Planning to visit Rome but not sure if you should visit the Colosseum at night?
Well, let me tell you that you should 1000% visit the Colosseum in the evening and book one of these epic Colosseum night tours to do so.
Trust me, I have been to Rome tons of times and have explored the Colosseum by day and night numerous times.
And honestly? The Colosseum at night time is WAY better. After all:
- The crowds are gone
- The Colosseum is stunning by moonlight
- You don’t have to deal with the insane heat of the sun
- You get access to areas that are restricted to visitors during the day
- You get skip-the-line access
Umm…need I say more?
The only slight downside is that you need to book one of the best Colosseum at night tours asap to visit this landmark in the evening.
Yeah, people aren’t allowed to freely wander around the Colosseum after it has officially closed.
Therefore, use this ultra-handy guide to pick out an ultra-rad Colosseum evening tour that is perfect for you.
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Want the best Colosseum at night tour? 🌙 Then book this tour! It’s my top pick since it’s well-priced/well-reviewed, and brings you to the Roman Forum/Trajan’s Column too! 🇮🇹
Best Colosseum Night Tours
1. Exclusive After Dark Colosseum at Night Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (159 Reviews) Price: $217.48 per person Duration: 1-2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Colosseo, Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM, Italy Details: Read more on Viator Now!
Wanna walk in the footsteps of gladiators without getting elbowed in the face by other tourists?
Or, want photos without ten thousand other people holding selfie sticks in the background?
If so then this Exclusive After-dark Tour of the Colosseum at Night has your name on it.
Now, this 1/2-hour tour is fully inclusive of a visit to the underground area and the arena floor.
So, as you partake in this access all-areas Colosseum tour, your guide will enthrall, delight, and shock you with historical tales that you have never heard before (shout out to Eni who was a fabulous guide).
Furthermore, this is one of the best night tours of the Colosseum if you’re looking for an intimate vibe.
See, group sizes do not exceed 15. And when I did it I was actually the only one there so it felt like a private Colosseum underground night tour.
“Excellent tour guide. Paulo and Ali were outstanding. Very knowledgeable, and went beyond expectations to make our tour a personable and memorable experience.”
Edgar (read more reviews now)
But, despite the tour’s compact size, you’ll still receive a headset to ensure that you don’t miss a thing when it comes to the expert commentary.
Therefore, you can wander around at will and not miss out on all the epic info (and jokes) your tour guide has to offer.
What also makes this Colosseum night tour stand out is the fact that you’ll swing by one of Rome’s seven hills, the Capitoline. Yeah, a lot of the other tours just don’t do this.
Overall, it’s a really fun time as you get to learn about Rome’s storied past – an experience that is rounded off by the sheer thrill of seeing the amphitheater at night.
Pro Tip: My guide was super lovely and humored me with the absurd number of photo stops I requested.
Just remember that while the Colosseum is a lot less crowded at night, there is also a lot less light. So, brush up on your nighttime photo skills before you visit.
| Pros | Cons |
| Full access to the Colosseum | One of the more expensive Colosseum night tours |
| Can book as a solo traveler | Tour provider sometimes encounters organizational hiccups |
| Group size is capped at 15 participants | |
| Headsets are provided | |
| Available in English and Italian – in case you’re learning the lingo! |
2. VIP Colosseum Under the Moon with Underground and Arena Access
⭐️ Rating: 3.5/5.0 (126 Reviews) Price: $119.12 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Via del Colosseo, 24 Details: Read more on Viator Now!
Now, what about experiencing the Colosseum in the evening like an emperor?
Well, if that scenario sounds mighty appealing to you then you might want to don your finest tunic and snap up a spot on this VIP Colosseum Under the Moon tour.
See, this package is inclusive of a stop at the arena floor, the underground dungeons, and the upper tier of the ancient amphitheater.
Plus, there’s no waiting in line with the plebs thanks to your skip-the-line entry.
Now, as you enjoy this Colosseum night time tour, your expert guide will give you the inside scoop on the rich and varied history of this incredible venue.
