tour colosseum at night

Rome Colosseum

The Best Colosseum Night Tour 2024

Colosseum at night | arena floor access | priority entry, about the colosseum night tour.

Explore the Colosseum at night without any crowds by going on this majestic tour, which includes skip-the-line access and an expert tour guide. Experience the mystical atmosphere of the Colosseum in the dark as you walk across the Arena floor. Trust us, this tour is a must-do!

DESCRIPTION

Colosseum night tour.

Experience the beauty of the Colosseum under the night sky, away from the crowds, with this remarkable evening tour. Start your journey by meeting an expert tour guide who will lead you through exclusive sections and vantage points of the Colosseum that aren't usually open to the general public. Bypass the lengthy lines at the entrance and dive straight into your adventure!

The tour also includes walking across the reconstructed Arena floor. Here, visitors can stand where Roman gladiators once fought, feeling the history beneath their feet. This spectacular night tour will allow you to explore the wonders of the Colosseum in a serene setting, away from the usual crowds, making it a more intimate and memorable experience!

• Guided visit to the Colosseum
• Skip-the-line entry
• Expert guide
• Access to Arena floor
• Roman Forum and Imperial Forum visit (view from outside)
• Comfortable audio system to hear the tour guide better
• Underground access
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill ticket
• Wheelchair users

Meeting point

The tour meeting point is at the address Via della Polveriera 8, about 100 meters from the Colosseum at the Crown Tours office.

YOUR SEARCH IS OVER! WE HAVE ALREADY FOUND THE BEST-VALUE COLOSSEUM NIGHT TOUR!

All you have to do is secure your spot by booking it right away!

Discover ancient history under the moonlight, adding a mystical touch to your exploration. Feel the past come alive in the silent, darkened amphitheater.

Walk across the reconstructed Colosseum arena floor, a privilege not afforded during the day. Stand where historic battles and spectacles once took place.

Enjoy exclusive access to the Colosseum and experience the serenity and majesty of this ancient arena in peace, far away from the crowds.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of the Colosseum at night. Feel the historical significance of the site in a way that can't be replicated during the day.

FAQ – Colosseum Night Tour

Are there any restrictions for the tour, is the tour suitable for families, what makes the colosseum night tour different from day tours, can i see other nearby attractions, act fast tour spots are filling quickly – reserve yours now, easy booking process & best deal online, good to know before you go.

• The tour allows you to experience the Colosseum at night, avoiding daytime crowds.
• The tour lasts 2 hours and includes skip-the-line access.
• The cancellation policy states that the activity can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended.
• All travelers need to show an ID or passport at the entrance.

The Ultimate Colosseum Night Experience!

I saw the Colosseum in the past, and I have always marveled at Roman architecture and ingenuity. Because of this, I wanted to experience a different twist, so I opted for the night tour of the Colosseum. This tour made our visit to Rome truly unforgettable! It was very nice to see this landmark in a different light. Highly recommended!

This tour is definitely worth your time & money!

What a great company to host our guided tour of the Colosseum! Our guide, Lucia, was more knowledgeable than the guidebooks. My wife and I really enjoyed the entire tour. We were speechless when we entered the Colosseum and saw how amazing it looked at night! Definitely worth your time & money!

Why wait & miss your spot? Book your Colosseum Night Tour now!

Make your visit to Rome unforgettable by seeing the Colosseum during the night!

• Easy booking process
• Skip the line access
• Arena Floor access
• Live tour guide
• Best value for your money!

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Colosseum Night Tour

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• Ancient Rome
• Duration : 2.5 hours

About Colosseum Night Tour

With breathtaking views, smaller crowds and VIP access, a night tour is the best and most exclusive way to enjoy a visit to Rome's famous Colosseum . When you visit the Colosseum at night, you experience it in a unique way. The Colosseum seems even more imposing with the starry night sky as a backdrop.

After the crowds have gone home and night has fallen in Rome, the ancient city is lit up like a jewel and an exclusive few are allowed to visit the Colosseum at night. By joining this Colosseum evening tour, an expert guide will lead the way and enhance your experience with fascinating tales from ancient Roman history. You will get to imagine the gladiators battling on the Colosseum arena floor in front of thousands of spectators.

Depending on the type of tour you choose, you can experience just the Colosseum at night or you can opt for a walk down the impressive Via Fori Imperiali. Flanked on either side with ancient markets and dramatic architecture, your guide will describe the importance of these forums while you admire the solitary columns and grand basilicas. One of the best views in Rome can be seen during an evening walk past the Roman Forum. There are a few lonely columns that are dramatically lit in a valley flooded with the remnants of ancient Rome.

Entering the Colosseum at night is already one of the most sought after experiences in Rome, so when the evening tour of the Colosseum includes special exhibitions the experience is all the more magical. The Colosseum is known for its accurate and detailed exhibitions and productions. At different times throughout the year the Colosseum night visit may also include video projections on the arena floor or perhaps the next big project that archaeologists have dreamt up. These opportunities are truly once-in-a-lifetime!

Colosseum Night Tour Highlights

• The Colosseum at Night is one of Rome’s most beautiful sights. Entering the monument at night is even more special.
• Experiencing the Colosseum when it is less crowded allows you more time and freedom to explore. Learning the history from a local expert makes you appreciate the Colosseum that much more.
• On these special Night Tours in the Colosseum, you’ll get the most dramatic experience and thrill of entering the moonlit ancient amphitheater.
• This after hours tour has limited spots and only a select few are allowed once the sun has gone down.
• Walking through the Colosseum at night and imagining what it must have been like to be in Ancient Rome and have the freedom to walk through the amphitheater whenever you wanted.
• Experience the beauty of ancient Rome as you walk down the Via Fori Imperiali and admire the dramatically lit ancient ruins (depending on the itinerary you book).
• Walking with your guide past Trajan’s column as well as the Trajan Market as you prepare to enter the Colosseum.
• Hear stories of Rome’s legendary characters from a local tour guide that is an expert in the field.
• Walk the Colosseum’s eerily-lit and looming corridors as your guide leads you towards its inner arena.
• The Colosseum at night is so much more serene and less crowded than during the day when thousands of tourists are trying to enter.
• Seeing the monument in the distance and walking past the beautifully spooky Roman Forum on the way to your Colosseum Night Tour.
• After the Colosseum evening tour has finished, sitting the piazza and thinking about its incredible history while basking in the glow of the monument.
• Access to the Colosseum Arena Floor and/or Colosseum Underground may be included, this depends entirely on the Colosseum administration’s decision on what to include in the ticket (it is not up to the tour providers).

Visitor Highlights

• Meet your guide and get to know your small group as you anxiously await the moment when you can enter the Colosseum under the moonlight . When you visit the Colosseum at night with such exclusive tickets, it makes the whole group come together in a special way.
• The Colosseum’s facade is especially impactful at night and your guide will point out the detail in the columns as well as the holes in the facade. The golden lights cause it to glow like a jewel, especially with the night sky as a backdrop.
• Explore the eerie corridors as your guide tells tales of gladiator battles and take a moment to think about the amount of men and women that lost their lives in the Colosseum.
• When the Colosseum Evening tour begins, you will be standing at the base of the monument and inspecting the facade as your guide recounts the history of the ancient city. The moment when you get to enter the building is absolutely magical.
• Walk the Via Fori Imperiali and admire the breathtaking views into the empty Roman Forum . There are ancient marble remnants strewn about the grassy field with a few standing columns.
• Access to the arena floor and/or underground may be included during the visit. The areas of access are determined by the Colosseum staff and apply to every type of Colosseum night ticket.
• Getting a photo of yourself while standing on the arena floor is always an amazing opportunity and it is even more special during the Colosseum Evening Tour. It will be a memory that lasts a lifetime.
• Taking the opportunity to visit the Colosseum at night is one of the most unique and rewarding experiences in Rome. Not only to visit the famous monument, but to do it with fewer crowds and in a beautiful setting.

Travel Tips

• Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time, this will ensure you have enough time to find your Colosseum Night Tour meeting point.
• While there are a few on-site toilets at the Colosseum, the waiting time can take a while. So be prepared!
• You won’t find any luggage facilities, restaurants or cafes on-site.
• All of the entrances to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill have a mandatory security check. This check cannot be avoided and is necessary for the safety of all visitors.
• Only small bags are allowed inside the Colosseum. No luggage or bags with wheels are allowed.
• Do not bring weapons, aerosol sprays or glass containers.
• The people with reduced mobility can easily access the Colosseum as paths at all the available routes are marked. Some tours may not be wheelchair accessible, so be sure to check the tour details or opt for a private tour.
• It is highly recommended to get your tickets ahead of time online and because tours for the Colosseum at night sell out fast.
• The Colosseum tour prices vary and can cost anywhere from 30€ up to 100€, or more. The type of tour you choose will be reflected in the price and duration of the tour.

Know Before you Go

Covid Safety Measures:

All the areas that customers come in contact with are frequently cleaned

In order to reduce crowds, the number of visitors is limited 

Customers are required to bring and wear face masks

There is a mandatory temperature check for customers 

Social distancing standards must be maintained inside the monument

Special Colosseum Night Tickets:

The Colosseum night ticket does not include entrance to the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill (these areas remain closed at night).

It is up to the Colosseum administration to determine what areas are accessible during the Colosseum night visit. It is not guaranteed that either the arena or the underground will be accessible to visitors at night.

What to bring:

Weather-appropriate clothing

Comfortable shoes

Passport or ID card

Things that are not allowed:

Any kind of weapons or sharp objects are not allowed.

Luggage or large bags, even smaller bags with wheels, are not allowed.

Getting There

• Metro: The Colosseum metro stop is located on the B line of Rome’s metro. Check the map at your local station.
• Regional Train - Take the underground line B from the Termini Station and get off at the Colosseum stop.
• Bus - There are many public buses that stop in front of the Amphitheatre on your Colosseum tour: 75, 81, 85, 87, 117, 118.
• Car: There are paid parking spots available in the neighbourhoods surrounding the Colosseum.
• Tram: Tram #3 passes the Colosseum
• Bicycle: The Colosseum is accessible by bike, just make sure to lock your bike in an appropriate place. Bikes that are locked to the railings in archaeological areas could be taken by the police.

Note: The Imperial Forum Road is closed to car and bus traffic on Sundays, which means it’s the perfect time to go for rental bikes or take a nice walk along via Fori Imperiali towards the Colosseum. Some bus routes are deviated on Sundays, so be sure to allow extra time to arrive.

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VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground & Arena Floor

• Tour the Colosseum at night, complete with VIP access to special areas usually closed to the public.
• Visit the Colosseum underground, step onto the arena floor, and admire the silence of general access areas in the peaceful evening atmosphere.
• Explore in the company of an insightful guide and a maximum of 24 guests, allowing you to have an even more intimate experience at this spectacular stadium.

Preview the experience

Tour description, tour the colosseum at night after the gates have officially closed for the day..

A Colosseum night tour is one of the most exclusive and enjoyable ways to visit Rome's most famous ruin. The crowds are smaller, the views are better, and the experience is much more intimate. You'll experience the arena in all its glory as you explore the nearly empty arena with your expert guide telling hair-raising tales of its bloody past. Your experience won't just be more intimate, it will be much more comfortable now that the sun has gone down.

You'll start your Colosseum night tour in the historic Jewish Quarter. Take a look at the Teatro di Marcello—an ancient amphitheater that looks like a miniature Colosseum—before making your way towards the main event. Along the way, you'll pass by Piazza Venezia, seeing the monument that represents new Rome and new Italy—and by far one of the most beautiful buildings in Rome to be seen at night. Once you arrive at a scenic vantage point overlooking the Roman Forum, your guide will tell you tales from the empire, whose reach you won't believe.

Trace the story of gladiators underneath the Colosseum and out on the arena floor.

Just as the last of the daytime crowds empty out, you'll step into the magnificent Colosseum itself. You'll head up into the stands first for an introductory stroll around Rome's most iconic monument, hearing stories of its origin and initial purpose. Without the hustle and bustle of the daytime crowds, you'll experience the Colosseum at its most serene, and get a sense of what the atmosphere was like nearly 2,000 years ago—an experience few visitors can claim to have had.

The next stop on the Colosseum night tour is a true VIP experience. You'll head down into the underground area below the Colosseum, where animals and gladiators awaited their turn to fight. The underground may only be visited on pre-booked tours with a limited number of participants, so this is a rare opportunity! Combined with the later entrance time, this makes our Colosseum night tour the most exclusive Colosseum visit available—as well as the most enjoyable.

Finally, you’ll experience your own "Gladiator" moment on the arena floor. Make your way there alongside an official Colosseum guard who will unlock a special gate, swinging it open to reveal that iconic walkway onto the floor. Walk in the footsteps of gladiators as you step out on to the arena floor and scream “Are you not entertained?” into the empty amphitheater (if you so please). This is the most incredible vantage point in the Colosseum, so take your time to soak it up.

Journey through Ancient Rome in a small group of 24 people or fewer.

Seeing the Colosseum in general may be an opportunity that only comes once in a lifetime—and having it all to yourself at night definitely is! Perfect for families, for those who don't like the heat of day, and for visitors who want a different experience, our VIP Colosseum Night Tour is one of our most atmospheric experiences. High demand and limited availability often mean that this tour sells out months in advance, so book now to secure your place! Trust us when we say that this is an experience you'll cherish for decades to come.

Please note: Due to high demand and restricted access, the entrance time at the Colosseum may be granted between 7:15pm and 10:30pm the day of your tour. We will confirm the start time of your tour about 30 days prior to the tour date.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, sep 24, 2023.

Last year I was in Rome and did a Coliseum tour in the day . . . I didn’t want to go again after that experience but my family wanted to. I am so glad I did! The night tour was a completely different experience and 100% worth it! Going at night without the intense crowds and not in the heat of the day made it so much easier to immerse yourself into the experience and enjoy the information received. You could actually start to think of what it was like so long ago. Book this tour well in advance, you won’t be sorry!

Sep 16, 2023

Thoroughly enjoyed the night. Really nice to get out of the hot summer sun & NO crowds. Amazing experience. Would highly recommend

Sep 01, 2023

Christina was wonderful, and very knowledgeable and passionate about Roma and it showed throughout the tour. Highly recommend this tour!

Jun 25, 2023

Great experience highly recommended

We had the unique opportunity to do the Nighttime Underground Tour of the Colosseum and it was a magical memory! The details in how our guide was able to bring to life the way that the exhibitions were constructed was incredible. We fully support this tour! (4 adults & 2 kids 6yo & 10yo)

Know before you book

Similar tours, gladiator’s gate: special access colosseum tour with arena floor, vip caesar's palace tour with colosseum and roman forum, vip colosseum underground tour with roman forum & palatine hill.

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• Colosseum By Night

Colosseum by Night - An amazing way to see Rome's most iconic monument!

By Elyssa Bernard

January 20, 2024

Want to visit the Colosseum by night?

This is one of my favorite ways to visit Rome's most iconic monument.

It's an exclusive visit and brings the structure's history to life like no other visit can.

Find out everything you need to know about seeing the Rome Colosseum at night, from what you will see to how to book.

Colosseum night visits will resume spring 2024!!

Check back for more details.

Visiting the Colosseum By Night - Everything You Need to Know

If you want to visit the Colosseum at night, you need to know:

• What will you see?
• Is the night entry to the Colosseum included in the Roma Pass ?
• How much does it cost ? Are there any reductions?
• Is it the same as the day ticket, including the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill ? 
• Is it better to see the Colosseum at night or during the day ?
• When is the Colosseum open at night ? Can you visit it on the Free Sunday?
• Do you have to take a tour ? How long does it last?
• How do you book a tour of the Colosseum by night ?

Colosseum by night -  What will you see?

No time to read the whole thing?

I highly recommend visiting the Colosseum at night!

Just know this ticket does not come with entrance to the Roman Forum / Palatine Hill .

Click here to book my favorite tour !

Rated 5 stars!

Visiting the Colosseum at night is really special, not only because of how beautiful it is from the outside (which you can of course see regardless.)

When you first go in, you will see and really appreciate the architecture of the corridors , because they are totally empty!

Then, as you go around on the main level of the Colosseum, your first impression will be of the silence.

It's dark all around you and hardly anyone else is there, so you get to appreciate what you are looking at even more, because there is no sound, other than the guide, to distract you.

On a night visit to the Colosseum, you will visit the main and second levels of the Colosseum, which you can do also during the day.

But you will also get to go out onto the Colosseum arena floor . . .

 . . . and, you will visit the Hypogeum below .

This is another thing that makes this visit so special, as these areas are not accessible with a regular daytime entry ticket, and booking a visit of them (along with the third ring above), can be hard to come by as there is limited number of tickets to those areas.

You will NOT see the 3rd or 4th/5th rings on the Colosseum night tour.

They are simply off limits at that time (and at this time, they are closed in any case.)

Is the Colosseum night tour included in the Roma Pass?

The Roma Pass allows you free (or discounted) entry to the Colosseum / Roman Forum / Palatine Hill , but only during regular daytime hours .

The Colosseum night tour is considered a special event, and is not offered at any discount or with the Roma Pass or any other Combo pass .

How much does it cost to visit the Colosseum by night? Any reductions?

The full-fare ticket to visit the Colosseum by night, which includes a tour in English (or Spanish or Italian), is 25€.

There is no additional booking fee so that is the final price per person.

For anyone under 25, the reduced fee is 20€.

For ages 3-6, it's free, but you still need a ticket (it's a free ticket but you have to reserve as it's consider a "spot" on the tour.)

Reminder: A ll Colosseum tickets will be nominative. This means that your ticket will have your name on it, and you’ll have to show ID to prove you are the person whose name is on the ticket.

Is it the same as the day ticket, including the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill? 

No, it's not the same.

A normal day-time visit to the Colosseum costs 16€ if purchased on site, or a bit more if you pre-purchase .

And it includes a visit to the Roman Forum / Palatine Hill area over a 24-hour period.

Any other kind of visit to the Colosseum, such as underground , to upper tiers, and, the subject of this page, visiting the Colosseum by night, is considered a special event .

(It's also why they are not always available.)

Colosseum night tickets must be purchased in advance , and always include a tour with someone from the staff of CoopCulture.

You cannot wander in on your own, and you cannot just walk up and purchase a ticket .

For all these special events, there is a limited number of spaces available, and as they are popular, they tend to sell out fast so you really have to book in advance , sometimes long in advance.

Is it better to see the Colosseum at night or during the day?

These are two really different visits, and different ways to see the Colosseum.

Visiting the Colosseum by day - pros and cons

Here are the pros of visiting the Colosseum by day :

• You can visit on your own, without a guide (although I personally think it's ideal to visit the Colosseum with a tour guide so you get the history and all the  fun Colosseum facts !) 
• You have a large choice of times to go during the day's opening hours and can spend as much time as you like inside.
• Going by day means you also have included in the ticket, a visit to the Roman Forum / Palatine Hill (it's two parks but considered one because you can walk between them.) 
• And you have 2 consecutive days to do it (although there is no re-entry, so each site can be visited once in that 48-hour period.) That is a lot of flexibility, and a lot to see.

Here are the cons of visiting the Colosseum by day :

• The crowds and noise level are pretty distracting.
• In a normal daytime visit, you cannot visit the arena floor or the underground unless you book a Full Experience ticket or tour.
• Did I mention the crowds?

Visiting the Colosseum by night - pros and cons

Here are the pros of visiting the Colosseum by night :

• It's absolutely stunning to see this monument, inside and out, lit up this way.
• You will have the Colosseum almost entirely to yourselves (there may be just a couple of other tour groups in there and they stagger the visits, so you mostly feel like your group is the only in there.)
• You get to go out onto the arena floor , and again, as you are nearly alone, this is a unique and special experience. I could not stop looking around me with my mouth gaping open.
• You get to visit the Hypogeum (underground) , and as you are in the dark (but with lights of course), it's even more realistic, since that is how the gladiators saw it back then. Just dark.
• You will have a lot of time to just take in what you are looking at, PLUS take photos and videos . You will really get the full immersion without the distraction of hordes of people and lots of noise.

Here are the cons of visiting the Colosseum by night :

• It costs more than visiting during the day.
• You can ONLY see the Colosseum , but not the Roman Forum or Palatine Hill .
• It sells out long in advance so can be hard to book.

All about the Rome Colosseum

So which one should you do?

If you have never been to Rome before, you may want to do the daytime visit so you can also see the Roman Forum / Palatine Hill .

And take a tour of that so you get all the history and info.

And, if you've been to the Colosseum before, or if you have time on your trip to Rome, add a night visit.

You will never look at the Colosseum the same way again.

When is the Colosseum open at night?

When they started offering Colosseum night visits, it was only available during spring / summer / fall .

As of this writing in late 2023, visits seem to begin in early spring and go through the New Year Holidays .

As the season slows down and it gets colder, there are fewer of them.

In winter months, you can often only go on the weekends, but this seems to differ from one year to the next, and I think they adjust it according to whatever the current supply/demand is.

Also note it is NOT available on the Free Sunday or other free dates (on the first Sunday of each month, and some other dates during the year , like November 4 and April 21 , many sites and museums are free for everyone, and there are no special visits that day.)

As for what time they go, they start having visits about an hour after the regular closing time, and stagger the entry times.

So for example, in July, when the Colosseum closes at 7pm, they start visits sometime after 8pm, but you might get an entry time of say, 9:40pm.

This way it's always in the dark , and as they stagger the entry times, you will not spend much time together with any other tour groups.

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

Do you have to take a tour?  How long does it last?

Yes, to visit the Colosseum by night, you must take a tour .

And the tour has to be with someone from CoopCulture, the organization that manages the Colosseum and its ticket sales.

When you book a tour with an outside company, you will still get the guide you booked, who works for that company.

But when you enter for the Colosseum night tour , someone from CoopCulture just comes along, in part to make sure you keep to your time-table.

But rest assured, you will have the tour guide you booked.

A Colosseum night tour booked through CoopCulture lasts just over an hour.

A tour with an outside company will likely last longer, as they usually try to cover some more ground and information, to make it a more complete tour.

For example, your guide might set a meeting point at Piazza Venezia, and then give you a tour of that piazza and the via dei Fori Imperiali on your way to the Colosseum.

The length will depend on the tour company but usually it will be around 2 - 2.5 hours.

How do you book a Colosseum night tour?

There are two ways to book a tour of the Colosseum by night, through CoopCulture , or through a private tour company .

If you book through CoopCulture, it will cost less, but if you want a more complete tour, or, if you find CoopCulture tickets sold out, you may want to try booking a tour with an outside company.

Book a tour of the Colosseum by night through CoopCulture

CoopCulture is the entity that runs the ticketing for the Colosseum (and other sites in Rome and throughout Italy.) 

You can book your Colosseum night tour directly through Coopculture, online.

The 25€ ticket you buy for the Colosseum night visit through CoopCulture is a ticket for entry and includes the guide in the language you choose.

Ready to plan your trip?

Book a tour of the Colosseum by night with a tour company

If you want a more complete tour, that includes other parts of Ancient Rome by night, you may want to consider booking a Colosseum night tour through a tour agency .

On a recent tour, w e began at the Vittoriano monument (the "wedding cake"), and walked from there to Campidoglio for some night Roman Forum views. 

Take Walks is another trusted partner - book your tour here.

While we walked along the via dei Fori Imperiali, all lit up, we were treated to a fun and entertaining history lesson about Ancient Rome and some colorful emperors.

Once we arrived at the Colosseum, our guide handled everything and in we went (you do have to pass through security so I remind you, no selfie sticks or tripods allowed .)

We had the place nearly to ourselves.

A guide from the Colosseum joined our group, but mostly served to keep us on track time-wise.

Our guide was the one who guided us the whole time, and it was fantastic.

You may also wish to book a Colosseum night tour on GetYourGuide   because it's hard to book and because space is so limited.

When you go on a tour booking site like these, you can enter your date(s) and see WHO has a tour available then.

Yes, booking a tour with an agency is more expensive than with CoopCulture.

But you will have a more complete tour this way.

And, if the tickets through CoopCulture are sold out, you may find that by booking a tour, you can find space available.

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Colosseum Under the Moon Night Tour

Tour overview.

An incredible opportunity awaits you after dark in Ancient Rome! See the world’s most iconic monument to antiquity with one of our top-rated guides to lead the way on our Colosseum night tour. Skip lines and avoid daytime crowds altogether with an after-hours tour so you can revel in the depth of this unparalleled experience, which includes access to the Arena Floor and Colosseum Underground while the entire Colosseum is closed to the general public.

Tour Highlights

• Arena Floor
• Colosseum Underground
• Via dei Fori Imperiali
• Roman Forum Views
• Capitoline Hill
• Altare Della Patria
• Piazza Venezia

What's included

• Skip-the-line access to all sites
• Expert English-speaking tour guide
• Small group
• All tickets and reservations
• Headsets to hear the guide clearly

The Colosseum at Night Under a New Light

Indulge yourself in a moonlit exploration of the Roman Forum and Colosseum on our Colosseum night tour. With evening hours recently expanded, we can now offer our guests a more exclusive and intimate visit to the world’s most iconic amphitheater. While the lack of crowds and lines provide clear advantages, going “behind the scenes” into the restricted access Colosseum Underground and setting foot on the coveted Arena Floor certainly bump this Colosseum tour up an extra notch – making it a truly unmissable evening adventure. Though the gates to the Roman Forum actually close before sundown, we propose an even better way to examine the ruins from above. Perch up near Piazza del Campidoglio and take in the most stunning view of The Eternal City while your guide imparts some historical wisdom upon your ears. Our passionate Rome experts have undying enthusiasm for Rome’s past, as well as a knack for storytelling, which makes poring over a 2,000-year-long history, seem like a piece of cake, and your curiosity will lead you to want to ask more.

Explore the Forum from Capitoline Hill

Meet up with one of our top-rated Roman experts in Piazza Venezia, where the modern and ancient worlds of Rome meet in the footsteps of the Victor Emanuel monument. This grand and imposing structure illuminates the square at the end of Rome’s main street, Via del Corso, to the very center of ancient Roman life. Stroll along the cobblestones of the empire and prepare to be amazed as we lead you off the beaten path to tucked-away corners and breathtaking views. With a bird’s eye view over the Roman Forum, you’ll learn about the birth of the city itself while temples, triumphal arches, and basilicas glisten in the moonlight below. Michelangelo fans will be especially pleased to tread through his famous Piazza del Campidoglio, crowned by the famous equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius. Our limited group sizes, along with the lack of noisy daytime traffic and crowds, provide each guest with the opportunity to have a truly immersive experience, during which the magic, history, and atmosphere of the Eternal City come to life again from the shadows.

The Colosseum at Night As Evocative as it Gets

While the Colosseum welcomes up to 30,000 visitors per day, the evening hours offer a much more delightful overall experience. You’ll get the imperial treatment as ropes are unhooked allowing you to enter restricted areas normally closed to the general public day and night. Delve deeper than most visitors go with a descent into the Colosseum Underground, or “hypogeum” in Latin, which encompasses the ancient subterranean tunnels that were once used as the backstage for grand Gladiatorial productions. Ponder the engineering skills and technological advances which made this arena the par excellence venue for extravagant events, such as the “panem et circenses” (“bread and circuses”) which were attended by more than 50,000 hungry entertainment-seekers at a time. But the grandest of all finales, we must admit, is a walk on the Arena Floor itself through the ancient Porta Libitinaria. Taking center stage in the footsteps of Roman gladiators and emperors under a starlit sky is, in a word, simply unforgettable.

What you’ll See Along the Way

Same Colosseum, new experience. There’s really nothing like exploring the ancient amphitheatre after dark. Made of travertine, tufo, and concrete, this colossal structure has been standing strong since 80 AD. The sheer mass of its size and depth of its history are nearly impossible to fathom, but the best way to contemplate them is by standing within its walls. Nighttime offers a more tranquil experience, with exclusive access to multiple layers of the arena, from the stage to the underground dungeons, and no crowds to push through.

Although millions of tourists make their way to the Colosseum each year, only select groups pass the metaphorical red tape and step foot onto the stage floor. The word arena comes from the Latin word “Harena” which means “sand”. This is because the wooden stage was always covered with a layer of dirt, which set the scene for elaborate entertainment displays, such as gladiator duals and reenactments of exotic hunts and war battles. Little remains of the original floor, but if standing on the very ground where ancient gladiators and beasts fought to their deaths doesn’t move you, perhaps nothing will.

The Colosseum underground is commonly referred to as the Hypogeum, from the Greek “hypo” meaning “under” and “gaia” meaning earth. Privileged access to the hypogeum allows visitors a chance to revel in the highly advanced technological ingenuity of Ancient Rome. This vast underground network once covered 6 acres with 2 subterranean levels. Amongst the dungeons, cells, passageways, trap doors, and pulley systems, the animals, slaves, and gladiators alike would await their grand entrance to the arena floor.

They say “all roads lead to Rome” but, in this case, it’s actually true. While Italian dictator Benito Mussolini inaugurated this broad street in the early 20th century, its edges are flanked by the 2,000 year old ruins of the Roman Forum and Imperial Forums. Running from Piazza Venezia to the Colosseum, there are frequent excavations around the area as much of ancient Rome has yet to be discovered. Nonetheless, this is the road to follow if you’re looking to discover the very heart of Rome.

Resting between the Palatine and Capitoline hills are 40 acres of sprawling Roman ruins in what was once considered to be the most celebrated meeting place in the world: The Roman Forum. From the neighboring hills, one can gaze upon the treasured remains of the Temple of Saturn, the Temple of the Vestal Virgins, and the Temple of Vespasian, as well as the seemingly indestructible victory arches of Septimius Severus and Titus. Amongst these relics, Romans held triumphal processions, elections, criminal trials and public speeches. Needless to say, history runs deep within the forum.

Capitoline Hill is the smallest of Rome’s hills, but it is undoubtedly the most important. In ancient times, it served as the geographical, political, and ceremonial center, with important buildings like the Temple of Jupiter and the tabularium (official records office) nestled securely on top. While the ancient ruins are almost completely covered by Medieval and Renaissance palaces, the political seat has not moved much in 2,000 years. Today, the mayor’s office sits on its peak, bordering Michelangelo’s impeccable Piazza del Campidoglio, not to mention the iconic equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius.

A more recent addition to the Roman landscape, this massive 1925 monument stands at a staggering 266 feet tall and boasts an enormous bronze sculpture of Victor Emanuel in its center. It’s white travertine façade and unique shape have earned it nicknames such as “The Wedding Cake” and “The Typewriter”. Posted between Piazza Venezia and the Roman Forum, this layered structure not only offers a compelling climb amongst stairways, columns, and sculptures, but also a spectacular 360 degree view of the city.

Throughout the centuries, the bordering palazzi of this square have housed popes, cardinals, and even famous French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. In the early 20th century, Benito Mussolini famously perched himself on the balcony of Palazzo Venezia to deliver his rousing speeches, including the declaration of War on Britain in 1940, to the gathered masses below. In much more recent history, 2009 to be exact, archaeologists discovered Hadrian’s 2,000 year old Athenaeum (school of literacy and science) beneath the Southeast edge of the piazza, which is still under excavation today.

Colosseum Under the Moon Tour

What our Customers say...

What a great tour!

A couple years ago our friends were fortunate enough to have Marcello as their guide so when travel took all of us back to Rome, of course we requested Marcello for our Colosseum night tour. Marcello gave us detailed historical information and was engaging and fun. He is very passionate about Rome's history and we certainly learned a lot. I would definitely recommend What a Life Tours. Thank you so much, Marcello, for a wonderful evening and day in Ro...

Colosseum at Night

Oh my! What a wonderful tour! I can’t say enough about our tour guide, Val! She is the absolute best! This tour also took us underground to see where the slaves, criminals and animals were kept before the “games.” This is after hours so it was an amazing feeling, having the Colosseum to ourselves. Val was full of knowledge and information about the history of the Colosseum. She has a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh. A word to the wise, when in Rome, use What a Life Tours and INSIST on Val as your guide!! ♥️♥️♥️”

A high recommendation!

I cannot recommend this enough!! For over an hour we were in a small group navigating this venue with no lines, a skilled guide-from the venue staff, and amazing photo opportunities. Trust me if you have to short list your tour options— do this one! It is much cooler at night time and you also see the forum and Venizia piazza—our favorite tour so far— thank you Val!!”

Best part of our trip to Rome!

Loved this Colosseum at Night tour. Our guide was super knowledgeable, and being able to experience the Colosseum at night was AMAZING. The Roman Forum afterwards was especially interesting. MUST DO if you have the time!”

Giuliano was by far the BEST tour guide we've ever had! It was the most entertaining tour we've been on.”

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7 Best Colosseum at Night Tours in Rome for a Unique Experience

Are you looking for the best Colosseum at night tours in Rome?

As someone who’s visited Rome more times than I can count on one hand, I promise you that it’s worth booking a tour to visit the Colosseum at night! 

Why take a Colosseum night tour in Rome? Being guided by a local expert means you can get so much more out of the experience. The difference is that you can interpret what you’re seeing, giving you a far deeper understanding than you’d get simply by seeing the structure up close. 

Plus, visiting this iconic landmark all lit up against the dark Italian sky is a completely different experience than visiting while the sun is out!

No time to read about all of the Colosseum night tours in Rome? The BEST option is VIP Colosseum Underground Night Tour . It has an impressive five star rating, exclusive access to the underground paths and chambers, and to the historic arena above ground. 

