Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Guided Tour

4.7/5      ( 100 reviews )

Explore Colosseum’s Underground, Arena, and Ancient Rome with Expert Guide

  • Duration:
    3h

  • Location:
    Via della Polveriera, 8

  • Available language:
    Inglese

  • Accessibility:
    Not available

  • Instant ticket delivery:
    No

  • Maximum number of people:
    7

  • Ticket on smartphone:
    Available

Guided tour of the Colosseum, Arena and Underground and access to Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Left: view of the Roman Forum with the towering column of the Temple of Castor and Pollux on the left and the Arch of Septimius Severus on the right, with the grand Monument to Victor Emmanuel II (Vittoriano) visible in the background Center: the columns of the Temple of Peace. Right: the arena floor of the Colosseum, where gladiators once fought.

Service offered in cooperation with

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Unveil the Wonders of Ancient Rome with Exclusive Access

Embark on a captivating journey through time with a visit to some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. This comprehensive tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s ancient marvels, allowing visitors to delve deep into the rich history and architectural grandeur that define Rome. The itinerary includes a guided tour of the Colosseum, where you will traverse the arena floor and gain insight into the lives of gladiators. The experience continues with a visit to the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, where political, social, and economic activities once thrived. Conclude your exploration with a stroll through Palatine Hill, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the opulent residences of Rome’s elite.

What’s included

  • Priority access to the Colosseum
  • Guided tour of the Roman Forum
  • Visit to Palatine Hill
  • Expert local guide
  • Headsets for clear audio

This tour includes priority access to the Colosseum, allowing guests to bypass the long lines and enter this iconic structure with ease. Once inside, a knowledgeable local guide will lead you through the Colosseum’s storied past, providing fascinating insights into its construction, purpose, and the legendary events that took place within its walls. The tour continues with a guided exploration of the Roman Forum, the epicenter of ancient Roman life. Here, you will walk among the ruins of temples, basilicas, and public spaces that once formed the nucleus of Roman civilization. The final leg of the journey takes you to Palatine Hill, one of the most ancient parts of the city. As you ascend the hill, your guide will share stories of Rome’s legendary founding and the opulent palaces that once stood here. Throughout the tour, headsets are provided to ensure you can clearly hear your guide’s commentary, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of these historic sites.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone eager to delve into the depths of Rome’s ancient past. Unlike other tours that may offer only a glimpse of these historic sites, this experience provides comprehensive access and expert guidance, ensuring a thorough understanding of each location’s significance. The inclusion of priority access to the Colosseum is a significant advantage, allowing participants to make the most of their time without the hassle of waiting in long lines. Additionally, the tour’s structure is designed to offer a balanced mix of guided exploration and personal discovery, catering to both those who prefer detailed narratives and those who enjoy wandering at their own pace. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Rome or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the city’s ancient roots in a meaningful and memorable way.

Discover the Colosseum: A Journey Through Time

The main attraction of this ticket is the Colosseum, located in the heart of Rome. This iconic amphitheater stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and cultural grandeur of ancient Rome.

The Architectural Marvel of the Colosseum

The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, is a marvel of ancient engineering and design. Constructed in 70-80 AD, it was the largest amphitheater ever built at the time and could accommodate up to 80,000 spectators. Its elliptical structure, composed of travertine limestone, tuff, and brick-faced concrete, exemplifies the advanced construction techniques of the Romans. Visitors can admire the intricate network of arches and vaults that support the massive structure, a testament to the ingenuity of Roman architects. The Colosseum’s design not only facilitated large-scale events but also ensured efficient crowd management, with numerous entrances and exits allowing for swift movement of spectators.

The Gladiatorial Games and Public Spectacles

The Colosseum was primarily used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, serving as a venue for entertainment and social gatherings. These events were a significant aspect of Roman culture, reflecting the values and priorities of the society. Gladiators, often slaves or prisoners of war, fought in the arena, showcasing their combat skills and bravery. The games were a blend of sport, theater, and ritual, providing a platform for emperors to demonstrate their power and generosity. In addition to gladiatorial contests, the Colosseum hosted wild animal hunts, mock naval battles, and dramatic reenactments of famous battles, offering a diverse array of entertainment for the Roman populace.

The Legacy of the Colosseum

The Colosseum has endured as a symbol of Rome’s enduring legacy, attracting millions of visitors each year. Despite suffering damage from earthquakes, fires, and stone robbers over the centuries, it remains a powerful reminder of the city’s imperial past. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural and historical significance. Efforts to preserve and restore the Colosseum continue, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its grandeur and historical importance. As visitors explore the Colosseum, they are transported back in time, gaining a deeper understanding of the social, political, and cultural dynamics that shaped ancient Rome.

Instructions

  • Meet at the designated entrance to the Colosseum.
  • Present your ticket for priority access.
  • Follow the guide for the tour itinerary.
  • Use the provided headsets for clear audio guidance.

Begin your journey by meeting at the designated entrance to the Colosseum, where you will present your ticket for priority access. This ensures a seamless entry, allowing you to bypass the usual queues. Once inside, follow your guide as they lead you through the tour itinerary, providing expert commentary and insights at each stop. To enhance your experience, use the provided headsets, which ensure you can clearly hear the guide’s explanations, even amidst the bustling crowds. This thoughtful arrangement allows for an immersive and informative exploration of Rome’s ancient wonders.

Advices

It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves considerable walking and uneven surfaces. Additionally, dressing in layers is recommended, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Be prepared for a long tour, and consider bringing a bottle of water to stay hydrated.{{

Reschedule and cancellation policy

It is possible to cancel or reschedule the ticket. Please check the specific terms and conditions for further details.{{

Reviews

100 verified customer reviews
D

Dan_L

July 2025

Not rated

The underground was spectacular and avoiding all the lines is super cool. Francesca was really great. Very knowledgeable and super pleasant.

A

Angela_M

June 2025

Not rated

Wow! This was an incredible experience! Laura was very knowledgeable and taught us a lot… always finding a shady spot to gather. Going to the arena floor and underground level was breathtaking. If you can get tickets, don’t miss this tour!

C

Christine_h

August 2024

Not rated

Really unique trip to the Colosseum. Special access to the underground, skipped lines, etc. Our guide Daniel V. spoke very good English and was able to tell us all about what we were seeing, etc. Highly recommend and if you can get Daniel V. even better!

P

Pamela_L

June 2024

Not rated

Excellent tour, just hard to understand the guide who I missed a lot, was outstanding but the English was not clear and the audio not great.

F

Frank_c

July 2022

Not rated

Phillipa did a good job pacing us while providing us with ample breaks. He was battling the 39-degree temps all day.

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