The Colosseum is probably at the very top of the list when it comes to Rome’s must-see attractions. During the day, crowds flock here for the perfect selfie and a taste of what it must have been like to sit inside the ancient amphitheater during a gladiator fight.
Normally the gates close after dark, but it is now possible to visit the Colosseum at night.
To get inside after normal opening hours, we met for a nighttime group tour and walked towards the famous monument as dusk settled in.
From the outside, the Colosseum is dramatically lit at night, so I was curious to see what it was like inside without the crowds.
The lack of a line would be almost unthinkable during the day but the sparser crowds were already making this a less stressful visit.
In addition to missing the masses, visiting the Colosseum at night (which is only available during the warmer months) makes it all the more bearable because temperatures tend to drop as the sun sets.
The number of groups allowed in after dark is seriously restricted so you can better enjoy the monument without the distraction of large numbers of visitors.
What’s better is that you can see the entire structure. Normal entrance to the Colosseum only allows access to certain levels, but with a night tour, you can also see the underground area of the theater. (Though please note that in summer 2019 this area is currently closed for renovations).
I think this is one of the most interesting parts of the structure because it helps to highlight just how advanced the engineering was for the spectacles that could be held here. A serious of pulleys and levers (and lots of slaves) made it possible to quickly change the scenery or hoist up exotic animals to be released into the arena.
Climbing the different levels, you will learn about the history of the Colosseum over the ages and get to examine it in a way that few people ever have the chance to see.
Did I mention it is EMPTY?
Lovely.
Want to try it for yourself? You can book with the Roman Guy but due to limited availability, you might also try booking online through Tiqets which has a shorter overall tour that offers the same amount of time inside the Colosseum at a lower price.
Many thanks to the Roman Guy for the invitation to join their Colosseum at Night Tour. This post contains affiliate links and you can read more about that here.
Natalie, thank you so much for your wonderful articles. I used your blog quite a bit to plan my trip. My husband and I are having a wonderful time in this beautiful city. Ciao!
Kristin
Hi Kristin- thank you! I am so glad to hear that! Have a wonderful time in Rome.
One thing I can say is: is there a country more beautiful than Italy? Maybe France… but even then – look at IL COLOSSEO! Everything is just magnificent.
http://www.diaryofanexpatgirl.com
France is stunning! But I still think Rome is the most beautiful city I have ever seen <3
We have this booked for our trip in a couple weeks…looking forward to having smaller crowds, and I had not even thought about the cooler temps. That is another bonus! Your photos make it look quite spooky!
The empty feeling is a tiny bit spooky but it mainly feels timeless! I hope you have an amazing trip!
i’m interested to join this trip
I am visiting Rome for the first time soon and have limited time with half day guided tour that includes the Coliseum. However, I want to photograph the Coliseum at twilight but im concerned about safety being in that area, getting my photographs, then getting back to the NH Collection Hotel afterwards. Can you recommend a safe strategy?
Mark