Also included with the night-time Colosseum tours outlined in this post is exclusive access to the underground area and arena. This means you gain a much deeper appreciation of what really went on here when the Colosseum was used by Roman gladiators. 

7 Best Colosseum at Night Tours to Take

These handpicked Colosseum in Rome night tours offer the best options for discovering this ancient site, along with other significant areas nearby.

1. Skip-the-Line VIP Colosseum Underground Night Tour

⭐ Rating: 5 / 5 | ⏰ Tour length: 1 hour & 15 minutes | 🎟 BOOK NOW

This VIP evening tour of the Colosseum allows you to explore both where animals were kept before combat and where they actually fought the gladiators in the Arena above.

Not only will you avoid the daytime crowds, but you also get fast skip-the-line entry with Colosseum at night tickets for this tour. 

Pricey but going at night and no cues made it for a special, intimate and more realistic experience. The native guide spoke excellent English and was well versed in the history and able to answer questions. – Daniel ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

During your visit you’ll also learn, from your guide, all about the history of the Colosseum’s construction. You’ll also find out about the social and historical context of the games that once took place here. 

While some of what you’ll learn on this and other Colosseum tours as night is similar to what you’d learn on daytime tours, the experience of visiting the historic site after dark is truly something else!

👉 Check Prices & Availability

2. Exclusive After-Dark Colosseum Explorer Tour

⭐ Rating: 4.5 / 5 | ⏰ Tour length: 1 hour to 90 minutes | 🎟 BOOK NOW

This Colosseum at night tour with the underground and arena floor will allow you to explore this iconic Roman landmark during the evening. The group size is capped at 15, and you’ll be led by an English-speaking guide. 

“Excellent tour guide. Paulo and Ali were outstanding. Very knowledgeable, and went beyond expectations to make our tour a personable and memorable experience.” – EDGAR F ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

A visit to Capitoline Hill, the most famous of Rome’s seven hills, is also included as part of the experience. The tour also allows you to access the arena floor and underground area, which aren’t usually open to visitors. 

3. Colosseum Dungeons, Roman Forum & Palatine Night Tour

⭐ Rating: 4.5 / 5 | ⏰ Tour length: 3 hours | 🎟 BOOK NOW

This night-time tour of the Colosseum also takes you to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Lasting for three hours, you can also follow in the footsteps of Roman gladiators by accessing the arena floor. This isn’t generally open to the public. 

“This tour was a highlight of our time in Rome. Matteo did a great job of touring our group that included children, around the Roman Forums area before leading us to the Colosseum where another excellent guide toured us throughout the inside and underground of the Colosseum. The guides were well prepared and excellent in their presentations. Highly recommended!” – Marlene ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Your tour includes the services of a friendly, knowledgeable guide, plus light refreshments. It commences with a walk along Via dei Fori Imperiali, so you can learn about the history of the surrounding area as well as the Colosseum itself. 

And, as someone who has previously visited the Roman Forum without a guide, I can assure you having an expert with you for that portion will make the experience much more meaningful.

4. VIP Colosseum Night Tour w/ Arena & Underground Access 

⭐ Rating: 4.0 / 5 | ⏰ Tour length: 2 hours | 🎟 BOOK NOW

Trace the footsteps of Romans and animals by booking your place on this VIP Colosseum tour by night. You’ll explore the secret network of subterranean tunnels and chambers, before discovering the original arena floor overhead. 

“We’ve been to the Colosseum during the day in the past and we’ve got to say that this tour has the WOW factor! It was a beautiful night, the tour was in depth, there were way less people there so our photos are fantastic and we felt less rushed, less crowded and simply had an incredible night! If you are in Rome in the evening, book this tour, you will not be disappointed!” – STEPHANIE ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Lasting for a couple of hours, this tour is just the right length so you can see everything you want to before hitting the streets of Rome for the evening.

Like other tours of the Colosseum at night, you also get to visit during a more peaceful and cooler time of the day. 

5. Guided Tour of the Colosseum by Night

⭐ Rating: 4 / 5 | ⏰ Tour length: 1 hour & 20 minutes | 🎟 BOOK NOW

This Colosseum evening tour commences with skip-the-line entry to Rome’s most famous landmark.

You’ll then head to the underground level to explore the subterranean chambers and tunnels here, before entering the higher level to discover what went on within the arena.

“Our guide was very friendly, spoke English very well and the entire tour was absolutely incredible!! Seeing it at night was magical and eerie at the same time. Definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Italy.” – DONNA ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

During the experience you can take pictures of the illuminated arena, and also learn from your guide all about what used to happen here, as well as why. 

6. Skip-the-Line Colosseum Night Tour

With this tour, priority access will get you into the illuminated Colosseum after darkness has fallen over Rome. As the tour lasts for around an hour and 20 minutes, it makes the ideal start to your night out in the Italian capital. 

“I did the day tour years ago, and it was crowded and hot and didn’t show much. This one was miles ahead of the day tour. Not only was there only one other tour, but our tour guide really made the colosseum come to life. The history is so interesting. In this tour they take you underground to where the gladiators slept and where they walked out and where they eventually fought. Highly recommend!” – TRACEY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Included in the tour cost are all applicable fees and taxes, skip-the line entry and the services of an English-speaking guide. The meeting point by Colosseum Metro Station is also very convenient. 

7. Colosseum Night Tour with Underground and Arena

⭐ Rating: 4 / 5 | ⏰ Tour length: 1 hour & 15 minutes | 🎟 BOOK NOW

Learn all about how the historic structure was originally built with this after-dark Colosseum tour.

Not only does the arena look completely different when illuminated at night, but you can also benefit from exclusive access to the arena floor and the underground tunnels here. 

“Excellent experience. Small group.with very knowledgeable guide. No crowd at all. In fact, at one time I believe our group of six including tour guide were the only ones inside the Colosseum. I highly recommend the Moonlight tour.” – JIM ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Avoiding the daytime crowds at the Colosseum is a great reason to book a night-time tour like this one. Do note, though, that all visitors require ID to enter this ancient Roman site. 

FAQs: Colosseum at Night Tours

As you plan your nighttime visit to the Colosseum, here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

Can you tour the Colosseum at night?

Though it’s not open to the general public, you can visit the Colosseum during the evening. To do so you’ll need to book an organized guided tour. 

Are there night tours of the Colosseum?

There are night tours of the Colosseum, and booking one is the only way to access the site after dark. These tend to last an hour or two, and give access to the underground chambers and tunnels plus the arena floor. 

Does the Colosseum get lit up at night?

The Colosseum in Rome is indeed illuminated at light, and makes for a very lovely sight while you’re walking or driving around the city. It also provides a unique photo opportunity, and lights the way for those taking Colosseum night tours. 

Is it worth going to the Colosseum at night?

There are good reasons for visiting the Colosseum in the evening. It looks completely different when all lit up after dark, and you can also avoid the crowds by heading here after dark. Night tours also tend to offer access to the underground areas and arena, giving you a more well-rounded experience. 

Is it better to go to the Colosseum in the morning or evening?

The best time of day to go to the Colosseum depends on your preference. To avoid the crowds, head here early in the morning if you’d like a daytime visit. The site opens at 8.30 am, so get there then or earlier if you can. Otherwise, booking an evening tour can help you skip both the lines and the crowds. 

Is the Colosseum Underground tour worth it?

It’s well worth seeing the Colosseum both below and above the ground. You can see all the chambers and tunnels under the earth, giving you a fuller understanding of how the arena worked.

Your tour guide will also explain everything to you, so you’ll feel as if you’re following in the footsteps of the ancient Romans! 

Is it better to do a guided tour of the Colosseum?

Whether by day or by night, a guided tour lets you get so much more out of your Colosseum visit. Under the guidance of a local expert, you can really appreciate what you’re seeing, and the role of the arena within the city and the Roman Empire.

Guided tours operate during the day and also at night. The latter gives guests exclusive access when the arena would usually be closed. 

Final Thoughts: Colosseum Night Tours in Rome

There you go – the best tours of the Roman Colosseum at night. I cannot recommend heading here after dark enough, whether you do this as well as or instead of a daytime visit. It’s an experience you’ll never forget, for sure, and offers some unique photo opportunities too!

If you’re a solo traveler like me, taking a guided tour is also a great way to meet like-minded people who are also alone in Rome .

Nausheen is a solo female traveler who is passionate about travel as a way to increase self love and confidence. She focuses on slow travel and bouts of digital nomadism, and has experience living abroad across several continents. As a post-divorce, South Asian woman in her 30s Nausheen aims to empower fellow women of color in particular to live life on their own terms. She shares travel itineraries, tips and inspiration on her blog and social media channels.

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Is A Colosseum By Night Tour Worth It? An Honest & Comprehensive Review

• Isabelle Hoyne
• February 15, 2024

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

Visiting the Colosseum at night is a unique experience, and is not one that everyone who is travelling to Rome will get to do. Possible only by taking a guided tour, read on to discover my Colosseum by night tour review and discover if a Colosseum by night tour is worth it. 

Lovers of Ancient Rome in search of something a little different will be delighted to discover that you can see the Colosseum at night.

Once the sun has set and general entry to the Colosseum has ended, it is possible for a handful of lucky few to walk around the Colosseum under the milky light of the moon.

This you can do by taking a Colosseum at night tour, where, with just the company of your group and an expert guide, you can walk in the footsteps of gladiators through the underbelly of the mighty Colosseum before ascending to the arena floor, to find it bathed in moonlight and devoid of tourists. 

In this post, I’ll walk you through the experience of a Colosseum tour at night, whether I think it’s worth taking and alternatives for visiting the Colosseum if you feel that a Rome Colosseum at night experience is not for you.

Since writing this post originally, I’ve also gone on to write a roundup of the best Colosseum night tours – with my number one choice being the tour reviewed in this post! Read on to learn all about it.

Quick links – Colosseum tours recommended in this post

Reviewed tour: VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor (1800+ 5* reviews) Alternative (daytime) ways to visit the Colosseum:  Skip the Line: VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor 1.5 Hour Colosseum Express Tour with Arena Stage Visit Self-guided: Skip-the-line Colosseum tickets entry tickets Roma Super Pass (includes the Vatican & St. Peter’s Basilica also)

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What is the colosseum famous for, descent into ruin and the importance of the colosseum today, is it better to see the colosseum at night or day, night tour of colosseum part 1: marcello theatre, night tour of colosseum part 2: capitoline hill & piazza del campidoglio, night tour of colosseum part 3: approach down via dei fori imperiali, night tour of colosseum part 4: night tour of colosseum, so, is a colosseum by night tour worth it, booking your rome colosseum at night tour, visiting the colosseum on your own (self-guided), visiting the colosseum as part of a guided tour, can you visit the colosseum at night, where can i buy colosseum by night tickets, what is the best colosseum night tour, what’s it like to visit the colosseum at night, visiting more of italy read next:, like this post please share or pin for later, but first – a little bit about the colosseum & why you should visit it.

First things first, it’s important to understand a little about this incredible structure’s history, and just why the Roman Colosseum is so important to Rome.

The Colosseum is one of the most famous structures ever built. Recognisable worldwide today for its worn, weathered stone and its distinct, crooked shape due to the collapse of some of its upper levels on one side, the Colosseum didn’t always appear as thus.

