Colosseum Guided Tour: Gladiator’s arena with restricted areas

This tour will take you to the most iconic sights of Rome. First, you'll visit the spectacular arena floor, where gladiators fought for life and glory on a sand-covered surface. Then, you'll witness the breathtaking views from the Palatine Hills before exploring the Roman Forum and delving into the history and stories of life in Ancient Rome, also known as the Eternal City. Please note that the tour may start either with the arena or the Palatine Hill.

What you can expect

Meet your licensed, English-speaking guide at the Arch of Constantine before enjoying express, skip-the-line access to the Flavian Amphitheatre, better known as the Colosseum. This incredible monument holds several records: it is the biggest and best-preserved Roman amphitheater in the world, and its tiers could accommodate up to 75,000 people. The Colosseum is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the entire ancient center of Rome, and is officially listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

This tour takes you to the first and second tiers of the Colosseum, but you will also have the unique privilege of entering and walking on the arena floor—something most visitors don't get to do (regular entrances only allow visitors to walk on the edge of the arena). This is where beasts and gladiators fought bloody battles to entertain cheering crowds during incredible shows offered by the emperors to their people.

The Arena

"Entering the Colosseum through the Gladiators’ Gate brings visitors directly to the arena and makes them feel like gladiators of the third millennium."

The Arena is considered the most vital part of the Colosseum, where games, battles, and shows took place. In addition to gladiator fights, death sentences were carried out in the arena. There were also representations of haunting scenes with ferocious animals and naval battles, with the arena being flooded to reproduce a small lake where boats could be turned.

Be ready to become a Roman Spectator by listening to the vivid description of your guide. They will explain in detail how these shows were prepared and why they were so important for Roman society. They will also reveal true stories and secrets about some of the most famous characters in Roman history.

The Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum

After leaving the Colosseum, take a moment to admire the triumphant Arch of Constantine. This arch, dating back to the 4th century, symbolizes the moment in which the namesake emperor made Christianity the religion of the Empire.

Next, head to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, which served as the social and political center of Ancient Rome and was once a bustling market. This area is also known as the beating heart of the city and is the oldest part of the eternal city. While exploring, learn about the politics, religion, and everyday life of a Roman citizen, as well as the story of the she-wolf that nursed Romulus and Remus, founders of the city.

Join us for a journey back in time to the glorious days of the great Roman Empire and experience what it was like to live as a true Roman.

Highlights

• Enjoy privileged access to the Colosseum arena with an express skip-the-line entrance.
• Skip the long lines to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.
• Relive and learn about the glorious days of the gladiators with an expert English-speaking guide.
• Learn about the everyday life of ancient Rome.
• Admire the impressive Arch of Constantine and the Arch of Titus.

Additional information

• Every participant must bring a passport, ID, or driving license (or photocopy) on the day of the tour.
• Due to increased security measures at the attractions, lines may form at the entrance.
• To comply with the strict security protocols of the attractions, certain items are not allowed inside (such as knives, scissors, and glass bottles).
• Large backpacks or bulky luggage are not permitted.
• Please wear comfortable shoes and, on hot days, a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Prices

• The entrance ticket fee to the archaeological sites is €16 for adults (22€ for the arena option) accompanied by a €2 reservation fee.
• The additional amount covers services provided by experienced licensed guides, audio devices, reservation fees, and other tour amenities.
• The objective is to promote transparency and ensure your comprehension of the cost breakdown.