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Colosseum is definitely one of the most impressive historical places in Rome and absolutely worth visiting at least once. Seeing it in real life after watching it in movies and documentaries feels completely different. The size, architecture, and history are incredible. For entry, arriving about 15 minutes earlier is enough. In our case it was organized and not as chaotic as expected. Also, having an ID card or passport photo on your phone is important. At night the Colosseum becomes illuminated and looks really beautiful from outside too, so even walking around it in the evening is a great experience. It was truly beautiful. Inside, the atmosphere is very different from seeing photos online. You can really feel the scale of Ancient Rome when standing there!!! I'm still in complete awwww, another bucket list experience checked off .
The moment you approach its towering arches, the sheer scale of the structure becomes overwhelming. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this massive amphitheater still dominates the Roman skyline, a reminder of an empire that once ruled much of the known world. As you walk through its entrances...once part of a system of numbered archways that guided tens of thousands of spectators. You begin to imagine the roar of a crowd that could once reach up to 50,000 or more, gathered to witness activities ranging from gladiatorial combat to elaborate public performances. Inside, the Colosseum reveals both grandeur and ruin. The arena floor, now partially exposed, uncovers the hypogeum...the intricate network of underground chambers where gladiators and animals once waited before entering the arena. Standing there, it's impossible not to feel a mix of awe and unease. This was a place of entertainment, but also of extensive human struggle and suffering, where thousands of lives were lost for sport centuries of use. Architecturally, the Colosseum is spectacular...Its elliptical design, rising multiple stories high and constructed from stone, concrete, and brick, speaks volumes about Roman engineering excellence. Even in its weathered state...damaged by earthquakes and centuries of reuse...it still remains one of the most l impressive structures ever created. Yet, what makes the Colosseum truly unforgettable is not just its size or history...it's the emotional experience it evokes. As sunlight filters through broken arches and shadows stretch across ancient stone, the monument feels alive with memories. You can almost hear the distant clash of swords, the crowd's anticipation, and the commanding presence of emperors who once presided over these events. Today, the Colosseum stands as a powerful symbol of ingenuity, resilience, and the complexity of human history. It is both an enigma, a place where beauty and brutality coexisted. Its enduring presence continues to captivate millions of visitors each year, reminding us how deeply the past is woven into our present.
Can't visit Rome without seeing the colosseum. It is an amazing place and with the historical significance to the beginning of this period in history it really makes you think how power can corrupt a government ,the gladiators fights were put on to have society in those days focus on that and forget the taxes and a corrupt senate. Makes you think how we are not so far removed today. However enough political history, one of the greatest structures ever built and still standing.
So nice to be back here but I must say it's a bit frustrating coming for a visit now. My first time around we did a tour & it was easier, not bad. My most recent visit we didn't have a tour seems like these days that's the mistake. Having a tour gives u better access versus not a lot of places & areas u can't access unless u have a tour guide which honestly makes for a crappy experience. Of course this place is amazing, such history it's wild to be inside & see how well this structure has held up but the crowds & restrictions if u are not w a tour are pretty annoying. This is an amazing historical building & certainly worth visiting hard to avoid the crowds here but u can do better w a tour so at least no restrictions. U can still walk around enough to be able to see I mean let's face it not everyone can do a tour it is not necessary but it does help.
As someone who hates crowds, it was hard to pass on one of the world's most historical landmarks--the Colosseum. I originally planned to just see the outside, but with some extra time, I decided if fate allows,, to schedule some time inside. Unfortunately, if you're trying to book directly through the official site, tickets are typically sold out in advance. However, you might get lucky with booking through a third-party like Viator. Yes, it's more expensive and usually includes a guide and timed entry, but it's worth it. Even though the Colosseum is only about two-thirds original, it's incredible to think about the history that lives here. I wish they had more visual guides or reconstructions to help you picture what it once looked like--it would make the experience feel more real. NOTE: Make sure to have your ID or passport with you, as they do check upon entry. I'm not sure how the standard ticketing process compares, but since I booked a guided tour, we were able to skip the line without any issues, which made a big difference.
It's a must-do, even if it's a tourist classic. Arrival at the top of the hill is kind of a nightmare with scammers and sellers all over the place - please just ignore them and don't engage with them, it will make your life easier. Otherwise, it seems they keep them away from the actual area of the forum, colosseum, and old city area because they don't seem to bother you there. It's surprising how cool it is and how much it affects you to actually see this in person so despite it being a touristy thing, it's something you just have to go see.
