This is one of the many tourist attractions we visited on our trip to Italy that we really wished we'd purchased advanced tickets to. We tried the week before, but they were already booked for advanced purchase tickets. The only way to get in was to stand in a long line before sunrise to get a call back ticket, or you can sign up for one of the guided tours advertising to people on the street. We elected the line which, once the ticket counter opened, went fast. Our ticket included entrance to the Forum, which we could see at any time that day, and we had to be back for our time in about 6 hours. We headed for the Forum and enjoyed a downloadable audio tour we found online. We had lunch and did a few more things and headed back in the heat for our time slot. It was confusing buying the tickets, there are lots of different levels and some let you in with one ticket, others another ticket, and then certain areas like the subfloor was guided only. We didn't realize we didn't have access to everything, so we wandered around a bit, but it felt like a waste to not see everything. They also had several great scenic spots roped off as special access for tours only. For sure, it's an impressive ancient Roman structure that's quite well preserved and definitely worth a trip. I recommend planning in advance, getting the tickets that give you access to the stuff you want to see, and going early... the miserable Roman summer sun is enough to make anyone say -- forget it! And go look for a glass of bubbles somewhere cool. read more

Colosseum - Outside views - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

If you come to Rome and other than the Vatican, isn't the Colosseum the first place you think of visiting? The 2,000 year old building where people were killed for spectator pleasure for hundreds of years. I bought a combo ticket online before my trip that gave me a timed entry for here along with visiting the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill on the same day. The easiest way to get here is by taking the Metro which has a stop about 100 yards away from the Colosseum. When I arrived on a Saturday afternoon the place was teeming with visitors. I got the impression that's the way it is here practically every day. Everyone comes here. I found my visit interesting in learning how life was back then. The daily sacrifice of humans for entertainment is fascinating. Touring thru the innards of the stadium was interesting with my favorite part being that the stadium floor was actually wooden with dirt covered over it. The floor had large doors that could be opened from below which contained a series of hallways and rooms to house people and animals. Those entities could then be lifted up through the floor doors up to the stadium floor level. Just like how modern stages can make people and things appear from below. While I enjoyed the inside of the stadium the best part is its exterior. Seriously, if you don't want to spend money on tickets or just don't have the time, come walk around the exterior and take pictures. It's free and available at any time. read more

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A must not miss when in Rome! The Colosseum is spectacular. So glad we took the tour and got to see the underground. read more

Colosseum - Outside the Colosseum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

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There's nothing like stepping back in history with a visit to the Colosseum. It's one of the 8 Wonders of the Ancient World, and I get it. It's definitely worth getting a ticket and visiting inside the ruins. I went during shoulder season, and actually had a failed attempt on a Sunday. Got there at 9 in the morning and the line literally wrapped around it to purchase tickets. It would have been hours, so I went back on a Wednesday morning, arriving by 10 in the morning (I found it so unfun to get going and rush in the mornings). It was crowded but a manageable line - I had a ticket in hand in 2 hours for entry an hour later. You can buy tickets online but they sell out fast. You'll want to book weeks in advance (similar to what I did for the Vatican Museums). I'd recommend planning ahead for a more streamlined and relaxed experience. I am generally not a person to do the guided tour packages with third parties, but I will say that the Colosseum is a place I'd do it if I were to return. The queues to get guided tours inside were a confusing mess and long; the other ones skip the ticket line for timed entry and you have a guide to bring you around and share history. It was amazing to wander in awe, but I wish I'd spent about 10-20 more euros for the historical context. The Colosseum is definitely a must see during a trip to Rome for history buffs! read more

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So amazing to go and be standing in all of that history. This trip will forever be one of my favs! read more

Colosseum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

Such a fun and knowledgeable place to visit. I wasn't too keen but was not disappointed. Took a walking tour which was great as i wouldn't have known back story behind a lot of things. It's a lot of walking if you want explore everything here which I highly recommend. There are few security check so go light with small bags etc and ID is a must. Good walking shoes if you are an explorer. Use restrooms when you have the opportunity. Definitely a must see ! read more