In its heyday it was a perfect sphere, adorned in gleaming white marble, with its now empty arches filled with statues. It was capped by a gargantuan, retractable velarium (or awning), which kept its 50,000 spectators shaded from the intense heat of the summer sun. 

Built by Vespasian in 72 AD, the Colosseum was originally known as the Flavian Amphitheater and was the scene of many bloody spectacles.

Games were organised and paid for by the ‘editor’, often the emperor himself, and were used at the time to curry political favour with the people (it was free to attend) or to celebrate great events, such as victory in war.

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A day at the games would kick off with the wild beast hunt, where exotic animals like elephants, leopards and lions would be pitted against one another, or against highly skilled hunters. Either way, the animals were always the real victims in this line up.

In 80 AD for the Flavian Amphitheater’s inauguration, the series of games held by the Emperor Titus resulted in the death of 9,000 animals.

Astonishingly, the statistics grew even worse – a mere 30 years later, Trajan held a series of games to celebrate his conquest of the Dacians, and sadly, some 11,000 animals were slaughtered.

At midday, it was time for public executions. Some of the condemned were set upon by wild animals; others had to fight each other with swords.

Sometimes, the deaths were even more elaborate, with scenes from Greek mythology reenacted, where the victims played the part of a character – such as the part of Hercules, who was burnt to death before becoming a god. Heart-warming stuff.

Finally, came the main event – the gladiatorial fights. Gladiators were highly skilled fighters. The best gladiators were rewarded with riches and fame, but they were also slaves, otherwise forced into servitude until their retirement age.

In the centuries following the fall of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum was used for a number of purposes. Primarily, it was used as a quarry and was stripped of its marble, statues and stone for other building projects.

In fact, much of the marble from Ancient Roman constructions was used to build many of Rome’s most famous churches and palaces, including the Vatican.

The Colosseum was also effected by earthquakes and lightning strikes and over time, its great hypogeum (the underground part that acted as ‘backstage’ for the games) was filled with rubble, and used as a store and dump.

The passageways above ground become home to blacksmiths, cobblers and priests and the Colosseum even found itself acting as a fortress for the 12th century Frangipane warlords. 

Preservation of the Colosseum only really started in the 19th century, under efforts led by Pope Pius VIII.

In the 1930’s, in one of Mussolini’s less abhorrent moves, the hypogeum was cleared of earth as part of his drive for the glorification of Classical Rome and in the 1990’s, a large restoration project was undertaken.  

Today, the Colosseum is one of Rome’s most important tourist attractions, along with being one of the most famous ones in the world to boot.

It stands as an important relic of Ancient Rome’s power and might, as well as evidencing its impressive engineering prowess. Receiving over 7 million visitors a year before the pandemic, it is also a huge source of revenue to Italian tourism.

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The best time to visit the Colosseum is when it is at its quietest. There are two times of day that win out. The second quietest time of day to visit the Colosseum is first thing in the morning.

If you queue for security about half an hour before they begin operating, you’ll likely be amongst the first visitors to the Colosseum that day, so you’ll get a good 15 – 20 mins in relative peace and quiet before it starts to fill up.

The absolute quietest time of day is after hours, at night , when general admission has ended and when privately led Colosseum night tours are the only ones permitted inside.

You’re not side-stepping other tourists and there is really time to look at things properly, and to take it all in. It’s all quite thrilling, really, especially if you’ve visited the Colosseum before during the day and can attest to how busy it gets. 

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There’s an almost eerie calm and the only sounds you can hear are your group’s footsteps, your guide’s voice and the humdrum of distant traffic from beyond the Colosseum’s great walls.

Without the clamour of the Colosseum’s crowds during the day, your imagination can really fire into action and you can imagine the clang of swords, the excited roars of the crowd and all the glamour and gore that were part of a day at the games in Ancient Rome.

In my opinion, visiting the Roman Colosseum at night wins out to visiting during the day. 

Colosseum by night tour review – my experience with TakeWalks

So you can understand what a night time Colosseum tour entails, the best way is to take you through the tour I took with TakeWalks, from start to finish.

The specific tour I took was the VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor , which is a circa 2.5 hour group tour of a maximum of 19 people. It might sound like a slightly larger group, but in a space as large as the Colosseum, it didn’t feel like there were that many other people at all. 

We met outside a café close to the Marcello Theatre, where we were handed headsets so that we could hear our guide properly. Then, the tour began!

First stop on our Rome Colosseum at night tour was the Marcello Theatre, or Teatro di Marcello .

Located to the side of Piazza Venezia and close to the steps that lead to the top of the Capitoline hill and museum, if you haven’t seen the Colosseum before you may be forgiven for thinking that the Marcello Theatre is it. 

Here, our guide Michela imparted some interesting facts about the theatre; including how it is still in use today as apartments and is under the ownership of a noble Italian family. 

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We then made our way across the road to the impressive set of steps that lead up to the Piazza del Campidoglio. Here, we learned how Michelangelo restored harmony to the square, making an awkward shape symmetrical by designing two of the palazzo that now form part of the Capitoline Museum. 

We looked down upon the Roman Forum from the back of the square, learning about Rome’s origins and some of its most important buildings and streets during the time of Ancient Rome.

All these tales were regaled with great enthusiasm and humour and we then made our way down a winding road from the back of the hill towards the ground level of the Forum, and the Via dei Fori Imperiali .  

While we made our approach towards the Colosseum, we stopped to take in some important sights along the way. We learned why local Romans don’t like the Alter of the Fatherland on Piazza Venezia, before pausing at the the former Trajan’s Market.

Here, I came to the conclusion that ancient Roman shopping and commercial centres weren’t a whole lot different to our own today!

As the dramatic, spot lit mass of the Colosseum loomed larger and larger as we made our way along the pavement, we made our penultimate stop of the night at the Basilica of Maxentius before making our way towards the entrance for the main event of our Roman Colosseum night tour – the Colosseum itself. 

We checked in through security and Michela handed us over to archaeologist, Gianluca. Once inside the walls of the Colosseum, all TakeWalks Colosseum tours at night are led by an expert that specialises in Roman history and architecture. 

We made our way down a gangway, moving deep inside the hypogeum on the lowest level of the Colosseum, which really made it feel like we were descending into the belly of a beast.

It is only when you are deep inside the structure when you really get a sense of the sheer scale and complexity in its design. 

The last time I visited the Colosseum was before the hypogeum had been exposed and opened to the public – there had been a fully intact arena floor in place. Now, there is a completely different proposition on offer.

As part of a Colosseum underground night tour , visitors can now access the part of the Colosseum that formed the backstage to its great events and receive a behind the scenes look at how the spectacle that were the games was made possible.

The hypogeum is a veritable warren of passageways, lined with cells that would have held gladiators, captors and animals as they prepared to face combat on the arena floor above.

It’s absolutely incredible to be granted such access and I felt compelled to touch the walls that so many would have passed through and which are so significant historically.  

From an engineering perspective, the Colosseum underground area is absolutely fascinating, too. Peppered in amongst the cells and passageways are horizontal channels and semicircular slices in the walls beside them.

The horizontal channels served as ancient elevator shafts and the semicircular spaces contained capstans, which would have been turned by hand to raise compartments and cages to the arena.

Some of these have been recreated, so you can see in person what these would have looked like. This elevator system would have raised men, animals and scenery to the arena floor, keeping spectators and fighters guessing as to where the next challenge may spring from. 

At its peak, there were sixty capstans in operation – forty of which lifted animal cages to the arena floor, with the remaining twenty used to move scenery.

If the notion of the games in the way they are described seemed in any way fantastical to you before visiting the hypogeum, all doubts will be put to rest when you do see it, as you can see the level of ingenuity that went into the construction of the Colosseum.  

Having taken in the mind-boggling hypogeum, we made our way to ground level for a more birds-eye look of maze that lay below, which really helped but into perspective how the whole event was orchestrated.

We learned about the experience at the games for the crowd and where different levels of society would have been seated. 

I won’t go into too much detail in telling you all the facts learnt at this stage of the tour, but there was ample time to consider the Colosseum from where the gladiators would have stood.

It’s really not too different from our stadiums of today (and in fact, was probably a whole lot glitzier than then) and you can’t help but imagine the swell of the crowd, the excited roars and suspense-ridden gasps, together with the clang of metal on metal when taking it all in.

RELATED READING | 9 Best Colosseum Underground Tours – Dive into Gladiatorial Rome

In my opinion, yes – a Colosseum by night tour is definitely worth it . You don’t have to deal with the daytime crowds and while the only way you can visit the Colosseum at night is with a tour guide, this is also an added bonus in itself as you’ll take far more from your visit than you would if visiting on your own.

So, is the Colosseum better at day or night? The answer to this one is not as straightforward and depends on whether you have visited the Colosseum before, want to combine the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill in the same visit, or want a more extensive tour of the Colosseum. 

During the day, you’ll get to see the upper level of the Colosseum too (we didn’t visit this as part of our Colosseum at night tour) and while you’re not missing out on too much, you will miss out on a great view of the Roman Forum from some of the arches of the upper tiers.

To help you make your choice, I’ve included a list of pros and cons below. 

• You’re one of a very small few in the Colosseum at the time, so you escape the crowds of daytime
• You’ll have to visit with a guide, which I think is a bonus in itself due to what you’ll learn
• You have time to take everything in
• You also pass through some other key sights of Ancient Rome
• Perfect if you’re looking for a unique & memorable experience
• You are tied to visiting with a guide, at a set time. This might not work for everyone.
• If you wish to visit the Forum, you’ll have to do so separately and will need to purchase a ticket. 
• You won’t get to visit the upper levels of the Colosseum
• Expense – as part of a guided tour, this is more expensive than visiting on your own.

I’d highly recommend the Rome Colosseum tour at night that I took with TakeWalks . TakeWalks are true experts in their field and offer great tours within Italy . I took this Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel tour with them during the same trip and it’s one of the best tours I’ve ever done. 

All TakeWalk tours are led by a highly accomplished, English-speaking guide and many have qualifications in the fields of history, architecture, archeology and art history.

From my experience of TakeWalks tours to date, their passionate guides have brought their subjects to life, imparting stories about people and places with humour, intelligence and sensitivity where required, resulting in some unforgettable travel experiences. 

My research (and subsequent experience) has led me to the conclusion that TakeWalks offers the best Colosseum night tour, but if, however, you would like to compare the TakeWalks tours against some other Colosseum by night tours , you can check out this tour by City Wonders:

• Colosseum Underground by Night: Semi-Private Tour with Arena Floor

Alternatives to a Colosseum night tour – some other ways to visit the Colosseum

Besides from Colosseum at night tours, the majority of Colosseum visits happen during the day. There are two main ways that you can visit the Colosseum during daytime:

• Visit the Colosseum on your own in a self-guided way
• Visit the Colosseum as part of a guided tour

If, having read my review above, you’ve decided that a self-guided daytime trip wins out over a night at the Colosseum, then I’d strongly urge you to a) visit first thing in the morning and; b) to purchase your tickets in advance.

This especially goes for if you are tied to visiting later in the day, as queues can grow very large and you’ll save yourself the hassle of joining the crowds by being able to just show up and waltz through security at your allotted time. 

How to purchase skip the line tickets to the Colosseum

Tickets to the Colosseum also include admission for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. I’d recommend that you purchase your tickets via Tiqets . Tiqets is a highly reputable ticket booking platform that I use regularly that provides entrance to iconic attractions and experiences.