“It was amazing. The tour guy was very knowledgeable and nice. When the tour time changed. They emails and called to make sure I was aware. Then there was another guide inside the colosseum that gave all same info as our tour guide. So I could have saved money booing directly to the colosseum. But it was amazing.”
Claudia (read more reviews now)
Plus, the audio will be crystal clear since you’ll receive a handy headset.
FYI, questions are warmly encouraged.
On top of an already epic tour, this excursion includes a glass of Italian prosecco during your mega epic outing.
After all it’s thirsty work trying to clamber around Rome’s greatest treasure.
Sadly, though, there are no chariots provided to tow you down the avenue.
But, this is still one of the best Colosseum at night tours if you’re looking to live the luxe life for a hot minute.
| Pros | Cons |
| Includes full access to the arena floor, second level, and tunnels | The meeting location is a little tricky to find – allow ample time |
| A glass of prosecco is served during the tour | Issues with getting reimbursed after the tour was canceled. |
| Small group size with headsets provided | Problem with delays so the tour sometimes ends VERY late |
| Solo travelers are welcome to book |
3. Colosseum of Rome with Arena Floor Evening Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (797 Reviews) Price: $86.34 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Trajan’s Column, Via dei Fori Imperiali, 00187 Roma RM Operator: City Wanders Ltd. Details: Read more on Viator Now!
Now, this Colosseum with Arena Floor Evening Tour differs slightly from the other excursions on this list.
Because this pick for the best night tour of the Colosseum starts right after standard operating hours end.
So, subject to the time of year, you should expect to be in the belly of the Colosseum around dusk/sunset.
But, as with the others, this Colosseum night tour is quieter since all of the daytime visitors will be gone.
Additionally, this package includes skip-the-line access to the arena floor.
It’s also worth noting that there are select times when you can upgrade your tour to include underground access. But, this only applies to specific dates.
“MJ is an excellent guide. She is very well versed in the history of the colosseum. She told us some fascinating history. The colosseum is at its very best in the evening. Having the chance to be there under the glow of the setting sun was a real highlight of our visit to Rome.”
Sarah (read more reviews now)
By the by, the meeting point is Trajan’s Column. Therefore, you get an exciting build-up to the star attraction as you saunter down the Via dei Fori Imperiali.
In fact, the tour includes a stop near the Roman Forum where you’ll get a crazy view of the very spot that birthed the Empire.
Ultimately, this tour is an awesome choice if you’re looking for a wider perspective on Roman history.
| Pros | Cons |
| Access to the Colosseum arena floor | Roman Forum is a pass-by only |
| Professional guide | Headsets are not available |
| An earlier start makes this one of the best Colosseum at night tours with kids | No access to the underground tunnels in the standard tour |
| One of the cheapest tours | |
| Solo travelers may book a place |
4. Guided Colosseum at Night Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5.0 (106 Reviews) Price: $84.92 per person Duration: 70-75 minutes 📍Meeting Point: In front of the Colosseum Metro Station Operator: Discover Rome Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Step into the sandals of a gladiator during this Guided Colosseum at Night Tour.
Now, this tour begins with a rendezvous at the Colosseo Metro Station.
Then, it’s onwards to the mighty landmark where you’ll breeze through the ticket office with your skip-the-line privileges as you make the most of your 2 day Rome itinerary.
First up, you’ll wander through the tunnels, chambers, and pits that form the underground area.
FYI, very few tourists can visit the subterranean layer with a daytime ticket, making this Colosseum evening tour infinitely superior.
Plus, you’ll zoom in on the elevators beneath the arena floor.
Yeah, did you know the Colosseum actually comes fully equipped with a super swanky system of lifts and trapdoors?
“Amazing tour, very nice guide, lot of fun information. And an evening tour means not crowded and not too hot, enough time to look around and enjoy the whole experience of the Colosseum. I can only recommend choosing the evening tour with Discover Rome Tours, absolutely amazing.”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
Well, now you do! And this Colosseum night time tour will explain exactly what these were used for!
At the same time, you’ll discover how masterful Roman engineers really were.