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What can one say about such a historically iconic monument that hasn't already been said or that would add to its already breathtaking nature? All I can say is go, and book a tour if possible. A tour is truly the only way to experience its richness. Enjoy! read more

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You could see the roman traps ！ Its really beautiful colosseum！ I love colosseum and want to go there again！ read more

An obvious stop when in Rome. It's amazing how something made thousands of years ago is still standing and in overall good condition. Obviously parts of it have deteriorated. Lots of great architecture and historical artifacts located inside. We ended up getting a guided tour. There was no wait, we were able to just walk right in with our group. Be prepared to walk. There's also a couple of sections with large steps. Do not leave Rome without visiting. read more

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Signed up for a tour days before so we didn't have to stand in line. Highly recommend!! It's nice to learn about the history too. The architecture is so beautiful. It was pretty crowded when we went in the morning on a Thursday, but still manageable even with a large tour group. Very hot with lots of sun so id recommend glasses and hats! And sunscreen. The tour lasted about 1 hour inside, and it was really fascinating. Security is good here, and I felt safe. The views are beautiful from the bottom and from the top!! read more

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This is a world treasure. To see something so old, so we'll engineered with such a rich history up close and personal is a gift. Not free though! You can buy tickets there to enter and look around there are exhibits with explanations that are helpful. We ended up buying tickets online the day before with full access and english speaking tour guide. It cost us about 80 euros per person. If you plan ahead then you can get the same tickets for lot cheaper price. so definitely plan ahead! As we walked through the massive stone arches and stood on the grounds where gladiators once fought, I couldn't help but feel transported back in time to ancient Rome. The architectural beauty of the Colosseum is truly remarkable. Its grandeur and scale are a testament to the engineering genius of the Romans. Exploring the different levels and imagining the roar of the crowd gave me a sense of the vibrant energy that once filled this iconic amphitheater. The Colosseum is more than just an ancient amphitheater built in the 1st century--it's a symbol of Rome. Naturally, it's one of the most popular monuments in town. The place is undeniably magnificent from the outside. Standing 160 feet tall and made of brick, concrete, and limestone, the Colosseum is an awe-inspiring testament to Roman architecture. Needless to say, You definitely have to visit and cannot miss this place when you are in Rome. read more

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We pre-booked tickets for this, which is highly recommended. We were able to walk here from our hotel. When we turned onto the Via Serpentini at least half a kilometer away, we could see the Colosseum dead ahead. They have roped off lines set up for walk-up ticket holders so you can just approach the staff with your printed or phone voucher and they can direct you properly. There was also a bag scan to ensure you were not carrying any weapons or explosives. Once inside, there are several kiosks for audio guides, meeting points for tour groups, restrooms, etc. The basic tour routes you along a set path. There are a number of placards and exhibits along the way, as well as spots that are good for photos. You begin by stepping out to roughly where the emperor's box seats would have been. There is a large cross here. There is apparently a long-running debate about how to represent the Christian martyr aspect here versus just the non-denominational Roman history. At one point in the past, the Catholic church even planned to build a church inside the arena. The cross is the current compromise. You can proceed a bit to your right but I believe the left path leads to the stairs up to the 2nd level, where the remainder of the tour happens. From this point, you have a better vantage point to see down into the floor of the arena (and the levels beneath). You are also routed through a series of interesting exhibits about the construction and subsequent use of the structure. They even include archeological findings such as bones of snack meats the attendees ate. Some were quite interesting. You can then visit each end of the long axis of the stadium. Each provides good views and photo ops, depending on what time you visit and the lighting conditions. At one end there is a platform with the 'classic' view of the interior; this is quite crowded. At the opposite end is a similar view plus the gift shop and book store. You then descend to ground level again and can check out the short axis view opposite where you began. The exit is on this side. When we visited, there was a kiosk where you could refill a water bottle for free here. This is also the closest point from which you can then access the Forum (which is often sold as a combined ticket with the Colosseum). This is a short walk but this entrance to the Forum also seemed to have the biggest line; you may want to walk around to another side for a quicker entry. YMMV. It helps to do a bit of pre-visit research about the structure to better appreciate it. I thoroughly enjoyed this visit. If you are visiting Rome, you should definitely make this one of your stops! read more

