What day of the week is best to visit the Colosseum?

Choosing the best day to visit the Colosseum can greatly enhance your experience by avoiding excessive crowds and long wait times. While the perfect day can vary based on several factors like the season and local events, here are some general guidelines for visiting the ancient arena.

Best day to visit the Colosseum

1. Weekdays are Usually Better than Weekends

The best day to visit the Colosseum to fully experience the famous amphitheatre without the crowds, is typically during the weekdays.

• Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) tend to be busier as both tourists and local visitors flock to the site.
• Tuesdays and Thursdays have traditionally been considered some of the quieter days to visit.

2. Mid-Morning or Late Afternoon

Regardless of the day you choose, consider visiting early morning (8:30) or late afternoon when groups start to leave and the heat (in summer) starts to wane.

3. The First Sunday of the Month

The Colosseum offers free entry on the first Sunday of every month. This can be a great opportunity to visit without an entrance fee, but it can also mean much larger crowds. If you choose to visit on the first Sunday of the month, be sure to arrive early (8:30 am)

4. Avoid National Holidays and School Vacations

Italian national holidays and school vacation times can lead to increased local visitors. It might be wise to check the Italian holiday calendar before planning your visit.

5. Check for Special Events

Occasionally, the Colosseum might host special events or exhibits, which could affect the number of visitors. It’s always a good idea to check ahead for any such events.

6. Monitor Tourist Seasons

• Peak Season (June to August): This is when Rome receives the highest number of tourists. Expect the Colosseum to be busy on most days.
• Shoulder Season (April-May and September-October): These months are often considered the best times to visit Rome. The weather is pleasant, and while there are still many tourists, it’s less crowded than peak season.
• Off-Peak Season (November to March): Apart from major holidays, this is when you’ll find the fewest tourists in Rome. The Colosseum will be less crowded, but be prepared for cooler weather and potentially shorter daylight hours.

7. Book in Advance

No matter which day you choose, booking your ticket in advance can save time. Some ticket options also offer “skip-the-line” privileges, allowing you to bypass the main ticket queue.

In conclusion, while weekdays, especially mid-week days like Tuesday and Thursday, are generally more favorable, the best day for you will depend on your personal schedule, weather preferences, and tolerance for crowds. Always check the Colosseum’s official website for up-to-date information on hours, special events, and any potential closures.

Colosseum opening hours

Jan 2 – Feb 15: 8.30am – 3.30pm
Feb 16 – Mar 15: 8.30am – 5.00pm
Mar 16 – Mar 28: 8.30am – 5.30pm
Mar 29 – Aug 31: 8.30am – 7.15pm
Sep 1 – Sep 30: 8.30am – 7.00pm
Oct 1 – Oct 31: 8.30am – 6.30pm
Nov 1 – Dec 31: 8.30am – 4.30pm

(last admission always 1 hour before close)
Only closed Christmas day and New Year’s Day

for more Colosseum visiting tips see our Blog or email us contactus@colosseumtoursinrome.com