Colosseum

★ 4.8 (503,734)$$$ · Expensive

Completed in AD 80 under Emperor Titus, the Colosseum could hold tens of thousands of spectators for gladiatorial combat, staged animal hunts and mock naval battles, its ring of arches and underground hypogeum chambers still standing as one of the ancient world's most complete surviving structures. With a 4.8 rating from over half a million reviews — the most-reviewed spot in this entire batch — it's unambiguously one of the must-see sights in Europe, and its scale rewards taking real time rather than rushing through. The 120-minute suggested duration and required booking reflect how much there is to see, especially for anyone adding access to the arena floor or underground levels.

✨ Reasons to go

1Completed in AD 80 under Emperor Titus, it could hold tens of thousands of spectators for gladiatorial combat and staged animal hunts.
2The arena floor could be flooded or fitted with sets for mock naval battles and elaborate hunts.
3Underground hypogeum chambers, where gladiators and animals entered the arena, are still preserved and accessible on specialized tickets.

💡 Good to know

1Book tickets online well in advance, ideally a combined ticket covering the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
2consider an arena-floor or underground ticket for a more complete experience of where gladiators and animals actually entered
3go at opening time or on a combined evening slot to avoid the worst of the midday queues and heat.

⏱️ Typical visit

🕰️ Best time

early morning, morning, lunchtime or afternoon

🚶 Walking intensity

Moderate walking

📍

Address

P.za del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy · RomaGoogle Apple

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Booking

Booking required

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