Exploring the Appian Way, one of the most ancient and well-preserved Roman roads.
Rome might be a bustling capital, with trafficked streets and packed attractions, but it also offers opportunities to unwind in nature, while breathing in ancient Roman history.
The Appia Antica, or the Appian Way, is what could be considered the first ancient highway, connecting Rome to Brindisi in Puglia. This historic road was once referred to as the Regina viarum or queen of the streets, a testament to its significance in ancient times.
The Appian Way owes its name to Appius Claudius Caecus, a Roman censor who oversaw the construction of the first part of the road, built as a military path to the south in 312 BC. Yes, it’s that old!
In July 2024, the Via Appia was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, becoming Italy’s 60th listing and cementing its status as one of the most significant cultural routes in the world.
Today, the road is a remarkable relic of Rome’s past. It’s an essential stop on any Rome itinerary!
The first 16 kilometers of the Appian Way are now part of the Parco dell’Appia Antica regional park. This stretch of the road begins from Porta San Sebastiano and is lined with many ancient monuments on both sides. The road is remarkably well-preserved, constructed from large, flat stones known as basoli.
Some of the sites that have stood the test of time along the path include the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and the Catacombs of San Callisto. These catacombs served as burial sites for Christian martyrs. They are a fascinating and unique attraction to visit in Rome.
Further along is the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, built in honor of Cecilia Metella, daughter-in-law of Marcus Crassus, who was a prominent figure under Julius Caesar.
Another highlight is the Circus and Villa of Maxentius, a grand arena where chariot races were once held, situated next to the remains of Emperor Maxentius’ vast villa.
Next up is the Villa of the Quintili. It stands as Rome’s most extensive suburban villa, once owned by the two brothers Sesto Quintilio Condiano and Sesto Quintilio Valerio Massimo, notable figures during the era of Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius.
Each monument/museum has its own opening times and prices, some being free. Or if you’re just looking for a daytime refuge from busy Roman life, bring a picnic and enjoy the sun on the park’s grounds!
The Appia Antica offers a perfect blend of history, sightseeing, and physical activity, especially if you opt to explore it by bike.
How to explore the Appian Way
The Appia Antica Regional Park is not far from the centre. To arrive directly at the official entrance of the park, take bus 218 from the San Giovanni area, bus 118 from Circo Massimo, or bus 660 from Metro A stops Colli Albani/Arco di Travertino.
This tour offers the opportunity to glide along the 2300-year-old Roman road effortlessly, passing by ancient ruins and monuments. Departing from the Ancient Appian Way, you’ll journey towards the ancient Roman aqueducts rising over the fields on the horizon and follow them on their way back to Rome.
Bike Tour of the Ancient Appian Way
4 hour off-the-beaten-path guided bike tour of Rome with quality electric-assist mountain bike.
For a different kind of adventure, consider a golf cart tourof the Appian Way & Roman Catacombs. This 3-hour excursion ensures a comfortable ride aboard an electric golf cart, with stops to admire highlights like the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, the Circus and Villa of Maxentius, and the Roman catacombs.
Golf Cart Tour of the Appian Way & Roman Catacombs
Jump on a golf cart, and combine the allure of the Appian Way and the mysterious depths of the catacombs hidden in a stunning protected area.
An excursion to the Appia Antica is perfect for the tourist who is tired of being squeezed into the capital’s most-visited sites, or for the Rome resident who is looking for something fun and different.
Either way, don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water!
Marvel at Caravaggio’s, Bernini’s and Raphael’s works at Rome’s Galleria Borghese.
When in Rome you should definitely visit the Borghese Gallery, with its impressive collection of art, defined as “the most beautiful collection in the world“.
The museum, housed in Villa Borghese, is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 7pm. Booking is mandatory.
Built in 1613 by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, the Borghese Gallery houses the private collection of the Cardinal, who had a marvellous collection of precious works of art, both ancient and modern. The Cardinal’s private collection was created starting in 1607, who initiated a systematic acquisition of artworks, making it one of the largest ones at the time.
The first collection was made up of paintings by Caravaggio, Raphael and Titian while the collection of ancient sculptures, another fundamental element capable of giving an aura of ideal universality to the artistic collections, had been constantly enriched. Inside the gallery, you will find a substantial part of the Borghese collection of paintings, sculptures and antiquities.
Paolina Borghese as Venus Victrix, Antonio Canova
Galleria Borghese Highlights
Scipione Borghese was an early patron of Bernini and an avid collector of works by Caravaggio. He was particularly interested in antique sculptures, but was also driven enough to patronise modern artists and was commissioned work by Caravaggio, Bernini, Domenichino and Rubens.
Daphne and Apollo, Bernini
Walking inside the Borghese Gallery is a unique once-in-a-lifetime journey into the world of some of the most universal artists of all time, including Bernini’s most famous masterpieces:
Aeneas, Anchises and Ascanius
Rape of Proserpina
David
Apollo and Daphne
Truth revealed by Time
Self portrait as Young Man
Self portrait at a Mature Age
Bust of Cardinale Scipione Borghese
As you move from one section to the other, marvel at Bernini’s details. A particular artwork to set your eyes on is Ratto di Proserpina, where the hands of the God touching Proserpina’s skin actually seem as if they are sinking into her flesh.
Saint Jerome, CaravaggioRatto di Proserpina, G. L. Bernini, copyright Ministero dei Beni e delle Attività Culturali e del Turismo – Galleria Borghese
The Borghese Gallery also hosts Rome’s largest collection of Caravaggio works, including David with the Head of Goliath, Madonna and Child with Saint Anne (Madonna dei Palafrenieri), Saint Jerome and the Boy with basket of fruit.
