If you’re planning to visit the Colosseum in Rome in 2025, choosing the right ticket will determine whether you only see the basic areas or get access to the arena, underground, and panoramic views from the upper levels of the Colosseum, as well as the nearby Forum and Palatine Hill.
Tickets for Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tours
In this guide, you’ll discover which tickets offer access to the most interesting areas, their pros and cons, and practical tips for booking online based on your budget, time, and interests. My goal is to help you make an informed choice and enjoy the Colosseum without stress or disappointment.
Not sure which ticket is the right one for you? Here you’ll find everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit and answer the question: what’s the best way to tour the Colosseum in Rome?
The Best Colosseum Tickets for 2025
Choosing the right Colosseum ticket can make all the difference in what kind of experience you’ll have—whether you’ll only see the main areas or immerse yourself fully in the history of this awe-inspiring monument. Below I’ve outlined the main types of tickets available for 2025, along with my personal take on their pros and cons.
1. Standard Ticket from Parco Colosseo / Coopculture
(Access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill)
This is the most affordable option for visiting the Colosseum and grants access to the first and second tiers of the amphitheater, as well as nearby historical sites—the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. It’s perfect for visitors who simply want to check the Colosseum off their list without delving deeper.
Its main drawback is that it doesn’t include access to the arena or underground levels—among the most fascinating parts of the complex. Additionally, this ticket is date- and time-specific, with no changes or cancellations allowed. Arrive late, and you lose both your ticket and your money.
Note that these tickets go on sale only up to 30 days before your desired date, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on availability—especially during peak travel seasons.
2. Colosseum Ticket with Arena Access & “SUPER Sites”
(Colosseum + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill + 7 unique sites)
This ticket is slightly better than the standard option, as it allows you to access not only the first and second floors of the Colosseum but also the arena floor – where the famous gladiator battles took place. It’s impressive to stand in the very place where, thousands of years ago, the fate of fighters was decided in front of thousands of spectators.
Additionally, the price includes access to the so-called “SUPER sites” – seven specially designated landmarks in the Roman Forum and on Palatine Hill. These include attractions like the Criptoportico neroniano, the Palatine Museum, the House of Emperor Augustus, the House of Livia, the underground hall Aula Isiaca, the Temple of Romulus, and the Church of Santa Maria. This makes the ticket extremely valuable for those who want to explore the history and architecture of Ancient Rome in more depth.
Important: The ticket does not include access to the underground levels of the Colosseum, which are reserved for guided tours only. Cancellation is not possible, so book only if you’re sure of your travel date.
3. Colosseum Ticket with Access to Arena, Underground, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
This ticket grants access to the first and second floors of the Colosseum, the arena, and its underground chambers. The ticket price also includes a visit to the Roman Forum.
If you’re looking for the most comprehensive way to experience the Colosseum, this ticket is the best choice. It grants you access to all main and extended areas – the first and second floors, the arena, and the impressive underground levels that are usually off-limits to standard visitors.
Moreover, it includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, giving you a complete tour of Ancient Rome’s key sites – all with one ticket.
The price is fully justified, especially considering the scope of access.
Reservations can be made up to 30 days before the visit, so don’t delay planning.
Note that the ticket cannot be canceled or modified, and it does not include a guide – if you want on-site explanations, you’ll need to book one separately or use an audio guide.
4. Colosseum Ticket with Underground Access + Guided Tour (in English)
If you want to dive even deeper into the history of the Colosseum – both literally and figuratively – this ticket is a great choice. It includes a guided tour in English, as well as access to the underground area, arena, the first and second floors of the amphitheater, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
2. Colosseum Ticket with Arena Access and “SUPER sites”
(Colosseum + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill + 7 unique sites)
One of the most valuable advantages of this ticket is being accompanied by an experienced guide who will explain how the underground areas functioned, how gladiators prepared for battle, and how the logistics of the arena worked—information you won’t get from just looking around.
Tickets are available for specific dates and times and can only be booked up to 30 days in advance. The only real downside is that they cannot be canceled or changed, so it’s important to be sure of your date.
This is my personal favorite when visiting the Colosseum—this tour adds value, context, and completely changes the way you perceive the place.
5. Priority Access Ticket to the Colosseum, Arena, Forum, and Palatine Hill – Skip-the-Line
(via GetYourGuide – no guide included)
This ticket is ideal for people who want to avoid wait times, but don’t necessarily need a guide. It provides fast access to the 1st and 2nd levels of the Colosseum, the arena, as well as the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill—the three main historical zones in the complex.
The ticket is sold through the GetYourGuide platform, known for convenient booking and good customer service, especially for last-minute bookings.
As with most official tickets, this one can be reserved up to 30 days in advance.
This option does not include a live guide, so if you’re looking for a deeper experience with storytelling and historical context, you’ll need to use an audio guide or choose a guided tour instead.
Suitable for travelers who want a more flexible experience with solid logistics, but don’t need full on-site interpretation.
