Rome was the beating heart of the Roman Empire over a millennium ago, and it remains one of the most important cities in modern-day Italy… so chances are, you’re going to visit on your trip to Rome.
This significant, deeply historical city is so rich in its heritage and monuments, that you could spend an entire week checking out landmarks and neighborhoods, and still have plenty left to see. But if there’s one attraction you can’t miss, it’s the Colosseum.
This world-renowned open-air amphitheater, which opened in 80 AD, was used to host entertaining (and rather gruesome) events, such as gladiator fights, executions, and battle re-enactments. It’s still the largest in the world, and holds so many secrets!
To fully understand its complex history and purpose in the Roman Empire, I highly recommend visiting with a tour guide, as they’ll be able to explain fascinating facts that you can’t really learn any other way.
To help you plan an unforgettable visit to the ancient monument (which needs to be on your Rome itinerary), I compiled all the best Colosseum tours below. Take a look, and pick the one that interests you the most!
Why trust my recommendations? I’m Italian, born and raised in nearby Bologna, so I’m very familiar with Roman history and the country’s capital, which I’ve visited many times!
Besides, I’ve been in the travel industry for over 10 years, so you could say I’m an expert at identifying extraordinary activities in Italy and the world. All of the tours I recommend are hand-picked, high-quality, and led by professionals, ensuring a truly memorable experience.
I generally use Viator, Get Your Guide, and Walks to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
Limited time? These are the top tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Private Tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum |
| EXPRESS TOUR | Colosseum Arena Floor & Roman Forum Express Tour |
| KID-FRIENDLY TOUR | Colosseum Forum Ancient Rome for Kids & Families |
| TOUR OF ROME | Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican & Colosseum |
OUR PICK: The BEST Colosseum Tour in Rome
This Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome | Semi Private Max. 6 People offers a comprehensive tour of the landmark, and a deep dive into its history.
You’ll get to step foot in the very arena where ancient battles took place, and discover the hidden entrance through which the gladiators accessed it.
Your savvy guide will detail everything that went on in this iconic location, explain the seating arrangements, and answer all your questions.
Then, you’ll visit the Roman Forum, the bustling political center of Ancient Rome. Explore the remains of its buildings, including temples and government houses, and feel as if you’ve traveled back in time.
Learn about the Forum’s role in the city’s life, and then make your way to Palatine Hill, which offers astounding views of the Circus Maximus. Explore the lavish ruins of Emperor Augustus’ majestic villa, and gain a new perspective on the history of Rome.
Why is this the best tour? It will completely immerse you in the city’s past, traveling through its most historic locations and understanding them in depth. You’ll access the Colosseum’s Arena, which isn’t included in most tours, and enjoy a very personalized experience.
Read what the reviews say:
“When they say “Skip the Line,” they mean it! Our tour guide, Pam, was excellent. She clearly explained all the elements of the Colosseum and provided cultural context that offered deeper understanding of Roman culture. Her storytelling made everything come to life! We were able to see the big picture of how the city of Rome evolved over the centuries. This was our first tour in the city and it really set us up for the rest of visit”
Amanda_M – Read more reviews
This tour includes: An expert guide, skip-the-line tickets, and access to the Colosseum’s Arena through the Gladiator’s Gate. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
OUR 2nd PICK: The Most Exclusive Tour of the Colosseum
The Colosseum & VIP Caesar’s Palace SUPER Sites Tour is a highly-rated excursion that grants you exclusive access that very few visitors get.
The tour starts with a visit to the Roman Forum, the heart of the ancient empire, where your expert guide will introduce you to centuries of history as you walk among the temples, tombs, and government buildings… or what’s left of them!
You’ll then climb Palatine Hill to explore the SUPER Sites, a rotating collection of villas, temples, and imperial residences that are very rarely open to the public. They include the House of Augustus and the Domus Tiberiana, which are reserved for those with special access (like you with this tour!) and are also never crowded.
Finally, step into the Colosseum with skip-the-line tickets, getting to tour the first and second tiers as you listen to tales of gladiators, wild beasts, and the other types of entertainment that the amphitheater hosted.
Why this tour? It grants you access, with an expert guide, to ancient Roman attractions that are rarely available for visits, bypassing the queues and enjoying a very exclusive experience.
Read what the reviews say:
“The tour was absolutely wonderful, the tour guide made a big difference, she was so knowledgeable! We did not wait very long, at all, as your tour gets a very big advantage over people who choose not to book tours, and those wait lines are hours LONG! It was a great experience and highly recommend the tour, whether you are a first time visitor or have been to Rome other times!”
Harold – Read more reviews
This tour includes: A guide, entrance fees, a 24h Colosseum and Forum Pass, and headsets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Great Options To Consider
▶️ Unearth the ancient grandeur of Rome on this Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. Led by an expert historian, tour the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum, discovering the well-preserved remains of the Roman Empire.
Delight in tales of gladiator battles and political intrigue amid stunning ruins. Enjoy the sweeping views from Palatine Hill, where it’s said that Romulus founded the city, and immerse yourself in the heart of Ancient Rome.
With fast-track tickets, you’ll save precious time by skipping all lines and heading straight to the attractions.
For an even deeper Colosseum experience, upgrade to access the exclusive Arena Floor. This is where gladiatorial games, staged hunts, and simulated sea battles took place!
This tour includes: An expert guide, skip-the-line tickets, headsets, and a guided visit of the Colosseum. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Step into the shoes of ancient fighters with this Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor.
Hear spine-tingling stories of gladiator battles, and gaze over the first level where roaring crowds once cheered for bloodshed.
Then, venture to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. The ancient ruins will be brought back to life with your guide’s stories about their role in the Roman Empire.
This Colosseum guided tour includes: A local guide, a walking tour, a headset, and entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ If you prefer, you can book this tour through Walks.
Colosseum Private Tours
▶️ Discover Rome’s iconic landmarks like a VIP with this Rome: Colosseum and Roman Forum Private Tour. Say goodbye to long queues, and hello to skip-the-line access and hotel pickup for the ultimate hassle-free experience.
Your expert guide will regale you with fascinating tales of gladiator games, wild beast fights, and ancient emperors. Then, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Roman Forum. Here, the ruins of temples, basilicas, and public squares offer glimpses into the bygone Roman life.
Customize your tour and get ready for a history-packed adventure with personalized attention. It’s a Colosseum and Forum tour like no other!
This Private Colosseum tour includes: A private walking tour, a guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and skip-the-line tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ A great alternative is this Ancient Rome and Colosseum Private Tour with Underground Chambers and Arena.
You’ll skip the line at the famous landmark, and dive into its history as you explore hidden corners and lesser-visited areas of the Colosseum.
You’ll get to explore the enigmatic underground chambers of the building, and step onto the Arena Floor where the mighty fights took place. Ascend to the Colosseum’s Upper Level for stunning views of the place.
Then, make your way to Palatine Hill, where emperors used to live, and unearth the secrets of the Roman Forum. It was the political, religious, and financial hub of the Roman Empire, and it oozes fascinating history.
This Rome underground tour includes: Skip-the-line tickets, a guide, and access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Rome Colosseum Tour with Pick Up
The Ancient Rome Guided Tour: Colosseum, Forum and Palatine is an ideal excursion for history buffs. It starts with convenient pick-up at your hotel and with a tour of the Colosseum, where you’ll get to admire its grandeur from up close.
Your guide will provide insightful commentary throughout the visit. You’ll learn about the various uses of the Colosseum, and walk around Rome’s most iconic attraction.
You’ll then head to the historic Roman Forum, which acted as the epicenter of ancient Rome. Then, ascend the legendary Palatine Hill for astounding views. Along the way, you’ll pass by other impressive landmarks such as the Arch of Constantine and Via Sacra.
This Rome Colosseum tour includes: Hotel pick-up, a guide, headsets, and skip-the-line tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Evening Tour of the Colosseum in Rome
Grab the chance to admire the monument after dusk with this Colosseum Evening Guided Tour with Arena Floor Access.
Accompanied by a guide, you’ll beat the crowds and take in the spectacular views from the Colosseum’s upper level. Admire ancient graffiti on the arena floor, and be in awe at the captivating stories you’ll hear about the place and its history.
The trip includes a hassle-free stroll along the Roman Forum, where you’ll get to check out its temples, sanctuary, and arches.
This Colosseum at night tour includes: Skip-the-line entry, access to the Arena Floor, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Limited Time? Express Tour of the Colosseum
If you’re pressed for time, this Colosseum Arena Floor & Roman Forum Express Tour is the perfect option, lasting only two hours.
With a small group of up to eight people, you’ll join a professional guide in exploring the iconic Colosseum, learning about its construction, history, and the notorious events it held.
You’ll walk across the main Arena, right where the ancient battles took place, as you hear the stories of beasts and gladiators. Then, visit the Roman Forum, the center of everyday life during the Roman Empire, and Palatine Hill, where, according to legend, Rome was founded.
This tour includes: A guide, entrance fees, and an express tour of the landmarks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Kid-Friendly Tour To the Colosseum
This Colosseum Forum Ancient Rome Small Group Tour for Kids & Families is the tour for travelers with children.
You’ll enjoy maximum interaction and learning with this tour that caters to both grown-ups and children. Step into the magnificent landmark and hear tales about the gladiators and ancient shows that occurred in the arena.
You’ll then explore the political heart of Ancient Rome at the Roman Forum. Games, quizzes, and treasure hunts will be organized to keep the children engaged in the tour.
This tour includes: A guide, skip-the-line tickets, and children’s activities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Comprehensive Rome Tours with Colosseum
▶️ Embark on a fantastic excursion with this Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Center. You’ll skip all lines to access the Colosseum, one of the Roman Empire’s most important landmarks. Once there, learn about the shows and battles that took place in its arena.
Continue immersing yourself in history with a visit to the Roman Forum and the Pantheon. Then, stroll past Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain for pictures.
After a break for lunch, be awestruck by the Vatican’s artistic treasures, which include a few of Michelangelo’s pieces in the Sistine Chapel.
This extensive tour covers the best there is to see in Rome, so it’s perfect for first-time visitors and travelers with limited time.
This tour includes: Skip-the-line tickets for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Vatican Museums, a guide, and a headset if needed. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ If you prefer, you can book this exact tour on Viator.
▶️ The Rome in a Day Group Tour with Entry to Vatican and Colosseum allows you to unravel the wonders of the city. With a group of other enthusiast travelers, you’ll spend 7 hours trotting around the Eternal City.
Enjoy VIP access to the major landmarks, and learn about the history and culture of Rome from your knowledgeable guide.
You’ll discover all there’s to know about the gladiator fights at the Colosseum’s Arena. Then, wander amid ruins at the Roman Forum, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountains.
The tour also includes a stop at Piazza Navona, and a trip to the Vatican. There you’ll get to marvel at Raphael’s masterpieces, Michelangelo’s work at the Sistine Chapel, and the impressive St. Peter’s Basilica.
This tour includes: Skip-the-line access to all attractions, a walking tour around the city’s center, free time for lunch (own expense), and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
