Rome: Colosseum Underground Experience, with Roman Forum

Travelers eager to explore the most iconic Roman landmarks often find themselves limited by crowds or ticket restrictions. This tour offers a rare chance to see less-accessible areas like the Colosseum’s Underground Dungeons and enjoy a comprehensive visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, all within three hours. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll uncover the secrets behind the grandeur of ancient Rome while walking in the footsteps of emperors, gladiators, and prisoners alike.

One of the biggest highlights of this experience is the exclusive access to the Colosseum’s Underground, which less than 2% of visitors get to see. We love how this tour combines history with a sense of adventure—walking on the arena floor, exploring secret tunnels, and standing beneath the grand arches of the Roman Forum. But a consideration is the tour’s duration; three hours can feel quite full, especially in hot weather or with young kids. Still, it’s best suited for history buffs, photography lovers, or anyone who craves an in-depth, authentic Roman experience.

This tour is tailor-made for those who want more than just a surface-level visit. If you’re after insights from expert guides, access to hidden parts of the Colosseum, and a well-rounded exploration of ancient Rome, then this experience is a fantastic choice. It suits travelers who enjoy walking, learning, and capturing stunning photos along the way.

Key Points

• Exclusive Underground Access: Less than 2% of visitors get to see the Colosseum’s underground tunnels, making this tour uniquely special.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visit the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Arena Floor, and Underground dungeons—all in one tour.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Led by expert, licensed guides with a passion for Roman history, bringing the sites to life.
• Fast-Tracked Entry: Skip the lines through guides’ entrances, saving precious time and avoiding crowds.
• Value for Money: For $93, you get a thorough, multi-site experience with expert commentary.
• Physical Demands: Expect a fair amount of walking and stairs; wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated, especially in summer.

In-Depth Review

The Booking and Value

Valuing what you get for around $93, this tour checks a lot of boxes for history lovers. The price includes entry to the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Colosseum, plus the exclusive access to either the Arena Floor or the Underground Dungeons. The fact that you get to choose the underground experience makes it particularly appealing for those eager to see the hidden workings of the Colosseum—the tunnels where gladiators prepared and prisoners awaited their fate.

Many reviews praise the value: “It’s a lot of information for your money,” one guest notes, emphasizing how the tour covers both the grandeur of the ruins and the gritty underground secrets that usually remain out of reach.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point Options:
You can meet at the Arch of Constantine or Trajan’s Column and the Arch of Constantine. Either way, your guide will be there holding a “Let’s See Italy” sign, which makes finding the meeting point straightforward.

Roman Forum (45 minutes):
Walking through the heart of ancient Rome’s political and social life, we loved the way guides brought the ruins to life. Seeing the Temples, Basilicas, and Arches such as the Arch of Titus and the Temple of Saturn, we could almost hear the echoes of ancient ceremonies. Many reviews highlight guides’ storytelling skills—like a reviewer from the US who said, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.”

Palatine Hill (45 minutes):
Perched above the Forum, Palatine Hill is the legendary birthplace of Rome. Embrace the panoramic views of the Colosseum and the city skyline. This stop gives a glance into Roman imperial life, with the ruins of emperors’ palaces. A visitor from Australia described this part as a “perfect photo stop and a break in the tour’s pace.”

The Colosseum (1.5 hours):
Walking through the Gladiators Gate, we step into the arena where countless battles played out. Standing on the arena floor transports you to a bygone era of chariot races and gladiator fights. Guests consistently rave about the skip-the-line entry, which saves hours of waiting, especially during peak season.

The Arena Floor (30 minutes):
From here, you get an unparalleled perspective—standing where the crowds cheered, where animals and gladiators once emerged from trapdoors. Several reviews mentioned how capturing photos here feels almost surreal, “like being part of history.”

Underground Dungeons (30 minutes):
This is the crowning jewel for many—access to the secret tunnels and dungeons used by gladiators and prisoners. Because access is limited, booking early is essential. Reviewers describe this as “a unique experience,” with one saying, “It’s unlike any other tour, walking beneath the arena in the tunnels where the action behind the scenes unfolded.”