6. Semi-Guided Colosseum Ticket with Arena, Underground, and Main-Level Access
This ticket is a great choice for those who want to learn more about the Colosseum from a professional guide, without joining crowded groups. It provides access to the 1st and 2nd levels, the arena, and the underground areas—one of the most mysterious and impressive parts of the complex.
The tour is available only at certain times of the day, so it’s a good idea to book early, especially during the tourist season. Unlike most other tickets, this tour can be reserved several months in advance, making it convenient for people who plan their trip ahead of time.
The price is higher than standard tickets without a guide, but it’s well justified – especially if you value history, context, and professional storytelling during the visit.
7. Family Tour of the Colosseum and Ancient Rome with a Guide from Kids Raphael
(Specifically designed for children – no access to the underground)
If you’re traveling with kids and looking for a tour that will engage, entertain, and educate them, this option is ideal. The tour is led by a guide from Kids Raphael – a company specialized in organizing age-appropriate and interest-based itineraries for children.
The tour covers the main areas of the Colosseum and Ancient Rome, presented through stories, games, and accessible explanations that turn ancient architecture into a real adventure for young visitors.
It’s suitable for families with children aged 6 to 12 years. The only limitation is that the underground zone of the Colosseum is not included with this ticket.
An excellent choice if you want your children to remember the visit not just as another museum, but as an exciting journey into the world of gladiators.
8. Colosseum Ticket with “Roman Gladiators” Tour – Themed Experience for Kids and Parents
(with a guide from GreyLine – no underground access)
This tour is a perfect choice for families looking for a more informal and fun experience inspired by the gladiatorial glory of the Colosseum. The tour is led by a guide from GreyLine and includes access to the first and second levels, as well as the arena – the site of real battles.
During the tour, kids learn interesting facts about gladiators, their weapons, and their battles, all told in a captivating and accessible way. The thematic approach makes the experience more engaging and interactive, especially for young visitors.
It’s suitable for families with children who want to blend history with an element of play. The tour does not include access to the underground zone, so if that’s a priority – look for a ticket with full access.
An excellent choice for a shorter yet memorable tour with a themed twist.
9. Small Group Tour Tickets of the Colosseum: Underground, Arena, Forum, and Palatine Hill
(With a guide from LivTours)
If you’re looking for a premium experience with attention to detail and personalized service, this tour is perfect for you. Organized by LivTours, it includes access to the underground level of the Colosseum, a walk across the arena, and a guided tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
What sets this tour apart is its small-group format, meaning you get more opportunities to ask questions, better visibility, and a more intimate experience without the crowds. The guides are experienced and explain with attention to detail, bringing the site’s history to life in an exciting way.
The price may seem higher compared to standard tickets, but for what you get—full access, expert guidance, and a relaxed atmosphere—it’s absolutely worth it.
I recommend this option for those who want to see everything important without feeling like part of a tourist mass.
Is Visiting the Colosseum in Rome Worth It?
Early in this guide, I asked the question that you’re probably asking too: is all the fuss around the Colosseum really worth it?
My answer is emphatic: Yes, absolutely!
The Colosseum is not just an ancient structure—it’s a living testament to the scale, ambition, and culture of Ancient Rome. Its very presence commands awe with its grand size and architecture that has withstood nearly 2,000 years of time.
Visiting it allows you to immerse yourself in the world of gladiators, emperors, and the thousands of spectators who experienced the drama of the arena. And the interior of the Colosseum—with its multi-tiered levels, arena views, and remnants of the past—is not only beautiful, but deeply moving.
For photography enthusiasts, this place is a true dream—especially in the right light and from the perfect angle and for anyone who loves history, this experience is one of the best reasons to visit Rome.
Which Parts of the Colosseum Are Worth Visiting?
The Colosseum is not just a building—it’s a complex of zones with different functions and access levels, and each ticket type grants entry to specific parts. That’s why it’s important to know in advance what you want to see so you can choose the right ticket.
- The underground level
This is perhaps the most exciting and authentic part of the Colosseum. Located beneath the arena, it consists of a network of corridors, rooms, and hydraulic systems used to prepare gladiators, store animals, and stage props. Here you can get a real sense of how the amphitheater functioned “behind the scenes”—something not visible from the outside.
One of the highlights in this area is the replica of an ancient elevator used to bring animals and performers to the stage—a true engineering marvel from antiquity. For children, this is one of the most impressive parts of the visit.
If you want to explore the underground levels, you’ll need a full experience ticket from Parco Colosseo, which can be supplemented with a guided tour for deeper insight. I personally highly recommend this combination—especially if you’re traveling with family.
- The Arena – The Heart of the ColosseumThe arena is the central stage of the Colosseum—the place where legendary gladiatorial battles, wild animal hunts, and various spectacles were performed for the Roman audience. When you step onto the arena, you are literally standing on the ground where warriors once fought for glory and survival millennia ago. From this position, you’ll see not only the stands and seating areas but also get a glimpse of the underground zone—one of the most fascinating technical aspects of the amphitheater. All main tickets, including standard and guided ones, include access to the arena. If you’re looking for convenience and flexible cancellation, I’d recommend the ticket from GetYourGuide—especially if you’re planning your visit a few weeks in advance. The flexibility it offers can save you a lot of stress.
