Rome Colosseum map: plan and route inside

The Colosseum is enormous and understanding its plan before going in helps you not get lost and make the most of the visit. Here we explain how it is organised inside —the rings of the tiers, the Arena and the hypogeum— and how it links to the Roman Forum and the Palatine, plus which gate is best to enter by.

How the Colosseum is organised inside

The Flavian Amphitheatre is structured in concentric rings of tiered seating that surround the central area. These are the parts you will see on your route:

• The tiers (levels or rings): where up to 50,000 spectators sat according to their social class. Today the first and second levels can be visited, with the best panoramic views of the interior.
• The Arena: the central platform, today partly reconstructed, where the gladiators fought. Standing on it is only possible with the specific tour.
• The hypogeum (underground): the network of tunnels and cells beneath the Arena where gladiators, wild beasts and the stage machinery were prepared. It is seen from above on the standard visit.
• Exit towards the Forum: the route connects with the Roman Forum and the Palatine, included in the ticket.

To better understand the central area, read our guide on the Arena and the underground of the Colosseum.

The usual route, step by step

• 1. Access and check: you enter through the security area with your ticket and document.
• 2. Up to the tiers: you reach the first and second ring, from where you overlook the whole Arena and the hypogeum.
• 3. Inner loop: you walk around the amphitheatre from the inside, with viewpoints towards the centre.
• 4. Arena (tour only): if you have the Arena tour, you go down to stand on the central platform.
• 5. Exit to the Roman Forum: the route continues towards the Arch of Titus and the Via Sacra.

From the Colosseum to the Roman Forum and the Palatine

The same ticket gives access to the Roman Forum and the Palatine, which are part of the same site. From the Colosseum you enter the Forum by the Arch of Titus area, walk the Via Sacra past the House of the Vestals and the Curia, and from there climb the Palatine, the emperors' hill, with views over the Forum and the Circus Maximus. The ticket is valid for 24 hours with one entry to each site.

Which gate to enter the Colosseum by?

The main entrance is opposite the Colosseo metro stop (Line B). If you have a booked ticket, you will normally use a priority entrance separate from the ticket office, which saves you the general queue. Have your ticket and ID or passport ready, because the name on the ticket must match the document. To get there without hassle, check our guide on how to get to the Colosseum.

Frequently asked questions

Keep planning your visit

Independent information website: we are not the official website of the Parco archeologico del Colosseo and we are not affiliated with it. We book through Civitatis, of which we are affiliates. The route and access points may vary depending on the site's conditions. Information reviewed in June 2026.