The Colosseum is a massive structure, and the time needed to explore it depends on what you want to see.
A self-guided visit to the Colosseum, along with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, takes about 2 to 3 hours.
If you prefer a guided tour, the duration varies based on the ticket you purchase, ranging from 1 hour for a basic tour to 3.5 hours for an in-depth experience that includes the Underground and Arena Floor.
To make the most of your visit, it’s important to plan ahead.
Buying tickets online, arriving early, and choosing the right time to visit can help you avoid long waits.
This guide covers the estimated tour durations and provides useful tips to reduce your time at the Colosseum so that you can enjoy your trip without the hassle!
Duration of self-guided tour
A self-guided tour of the Colosseum, along with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, usually takes around 2 to 3 hours.
You have the freedom to explore at your own pace and can leave earlier if you’ve seen enough.
Once inside the Colosseum, you can stay as long as you like during operating hours.
There are plenty of great spots for photos, both inside and outside, so you can take your time to capture memories.
Mandatory security check: 5 to 10 minutes
Colosseum (first and second level): 45 to 60 minutes
Roman Forum: 1 hour
Palatine Hill: 1 hour
Duration of guided tours
The standard guided tour of the Colosseum, which covers the first and second levels, takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
A full guided tour that includes the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours.
The Underground tours and Arena tours, which include guided access to the Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill, take around 3 to 3.5 hours.
Mandatory security check: 5 to 10 minutes
Colosseum (first and second level): 60 to 90 minutes
Arena floor (optional): 30 minutes
Underground (Hypogeum): 30 minutes
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: 1.5 hours
Note: Some tours include guided visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, while others provide guided tours only for the Colosseum and then leave you to explore the archaeological sites independently.
Tips to reduce your time at Colosseum
Avoid long waits by skipping the ticket counter and buying your tickets online. This lets you enter the Colosseum in just a few minutes instead of standing in long lines.
Arriving early at the Colosseum also helps you beat the rush.
Every Colosseum ticket includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Since the Colosseum is busiest in the morning, it’s a good idea to explore these sites first before heading to the Colosseum at your scheduled time.
The best time to visit the Colosseum is during the lean months from November to February, when crowds are smaller.
Weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday, are less busy than Mondays and Fridays, attracting weekend travelers.
Avoid visiting on the first Sunday of the month, as free entry brings in huge crowds, making it one of the busiest days. Planning your visit wisely will help you save time and enjoy the Colosseum without the hassle!
