Colosseum

Inside the Colosseum, it’s not easy to figure out how to continue the visit, given the poor directions. However, there are several stops to make within the site. The first is, without a doubt, in the arena, the place where performances and fights once took place. In addition, you can visit the dungeon, the only section of the monument to have been preserved virtually intact, and the third ring, from which to enjoy an overview of the entire structure. To complete the experience and better contextualise it, a museum has been built on the second level of the amphitheatre, showcasing the most significant works and findings made within the archaeological site. Finally, as you leave the amphitheatre, continue your visit to the archaeological park with the Forum and Palatine Hill. 

The Colosseum is the largest Roman amphitheatre in the world. It could seat between 50,000 and 87,000 spectators. Elliptical in shape, the complex is 189 metres long and 156 metres wide, with a maximum height of about 48 metres. The arena, consisting of a wooden table where performances and fights took place, was 76 metres long and 46 metres wide.

Tickets to the Colosseum usually also include access to the archaeological area of the Roman Forum-Palatine. While a standard ticket includes admission to both sites, including current exhibits, spending a little more will also give you access to the underground, the Arena floor, and other SUPER areas open to the public. Inside the amphitheatre you will be able to accompany your visit with an audio guide. However, our recommendation is to purchase a guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum accompanied by a local guide. This will allow you to have a more relaxed experience and fully immerse yourself in the history of ancient Rome. 

The time it takes to visit the Colosseum varies greatly depending on the type of ticket you decide to purchase. For a quick visit, one hour is sufficient to explore the amphitheatre. If, on the other hand, you purchase a guided tour, the timings vary from one and a half to three full hours if the tour includes other sites in the archaeological park. In general, considering possible queues and transfers, factor in about two hours to visit the attraction. 

The Colosseum is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Rome. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you book your entrance tickets online. In addition, it’s an outdoor site and during the summer months, Rome can get very hot. That’s why the best time to visit the monument is out of season, in autumn or winter, or in spring when the temperature is still pleasant. As for times of day, the site is usually a little less crowded at the opening and an hour before closing, when the last entries are made.