If you want a deeper, more personal experience at one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, booking a private Colosseum tour is the best way to go.
Unlike regular group tours, a Colosseum private tour gives you one-on-one attention from an expert guide who tailors the stories and facts to your interests.
It is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want to learn more and enjoy the site at their own pace.
With a private tour of the Colosseum, you will skip long lines using a special entrance and avoid the crowds.
You will also have plenty of time to ask questions and interact with your guide throughout the visit.
In this article, we will walk you through the different types of private tours of the Roman Colosseum, what’s included, how much they cost, and why it is a smart choice for your trip.
Types of Colosseum Private Tours
You can choose between two main types of private Colosseum tours, based on the level of access you prefer.
The regular tour includes access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. The other private tour offers exclusive entry to the Arena Floor and the Underground chambers, giving you a deeper, behind-the-scenes experience.
1. Regular Private Tour of Colosseum
This is the most popular private tour of the Colosseum in Rome.
You will visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill with a knowledgeable guide who brings the ruins to life with fascinating stories.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time Slots: Between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM
- Cost: From €528 for up to 3 people
- Itinerary:
- Colosseum: Guided visit (1.5 hours)
- Roman Forum: Guided visit (45 minutes)
- Palatine Hill: Guided visit (45 minutes)
Private Tour of Colosseum Arena & Underground
This private tour of Rome’s Colosseum gives you access to restricted areas like the underground tunnels and the Arena Floor.
You will explore underground tunnels where gladiators and wild animals waited before the battle of their lives.
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time Slots: 9:00 AM & 3:00 PM
- Cost: €1,105 per person
- Itinerary:
- Underground chambers: 40 minutes
- Arena Floor: 40 minutes
- Colosseum upper levels: 20 minutes
- Roman Forum: 1 hour
- Optional: Hotel drop-off
Highlights of a Private Tour
There are many advantages of opting for a private tour of the stadium built by the Flavian dynasty. We list them below:
- Skip the lines: Fast-track entry through the special entrance
- Personal attention: Your guide focuses only on you and your group
- In-depth experience: Learn more with detailed storytelling and expert knowledge
- Custom itinerary: Explore what you are most interested in at your pace
- Exclusive access: Visit restricted areas like the Underground and Arena Floor
- Ideal for families or small groups: Less crowd, more comfort
Regular Guided Tour or Private Tour?
A private Colosseum tour offers a more personal and detailed experience with one-on-one attention from your guide, making it ideal for small groups or families. While it costs more than a regular guided tour, you get extra time, deeper insights, fewer crowds, and perks like hotel pickup.
| Feature | Guided tours | Private tours |
| Group size | 20-30 people | Only your group |
| Duration | 1 to 2 hours | 2.5 to 3 hours |
| Guide’s attention | Shared with the entire group | One-to-one attention |
| Crowd management | More crowded with less personalization | Less crowded and more intimate |
| Cost | Starts from €38 (Book now) | Starts from €115 (Book now) |
| Experience | Basic historical information | In-depth exploration with unique insights |
| Availability | Available at all times | Only limited timeslots |
Know Before You Book a Private Tour
- All private guided tours of the Colosseum include access to Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
- Arrive at least 20 minutes before your tour starts.
- Bring a valid ID for security checks.
- Some tickets require names to be confirmed in advance.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will walk a lot.
- Large bags are not allowed. The Colosseum is stroller-friendly but baby carriers are easier.
- The site is wheelchair accessible except for upper levels and underground areas.
FAQs about Private Tours
Here are some questions tourists planning to book a private tour have:
Can you get a private tour of the Colosseum?
Yes! You can book a private tour of the Colosseum, where the guide will adjust the experience to suit your interests. Such tours usually last 2 to 3 hours.
Are private tours in Rome worth it?
Absolutely. If you want the most value and flexibility from your visit to the Colosseum, a private tour is the way to go.
How much do you tip a private guide in Rome?
A 10% tip is the standard for great service in Rome.
Are private tour guides expensive?
Prices vary, but you can split the cost among your group. Private tours range from €100 to €300 depending on what’s included.
How do private tours work?
You will meet your guide at the Colosseum’s entrance, discuss what you want to see, and enjoy a flexible, customized experience. You get to ask as many questions as you want, and the guide goes out of their way to wow you.
Can I visit the Arena and Underground on a private tour?
Yes. The private tour of the Colosseum in Rome, which has Arena and Underground access, is one of the most exclusive experiences.
Are there kid-friendly private tours?
Yes, some private tours of the Roman Colosseum are great for kids and include fun stories and games. The guide customizes the narrative to suit the kids, and makes history fun.
Can I book a private photoshoot at the Colosseum?
Yes, you can hire a professional photographer for a private shoot around the Colosseum and surrounding areas.
Why are private tours better?
Private tours are designed around you. No fixed routes, no rush—just a rich experience based on what you care about most.
