Bove, CEO of Roma Experience, is one of the best you can buy. She studied archaeology and has been involved in excavations at the Roman Forum and other sites, so she's just the person to guide you if you want to get beyond the surface level. Her private tours range from just under three hours for a skip-the-line Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tour to the full-day "See Rome in One Day" tour, which also includes a guided visit of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Be sure to specify if you want to visit the hypogeum when you book.

Roma Experience organizes bespoke private tours throughout Italy, including multiday itineraries. Bove will work with you to customize your experience and bring you to places you wouldn't think to visit, like Quintili's Villa on the ancient Appian Way.

Local tip: If you want to see another incredible archaeological park, let Bove take you to Ostia Antica, less than an hour from Rome.

View & Book Tickets: Roma Experience

Imago Artis Travel: Timeless Tales of Gods and Laymen of the Ancient Rome

Courtesy of Imago Artis Travel

Price: On request

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: This tour includes the Pantheon in addition to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Founded by three art historians with a passion for Roman art and history, Imago Artis Travel offers bespoke private tours of Rome and beyond. Imago Artis works closely with their clients to craft personalized itineraries that highlight the city's most incredible monuments and hidden gems. This tour lasts a half-day and includes the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Pantheon, with an optional stop for espresso, but you can customize the itinerary to do a full-day tour or multiday itinerary.

Other itineraries that include the Colosseum bring visitors to the Basilica of San Clemente, known as the "lasagna church" because it was built in layers: The deeper you descend, the further back in time you go. Imago Artis also grants visitors exclusive access to off-limits places, such as a church overlooking the Roman Forum. The company also organizes multiday itineraries throughout Italy.

Local tip: There's an element of surprise and delight with Imago Artis that's hard to find elsewhere, especially if your guide is Fulvio De Bonis, one of the company's founders.

View & Book Tickets: Imago Artis Travel

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura Itzkowitz is a Rome-based freelance journalist who thinks about the Roman Empire all the time. She has visited the Colosseum in the morning, in the evening after the crowds have left, on group tours and on private tours. To curate this list of the best Colosseum tours, she used her own experience as well as her research expertise, culling tips from locals and visitors.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Rome Tours: Food, The Vatican & More
• The Top Italy Tours
• The Best Things to Do in Rome
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

The Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Tags: Travel , Tours

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10 Best Colosseum Tours You Should Take In 2024

If you’re looking for the best Colosseum tours you’ve come to the right place as I’m a full-time traveller and I’ve taken multiple tours of the Colosseum when visiting Rome.

I know how important having the right tour and the right guide is to make the most of the situation. It’s not every day you get to tour one of the Wonders of the World!

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of tour options for the Colosseum, so it can be hard to find the best ones. Luckily for you, I have compiled a list of the 10 best tours so all you need to do is choose which one suits you the most.

This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps me to keep my site up and running! Read my disclaimer for more information.

🏆 EDITOR’S PICK: Best Colosseum Tour = Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill with thousands of 5-star reviews.

Ready to explore the best options and book your tour? Let’s get straight into it!

Josh’s Top 3 Picks: Best Colosseum Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill ✔️ 7400+ 5 star reviews ✔️ Skip the line tickets ✔️ Max group size of 16

VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill ✔️ 5400+ 5 star reviews ✔️ Visit the Underground ✔️ Skip the line tickets

Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor ✔️4800+ 5 star reviews ✔️ VIP Arena Floor Access ✔️ Walk through Gladiator’s Gate

Best Colosseum Tours

A trip to Rome would not be complete without taking a tour of the Colosseum. But no one wants to experience one of the wonders of the world with a below-par tour, that’s why I have ensured that all of these tours are the best of the best , and you’re guaranteed a great time on each of them.

1. Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (7400+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 16 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

The Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill tour is the highest-rated tour of the Colosseum with over 7400 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐reviews! Yes, more than 7000 reviews- wow!

