Official Website of the Colosseum
Guide to booking tickets and planning your visit
What is the official website of the Colosseum?
The Colosseum is owned and managed by the Italian government through the Parco archeologico del Colosseo. The official website Colosseo.it is available in both English and Italian.
This guide will help you understand your ticket options, plan your visit, and make the most of your time at this iconic Roman landmark. From ticket types and guided tours to opening hours and directions, we’ve got everything covered.
We highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance. Buying tickets at the venue can lead to long queues and limited availability.
Choose the Best Ticket
Step into the rich history of ancient Rome with a visit to the Colosseum, where gladiators once fought for glory and fame. Whether you prefer exploring on your own or want the insights of a local guide, there’s a ticket for every traveler.
Standard Entry Tickets
These are great for self-guided visitors and those on a budget. All tickets include timed entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
- General Entry to Colosseum, Forum & Palatine Hill
Includes access to the three main sites. You can upgrade with an audio guide. This option takes around 3 hours and doesn’t include a live guide. - General Entry to Colosseum, Arena, Forum & Palatine Hill
Adds exclusive access to the Arena floor and Super Sites. Includes a 30-minute multimedia video. Duration: 3 hours. - General Entry to Colosseum & Mamertine Prison
This tour combines access to the Colosseum and the historic Mamertine Prison, accompanied by an audio guide. Duration: 4 hours. Option to upgrade to a guided walking tour.
Guided Tours
Ideal for history lovers and first-time visitors, guided tours include reserved entry, headsets, and expert commentary. Most tours last 3 to 4 hours.
- Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour
Led by a local expert. Available in English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish. - Colosseum, Arena Floor, Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour
Includes Arena floor access and expert-guided exploration. Available in multiple languages. - Colosseum, Underground, Arena, Forum & Palatine Hill Guided Tour
Offers exclusive access to the Underground Chambers and Arena. Guided in English and Spanish.
How to Buy Tickets Through the Official Colosseum Website
Booking online is the best way to secure your preferred time slot and skip long lines.
- Attraction and Date Selection: Choose your visit date and time slot. All tickets are timed for crowd control. There’s a 5 to 10-minute grace period.
- Ticket Selection: Pick your ticket type and number of visitors. Add-ons, such as audio guides, may be available.
- Checkout & Payment: Complete your booking with a credit or debit card. Once confirmed, your e-ticket will be emailed to you. Just show it on your phone at the entrance.
Plan Your Visit to the Colosseum
- Feb 16 to Mar 15: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Mar 16 to Mar 30: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
- Mar 31 to Sep 30: 8:30 am – 7:15 pm
- Oct 1 to Oct 26: 8:30 am – 6:30 pm
Last entry is 1 hour before closing.
Closed: January 1, May 1, and December 25.
- Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
- Metro: Line B to Colosseum Station
- Bus: 51, 75, 85, 87, 118
- Tram: Line 3
Walking: 10-20 minutes from Piazza Venezia or Trevi Fountain
- Main Entrance (Sperone Valadier): For standard ticket holders.
- Group Entrance: For guided tours.
- Stern Entrance: For Arena, Underground, or Belvedere access.
- Accessible Areas: Ground level, Arena, and middle tiers.
- The underground and upper levels are not accessible due to narrow tunnels.
- Visit early (before 9:30 am) or late (after 4:30 pm) for fewer crowds.
- Weekdays (Tues–Thurs) are less crowded than weekends.
- Peak Season: March to September
- Low Season: November to February (best for short wait times and cheaper tickets)
- Book online to avoid sold-out time slots.
- Timed entry: Please arrive on time; only 3,000 visitors are allowed inside at once.
FAQs About the Official Colosseum Website
Is it safe to buy tickets on the official site?
Yes, it’s completely safe. Booking online through the official Colosseum website allows you to skip long queues and save time during your trip.
Who is the Colosseum’s official ticket partner?
Parco Colosseo is the official ticketing authority for the Colosseum, which runs the primary ticket platform: ticketing.colosseo.it.
Do I need to print my Colosseum ticket?
No. A digital ticket (PDF with QR code) shown on your smartphone is usually enough. Just show it after passing through security.
Are skip-the-line tickets available on the official website?
The official site doesn’t clearly mention skip-the-line options. For guaranteed fast entry, consider booking via verified resellers offering skip-the-line tours.
What languages are supported on the official site?
The Colosseum’s official website is available in English and Italian.
