Ready to step back in time and explore the heart of Ancient Rome? Get ready for an unforgettable journey through history, art, and culture. This guide will help you plan your trip, from understanding opening hours and what to pack to discovering hidden gems and experiencing the best of Rome.
Planning Your Visit
When is the best time to visit the Colosseum? The opening hours vary depending on the time of year:
- January 2nd to February 15th: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
- February 16th to March 15th: 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
- March 16th to the Last Saturday of March: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- The Last Sunday of March to August 31st: 8:30 AM to 6:15 PM
- September 1st to September 30th: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- October 1st to the Last Saturday of October: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- The Last Sunday of October to December 31st: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
What should you leave at home?
- Large bags or backpacks: They’re just not practical for exploring.
- Wheeled or roller bags: These are not permitted inside the Colosseum.
- Glass containers or bottles: These are prohibited for safety reasons.
- Weapons, including pocket knives: For obvious reasons, these are not allowed.
- Aerosol sprays: Leave these behind, too.
Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended! This is the best way to avoid those long lines and guarantee your entry to this iconic attraction. You can choose your preferred date and time slot, making your visit smoother and more efficient. Advance bookings often offer the convenience of “skip-the-line” access, allowing you to bypass queues and make the most of your time exploring the Colosseum and its surroundings.
The Colosseum: A Glimpse Into Ancient Rome
The Colosseum is a breathtaking example of ancient Roman architecture. Built around 70-80 AD by Emperor Vespasian, this massive amphitheater was the center of entertainment for the Roman Empire. It could hold up to 80,000 spectators and was used for gladiator fights, animal hunts, and even mock naval battles.
The design is just as impressive as the scale. This large oval structure stands around 48 meters tall, featuring four levels. Built from limestone, concrete, and bricks, it has three tiers of arches decorated with different types of columns: Doric columns on the lower level, Ionic columns in the middle, and Corinthian columns on the upper level. With ramps, stairs, and tunnels, the Colosseum ensured easy movement for people and animals during events. This clever design made it efficient for spectators to enter and leave, and for shows to be staged, highlighting the Romans’ incredible skill in architecture.
The Colosseum’s beauty shines even brighter at night. It’s a captivating sight to see the Colosseum illuminated against the dark sky. This majestic view evokes its thrilling history and reminds us of the grandeur of Ancient Rome.
Experiencing the Best of Rome
Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic Roman cuisine while in Rome! Despite the city’s upscale dining options, nothing beats the flavor of street food. Seek out spots frequented by locals, a sure sign of delicious and high-quality fare.
A little tip about tipping in Rome: Many restaurants automatically include a service charge in your bill. However, if you’re particularly pleased with the service or if the bill doesn’t include a service charge, it’s customary to leave a 10% tip.
Comfortable shoes are a must! Rome is a city to explore on foot, and you’ll be walking a lot. Comfortable footwear ensures you can fully enjoy the city’s wonders without any discomfort.
Consider joining a guided tour! A friendly and knowledgeable guide can help you explore the highlights of Ancient Rome with a small group.
- Start at the Colosseum: Learn about its architecture and the Romans’ love for games.
- Step onto the arena floor: Imagine the gladiators fighting right where you stand!
- Wander through Palatine Hill: Explore the oldest part of Rome, where Emperors once lived.
- Descend into the Roman Forum: Walk along ancient roads and marvel at temples, offices, and the senate building.
Avoid waiting in line and gain valuable insights with a local guide. Discover the rich history of these famous landmarks and experience the grandeur of the Colosseum and Ancient Rome in a personalized and unforgettable way.
Discover the hidden gems of the Roman Forum on a private tour: Meet your guide at Trajan’s Column and take a short walk through the Imperial Forum before entering the famous Roman Forum. Your private guide will point out the most famous monuments, as well as those hidden gems often missed on larger tours.
Beyond the Colosseum: Vatican City and More
A visit to the Vatican in Rome is a must! It’s a center of global reverence, housing the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church.
- The Vatican Museums: Admire a vast array of artistic treasures, including iconic works by Michelangelo and Raphael.
- The Sistine Chapel: Prepare to be mesmerized by Michelangelo’s masterpiece on the ceiling!
- St. Peter’s Basilica: Experience awe-inspiring architecture and religious significance.
Venture into the heart of Rome to explore charming neighborhoods.
- Trastevere: Lose yourself in narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Experience the bohemian charm with bustling piazzas, lively trattorias, and vibrant nightlife.
- Monti: Discover a more eclectic ambiance, blending ancient ruins with trendy boutiques and artisanal shops. Its labyrinthine alleys lead to hidden gems, quaint cafes, and artisan workshops, making it a haven for artists and creatives.
Both neighborhoods offer picturesque squares where locals gather, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls.
Free Museum Entry! Every first Sunday of the month, entry to state-owned museums, galleries, parks, and some archaeological sites in Rome is free. Remember, it’s the busiest day of the month, so arrive early!
The Iconic Colosseum: A Symbol of Rome
The Colosseum is not only the most visited monument in Rome, but also in all of Italy. It is the icon of the ancient Roman Empire and of the modern city today, much like the Eiffel Tower in Paris. In its day, it was a symbol of prestige and power, showcasing the might and, yes, sometimes the savagery of the ancient Romans.
So, pack your bags, put on your most comfortable shoes, and get ready to be captivated by Rome’s rich history, architectural wonders, and vibrant culture!