Of course, the visit culminates with a walk across the arena beneath a blanket of glistening stars.
Plus, at 70-80 minutes long, this is a slightly shorter Colosseum night tour and there are usually a couple of different time slots available for you to choose from if you have a busy schedule.
| Pros | Cons |
| One of the cheapest Colosseum night tours | Limited availability |
| Includes access to the arena floor and underground system | Headsets not offered |
| A shorter tour will suit a jam-packed schedule | This shorter tour may feel a little rushed |
| Requires a minimum 1 pax to make a booking |
5. Rome Colosseum at Night with Underground and Arena Floor Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (330 Reviews) Price: $70.30 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Via del Colosseo 244 Operator: Italy With Family Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Not gonna lie, this is easily one of the top-rated Colosseum night tours of them all.
See, this activity includes a wicked awesome visit to the reconstructed arena floor and the underground dungeons too.
Essentially, the tour commences in the grandstands. There, your knowledgeable local guide will give the lowdown on the history and past uses of the gigantic amphitheater.
Next, you will head belowground and roam the tunnels during the best Colosseum night tour around.
FYI, this is a super-restricted part of the attraction. It’s where the gladiators (and poor animals) were held ahead of entering the area.
“Fantastic tour – one of the highlights in Rome! The tour is a small group of 15-20 people. It starts out with a local guide taking you to various parts surrounding the outside of the Colosseum while providing history/stories for about 45 mins. They will then drop you at the entrance of the Colosseum and another guide will take you underground and to arena floor. Both guides were incredible and we were entertained and engaged the entire time! Highly recommend – this was way better than visiting the Colosseum during the day. Much better for photos without the crowds with great insights to the history of Rome.”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
So, if you don’t visit the Colosseum at night then you’re not gonna get to see this place.
Yeah, it’s one of those magical places where you’ll feel a chill run down your spine as you imagine the fear of the gladiators held in these chambers.
Ultimately, the tour concludes with a visit to the arena floor beneath the moonlight.
Again, this area is restricted to daytime tourists due to preservation.
In fact, this segment includes some time to explore independently before you’re led to the exit.
Now, this tour lasts around 2 hours. And, as with most night tours in Rome, the start times vary based on the time of year.
Pro Tip: Like with all of the best Colosseum at night tours, you get to see parts of the Colosseum you wouldn’t see during the day, don’t have to deal with horrible daytime crowds, and don’t have to contend with intense heat from the sun.
| Pros | Cons |
| Exclusive access to the arena and underground | Limited Availability |
| Professional guide | |
| Headsets provided | |
| Can sign up as a solo traveler | |
| Reasonable price for a night tour |
6. Rome Colosseum Under the Moonlight
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (12 Reviews) Price: $71.04 per person Duration: 2.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Santi Cosma e Damiano Details: Read more on Viator Now!
Hungry?
Of course you are since nothing guarantees a rumbling tummy more than spending a day traipsing around Rome – also why you need a good Rome food tour in your life.
And that’s why this Colosseum Under the Moonlight tour commences with a quick bite to eat.
Now, it’s no banquet but you can expect a couple of light bar snacks and a drink to satiate you before embarking on one of the best Colosseum night tours around.
You’ll also get to break the ice with your fellow Colosseumgoers and chit-chat with your professional tour guide about life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (j/k).
“The tour was wonderful and Renata was a great guide. She was personable, knowledgeable and really made the experience fun. And it was lovely to see the Colosseum at night with fewer people and cooler temperatures. I would recommend it.”
Jennifer (read more reviews now)
Afterward, you’ll step into this UNESCO World Heritage Site and tune into your guide’s commentary.
Plus, you’ll get a headset on this tour to make sure you catch all the juicy deets.
Now, this mega epic 2.5-hour tour covers both the arena floor where the ferocious games took place and the underground lair where gladiators waited to enter the arena.
Additionally, you will walk along the Via dei Fori Imperiali and get a peek at the Roman Forum too!
Just remember that this tour also includes a stop at the stunning viewpoint at Capitoline Hill, which is illuminated beneath the night sky.