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It goes without saying that Il Colosseo deserves a five-star rating. You should definitely join a tour group. If you don't, anticipate a 2-hour wait. You can find various tour groups online. The Colosseum and the city of Rome is rich in history. Animal fights? Public executions? Gladiator fights? Those times were insane! I learned so much during my three hour tour. Be prepared: Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world, and Il Colosseo is a popular tourist destination. 5 stars! Just do it, you'll love it. read more

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Outstanding Underground Guided Tour ... well worth the difficulties purchasing ticket in advance online (34€) from COOP Culture. These tours are limited to 25 people each with timed admission -- mine was for Noon. Everyone on the tour received a radio and headset, which we used to hear our guide. I thought she was excellent, as was the tour plan through the Colosseum underground. The tour lasted about 75 minutes and ended on the Colosseum stage. After the tour, we were free to see the upper levels. read more

Colosseum - Welcome Sign - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

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The stadium is a dump. Falling apart, dirty, no concessions for beer/hot dogs, etc. Poor seating as well. Doubt they could even stage a game here because the field is in such disrepair. read more

The most famous structure in Rome! Everyone needs to visit the Colosseum when they are in Rome. It's rich in history and we only wish the walls could talk. Some fun facts that we learned is that the didn't film the movie "Gladiator" here, it's over 1,900 years old but it's still relatively new compared to the pyramids, it's the worlds largest amphitheater, there are 80 entrances, Julius Caesar never set foot in this space, the original name of the structure wasn't the Colosseum and the last use of the space was during the fall of the Roman Empire due to the cost of hosting events there. We all know it for gladiator fights but they also have used it for political purposes. Romans could enter for free while foreigners had to pay a small fee to enter when it was still in use. These are just some interesting facts we learned about the New Wonder of the World. Must visit and another bucket list item checked off our list! read more

Colosseum - Colosseum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

It's the main reason I wanted to come to Rome and I am happy to have gone. The downside is having to purchase a ticket and it still be packed. They most definitely oversell tickets, in the enclosed museum areas it's shoulder to shoulder with other people. Once you're outside or over looking the arena it's a little better. read more

Colosseum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

You'll most likely be there with 10,000 other tourists ! So be prepared. This review is for those who don't want to spend money, don't want to be squeezed by large crowds, don't have to see every details inside, and just want a relaxed experience. I've visited Colosseum three times - once with a guided tour, once with purchased ticket, and this time just on my own. Whether you join a tour or buy an entry ticket , you will most likely be with thousands of other tourists! Even if you choose to come during "low" season, there will be crowds. I'd venture to say this place is likely among the top 5 most popular tourist spots in the world! Since I can't deal with large crowds, I did the "looking" online, where there's tons of photos, great explanations from history to conservation facts, and just came here for some in person photos and a relaxed stroll around the arena. Centrally located in Rome, it's very easy to get to. There are buses and metro. The metro exit puts you right in front close to a decent photo spot. There's often construction going on so you would need to be flexible. But you can probably walk around the entire structure in about half an hour. You can then walk around the Palatine Hills and stop by the Arch of Constantine. All together about half a day. read more