Apart from being exceptional for its splendid collection (including masterpieces by Antonio Canova, Titian, Brueghel, Raphael and many others), the Galleria Borghese is perfect in the coherence of its decorative ensemble that implies antique marbles, inlays, mosaics, stuccoes and inserts.
The Borghese Gallery regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that dialogue with its permanent collection, often pairing old masters with contemporary art. Among the most talked-about in recent years were Damien Hirst’s Archaeology Now in 2021, which placed more than 80 of the British artist’s works among the ancient sculptures, and Guido Reni a Roma. Danza e paesaggio, which followed that winter and explored the birth of landscape painting in the early 17th century. Check our guide to the current exhibitions in Rome to see what’s on at the gallery during your visit.
Borghese Gallery tickets, hours and booking
The Borghese Gallery works differently from most Roman museums, and it catches many visitors out. Booking is mandatory for every ticket, including free ones, and entry runs in timed two-hour slots capped at 180 people. There is no walk-up ticket in practice: slots regularly sell out weeks, sometimes months, ahead, especially at weekends and during temporary exhibitions.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 7pm, closed Mondays. Slots start on the hour from 9am to 5pm, with a final shorter slot at 5.45pm.
Tickets: €16 plus a compulsory €2 booking fee, so €18 in total. The late slot costs less. Under 18s enter free but still pay the €2 booking fee.
Free entry: the first Sunday of the month is free, but booking is still required and those tickets are released only ten days in advance and sell out immediately.
Good to know: large bags and backpacks are not allowed, only small bags up to 21 by 15 cm, and a cloakroom is available at the entrance. A limited number of last-minute tickets is sold at the box office about 30 minutes after each slot begins, but they are never guaranteed.
How to get there: Piazzale Scipione Borghese 5, inside Villa Borghese. Metro line A to Barberini or Spagna, then a walk through the park, or bus to Pinciana/Museo Borghese.
Do you need to book the Borghese Gallery in advance?
Yes. Booking is mandatory for all tickets, including free ones, and slots often sell out weeks ahead. There is no reliable way to visit without booking.
How much are Borghese Gallery tickets?
A full ticket costs €16 plus a compulsory €2 booking fee, so €18 in total. Under 18s enter free but still pay the booking fee.
How long does a visit to the Borghese Gallery last?
Visits run in timed slots of two hours. The final slot of the day is shorter, at around an hour and a quarter.
What are the Borghese Gallery opening hours?
Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 7pm, closed Mondays, with the last entry slot at 5.45pm.
What should you not miss at the Borghese Gallery?
Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne and Rape of Proserpina, Rome’s largest collection of Caravaggio paintings, and Canova’s Paolina Borghese as Venus Victrix.
Is the Borghese Gallery worth visiting?
Yes. It holds what has been called the most beautiful private collection in the world, in a villa inside Villa Borghese park, and the two-hour cap means it never feels crowded.
Can you visit the Borghese Gallery for free?
The first Sunday of the month is free, but booking is compulsory, the €2 fee still applies and tickets are released only ten days before.
Guide to Rome’s underground sites: Rome’s Catacombs and church crypts
Beneath Rome’s streets lies a second city: catacombs, crypts, Roman houses and imperial palaces buried under centuries of building. A dozen of these underground sites are open to visitors, from the hypogeum of the Colosseum to the three layers of San Clemente, Nero’s Domus Aurea and the Roman houses under Santa Cecilia, with tickets ranging from a small donation to €26. Here are the best underground sites in Rome and how to visit them.
Love exploring Rome below the surface? Get the full Rome Google Maps Guide: every neighbourhood, landmark and local gem in one map on your phone.
Basilica of San Clemente
Via Labicana, 95 Mon-Sat, 9am-12.30pm; 2pm-6pm; Sun 12pm-6pm Entry fee: €10, reduced €5
Often overlooked by the nearby Colosseum, the Basilica of San Clemente is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit. This three-tiered complex consists of an 11th century Basilica that was built on top of the pre-existing 4th century ”domus ecclesiae” (a secretive meeting room for early Christian worshippers) of martyr San Clemente. Go deeper under the Church and you’ll find a vault from the 3rd century AD.
This Mithraic sanctuary consists of stone benches, surrounding an altar that was used during Mithraic rituals, a mystery cult of Persian origin.
Colosseum entrance from “Sperone Valadier” Open daily Entry fee: €24 (Full Experience Undergrounds and Arena ticket. Valid for 2 days from the first use, it allows one entrance to the Colosseum with access to the Undergrounds and Arena, one entrance to the Palatine Forum and SUPER Sites.)
Underneath the world’s largest amphitheatre lie the tunnels and chambers which hosted the mechanisms that made the spectacular battles of the Colosseum possible. The recently discovered hypogeum, from the Greek word for “underground”, is a labyrinth of rings that emulate the oval shape of the arena. Behind the scenes, a vertical winch called a capstan was pushed by slaves to elevate lions, crocodiles and bears into the arena. Walk in the footsteps of gladiators, with a tour group that explores the underworld of the Colosseum.
