Hotels near Colosseum

The Colosseum tops every list of things to do in Rome and remains the largest amphitheatre ever built. Inaugurated in 80 AD by Emperor Titus, the Flavian Amphitheatre once seated up to 50,000 spectators for gladiator games, mock naval battles, and public executions over nearly 400 years of use. Its tiered limestone arches, hypogeum tunnels, and partially restored arena floor are among the most recognisable images of antiquity.

Visit early on a timed-entry ticket and you avoid the worst of the queues; the standard combined ticket includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, both within a five-minute walk. Splurge on the Full Experience ticket if you want access to the underground hypogeum and upper tiers. The Colosseum was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 and a New Seven Wonder of the World in 2007.

Pro Tip: Book the first 8:30 AM entry slot and head straight to the underground hypogeum - the early tour groups stay small and the morning light through the arches is unbeatable for photography.