It has a clean user interface and is great for booking tickets to multiple attractions in one destination, as you can keep them all in one place. 

Booking skip the line tickets for the Colosseum

Your first option is to book skip-the-line tickets to the Colosseum. This includes entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill also.

Book skip-the-line Colosseum tickets here

If you’re planning on visiting multiple attractions in Rome, then it may make sense to purchase a combi-ticket that includes entry to a number of sights. The Roma Super Pass includes entry to the Vatican, the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica. 

Purchase the Roma Super Pass here

There are several different types of guided tours of the Colosseum that you can do. 

Underground + Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Firstly, if you’re going to visit the Colosseum, then it’s highly likely that you’ll also visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, so try choose a tour that incorporates both.

Secondly, is a Colosseum underground tour worth it? I’d be inclined say that visiting the underground is unmissable – it’s the most interesting part of the Colosseum in my opinion – so I’d also choose a tour that incorporates both.

This TakeWalks tour fits the bill: Skip the Line: VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Gladiators Gate + Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Offering an alternative Colosseum experience to the above, on this tour you will enter the arena via the Gladiator’s Gate, where combatants would have made their way onto the area floor of the ancient amphitheatre.

This is a special-access area that will be closed off to other visitors, from which you can really absorb the fascinating history of this truly iconic monument. 

Again, TakeWalks runs a great tour: Gladiator’s Gate: Special Access Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor

Express Colosseum Tour

Lastly, is the best option for when you’re in a hurry. This express tour of the Colosseum is 1.5 hours long and focusses only on the famous monument itself. It also includes entry via the Gladiator’s Gate, from which you will get to experience the arena floor.

Learn more and book here: 1.5 Hour Colosseum Express Tour with Arena Stage Visit

FAQ about visiting the Colosseum underground by night

Yes, it is possible to visit the Colosseum at night but only by guided tour, which operate at limited times and with limited capacity – which makes the experience that extra bit special.

This post provides an overview of visiting the Colosseum at night time, reviews an excellent night time Colosseum tour and discusses alternative ways to visit the Colosseum if you decide that an after hours visit is not for you. Scroll up to read it in full.

You can buy tickets for Colosseum night tours online and it’s highly advisable that you book them well in advance. Only a limited amount of vendors have the licences and special permission to run night tours so during popular times they will book out.

I highly recommend the Colosseum underground by night tour that I took with TakeWalks . Another alternative vendor is this one .

A tour company that I really like and recommend for tours in cities like Paris, Rome, Florence, Seville etc is TakeWalks. After all of my own research of Colosseum night tours, I decided to take their VIP Colosseum At Night Tour With Underground & Arena Floor and was really happy that I did.

Group numbers are capped at 20 and the tour is led by Ancient Roman ex

Visiting the Colosseum at night is an altogether different one to visiting during the day. The arena is quiet and still, devoid of the daytime crowds and you really get a chance to examine the structure and imagine what it was like in its heyday. It’s a thoroughly unique experience.

Visiting Rome? Essential reading:

• ROME TRIP PLANNING | How Many Days Do You Need in Rome? [For Weekend Getaways, Cultural Immersions, or Something in Between]
• ROME ITINERARY | The Perfect 4-Day Rome Itinerary – Food, Culture & A Little Luxury
• ROME BY NIGHT | 19 Things To Do At Night In Rome, From Culture To Cocktails
• BEST COLOSSEUM UNDERGROUND TOURS | 9 Best Colosseum Underground Tours – Dive into Gladiatorial Rome
• ROME, NAPLES & AMALFI COAST | A Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast Itinerary for Culture, Food & Scenery
• FLORENCE, ROME & AMALFI COAST | A Sophisticated Florence, Rome & Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• COLOSSEUM BY NIGHT TOURS | Best Colosseum by Night Tours: 9 Top Picks for 2024
• BEST COLOSSEUM TOURS | 10 Best Colosseum Tours [2024] + Insider Tips to Choose Correctly
• FLORENCE ITINERARY | How To Spend 2 Days In Florence – A Comprehensive Guide
• SIENA CITY GUIDE | The Perfect Way To Spend A Day In Siena, Italy
• AMALFI COAST ITINERARY | The Perfect 10 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary For A Luxurious But Authentic Trip
• TUSCANY ROAD TRIP | Tuscany Guide – How To Have A Very Memorable Tuscan Road Trip
• RAVELLO GUIDE | Ravello Travel Guide: Where To Stay, Eat + The Best Things To Do In Ravello

Related Topics

Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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Best Colosseum at Night Tours

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2023

Categories Europe

Planning to visit Rome but not sure if you should visit the Colosseum at night ?

Well, let me tell you that you should 1000% visit the Colosseum in the evening and book one of these epic Colosseum night tours to do so.

Trust me, I have been to Rome tons of times and have explored the Colosseum by day and night numerous times.

And honestly? The Colosseum at night time is WAY better. After all:

• The crowds are gone
• The Colosseum is stunning by moonlight
• You don’t have to deal with the insane heat of the sun
• You get access to areas that are restricted to visitors during the day
• You get skip-the-line access

Umm…need I say more?

The only slight downside is that you need to book one of the best Colosseum at night tours asap to visit this landmark in the evening.

Yeah, people aren’t allowed to freely wander around the Colosseum after it has officially closed.

Therefore, use this ultra-handy guide to pick out an ultra-rad Colosseum evening tour that is perfect for you.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Want the best Colosseum at night tour? 🌙 Then book this tour! It’s my top pick since it’s well-priced/well-reviewed, and brings you to the Roman Forum/Trajan’s Column too ! 🇮🇹

Best Colosseum Night Tours

1. exclusive after dark colosseum at night tour.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (159 Reviews) Price: $217.48 per person Duration: 1-2 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Colosseo, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Wanna walk in the footsteps of gladiators without getting elbowed in the face by other tourists?

Or, want photos without ten thousand other people holding selfie sticks in the background?

If so then this Exclusive After-dark Tour of the Colosseum at Night has your name on it.

Now, this 1/2-hour tour is fully inclusive of a visit to the underground area and the arena floor.

So, as you partake in this access all-areas Colosseum tour , your guide will enthrall, delight, and shock you with historical tales that you have never heard before (shout out to Eni who was a fabulous guide).

Furthermore, this is one of the best night tours of the Colosseum if you’re looking for an intimate vibe.

See, group sizes do not exceed 15. And when I did it I was actually the only one there so it felt like a private Colosseum underground night tour.

“Excellent tour guide. Paulo and Ali were outstanding. Very knowledgeable, and went beyond expectations to make our tour a personable and memorable experience.” Edgar ( read more reviews now )

But, despite the tour’s compact size, you’ll still receive a headset to ensure that you don’t miss a thing when it comes to the expert commentary.

Therefore, you can wander around at will and not miss out on all the epic info (and jokes) your tour guide has to offer.

What also makes this Colosseum night tour stand out is the fact that you’ll swing by one of Rome’s seven hills, the Capitoline. Yeah, a lot of the other tours just don’t do this.

Overall, it’s a really fun time as you get to learn about Rome’s storied past – an experience that is rounded off by the sheer thrill of seeing the amphitheater at night.

Pro Tip: My guide was super lovely and humored me with the absurd number of photo stops I requested.

Just remember that while the Colosseum is a lot less crowded at night, there is also a lot less light. So, brush up on your nighttime photo skills before you visit.

2. VIP Colosseum Under the Moon with Underground and Arena Access

⭐️ Rating: 3.5/5.0 (126 Reviews) Price: $119.12 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Via del Colosseo, 24 Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Now, what about experiencing the Colosseum in the evening like an emperor?

Well, if that scenario sounds mighty appealing to you then you might want to don your finest tunic and snap up a spot on this VIP Colosseum Under the Moon tour .

See, this package is inclusive of a stop at the arena floor, the underground dungeons, and the upper tier of the ancient amphitheater.

Plus, there’s no waiting in line with the plebs thanks to your skip-the-line entry.

Now, as you enjoy this Colosseum night time tour, your expert guide will give you the inside scoop on the rich and varied history of this incredible venue.

“It was amazing. The tour guy was very knowledgeable and nice. When the tour time changed. They emails and called to make sure I was aware. Then there was another guide inside the colosseum that gave all same info as our tour guide. So I could have saved money booing directly to the colosseum. But it was amazing.” Claudia ( read more reviews now )

Plus, the audio will be crystal clear since you’ll receive a handy headset.

FYI, questions are warmly encouraged.

On top of an already epic tour, this excursion includes a glass of Italian prosecco during your mega epic outing.

After all it’s thirsty work trying to clamber around Rome’s greatest treasure.

Sadly, though, there are no chariots provided to tow you down the avenue.

But, this is still one of the best Colosseum at night tours if you’re looking to live the luxe life for a hot minute.

3. Colosseum of Rome with Arena Floor Evening Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (797 Reviews) Price: $86.34 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Trajan’s Column, Via dei Fori Imperiali, 00187 Roma RM Operator: City Wanders Ltd. Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Now, this Colosseum with Arena Floor Evening Tour differs slightly from the other excursions on this list.

Because this pick for the best night tour of the Colosseum starts right after standard operating hours end.

So, subject to the time of year, you should expect to be in the belly of the Colosseum around dusk/sunset.

But, as with the others, this Colosseum night tour is quieter since all of the daytime visitors will be gone.

Additionally, this package includes skip-the-line access to the arena floor.

It’s also worth noting that there are select times when you can upgrade your tour to include underground access. But, this only applies to specific dates.

“MJ is an excellent guide. She is very well versed in the history of the colosseum. She told us some fascinating history. The colosseum is at its very best in the evening. Having the chance to be there under the glow of the setting sun was a real highlight of our visit to Rome.” Sarah ( read more reviews now )

By the by, the meeting point is Trajan’s Column. Therefore, you get an exciting build-up to the star attraction as you saunter down the Via dei Fori Imperiali.

In fact, the tour includes a stop near the Roman Forum where you’ll get a crazy view of the very spot that birthed the Empire.

Ultimately, this tour is an awesome choice if you’re looking for a wider perspective on Roman history.

4. Guided Colosseum at Night Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5.0 (106 Reviews) Price : $84.92 per person Duration: 70-75 minutes 📍 Meeting Point: In front of the Colosseum Metro Station Operator: Discover Rome Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Step into the sandals of a gladiator during this Guided Colosseum at Night Tour.

Now, this tour begins with a rendezvous at the Colosseo Metro Station.

Then, it’s onwards to the mighty landmark where you’ll breeze through the ticket office with your skip-the-line privileges as you make the most of your 2 day Rome itinerary .

First up, you’ll wander through the tunnels, chambers, and pits that form the underground area.

FYI, very few tourists can visit the subterranean layer with a daytime ticket, making this Colosseum evening tour infinitely superior.

Plus, you’ll zoom in on the elevators beneath the arena floor.

Yeah, did you know the Colosseum actually comes fully equipped with a super swanky system of lifts and trapdoors?

“Amazing tour, very nice guide, lot of fun information. And an evening tour means not crowded and not too hot, enough time to look around and enjoy the whole experience of the Colosseum. I can only recommend choosing the evening tour with Discover Rome Tours, absolutely amazing.” Anonymous ( read more reviews now )

Well, now you do! And this Colosseum night time tour will explain exactly what these were used for!