I have been here several times over the years and always am amazed at the enormity and complexity it took to build this historical structure. Being an engineer I definitely appreciate how long it takes to build any big structure in the US using commercial grade hydraulic lifts and cranes and thinking what ingenuity and building skills the Romans had to build such structure and for it to survive so many centuries. Truly amazing. I wonder how many of our skyscrapers we have built will be around a 1000 years from now. Come on you know the answer (:
The Colosseum was absolutely unbelievable. Everything about it was five star. The reason for the four star rating was the protocols, staff, etc. There was no signage outside, so we waited in the security line for 15 minutes and then they tell us at the metal detectors that were supposed to be on the other side for the special floor access entrance. Then we had special tickets for the attic which wasn't supposed to be till noon so we asked if we could get up there at like 10 and they said it was very busy, but they could probably squeeze us in. And then we get up there and there was less than 10 people in the whole attic area which was like three levels of balconies for viewing... A total Ghost Town. Then upon exiting, we were trying to go out the exit for the floor access and the lady tried not letting us go out that way unless we had our tickets with us still... What is happening here... We are just trying to leave the Colosseum... What difference does it make! So the staff there's trying to sour the experience.
I've always loved Roman history, so visiting the Colosseum this past October was a big moment for me. Even in the "off season," it was really busy, but that just shows how essential this spot is for visitors. Walking through the structure and seeing the arena from above really gave me a sense of what it might have felt like when the crowds were roaring, and the energy was intense. The place is huge and impressive, and while a lot of people know about the gladiators, I learned that the Colosseum was used for all kinds of events. I recommend taking a guided tour -- it helped with skipping the long lines and gave more context that made the visit even better. Also, make sure to walk around the outside area. The nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are right there and worth exploring. If you're in Rome and have any interest in history or just want to see something unforgettable, definitely add the Colosseum to your list.
Another amazing experience. I am so happy I made it here. I did this solo (no tour) and I am glad I did it that way. I was able to enjoy this experience at my own pace on my own time. Breathtaking architectural site and to see it and experience it is just awesome, NOT TO MENTION OF ONE OF THE WONDERS OF THE WORLD I purchased my ticket for this on line a few weeks before my trip and that process is very easy. I recommend doing that. Also be mindful that the time slot you pick when purchasing your ticket is the real time they allow you to enter So if your ticket is for 10am entrance you cannot enter before that time. I saw a lot of people being turned away and told to return at the time on their ticket.
Oh my god!!! You have my heart. I'm glad it stayed right next to it so I throughly enjoyed it morning evening and night. Massive yet elegant it breathes life into history, making the echoes of gladiatorial games and public spectacles feel almost real. Just breathtaking. My favorite was waking up and grabbing a hot coffee at a cafe right in front. This time of the year wasn't crazy busy and I highly recommend going now. It tends to get crowded, so arrive early. Buying skip-the-line tickets is worth it. Without saying the history and atmosphere make it a must-visit in Rome. Just the structure makes you almost feel that this is not man made so powerful and impressive not just for its size but for how well it has endured over time. Its strength and symmetry reflect the brilliance of Roman engineering. I highly recommend taking a guided tour, having a meal or coffee in front of the colosseum. Also a scooter ride just around the structure-we did that and it was beyond fun. Purchase your tickets online before you go-same day walk-ups often mean long lines or sold out slots, especially in peak season.
A slice of history right here. I recommend that you see this, even on the outside if you don't want to go in. I want to take a moment to address the security measures as patrons have to go through two checkpoints with metal detectors and scanners. I think three ticket scans. I was with a tour group and lost my belt in the scanner machine and had to decide whether to stay with my group or look for my belt. I chose to stay with the group. I went on a guided tour and got to go through the tunnels underneath the colosseum where gladiators and animals were once held. This shows where levers and pulleys were used like an elevator to raise to the colosseum floor. I also got to go around the seating area and colosseum floor. It was hard for me to believe that the colosseum floor was wood, covered with sand and they could actually flood the floor with water to have ship battles.
