How to Get to the Colosseum: Complete Guide 2024

As one of the most impressive sites in Ancient Rome, the Colosseum remains one of the most visited landmarks in the world. And if you’re traveling to Rome, you will want to know how to get to the Colosseum.

Understanding how to get to this iconic structure is essential for a seamless and enriching visit. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to reach the Colosseum, whether you prefer public transport, driving, or take a tourist bus, ensuring you make the most of your trip to the ancient arena.

Where is the Colosseum Located?

Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM.

The Roman Colosseum is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built and is located in the very center of Rome, Italy.

Nearest landmarks: Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum.

What is the Best Way to Get to the Colosseum?

Cheapest option: Metro and buses/trams are economical options. You can buy tickets at any metro station, newsstand, or tobacconist for only €1.50. Taking daily passes if you are sightseeing in Rome is also economical and convenient. Buses run from 05:30 to 00:00, while night buses run from 00:00 to 05:30.

Most Convenient Option: Book your Hop On Hop Off Bus ticket, which is the best way to see all the best tourist attractions in Rome.

Fastest Option: Getting to the Colosseum by metro is the fastest and also the cheapest option. It only takes 2 to 4 minutes from Roma Termini to reach the Colosseo station. Rome’s metro operates from 05:30 to 23:30 Sunday through Thursday; on Friday and Saturday, the metro runs until 01:30.

How to Get to the Colosseum by Public Transport

There are different ways to get to the Colosseum, and while you can walk there if you’re staying near Termini Station, or enjoy transfers when joining a tour of the Colosseum you can easily take public transportation or a car too.

By Bus

• Travel time: 10 to 12 minutes from Roma Termini
• Lines 38 and 75 depart from the northern regions of Rome. From the south, buses 175 and 271 take you to the Colosseum.
• The Colosseum has its own bus stop at Piazza del Colosseo, right in front of the entrance.
• Other bus lines include 3, 8, 40, 60, 23, 30, 85, 87, 117, 810, and 870.
• Tickets can be purchased at tobacconists and newsstands. They cost €1.50 and are valid for about 75 minutes.
• Alternatively, consider a Hop On Hop Off Bus, which is the best way to get around in Rome.

By Metro

• Travel time: 5 minutes from Roma Termini
• This monument has its own metro station, Colosseo, and when reaching it, you will get right in front of the Flavian amphitheater.
• Rome’s metro system is quite easy to understand. Of the 3 lines: A, B, and C, the Colosseo station is on Line B.
• Take a train on this line from Roma Termini or any other station in the city.
• If you don’t want to change lines, you can get off at the nearest stations, which are about 15-20 minutes from the Colosseum entrance.

By Tram

• Travel time: 2 to 4 minutes from Roma Termini
• Trams are also a good option if you want to reach the Colosseum from around Rome.
• Just take trams on lines 3 or 8. The Piazza del Colosseo tram stop is located right next to the Colosseum.
• You can buy tram tickets at any newsstand, tobacconist, or metro station. Once validated, a ticket is valid for 100 minutes.
• If you are caught with an invalid or no ticket, you can get a fine of up be to €100.

How to Get to the Colosseum by Car

Of course, you can also get to the Colosseum by car, and these are the directions. Note that there is no parking lot at the Colosseum, but there is nonetheless paid parking, which is convenient.

Also, if you visit the Colosseum at night, getting there by car or calling a Uber is better, as public transportation options may be limited.

RELATED GUIDE: 10 Local Tips For Visiting the Colosseum

Driving Route

• Travel time: 10 minutes from Roma Termini
• The Colosseum is located in the heart of Rome. The saying “All roads lead to Rome” literally applies in this city as “All roads lead to the Colosseum.”
• If you are coming from Roma Termini, head southwest on Piazza Dei Cinquecento and turn right onto Via Giovanni Giolitti.
• Take the next left onto Via Cavour and another left onto Via degli Annibaldi. Annibaldi Street slightly turns left and becomes Via Nicola Salvi.
• Follow Via Celio Vibenna, and it will lead you directly to the Colosseum entrance.
• Driving also gives you the opportunity to explore other landmarks like the Pantheon, Roman Forum, Domus Aurea, etc., along the way with slight detours.

Parking

You’ll find paid parking near the Colosseum. But keep in mind these garages are always busy, and finding a spot can be challenging.

• Parcheggio Park Colosseo (350 m)
• Park Services Colosseum (350 m)
• Parcheggio San Pietro in Vincoli (500 m)
• Onepark – Parcheggio Roma – Colosseo (350 m)

FAQ About the Colosseum Location

Now that you know how to get to the Colosseum in Rome, let’s go through some common questions that first-timers in Italy often have, and that you may have too.

Where is the Colosseum Located?

The Colosseum is located in the center of Rome, on Piazza del Colosseo. Its official address is: 1 Piazza del Colosseo, 00184 Roma RM.

What are the Different Ways to Get to the Colosseum?

There are 3 public transport options: buses, trams, and metro. All these options are quick and easy to use. The Colosseum is well-served with its own bus stop and a metro station.

Which is the Closest Subway Station to the Colosseum?

The Colosseo station on Line B is the closest metro station. On Line A, the closest stations are Manzoni and San Giovanni.

Which Bus Line Goes to the Colosseum?

Buses 3, 8, 30, 40, 60, 75, 38, 87, 810, and 870 go to the Piazza del Colosseo stop.

Is there a Parking Lot at the Colosseum?

The Colosseum doesn’t have a parking lot, but you can use the paid parking garages located within a kilometer of the monument.

Conclusion

Visiting the Colosseum is an unforgettable experience that allows you to step back in time and have a glimpse of ancient Rome. Understanding the logistics of how to get there is important, and we hope this guide helped you with getting there.

Whether you choose to arrive by bus, metro, tram, or car, each option offers a convenient way to reach the heart of Rome and witness the marvel of the Colosseum.

The various public transport options make it easy and affordable to access the Colosseum, while driving offers the flexibility to explore other nearby historical sites. Remember to plan your route and purchase your tickets in advance to avoid any hassles and make your visit as smooth as possible.