Official Colosseum Tickets: Types and Where to Buy in Rome

The Colosseum Archaeological Park is one of the most extraordinary heritage sites in the world, a place where thousands of years of history are layered within walking distance. The Park encompasses not just the Colosseum, but also the vast archaeological areas of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Together, these three spaces offer a complete picture of life in ancient Rome: from the grandeur of imperial architecture and the spectacle of gladiatorial games to the everyday workings of Roman politics, religion, and society. Visitors can walk through temples, basilicas, triumphal arches, palaces, and sacred sites, all framed by the legendary beauty of Rome’s skyline.

If you’d prefer to explore the Colosseum with a licensed guide and skip the lines entirely, check out our Skip the Line Colosseum Tours for a more in-depth and hassle-free experience.

Why You Should Book in Advance Your Ticket

The Colosseum is one of the most visited monuments in the world, attracting millions of travelers each year. For this reason, booking your tickets in advance is absolutely essential, especially if you’re interested in tickets with access to special areas such as the arena floor or underground levels. These restricted zones are limited to a smaller number of visitors and often sell out days or even weeks ahead. By purchasing early, you not only secure your spot but also avoid inflated prices from resellers and long queues at the entrance.

24h – COLOSSEUM, ROMAN FORUM, PALATINE

This is the most basic and popular ticket, perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience the heart of ancient Rome. With this ticket, you can access the Colosseum (standard first and second levels), Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. It is valid for 24 hours from the first use, and it allows visitors to explore the center of Roman political, religious, and public life at their own pace. It includes a timed entrance to the Colosseum, but you can visit the Forum and Palatine before or after that slot within the time frame.

24h – ONLY ARENA

This ticket includes everything offered in the standard 24h ticket but with one major upgrade: access to the Colosseum arena floor. Visitors can walk through the Gate of Death, just like the gladiators once did, and step onto the reconstructed arena. Standing there offers a truly unique perspective, with a view of both the underground levels and the seating area where up to 50,000 spectators once roared. It’s the perfect option for those who want something more immersive than the basic tour, but without spending a full two days.

FORUM PASS SUPER

The Forum Pass Super is ideal for returning visitors or anyone with a passion for Roman archaeology. It does not include access to the Colosseum, but it offers a deep dive into the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, along with exclusive entry to a selection of super sites — areas that are not accessible with the standard ticket. These include the House of Augustus, the House of Livia, Santa Maria Antiqua, the Senate from the inside, the Domus Tiberiana and the Palatine Museums. It’s a fantastic way to explore the layers of imperial, political, and religious history that shaped the Roman world.

FULL EXPERIENCE TICKET – UNDERGROUND LEVELS AND ARENA

This is the most complete and sought-after ticket. It includes all the areas covered by the standard ticket, plus exclusive access to the Colosseum’s underground levels, where gladiators and wild animals prepared before entering the arena. You'll also walk onto the arena floor, creating a dramatic and unforgettable experience. The ticket is valid for two consecutive days, which gives you ample time to explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for visitors who want an in-depth understanding of the monument and the broader archaeological park.

FULL EXPERIENCE TICKET WITH ENTRY TO THE ARENA

This version of the Full Experience ticket gives access to all standard areas of the Colosseum Archaeological Park, including the arena floor, but it does not include the underground section. It’s a good alternative if underground access is sold out, or if you’re more interested in walking the arena than exploring the inner workings of the amphitheater. Like the full underground version, this ticket is valid for two days and includes access to the super sites of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

FULL EXPERIENCE TICKET WITH ENTRY TO THE ATTIC OF THE COLOSSEUM

This very special ticket is for those who want to see the Colosseum from an extraordinary perspective. In addition to standard access and the Roman Forum/Palatine areas, it includes a guided tour to the fifth and highest level of the Colosseum, known as the attic. From here, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the interior of the amphitheater and beyond — a rare and breathtaking experience. The attic was once reserved for Rome’s lower classes and now offers a unique viewpoint rarely seen by the public. This ticket also includes access to the arena floor, making it a premium and highly exclusive choice.

Where to Get Your Tickets

All the tickets mentioned above can be purchased directly from the official website of the Colosseum Archaeological Park. The Colosseum Archaeological Park also maintains two official ticket offices near the site. The first is in Piazza del Colosseo (near the Temple of Venus and Rome on the south side of the Colosseum). The second is located at Largo della Salara Vecchia (the entrance to the Imperial Forums on Via dei Fori Imperiali). Both offices sell individual admission tickets for single visitors. Buying your ticket through the official source guarantees that you are paying the correct price, reserving a legitimate time slot, and avoiding any third-party commission fees. It’s also where you’ll find real-time availability, detailed descriptions, and the most up-to-date ticket options and regulations. For the best experience, we strongly recommend purchasing your tickets at least several days in advance, especially during the high season (spring through early autumn).