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My husband was able to score tickets for the summer night tour of the Colosseum. It was perfect. I can't imagine being able to enjoy it during the day in this heat wave. It was so cool to be able to go underground and be so close to ancient history.
I've always loved reading about Roman history, so finally seeing the Colosseum in person this October was incredible. Even in the "off season," it was busy, which shows how high up the list it is for any visitor. Walking through the structure and looking down into the arena from above, I could really picture the energy of the crowds and the events that once took place there. The Colosseum is huge, up to 50,000 people once packed inside, and it was used for all sorts of public spectacles, not just gladiator fights. I'd recommend taking a guided tour if you can; it helps skip the ticket line and gives context that really adds to the experience. Also, make sure to explore the area around it--the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are right next door and worth the time. If you're in Rome and even a little curious about history, the Colosseum is absolutely worth seeing. It really brings ancient Rome to life.
Beginning in the eighth century B.C., ancient Rome grew from a small town on central Italy's Tiber River into an empire that at its peak encompassed most of continental Europe, Britain, much of western Asia, northern Africa, and the Mediterranean islands. Nowhere on Earth captures the spectacle of ancient Rome quite like the Colosseum. Towering above the eastern edge of the Roman Forum, covering more than six acres, the Colosseum remains one of the world's most famous architectural marvels and is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, where my partner, our friends, family member, and I were able to obtain 8:30am entry for self-guided exploration of the first and second levels but not to the arena floor where the gladiators fought. The ticket also includes visits to the Roman Forum, the Imperial Forum, and the Palatine Hill. Upon arrival, as one walks around the outside, one senses how huge it is, measuring approximately 620 feet in length, 513 feet in width, and over 160 feet in height, with an efficient network of arches, corridors, and staircases to accommodate rapid filling and evacuation for more than 50,000 people. To enter, one must arrive 15 minutes before the time specified on the ticket. However, it was crowded in mid-September during the week, which would be overwhelming, particularly around peak hours. On the other hand, the line for security checks was short. It looked very simple on the outside, but it has a very complex interior structure. One can see a lot from the first ring: the center stage/games area; the seating sections reserved for the emperor, the vestal virgins, and the senators; an overview of the now-exposed underground facilities; and the walls of rising seats above you. It can also get crowded here, and one might have to wait for visitors to move on to get a clear viewpoint. This is a building that captured our imagination since its construction and continues to be this symbol of Rome's power, of Rome's brilliance, which we can recommend.
Needless to say, this is a must see whenever you're in Rome even if you don't plan on going inside! I walked or ran by it almost every day when I was in town to run the Rome Marathon. Even what's left of it was an awesome structure to see in person! Be sure to bring your patience as the surrounding areas will be crowded with tourists and more tourists!
Last time I was here was 12 years ago- so much history! The view at night is gorgeous . Make sure to visit the gladiator arena
Came at the end of November of 2025, and it was crowded most of the time had a line to go everywhere. The normal pass has limited access: only to the ground level and to go around the colosseo. The view is majestic and the architecture is full of details and its surprising that it was done centuries ago... Definitely worth coming to this place!
It was a good visit to the Colosseo. Overall it was quick and easy to access and easy to follow. I recommend coming by while in Rome. There's different levels of the Colosseo and you can get different views of it. Overall great stop!
This might be one of the busiest tourist attractions in the world. You need to be physically and mentally prepared for long lines and wait times. We booked a tour through a 3rd party, and were spared much of that waiting, at a cost. That said, once we were inside, the history and nostalgia were captivating. Truly a highlight in my life. Did you know that il Colosseo was once covered in polished marble, and that it was stripped to build out the Vatican?
The Colosseum -- come for the history, stay because you're still waiting to hear "Are you not entertained?" echo through the stone. If you want to feel small, insignificant, and totally wowed, step inside the Colosseum. Pictures don't prepare you. This thing is massive. The ancient Romans didn't just build stadiums -- they built a statement, and nearly 2,000 years later it's still standing stronger than half the hotels on the Vegas strip. History check: Construction kicked off under Emperor Vespasian in AD 72, and his son Titus wrapped it up in AD 80. It could hold somewhere between 50,000-80,000 screaming Romans, all of them showing up to watch gladiators, wild animal hunts, mock naval battles, and a few thousand other events that would make modern NFL games look like a church picnic. And here's the kicker: they've done an incredible job refurbishing the inside. New exhibits line the corridors, the underground hypogeum (the maze where fighters and lions waited their turn) has been restored and opened for tours, and they even added a modern elevator so you can get between levels without feeling like you're on a gladiator training montage. With the restorations and displays, this isn't just a "walk in, take a selfie, walk out" situation -- it's a full-day affair. The scale of it makes you pause. You're walking where emperors stood, looking up at arches that have survived earthquakes, wars, looting, and centuries of tourists. You realize the Colosseum is less a ruin and more a survivor. And no, Russell Crowe wasn't there. I checked. "It's brutal, it's beautiful, it's Rome distilled -- glory and gore, still standing." Bottom line: Between the restoration work, the exhibits, and the sheer atmosphere, the Colosseum isn't just a bucket-list item -- it's a bucket that overflows.