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The Colosseum never gets old. It is an oval amphitheatre in the centre of the city, just east of the Roman Forum. It is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, and is still the largest standing amphitheatre in the world today, despite its age. Construction began under the emperor Vespasian (r. 69-79 AD) it was completed in 80 AD under Titus his successor & heir. The Colosseum is built of travertine limestone, tuff (volcanic rock), & brick-faced concrete. It could hold an about 50,000 to 80,000 spectators at various points in its history, having an average audience of some 65,000; it was used for gladiatorial contests & other public spectacles including animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on Roman mythology, & briefly mock sea battles. In the medieval era It was reused as housing, workshops, quarters for a religious order, a fortress, a quarry, and a Christian shrine. Although substantially ruined by earthquakes and stone robbers taking spolia, the Colosseum is still an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome and was listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. It is one of Rome's most popular tourist attractions and also has links to the Roman Catholic Church, as each Good Friday the Pope leads a torchlit "Way of the Cross" procession that starts in the area around the Colosseum. The Colosseum is depicted on the Italian version of the five-cent euro coin. read more

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My notes: We didn't do the lower or upper levels. I wished it cost a bit less, but it was worthwhile. The free Rick Steves tour is a little difficult to follow at times, but it's decent. It gets hot there, so wear a hat and sunscreen to protect your face body. Your ticket gets you into Palatine Hill and the Forum also. read more

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My second time in Rome and I finally get to tour the Colosseum. The last time (Fall 2018) the tour was cancelled due to a thunderstorm. Yup, how lucky was I? Four years and I am still blown away by the history, engineering and sheer magnificence to the arena. I was there in mid-October and it was still very warm. I wore comfortable clothes, but should have worn shorts that day. We also booked the tickets in advance and this is a Must Do. It was very, very crowded and there were strict limits into how many people could enter on any given day. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and made the visit much more enjoyable. The Colosseum is one of those rare places that does not fail to impress when seen in person. I'll let my photos do the talking from here. read more

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Currently listed as one of the "New 7 Wonders of the world", it's worth popping over to see what it's all about. It's still the largest amphitheater in the world, with a wealth of other ancient Roman ruins around to see. The Colosseum has tickets for sale, as do the grounds of the ruins. Some are self guided, others are with a guide if you so decide. It's an interesting walk around, if you don't want to buy a ticket, but would like to feel like you've seen the sites - keep wandering, Rome has ruins, Arcs, and sites galore. A good number are free, and some show enough that not much imagination is required to know what's there. read more

Wow! What an experience! We were captivated by the architectural brilliance of the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, and is still the largest standing amphitheatre in the world! Please don't miss the chance to visit the Colosseum when you go to Rome! read more

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I love laying my hands upon history and the fact that my family and I were able to take a three week journey through Europe to get here was truly magical. read more

Of course a building that is this gigantic and thousands of years old has to be five stars! We went on a nighttimetime tour of the Colosseum, and it was so informative and impressive. I knew there had been gladiator fights there, but I didn't know about all of the animal fights, boat shows, and public executions. I also didn't know that the animals fought against humans and other animals; and the most common animal featured was the bear. There are also records of lions, cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos, hyenas, ostriches, and even giraffes battling. The Romans had a system of pulleys and elevators that were operated by slaves, and a system of waterways that allowed water to flood the colosseum floor so that boats of performers could come in. You are able to tour the upper seating levels, the area where the stage was (ground floor), and the tunnels and rooms below the floor, where slaves, and animals were housed. Most of the marble seating areas and statues were removed but there is a section of marble seating to show what seating might have looked like almost 2,000 years ago. There was seating to accommodate up to 80,000 spectators; separated by class level. The Colosseum is an amazing feat of architecture and it is a sight not to be missed when visiting Rome. read more

