Colosseo Travel Guide (Rome/Metropolitan Rome/Lazio/Central Italy/Italy/Europe)

Introduction to Colosseo

In the heart of Rome, Italy, stands the Colosseo, a magnificent amphitheater that was built nearly 2,000 years ago. Also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, it captivates tourists from around the world with its fascinating history and remarkable architecture. This guide will lead you through the best things to do and see in Colosseo, including popular attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink, accommodations, local customs, safety info, and transportation.

List of Places to Visit in Colosseo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Roman Forum: a rectangular plaza surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings, including the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Titus.
Palatine Hill: a historic site overlooking the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill is the birthplace of Rome and home to the ruins of several important palaces and temples, including the Temple of Apollo.
Arch of Constantine: a triumphal arch that was built to commemorate the victory of Emperor Constantine over Maxentius in 312 AD.

Natural Attractions of Colosseo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Gardens of Domus Aurea: a set of beautiful gardens located on the site of the former palace of Emperor Nero, with beautiful frescoes and murals.
Piazza del Colosseo: a historic square that overlooks the Colosseum, with wonderful views and plenty of seating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Colosseo

The Appian Way: a historic road that leads through the Roman countryside, with beautiful views of ancient ruins and scenic vistas.
The Nomentana Way: a scenic hiking and biking route that follows the ancient Via Nomentana.

Best Things to Do in Colosseo: Activities and Tours

Guided Tour of Colosseum and Roman Forum: Discover ancient history and cultural heritage on a private tour with an expert guide.
Gladiator School: Experience the thrill of battling it out in the Colosseum, with an expert instructor and all the gear you need!
Learn to Cook Authentic Italian Cuisine: Choose fresh ingredients and learn to cook traditional recipes with an expert chef.

Week-Long Itinerary for Colosseo

Day 1: Colosseum & Roman Forum
Day 2: Appian Way & Nomentana Way
Day 3: Museums & Historical Places (Palatine Hill, Arch of Constantine)
Day 4: Gardens of Domus Aurea & Piazza del Colosseo
Day 5: Gladiator School & cooking class
Day 6: Explore local food shops & wine tasting
Day 7: Day trip to nearby medieval town Orvieto

Food and Drink Scene of Colosseo

Must-Try Dishes

Cacio e pepe: the classic cheese and pepper pasta dish is a Roman staple and a must-try.
Saltimbocca alla Romana: pan-fried veal chops wrapped in prosciutto, sage, and tomatoes.
Gelato: Italian ice cream, need we say more?

Local Beverages

Wine: Italy is a world-renowned wine country, and the local wines are no exception.
Espresso: A trip to Italy isn’t complete without trying an espresso or cappuccino at a local coffee shop.
Limoncello: An after-dinner treat, this lemon-flavored liqueur is a celebrated Italian tradition.

Where to Stay in Colosseo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kolbe Hotel Rome: A four-star hotel located in the midst of historic city sites.
Inn at the Roman Forum: A boutique hotel overlooking both the Forum and the Colosseum.
Aventino Guest House Rome: This four-star guest house overlooks the Garden of Oranges and the historic Sabine Hill.

What to Buy in Colosseo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Wine and olive oil: brought straight from the Tuscan countryside.
Leather goods: high-quality leather goods can be found in shops throughout Rome.
Hand-painted ceramics: A beautiful and unique Italian tradition.

Local Culture and Customs of Colosseo

Italy’s culture is rich, and it’s essential to learn about local customs and cultural differences before traveling to Colosseo. One note, specifically, is that Italians consider punctuality to be a sign of respect. If you’re meeting someone, make sure you arrive on time!

Best Time to Visit Colosseo

To enjoy the weather and smaller crowds, visit in the spring (early March to late May) or fall (September to November). In July and August, Rome on the heat can be unbearable, and the tourism season is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Colosseo

Do:

Take care of your possessions and watch out for pickpockets.
Dress appropriately for places of worship and religious monuments.
Be polite and respectful to the locals.

Don’t:

Eat in public transport or on the street.
Touch the historic monuments or ruins.
Toss your cigarette butts on the street - it’s illegal and consequences can be high.

Safety and Health

Before you go, check your health insurance policy to make sure you have coverage in Italy. While Italy is generally safe for tourists, there are some precautions to take. Be wary of pickpockets around major tourist sights and keep your valuables safe. When it comes to drinking water, always stick to bottled options.

Getting to Colosseo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Colosseo

The Leonardo da Vinci Airport: located just 30 kilometers from Rome’s city center.
Ciampino Airport: located south of the city and serving several European airlines.

Bus Stations Near Colosseo

Rome Termini: the main bus station in the city and one of the largest in Europe.
Tiburtina Station: serves several national and international bus routes.

Other Options

Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are available in Rome but can be more expensive than public transportation.
Rome’s Metro System connects to all major sights in Rome and is relatively cheap.

How to Get Around in Colosseo

The best way to get around the city center is either on foot or by using the Metro.

Where to Go Next from Colosseo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Orvieto: a beautiful medieval town situated atop a hill near Rome, known for its stunning Gothic cathedral and underground tunnels.
Ostia Antica: a well-preserved ancient port town dating back to Roman times.
Florence: A foodie’s paradise, and one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, Florence is a must-see for art and history lovers.

Conclusion

The ancient history and architectural wonders of Colosseo are unlike anything else in the world. Whether you’re exploring the well-preserved ancient ruins or sampling the local cuisine, Rome is a city that will captivate your soul. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure through the city that was once the seat of the world’s most powerful empire.