Via della Domus Aurea, 1 (Colle Oppio, near the Colosseum) Open Friday to Sunday, visits every 15 minutes from 9am to 4.30pm (last admission 3.30pm) Entry fee: €26 with guided tour and VR experience, €18 without
Nero’s Golden House is the most spectacular underground site in Rome. Built after the fire of 64 AD, this vast imperial palace once covered around 80 hectares of the city centre before Trajan buried it under his baths, which is why it survives today as a series of underground halls. Visits run only with a guided tour, and the standard ticket includes a virtual reality headset that reconstructs the palace as it looked in the 1st century, frescoed vaults, marble and all. Groups are small and slots limited, so book well in advance, especially between spring and autumn. Bring a layer: it stays cold underground all year.
Domitian Stadium – Piazza Navona Underground
Via di Tor Sanguigna, 3 Open Saturday, 10am-7pm Entry fee: €7-9
The ruins of the Domitian Stadium (declared Unesco World Heritage Site and subjected to the indirect protection of the Ministerial Decree of April 7th 1954) are located under Piazza Navona at about 5 meters below the street level. The archaeological area is all that remains of the only masonry athletics stadium known in Roman history.
Catacombs of San Callisto
Via Appia Antica, 110/126 Open 9am-12pm, 2-5pm / Closed on Wednesday Entry fee €7-10
The most famous of Rome’s catacombs stretches almost 20 km along the Appian Way and holds the crypt of 16 popes, once known as “the little Vatican”. Saint Cecilia was buried here for five centuries before her relics were moved to her basilica in Trastevere. See our full guide to the catacombs of Rome for the other sites along the Appian Way.
Via delle Sette Chiese, 282 Open Mon, Wed-Sun 9am-12pm, 2pm-5pm Entry fee: 7€-10€
The oldest burial network in the city and the only one that still holds ancient bones. Three levels of galleries reach 30 metres underground for a total length of 17 km, entered through a 4th-century sunken basilica that leads to a 2nd-century fresco of the Last Supper. More in our complete guide to Rome’s catacombs.
Palazzo Valentini’s Domus Romane
Via Foro Traiano, 85 Daily, guided tours at fixed time slots (booking required) Entry fee: €16, €9 reduced
Recent excavations under Palazzo Valentini led to the discovery of the original ancient Roman palace, 7 meters below street level. Enjoy a different underground experience, with a three-dimensional experience of the palazzo: this tour features digital projections of what Palazzo Valentini looked like at its peak.
Piazza di Santa Cecilia, 22 Open Monday to Saturday, roughly 10am to 1pm and 4 to 6pm Excavations and crypt: €2.50
Beneath the basilica of Santa Cecilia, in the heart of Trastevere, lies one of Rome’s most atmospheric and least crowded underground sites. The church was built over what tradition holds was the home of Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music, martyred in the 3rd century. Descending from the left aisle, past the gift shop, you reach the excavations: the remains of Roman houses with black-and-white mosaic floors, a lararium (a household shrine), and the ruins of an ancient bath complex. According to legend, this bathhouse was the calidarium where Cecilia survived an attempt to suffocate her with steam. At the far end sits the crypt, richly decorated in Cosmatesque style, holding the relics of the saint. Above ground, don’t miss Stefano Maderno’s moving 1600 statue of Cecilia beneath the altar, and, on weekdays, Pietro Cavallini’s 13th-century Last Judgement fresco (a separate €2.50). A perfect stop to pair with a walk through Trastevere.
Hadrian’s Crypt at Santa Maria in Cosmedin (Mouth of Truth)
Piazza Bocca della Verità, 18 Opening times for the Crypt, Mon-Sat, 10am-2pm, 3pm-5.30pm; Sun 12pm – 5.30pm Opening times for the church, Daily, 9.30am-5.50pm
Escape the long line of visitors queuing up to put their hand in The Mouth of Truth by exploring Pope Hadrian’s Crypt. The basilica shaped crypt is located underneath Santa Maria in Cosmedin Church, in Piazza Bocca della Verita. It was constructed in the 8th century to store the relics taken from the catacombs by Pope Adrian I. This small underground site is definitely worth a visit. There is no entry fee but a donation is suggested.
The Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
Via Vittorio Veneto, 27 Open daily, 9.30am-1.30pm; 2.30pm-6.30pm (last entry 12.30pm and 5.30pm) Entry fee: €10, reduced €7.50
“What you are we were; what we are you will be” is the spooky reminder of the inevitability of life that greets visitors upon entering the Crypt. By far the eeriest site in Rome, this Crypt is made up of the bones of 4,000 Capuchin monks. After visiting the convent and museum, walk towards the dimly lit hallway, where a multitude of messages are conveyed. This spooky corner of the city is the ultimate underground experience.
Via Salaria, 430 Tue – Sun 9am-1pm, 2pm-5pm Entry fee: €7-10
Known as the “regina catacumbarum”, the queen of the catacombs, this site run by an order of nuns holds the oldest known image of the Virgin Mary. A viewing point lets you look down through three levels of graves dug deeper and deeper into the earth. Reservation required.
Beneath the modern city lie layers of ancient Rome: catacombs, crypts, Roman houses, temples and imperial palaces buried as the city rebuilt itself over the centuries.
Which underground sites can you visit in Rome?
Around a dozen are open to the public, including the Colosseum hypogeum, the three levels of San Clemente, the Domus Aurea, Palazzo Valentini, the Capuchin Crypt and the catacombs along the Appian Way.
Do you need to book underground sites in Rome?
Yes for most of them. The Domus Aurea, Palazzo Valentini and the Colosseum underground have limited timed slots and sell out well in advance, while smaller crypts can usually be visited without booking.
