Experiences
Colosseum and Vatican: tickets, tips and hotels in Rome
The gladiator arena, the Roman Forum and the Sistine Chapel in one trip. How to book tickets for the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, and where to stay in Rome.
You walk through a stone archway, and the arena opens up in front of you. Below the floor you can see the passages where animals and gladiators waited, and above you the stands rise in a ring. It is almost two thousand years since the crowds sat here.
The Colosseum and the Vatican are the two biggest attractions in Rome, and both need a little planning. Here is how to book, what to see and where to stay.
The links to the hotels and experiences are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
A Colosseum ticket also covers the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill next door. You choose a time slot for the Colosseum, so book early.
The arena floor and underground: require special tickets or a guided tour.
Named tickets: bring ID.
The Roman Forum: allow at least a couple of hours. This was where the temples and squares of ancient Rome stood.
Book the experience: See tickets and tours in Rome
The Vatican
The Vatican is the smallest state in the world and home to St Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
The museums hold one of the largest art collections in the world, and the route ends in the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's ceiling. Book a time slot in advance. The museums are usually closed on Sundays, except the last Sunday of the month.
St Peter's Basilica
Entry to St Peter's is free, but expect a queue at security. Climb the dome for views over St Peter's Square and the city.
Dress code
Cover shoulders and knees in the churches and museums of the Vatican.
Where to stay in Rome
Stay central so you can walk to most sights and take a taxi or the metro to the Vatican.
Palazzo Manfredi
Opposite the Colosseum.
Palazzo Manfredi
Palazzo Manfredi is directly opposite the Colosseum, with a roof terrace and a restaurant looking at the arena. As close as you can get.
Book your stay: See rooms at Palazzo Manfredi
Hassler Roma
At the top of the Spanish Steps.
Hassler Roma
The Hassler sits at the top of the Spanish Steps with views over the city. One of Rome's classic hotels.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hassler Roma
Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie
Hotel De Russie is between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, with a large garden and a spa. A calm spot right in the centre.
Book your stay: See rooms at Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie
Hotel Eden - Dorchester Collection
Near the Villa Borghese.
Hotel Eden - Dorchester Collection
The Eden is close to the Villa Borghese, with a roof terrace and views over the city. Elegant and peaceful.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Eden - Dorchester Collection
When is the best time to visit Rome?
April, May and October: pleasant temperatures, but popular months. Book early.
July and August: very hot. Visit the big sights early in the day.
Winter: fewer people and shorter queues.
Colosseum and Vatican FAQ
Does the Colosseum ticket include the Roman Forum?
Yes, the standard ticket covers the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.
Do I need to book the Vatican Museums in advance?
It is strongly recommended, especially in high season.
Is St Peter's Basilica free?
Yes, but there is a security check and often a queue.
What is the dress code at the Vatican?
Cover shoulders and knees.
Where should I stay?
In the centre, near the Colosseum or the Spanish Steps.