Colosseum Tickets
Explore official Colosseum ticket options, skip-the-line tickets, and current prices. Learn everything you need to know about visiting the Colosseum, compare ticket types, and book last-minute deals online.
Areas You Can Access
Hover over each level to see what's included with your ticket
Compare Ticket Access Areas
While some tickets labelled “Full Experience” include several of these areas, no single ticket covers all of them. Pick the ticket that aligns best with your interests, but remember availability can vary. All tickets include access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. They do not include Domus Aurea, which uses a separate Parco archeologico del Colosseo ticket near the Colosseum.
| Basic Ticket | Arena Only | Full Experience with Attic | Full Experience with Arena | Full Experience with Arena + Underground | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levels 1 and 2 | |||||
| Arena | |||||
| Attic | |||||
| Underground | |||||
| Roman Forum and Palatine |
Types of Tickets
There are five major ticket types you can buy through the official channels. No single ticket includes every area, even those named “Full Experience”, so choose what you most want to see — or whichever ticket you are lucky enough to get, since all of them sell in limited numbers. All tickets include access to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.
Last Minute Offers
Sold Out Online? Grab a Last-Minute Ticket! If your chosen date is fully booked, don’t worry! Find available slots from official resellers and explore the Colosseum’s Arena, underground, and upper levels with a guided tour.
Full Experience with Arena and Underground
Access the Arena floor, underground areas, and levels one and two with a two-day pass. Includes a guided underground tour and restricted sections, offering more insight into the Colosseum’s history than basic tickets.
Almost sold out
Full Experience with Arena
Get access to the Arena floor and levels one and two with a two-day pass. Stand on the Arena floor for a gladiator’s view of the amphitheater. An elevated experience over basic tickets’ general entry.
Likely to sell out
Full Experience with Attic
Enjoy rare access to the attic levels with stunning views of the Colosseum and beyond. Also covers levels one and two with a two-day pass. Ideal for history lovers seeking unique areas unavailable with basic tickets.
Likely to sell out Arena Only
Focus on the Arena floor for a unique perspective of the Colosseum’s center. While underground and attic access aren’t included, this offers a chance to walk where gladiators once stood, providing more than basic tickets.
Likely to sell out
Basic Ticket
Includes access to levels one and two of the Colosseum, plus the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Excludes Arena floor, underground, and attic access. A simple, affordable way to see the Colosseum’s main attractions.
What To Do If Tickets Sold Out
If tickets to the Colosseum are sold out on the official website, don’t worry — there are still ways to secure access. Here are some tips to help you visit this iconic landmark:
- Book a guided tour: many guided tours include Colosseum tickets in the package, often with premium areas like the Arena floor, underground, or attic, plus expert commentary on the Colosseum’s history.
- Try the morning box-office release: each morning the Colosseum’s ticket office releases a limited number of same-day tickets. Arriving early to queue increases your chance of securing afternoon entry.
- Consider alternative entry times: if morning slots are full, you may still be able to book an afternoon visit. Flexibility with your schedule can surface opportunities others miss.
Discounts & Free Entry
The Colosseum offers reduced and free tickets to specific groups. Discounts apply to the entrance ticket only — guided tours and skip-the-line services are charged separately.
- EU citizens aged 18–25: a reduced entrance ticket (a few euro) on proof of ID.
- Under 18 (all nationalities): free entry — but a free timed reservation is still required, and under-18s must be accompanied.
- EU teachers and certain professionals: reduced or free entry with valid documentation.
- First Sunday of the month: free entry for everyone, but expect very large crowds and no guaranteed time slot.
Free and reduced tickets are issued by the official ticketing system; resellers and guided tours set their own pricing. Always carry ID matching your ticket category.
When Are New Tickets Released?
Official Colosseum tickets are released on a rolling window — typically about 30 days in advance. New inventory is published daily, around midnight Rome time (CET/CEST), so if your date is sold out it is worth checking again just after midnight. A limited number of same-day tickets is also released each morning at the on-site box office. Because slots sell out within minutes in peak season, booking as early as possible — or using a skip-the-line option — is the most reliable way to secure entry. See the best time to visit for seasonal demand.
Can You Buy Tickets at the Colosseum?
Yes, there is an on-site box office opposite the main entrance, but it is the least reliable option. Same-day allocations are small and frequently sell out early in the morning, and queues can run 60–90 minutes in high season. Tickets cost the same official price whether you buy online or in person — there is no saving at the door, only a higher risk of no availability. For a guaranteed time slot, pre-book online before you travel.
How to Buy Colosseum Tickets: Common Visitor Questions
What are the different Colosseum ticket types?
There are five practical booking categories: Basic Entry for levels 1-2, Arena Floor access, Attic or upper-floor access, Underground and Arena guided access, and flexible skip-the-line audio entry. Every option also connects the Colosseum visit with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill route.
Where can I buy Colosseum tickets?
You can buy Colosseum tickets on the official Colosseum ticketing website, at the on-site ticket office, or through trusted official resellers online. Buying in advance is highly recommended, as tickets often sell out, especially during peak season.
How much do Colosseum tickets cost?
Colosseum ticket prices start at €18 for a basic ticket. Prices may increase for tickets that include access to special areas like the Arena, Underground, or Attic. Discounted rates are available for EU citizens aged 18–25, and children under 18 enter free.
Which Colosseum ticket should I buy?
Choose your Colosseum ticket based on the areas you want to visit. The basic ticket includes the Colosseum’s main levels, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. "Full Experience" tickets grant access to the Arena, Underground, or Attic. Guided tours are ideal if you want expert commentary and access to restricted areas.
When do Colosseum tickets go on sale?
Colosseum tickets typically go on sale about 30 days in advance of the visit date. New tickets are released daily, usually at midnight local time (Rome). For the best availability, book as soon as sales open for your preferred date.
Can I buy Colosseum tickets at the ticket office in Rome?
Yes, you can buy tickets at the official Colosseum ticket office, located across from the main entrance. However, same-day tickets are limited and often sell out quickly, so it is strongly recommended that you buy online in advance.
What should I do if Colosseum tickets are sold out?
If official Colosseum tickets are sold out, look for guided tours from official partners, as these often include entry. You can also try for last-minute tickets released each morning at the box office or check trusted resellers online for available dates.
Are skip-the-line or last-minute Colosseum tickets available?
Skip-the-line and last-minute Colosseum tickets are available from official resellers and tour providers. These tickets may include guided tours or special access. Be cautious of unofficial sellers to avoid scams.