VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Walk in the footsteps of the gladiators of ancient Rome on this small group tour that takes you to areas of the Colosseum usually closed to visitors. Learn what life was really like behind the scenes at the most famous gladiator arena in the world.

Access the underground area of the Colosseum closed to the general public with this VIP tour. Begin with express Colosseum entrance to avoid wasting time in line and head straight underground to see where gladiators and wild animals once waited to fight. As you make your way through the underbelly of the Colosseum, you'll see the past come to life through a fascinating multimedia exhibition showcasing real ancient artifacts and immersive digital projections. Then head up to the arena floor and amphitheater seating to learn about its history and architecture. End with a walk through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Since its reopening, the Colosseum’s underground area has become the sight to see in Rome. This domain of gladiators and animals is a part of your 3.5-hour VIP tour that’s truly away from the tourist crowds.

During the special access sections of the tour, you’ll be accompanied by a guard who will open gates to grant you and a maximum of 23 other guests (2 groups are combined when visiting these sections) exclusive entrance access to the underground and arena floor. While exploring the underground area, you'll see ancient history come alive before you through fascinating multimedia projections detailing the path gladiators took from their training area to the arena floor. You'll also be able to marvel at a collection of artifacts, including reproductions of the gladiators' famous armor made using the exact same materials and techniques as in ancient times.

With your expert guide you’ll also have a full tour of the regular access areas of the Colosseum, including the first and second levels.

Then it’s on to the Roman Forum where you’ll hear about the political history of ancient Rome. Julius Caesar once led his triumphant armies on parade here, and it was also here that successive emperors plotted the growth of Rome. 

For those with an interest in history, the Palatine Hill is an unexpected highlight. Vastly underrated, the hill is a much quieter place, where your guide will point out the ruins of the world’s first palaces.

With small groups having a maximum of 12 participants, and archaeologists as tour guides, your tour is sure to be an a fascinating opportunity to explore Roman history.