The Colosseum is Rome's original multipurpose arena, brought to you by 1st-century imperial ego and a bloodlust budget that would make Hollywood blush. Built in eight years, because apparently slave labor and divine confidence are the ultimate project management tools. It's officially called the Flavian Amphitheater, but let's be honest "Colosseum" just sounds cooler. Probably because it was built next to a colossal statue of Nero, who thought the best way to be remembered was to build a 100-foot-tall bronze version of himself. What a humble guy. Anyway, the Colosseum. It's big. It's round(ish). It's missing a few chunks thanks to earthquakes, vandals, and that one time the Catholic Church thought it'd make a great quarry. Yes, parts of your local church may literally be made from ancient death-sport arena scraps. Blessings all around. Some for you, some for me. Inside? Back in the day, it seated 50,000 people who came to watch their favorite Netflix series: Live Gladiator Fights, Season Infinity. Lions? Check. Naval battles? Yup, they flooded the place. Prisoners forced to reenact mythology with a 100% fatality rate? That's dinner and a show. Modern visitors are now obsessed with its bones, snapping selfies while ignoring the fact that this is essentially a 2,000-year-old murder dome. And yet, there's something romantic about it. Probably because nothing says "eternal city" like scaffolding and a souvenir vendor catcalling tourists in broken English including me. So yes, go see the Colosseum. Take in the grandeur. But please remember humanity's timeless thirst for spectacle and egoism.
The Colosseum in Rome is known for being the world's largest amphitheater ever built and largest one standing in the world! Built between 72-80 AD on the site of Nero's Golden Palace. It only took 8 years to build and notably no concrete was used to build the main structure. 85,000 people could fit in it! It's where everyone went to watch gladiator fights and mock sea battles. It had 24 manual operated elevators to transport animals. It has 80 entrances and underground tunnels and chambers called Hypogeum. One of the 8 wonders of the world and amazing both inside and out!! Very amazing to see the architecture and walk on the path of past victors and losers!
The Colosseum is the most incredible thing I've ever seen on this planet. Nothing prepares you for standing in front of it in real life. The scale, the power, the history, everything about it is absolutely breathtaking. You can feel the history the moment you step inside. Knowing what happened there centuries ago gives you literal shivers. It's emotional, intense, and awe-inspiring all at once. Every stone tells a story, and it makes you feel so small in the best way possible. This is not just a landmark, it's an experience that stays with you forever. If you come to Rome and don't see the Colosseum, you missed everything. Rating: 10/10 -- unforgettable, unreal, legendary
The colosseum is one of the wonders of the world and is a must see when in Rome. We arrived late and were questioned about it and were asked to show proof as to why. We came in the afternoon on a summer, so it was hot. We walked around and admired the feat of human engineering. Afterwards, we made our way to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (included in ticket).
Guys, it's the Colosseum. Obviously you're going to go there, and I don't think it really needs a review. I will say, however, that when I got there I was approached by a nice English man who offered a tour in English with a "skip the line" addition. The price wasn't bad and I was traveling alone, so why not. It also included the areas across from the Colosseum - Palatine Hill and the Forum. The tour guide for the Colosseum part was underwhelming, but there was a different guide for the other parts and he was great. He also offered his own tours and I decided to go on one of his the next day. It may seem a little sketchy, but if you're feeling spontaneous, why not! read more
4 years ago
8 years ago
I mean, it's the Colosseo! Impressive, interesting and totally worth a visit to even with all the tourists. We bought tickets from a guide right outside the gate (only about 50% concerned we were being scammed) but he ended up being great, skipped the line to get in, walked us around everything, gave us time to explore independently and then brought us over to the Roman Forum. Don't skip it, it's totally worth a visit. read more
8 years ago
11 years ago
8 years ago
Never thought I'd be here. Sprung for the underground tour with Fabrizio "The" Tour Guide of Rome and I'm so glad as he explained the rich history. This place is an engineering marvel. read more
8 years ago
It was amazing! Huge! Did the tour with the guide very informative and a lot of knowledge of the history. read more
12 years ago
I visited the colosseum almost one year ago on my Contiki. This was one of the places I had wanted to visit my entire life. I love history and this was an amazing experience. Our group went in with a local guide, and that was the way to go! He walked us through the history and pointed out plenty of facts that I would never have known otherwise. There was a wonderful display along the outer rim showcasing ancient artifacts. If you are in Rome, this is a must do. You won't regret it. read more
12 years ago
My strongest recommendation for visiting the Colosseum is to pay a little extra for a "skip the line" tour -- I found a company called City Wonders, and having an experienced tour guide (and skipping the line!) added to the experience immensely. She was able to point out things (the toilet!) that I never would have noticed on my own. Also, the Colosseum looks amazing at night -- if you have time, see it once during the day for your tour, then return later in the evening for some great night photos. If feels somewhat strange giviing a landmark like the Colosseum a star rating, but if any structure deserves five stars I guess it's this one. read more
