Inside the Colosseum

Inside the Colosseum: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

Step into the heart of history as we uncover the wonders inside the Colosseum. Beyond the iconic exterior lies a world of grandeur and intrigue, where gladiators clashed, emperors watched, and history unfolded.

Important:
Please note that standard Colosseum admission doesn’t include access to exclusive zones like the Underground, upper tiers, or the arena. Special passes or guided tours are required for these areas. It’s advisable to carefully review the details of each option to ensure access to specific areas, especially if you are particularly interested in any of the highlighted attractions.

What is inside the Colosseum?

Here are the highlights that await you inside the Colosseum:

The Arena Floor: Stand where gladiators once battled and wild animals roamed. Picture the dramatic events that unfolded on this grand stage, an iconic symbol of Roman grandeur. A dedicated guided tour provides an exclusive experience. Pro Tip: Book your guided tour with Arena access in advance to secure access to the Arena Floor, gaining a unique perspective of the Colosseum’s history.

The Hypogeum/ Underground: Descend into the underground labyrinth where gladiators prepared and animals were kept. Exclusive guided tours unveil the engineering marvels and vivid history behind the grandeur above ground. Delve into the secrets of the Colosseum’s hidden depths, witnessing the ingenious mechanisms that made the spectacles possible.

The Gladiators’ Gate: Enter the Colosseum through the same gate that gladiators once walked through, feeling the anticipation that once filled the air. Imagine the echoes of the past as you step through the very entrance that fueled the excitement of gladiatorial combat.

The Emperor’s Box: The Emperor’s Box is a prestigious seating area where Roman elites witnessed the events in comfort and style. This vantage point offers a unique perspective on the Colosseum’s dynamics, allowing you to see through the eyes of those who shaped the course of the games and influenced public opinion.

The Seating Tiers: The Colosseum was divided into three tiers, with seating for approximately 50,000 spectators. The seating was arranged by social class, with the lower tiers reserved for senators and magistrates, the middle tiers for the middle class, and the upper tiers for the common people.

The Terraces: Ascend to the upper terraces for breathtaking panoramic views of Rome. From this elevated vantage point, marvel at both ancient and modern landmarks that dot the cityscape. This experience provides not only a historical perspective on the Colosseum but also a stunning visual connection to the city’s evolving landscape.

The Colosseum Museum: Delve into the Colosseum’s rich history at the museum situated on the second level. Exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations bring the past to life, offering detailed insights into gladiatorial combat, architecture, and daily life in Ancient Rome. Marvel at authentic armor, ancient weapons, archaeological excavations, and other items that provide a comprehensive understanding of the Colosseum’s cultural and historical context.

The Archways: These archways showcase the architectural genius that brought this colossal amphitheater to life. Admire the intricate network of arches that support the Colosseum’s massive structure, while appreciating the engineering achievements of Ancient Rome.

The Statues: Observe the statues that adorn the Colosseum’s exterior and facades, depicting emperors, deities, and figures from Roman mythology.

Book Colosseum Admission & Guided Tours

Explore below our curated selection of Colosseum admission and guided tours:

Top-Value Colosseum Entry

Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum Access

4.3/5

14.4K+ Reviews

€17.98

Headout

Instant Confirmation
Book now, pay later
Access to Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill
No Cancellation

It was so simple to use and we had the best day ever! So easy to find with the information on the app and it was the easiest thing ever!

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Bestselling Colosseum Entry with Multimedia Video

Rome: Colosseum and Roman Forum with Multimedia Video

4/5

12.9K+ Reviews

€24

GetYourGuide

Instant Confirmation
Duration 3 hours
Access To Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
30-minute Ancient Rome Multimedia Video
No Cancellation or Rebooking

Very easy place to collect our tickets and then pass without any queue to access the Colosseum. Magnificent visit to the Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill. Of great beauty.

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Exceptional Colosseum Guided Tour

Colosseum Sunset Tour with Entry

4.4/5

1K+ Review

€49

GetYourGuide

Instant confirmation
Colosseum entry included
Guided tour in multiple languages
Sunset access during golden hour
Non-refundable

Simply put, incredible!!!! Marta led an amazing tour for us! She was so thorough and had incredible visuals to add context along the way! It was the perfect amount of time, paced so well, and we learned so much.

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Top-Rated Colosseum + Arena Access Tour

Colosseum, Arena Floor, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill + Guided Tour

4.7/5

2.1K+ Reviews

€69

Tiqets

Colosseum + Arena floor access
Multilingual Expert Guide
Duration 3 Hours
Non-refundable

Our guide Barbie was terrific. She was very knowledgeable, friendly and funny! Absolutely recommend this tour.