Essentially, this is the best Colosseum evening tour if you’re looking for added value.
| Pros | Cons |
| Only tour to include a light aperitivo before the tour starts | Only available on select Fridays and Saturdays |
| The itinerary also includes other principal sights in Rome | Issues with the tour starting on time |
| One of the most budget-friendly tours of the Colosseum at night | |
| Itinerary also includes other principal sights in Rome |
So, What’s it Like to Visit the Colosseum at Night?
Not to be biased, but exploring the Colosseum at night is a superlative experience.
See, there are only a limited number of tours allowed in the complex at night.
Therefore, the amphitheater is practically deserted and you’ll have fewer crowds interfering with your views.
This also makes for a pretty surreal atmosphere – especially once the stars start to twinkle and the moon rises above you.
Plus, if you visit in summer, you’re spared the sweltering heat.
Now, in case of severe rain or storms, most tour operators will reschedule. In general, though, they will offer you an alternative date or a refund.
But, it’s super important to read the booking terms of your chosen Colosseum at night tour.
Additionally, you will gain access to parts of the Colosseum that most daytime visitors don’t get to see, like the arena and underground.
Heck, you can even enjoy taking photos without a million people in the background.
Pros and Cons of Visiting the Colosseum at Night
So, is it worth it to visit the Colosseum at night?
Let’s weigh in with an epic pros and cons list.
But, my short answer is yes!!! A thousand times yes.
| Pros | Cons |
| Night tours are strictly limited to keep numbers low and avoid crowds | Night tours are strictly limited to keep numbers low and avoid crowds |
| Most Colosseum at night tours permit access to the restricted underground and reconstructed arena floor | Colosseum at night tours are more expensive |
| Generally, tours include skip-the-line/fast-track entry | You’ll need to vacate the amphitheater once the tour concludes |
| Access is only permitted with a guided tour so you get to learn all the history | Less flexibility for roaming independently |
| Fewer other people hanging around to photobomb your pics | Tours are not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with mobility issues |
| Way faster to clear the security checkpoint | A decent camera (or advanced smartphone) is required for top-notch photography |
| A clever way to maximize your sightseeing time in Rome | Might be scary for younger kids (or push them to exhaustion) – recommended for those aged 7+ |
| Awesome for couples seeking a quirky date night | As with all tours in Rome, they require a minimum number of participants to run |
| Avoid the intense heat of the summer sun | Dungeons are subject to closure in the case of inclement weather |
| Ultimately, the Colosseum at night is a phenomenal experience you’ll never forget | These tours fill up fast so you need to book in advance! |
Want the best Colosseum at night tour? 🌙 Then book this tour! It’s my top pick since it’s well-priced/well-reviewed, and brings you to the Roman Forum/Trajan’s Column too! 🇮🇹
Colosseum at Night FAQs
Can you go in the Colosseum at Night?
It is possible to go into the Rome Colosseum at night but only as part of a guided tour.
These tours take you to the Colosseum arena floor and underground tunnels. Night tours run all year long and require advance booking.
Is it worth visiting the Colosseum at night?
It’s totally worth visiting the Colosseum at night. There are barely any crowds (so you can take great photos), zero chance of sunburn, and it’s a surreal experience.
It’s particularly worth visiting the Colosseum at night in summer when Rome is subject to extreme heat.
How Late Can you Visit the Colosseum?
The Colosseum of Rome is open daily from 09.00 AM and closes 1 hour before sunset.
The final admission is 1 hour ahead of closing time. But, the best Colosseum at night tours let you visit the landmark as late as 21:00 PM while enjoy this landmark beneath the moonlight.
What Time is Best to see the Colosseum?
The best time to see the Colosseum is first thing in the morning or at night.
This spares you from the hot weather during summer and the crowds that inundate the area year-round.
With the exception of December when Christmas brings a flurry of tourists, the low season of November through March is a quieter, aka better, time for visiting the Colosseum.
Additional Rome Resources You’ll Love
There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best Colosseum at night tours.
Tell me, did your picks for the best Colosseum night tours make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.
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