How much do underground sites in Rome cost?
Prices range from a suggested donation at Hadrian’s Crypt and €2.50 at Santa Cecilia to €26 for the Domus Aurea with virtual reality and €24 for the Colosseum full experience.
What is the best underground site in Rome?
San Clemente is the classic choice, with three eras stacked one on top of the other, while the Domus Aurea is the most spectacular and the Capuchin Crypt the most unusual.
Which underground sites in Rome are free?
Hadrian’s Crypt at Santa Maria in Cosmedin asks only for a donation, and several church crypts charge a small fee of a few euros.
Every time you turn a corner in Rome you stumble upon another ancient temple or Renaissance masterpiece, but have you ever wondered what lies beneath your feet? Acres and acres of tombs. Rome is home to a vast underground maze of catacombs carved out of the soft volcanic tufa that surrounds the city: more than 60 burial sites in total, of which only a handful are open to visitors, with an accompanied visit included in the ticket.
The best known, San Callisto, San Sebastiano, Domitilla and Priscilla, lie along the ancient Appian Way and just outside the historic centre, and tickets cost around 8 to 10 euros.
There’s a myth that during their persecution Christians used the catacombs as a secret place to bury their dead, but in reality their location was well known. Poor Christians simply couldn’t afford a private grave, so they arranged to have their bodies carried down into these tunnels, laid out in a sarcophagus or in a shelf carved into the wall and sealed over to await the Last Judgment, or the inquisitive eyes of archaeologists.
Begun in the 2nd century AD, these burial sites were extended deeper into the earth as they filled up, one layer at a time. By the 6th century more familiar church cemeteries had taken their place, and the entrances to the catacombs were often blocked up to prevent looting.
Along the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica, 110/126) 9am-12pm, 2-5pm / Closed on Wednesday Entry fee 7-10 €
Possibly Rome’s most famous catacomb, this site extends almost 20 km and was the burial place of more than 10 martyrs and 16 popes. As the official catacombs of the Roman Church, the crypt of the popes was known as “the little Vatican” and you can still see the Greek markings “MPT” on two of them for “martyr.” You can also see burial place of Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music, buried here for five centuries until her remains were transferred to a church in Trastevere.
Along the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica, 136). 10am-5pm / Monday to Sunday Entry fee €7-10
This cemetery, named after the martyr St. Sebastian, who is buried here, was originally called “ad catacumbas”. According to the widely acknowledged explanation, the name signifies “near the hollows”, because of the mines of tuff located in this area. The name was later used generally to indicate all subterranean Christian cemeteries. The tour of this catacomb, which has second-century pagan tombs along with Christian chapels, will take you down a staircase studded with pieces of sarcophagi with imperial seals. Underneath the church, you’ll see an area with three decorated pagan tombs with some very attractive frescoes and a floor mosaic. It is believed that both Christian and pagan funerals were held in the elaborate central chapel, the vault of which has acanthus and lotus-leaf stucco decorations. The Chapel of Symbols has early Christian symbols carved in it. Up another staircase is a dining room for funeral banquets. The graffiti date back to the second century.
Via delle Sette Chiese, 282 9.30am-1.30pm; 2.30pm-6.30pm (last entry 12.30pm and 5.30pm) Entry fee 7,5-10 €
Rome’s oldest catacombs are the only ones that contain an ethereal sunken basilica through which you can enter the labyrinth below. Built in the 4th century, the basilica was abandoned in the 9th and not until 1870 was it reconstructed. You can visit the tombs of the martyrs Nereus and Achillius and gaze upon the most extensive inventory of catacomb paintings which includes an image of the Last Supper. They are also the only catacombs that still contain bones.
Via Salaria, 430 9am-12pm, 2pm-5pm / Closed on Monday Entry fee 7-10€
Run by an order of nuns, these catacombs were named after the woman who owned the land in which they were built and were known as the “regina catacumbarum” or the queen of the catacombs. They are famous for housing the oldest image of the Virgin Mary in existence. There’s also a chilling view point where you can look down and see the three levels of grave sites dug farther and farther into the earth to accommodate the dead.
Yes. The catacombs are one of the most fascinating historical sites in Rome. These underground burial networks date back to the 2nd–5th centuries and offer a unique glimpse into early Christian history. Visiting the catacombs allows you to explore ancient tunnels, frescoes, and burial chambers hidden beneath the city.
Which catacombs in Rome are the best to visit?
The most famous catacombs open to visitors include the Catacombs of San Callisto, the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, the Catacombs of Domitilla, and the Catacombs of Priscilla. Each site offers guided tours that explain the history and significance of these underground cemeteries.
Do you need a tour to visit the catacombs in Rome?
No, a private tour is not strictly necessary to visit the catacombs in Rome. Most catacombs can be accessed through guided tours organized directly at the site, which are included in the entrance ticket and usually last about 30–40 minutes. However, joining a dedicated tour is highly recommended, especially if you want to better understand the historical context of the catacombs and explore the surrounding area along the ancient Appian Way. For a more comfortable and immersive experience, a great option is the Appian Way Golf Cart Tour, which combines a visit to the Appian Way with stops at some of the most important landmarks in the area, including the catacombs. Traveling by golf cart allows you to cover more ground while learning about one of the oldest roads in Rome and the fascinating underground burial sites along it. You can check the tour here: https://www.romeing.it/shop/product/appian-way-golf-cart-tour/
How much do catacomb tickets cost?