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Exclusive Colosseum Underground + Arena Tour

Colosseum Guided Tour with Arena Underground

4.6/5

4.3K+ Reviews

€143

Headout

Underground + Arena floor access
Guided tour
Duration 1-3 Hours
Non-refundable

Marketa was a fantastic guide and teacher. The underground/arena floor was our favorite part of the colosseum itself

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Top-Value Half-Day Colosseum + Vatican Combo Tour

Combo (Save 19%): Colosseum + Vatican Museums Guided Tour

4.4/5

32.2K+ Reviews

€90.92

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Instant Confirmation
Colosseum, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Access
Multilingual Expert Local Guide
No Cancellation Or Rebooking

Both guides (Sandra and Edy) were amazing, knew a lot, they were really nice, funny and relaxed.

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Top-Value Full-Day Colosseum + Vatican + St. Peter’s Tour

Rome in a Day: Vatican Museums & Colosseum Guided Tour

4.4/5

1.7K+ Reviews

€159

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Instant Confirmation
Combo Deal
Duration 9 Hours
Guided Tour
No Cancellation

Both guides, Nico (tour to Colosseo, Foron romano and Palattino) and Oscar (Tour to Vaticano museum, Capilla Sixtina and Basilica San Pedro) were great, they made a fantastic tour, very informative and funny. Thanks.

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Top-Value Colosseum Entry

Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum Access

4.3/5 (14.4K+ Reviews)

Enter the huge Colosseum, the world’s largest arena and today’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, where gladiators clashed in epic battles for glory. Prioritize access to Floors 1 and 2, immersing yourself in the echoes of ancient combat.
Venture into the heart of Rome at the Roman Forum, a nexus of political and commercial life adorned with historic ruins.
Ascend Palatine Hill, the city’s birthplace, for panoramic views revealing the roots of the Roman Empire.

Priority Entry To Colosseum Floors 1 & 2
Entry To Roman Forum
Entry To Palatine Hill
Digital Audio Guide In 6 Languages (Optional)
Audio-video Device In 6 Languages (Optional)
Digital Rome City Audio Guide (Optional)
Entry To Mamertine Prison (Optional)

Meeting point: Colosseum, Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma; Go to the “Individual Entrance Gate” and further to the “Visitors With Reservations” line.

Starting time: Depending on desired day and month, you’ll need to choose a time slot for entry.

Duration: Flexible. Your ticket is valid 24 hours after first use.

5* Elizabeth, Nov, 2023 [Source: Headout]

It was so simple to use and we had the best day ever! So easy to find with the information on the app and it was the easiest thing ever!

5* Camila, Nov, 2023 [Source: Headout]

The entrance was quick, we were able to walk around the entire Colosseum and take pictures. The monument itself is fantastic. The audios were a great help for the tour.

Starting at €17.98

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Headout

Instant Confirmation
Book now, pay later
Access to Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill
No Cancellation

Bestselling Colosseum Entry with Multimedia Video

Rome: Colosseum and Roman Forum with Multimedia Video

4/5 (12.9K+ Reviews)

Commence a journey to the heart of ancient Rome with entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

Immerse yourself in the ambiance of daily life in ancient Rome with a captivating 30-minute multimedia video. Prior to your exploration, delve into the historical context through this visual narrative. Wander through the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site, where gladiator fights, executions, and animal hunts once unfolded.

Enjoy the flexibility of a self-guided tour through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, unraveling the layers of history at your own pace. Optional audio guides in seven languages are available to enhance your experience.

Access To Colosseum
Access To Roman Forum
Access To Palatine Hill
Ancient Rome Multimedia Video
Audio Guide In 7 Languages (Optional)
Assistance At The Meeting Point

Meeting point: Touristation Office, Piazza Ara Coeli, 16; Here, you need to exchange your voucher.

Starting time: Select your preferred starting time, available from 9 AM to 2 PM, every hour

Duration: 3 hours

5* Mernier – Belgium, November 3, 2023 – Verified booking

Very easy place to collect our tickets and then pass without any queue to access the Colosseum. Magnificent visit to the Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill. Of great beauty.

5* GetYourGuide traveler – Belgium, November 1, 2023 – Verified booking

The audio guide is very interesting to progress at your own pace and at your ease, I recommend it with children.