• Highest-rated tour with more than 7400 5-star reviews
• Skip the line tickets
• Maximum group size of 16
• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tour included
• Walks Tours is my favourite tour company worldwide
• Free cancellation
• Infants under 2 are free (discounted price for up 2-14 year olds)
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments
• Not suitable for strollers
• Slightly more expensive option (worth it in my opinion)

Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill is my favourite tour on this list. I have found it to have the guides with the best personality, best facts, and best timings.

You will notice that the tour also includes a tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. This is because entry is included to the Roman Forum with Colosseum tickets, so most tours will also include a tour of the Roman Forum. Even better value for money!

Having a maximum number of 16 also means that your tour group will be relatively small , as most tours allow up to 25ish people, so you will have a much more personal experience. Although, the most personal experience comes from a private tour of the Colosseum .

I have personally taken lots of tours all over the world with Walks, the tour operators in this case, and had incredible experiences. The guides are always very knowledgeable, and the overall tour experience is always top quality. I can’t recommend it enough.

This tour also allows you to skip the queues outside the Colosseum , as you are part of a tour group, you get to simply bypass the (usually long) queue!

If you are in search of the best Colosseum tour, Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill is the option for you. There’s a reason it’s so highly rated by over 7000 people: it’s the best tour there is. And I can personally vouch for its quality.

2. VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (5400+ reviews )| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 24 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Another Colosseum tour option is VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill which is also extremely highly rated, with over 5400 reviews . I told you, Walks are the best!

• Access to the Colosseum Underground
• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tour also included
• Free cancellation until 7 days before
• Larger group (max 24)
• No set start times (your time will be confirmed 30 days prior to your tour)
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or strollers
• One of the more expensive options (because of the exclusive access)
• Required to bring your ID with you (because of the exclusive access)
• Not refundable within 7 days of the tour

As the name suggests, VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill offers a tour of the underground of the Colosseum, which is not included in most other tours. The underground definitely offers a unique perspective of the ancient amphitheatre.

It is one of the most exclusive experiences you can have in the Colosseum . By touring the tunnels of the underground, you are seeing parts of the Colosseum that most visitors skip.

Of course, you also tour the general access areas of the Colosseum. But if you ask me, it always feels better to visit the more exclusive areas.

I got goosebumps visiting the underground and looking at all of the mechanisms and how they used to control the arena floor.

This tour is a very in-demand tour and often sells out, so make sure to book it well in advance of your trip to Rome. You’ll notice it also includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill and also includes skip-the-line tickets.

It’s also with Walks who as I said in the last tour, I highly recommend to anyone- they’re tried and trusted and are guaranteed to provide a great tour.

Once again, VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill is extremely highly rated, with over 5400 5-star reviews.

3. Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (4800+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 16 |🏛️ BOOK NOW

Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor is a truly special tour of the Colosseum. You get to enter the Colosseum through the Gladiator’s Gate- I won’t lie, I felt like a proper gladiator walking in!

• Access to the Colosseum Arena Floor
• Enter through the famous Gladiator Gate
• Max group size 16

Entering the Colosseum through a different entrance is pretty cool, especially since you enter the arena floor of the Colosseum in the same way Roman Gladiators did 2000 years ago.

This tour also includes access to the Arena Floor , which is not included in most tour options. Seeing the Colosseum from the arena floor is a completely unique experience from walking around the different levels.

You see the Colosseum from the perspective of the gladiators, looking up into the crowd. It is special indeed and was another moment which gave me goosebumps touring the Colosseum.

Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor also visits the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, with skip-the-line entrance tickets included too.

After entering the Colosseum’s arena floor, you also go up into the stands and experience a “standard” Colosseum tour. It’s good to see the Colosseum from all the different perspectives so you can get a feel of how significant the amphitheatre was for all the different types of people in Ancient Rome.

Of course, any tour which offers such a unique experience sells out in advance , so make sure to book your Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor early. With over 4600 positive reviews, you’re guaranteed to have the tour of a lifetime.

4. VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor

⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5 Stars (2100+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2.75 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 24 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor holds a special place in my heart because when I first visited Rome, when I saw the Colosseum for the first time, it was nighttime. So anything which involves the Colosseum at night, I’m a big fan.

Once again, the tour is with Walks. I really do love their Rome tours , and I even took their Rome in a Day tour which includes a Colosseum Tour and a tour of the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums on the same day, along with the Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and more!

• See the Colosseum at night
• Fewer crowds

The Colosseum during the day is beautiful but the Colosseum at night is a magical experience. In my opinion, the Colosseum is even more stunning when it’s lit up at night.

The lights create a yellow/orange glow effect which is a thing of beauty! Seeing the Colosseum at night is beautiful as it is, so imagine taking a tour of the Colosseum at night, wow!

A huge bonus of visiting the Colosseum during a night tour is the lack of crowds . It’s so much quieter. It’s somewhat eery in a way, but that only adds to the tour in my opinion.

There are only a handful of people inside the Colosseum during night tours, you get a much more surreal experience, seeing the Colosseum “empty” as opposed to extremely crowded during the day.

This tour of the Colosseum also encompasses all of the 3 previous tours into one. It includes a standard Colosseum tour, both exterior and interior, as well as the underground and the arena floor! It has everything!

Combine this with the lack of crowds and the beauty of the Colosseum at night, and you can understand why the VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor holds a special place in my heart.

As the review above says, this tour is “unbelievable”. It’s by far the best Colosseum night tour and it will truly make your trip to Rome.

5. Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill

⭐ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (14,500+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

The most popular Colosseum tour on GetYourGuide is the Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill tour. With over 14,000 reviews averaging at 4.7/5 stars, you know this tour is one of the best! Having over 14,000 reviews is pretty mind-blowing, to be honest!

• Skip the line access
• Guided tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
• Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a 50% refund
• Available in 5 languages
• Headsets included when the group is large
• Often overruns its time (up to as long as 3.5 hours)
• Not suitable for wheelchair users

The expert guides on Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill have a reputation for being witty and funny, so if you are interested in getting a tour of the Colosseum along with a bit of comedy, this is the tour for you.

Of course, it is very good for a tour in general, aside from the personality factor. Their facts and storytelling is great. But who doesn’t love a joke thrown in there every now and again?

My favourite was “What did the Roman say when his wife was eaten by a lion?”, “Gladiator”. *ba dum tss* Okay, I’ll see myself out. But if you have kids, the jokes help to make it a family-friendly tour, but all of these tours are family-friendly too.

Back to the tour, included are skip-the-line tickets to all 3 of the attractions mentioned throughout this article (Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill) along with free cancellation until 24 hours before, which is always a good perk.

Most of the tours offered in this list are also available in multiple languages. This tour, for example, is available in English, Italian, Spanish, German and French.

At less than €40 each, Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill is definitely an affordable but great tour of the Colosseum!

6. VIP Small Group Colosseum and Ancient City Tour

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (600+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 15 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

The VIP Colosseum Tour is another great option for getting a tour of the Colosseum alongside fast-track tickets, meaning you skip the queue waiting to get in. Around 7 million people visit the Colosseum each year , so you can imagine how big the queues can get!

• Stroller accessible
• Accessible by Public Transport
• Non-refundable
• Not suitable for wheelchairs

This tour is booked through Viator which is a very reliable website and a great company to book activities and things to do through- you’ve likely booked a tour with them before.

The VIP Colosseum Tour is a perfect example, it’s rated 5 stars out of 5 with overwhelmingly positive reviews such as the one above.

A benefit of booking a tour of the Colosseum, aside from the facts and insight provided by your guide, is the ability to get photos taken by other tour members .

Whether you are a family, couple, or solo traveller, tours are a great way to get pictures in return for taking pictures of someone else.

As a travel blogger, I need lots of photos to use on my site, so I probably annoyed everyone in my group by asking for photos at every opportunity. But still- it’s great to get pictures, right?

