What to have the best experience at the Roman Colosseum?
Opt for the Guided Underground Tour, and uncover the hidden parts of this iconic landmark.
This special tour gives you rare access to the underground chambers where gladiators and animals waited before battles.
All Underground tours also include access to Colosseum’s Arena.
Highlights of Colosseum Underground Tour
- Guided tour of the Colosseum, Underground Chambers, Arena Floor, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
- Enjoy fast-track entry through a separate entrance known as the ‘Stern Entrance,’ which saves you time by bypassing the regular line lines.
- The local expert guide shares captivating stories and insights about Colosseum.
- The guided tour is available in English and Spanish.
- A headset will be available to ensure you hear the guide clearly during the tour.
- The group size is limited to 24 participants, which makes the experience more personal and engaging.
- Multiple time slots are available: 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm (you must arrive 30 minutes before the tour starts)
- The Underground Tour lasts three hours, letting you explore each site at a relaxed pace.
Ticket prices
Adult (18+ years): €160
Child (2 to 17 years): €135
Infant (0 to 1 years): €35
Meeting point
The Underground tour of Colosseum starts from Via del Colosseo No. 31, in front of Caffe Roma, just above the second floor of the Colosseum Metro station (blue line). Get Directions
Is the Underground Tour worth it?
The Colosseum Underground Guided Tour is definitely worth it for several reasons. First, it offers exclusive access to the underground area of the Colosseum, where gladiators and wild animals were kept before battles—an area which is off-limits to regular visitors.
Along with expert guidance, you’ll learn fascinating stories and historical insights about the Colosseum and ancient Roman games. The tour also covers the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Underground Tour or Regular Tour – which is better?
Colosseum’s Underground Guided Tour offers exclusive access to areas like the hypogeum and arena floor, with a deeper, less crowded experience led by an expert guide. It costs more and takes longer but offers a richer look into the Colosseum’s history. The Regular Colosseum Tour is quicker, more budget-friendly, and covers only the main levels—ideal for first-time or casual visitors.
| Feature | Underground Tour | Regular Tour |
|---|---|---|
| Access Areas | Includes underground chambers (hypogeum), arena floor, plus general areas | Only includes first and second levels (no access to underground or arena floor) |
| Tour Guide | Always guided by an expert | Can be guided or self-guided |
| Experience Type | In-depth and exclusive | General overview |
| Crowd Level | Less crowded due to limited slots | More crowded, especially during peak times |
| Duration | 2.5 to 3.5 hours | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Ticket Price | Higher (€80–€150) | Lower (€20–€60) |
| Booking | Must be booked well in advance | Easier to find last-minute availability |
| Ideal For | History lovers, those wanting exclusive access | First-time visitors, budget travelers |
Underground Day Tour or Night Tour?
While most visitors opt for the tour of Colosseum’s underground chambers during the daytime, there is also a nighttime underground tour.
The day tour is the better choice for most visitors because it lasts longer (about 3 hours), includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, and provides a more detailed historical experience.
| Feature | Day Tour | Night Tour |
|---|---|---|
| Tour Time | Morning or Afternoon | Evening |
| Underground & Arena? | Yes | Yes |
| Forum & Palatine Hill? | Yes | No |
| Tour Duration | 3 hours | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Atmosphere | Exclusive and informative | Magical and crowd-free |
| Price (Approx.) | From €161 | From $112 |
Alternatives to Underground Tour
If you’re looking for alternatives to the regular Colosseum Underground tour, two great options are available.
The Crypts and Catacombs Tour takes you into Rome’s eerie underworld, including the Capuchin Crypt, Roman Catacombs, and the Basilica of San Martino ai Monti. It lasts around 2.5 to 3.5 hours and includes transport, entry tickets, and a guide.
Another option is the Full-Day Rome Tour, where you explore the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and famous city landmarks like Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona in one day. It includes transport, guided tours, and entry tickets, making it perfect if you want to see all the major sights of Rome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Colosseum tickets include Underground access?
No, Colosseum Underground Tour tickets are not part of the regular entry. The Underground and Arena Floor are special areas you can only visit with a licensed guided tour. If you want to explore these hidden sections, buy a specific underground tour ticket in advance.
Can I upgrade my regular Colosseum ticket to the Underground tour?
Unfortunately, you can’t upgrade a regular Colosseum ticket to an Underground Tour on the day of your visit. If you want underground access, book the right ticket before you arrive.
What is included in the Colosseum Underground Tour ticket?
Colosseum Underground Tour tickets include exclusive access to the underground chambers where gladiators and animals were kept. You will also visit the Arena Floor, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
How long is the Colosseum Underground Tour?
The underground tour usually lasts about three hours. This includes a guided visit to the Colosseum itself, plus time at the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, giving you a complete experience of ancient Rome.
Can I visit the Colosseum Underground without a guide?
No, you can’t. The underground part of the Colosseum is only open to small guided groups. You must book a guided tour to enter this area, and your guide will share the stories, history, and secrets of the space during your visit.
Can I buy Colosseum Underground Tour tickets on-site?
We recommend you book your Colosseum Underground Tour tickets online and in advance, as soon as you finalize your plans. These tours have limited spots and often sell out, especially during busy seasons.
When should I arrive for my Underground Tour?
You must arrive 30 minutes before your tour starts. These guided tours run on a tight schedule and start on time to respect all participants. Arriving early gives you time to check in and join your group stress-free.
Is the Colosseum Underground Tour suitable for children?
Kids can join the underground tour, but it’s best for children over six years of age. The tour involves walking, stairs, and historical storytelling, so younger children may find it tiring or hard to follow.
Is the Colosseum underground claustrophobic?
Some parts of the underground feel tight and enclosed, so it may not be suitable for people with claustrophobia. If you are uncomfortable in small or dark spaces, it’s a good idea to choose a different Colosseum tour.