Starting at €24

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GetYourGuide

Instant Confirmation
Duration 3 hours
Access To Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
30-minute Ancient Rome Multimedia Video
No Cancellation Or Rebooking

Exceptional Colosseum Guided Tour

Colosseum Sunset Tour with Entry

4.4 / 5 (1K+ Reviews)

Experience Rome’s most iconic monument during the magical golden hour, when the fading sunlight adds a dramatic glow to the Colosseum’s ancient stone.

This 1 to 1.5-hour guided tour, available in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, Arabic, Persian, and Portuguese, lets you bypass the long lines.

Your expert guide will lead you through the 2,000-year-old amphitheater’s dramatic past, revealing the secrets of Roman engineering, gladiator battles, and imperial spectacle as the sun sets over the Eternal City.

Entry to the Colosseum
1 to 1.5-hour guided tour

Not included:

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting point:

Starting Point: Via della Polveriera 8, 00184 Rome (Crown Tours Office) – just 100 meters from the Colosseum. Show your smartphone voucher at the meeting point. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early.

Important: A valid photo ID is required for entry. If the personal data on your booking is incorrect, access to the Colosseum will be denied.

Duration: 3 hours

“Our guide Barbie was terrific. She was very knowledgeable, friendly and funny! Absolutely recommend this tour. The pace is good, information is excellent and location just magical.” Paul, April 2025

Starting at €49

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GetYourGuide

Instant confirmation
Colosseum entry included
Guided tour in multiple languages
Sunset access during golden hour
Non-refundable

Top-Rated Colosseum + Arena Access Tour

Colosseum, Arena Floor, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill + Guided Tour

4.7/5 (2.1K+ Reviews)

Experience Ancient Rome on a 3-hour guided tour with exclusive access to the Colosseum’s Arena Floor, plus in-depth visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Led by a licensed guide in your chosen language, this small-group tour (max 30 people) brings the gladiators’ world vividly to life.

Entry to the Colosseum
Entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Admission to Arena Floor
Guided tour
Headset to hear the guide

Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours

Languages offered: English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, Arabic, Persian, Portuguese

Starting time: Check availability; sunset varies by season

Meeting Point: Provided upon booking, may vary by option

Please Note: All visitors must pass a mandatory security check (no skip-the-line at security).

Important: Bring a valid ID or passport. Not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with mobility issues

“Simply put, incredible!!!! Marta led an amazing tour for us! She was so thorough and had incredible visuals to add context along the way! It was the perfect amount of time, paced so well, and we learned so much.” – Dana, May 2025

Starting at €69

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Tiqets

Colosseum + Arena floor access
Multilingual Expert Guide
Duration 3 Hours
Non-refundable

Exclusive Colosseum Underground + Arena Tour

Colosseum Guided Tour with Underground & Arena Floor

4.6/5 (4.3K+ Reviews)

Go beyond the ordinary with this exclusive guided tour of the Colosseum, including rare access to the Underground and Arena Floor. Walk the hidden tunnels where gladiators prepared for battle, then step onto the Arena itself.

Opt to complete your journey through Ancient Rome with a guided visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Entry to the Colosseum tier 1 & 2 and Museum
Guided tour of the Colosseum & Underground
Admission to the Colosseum Arena Floor
Admission to the Colosseum Underground
English, Portuguese, French, Italian, or Spanish-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Guided tour of Palatine Hill & Roman Forum with priority access (as per option selected)
Headset to hear the guide

Meeting Point: Please present your voucher on your mobile phone along with a valid photo ID at the meeting point specified in your confirmation email.

Important: A valid photo ID is required. If the name or personal data is incorrect, entry will be denied.

“Marketa was a fantastic guide and teacher. The underground/arena floor was our favorite part of the colosseum itself, but we were not ready for the beauty of Palatine Hill and its views. We had a fantastic group and Marketa made it a very special day.” Harold, July 2025

Starting at €143

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Headout

Colosseum Guided Tour
Underground + Arena floor access
Duration 1-3 Hours
Non-refundable

Top-Value Half-Day Colosseum + Vatican Combo Tour

Combo (Save 19%): Colosseum + Vatican Museums Guided Tour

4.4/5 (32.2K+ Reviews)

Embark on an extraordinary Roman experience with this combo deal, ensuring exclusive entry to the UNESCO World Heritage site Colosseum, Palantine Hill, Roman Forum, Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel.

Guided in six languages, bypass queues at the huge Colosseum, delving into its tumultuous history. Then, stroll through the historic Roman Forum, the epicenter of ancient political and economic life and climb the Palatine Hill for breathtaking panoramic views, uncovering the origins of the Roman Empire.

