Visiting the Colosseum and Palatine Hill
Few places on Earth let you stand in the shadow of an empire like Rome’s Colosseum and Palatine Hill. In this Rome travel guide, we share our top Colosseum Rome travel tips and what you need to know before visiting these ancient wonders.
Exploring the Colosseum: A Rome Travel Experience
As we approached the Colosseum, its massive, timeworn arches came into view, reminding us of Rome’s unmatched ambition. Built nearly two millennia ago, this grand amphitheater once hosted gladiator battles and elaborate performances for tens of thousands of spectators.
Walking through its stone corridors, I could almost hear the roar of ancient crowds and feel the weight of history in every shadow. I must admit, I was a bit overwhelmed — but I was in awe of what human ambition can accomplish.
Discovering Palatine Hill: Where Rome Began
A short walk from the Colosseum brought us to Palatine Hill, where our tour guide informed us that Romulus founded Rome in 753 BC. This hill, rising above the Roman Forum, offers breathtaking views over the ruins and the modern city beyond.
As we explored the remains of imperial palaces, homes, and gardens, it was humbling to stand where emperors once lived — a place older than the Bible itself, still sharing stories of power and transformation.
Essential Colosseum Rome Travel Tips
We booked our guided tour through Viator.com (associated with TripAdvisor). When we arrived in Italy, we learned our tour was actually operated by a local company called Show Me Italy. If you’re planning your own visit, it may be more cost-effective to book directly with Show Me Italy. For the best rates, you can also buy tickets straight from the official Colosseum website at ticketing.colosseo.it.
We visited during a heatwave in Rome — even early in the morning, temperatures were already in the 90s (Fahrenheit) and only got hotter as the day progressed. Here are a few tips if you’re traveling during the summer months:
Bring water: Keep it with you at all times. There’s a water fountain inside Palatine Hill where you can refill your bottle.
Dress smart: Cotton clothing is much more breathable and comfortable than polyester in the heat.
Time your visit carefully: Early morning or late afternoon tours help you avoid the hottest hours and biggest crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes: You will be walking for hours on uneven ground.
Buy tickets in advance: Lines can be long, especially during peak season.
Consider a guided tour: The stories behind what you’re seeing make the experience far richer.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most visitors spend 3–4 hours exploring both sites, especially if they include a guided tour.
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Yes, you can purchase tickets for self-guided visits, but a tour provides more context and can help skip the entrance lines.
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Definitely — Palatine Hill offers stunning views and fascinating history, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Rome.