Guides and Experience

The guides seem to be a big part of what makes this tour special. Many reviews praise guides like Francesca, Valeria, Eugene, and Polina—many are archaeologists or history enthusiasts who can answer even tricky questions. They’re often described as engaging, personable, and passionate. For example, one reviewer mentioned their guide, David, as “the best guide we’ve had in three weeks,” highlighting his humor and enthusiasm.

Several guests appreciated the use of ear pieces, which ensured everyone could hear clearly—especially helpful in crowded areas. Notably, the guides often shared stories and facts beyond the standard script—such as insights about how quickly the Colosseum was built or the role of the games in Roman politics.

Accessibility, Comfort, and Practical Tips

While the tour is packed with sights, be prepared for a good amount of walking—including stairs in the underground sections. Wearing comfortable shoes is a must, and carrying water and sun protection is recommended, especially during summer months.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, as some ruins and tunnels involve uneven terrain and stairs. Meeting points are easy to find if you follow instructions carefully. The tour’s duration of about three hours feels balanced, though it can be tiring in hot weather or if not used to walking.

Reviews and Real Experiences

Authentic insights from travelers reveal the consistent high praise for guides. Many reviewers mentioned guides like Francesca, Valeria, and Polina, calling them “fantastic,” “knowledgeable,” and “very engaging.” The underground visit frequently appears as a favorite, with guests describing it as “amazing,” “special,” and “a peek behind the curtains of Roman entertainment.”

One guest from the UK shared, “Our archaeologist guide Valeria had insane expertise, and it showed in how she connected the ruins to real stories,” emphasizing the tour’s educational depth. Another said, “The underground tunnels were a highlight—they felt like stepping back into history,” reinforcing how rare and valuable this access truly is.

Practical Aspects and Recommendations

• Booking early is crucial—tickets for the underground are limited and highly sought after.
• Meet at the Arch of Constantine for an easy start.
• Bring a valid ID matching your reservation to avoid issues at entry.
• Wear comfortable shoes—the tour involves a lot of walking and stairs.
• Prepare for the weather—bring water, a hat, and sunblock.
• Opt for the small group if possible, for a more personal experience and better chances to ask questions.
• Skip the line with the guide’s entrance, but be prepared for potential delays during busy periods.

The Sum Up

This tour offers incredible value for those who want a deep dive into Roman history, focusing on rare access points like the underground tunnels and the arena floor. The combination of expert guides, impressively well-preserved ruins, and exclusive access makes it one of the best options for history enthusiasts, photographers, and curious travelers seeking a meaningful experience.

While it requires some walking and can be lengthy, the overall richness of what you see and learn makes it worthwhile. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of Roman entertainment, politics, and architecture—plus some truly unforgettable photos. If you’re after an authentic, engaging, and comprehensive Roman adventure, this tour is hard to beat.

This experience is perfect for those interested in history, archaeology, and photography, or anyone who wants to see the hidden depths of the Colosseum while exploring the majestic Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy guided storytelling and want to skip lines in one of the world’s most visited ancient sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to select the underground option in advance?
Yes, you must choose the underground access option when booking if you want to visit the dungeons. Access is limited, so early booking is recommended.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, covering multiple sites including the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Colosseum, with the underground visit.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves a good amount of walking and stairs, especially in the underground tunnels, so it’s not wheelchair accessible and might be tiring for young children or those with mobility challenges.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential. Bring water, sun protection, and a hat if visiting in summer.

Where do I meet the guide?
Meet at the corner of the Arch of Constantine furthest from the Colosseum. The guide will be holding a “Let’s See Italy” sign.

Are tickets included in the price?
Yes, your ticket grants access to the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Colosseum, including the underground if selected.

Can I skip the lines?
Absolutely. Your guide’s entrance allows you to bypass long queues and start your tour promptly.

This tour promises a balanced, well-informed, and authentic Roman experience—perfect for anyone eager to unlock the secrets of the ancient world while enjoying the comforts of expert guidance and exclusive access.