Exploring the hidden wonders of ancient Rome is a captivating experience, and this expert-led tour offers a chance to uncover the Colosseum’s underground tunnels, the iconic arena floor, and the Roman Forum. With exclusive access to areas off-limits to regular visitors, you’ll explore the rich history of these architectural marvels, guided by a knowledgeable expert who brings the past to life. From the security checks to the accessibility considerations, this comprehensive tour promises a memorable journey through Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Get ready to be swept away by the grandeur of one of the world’s most renowned ancient sites.
Just The Basics
- This guided tour provides exclusive access to the Colosseum’s underground level or the Arena floor, areas not accessible to regular ticket holders.
- The tour includes a comprehensive exploration of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, led by a dedicated expert guide.
- Participants will receive sterilized earphones to listen to the guide’s captivating historical insights during the 2.5-hour tour.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and multiple staircases, and infants must sit on laps.
- Strict security checks are in place, and certain prohibited items, such as glass/metal containers and large backpacks, are not allowed.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Overview of the Tour
This guided tour allows visitors to explore areas of the Colosseum not accessible to regular ticket holders, including the underground level, the Arena, and the Roman Forum.
With a dedicated tour guide, you’ll explore the captivating history of these iconic ancient sites. The tour includes access to the coveted underground section or the Arena floor, giving you an immersive experience.
Along the way, you’ll also explore the impressive Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, learning about the rich history and architecture that defined ancient Rome.
With a maximum group size of 25, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience as you uncover the secrets of these remarkable landmarks.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes dedicated entrance tickets, reservation fees, access to either the underground section or the Arena floor, and a guided tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with a live expert guide. Travelers will also receive sterilized earphones to listen to the commentary during the tour.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Service animals are allowed, but infants must sit on laps.
Strict security checks are in place at the Colosseum and Roman Forum entrances, so certain items like knives, drones, and large backpacks are prohibited.
The tour is also subject to favorable weather conditions, and each traveler must present a valid ID document.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Travelers meet at Piazza del Colosseo, 21, 00184 Roma RM, Italy and the tour ends at the Roman Forum, Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy. This convenient location puts guests right at the entrance to the iconic Colosseum. After exploring the underground tunnels or arena floor, the guided tour continues through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
| Meeting Point | End Point | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Colosseum | Roman Forum | 2.5 hrs |
| Piazza del Colosseo | Via della Salara Vecchia | – |
| 00184 Roma | 00186 Roma | – |
The tour is packed with highlights, but travelers should note it’s not wheelchair accessible. This expert-led experience offers an in-depth look at Roman history and architecture.
Guided Tour Itinerary
The guided tour itinerary takes visitors on an immersive journey through the Colosseum’s underground tunnels, the arena floor, the Arch of Constantine, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill.
Exploring the underground level allows you to see where the gladiators and wild animals were kept, while the arena floor gives you a glimpse into the spectacle that once took place above.
Then, you’ll move on to the Arch of Constantine and learn about its historical significance.
The tour continues through the iconic Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, where you’ll uncover the rich history and architectural wonders of ancient Rome.
With a live expert guide and commentary through headsets, this tour offers an immersive and educational experience.
Accessibility and Restrictions
While the tour offers an immersive journey through the Colosseum’s historic sites, it’s not wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain and multiple staircases throughout the underground, arena, and hillside areas.
Service animals are allowed.
The strict security checks at the Colosseum and Roman Forum entrances mean visitors can’t bring items like glass/metal containers, sprays, knives, and large backpacks. Drones and trolleys are also prohibited.
Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
Security Checks and Policies
Strict security checks await visitors at both the Colosseum and Roman Forum entrances, where officials thoroughly inspect belongings for prohibited items like glass/metal containers, sprays, knives, and large backpacks.
Drone flying, trolleys, and animals are also not allowed inside.
Travelers must present a valid passport or ID document before entry.
