Skip the line tickets and tips for first time visiting Colosseum.

The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome, beautiful, powerful and historical. It was the largest and absolutely outstanding amphitheater in the Roman world. It’s one of the most famous sights in Italy and a very popular tourist destination. 

The Colosseum was build in 1st century CE and commissioned  by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty as a gift to the Roman people. Later, his son Titus opened the amphitheater for public spectacles, games, including gladiatorial battles and animal fights. 

Inside, the Colosseum had seating for more than 50,000 people, but it could hold up to 80,000 spectators. 

For years, part of the amphitheater used for the construction of St. Peter’s Basilica and later as a shelter for animals. 

Today the Amphitheatre is an ancient masterpiece that has survived the centuries and capable of telling stories that will be interesting for everyone. 

The Roman Forum was the center of everyday life for over a millennium. It was a plaza of important government buildings: political, religious and commercial. 

This day the Roman Forum includes many ancient artifacts and monuments, dedicated to the memory of the emperors and the Roman victory against the Parthians. 

Traveling tips: 

Tickets to the Colosseum and Roman forum:  

• To save money and have skip the line option. You should purchase them on an official site.  
• It will cost €18.00. 
• The tickets include access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine and temporary exhibitions.  
• Only the print @ home method will be available (no collection at the ticket office).  
• Wear comfortable shoes, have sunscreen and water because you will spend a whole day to discover the remarkable beauty, medieval masterpieces and rich history of the Museum. 

Audio guides:  

I recommend you to use Rick Steves’ Italy Audio Tours. 

You have to download an app on your phone, then download Colosseum Tour and Roman Forum Tour at home over Wi-Fi and you will be able to listen to it at museums. The audio tours are an amazing. It will not use your data. Just have a power bank to recharge your phone battery and don’t forget to take ear buds. 

Rick Steve’s website includes lots of free audio tours. Download anything that is interesting to you and can enjoy a self-guided tour. The benefits are: you are not attached to the group, and you save money.    

If you are planning to visit the Vatican Museum and St Peters Basilica, please refer to my post How to buy skip the line tickets, Save money and See an amazing Vatican Museum for more information.

Explore Monti area

I highly recommend you to explore the Monti area. 

Monti is an ancient area located right in the heart of the city between Colosseum and Termini Station. Dynamic and charm district with mix of rich history, chic atmosphere and cool cafes, restaurants and boutique shops. 

Fatamorgana Monti ice cream on Piazza degli Zingari 

While you enjoying to walk in Monti area don’t forget to stop at Fatamorgana Monti on Piazza degli Zingari and try the best ice cream in Rome! Fantastic one! It’s made from natural ingredients. Lots of various flavors.

The gelateria is small, but they have a little square and a bench in front of the café. You can savor your ice cream right there. 

If you are interested in gastronomic in Rome, then read my post Best places to eat in Rome. 

The Mouth of Truth 

15 minute walk from the Colosseum and you will get to Piazza della Bocca della Verità where you will find the Basilica of Saint Mary in Cosmedin, built in the 8th century. On the north side on the wall of the portico of the church you will see marble mask, called La Bocca della Verità or Mouth of Truth.

According to legend, if a person place his hand inside his mouth (“bocca”) and then lies, the mouth will close and bite off the hand.  

The Mouth of Truth still attracts many guests who fearlessly insert their hands. 

The Elephant and Obelisk statue 

If you already explored Monti district and going toward to the Pantheon, go through Piazza della Minerva, you will discover the Elephant and Obelisk statue designed by Lorenzo Bernini. As we know Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1598-1680) was the greatest Italian sculptor and architect of the 17th century. 

This is very pleasant piazza and it is only 20 minutes to walk from Colosseum. 

Hope my information was helpful! 

Enjoy ! 

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