Ticket prices typically range from about €8 to €10 for adults, depending on the catacomb. Reduced tickets are often available for children and students. It is recommended to check the official website of each catacomb for updated prices and opening hours.
Where are the catacombs located in Rome?
Most of Rome’s catacombs are located along the ancient Appian Way (Via Appia Antica), just outside the historic city center. They can be reached by bus, taxi, or guided tours departing from central Rome.
The sweltering heat isn’t the only thing rising in Rome this summer. As of July 2026, the standard Pantheon entry ticket has officially gone up from €5.00 to €7.00. It’s not going to break the bank: an extra €2.00 to preserve 2,000 years of history is a small price to pay to stand inside the ancient world’s greatest architectural marvel. Even with the price hike, the Pantheon remains the cheapest major monument to visit in the entire city.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Pantheon in 2026?
The standard Pantheon ticket price is now €7.00. Reduced tickets and free entry categories (under 18s, Rome residents, worshippers attending mass) remain in place. For full visitor information, opening hours and history, read our complete guide to visiting the Pantheon.
When Is the Pantheon Free to Visit?
If you happen to be strolling past the coffee-scented streets of Piazza della Rotonda on a Sunday, you may be in luck: like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, the Pantheon is completely free on the first Sunday of every month. Keep in mind you’ll have to queue for a physical ticket, as online booking isn’t available on free days.
On any other day, our advice is to book your Pantheon tickets online and in advance, when the piazza gets crowded, nobody wants to melt in line under the midday sun.
Absolutely. The dome of the Pantheon is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome, rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian nearly two millennia ago. Born as a pagan temple dedicated to all the Roman gods, in 609 AD it was gifted to the Pope and consecrated as a Christian church, Santa Maria ad Martyres. The hole at the top of the dome, the famous oculus, is the building’s only source of light. And for those wondering what happens when the heavens pour: yes, it rains inside! Rain, hail, storms or religious upheaval, the most fascinating thing about the Pantheon is its survival story.
Want to Get More Out of Your Visit?
A guided visit brings the Pantheon’s 2,000 years of history to life. Here are two experiences we recommend:
Why Booking a Guided Colosseum Tour Is the Smartest Choice
With around 25,000 visitors each day, the Colosseum Archaeological Park is a must-see when you’re in Rome. But how do you make the most of it? Let’s break down the best tips and tricks to avoid wasting your time, explore hidden gems, and experience the Colosseum like a pro.
How to get your Colosseum tickets
When planning a visit to the Colosseum, it’s important to know that tickets can sell out quickly, especially during the busy summer months. Tickets are released 30 days in advance, and new slots are available daily. For example, tickets for June 16 will be released on May 17. The time slot you book for the Colosseum is the only time you’ll be granted access to the monument, so it’s important to arrive on time!
Every Colosseum ticket includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. You’ll have 24/48 hours (depending on your ticket) to explore these sites (but you can only access them once), giving you plenty of time to immerse yourself in ancient Roman history. Don’t forget to bring a government-issued ID that matches your ticket; without it, you won’t be allowed entry.
The ticketing system for the Colosseum has improved a lot recently, but with so many different ticket options, it can still be a bit tricky to navigate. To make your visit as smooth as possible, it’s important to choose the right ticket. Here’s a quick breakdown of your options.
1. 24h Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Ticket
As the standard ticket, you’ll get access to the first and second tier of the Colosseum, getting incredible views of the underground areas and the arena floor. However, this one doesn’t include access to them. It is perfect for seeing the most iconic parts of the Colosseum.
What’s included:
Admission to the Colosseum at the booked time
Admission to the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area and Imperial Forum
Entry to any exhibitions in progress at the Colosseum and in the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area
2. 24h Only Arena Ticket
If you are short on time, this one is for you. You’ll enter through the Sperone Stern side, stepping onto the stage of ancient history, but don’t get access to the top tiers. This is ideal for people on a tight schedule or those who’ve already done a full tour.
What’s included:
One admission to the Arena floor only at the booked time for a duration of 20 minutes
One admission to the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area and Imperial Fora
Entry to any exhibitions that may be in progress in the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area
3. Full Experience – With Entry to the Arena of the Colosseum Ticket
Different to the standard ticket, this full experience includes access to the arena floor. Step into history and experience the heart of the Colosseum.
What’s included:
Admission to the Colosseum at the booked time
Entry to the Colosseum Arena
Admission to the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area and Imperial Fora
Entry to any exhibitions in progress at the Colosseum and in the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area
4. Full Experience – Underground Levels and Arena Ticket
For a truly 360-degree unique experience, this ticket lets you explore the hypogeum (the underground chambers where gladiators and animals waited before battle), and the arena as well!
What’s included:
Admission to the Colosseum with a permanence period of max 90 minutes
Entry to the Colosseum Arena
Entry to the Colosseum Underground levels at the booked time
Admission to the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area and Imperial Fora
Entry to any exhibitions in progress at the Colosseum and in the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area
5. Full Experience – With Entry to the Attic of the Colosseum Ticket
For stunning views of Rome, the Attico Ticket is your go-to. It gives you access to the Attic area with panoramic lift and upper-level views. From here, you’ll enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the entire arena.
What’s included:
Admission to the Colosseum
Entry to the Attic of the Colosseum at the booked time
Admission to the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area and Imperial Fora
Entry to any exhibitions in progress at the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area
7. Night Tour Ticket
If you’re looking for a magical experience, the Night Tour Ticket is usually available from May to November. It’s a unique way to explore the Colosseum under the moonlight.