3 years ago
I will preface by saying I did not go inside the Colosseum but walked around the outside in the evening. It's such a beautiful sight, I wish I had taken the night tour, I will definitely do that next time I visit. The outside was bustling with people just gazing at its awesomeness. I think this is one of the few places in Rome I regret not spending more time. I don't think I would enjoy the day tour but the night tour includes the underground portion of the colosseum which sounds fascinating. read more
3 years ago
Incredible view, well worth the visit if you are in Italy. Loved seeing it in day and in night. read more
2 years ago
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7 years ago
An incredible experience and must see for first timers in Rome like myself! I highly recommend a guided tour to avoid long lines to get in and for more detailed history lessons, plus you'll skip past everyone in line. Although there is a lot of restoration taking place, it's still worth seeing on your visit! read more
3 years ago
The line is the worst part of the experience- the sheer number of people who are waiting in line to witness the colosseum certainly explains why it is such a popular feature of any roman postcard! Taking off a star because of the crowds- wish I'd gotten a chance to go at a less busy time. I've been twice- once as a small trip and once with a larger group. Getting to go inside was a little underwhelming given the long wait, but actually getting to see the inside and learn the mind-blowing facts like how the space used to be flooded with water for naval-themed gladiator fights was insane! Pro-tip: avoid going in the summer if you'd like to keep your skin. read more
4 years ago
I believe most people are familiar with this beautiful landmark. Just being here and looking at this structure feels different and good. Whether inside or outside, this landmark and its history took breath away. We had an amazing tour. We took our time once inside and enjoyed the museum section first. Then we went up in the stands and went around the whole thing. Truly incredible. The whole tour here took us about 1.5 hours. But the ticket also includes the Roman forum which is next to the colosseum and that is also an amazing tour. Highly recommended read more
1 year ago
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4 years ago
What else can be said? It's the Colosseum. You've heard about this place everywhere, now make the effort to go see this place in person. You might think this place is worth skipping because of the crowds. Don't do that. This is one of those places you have to see at least once in your lifetime. I came here on a very hot June afternoon with a group. While I do not remember our tour guide's name, the guide did a fantastic job at explaining us the history behind the Colosseum and keeping us entertained. They were professional, kind and funny at times too. I'd recommend you get involved in a guided walking tour here so you can truly see all that the Colosseum has to offer. Speaking of which, be sure to bring WATER and WALKING SHOES. You will thank me later. Given I came here with a group, I do not know what admission prices are like so this review will not cover that part. A security check is of course required before entering the facilities. All in all, an excellent experience since I was wowed by the architecture and the history that was surrounding me at the time. A must see when in Rome - and for good reasons too! read more
3 years ago
7 years ago
The Coliseum is one of those "must see" things if you ever visit Rome. However, it's more of a one time thing. I was not really impressed with the size of the structure because it was much smaller than I initially expected but apparently it's only 1/3 of its original size because the other 2/3 was destroyed. Make sure that you are alert when you visit the Coliseum and walking around it because there are a lot of con artists out there trying to get your money by telling you a sob story. Long story short, if a stranger is being overly friendly outside a tourist attraction, 99% of the time they will ask you for money right after trying to give you a "friendship" bracelet or telling you a story about how he or she has no money to feed their baby at home. This has happened to my friends and I on different occasions when we visited tourist attractions in Europe. read more
4 years ago
Absolutely stunning to visit such a historic site. It was a privilege to stand on the same places people walked hundreds of years ago. I was shocked to see what disrepair the Colosseum was in but I was happy to learn it was being repaired. read more
6 years ago
There's nothing like it in the world. The history is phenomenal. The workers are nice. If you go, you need to invest in the Skip the Line. You could wait over 2 hours, so it's worth it. read more
This review is for the service I experienced during my visit to the coliseum. The place itself is magnificent! I just wish the people who works their does not overbooked and over crowd their touring groups. This coliseum is great! But, Overpriced! Over crowded! It's stinks! There's only one bathroom for thousands of people! People are rude and a lot of people wants you to buy something from them. 2 euro for a bottle of water!! Crazy place to be! If this is your scene go for it! We got on the hop on hop off which that person asked for 30 euro per person. The tour to get in the coliseum is 40 euro per person which allows you to get in skipping the line. This place is not well kept at all. It's pretty obvious, everyone is just after the tourists $$$$. What a shame to promote history. read more
You can't go wrong visiting this amazing piece of history! Please be sure to follow the rules so that everyone can continue to enjoy this place for many more years to come. It was so awesome to step back in time and imagine how the colosseum was back in the time of the great empire! The ticketing process was a bit confusing, but there were some staff members walking the line who were able to give us information. Be wary as there are fake "employees" trying to sell tickets! We made sure to go first thing in the morning so we didn't have to wait forever. We were there about 30m before opening and there was still a bit of a line, but it didn't take long to get in. When we finished there, we went across to street to Palestine hill and the ruins there. It made for a great day! read more
Basically one of the must-see things in Rome. Even if you're not into the Gladiator or history, this place is so massive and grand that it will blow your mind. I've been here twice now. It never ceases to amaze me. The admission ticket is paired with the Palatine Hill admission--€18 for the whole thing, I believe but prices do increase over time. I would advise either coming early to avoid the crowds or in the afternoon. You'll need maybe 2 hours to go through the entire thing and get all the photos you want. Sunset time make Colosseum glow orange. read more
2 years ago
7 years ago
Did a night tour while it was closed to the public ! The only way to do it!!!besides being packed in the daytime it's blazing hot!! Such history in that place. Amazing read more
7 years ago
This place was smaller then what i expected , but it was still amazing. The only way to visit this museum is to do the skip the line with a tour. read more
4 years ago
I had a great day with a guided tour! All my hopes and dreams it can get a little busy but what do you expect? read more
8 years ago
One of the most empowering places I've ever been! Rome is riddled with magnificent history every where you look and turn! The coliseum was something truly unbelievable to stand in! To look down and see where the gladiators fought and to feel like you could of been there and hear the crowd roar! It was truly amazing! read more
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