- Second Level – Exhibition and Panoramic ViewsOn the second level of the Colosseum, you’ll not only get an even better perspective of the arena and stands but also find the permanent exhibition dedicated to the history and architecture of the amphitheater. Here, you can explore artifacts, models, and visual materials that illustrate how the Colosseum was designed and used over the centuries. From this floor, you’ll also enjoy picturesque views of both the interior of the monument and the city of modern Rome, making it a perfect spot for photos and a short break between explorations. Access to the second level is included in nearly all types of tickets and tours, so don’t skip it even if you’re not visiting the arena or underground levels.
- Top Level of the Colosseum – A View Worth the ClimbIf you’re looking for the most breathtaking view of the Colosseum and Rome, there’s no better place than the top terrace of the amphitheater. From here, you get a full panorama of the arena and the internal structure of the Colosseum, giving you the feeling of standing above time—as an observer of millennia of history. But that’s not all—when you look outward, you’ll see how the ancient world merges with the modern city, with the Roman Forum, Via dei Fori Imperiali, and the surrounding hills unfolding before you like a painting. If you love photography, this is the perfect spot for photos, especially at sunset or during golden hour. Keep in mind that access to the upper terrace is only available with a guided tour, usually included in full-access or organized tours.
Which Colosseum Ticket is Best for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it all depends on your interests, time, and expectations. Here’s how to choose:
First Time at the Colosseum
Choose a standard ticket or skip-the-line to explore freely with basic information.
For Families with Children
A skip-the-line ticket saves time and stress. Some tours include activities for kids.
For History Enthusiasts
A guided tour is the best way to understand the history of the Colosseum and the gladiators.
For Photography Lovers
A ticket with arena access offers a unique perspective for crowd-free shots.
For People with Limited Time
Choose a fast-track entry with a specific time slot to avoid waiting.
Best Time to Visit the Colosseum Based on Ticket Type
Your choice of ticket often depends on when you plan to visit the Colosseum. Here’s how to strategically plan your time:
Morning Hours (8:30 – 10:30)
- Ideal for standard and fast-track tickets
- Fewer crowds
- Softer lighting for photos
Afternoon (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
- Great time for guided tours
- Warmer weather, but more tourists
- Possible queues at the Colosseum, especially without a pass
At Sunset
- Perfect for arena access – “golden” light
- Limited spots and time slots
- Book in advance
What Does Each Type of Colosseum Ticket Include?
Standard Ticket
Includes:
- Access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
- 24-hour validity
Best for: Visitors who want to explore at their own pace
Tip: Ideal if you already have basic knowledge or use an audio guide
Skip-the-Line Ticket
Includes:
- Fast access without waiting
Best for: Families, travelers with limited time, impatient tourists
Tip: Often valid only for a specific time slot — be punctual!
Guided Tour
Includes:
- Guide in English/Italian
- History, anecdotes, little-known facts included
Best for: True history enthusiasts
Tip: Groups usually max out at 20 people — book early to secure your spot
Ticket with Arena Access
What’s included:
- Entry onto the floor of the arena where the battles took place
Best for: Photography enthusiasts, romantics seeking a unique experience
Tip: Some tickets include a guide
Combined Underground & Guide Ticket
What’s included:
- All zones + the underground level
- Guide and full historical overview
Best for: Visitors wanting the full “behind-the-scenes” experience
Tip: This ticket is the most limited in availability — book days in advance
Frequently Asked Questions About Colosseum Tickets
Do I need to print my ticket to enter the Colosseum?
No, all tickets purchased through GetYourGuide are mobile and can be scanned directly from your phone.
Can I visit the Roman Forum on a different day?
No, the ticket for the Roman Forum and Colosseum is valid for 24 hours and allows a one-time entry into each site — the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Palatine Hill. Plan carefully!
Are there discounts for children on Colosseum tickets?
Yes. Children up to 17 often enter for free or at a significant discount — select the correct age and quantity when booking.
Can I cancel my Colosseum access ticket?
Most Colosseum access tickets can be canceled up to 24–48 hours before the start time. Check the specific terms in the ticket description.
What to Do If You’re Late and Miss Your Colosseum Entry Time?
Timed entry tickets to the Colosseum can only be used during the designated time window. If you’re late, access may be denied. Arrive at least 15 minutes early.
Additional Tips for Your Colosseum Visit
- Entrance is from the south side of the Colosseum – follow the signs for “Entry with online ticket.”
- Do not bring large bags or bottles over 0.5L – strict security checks are in place.
- Access is partially adapted for people with reduced mobility – use the elevator to reach upper floors.
- The best photos are taken in the morning or at sunset from the outer perimeter and the arena.
- Visit the Forum and Palatine Hill before the Colosseum – they are quieter in the early hours.
Book Your Colosseum Access Ticket Today
The Colosseum is one of the most visited sites in the world — tickets often sell out weeks in advance, especially those that include access to the arena and underground levels.
Choose the right ticket for you and make a reservation now through the trusted GetYourGuide platform: