10 Best Colosseum Tours + Insider Tips to Choose Correctly

Discover Rome’s iconic landmark through the eyes of a seasoned traveller. This guide offers the best Colosseum tours, curated from personal experience and meticulous research

This comprehensive guide is meticulously designed to assist you in selecting the best Colosseum tours in Rome.

As a frequent visitor to Rome since childhood, I have experienced the Colosseum in various ways—both independently and as part of guided tours, and before and after the opening of its underground chambers to the public.

This extensive background has provided me with a nuanced understanding of what constitutes an enriching Colosseum tour.

In this post, you will find not only a carefully curated list of the best tours of the Colosseum in Rome but also invaluable tips on how to choose the tour that best suits your needs.

Each tour has been assessed for its unique merits as well as its potential limitations, offering a balanced perspective to suit diverse travel preferences.

I’ve also tried to present this information in a range of different ways, to help as many people as I can choose the best experience for them – it’s not every day that you get to visit a Wonder of the World.

By drawing upon a wealth of personal experience and thorough research, this guide aims to be your definitive resource for exploring this ancient architectural marvel in a meaningful way.

Make sure to read it for an in-depth understanding of your options.

3 Best Tours of the Colosseum in Rome

First choice

Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Duration: 3 hours

Selling points: Small group, Expert archaeologist guide, Skip-the-line access

Book this Tour

Second choice

VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Duration: 3.5 hours

Selling points: Exclusive underground access, Arena floor experience, Lifelike digital projections

Book this Tour

third choice

Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

Duration: 3.5 hours

Selling points: Exclusive Gladiator’s Gate access, Arena floor, Expert archaeologist guide

Book this Tour

Bonus! – Best Colosseum Tour for Families

Colosseum and Ancient Rome Family Tour for Kids

Duration: 2.5 hours

Selling points: Child-friendly guide, Interactive learning, Small group 

Book this Tour

10 Best Colosseum Tours in Rome

1. Skip the Line Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

★ RATING: 7,000+ 5 star reviews! | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

I highly recommend this Colosseum tour for those who want an in-depth look at Rome’s iconic landmarks.

Having taken plenty of Take Walks’ tours across various cities, I can vouch for their expertise and superb quality.

This particular tour covers the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, offering a comprehensive experience of Ancient Rome and has over 7,000+ happy customers. 

As well as its extremely reputable operator, what sets it apart is the small group size, capped at 16 people, and the expert guidance of an archaeologist.

You’ll get to explore the Colosseum without the hassle of waiting in line, thanks to skip-the-line access. Additionally, you’ll have the unique opportunity to view the site of Julius Caesar’s funeral pyre inside the Forum.

The tour also includes headsets for groups larger than six, ensuring you won’t miss a word from your knowledgeable guide.

Overall, I think this tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into Rome’s rich history and is particularly well-suited for travellers who appreciate a more personalised experience.

Reviews:

Absolutely excellent tour. The guide was very knowledgeable and clear, and the small group size (~15 people) made it easier to follow and interact with her. The tour went through the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum, with a brief break before ascending Palatine Hill. The pace and length of the tour were great. Overall, we’re really glad we booked this tour.” – Gabriel, Oct 20, 2023, New Zealand

Read more reviews here.

2. VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill by Walks of Italy

★ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | ✓ Book now

I think that this VIP tour by Walks of Italy is a fantastic option for those who want to delve into the hidden depths of Rome’s iconic Colosseum.

This tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, taking you to the underground tunnels where gladiators once waited for battle. You’ll also step onto the famed arena floor and explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who will captivate you with tales of ancient Rome, debunking myths and revealing the truth behind the stadium and the games.

The cherry on top is a brand-new exhibition that brings ancient Rome’s most iconic figures to life through lifelike digital projections.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, families, and anyone seeking an immersive exploration of Rome’s ancient past.

Reviews:

“Our guide, Dario, was amazing. He shared his knowledge about Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Forum with us. He also gave us helpful tips as tourists in Rome. He also has a great sense of humour. I would definitely recommend the VIP Colosseum Tour that includes the underground of the Colosseum.” – Rita, Aug 17, 2023

Read more reviews here.

3. Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

★ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3.25 hours | ✓ Book now

I would highly recommend this special access tour by Take Walks for a truly immersive experience of the Colosseum.

With an impressive 4.7/5 rating from over 5,500 reviews, this tour grants you exclusive access through the Gladiator’s Gate, leading you directly onto the arena floor. This is how gladiators would have entered the ring in times gone by. 

Here, you’ll be removed from the crowds, offering an unparalleled view of the Colosseum’s grandeur. Your expert archaeologist guide will decode the ruins and share captivating stories of ancient Rome.

The tour also includes visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where you’ll explore an exquisite collection of ruins.

This tour is perfect for those who want to walk in the footsteps of gladiators and appreciate the Colosseum from a unique perspective.

Reviews:

We did the Colosseum Tour with the special access to the arena floor through the Gladiator’s Door. It was well worth it especially the skip the line ticket for the colosseum! We learned so much. Our tour guide, Enza was very knowledgeable. Would recommend!” – Linda, Oct 29, 2023

Read more reviews here.

4. Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Centre

★ RATING: 4.7/5 based on 3,800+ reviews | ? TOUR LENGTH: 7.5 hours | ✓ Book now

If you’re pressed for time but still want to soak in the essence of Rome, this tour by Take Walks is a game-changer.

Unlike other Colosseum-focused tours, this one offers a sweeping experience of Rome’s iconic landmarks, all in just over seven hours.

You’ll not only explore the Colosseum but also the Vatican Museums, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more.

The tour even includes private, air-conditioned transport between the historic centre and the Vatican, ensuring you make the most of your day.

Led by an expert guide, you’ll skip the lines and dive deep into the history and culture of Rome.

This tour is a godsend for travellers who are short on time but big on ambitions for their Roman holiday.

Reviews:

“Exciting fast-paced tour of many of the famous sites of Rome! You will see so much! This is the perfect tour for those who are have limited time in Rome but wish to pack in as much as possible in one day! Skip the line tickets and solid time management on your guides part make this tour possible. The tour is for active persons who do not want a lazy day tour but rather an action-packed tour that gathers more than your 10,000 steps a day! You will be able to see even more than what’s listed and learn so much about the sights, sounds and life of Roma! Far exceeded our expectations! Worth every penny to have seen so much with so little planning on our part!” – Phyllis, Oct 07, 2023

Read more reviews here.

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5. VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground & Arena Floor

★ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 2 hrs 45 mins | ✓ Book now

Having personally taken this tour, I can’t recommend it enough (side note: I’ve done a night tour myself).

With a 4.6/5 rating from over 2,000 satisfied guests, this night tour offers an unparalleled, intimate experience of Rome’s Colosseum.

As the sun sets, you’ll gain VIP access to areas usually off-limits, including the underground and the arena floor.

The Colosseum comes alive in the evening light, and the atmosphere is simply magical.

What I loved most was the serenity and exclusivity the night-time setting offered, making every moment feel surreal and intimate.

The tour also includes visits to other historic Roman monuments, such as the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, adding depth and context to your adventure.

Reviews:

“Last year I was in Rome and did a Coliseum tour in the day . . . I didn’t want to go again after that experience but my family wanted to. I am so glad I did! The night tour was a completely different experience and 100% worth it! Going at night without the intense crowds and not in the heat of the day made it so much easier to immerse yourself into the experience and enjoy the information received. You could actually start to think of what it was like so long ago. Book this tour well in advance, you won’t be sorry!” – Lisa, Sep 24, 2023

Read more reviews here.

6. Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill

★ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✓ Book now

If you’re looking to explore Rome’s ancient history in a single outing, this tour is a classic choice and extremely popular, with over 12,000 reviews.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on providing a comprehensive experience led by an expert guide.

You’ll skip the ticket lines and be led through the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, learning about their historical significance and taking in the best spots for pictures.

I recommend this tour for those who want a traditional yet thorough exploration of Rome’s ancient landmarks.

This tour is perfect for history buffs and those who prefer a more structured, guided experience.

Reviews:

“Georgia did a fantastic job guiding us through the Colosseum and Roman Forum, keeping the group entertained with her in-depth knowledge of the ruins. Highly recommended!” – Lesley, United States, October 29, 2023

Read more reviews here.

7. Colosseum and Ancient Rome Family Tour for Kids

★ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✓ Book now

This tour is an absolute gem for families eager to make history come alive for their children.

With a child-friendly guide, you’ll explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and even venture up Palatine Hill.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on interactive learning.

Children engage in treasure hunts and other hands-on activities, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

I highly recommend this tour for families with children. It offers a balanced mix of fun and learning, and the guide keeps both kids and adults entertained, making it a memorable experience for everyone.

This tour is extremely popular, boasting a high rating based on over 220 reviews. Make sure to book early to secure your spot.

