Rome: Tour of Colosseum Arena Floor with 1st and 2nd Levels

Experience the Colosseum as the gladiators did with this 3-hour guided tour that takes you onto the arena floor, then up to the first and second levels of this iconic monument. Starting from Piazza del Colosseo, the tour offers an up-close look at the place where history was made, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. After exploring the Colosseum’s most legendary spaces, you’ll enjoy a walking tour of ancient Rome’s temples and palaces, bringing the city’s past vividly to life.

This tour is well-suited for those who want an intimate experience of the Colosseum, thanks to its small-group format. It covers several key areas, including the Gladiator’s Gate, the arena floor, and the upper and lower levels. Keep in mind that the tour does not include access to the undergrounds or third, fourth, and fifth levels of the Colosseum, but the focus on the main arena offers plenty of impressive moments. The live English-speaking guide ensures you get rich details and stories, making this tour a satisfying choice for history buffs and first-time visitors alike.

Key Points

• Includes access to the arena floor, first and second levels of the Colosseum
• Small-group size enhances the personal experience and engagement
• Starting point at Piazza del Colosseo with clear instructions for meeting
• Tour duration of around 3 hours, including the walking tour of ancient Rome
• Excludes undergrounds and higher levels of the Colosseum
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendliness

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Walk in Gladiators’ Footsteps on the Arena Floor

The highlight of this tour is stepping onto the arena floor, the very space where gladiators once fought for entertainment and survival. The Gladiator’s Gate is a notable feature, and from this vantage point, you get a sense of the scale and intensity of ancient battles. The 30-minute dedicated time on the arena allows for a detailed look and the chance to imagine the dramatic spectacles that took place.

Our guides share vivid stories about the gladiators’ fights and the history of this legendary space, making it more than just a walk. This area offers the best visual and educational experience, even if access to Colosseum undergrounds is not included. The security checks are thorough, so be prepared to show passports or copies multiple times as you enter.

Exploring the First and Second Levels of the Colosseum

After standing on the arena, the tour continues with visits to the First and Second levels. Here, you’ll see spectator seating, barrel-vaulted corridors, and the views of the ruins. The small-group setting makes it easy to take in the sights without feeling rushed and to ask questions about the structure’s architecture and history.

Travelers consistently praise guides for their enthusiasm and detailed explanations, which help bring the structure’s history into focus. While these levels do not include the higher tiers, they still provide a comprehensive look at how Roman audiences experienced the shows and the engineering marvel that is the Colosseum.

Climb to the Top Levels for Views and Context

The tour includes access to the upper and lower levels of the Colosseum, offering panoramic views of the interior and the surrounding Roman landscape. The lower level gives you a closer look at the support structures and pasages that hosted gladiators and animals, while the upper levels allow for stunning vistas.

Despite some restrictions, the viewpoints from these levels are highly appreciated, and guides share stories about Roman entertainment and the structure’s design. These spaces are less crowded, giving a more intimate experience to observe the grandeur of the monument.

Discover Ancient Rome on a Guided Walking Tour

After exiting the Colosseum, the experience continues with a walking tour of key Roman sites. The guide leads through temples, palaces, and ruins that once belonged to emperors and aristocrats, providing historical context at each stop.

Highlights include emperor’s palaces and sacred temples, with stories that connect them to the broader story of ancient Rome. The 30-minute walk helps to visualize the city’s past, making history feel tangible and alive. The walking tour is paced well, with plenty of stops for photos and questions.

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Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Piazza del Colosseo, 23, where guides stand next to the green kiosk and hold a ‘Tours of Rome’ sign. The meeting point is precise and easy to find, located near the lower level exit of the Colosseo metro station.

Prior to starting, guests must show passports or copies at security checkpoints, which are strict for safety reasons. The tour is non-refundable, so punctuality is advised to maximize the experience.

Practical Tips for the Tour Day

Guests should bring their passports or copies, as required for entry. Large bags or luggage are not permitted, so travel light. The duration of about 3 hours means comfortable shoes and water are recommended, especially in warmer months when walking and stairs may be involved.

Timing is subject to change if there are special events or weather issues like heavy rain or ice, which could close the arena floor. The tour does not include access to undergrounds or the higher levels beyond the second tier, which is important to consider if those are of specific interest.

The Expertise and Style of Guides

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable, engaging guides who bring stories to life. Guides like Cristina, Anna, Elisabetta, and Serena are praised for their enthusiasm, clarity, and storytelling skills. They often provide helpful tips, photos, and answers to questions, making the tour both educational and enjoyable.

Many mention guides’ passion for history and their ability to balance storytelling with detailed facts, making the experience memorable even for those with some prior knowledge of Rome.

The Value of the Tour Experience

At the price point, the tour offers access to the main and most impressive parts of the Colosseum, plus an insightful walk through ancient Rome. The small-group format enhances the overall value by allowing more interaction and better viewing angles.

While the tickets are available elsewhere at lower costs, securing them through authorized providers ensures legitimate access and avoids scalping issues noted in reviews. The 3-hour duration balances sightseeing and storytelling without feeling rushed.

Limitations and Considerations

This tour does not include the undergrounds of the Colosseum or access to the third, fourth, or fifth levels. For those seeking a deeper exploration of the monument, additional or specialized tours might be necessary.

Guests should also note that wheelchair users are not accommodated, and heavy rain or ice could restrict access to certain areas, particularly the arena floor. The tour is best suited for those prepared for a fair amount of walking and stairs.

Visiting Ancient Rome After the Colosseum

The walking tour that follows the main site visits takes you through emperor’s palaces and sacred temples, painting a vivid picture of Rome’s imperial past. The stories and facts shared by guides make these ruins come alive, helping to understand how Rome functioned in its prime.

This part of the tour complements the Coliseum experience perfectly, providing context for what you see and an appreciation for the city’s grandeur. It’s an excellent way to round out a visit to ancient Rome in a compact, well-organized manner.

Final Thoughts on the Colosseum Arena Floor and Ancient Rome Tour

This 3-hour guided experience offers a comprehensive look at the Colosseum’s most iconic areas and a street-level view of ancient Rome. The small-group format allows for personalized attention and more detailed stories, making it popular among visitors seeking an engaging and in-depth tour.

While access to undergrounds or higher levels is not included, the main arena, first, and second levels provide plenty of impressive sights and insights. The experienced guides are a highlight, sharing anecdotes, facts, and tips that enhance the visit.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and those wanting a balanced, informative walk through Rome’s ancient highlights. It’s a well-organized, value-packed choice for your Roman adventure, especially if you want to see the most famous parts of the Colosseum up close.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include access to the undergrounds of the Colosseum?
No, the tour does not include access to the Colosseum undergrounds.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours, including the archaeological site visits and walking tour.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Piazza del Colosseo, 23, with guides holding a ‘Tours of Rome’ sign near the lower level exit of the Colosseo metro station.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to stairs and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Guests must bring passports or copies. Large luggage or bags are not allowed.

Can I visit the higher levels of the Colosseum?
No, access is only available to the first and second levels; higher tiers are not included.

Will I get to see the Roman Forum?
Yes, the Roman Forum is part of the guided walking tour after visiting the Colosseum.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
No, the tour is conducted in English only.

Are there any restrictions related to weather?
Yes, heavy rain or ice can lead to closure of the arena floor and other areas.

What is the maximum group size?
The experience is designed as a small-group tour, enhancing interaction and accessibility.

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