Colosseum Underground Tour – tickets, prices, what to expect

Step back in time with the Colosseum Underground Guided 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. 

As you walk through ancient tunnels, your expert guide will share fascinating stories, helping you understand the rich history of the Colosseum. 

If you want to see a side of the Colosseum most visitors miss, this underground tour is perfect for you. All Underground tours also include access to the Arena.

With fast-track entry, you’ll skip the long lines and enjoy a more relaxed experience as you explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

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.
• An expert will accompany you, sharing captivating stories and insights into the 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 maximum group size is limited to 24 participants, which makes the experience more personal and engaging.
• Time slots are available from 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm, giving you flexibility in choosing a time that fits your schedule.
• The tour lasts 3 hours, letting you explore each site at a relaxed pace.

Ticket prices

Adult (18+ years): €125
Child (2 to 17 years): €108
Infant (0 to 1 years): €27

Meeting point  

Meet your guide at 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 typically off-limits to regular visitors. This provides a unique opportunity to experience the Colosseum in a way that most people miss. 

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, making it a comprehensive experience that fully immerses you in the heart of ancient Rome. If you’re looking to dive deeper into the history of the Colosseum, this tour is definitely worth it.

Highlights of the Arena 

A visit to the Arena is the first part of the tour. As part of this Tour, you’ll enter through the historic Porta Libertina, or “Gate of Death,” with the Porta Triumphalis, or “Gate of Life,” ahead. 

You can witness the emperor’s seat, a replicated trapdoor used in ancient battles, and a Christian cross erected by Mussolini in 1926. 

You’ll also see an 18th-century altar once used for religious ceremonies, offering a glimpse into the Colosseum’s fascinating and complex history.

Highlights of the Underground

As you explore the Colosseum Underground, you’ll walk through tunnels that were once hidden for centuries, revealing well-preserved 1st-century walls and brick structures. 

One of the most fascinating features is the blocked corridor that connected the gladiator training school (Ludus Magnus) to the Colosseum. 

You’ll also see bronze capstans embedded in the floor, which were likely used to operate trapdoors for dramatic entrances. 

Don’t miss the replica wooden elevator, once used to lift gladiators and animals to the Arena, and the impressive drainage system that once channeled rainwater from the Labicano Creek. 

This part of the Colosseum gives you an intimate look at the engineering marvels that helped make the games possible.

Know before you go 

• All guided tours of the Colosseum include access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. 
• Some areas of the Colosseum are only accessible to guided groups, meaning individual visitors cannot enter these sections. To fully experience the Colosseum, a guided tour is the best option. 
• Be sure to arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled time, as strict visitor capacity limits are in place. Late arrivals may miss the tour and will not be eligible for a refund.
• Carry a valid ID, as it is required for security checks. 
• Some tickets require the correct names of the tourists to be entered and verified twice before the trip starts. You will be asked for this information when booking your tickets. 
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a lot of walking.
• Large bags are not allowed inside the Colosseum.

Frequently Asked Questions