Reviews:

“Donato was an incredibly knowledgeable and interesting guide. He kept the kids (and adults!) entertained and was very understanding even when the kids pushed the limits. The Colosseum was incredible to see, as was the Forum. And even though we were tired and hot, I’m very glad we pushed ourselves to go up Palatine Hill also, the view was worth it. I highly recommend this tour and Donato.” – Amy, United States, October 12, 2023

Read more reviews here.

8. Ancient Rome: Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum Private Tour

★ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

This private tour is a treasure trove for history buffs and families alike.

With an expert guide in Ancient Roman history, you’ll enjoy skip-the-line access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

What makes this tour exceptional is the personalised experience it offers.

Your guide will lead you through the heart of ancient Rome, covering its temples, meeting places, and triumphal arches.

I highly recommend this tour for its educational richness and the convenience of having a private guide. It’s perfect for those who want a more intimate and tailored experience exploring Rome’s ancient sites.

Reviews:

“We had the best time on our private tour of the Colosseum! Our guide was exceptional! He taught us so much and was wonderful with our children. He went above and beyond to ensure we had our transportation for the day and stayed with us until they arrived. It was a five-star experience!” – Whitney, July 11, 2023

Read more reviews here.

9. Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Semi-Private Tour

★ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✓ Book now

With a flawless 5/5 star rating from an impressive 3,400+ reviews, this award-winning tour is a traveller’s dream.

Although I haven’t personally experienced this tour, its reputation speaks volumes and that is why I’ve included it on this roundup of best Rome Colosseum tours.

Limited to just six people, this semi-private tour offers an intimate exploration of the Colosseum’s underground chambers (which are usually off-limits), the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

You’ll walk on original floors nearly 2,000 years old and hear captivating stories about gruesome gladiator battles.

I highly recommend this tour for history enthusiasts who crave an immersive and intimate experience of ancient Rome.

Reviews:

“Fun and informative. My wife and I are extremely appreciated the tour and the tour guide’s experience, knowledge, and humour. She had a lot of information and made it enjoyable for the long day of walking. It was one of our favourite tours of our two-week vacation. We really liked when she shared information on local Roman culture. This was very much worth the time and price. I would strongly suggest this tour to anyone.” – Shane_W, Jul 2023

Read more reviews here.

10.  Rome Colosseum by Night with Underground & Arena Floor Tour

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ? TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✓ Book now

For those seeking an immersive experience of the Colosseum, this night tour is a top choice.

Limited to just 10 people, the tour offers an intimate setting perfect for delving deep into the Colosseum’s history.

Imagine walking through the underground tunnels where lions and tigers were once kept, standing where gladiators awaited their fate, and hearing thrilling combat stories under the moonlight.

The storytelling is a real highlight, making the history come alive. Plus, the evening timing means you’ll avoid the heat and crowds.

I highly recommend this tour for those who want a unique, intimate, and engaging experience. It will also suit those who just want to see the Colosseum Underground, as unlike many other night-time Colosseum tours, it just includes the Colosseum itself, without a visit to the Forum and/or other sites. 

Reviews:

“Oh my goodness! Seeing the Colosseum at night was everything and more. The lighting at the underground was stunning. The storytelling about the history of the place was engaging. They told us about the architecture, gladiators, the fights and the new improvement done to the catacombs. The pulley system recreated to show how the animals were moved into the area during fights. You really see everything with a different light. And the weather was much cooler at night. BONUS! Absolutely recommend this night tour.” – Leila, September 13, 2023

Read more reviews here.

How to choose the ‘best’ Rome Colosseum tour for you (and what to keep in mind)

Visiting the Colosseum is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many, and choosing the right tour can make all the difference.

Drawing on my own experience of visiting the Colosseum at various times of the day, here are some comprehensive tips to help you make an informed decision.

Types of Colosseum tours

Firstly, it’s important to know that there are different types of Colosseum tours to suit various interests and schedules:

• Daytime General Tours: Ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill and who want to see it all under the light of day. Drawbacks here include a more crowded experience, as it’s the most popular time to visit. 
• Colosseum Underground Tours: These offer a more in-depth look at the Colosseum, including its underground chambers. There will be less crowds, but this will usually command a higher price tag for the more exclusive experience. You can only visit the underground with a licensed guide. 
• Night Tours of the Colosseum: Experience the Colosseum in a different light, literally. These tours are less crowded and offer a unique atmosphere. I’ve done a night tour myself, and highly recommend this option for those who are visiting the Colosseum for the second time around, as well as those looking for a more unique experience, away from the crowds. 

Booking in advance

Whether you’re interested in a general daytime tour, an underground exploration, or a magical night tour, booking in advance is crucial. The best reviewed tours often sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons, so you’ll want to book several weeks in advance. 

Tour availability and timing

Always check the current tour schedules and available days to ensure they align with your visit to Rome. Keep an eye on your emails for any updates from the tour company, as schedules can change, particularly during peak seasons. Your tour may not actually end up departing at the time you originally booked it for. 

Group combining

Be prepared for the possibility of smaller groups from different tours being combined, especially in the underground and night tours. This is often beyond the control of the tour companies, so it’s good to be flexible.

The Colosseum hires its own archaeologists and it is they who will bring you through any of the limited access parts, like the underground.

Manage expectations

When reading reviews, you’ll find both praise and criticism for the vast majority of tours. It’s essential to manage your expectations and understand what each tour offers. You’ll be far less likely to be disappointed by your tour if you read the description and reviews thoroughly before you book your tour. 

Additional monument visits

Some tours include visits to other historical sites in Rome. Consider whether you’d like to explore these additional sites to get a more rounded historical experience. It can be a good idea to combine several sites in one if you have the stamina for a tour lasting several hours. 

Best Roman Colosseum Tours: FAQ

Is it worth getting a guided tour of the Colosseum?

Absolutely – I would say that a guide tour of the Colosseum is extremely worthwhile.

A guided tour enhances your Colosseum experience by providing historical context, interesting anecdotes, and access to areas that are often off-limits to general ticket holders, such as the underground chambers or the arena floor.

Can you do the Colosseum without a tour guide?

Yes, you can visit the Colosseum without a tour guide. However, you’ll miss out on expert insights and may not have access to special areas like the underground or the arena floor. If you’re a history buff or first-time visitor, I’d highly recommended that you take a guided tour.

How much should I pay for a Colosseum tour?

Prices can vary widely depending on the type of tour and what’s included. Basic tours start around €30-€40 per person, while more comprehensive options like underground or night tours can go up to €100 or more. Always check what’s included in the price, such as skip-the-line access or additional monument visits.

What is the best way to see the Colosseum?

The best way to see the Colosseum depends on your interests. Daytime general tours are great for first-timers, underground tours offer a deeper dive into the Colosseum’s history, and night tours provide a unique, less crowded experience.

If you’re a complete history nut like I am, why not visit several times and try out each way of visiting – I have, and have taken away something different each time!

What should I wear for a Colosseum tour?

Comfort is key. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot, and bring a hat and sunscreen for daytime tours. For night tours, I’d suggest a light to warm jacket as it can get chilly.

Is photography allowed during the Colosseum tour?

Yes, photography is generally allowed, but tripods and professional camera equipment might be restricted. Always check with your tour guide to be sure.

How early should I arrive for my Colosseum tour?

I’d recommend that you arrive around 15-30 minutes before your scheduled tour time. This allows for any last-minute changes and ensures you have time to meet up with your tour group. Sometimes, locating the tour group takes a few minutes once you get to the meet-up point. 

Are Colosseum tours accessible for people with disabilities?

Based on the tours I came across when writing this post, it appears that most are not wheelchair-friendly, particularly those that include underground or arena floor access. If accessibility is a concern, it’s crucial to check with the tour provider in advance to determine what accommodations, if any, can be made.

Conclusion: Best guided tour of the Colosseum

In this comprehensive guide, you’ve journeyed through a curated selection of the top 10 Colosseum tours, each dissected for its merits and potential drawbacks.

My top choice, the Skip the Line: Premium Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, stands as a testament to the kind of enriching experience you can expect when you choose wisely.

But the exploration doesn’t have to stop here.

If the allure of the Colosseum’s enigmatic underground intrigues you, you’ll find my review of the Colosseum Underground tour at night with Take Walks to be an essential read.

For those who are captivated by the idea of experiencing the Colosseum under the moonlight, my roundup post of the best Colosseum at night tours offers further insights.

Beyond the Colosseum, Rome has so much more to offer.

To make the most of your Roman holiday, consider delving into my itinerary for four days in the Eternal City or read up on how long you should ideally spend in Rome.

Each of these related posts is designed to complement your Colosseum adventure, offering a well-rounded perspective on what Rome has to offer.

Thank you for allowing this guide to be your compass in navigating the best tours of the Colosseum in Rome. Here’s to an unforgettable Roman adventure.