Switch over to the Vatican Museums, exploring notable sections like the Gallery of Tapestries and Geographical Maps. Witness Michelangelo’s iconic Sistine Chapel frescoes depicting the Last Judgment and the Creation of Adam.

Guided tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
Colosseum: Expert local English, Italian, Spanish, French or German-speaking guide
Access to the Colosseum floors 1 and 2
Access to Palantine Hill and & Roman Forum
Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with entry

Meeting point:
Colosseum: Colosseo, Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Musei Vaticani, Viale Vaticano, 00120 Vatican City

Starting Time: Select your preferred time slot.

Duration: 6 Hours

5* Iva, Nov, 2023 [Source: Headout]

Both guides (Sandra and Edy) were amazing, knew a lot, they were really nice, funny and relaxed. It looked as if it was the first time they were giving a tour, that’s how enthusiastic they were. I would recommend it to everyone.

5* Nicolas, Nov, 2023 [Source: Headout]

Dr. Alicia Esteban demonstrated extensive knowledge and experience in every detail observed and at the same time each question she answered with a consistent and detailed response. Should I return to Rome I would definitely want to have Alicia again.

Starting at €90.92

Check Availability

Headout

Instant Confirmation
Combo deal
Access to Colosseum, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Multilingual Guide
No Cancellation

Top-Value Full-Day Colosseum + Vatican + St. Peter’s Tour

Rome in a Day: Vatican Museums & Colosseum Guided Tour

4.4/5 (1.7K +Reviews)

Experience the best of Rome with this “Rome in a Day” package, ensuring exclusive entry to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Guided with your expert guide, bypass queues at the Vatican Museums, exploring notable sections like the Gallery of Tapestries and Geographical Maps. Witness Michelangelo’s iconic Sistine Chapel frescoes depicting the Last Judgment and the Creation of Adam.

Transition seamlessly to the Renaissance-style St. Peter’s Basilica, with its opulent Baroque interiors.

Move effortlessly to Palatine Hill for panoramic views, discovering the origins of the Roman Empire. Explore the world-famous Colosseum, delving into its tumultuous history, and finally, stroll through the historic Roman Forum, the epicenter of ancient political and economic life.

Full-day guided tour of Rome
English-speaking expert guide
Access to the Colosseum floors 1 & 2
Access to Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
Access to Vatican Museums
Access to St. Peter’s Basilica
Headsets
Access to Sistine Chapel

Meeting point: Please check your final voucher for the meeting point details and specific instructions

Starting time: Select your preferred starting time.

Duration: 9 hours

5* Vicente, Dec, 2022

5* Grace, Aug, 2022

This tour was absolutely incredible. The Vatican and Colosseum tours were so well organized and efficient. As a group you are able to bypass the lines of people with individual tickets. We had an amazing tour guides at both places and learned so much. The tour guides are so knowledgeable and really given insider information. I would highly recommend this tour for anyone going to Rome.

Starting at €159

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Headout

Instant Confirmation
Combo Deal
Duration 9 Hours
Guided Tour
No Cancellation

FAQ – Inside the Colosseum

Yes, you can visit the Colosseum and explore its interior. However, you will need to secure admission to enter this popular UNESCO heritage site. Guided tours are also available, providing more in-depth information about the Colosseum’s history and architecture.

>> Find the top-rated entry options and guided tours here.

Absolutely! Entering the Colosseum allows you to truly experience the scale and grandeur of the structure and gain a deeper understanding of its history and function. Additionally, the Colosseum offers stunning views of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. However, if you’re on a tight schedule or have limited mobility, you might prefer to explore the Colosseum from the outside.

Stepping inside the Colosseum, you’ll find yourself gazing upon the vast arena floor, where gladiators once clashed and wild animals roamed. Beneath your feet lies the Hypogeum, a hidden network of tunnels and chambers – he gladiators’ world, complete with holding cells, animal cages, and even machinery for staging elaborate spectacles. Look up, and you’ll see the tiers of seating that once accommodated 50,000 spectators, with the Emperor enjoying a privileged view from his private box. There is also the Colosseum Museum, showcasing authentic armor, ancient weapons, archaeological excavations, and other items that provide a comprehensive understanding of the Colosseum’s cultural and historical context.

Yes, you can take pictures inside the Colosseum for personal use. Photography is generally allowed throughout the interior, including the arena floor, Hypogeum, and seating tiers. However, keep in mind that Tripods and other professional photography equipment are not allowed unless you have obtained a special permit beforehand. This is to avoid obstructing other visitors and for the preservation of the monument. Flash photography is also discouraged as it can damage the artwork and be disruptive to other visitors.

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