7 Smart Ways to See the Colosseum Without the Crowds
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7 Smart Ways to See the Colosseum Without the Crowds
Visiting the Colosseum is on nearly every Rome itinerary, and for good reason. It's one of the most impressive and iconic landmarks in the world. But here's the thing: it's also one of the busiest. Fortunately, there are ways to beat the rush. In this post, we're sharing 7 smart Colosseum tips to help you have a smoother, less crowded visit.
Whether you're a first-timer or returning to Rome, these Colosseum tips will help you make the most of your experience. For more curated Rome recommendations, check out our JAM Travel Rome Guide or browse all of our city guides here.
1. Book a Skip-the-Line Tour
This is the easiest way to avoid waiting. Look for guided tours that include skip-the-line access. Not only do you breeze past the long queues, but you also get context that makes the ruins come alive. It’s the difference between “some old rocks” and “this used to be a VIP section in Ancient Rome.” We recommend trusted options from our Viator shop, especially ones that include the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. It’s one of our top Colosseum tips.
2. Arrive First Thing in the Morning
The Colosseum opens at 8:30 a.m. Arrive by 8:00 to be near the front of the line. It’s worth the early wake-up call. Mornings are cooler, less crowded, and better for photos with fewer people around. (And if you’re traveling in summer, the earlier the better—Rome doesn’t mess around with midday heat.)
3. Avoid the First Sunday of the Month
Yes, it’s free. But it’s also packed. The Italian Ministry of Culture offers free entry on the first Sunday of each month, which brings in massive crowds. If you’re on a budget, go for it—but don’t expect a peaceful visit. Our take? Pay the entry fee on another day and skip the chaos.
4. Visit in the Shoulder Season
Timing your trip is key. April, May, September, and October offer a great balance of good weather and smaller crowds. Avoid July and August if you can. Not only is it hot, but summer is peak tourist season. Shoulder season also means shorter lines at restaurants and less stress all around. (Pro tip: always pack a light layer. Rome’s mornings can surprise you.)
5. Consider a Night Tour
Few people know this, but the Colosseum offers night tours during certain times of year. Seeing it under the stars is a magical experience. Plus, it’s far less busy. These special-access tours often include the underground level too. Bonus: it's way cooler at night—both in temperature and vibe. This is one of those Colosseum tips most guidebooks miss.
6. Explore the Upper Levels
Most standard tickets don’t include access to the top tiers, but some guided tours do. These levels offer a quieter vantage point with incredible views over the arena and Rome beyond. It’s a great way to escape the ground-level crowds and get a feel for just how massive this place is. You’ll also snag some of the best photos of your whole trip.
7. Don’t Skip the Forum and Palatine Hill
These two sites are included with your Colosseum ticket. Many visitors either skip them or rush through. But they’re just as fascinating and usually less crowded. Palatine Hill, especially, feels like a peaceful escape from the main drag—green, sprawling, and full of ruins to wander. Pack water, wear comfortable shoes, and give yourself time to explore.
Bonus Tip: Download an Audio Guide or App
If you're not doing a guided tour, download a reliable audio guide or Colosseum app. It makes the visit more meaningful and helps you understand what you're seeing. Rick Steves and other reputable travel apps offer downloadable guides that work offline. Consider this your personal ancient Roman narrator.
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We’ve done the work, so you can enjoy your trip—and maybe even impress your travel companions with a few fun facts.
We’ve done the work, so you can enjoy your trip—and maybe even impress your travel companions with a few fun facts. And if Rome isn’t your only stop, browse our curated guides for Florence, Lake Como and Milan, London, Paris, Istanbul, and Amsterdam. Each one is packed with trusted recommendations and local favorites.
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Happy travels—and don’t forget to look up at the arches once you’re inside. The scale of it never gets old. (Neither do our jokes, apparently.)