Plus, as a small group tour, it’s much more personal and the guide feels part of the group, rather than someone speaking to the group. Taking a walking tour with like 30 people is never fun in my opinion.

VIP Colosseum Tour is another great option and definitely one of the best Colosseum tours out there.

7. Fast Track Colosseum with Arena Floor VIP Guided Tour

⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 Stars (7800+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Taking a tour of the Colosseum is one of the best things to do in all of Italy, and the Fast Track Colosseum with Arena Floor VIP Guided Tour is another of the highest-rated tours, with 7800 plus positive reviews.

• Lots of different starting time options throughout the day
• The tour ends in the Roman Forum and you can stay as long as you want

In my opinion, it’s always a good idea to choose a tour with high ratings . You don’t want to try a less popular tour and have a negative experience; go with what people have tried and what people have enjoyed!

And this test has more than passed the test of time, and it’s another I can personally vouch for. Seeing the Colosseum from the Arena Floor will never get old, as I said earlier, it’s a great place to visualise and imagine yourself as a Roman Gladiator.

It’s excellent value for money and on top of your access to the Colosseum, the tour has some of the best guides in all of Rome! And for a tour of the best out of all of the monuments and landmarks in the Eternal City, you want the best guides, right?

By the way, make sure you bring your ID with you to your tour of the Colosseum – sometimes you are required to verify your identity. But from my experience, I’ve never seen anyone’s ID checked. You do, however, have to go through airport-style security with a metal detector and scanning machine.

If you want to see the Colosseum along with the arena floor, Fast Track Colosseum with Arena Floor VIP Guided Tour is a tour not to be missed!

8. Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome

⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5 Stars (2600+) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Another great option for touring the restricted parts of the Colosseum is the Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome tour. It also includes access to the tunnels of the underground of the Colosseum, along with the arena floor.

• Exclusive access to the Underground AND Arena Floor
• Entry via Gladiator’s Gate
• Baby strollers not allowed
• Meeting time is subject to change

It’s worth noting that most of the tours on this list include the option of wearing a headset (in larger groups) in order to hear your guide more clearly, this can be very useful, especially on busy days when there are lots of tours going on at once throughout the Colosseum.

If you don’t like wearing headphones, I’d recommend booking the first tour on my list, as it’s a smaller group so the guide is able to be heard by everyone without having to shout or speak into a microphone. Sometimes a huge group can ruin a tour, but this isn’t the case for Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome thankfully.

Again, this tour also includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, despite not having it in the name of the tour. All tickets to the Colosseum include entry to the Roman Forum- so if you decide not to go with a tour and to simply book tickets, then you still get entry to the Forum.

Seeing the underground and arena floor of the Colosseum are very unique experiences, and to be able to do both of them is an opportunity not to be missed! I’d really encourage you to spend the extra bit of money to tour the exclusive areas – it’s worth it, I promise you.

Colosseum Underground, Arena Floor and Ancient Rome is also super highly rated with more than 2500+ reviews. If my word isn’t enough, the reviews speak for themself.

9. Private Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (540+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🧍 GROUP SIZE: Only your group | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Have you considered taking a private tour of the Colosseum? Private tours offer a completely unique and personalised experience to touring the Colosseum. I took a private tour of the Colosseum once and I would recommend it to anyone!

• Private guide
• Guided tours of the Colosseum & Roman Forum
• Hotel pickup included
• Luxury option available (including Arena Floor)
• Wheelchair accessible
• Expensive price

Private Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour is one of the best options too. It’s thoroughly enjoyable, provides a great tour and has so many more perks than a group tour. Here are some benefits you get by taking this tour:

• Hotel pickup – get picked up directly from where you are staying!
• Choose between a morning and afternoon tour
• 7 different language options
• Cancel until the day before
• One guide all to yourself! – my favourite reason to take a private tour
• Ask unlimited questions and choose how much time to spend at each stop

You can even upgrade to a luxury option which includes hotel drop-off after the tour, plus access to the Colosseum’s arena floor!