This tight security ensures the safety and preservation of these historic sites. While it may add some time to the start of the tour, these measures are necessary to protect both visitors and the ancient structures.
Travelers should plan accordingly and come prepared to comply with the security protocols for a seamless experience.
Tour Duration and Group Size
The tour covers a total duration of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with dedicated time allotted for each key site. Groups are capped at a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and allowing for easy navigation through the historic landmarks.
Visitors will spend around 1 hour and 10 minutes exploring the Colosseum, followed by 30 minutes at either the underground level or the Arena floor.
The tour then moves on to the Arch of Constantine for 10 minutes, the Roman Forum for 40 minutes, and finally the Palatine Hill for 30 minutes.
This well-paced itinerary allows guests to fully enjoy the ancient wonders without feeling rushed.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
This tour offers a non-refundable and non-changeable booking policy.
Travelers must present a valid passport or ID document at the meeting point, and strict security checks are in place at the Colosseum and Roman Forum entrances.
Flying drones, knives, trolleys, big backpacks, and animals aren’t allowed, and glass/metal containers and sprays are also prohibited.
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions.
Key things to note about the booking and cancellation policy:
- The tour is non-refundable and non-changeable.
- Travelers must bring a valid passport or ID document.
- Strict security checks are enforced at the entrance sites.
- Certain items aren’t allowed, including drones, knives, and large bags.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Pompeii Day Trip From Rome With Mount Vesuvius or Positano Option
- Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel With St. Peters Basilica Access
- The Original Roman Crypts and Catacombs Tour With Transfers
- Tuscany Guided Day Trip From Rome With Lunch & Wine Tasting
- Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Small Group – 6 People Max
- Skip-the-Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peters | Small Group
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed on the tour, but visitors must follow certain restrictions. Flashes, tripods, and drones are prohibited to avoid disturbing the experience and protecting the historic sites.
Can I Bring Snacks or Drinks With Me?
No, bringing snacks or drinks is not allowed. Strict security checks at the Colosseum and Forum mean you can’t bring glass/metal containers, sprays, or other prohibited items. Stick to water or small snacks you can easily finish before entering.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. No formal attire is required, but revealing or excessively casual outfits may not be allowed due to the historic nature of the site.
Do I Need to Know Italian to Understand the Guide?
No, you don’t need to know Italian to understand the guide. The tour provides live expert guides who offer commentary through sterilized earphones, ensuring you can fully engage with the experience regardless of your language proficiency.
Can I Extend My Visit Beyond the Tour Duration?
You can’t extend your visit beyond the tour duration. The guided tour has a fixed itinerary and timeline. Once the tour ends, you’ll need to exit the sites as per the rules. However, you’re free to explore the areas on your own after the tour.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Vatican and Sistine Chapel Semi Private Tour
- Authentic Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class
- Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Food and Wine Tour
- The Original Fettuccine Alfredo Experiences in Roma
- Fountains and Fallen Angels
- To & From Ciampino Airport – Rome City Center Shuttle Bus
- Urban Rafting on Romes Tiber River
- Ancient Tour of Rome by Mini Cooper Classic Cabrio With Aperitif
- Global: Esim High-Speed Mobile Data Plan
- Private Day Trip From Rome to the Amalfi Coast
- Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Fully Guided Tour
- Private Golf Cart Tour in Rome
- Skip-The-Line Colosseum Tour With Palatine Hill and Roman Forum
- Transfer Civitavecchia Port
- Drinks, Bites & Views of Rome by Night Private Tour
Final Words
This exclusive guided tour offers unparalleled access to the Colosseum’s underground tunnels, the iconic arena floor, and the captivating Roman Forum.
With an expert guide’s insightful commentary, visitors can explore the rich history and architectural wonders of these renowned landmarks.
Prepare for a comprehensive experience navigating security checks and accessibility considerations for an unforgettable journey through ancient Rome’s iconic sites.
