Adventure Collective
Explore the Hidden Underworld of Rome’s Colosseum: Underground and Dungeons Tour - Roma

Explore the Hidden Underworld of Rome’s Colosseum: Underground and Dungeons Tour

Romamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness is recommended due to walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs; suitable for most able-bodied visitors.

Overview

Discover the secret underground tunnels, animal cages, and hidden passageways beneath Rome’s Colosseum on this exclusive guided tour. Delve into ancient Roman history as you explore the arena floor and nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Roma, Lazio

Colosseum Underground and Dungeons

All Ages - Great for Families! - Exclusive Access!

Food Tour
Private
Transportation

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About This Adventure

Experience the Colosseum like never before on this exclusive tour that takes you beneath the arena floor. Explore hidden tunnels, animal cages, and the very passageways that hosted epic games. Afterward, walk through the Roman Forum and ascend Palatine Hill, uncovering the rich history of ancient Rome with an expert guide.

This is an elite experience unlike any other at the Colosseum! Go beyond where the normal crowds go and follow your guide underneath the arena floor to explore the tunnels, animal cages and passageways of the Colosseum.

Duration: 2.5 hours

About

Discover the Colosseum Underground and Dungeons when you go to the restricted access areas of the stadium. With this special access to the Underground of the Colosseum, you will go below the arena floor where your guide will show you the tunnels and passageways that were used to coordinate the games. You will see the areas where the animals were kept before their debut, and you will even see a replica of one of the elevators that brought the lions to the stage. Next, your guide will take you up to the arena floor where the gladiators fought and died in battle. Following this, you will go up to the level of the crowds to see the vantage point of the blood thirsty fans. Once you’ve seen everything there is to see in the Colosseum, your guide will take you to the Roman Forum to walk on the streets built by Emperor Augustus. You will see and learn about state buildings, orator stages, and even see the Temple of Julius Caesar and the House of the Vestal Virgins. Then you will make your way up to the Palatine Hill while your guide shows you the palaces of the Emperors and shares with you the stories of intrigue and glory of the Roman Emperors who once lived there. Upon completion of the tour, your friendly, expert guide will be happy to help you find your way to easy transportation to your hotel, or even give you recommendations for a great Roman meal or suggestions for more things to see in Rome.

What's included

  • Entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
  • Expert Certified Guide
  • Headsets for groups when appropriate
  • €24-34 entry ticket to sites

What's Excluded

  • Transportation to/from meeting point
  • Food and Drink
  • Gratuities

Know Before You Go

Please check-in at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Tours will depart promptly at the scheduled time, and no refunds will be given for late arrivals or missed tours.

Proof of identification may be required, so please bring a valid form of photo ID for each guest.

Depending on the start time, the tour route may begin at the Forum/Palatine Hill.

Tours will proceed in all weather conditions, unless the site is closed by authorities for safety reasons. It is highly recommended to bring bottled water, sunscreen, hat, and umbrella.

There will be a security check upon entering the Colosseum. Any weapons, sharp objects, glass or aerosol containers will be confiscated, so please do not bring these items to the tour.

All tours operate within the current COVID-19 regulations set by the Italian Government.

All entry time groups are 25 people, your small group may be entering with others, but you will remain with your guide.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Check-In

Arrive at Via dei SS. Quattro, 81 at least 15 minutes before your tour starts to allow for security and check-in.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Expect uneven surfaces and stairs, especially in the underground tunnels—opt for sturdy, comfortable footwear.

Bring Sun Protection

Summer and spring tours require sunscreen and a hat as much of the walk is outdoors with limited shade.

Carry a Reusable Water Bottle

Keep hydrated during your 2.5-hour tour—water fountains are limited inside the ancient sites.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Pigeons commonly seen in the Forum ruins.
  • Mediterranean lizards basking on ancient stones.

History

The Colosseum underground was used to house gladiators and wild animals, with sophisticated mechanisms to stage the games, dating back to its completion in AD 80.

Conservation

Preservation efforts focus on limiting foot traffic in fragile underground sections and educating visitors on the site's cultural significance to minimize impact.

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Adventure Hotspots in Roma

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Supports navigating uneven cobblestones and stairs throughout the tour.

Sun Hat

Essential

spring specific

Sunscreen

Essential

spring specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential