Rome: Colosseum Underground Experience, with Roman Forum

Celio, Rome, Rome



Less than 2% of visitors to the Colosseum are able to access the Underground, making tours a rare opportunity. This experience provides special access to both the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.

This guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill in Rome offers exclusive arena floor access and suits history enthusiasts, families, and photographers.

Highlights

  • Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with special access to new exhibits
  • Learn about ancient Roman history from an expert licensed guide
  • Access the Colosseum arena floor, walking where emperors, gladiators, and prisoners once stood

Description

Step into ancient Rome on this exclusive Colosseum Arena Floor tour, which includes visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (Caesar’s Palace). Enter through the Gladiators’ Gate with a licensed guide and experience 2,000 years of history at these iconic landmarks.

Enter the Colosseum Like a Gladiator

Enter the Colosseum through the Gladiators’ Gate, historically reserved for warriors. Stand on the arena floor where gladiators and wild animals were launched into combat via trapdoors and elevators. Capture unique photos from this rare perspective.

Discover the Colosseum’s Secrets

Hear accounts of epic battles, naval reenactments, and how emperors used the games to display power. Learn about the Colosseum’s construction in just eight years, its role in Roman society, and why it is recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Explore the Roman Forum

Walk through the Roman Forum, once the center of political and religious life. See temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches, including the Arch of Titus, Temple of Saturn, and the House of the Vestal Virgins. Your guide will explain the significance of these ruins in daily Roman life and ceremonies.

Ascend Palatine Hill – Caesar’s Palace

Climb the legendary Palatine Hill, where emperors built their palaces. According to legend, Romulus founded Rome here in 753 BC. Enjoy views of the Colosseum, Forum, and city skyline, concluding your tour.

Why Book This Tour?

  • Exclusive Arena Floor Access through the Gladiators’ Gate
  • Optional Colosseum Underground Access (select this option if you want access to the dungeons)
  • Expert licensed guide specializing in ancient history
  • Comprehensive 3-in-1 experience: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

Includes

  • Licensed local guide for guided tours (audio guide option available without a live guide)
  • Entry to the Roman Forum, Caesar's Palace, and Colosseum via the guided entrance
  • Access to either the Colosseum Underground dungeons or arena floor (choose one option)
  • Access to selected rooms in Caesar's Palace

Excludes

  • Transportation
  • Food and drinks

Important Information

  • Tickets for the Colosseum’s Underground Dungeons are extremely limited. Book early to secure access.
  • The tour start time may change; any adjustments will be communicated promptly by email or phone.
  • Provide the full name of each guest at booking to secure physical tickets.
  • Bring a valid photo ID matching the reservation name; failure to do so will result in denied entry.
  • The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.
  • Small group option available for a more personal experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sun protection during summer months.
  • Not wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 3 days in advance for a 50% refund.

For the best experience, book early and wear comfortable footwear. Bring a valid ID and consider the weather when planning your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes the Colosseum arena floor, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
A licensed guide with expertise in ancient Roman history leads the tour.
Yes, visitors enter the Colosseum arena floor, including the Gladiators’ Gate.
The tour begins through the Gladiators’ Gate, the entrance once used by gladiators.
Yes, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are part of the combined tour.
Tour duration varies, so check the website for current details on timing.
Yes, the tour is designed to be engaging for families and history enthusiasts.
Yes, photography is allowed throughout the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot as access is limited.
Due to the nature of the underground and ancient sites, accessibility is limited; check the website for specific details.

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again