At the same time, you’ll discover how masterful Roman engineers really were.

Of course, the visit culminates with a walk across the arena beneath a blanket of glistening stars.

Plus, at 70-80 minutes long, this is a slightly shorter Colosseum night tour and there are usually a couple of different time slots available for you to choose from if you have a busy schedule.

5. Rome Colosseum at Night with Underground and Arena Floor Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (330 Reviews) Price: $70.30 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Via del Colosseo 244 Operator: Italy With Family Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Not gonna lie, this is easily one of the top-rated Colosseum night tours of them all.

See, this activity includes a wicked awesome visit to the reconstructed arena floor and the underground dungeons too.

Essentially, the tour commences in the grandstands. There, your knowledgeable local guide will give the lowdown on the history and past uses of the gigantic amphitheater.

Next, you will head belowground and roam the tunnels during the best Colosseum night tour around.

FYI, this is a super-restricted part of the attraction. It’s where the gladiators (and poor animals) were held ahead of entering the area.

“Fantastic tour – one of the highlights in Rome! The tour is a small group of 15-20 people. It starts out with a local guide taking you to various parts surrounding the outside of the Colosseum while providing history/stories for about 45 mins. They will then drop you at the entrance of the Colosseum and another guide will take you underground and to arena floor. Both guides were incredible and we were entertained and engaged the entire time! Highly recommend – this was way better than visiting the Colosseum during the day. Much better for photos without the crowds with great insights to the history of Rome.” Anonymous (r ead more reviews now )

So, if you don’t visit the Colosseum at night then you’re not gonna get to see this place.

Yeah, it’s one of those magical places where you’ll feel a chill run down your spine as you imagine the fear of the gladiators held in these chambers.

Ultimately, the tour concludes with a visit to the arena floor beneath the moonlight.

Again, this area is restricted to daytime tourists due to preservation.

In fact, this segment includes some time to explore independently before you’re led to the exit.

Now, this tour lasts around 2 hours. And, as with most night tours in Rome, the start times vary based on the time of year.

Pro Tip: Like with all of the best Colosseum at night tours, you get to see parts of the Colosseum you wouldn’t see during the day, don’t have to deal with horrible daytime crowds, and don’t have to contend with intense heat from the sun.

6. Rome Colosseum Under the Moonlight

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (12 Reviews) Price: $71.04 per person Duration: 2.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Santi Cosma e Damiano Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Of course you are since nothing guarantees a rumbling tummy more than spending a day traipsing around Rome – also why you need a good Rome food tour in your life.

And that’s why this Colosseum Under the Moonlight tour commences with a quick bite to eat.

Now, it’s no banquet but you can expect a couple of light bar snacks and a drink to satiate you before embarking on one of the best Colosseum night tours around.

You’ll also get to break the ice with your fellow Colosseumgoers and chit-chat with your professional tour guide about life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (j/k).

“The tour was wonderful and Renata was a great guide. She was personable, knowledgeable and really made the experience fun. And it was lovely to see the Colosseum at night with fewer people and cooler temperatures. I would recommend it.” Jennifer ( read more reviews now )

Afterward, you’ll step into this UNESCO World Heritage Site and tune into your guide’s commentary.

Plus, you’ll get a headset on this tour to make sure you catch all the juicy deets.

Now, this mega epic 2.5-hour tour covers both the arena floor where the ferocious games took place and the underground lair where gladiators waited to enter the arena.

Additionally, you will walk along the Via dei Fori Imperiali and get a peek at the Roman Forum too!

Just remember that this tour also includes a stop at the stunning viewpoint at Capitoline Hill, which is illuminated beneath the night sky.

Essentially, this is the best Colosseum evening tour if you’re looking for added value.

So, What’s it Like to Visit the Colosseum at Night?

Not to be biased, but exploring the Colosseum at night is a superlative experience.

See, there are only a limited number of tours allowed in the complex at night.

Therefore, the amphitheater is practically deserted and you’ll have fewer crowds interfering with your views.

This also makes for a pretty surreal atmosphere – especially once the stars start to twinkle and the moon rises above you.

Plus, if you visit in summer, you’re spared the sweltering heat.

Now, in case of severe rain or storms, most tour operators will reschedule. In general, though, they will offer you an alternative date or a refund.

But, it’s super important to read the booking terms of your chosen Colosseum at night tour.

Additionally, you will gain access to parts of the Colosseum that most daytime visitors don’t get to see, like the arena and underground.

Heck, you can even enjoy taking photos without a million people in the background.

Pros and Cons of Visiting the Colosseum at Night

So, is it worth it to visit the Colosseum at night?

Let’s weigh in with an epic pros and cons list.

But, my short answer is yes!!! A thousand times yes.

Want the best Colosseum at night tour? 🌙 Then book this tour ! It’s my top pick since it’s well-priced/well-reviewed, and brings you to the Roman Forum/Trajan’s Column too! 🇮🇹

Colosseum at Night FAQs

Can you go in the colosseum at night.

It is possible to go into the Rome Colosseum at night but only as part of a guided tour.

These tours take you to the Colosseum arena floor and underground tunnels. Night tours run all year long and require advance booking.

Is it worth visiting the Colosseum at night?

It’s totally worth visiting the Colosseum at night. There are barely any crowds (so you can take great photos), zero chance of sunburn, and it’s a surreal experience.

It’s particularly worth visiting the Colosseum at night in summer when Rome is subject to extreme heat.

How Late Can you Visit the Colosseum?

The Colosseum of Rome is open daily from 09.00 AM and closes 1 hour before sunset.

The final admission is 1 hour ahead of closing time. But, the best Colosseum at night tours let you visit the landmark as late as 21:00 PM while enjoy this landmark beneath the moonlight.

What Time is Best to see the Colosseum?

The best time to see the Colosseum is first thing in the morning or at night.

This spares you from the hot weather during summer and the crowds that inundate the area year-round.

With the exception of December when Christmas brings a flurry of tourists, the low season of November through March is a quieter, aka better, time for visiting the Colosseum.

Additional Rome Resources You’ll Love

• How to Save Money in Rome
• Unusual Things to do in Rome
• Quotes about Rome

There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best Colosseum at night tours.

Tell me, did your picks for the best colosseum night tours make the list if not then let me know in the comments below., and if you found this post useful, be sure to join our email list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later..

Privacy Overview

Is a Colosseum Night Tour Worth the Splurge? (+ Tips!)

A crisp evening breeze, the glow of moonlight, and an almost eerie quiet that allows you to hear your footsteps echoing as you explore 2,000 years worth of history: welcome to a Colosseum night tour.

As one of the most famous and most visited monuments in the world, it’s no secret that exploring the Colosseum (technically named the Flavian Amphitheatre) is one of the absolute best things to do in Rome.

For an extra-special experience that goes well beyond the typical tour, though… consider visiting the Colosseum at night.

We have spent months exploring Rome in-depth, including touring the Colosseum 3 separate times, and absolutely adored our time spent exploring the Colosseum by night.

If you’re considering doing the same, here’s everything you need to know before you go!

Table of Contents

What’s it like to visit the Colosseum at night?

Pros and cons of taking a colosseum night tour, our colosseum night tour (+ how to book), other ways to visit the colosseum in rome.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

When stepping into the Colosseum at night, the most immediately apparent sensation is (near) silence.

Only a handful of tour groups are allowed in the Colosseum at any one time after hours, and the result is an experience that feels remarkably like having the entire monument to yourself.

Breezing past security–perhaps with a bit of a grin at all of the empty security checks where less lucky visitors waited in long lines earlier in the day–and descending directly into the Colosseum is absolutely sublime.

We’ve been lucky enough to tour the Colosseum in just about every possible way–independently, with a tour guide during the day, and now with a tour guide at night–and firmly consider our after-hours Colosseum visit to be our favorite of them all.

Meandering through the Underground, hearing the (often very sad) history of the structure, and staring out over the arena with nothing but moonlight above is an unforgettable experience.

The only way to visit the Colosseum in the evening is via a guided tour , so you will have a group and a guide with you during your experience.

That being said, there are simply so few people around compared to during the day that you can’t help but revel in the lack of crowds.

Book the same Colosseum night tour we loved today!

As much as we loved visiting the Colosseum after it closed for the day, there’s no doubt that there are some very specific trade-offs that come with visiting the Colosseum at night vs during the day.

This is especially true if it’s your first trip to Rome and you haven’t visited the Colosseum before!

Here are the essential pros and cons to consider when deciding if a Colosseum night tour is right for you.

The Pros of Visiting the Colosseum By Night

The atmosphere is incredible..

This truly cannot be overstated: the atmosphere of the Colosseum at night is fantastic, and the #1 reason to book a night tour.

The quiet, the space, the way it’s much easier to imagine the past with the help of the surrounding darkness–there’s truly nothing like the atmosphere inside the Colosseum after hours.

You’ll share the experience with very few people.

Having toured the Colosseum twice during the day, I can’t possibly overstate how much the lack of crowds changes the experience.

This ties in to the atmosphere, too–you’ll have enough space to hear yourself think–and makes a night tour of the Colosseum an unforgettable experience.

It’s not hot (very important in the summer).

Rome gets very hot during the summer, which also happens to be one of the most popular times to visit!

Escaping the heat is an enormous motivating factor for enjoying an evening in the Colosseum during the summer months.

We took our Colosseum night tour in June and loved getting to enjoy the monument without the uncomfortable heat of earlier in the day.

The Cons of Visiting the Colosseum By Night

You can’t visit the roman forum and palatine hill..

While the Colosseum is open for tours in the evenings, the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill typically are not.

Since all of these sites are usually included in the same ticket (or the same tour, depending on how you book), not getting to visit these sites is a definite downside of visiting the Colosseum after hours.

If you book an evening tour and still want to tour the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill on the same trip, you’ll need to book a separate ticket and come back the next day (or whenever it fits into your Rome itinerary ).

It’s a bit harder to take the typical photos.

For obvious reasons, snapping your own photos inside the Colosseum is a bit more difficult if you’re visiting at night, especially if you want to be in them!

It is doable, though.

Most of the photos in this blog post were shot on our camera , but this one was taken on my iPhone 13 Pro:

It’s the pricier option.

If you’re visiting Rome on a budget, this is a clear downside to spending an evening in the Colosseum: it is without a doubt more expensive than visiting during the day!

This is especially true if, given the option, you would explore independently rather than with a tour, as you must book a tour to visit the Colosseum at night.

However, a tour does greatly enhance your experience and understanding of the monument, and we prefer visiting with one.

We had an absolute blast on this well-reviewed Colosseum night tour !

Our evening started by meeting our guide near one of the best Colosseum viewpoints.

From there, we took a short walking tour around the outside of the Colosseum and Forums, enjoying stories about Ancient Rome, the construction of the Colosseum, and more.

Our guide was very witty and did an excellent job bringing the Colosseum to life for our group as night started to fall around us.

Shortly after sunset, we entered the Colosseum.

Rome strictly manages its Colosseum tours, and as a result, virtually all tours will include separate guides for inside and outside the monument (this was also our experience when we took a daytime tour of the Colosseum).

Our second guide–who was also incredibly knowledgeable in the history of the building and Ancient Rome in general–led us directly past the (now empty) security lines and into the depths of the Underground.