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We just arrived at Rome's cruise port. We took a shared 100 euro per person cash ride from the cruise port to our hotel. It cost us 200 euro cash for our shared ride. We safely arrived at our Radisson Blu GHR hotel in Rome. We previously booked the Viator Colosseum tour. We met up with our friends at the hotel prior to our check in. In the afternoon we took Uber from our Radisson Blu GHR hotel to the Viator Colosseum Tour meeting area. We went to where the other tour guides were located. We could not find any Viator members in this meeting area based on their colored shirts. We eventually learned from other tour members that the Viator office was located up the street. We went up the street to the office waiting for our tour to start. We started our tour, but our younger tour guide announced that this was an aggressive working tour. The tour was for the more aggressive expert touring so we gave up after about our first 15 minutes of walking Rome's historical streets, since we were not as fit as our aggressive Viator working tour guide. Our friends said they would complain to Viator about the misrepresentation of the tour on their website. Nevertheless we had the opportunity to tour the outside of the colosseum free of charge, but not the inside of the colosseum. The Colosseum (Colosseo) is an elliptical amphitheater in the center of the city of Rome, Italy, just east of the Roman Forum. It is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, and is still the largest standing amphitheater in the world, despite its age. Construction began under the Emperor Vespasian 69-79 AD. It was completed in AD 80 under his successor and heir, Titus. We were not happy with this Viator tour, but we were impressed by the Colosseum from the outside, therefore I rated this place as 5 stars. See my several pics. We eventually stopped at a nearby restaurant for some local draft beer and snacks before we returned to our hotel via a taxi from the Colosseum. We had to walk up to a major street to get the attention of an empty taxi. Tomorrow is our last full day in Rome, therefore we already booked Viator's tour of the Vatican, which I am looking forward to. More to come regarding our tour of the Vatican. read more

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Definitely see this on your visit to Rome if you've never before but you'll likely be inundated with crowds. Get a reservation if you can if you don't wish to spend a long time waiting in line to buy tickets and enter. read more

Colosseum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

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To learn the history and see the underground of this build is astounding. Everyone has heard about the gladiators, surely. Yet, they also had 14 or something elevators to bring up the animals? Yep. They may have filled it with water for sea-style battles? Yep. It was a free attraction to keep the populous entertained and quiet and voting for whoever was in charge? Also yep, and a sight to see once in your lifetime at least. read more

Been there several times, and each time I find something new that amazes me. Looking back in history this would've been a giant Colosseum of death and torture. Yet it is a fine example of Roman entertainment at its finest. The amphitheater is strategically placed right in the middle of the city. It provides a backdrop to some of the most delicious food, historical sites, and beautiful people. The world has ever seen. I have been awestruck each time I walked into the Colosseum due to its size and surprising acoustic presence. read more

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After watching Gladiator, this was a nice stop! Our tour guide gave a great history lesson as we walked around. There are plenty steep stairs here but there is an elevator. We didn't do the ground tour but honestly I think that was unnecessary, I enjoyed being higher up for the view. read more

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Talk about checking off a bucket list item, this was it. Being able to see one of the Wonders of the Ancient World! I highly recommend you pay to get a tour guide to explain all the intricacies of this marvelous place. We were lucky to have Adriano who led our tour and gave us so many interesting details about this place. We were able to see it from all the allowable areas and it was amazing. Be prepared to walk for 2-3 hours but it is worth it. read more

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The Colosseum was built in the first century. At full capacity it could hold 50,000 people, and there were in the over 70 or 80 entrances to the place. A variety of events would take place here; though perhaps the most well known are the gladiatorial competitions, there were also dramas, executions, and other public events that were hosted at the Colosseum. It was really cool to wander around here. I'm always a bit awed when thinking about places where others have walked, for nearly two millenia, and all the things that have happened there. And wondering about all the events that are lost to history. There's a little gallery type area where they sometimes have small exhibits. When I was there they had some tablets and writing materials from long ago. If you visit, it's probably best to do so with a guidebook, audioguide, or some of the historic background. Otherwise you're just wandering around in a really old building and paying for the pleasure of doing so. When I was here there were lots of people dressed up as gladiators trying to talk folks into taking photos with them and then giving them tips. Annoying but just ignore them and they'll leave you alone, or pay them for a photo if you want. read more

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Everyone knows that this structure was used in Ancient Rome for gladiator fights and executions. However, the famous Colosseum is one of those things that must be seen in person to truly appreciate it. The structure is absolutely huge and is actually still the largest standing amphitheatre in the world. Visiting this place was my favorite activity during my trip to Rome. I recommend buying tickets online in advance, so you skip the line at the box office. Much of the structure has been destroyed and the "floor" of the arena is mostly missing. However, this is a nearly 2000 year old building we're talking about. read more