In my opinion, having a private guide is a million times better than a group tour . The ability to essentially have a personal Google about the Colosseum while walking around is extraordinary.

You can ask any questions you may have, choose how long to spend at each stop along the tour and essentially experience the Colosseum the way you want to experience it.

As a history-lover, I definitely asked way too many questions- oops! But did you know at least 400,000 people died in the Colosseum ? Ancient Roman history never fails to catch my attention.

Not to mention that you can go at your own pace, choosing how much time to spend in each part of the Colosseum.

Private Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour is by far the best private tour of the Colosseum too- if you are considering taking a private tour, this is the one to take!

10. Colosseum Guided Tour

⭐ RATING: 4 out of 5 Stars | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour |🧍 GROUP SIZE: Max 25 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

The last tour on the list, but by no means the least, is the Colosseum Guided Tour and it may be the choice for you if you are only interested in touring the Colosseum . It only lasts an hour and skips the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

• Short tour if you are limited by time
• Skip the line entry
• Entry to Palatine Hill & Roman Forum included with your ticket
• Doesn’t include the Roman Forum or Palatine Hill as part of the tour
• Requires a minimum number of travellers (refunded if it’s not met)

Once again, the guides are known for having personality and good fun with the tour group. As well as providing an excellent tour of the most popular attraction in Rome.

This is what I would call a “basic” tour. It gives what it says it gives, nothing more and nothing less.

It might be a great option if you’re short on time too. As it only lasts one hour.

Although it does not include a guided tour of the Roman Forum, entry is included in your ticket and you can access the Forum for “free”. You still have general admission to the Forum.

If you want a tour only of the Colosseum and nothing more, Colosseum Guided Tour is the option for you.

Below are some questions related to the best tours of the Colosseum along with my answers to each question.

The best tour of the Colosseum is the Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill . It has over 6000 5-star reviews, it’s by far the highest-rated tour of the Colosseum. It also includes a tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill!

A guided tour of the Colosseum is undoubtedly worth it. Having a guide allows you to learn about the history of the Colosseum, and ultimately, understand what you are actually looking at. The Colosseum is complex! You need a guide to show you around and ensure you have a good experience.

Yes! You can enter the Colosseum as part of a tour. The best tour of the Colosseum is the Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill which has over 6000 5-star reviews. It’s the best way to see the Colosseum.

Yes, you can visit the Colosseum without a tour. As long as you have a valid ticket for entry, you can go inside the Colosseum. However, taking a tour is more than worth it. The prices aren’t too much more, allow you to skip the queues, and of course, included an excellent guided tour.

Any tour of the Colosseum is worth doing, but seeing the underground and the tunnels of the Colosseum is a completely unique experience. Normally closed off to the public, being in a tour group which visits the underground section is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s incredible!

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, 10 of the best Colosseum tours to take during a trip to Rome.

Remember, the best tour to take is the Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill .

Nonetheless, whichever of these 10 tours you choose to take, you are guaranteed to have an excellent guide around the Colosseum. Spending time in Rome cannot be spent without taking a tour of one of the world’s seven wonders.

Whether you are spending  one day in Rome , 2, 3 or  4 days in Rome  or more, you  need  to fit in a tour of the Colosseum. It’s a must-do, and it would be a sin to leave Rome without taking a tour.

I hope you have a spectacular tour- the Colosseum provides memories that will last forever , and your tour can either make or break those memories. So make sure you book one of the best tours of the Colosseum!