Ticket prices vary depending on the experience you choose and where you buy them. To book your tickets, visit the official Colosseum website (ticketing.colosseo.it) or verified tour agencies. Getting a ticket can be challenging, especially during high-demand months. But here’s an easy solution: consider booking a guided tour.
Why Booking a Guided Tour of the Colosseum is a No-Brainer
Imagine stepping in the same footsteps as ancient Romans, gladiators, and emperors. A once-in-a-lifetime chance to immerse yourself in history. But all you see are old ruins, missing a storyteller to bring them to life.
The expertise that comes in handy with a professionally guided tour allows you to dive deep into the hidden gems that are mostly overlooked. Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum are the home of some of the most astonishing wonders of the archaeological park: the Roman Senate, the Santa Maria Antiqua Church, and the House of Livia (yes, Augustus wife). You do not want to miss out hearing the rich history of these timeless marvels.
A professional guide will point out the gems, making you see beyond the Colosseum, further exploring the heart of ancient Rome. Plus, your guide is there to offer tips on where to eat, drink, and rest, ensuring that your entire experience is smooth and memorable.
Also, let’s face it: buying tickets on your own can be a headache. From long lines to ticket availability, booking a guided tour takes the stress out of the equation. With a professional guide, you don’t have to worry about tickets, as they are taken care of for you.
Super Sites
Colosseum SUPER sites are 8 exclusive, carefully curated areas within the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill that offer enhanced, immersive experiences. Using features like lightmapping and video projections, these sites bring history to life. Some highlights include the House of Augustus, Santa Maria Antiqua, and the Domus Tiberiana.
Recently, I had the chance to visit the Colosseum Archaeological Park with a tour guide (shout out to them!), and I can honestly say it was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I’ve been living in Rome for four years and have visited the Colosseum a few times before. But this time, for the first time, I left with a deep sense of accomplishment, having learned so much about the cobblestones, columns, and frescoes I had been walking through.
Roman Forum
We began our tour of the Roman Forum at Trajan’s Column, a legendary Roman monument built in 113 AD, topped with a statue of St. Peter, the patron saint of the city. As we walked through this ancient site, we learned about how the city was once 20 meters lower than it is today due to centuries of flooding. Everything we see in the park is the result of the work of dedicated archaeologists, who have dug deep into the earth to uncover the hidden history beneath the modern Roman cobblestones. These pieces of the past are carefully unearthed and brought back to life, allowing us to connect with ancient Rome in ways we never thought possible.
As we made our way to Via Sacra, we heard the legendary stories of the Temple of Saturn and the House of the Vestal Virgins, the sacred residence where six young virgins were entrusted with maintaining the eternal fire of the Roman Empire.
Palatine Hill
At the foot of Palatine Hill, we entered the Church of Santa Maria Antica, home to some of the most beautiful frescoes that offer a glimpse into early Christianity in ancient Rome. The walls of the sanctuary are adorned with vibrant depictions of the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus, as well as saints and martyrs.
Continuing through, we reached a luxurious Roman domus (house) and then ascended to the Palatine Hill. This spot offers the most breathtaking panoramic view in Rome, overlooking the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and the Vittoriano Monument. Palatine Hill is not only a place of beauty but also of romance. One of its most famous features is the Farnese Gardens, a stunning historical garden with a rich past that’s definitely worth visiting. The tranquil beauty and significance of this garden make it a must-see, offering a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Colosseum
We wrapped up our tour at the Colosseum, where we had arena tickets, allowing us to access the heart of the structure first. Walking through the arena felt like stepping into a scene from a gladiator movie. Entering this majestic monument, one of the new 7 Wonders of the World, was an awe-inspiring moment. The entrance was smooth and quick, and our guide gave us a detailed explanation of the fascinating history of the animals, heroes, anti-heroes, slaves, and gladiators who once took center stage here. We learned about the Romans who filled the stands to watch these spectacular and brutal events, and even more intriguing to me, what happened to the Colosseum after the Roman Empire was gone. We then made our way to the second tier for a better view, where our guide continued to share the rich and sometimes tragic history of this mystical place
The tour concluded with a sense of awe, ready to unwind with a well-deserved Aperol Spritz.
Here are some extra essential tips to make your experience smoother, more enjoyable, and stress-free!
1. Beat the Heat: The park is vast, so wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and don’t forget sunscreen. Avoid Midday Sun. Summer midday heat can be brutal. It’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. There are 8 water fountains around the park, so bring your bottle and stay hydrated. No need to buy overpriced water!
2. Skip the Crowds (But Not the Lines!): First Sundays of the month, entrance is free, but it’s chaotic. The Colosseum gets packed, and it’s tough to explore peacefully. Colosseum tickets have a specific time slot for entry. Once you’re in, you can stay max 75 to 90 min. So be mindful of your time! You can visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill at your leisure, but you can only enter once. Groups and individuals have separate entrances, but there’s no “skip the line” except for buying tickets on-site.
3. Bathroom Breaks: There are only 5 bathrooms in the entire park: one at the Colosseum, one at Palatine Hill, and the rest spread through the Forum. Plan ahead!
4. Get the Best Path: Guides offer the best routes to navigate the Forum and Colosseum. For maximum flexibility, consider booking a private tour.
5. Accessibility: The Roman Forum is tough to navigate for wheelchair users. However, inside the Colosseum and at some points of the Roman Forum, there’s an elevator for easier access. Visiting can be physically demanding, so it may not be the best experience for pregnant women. We recommend booking a private tour to enhance comfort and make your visit more enjoyable.