Colosseum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

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Spectacular in every way. The experience was incredible and as it was on my bucket list. If you are in Italy it's a must to see the Colosseum. read more

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This review is only for the outside because I did not go in. I didn't want to plan a tour, but I found that even just walking by was amazing! We walked all around the colosseum and each area provided a new and beautiful view. A must see in Rome! read more

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What an experience! This was my first time in Rome so I had to come to the Colosseum. You could literally feel the energy in this place! The tour guide we had was great and shoutout to those drinking fountains--made sure we were hydrated the entire time! 10/10 experience. Are you not entertained?! read more

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I remember picking up a book featuring the Roman Colosseum, when I was in elementary school. I remember being enamored by the story of the Roman empire, its many achievements, and its landmarks that have persisted to this day. Fast forward a couple of decades, and I found myself visiting the Roman Colosseum for the first time in my life. This structure, even after 2000 years, has withstood the test of time and still makes for a stunning view. My girlfriend and I came here on our first night in Rome. Braving abnormally cold temperatures, we strolled the area adjacent to this monument, taking in the incredible sights. The next day, we were back here hoping to take a tour of the area. We realized that, in order to go inside the Colosseum without a tour group, we had to reserve tickets months in advance. Since we didn't do that, we proceeded to find a tour group that had room for us. We found one group, and we paid for 2 tickets. They gave us a rendezvous time, and we went to have lunch in the meantime. Once the time came, we met the group, and proceeded to enter. The tour guide gave us a nice in-depth history lesson on the Colosseum. It's amazing how this was all run two millennia ago, pitting gladiators against gladiators or wild animals. We spent some time in the first level, and proceeded to the second level, where the history lesson continued. The rain hit us a part of our time here, but I was prepared, so no issue there. The second level makes for some great views. And if you're a photo enthusiast like myself, you can get some great shots from there. Once the tour ended, we were free to wander around as we pleased. We walked around the entire circumference of the second level, then stopped by for a bit at the gift center before heading out. This place most definitely lives up to its name. It was an amazing experience, especially when sharing it with someone special, and on a special day. read more

Colosseum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

Purchase skip the line tickets and spend all the time you need inside. You won't be disappointed. read more

Colosseum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rome, RM

We had a great tour guide who was also comical which, made it easy. I highly recommend to do this. The main purpose for this, is to save all of you the misery of waiting in line for a couple of hours in the heat. This guide cuts through and gets you in in a flash. So worth it more than what you pay for-to be honest. It takes a couple of hours so, get your tickets ahead of time, find your meeting place and please, be on time. Be considerate for the rest of the group who are there for the same reasons. Go in, go out after a couple of hours. However, once your guide is done, you are all welcome to roam around and take your IG feeds, stories, etc. Get your app ready and book your guide. There are several ways to book these guides as there are many of them. Choose your liking. You're welcome! This is a must. I got the chills and was amazed of the history behind these walls. Feel and touch the stones, examine the ground and realize that you have become part of the history as our ancestors (especially if you are a Roman) have walked the same walks here. Magnificent! We've been schooled you guys! read more

January 23, 2024 party of 4 11:30am The Roman Colosseum is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a must-see sight if you're visiting Italy's capital, the Eternal City. We waited in line that looks long and hustlers will tell you is an 1-2 hour wait but it's not. We refused to buy our tickets before arriving, or from the constant hagglers. The line was quick, we got 4 tickets with arena access £22.00 each. We walked the arena level, went upstairs and walked that level including their shop. Bathrooms are located onsite for free or the exterior for a fee. We enjoyed our time and so glad we did a self guided tour and not a group like a heard of sheep and controlled. Highly recommend to all. Those steps are no joke but they do have elevators for those in need. Don't lose your tickets as they get you into the ancient ruins and if you lose your tickets customer service will not help you and you'll be forced to buy tickets again. read more

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