11 years ago
Beautiful & breathtaking, nothing like seeing it for yourself as opposed to on TV. A must see while in Rome! read more
8 years ago
Book this trip from an affordable ticket company before arriving and bypass the line! I recommend buying a ticket before the 10am entrance time Buy an audio/video guide when you get there for 6euros . That also provide you with the heads phones! read more
9 years ago
It being my first time in Rome, of course I couldn't pass up the opportunity to visit the renown and historical Colosseo. It's one thing to learn about the Colosseum in history class and it's a whole different experience getting to visit, see and touch the landmark. It's honestly breathtaking and I'm grateful that I had the chance to see it in person. It's pretty cool how they were able to preserve the massive structure and so many others throughout the old city. I would say if you have spare time on your trip to Rome, this is a must see! P.S. Don't let the people trying to sell you stuff in the area interfere with your experience, they are just trying to make a living and sell their stuff to tourist haha. read more
11 years ago
The lines are crazy so we got one of those unofficial tourist to guide us. Totally worth it. lots of walking but they described everything in detail. Plus, they have tour guides in different languages. Dont forget to ask for student discount read more
10 years ago
No words are needed to describe this attraction. My strong recommendation is that you take a guided tour of the upper ring and underground... It's not expensive and far superior to just trying to see it in your own. read more
Feels very funny rating the Coliseum but it's obviously a must to visit in Rome. I went with a group tour and we had a reservation- definitely recommended as you wait in a shorter line, and we were able to have a guided tour with history and explanation of everything we saw. So much better than wandering around alone without details about what you're looking at. Did this paired with the Forum and it was wonderful. Definitely recommend going up the stairs to the top for a view of the entire Coliseum. read more
8 years ago
8 years ago
8 years ago
An absolute must see/experience for any traveler to Rome. The history behind the Coliseum and the surrounding area is incredible. No matter what part of the world one is from, it is moving. Besides going inside for the normal tour, I would highly recommend booking in advanced (days ahead) and do the underground tour. The tour is limited to small groups of 25, so book early. It is worth it! read more
The mere fact that we walked along the trails of ancient Rome was in itself AMAZING. The place is very well laid out. This should take you all of two hours to really get your fill. Thereafter, those ancient stone become just ROCKs. read more
8 years ago
13 years ago
Of course I loved seeing the Colosseo, and was in awe just being there. But really I just wanted to write this review to give some tips for fellow travelers :) Oh, the only reason I subtracted one star is because hundreds of people have carved their names in the columns inside. I wish this was monitored somehow.. it's so rude and defaces something with such history! Anyway, for the tips. If you can, buy your tickets ahead of time online. I bought mine from OmniTicket, which is in Italian but can be translated by Google Translate (should give you the option at the top of the page when you open it). It was easy and I just printed them out and brought them on the trip (print on A4 paper). We walked right past the extremely long line and were instantly in the Colosseo - very convenient! You can also buy tickets at the entrance to the Forum, and that line was about two people long (not the hill next to the Colosseum, that's the exit.. but further down the street from the Arch of Constantine). Also bring snacks if you plan to do the Forum as both can take a long time - there are only a few street vendors nearby and they are pricey! read more
8 years ago
8 years ago
Out of this world place to visit. Definitely get the ticket to jump the queue and don't go when it's boiling hot, you'll regret wanting to leave so quickly. If in Rome... read more
8 years ago
9 years ago
Breathtaking monument! From far or close. Recommend to go on the winter less people and wait time! read more
8 years ago
A Roman must! Book early and do the official tour with underground...our guides were amazing, both Italian graduate students of history. We opted for the all out tour which did all levels of the Colosseo and included a near 2 hr tour of the Forum and gorgeous Palantine Hill. read more
8 years ago
Visiting the Colosseum was a lifetime dream come true for me and it didn't disappoint. Having a tour guide was an extra bonus because there are so many things about the Colosseum we would have never known without a great local guide to fill us in on all the history and back stories. It was definitely a "bucket list" experience. read more
9 years ago
Wow! It was a dream come true to visit the majestic Colosseum!! It is so beautiful! There is so much history here, you must take the tour if you are visiting for the first time. It will help you skip the long lines and also provide you with the information you are looking for. We were completely awestruck! Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. It gets really hot here, especially during summer when we were visiting. The Colosseo is nicely lit up in the evening. A must-visit place in Rome! read more
9 years ago
11 years ago
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