6. Snacks and Drinks: There are vending machines at Palatine Hill and the Colosseum, so you can grab a quick snack or drink during your tour.
Where to Go Once You’ve Conquered the Colosseum
Wondering where to go after exploring the heart of ancient Rome? Let us guide you to Monti, the charming neighborhood just steps from the Colosseum. Here, you’ll find the perfect spots to unwind with a bite or a drink, wrapping up your Colosseum adventure in the best way possible!
What to See in Prati, Rome: The Best Places to Visit
Prati is often associated with elegant streets, shopping, and its proximity to the Vatican, but the neighborhood offers much more than its polished first impression suggests. With its wide avenues, Art Nouveau details, local markets, monumental squares and riverside views, this district is one of Rome’s most pleasant areas to explore on foot.
The best way to discover Prati is to start around Piazza Cavour and the riverside, continue along Via Cola di Rienzo, then move toward the Vatican side for Mercato Trionfale and the Passeggiata del Gelsomino. Along the way, make sure to leave time for a coffee, aperitivo or lunch, as this is one of the best neighbourhoods in Rome for experiencing the city at a slower, more local pace.
From hidden churches and historic markets to panoramic walks and postcard-perfect bridges, here are the must-sees around Prati.
Via Cola di Rienzo
Via Cola di Rienzo is Prati’s main shopping street and one of the best alternatives to the busier Via del Corso. Wide, elegant and easy to walk, it is lined with well-known fashion and lifestyle brands, Italian boutiques, cafés and restaurants. It is also one of the best places to understand the neighbourhood’s everyday rhythm: refined, local, and less chaotic than the historic centre.
Mercato Trionfale
Via Andrea Doria, 41
A short walk north from the Vatican Museums, Mercato Trionfale is one of Rome’s largest and most authentic food markets. With hundreds of stalls selling fruit, vegetables, cheese, meat, fish, fresh pasta and Roman specialties, it is the perfect place to see local life in action. Go in the morning, when the market is at its liveliest, and take your time wandering between the stalls.
Facing the Tiber, the Chiesa del Sacro Cuore del Suffragio is one of Prati’s most curious landmarks. With its white, neo-Gothic façade, it bears striking resemblance to the Duomo di Milano, giving it the nickname of Rome’s “little Milan Cathedral”. In addition to its grand columns and vast chapel, inside the church is also home to the small Museum of the Souls of Purgatory, a peculiar and little-known collection that adds to the church’s mysterious charm.
Technically just outside Prati, Castel Sant’Angelo is impossible to leave out. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, it later became a fortress, papal residence and prison. Today, it is one of Rome’s most fascinating monuments, with panoramic terraces offering beautiful views over the Tiber, St. Peter’s Basilica and the rooftops of the city. Go early in the morning to skip the crowds, or go an hour and a half before closing at 18:00 to see the sun begin to set over the city.
Leading directly to Castel Sant’Angelo, Ponte Sant’Angelo is one of the most scenic bridges in Rome. Lined with angel statues designed by Bernini and his workshop, it is especially beautiful at sunset, when the light falls over the river and the dome of St. Peter’s appears in the background. It is one of the best photo spots between Prati and the historic centre.
Piazza Cavour
At the heart of Prati’s institutional side, near Sant’Angelo, Piazza Cavour is dominated by the monumental Palazzo di Giustizia, known by Romans as the “Palazzaccio”. The square itself is spacious and elegant, with gardens, cafés and a more local atmosphere than many of Rome’s central piazzas. It is a good starting point for exploring both Prati and the riverside.
Chiesa di San Gioacchino in Prati
Via Pompeo Magno, 25
Often overlooked, the Chiesa di San Gioacchino in Prati is one of the neighbourhood’s most distinctive churches. Built at the end of the 19th century, it stands out for its large dome and richly decorated interior. It is worth stepping inside if you are nearby, especially for those interested in lesser-known religious architecture in Rome.
Passeggiata del Gelsomino
St. Peter’s Station / Via della Stazione Vaticana
One of the area’s most surprising walks, the Passeggiata del Gelsomino follows a former railway path near the Vatican. Quiet and scenic, it offers unique views of St. Peter’s dome from a different perspective. It is a short but memorable detour, especially if you want to escape the crowds and discover a more hidden corner of the city.
Campo de’ Fiori may be one of Rome’s most famous squares, but there’s much more to discover just beyond its market stalls and lively cafés. The surrounding streets are filled with elegant palaces, quiet churches, Renaissance architecture, artisan boutiques, and hidden courtyards that reveal the true character of this historic neighborhood. Here are some of the best things to see around Campo de’ Fiori.
Arco degli Acetari
Via del Pellegrino, 19
Within this tiny courtyard steps away from the bustling Campo, time seems to stand still. Arco degli Acetari is a peek into the medieval period of Rome, where external staircases and warm ochres fill the senses of a time long forgotten. Underneath laundry on clotheslines and blooming trees, the arco is a quiet place of refuge for those who seek it (but beware, residents still live within the buildings!)
Set in the former Chiesa di Santa Maria di Grotta Pinta, the Cappella Orsini is a cultural production center that supports independent creative projects through exhibitions, installations, and more. The aim of the Living Museum is to foster cross-cultural exchange and create a space where new ideas can blossom freely.