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

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Built almost 2,000 years ago using the spoils of war in Jerusalem, the Colosseum’s official name is actually Flavian Amphitheater— named after the Flavian dynasty of Emperors who ordered its construction. The ancient arena once held up to 85,000 spectators and hosted bloody gladiator battles, wild animal hunts, public executions, and was even filled with water for a mock sea battle on at least one occasion! Admission to the Colosseum includes entry to Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, among the world's most significant archeological sites. The structures are right in Rome's center and easy to get to. Most of our tours include all the archeological sites at varied durations, but three hours on average. If the word "tour" is in the title then it definitely includes an English-speaking Colosseum guide. The Colosseum Underground tour is perfect for anyone who wants to do the most exclusive product, but be prepared to jump through some hoops. Tickets are difficult to come by so all visitors are asked to leave the purchase date of the tour open in case of a time change. The Arena floor is the second most exclusive product which visits the same stage the gladiators fought on. Finally, our Privileged Entrance Colosseum tour is our most affordable tour and a great value! It's easy to find our meeting points, and you'll always find an attendant with a sign reading "The Tour Guy" or "The Roman Guy" on it. Our Welcome Staff are friendly and will improve your overall experience. Our guides are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do which shows in the reviews. With special access and our expert guides, you can get more from your Colosseum tour. Explore underground tunnels, walk through the Gladiator’s Gate onto the battle floor, or take in the beauty of the Colosseum under lights on a night tour. Just choose your ideal Colosseum tour and leave the rest to us!

Rome is busy in the summer, which can be a challenge for visitors. Our Colosseum tours include skip-the-line entry which gives you a break from crowds. We also offer special access to areas like the underground and the arena floor. All tours include admission tickets to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum. Look out for tours like Rome in a Day which also includes the Vatican and Sistine Chapel. Built almost 2,000 years ago using the spoils of war in Jerusalem, the Colosseum’s official name is actually Flavian Amphitheater— named after the Flavian dynasty of Emperors who ordered its construction. The ancient arena once held up to 85,000 spectators and hosted bloody gladiator battles, wild animal hunts, public executions, and was even filled with water for a mock sea battle on at least one occasion! Admission to the Colosseum includes entry to Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, among the world's most significant archeological sites. The structures are right in Rome's center and easy to get to. Most of our tours include all the archeological sites at varied durations, but three hours on average. If the word "tour" is in the title then it definitely includes an English-speaking Colosseum guide. The Colosseum Underground tour is perfect for anyone who wants to do the most exclusive product, but be prepared to jump through some hoops. Tickets are difficult to come by so all visitors are asked to leave the purchase date of the tour open in case of a time change. The Arena floor is the second most exclusive product which visits the same stage the gladiators fought on. Finally, our Privileged Entrance Colosseum tour is our most affordable tour and a great value! It's easy to find our meeting points, and you'll always find an attendant with a sign reading "The Tour Guy" or "The Roman Guy" on it. Our Welcome Staff are friendly and will improve your overall experience. Our guides are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do which shows in the reviews. With special access and our expert guides, you can get more from your Colosseum tour. Explore underground tunnels, walk through the Gladiator’s Gate onto the battle floor, or take in the beauty of the Colosseum under lights on a night tour. Just choose your ideal Colosseum tour and leave the rest to us!

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Exclusive Access

Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour through the Gladiator's Gate

Walk in the footsteps of gladiators on the Colosseum floor and see the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

( 1699 ) as low as $69.77

Skip the Line

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Explore the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!

( 1447 ) as low as $155.15

Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Skip the line at the Colosseum, plus Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!

( 508 ) From: $63.27

Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Get special access to the Underground dungeons and Arena Floor on this guided small group tour

( 947 ) From: $176.99

3-Hour Scenic Golf Cart Tour of Rome in a Small Group

Experience the Eternal City in complete comfort with stops at 8 iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites

( 19 ) From: $166.50

Private Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

See the Colosseum and ancient Rome like a VIP, the Temple of Caesar, and more!

( 192 ) From: $498.39

Private Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Vatican Museums

See the best of Rome your way with a private guide at the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, and more!

( 53 ) From: $1,107.78

Rome Sightseeing Tour by Golf Cart

Whiz through Rome to see the Colosseum, Vatican, Roman Forum, Oppian Hill, Tiber Island, and more!

( 30 ) From: $355.20

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