Not all Colosseum tours–night or day versions–include a visit to the Underground and the Arena Floor, but we absolutely recommend it.

This is where the sets, animals, and gladiators prepared for the “shows” above, and visiting adds valuable context to the building.

The Underground has also recently been expanded, and as of 2022, you can tour the entire floor, not just a small piece as in the past–and it adds so much to the experience!

Our tour ended with the classic view of the Colosseum, with the moonlight high above us and the breeze refreshing.

We had a fantastic time and heartily recommend taking an after-hours tour of the Colosseum.

Book your tour of the Colosseum at night today!

Don’t think that visiting the Colosseum by night is the right fit for you this trip?

That’s alright–there are several other ways to visit!

We took this popular guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill a few years ago, and can highly recommend it.

The Colosseum is absolutely brought to life with a tour guide–and that effect is even more dramatic with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which both require quite a bit of historical context to fully appreciate.

Shop guided tours of the Colosseum + Roman Forum today!

Not into guided tours?

A timed entry, skip-the-line ticket for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill is an excellent way to visit.

This was how we visited the Colosseum for the very first time, and we were blown away by the experience.

That being said–after visiting Rome’s iconic Colosseum 3 separate times, there’s no doubt that our Colosseum night tour was the most memorable experience of them all.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “Is a Colosseum Night Tour Worth the Splurge? (+ Tips!)”

Hi all your links just take us to the get your guide site, they don’t specify which tour you took. Can you send a link to the one you took please. Thanks 😊 Shannon

Hi Shannon,

Apologies, Get Your Guide has changed around their link structure and made things a bit more confusing! Here you go (first tour highlighted in blue): https://www.getyourguide.com/rome-l33/rome-colosseum-by-night-with-underground-arena-floor-tour-t409358/?partner_id=1OI4D21&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=ColosseumNightRome

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The Colosseum at night: all you need to know to plan your visit

All you need to know to visit the R oman Colosseum at night: how to get tickets, what to expect, practical tips for visitors . Our review of Luna sul Colosseo by Coopculture. Updated Feb. 2023.

There is only one thing more exciting than visiting the Colosseum : visiting the Colosseum at night!

During a selected number of months each year, the Roman Colosseum opens its doors in the evening and welcomes visitors to explore its ancient spaces after dark.

The experience is magical: under the spell of Rome’s summer sky, visitors to the Colosseum feel transported into a different time and learn about the life of this incredible monument under the attentive guidance of a local guide.

Under their expert lead, visitors explore the underground area of the Colosseum, see the gladiators’ gate and set foot onto the arena.

This journey brings them from the gory underbelly of the amphitheater to the open air marvel of the theatre’s seating area where the Emperor and lesser Roman cities came together to watch the famous hunts and shows.

I have visited the Colosseum many times and I highly recommend this night experience.

While the tour doesn’t cover the entirety of the monument, the journey along the underground corridors and the area make the place come to life and offers fantastic photo opportunities and learning moments.

Whether you have already been to the Colosseum or are planning a first visit, I dearly recommend you try and secure a ticket for a night visit: it is an experience you will keep with you forever!

Table of Contents

Colosseum at night – dates and prices for ‘Luna sul Colosseo’

The evening tours of the Colosseum are called ‘Luna sul Colosseo’ aka Moon over the Colosseum.

They happen every year in the summer and fall seasons on selected dates Thursday to Saturday only.

In 2022, the Colosseum night tours happen:

Dates: 20 May 2022 – 31 December 2022 Dates for 2023 have not been released yet.

Duration: 1 hour

Tickets are available exclusively from the Colosseum Official Concession Coopculture and have the following cost:

• Adult (full fare)  € 25.00
• ParCo Membership Holders  € 22.00
• Reduced Fare for under 25  € 20.00
• Free for kids under 6

Tickets usually become available one month in advance.

You can secure your tickets here

Please note : tickets are not changeable and non refundable

Night Tour of the Colosseum: what to expect

I believe the best way to share what a night tour of the Colosseum feels like is to tell you how the visit went for us.

This review comes from our last visit, just yesterday.

Our group included myself and my two children, currently aged 10 and 11.

We got our tickets through Coopculture about a month ago and we started our visit at 21.30 (9.40 pm).

Arrival, tickets and security check

We arrived at the Colosseum about twenty minutes before the start of our tour. We found no line and a kind employee told us we were way too early and to go back five minutes before the start of the tour.

This is just what we did: we spent the time listening to the street musicians and taking photos of the arch of Constantine lit up (if you are curious, you can read here >>> all about Rome’s Triumphal Arches ) and, five minutes before the start of our tour, showed up again at the entrance.

We were let in straight away and directed to the security checks.

Security was airport style and was cleared in a matter of seconds.

One of the most significant advantages of the night tour of the Colosseum is that there is hardly anyone there.

So we were able to clear security and take some lovely photos of the main entrance with absolutely no one there!

After security, we were shown a meeting point and out guide came to collect our tour there. He gave us small amplifiers to listen to him via headphones and off we went.

Stop 1: the Colosseum underground area

After a brief introduction about the birth of the Colosseum and the topography of this area, meaningful to the nature of the amphitheatre, our guide led us to the underground part of the Colosseum.

I spoke before, about why we recommend visiting the Colosseum underground tunnels , and yesterday we confirmed this area to be the most fascinating.

The area develops under the arena floor, aka under the stage, and it is where all the behind-the-scenes action happened.

Here, you see the gate the gladiators used to access the arena, the area with animal cages, the lifts to carry them up to the stage.

You also get acquainted with some elements of the structure of the Colosseum and you hear the story of why archaeologists believe the Colosseum was occasionally used for naval battles.

The tunnels used to be under the stage area and must have been awful and oppressive.

Now, they are all but: the arena floor doesn’t currently cover them.

Hence, you find yourself walking under the starry sky – a romantic, exceptional and totally out of context experience if you think this places was mostly a deadly machine but a wonderful one all the same.

Stop 2: the Jerusalem Fresco

Each year the Colosseum by Night experience focuses on one aspect of the amphitheater’s history.

This year, the focus is the history of the Colosseum in the XVII.

The Colosseum was built in the I century AD and stayed in use until about the VI century.

After that, it had several incarnation, one of which saw a project to turn it into a church.

The Colosseum was partially built with riches coming from the taking of the Tempe of Jerusalem by Titus and very late sources (then proved wrong) mention it as a place of martyrdom for Christians.

As a way to make amends, in the XVII there was an idea to turn it into a church and indeed, it is now possible to see remains of three different Christian churches inside it and stations of the Way of The Cross.

As well as the stations, a fresco bears witness of this time.

The fresco represents the town of Jerusalem as an ideal city and shows drawings of the temple, the locations of hte Crucifixion and other elements such as Roman forts.

The fresco is brought back to life by lights and projections and casts a new light on the history of the Colosseum, often only associated with the years of gladiator fights.

Stop 3: the arena

Our tour’s third and last stop was the arena, aka the area that used to host the battles and shows, stage.

The arena is very impressive.

Standing on it, you fin yourself find yourself on a stage overlooked by 72,000 seats that would have hosted the same number of Roman citizens eager to see some action.

On the stage, you can see the audience’s seats, look at the underground area from above and you can imagine how daunting it must have been to be brought there for one of the shows.

The area used to host animal hunts, gladiator fights and the carrying out of capital sentences.

The arena is one of the most visually impressive parts of the Colosseum and it is a great place to visit with a guide: gladiator fights have sparked the imagination of many and it is interesting to learn how only some of what we think we know is actually correct!

You can have a quick sense of what we learned by reading here >>> our quick summary of gladiator facts .

Need to know : the nigh tour doesn’t bring you to the upper parts of the Colosseum and does not include a visit to the exhibition on the second floor. For this, you need to secure a day tour instead.

Visiting the Colosseum at night with kids: tips + need to know

I visited the Colosseum at night with my kids and we notices several other families.

The tour is not specifically for children; however, the contained duration (1h) and the friendly guide made it interesting and suitable for them.

Very small kids (toddlers) may find the tour too constricting: the tour follows a pre-organised path and you cannot go and wander so there is little respite should you have a little ones who gets restless.

It is also essential to know that while you can bring a stroller into the Colosseum, this particular tour didn’t allow them: the one family that came with one was able to leave it at the entrance and retrieve it at the end.

For older kids, the tour is a bit of a treat: the darkness and the lighting made it atmospheric and a little bit adventurous – perfect for primary school kids and teenagers.

Find here >>> all our tips for visiting the Colosseum with kids

The Colosseum at night vs day: what’s better?

A visit to the Colosseum at night feels very different to a visit during the day, so much so that I was delighted be able to do both (the dvatges of being local! I can just come over and over again!).

The main differences to be aware of are:

• The Colosseum at night Luna Sul Colosseo is by guided tour only
• The tour of the Colosseum at night includes the underground area and the arena but not the second tier
• You can visit the colosseum during the day with or without a guide
• The day visit to the Colosseum often includes access to the Forum. The one at night doesn’t.

Another way to look at differences is:

Why visit the Colosseum at night

• Taking all of the above info account, I recommend you visit the Colosseum at night if:
• You are in Rome in summer and want to avoid the middle of teh day heat
• You want to visit the Colosseum with a guide and don’t mind skipping the Forum
• You have already seen the Colosseum during the day and want to explore it from a different point of view
• You have kids and teenagers who may enjoy the adventurous feel of the evening tour

Why not to visit the Colosseum at night

I do not recommend you visit the Colosseum at night if you want:

• Wander at your own pace
• See the upper tiers and the exhibitions on tier 2
• Also explore the Forum (you’d need to source a separate ticket for it)
• On a very cold night
• Have very small kids

Practical tips to visit the Colosseum at night

A tour of the Colosseum required a good bit of walking, so we recommend:

• Wear comfortable shoe s: the Colosseum floor is often uneven and good walking shoes or sandals are a must. You don’t need hiking shoes or anything technical but comfy sandals, sneakers or similar will take good care of your feet. Avoid heels.
• In summer, dress lightly ! There is no dress code for the Colosseum and summer gets hot: make sure you dress for teh weather
• In winter, wrap up! The Colosseum can get very cold in winter: make sure you have suitable attire and dress for the weather
• Bring small bags : as much as possible, limit the size of your luggage. At night there are fewer people but bulky luggage is not allowed as it can pose security risks. A normal size crossbody bag or day backpack is ok
• When booking, choose the ‘print at home’ option so you can show your tickets on your phone with no need to print them out on paper and no need to stop at the ticket office.

How to skip the line when visiting the Colosseum at night

All tickets for the Colosseum at night are timed which means there is no line!

You only need to get to the entrance a few minutes before your turn and you’ll be let in no problem. Please do not pay extra for tickets promising you’ll skip the line: there is no need as there is not line to be skipped!

The line happened when they allowed people to get tickets on the day: if you have your ticket, there is no line and no reason to pay any extra.

I hope you enjoyed this quick overview of the tour of the Colosseum at night and it made you want to visit.

Safe travels!

The Colosseum is the most visited landmark in the city. Find here >>> all Rome top ten attractions

Additional resources to visit the Colosseum

• How to buy Colosseum tickets from the official website
• How to buy tickets to the Colosseum (4 best ways)
• How to visit the Colosseum – best tickets and tours
• How to visit the Colosseum with kids

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

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