Book Colosseum Private Tours | Small-Group Entry, Guided Access

What’s special about a Colosseum private tour?

The Colosseum is probably the last place you might expect to absorb ancient Roman history in peace and quiet — but booking a private tour can make this possible for you. In a cozy group of 10 members or less, deep dive into the Colosseum’s 2000-year old past. What’s more, you’ll be led by a guide who’s an archaeologist and a key expert in their field. 

What’s covered in a Colosseum private tour?

Check out some top highlights of what you will be able to see on your tour. Along every step of the way, your guide will keep you informed, engaged and entertained.

✅Colosseum levels 1 and 2: Your guide will take you to the first and second floors of the Colosseum, where you can see the seating arrangements made for the elite and working classes of ancient Roman society. On level 2, you’ll walk through the open Colosseum museum, where you can read information boards and see artifacts including graffiti, animal remnants, etc.

✅The Roman Forum: The erstwhile marketplace and social epicentre of Rome, the Roman Forum contains ruins of buildings that served public and administrative functions. You can expect to see what government offices looked like in the past and how executive functions were dispensed.
✅Palatine Hill: Situated at an elevation and a key member of the Seven Hills of Rome, Palatine Hill was the chosen favorite of Roman aristocrats, nobles and emperors. Wander through the remains of expansive palaces, a stadium, a museum and enjoy spectacular vantage views of the Tiber river and Rome itself.

Step-by-step guide to booking Colosseum private tours

Did you know? While purchasing tickets, you can either book out the entire tour so all 10 members comprise of just you and your folks — or you can book exactly according to the number of people you’re sharing the experience with. 

Tips to make the most of your Colosseum private tour

• The Colosseum is one of the busiest attractions in Rome, at any time of the year. Booking an early morning or late afternoon private tour will not only give you a more serene experience but also allow you to enjoy the golden hour lighting for photos.

• With a private guide, you can personalize your experience. Maybe you're a history buff, an architecture lover, or someone just looking for fun facts. Let your guide know your preferences, so they can tailor the tour to your interests.

• Whether you're a photographer or enjoy sketching, bring your creative tools along. Private tours often allow for more flexibility and time to pause, so take the opportunity to capture the architecture or views from various angles.

• After the tour, take some time to relax nearby and soak in the atmosphere with a small picnic. Your tour is roughly 3 hours long, so you’re sure to get hungry after!

Frequently asked questions about Colosseum private tours

How is a private tour different from other types of guided tours?
A private tour differs from regular group tours by offering flexibility and a more personalized experience. You won’t be rushed through the tour or constrained by a group schedule. The guide tailors the tour to your interests, whether you want to focus on architecture, gladiatorial history, or the Roman Empire. You also benefit from exclusive access to certain parts of the Colosseum, such as the arena floor or underground, which are not always available on regular tours.

What are the advantages of a private Colosseum tour?
One of the biggest advantages of a private tour is the ability to skip the long lines, saving you precious time. The tour is designed to be more intimate, with fewer crowds, allowing you to appreciate the history and architecture without distractions. In a group of just 10 members or less, you’re also more likely to be in a like-minded cohort. Since your guide is also an archaeologist, they are better placed to give you more insight into the foundational features and changes the monument has sustained over time. 

Can I customize my private tour?
Yes, if you book out the entire private tour. One of the key benefits of a private tour is its flexibility. You can work with the guide to focus on the parts of the Colosseum and surrounding areas, like the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, that most interest you. If there are certain aspects of Roman history you’d like to explore in more detail, the guide can adjust the tour to match your preferences​. However, this might not entirely be possible if the tour is also booked by other guests, although you’re still free to request the guide to accommodate a preference. 

Are there any areas of the Colosseum that I cannot access through a private tour?
Visiting the Underground and Arena floors are not included in a Colosseum private tour. Access to levels 3-5 are also not part of this tour.

How should I prepare for a private tour of the Colosseum?
Although you’ll be accompanied by an expert guide, it’s always helpful to do some background research on your own, so you are better placed to have a more insightful interaction with your guide. Additionally, wear comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be on your feet exploring both indoor and outdoor areas. Bring a hat and sunscreen if visiting during the summer, as parts of the Colosseum are exposed to the sun, and the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill also offer little cover. Don’t forget to bring a valid ID, especially if your tickets were booked online.