ArcheoRoma / Tours / Colosseum, Arena, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill: Small-Group Guided Tour

Colosseum, Arena, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill: Small-Group Guided Tour

4.5/5    (150088 reviews)
Experience a guided tour of Rome's Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Skip the lines with priority access, walk the Arena Floor, and explore ancient Rome.

  • Duration:
    2h 55m

  • Location:
    Piazza del Colosseo, 58

  • Available language:
    English

  • Accessibility:
    Not available for wheelchair users

  • Instant ticket delivery:
    Yes

  • Maximum number of people:
    25

  • Ticket on smartphone:
    Available

Colosseum Arena and Roman Forum small group tour
Left: the Temple of Saturn in the Roman Forum, one of the oldest temples in Rome, originally dedicated to Saturn around 497 BCE. Right: a view of the Colosseum, with the iconic Arena in the foreground, once the stage for legendary gladiatorial battles.

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Uncover the Heart of Ancient Rome through an Expert-Led Journey

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Rome’s most celebrated landmarks: the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. This tour offers an immersive walk through centuries of history, where you’ll explore the gladiators’ battlegrounds, witness remnants of ancient Roman civilization, and uncover the stories that once brought these monumental structures to life. Begin at the Colosseum, then wander through the Roman Forum, once the center of political and social life, before reaching the scenic Palatine Hill for stunning views of the ancient cityscape.

What’s included

  • Reserved entrance to the Colosseum
  • Reserved entrance to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
  • Admission to the Arena Floor
  • Guided tour of Colosseum and Roman Forum
  • Headset to hear the guide

This carefully curated tour package grants reserved access to some of Rome’s most cherished historical sites. Visitors gain priority entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, bypassing standard queues. Experience the famous Arena Floor, where gladiators once fought valiantly, while learning about the Colosseum’s role in Roman culture and society. After the Colosseum, the tour continues to the Roman Forum, where ancient ruins reveal the secrets of temples, political hubs, and marketplaces that shaped the Roman Empire. Finally, ascend Palatine Hill to explore ancient palaces and take in a panoramic view over the historic ruins and the Eternal City.

What’s not included

  • Food and drinks
  • Transportation to/from attractions

Why choose this tour?

This tour is ideal for those seeking a deep dive into Rome’s ancient history and architecture, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the stories of the city to life. Compared to other tours available for these landmarks, this tour provides a comprehensive, immersive experience with reserved entry to reduce waiting times and includes areas not always accessible to the public, such as the Arena Floor. It’s designed for individuals or groups eager to learn about the cultural and historical significance of these sites in detail, making it an exceptional choice for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Colosseum: The Grand Stage of Ancient Rome

The main attraction of this tour is undoubtedly the Colosseum, one of the world’s most iconic monuments, located in the heart of Rome. Originally an amphitheater for grand public spectacles, it remains a testament to Roman engineering and social traditions.

The Arena Floor: A Legacy of Gladiatorial Combat

On the Arena Floor, visitors are transported back to a time when gladiators faced fierce battles for survival. This space, known as the “Sand of Blood,” was where entertainers and warriors fought for honor, often in front of tens of thousands of spectators. Standing here offers a unique opportunity to visualize the bravery, fear, and excitement that once filled the air in ancient Rome, as well as the complex design that allowed for such grand spectacles.

Exploring the Roman Forum: Political and Social Hub

The Roman Forum, adjacent to the Colosseum, serves as a gateway into the heart of ancient Roman life. This open-air space was once Rome’s political, legal, and commercial center. As visitors walk past the ruins of temples, basilicas, and meeting places, they gain insight into the lives of Roman citizens and the structures that upheld Roman society. The Forum was a place where crucial events unfolded, shaping the destiny of the empire.

Palatine Hill: A View from Rome’s Oldest Residence

Rising above the Forum, Palatine Hill is a historical site rich in legend and archaeological wonders. Known as the birthplace of Rome’s earliest settlements, it later housed imperial palaces and was the preferred residence of emperors and elites. With its panoramic views, Palatine Hill allows visitors to take in the scope of the Roman Empire’s grandeur while exploring ruins that span centuries of Roman habitation.

Instructions

  • Meet at 58 Piazza del Colosseo, Rome, at the lower level exit of the Colosseo Metro Station, close to the newsstand. Please arrive 15 minutes early.
  • Present your smartphone voucher to the guide, who will have a “Tours of Rome” sign at the designated meeting point.
  • Receive entry tickets for all locations from the guide on the day of the tour.
  • Follow all safety instructions provided, particularly concerning restricted items inside the Colosseum.

Arrive at the lower level exit of the Colosseo Metro Station, where the guide will await with a visible “Tours of Rome” sign. It’s essential to arrive 15 minutes in advance to ensure a smooth start. Present your voucher on your smartphone for verification. The guide will provide entry tickets and lead you through each step, offering detailed information along the way.

Advices

Dress comfortably for walking and wear suitable shoes, as the tour involves extensive walking and some stair climbing. Remember to carry minimal belongings, as large bags and backpacks are not permitted in the Colosseum.

Reschedule and cancellation policy

Tickets can be canceled or rescheduled up to 23:59 on the day prior to your visit.

Reviews

150088 verified customer reviews
G

Greg

Oct 24, 2024

Outstanding

Excellent

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