The Colosseum is one of the most famous landmarks in the world—and that means it gets very crowded. If you don’t plan ahead, you could end up spending hours standing in long lines under the hot Roman sun.
But don’t worry—there are smart ways to skip the crowd and enjoy your visit without the stress.
In this guide, you’ll find the best tips and tricks to avoid the rush: from buying skip-the-line tickets and using quieter entrances, to visiting at the right time of day and choosing guided tours with special access.
Did you know? The Colosseum attracts nearly 6 million visitors each year, making it one of the most visited attractions in the world. With around 17,000 people arriving daily but only 3,000 allowed inside at once, entry often involves long waiting times.
1. Purchase skip-the-line tickets online
Long queues at the Colosseum are a common issue, especially during peak tourist season (May to August), where waiting time can stretch from one to two hours just to get inside.
To avoid long lines at the Colosseum, purchase skip-the-line tickets online.
With timed entry to the Colosseum, you skip the long lines at the ticket counters and walk right in. Why wait in the hot sun when you can head straight to the spot where gladiators once stood?
Booking your tickets in advance also ensures you get your preferred time slot.
Buy This Ticket2. Enter through the Palatine Hill or Forum
Did you know your Colosseum ticket also includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill? Most visitors don’t take full advantage of this and head straight to the Colosseum, and get stuck in long lines.
A smarter way to explore is to start at Palatine Hill. It’s usually much quieter, especially in the morning, giving you a more relaxed experience. Plus, the walk up is gentle and shaded, making it a comfortable way to begin your visit.
From the top, you’ll get stunning views of the Roman Forum before making your way down through its ancient ruins. This route helps you understand the area well before reaching the Colosseum.
By the time you arrive, you’ll enter through a less crowded exit gate instead of waiting in line at the busy main entrance. This simple trick can save you time and make your visit much more enjoyable!
3. Book a guided tour and use a separate entrance
Booking a guided tour is one of the best ways to skip the long lines at the Colosseum!
With a tour ticket, you’ll enter through the Stern Entrance—a much quieter gate—so you can get inside faster and avoid the crowds.
Some tours even give you special access to areas like the Arena Floor or the Underground, which regular tickets don’t include.
Buy This TicketRelated Read: How long does it take to visit the Colosseum?
4. Visit early morning or late evenings
The best time to be at the Colosseum to avoid the crowd is early in the morning, right when it opens at 8:30 AM, or later in the evening before closing.
During peak season, spring breaks, and school holidays, the Colosseum stays open until 7:15 PM, with the last entry an hour before closing.
Arriving later in the day helps avoid the busiest hours and makes for a more relaxed visit.
Sunset and night tours offer an even quieter experience. With the Colosseum glowing in the evening light, the atmosphere feels more magical, and the crowds are much smaller.
5. Visit during the weekdays
The Colosseum is much less crowded from Monday to Thursday, making these the best days to visit.
Weekdays generally have fewer visitors than weekends, which means shorter lines and a more relaxed experience.
However, during peak season, even weekdays can be busy, so it’s best to plan ahead to avoid the rush.
6. Get City Passes
City passes are a great way to save money and skip long lines at popular attractions.
They offer discounted entry to top sites and include fast-track access, making sightseeing easier and less stressful.
The Roma Pass lets you use a priority access line at the Colosseum, which is much faster than the regular queue.
The Rome City Tourist Card gives fast-track entry to major attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Buy This Pass7. Visit during shoulder months
The best times to explore the Colosseum is during the shoulder months—April, May, September, October, and November.
These months fall between the busy peak season and the quieter off-season, offering a perfect mix of good weather and smaller crowds.
Visiting during this time makes for a more relaxed experience, with fewer tourists and shorter lines.
The cooler temperatures also make walking around the Colosseum and nearby sites much more comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions tourists ask before visiting the Roman Colosseum.
How do I skip the line at the Colosseum?
To avoid crowds at the Colosseum, consider visiting on weekdays, during the shoulder months, early in the morning, or just before closing.
When is the best time to visit the Colosseum to avoid crowds?
To dodge the biggest crowds, visit early in the morning (around 8:30 am) or later in the afternoon (after 4 pm). Weekdays are quieter than weekends, and the shoulder months (March to May or September to November) are better than peak summer.
What is the busiest time at the Colosseum?
The Colosseum is most crowded between 10 am and 12 noon. This is when most tourists arrive, especially during holidays and weekends. If you’re aiming for a peaceful visit, it’s best to avoid this time slot.
Are there any specific days when the Colosseum is less crowded?
Yes, Monday to Thursday generally sees fewer visitors than the weekend. Planning your visit on these weekdays increases your chances of a more relaxed experience.
Are guided tours a good way to avoid the crowd?
Absolutely. Most guided tours come with skip-the-line access, so you can bypass the ticket queue. Plus, having a guide means you won’t waste time finding your way around, and you will get more out of your visit.
Is it better to visit the Colosseum during the day or at night to avoid crowds?
Night visits are less crowded and offer a completely different vibe. The Colosseum looks magical under the lights, and with fewer people around, it feels more intimate. If you want a peaceful experience, consider a night tour.
How early should I arrive for my Colosseum visit?
If you have booked a timed-entry ticket, arrive at least 15 minutes before your slot. This gives you enough time to go through security and be ready to enter on time.
Is it worth visiting the Colosseum even if it’s crowded?
Yes, absolutely. Even with the crowds, the Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Standing in the same place where gladiators once fought is an unforgettable experience, and it’s definitely worth your time.
Can I visit the Colosseum without booking in advance?
You can, but it’s not the best idea. Without advance booking, you may face long lines and risk not getting a ticket at all, especially during busy months. Booking online is the smarter choice.