Chiesa Santa Barbara dei Librai
Largo dei Librari, 85 Open daily, 9am-12pm, 4pm-6pm
Nestled at the back of a small piazza off Via dei Giubbonari lies this little gem of a chiesa. Though it was consecrated in the 14th century, some believe the church may have been built centuries earlier. Once part of the ruins of the ancient Teatro Pompeo, Chiesa Santa Barbara is home to a 15th century triptych by Leonardo da Roma.
A staple since 1869, the iconic Campo market opens its canopies every morning to welcome visitors in search of local produce – think puntarelle, scarole and broccoletti –, meats and cheeses, and fresh flowers. Set in one of Rome’s most recognizable piazzas, the mercato offers a colorful snapshot of everyday Roman life; it is just as much about the spectacle as it is the shopping, with vendors calling out and locals haggling over prices.
The Palazzo Farnese, now the French Embassy in Rome, is an example of high Renaissance architecture. Alessandro Farnese – the Cardinal at the time – commissioned its construction in 1514, with later expansion upon his papacy as Pope Paul III. The inside, with frescoed ceilings by Carracci and Zuccari, can be visited by guided tourpurchased exclusively through their website.
Piazza Capo di Ferro, 13 Mon-Sun 8.30am-7.30pm; Tues Closed Entry fee €6
The palazzo, purchased by Cardinal Bernardino Spada (1594-1661) in 1632 is perhaps best known for Francesco Borromini’s infamous trompe l’oeil (forced perspective) near the courtyard’s entrance. The artistic collection houses 16th and 17th century pieces by artists such as Reni, Gentileschi, Baccicio, and the Caravaggisti.
Commissioned by Pope Julius II and executed by Bramante, this long street runs from Ponte Sisto to the church of San Giovanni dei Fiorentini. Built during the reorganization of Rome’s older medieval plan. Via Giulia today is lined with artisan shops and vintage boutiques. Quiet and shadowy, it is the perfect place for a romantic stroll, no matter the season.
Via Giulia, 262 Open by appointment only For the visits please contact the Amici del Tevere association
Santa Maria dell’Orazione e Morte is one of Via Giulia’s most unusual churches, a Baroque monument to mortality once linked to a confraternity that buried Rome’s abandoned dead. Its skull-decorated façade and haunting underground ossuary make it one of the city’s most fascinating hidden sights.
Experience Nero’s Golden House as it looked back in the day
From the outside, Rome’s Oppian Hill is unassuming, home to a humble public park which is easily outshone by its neighbor, the Colosseum. But what lies beneath it is one of the Eternal City’s greatest treasures: the Domus Aurea.
History of the Domus Aurea
In 64 AD much of the centre of Rome was destroyed by an enormous fire. While there remains some discussion on whether Nero himself caused the fire, it is certain that it gave him the opportunity to build a huge new residence: the Domus Aurea, also known as ‘’The Golden House’’.
The entire complex occupied a space almost 25 times as big as the Colosseum—the opulent imperial residence sprawled from the Palatine Hill to the Colle Oppio and Caelius Mountain, spanning one square mile.
At its peak, the Domus boasted gardens, woods, and even artificial lake on the spot where you can find the Colosseum today. Statues hailing from Greece and Asia Minor adorned its rooms; gold and marble quarried from Egypt and the Middle East covered walls and vaulted ceilings; and even a grandiose, octagonal chamber with a domed roof graced the grounds, built sixty years before the completion of the Pantheon. Some of the dining rooms had mechanisms in the ceilings through which petals or perfume descended onto the dinners.
The Golden House: a hidden beauty
Following Nero’s death in 68, his successors wanted to distance themselves from the former emperor and his palace, and tried to erase every trace of it. The palace was stripped of all its luxury and treasures, after which the rooms were filled with earth and levelled to serve as a building ground for the Baths of Titus and later also for the Baths of Trajan. On the site of the lake the Colosseum was built.
Nero’s sumptuous quarters themselves were forgotten for the next 1,400 year, until late in the 15th century, when a Roman boy fell through a hole on the Oppian Hill and he saw a glimpse of painted figures.
Soon after, a host of adventurers and legendary artists of the Renaissance, Raphael among them, made pilgrimages to the site, studying and later recreating the Domus’s motifs and designs (called ‘grotesques’) in their own work. The paintings were highly influential and ‘Grotesque painting’ is still an existing term for Roman wall decoration (as well as carpets and furniture motifs), much seen in the 16th century.
Fast forward to the present century: after extensive renovation, the palace finally opened its gates to visitors in 2014. Although there are still excavations and construction work going on, the place is open for visitors during the weekends when guided tours are organized.
When in Rome, this fascinating tour is highly recommended. The guides take you along the large and incredibly high rooms where some frescoes can be seen, and they tell you all about the history and architecture of the Domus Aurea. On weekends, there is even a Virtual Reality experience included in the tour–with the aid of visual headsets, the 3D, multimedia experience provides a glimpse into how the Domus looked in its heyday. The Volta Dorata Hall and the exterior bordering the gardens are the focus of the guided walks, which must be booked in advance.
A tour through the Domus Aurea offers a unique experience in Rome. Inside the Domus, the temperature is around 10 degrees Celsius, so we recommend wearing appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. Please note that admission is only granted with a guided tour, and reservations are essential.
This 15th century palazzo came into the possession of the Altemps family in 1568 and houses a collection of Greek and Roman art, as well as a small section of Egyptian art.
The collection of the Galleria Borghese, which was defined as "the most beautiful collection in the world", is still collected in the place that was created and designed for that collection - the Borghese Gallery.
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