The Colosseum is an iconic landmark and if you’re visiting Rome, it’s on your must see list. Because it’s so popular, it sees millions of visitors every year. This makes picking the best time to visit the Colosseum an important decision. When you decide to go can greatly impact your experience. This guide will help you figure out when to make your trip to this fascinating landmark.
This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you purchase from the links at no additional cost to you.
WHEN TO VISIT THE COLOSSEUM
The best time to visit the Colosseum for families is during the spring and early summer (April to June) or fall (September to October). These months offer mild weather, making it comfortable for children to explore without the intense heat of the Roman summer.
As far as time of day, visiting in the morning avoids the peak crowds and afternoon heat, allowing you to enjoy a fun, comfortable experience at the Colosseum.
UNDERSTANDING THE SEASONS OF ROME
Spring (March to May)
Spring is an excellent time to visit Rome with your family. The weather is mild, with temperatures typically between 52F and 68F.
This is the perfect temperature for walking and exploring the Colosseum without the extreme summer sun bearing down on you.
The natural bloom of spring adds a vibrant backdrop to the historic area making it all the more scenic.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is another great time to visit Rome. The intense heat of the summer has faded away, and the large crowds have decreased from the peaks of the summer.
September is ideal because it’s still warm like summer and even October with its cooler days makes for great times to explore Rome and the Colosseum.
Winter (December to February)
If you don’t mind the cooler temperatures, then winter can be a great time to visit the Colosseum with your family. The crowds are minimal so you won’t have to wait in long lines or deal with crowded tours.
You can then take your time and explore without feeling rushed or crowded. Temperatures will be between 37 to 59F, but doable as long as you layer up.
Summer (June to August)
Even though summer is the most popular time for families to visit the Colosseum, it can also be the most uncomfortable. Between the strong sun and scorching temperatures that can easily soar past 86F it’s a less than ideal time to enjoy the Colosseum.
Since summer may be the only time for your family to visit, you can do what our family did and visit in early to mid-June and early in the day. It was still warm but it wasn’t overbearing.
Going in June also means that you’ll miss out on the worst of the crowds.
BEST TIMES OF DAY TO VISIT THE COLOSSEUM WITH FAMILY
Early morning: An early morning visit is the best especially if you’re visiting in the summer. The Colosseum opens at 8:30 am, so booking tickets as early as possible can make your trip more enjoyable.
This allows you to avoid a lot of the crowds and large tour groups as well as the hottest part of the day.
Late afternoon: Arriving later in the day at around 3 PM to 4 PM is another good time to visit. By this time many tourists are starting to leave which will make it less crowded.
This time may also work with nap schedules and avoid most of the heat.
TIPS FOR A FAMILY-FRIENDLY VISIT
Purchase Tickets in Advance: To avoid long waiting times, buy your tickets online before your visit. This not only saves time but also secures your entry during busy periods.
Family Tours: Consider booking a family-friendly guided tour. These tours are tailored to engage children with the history of the Colosseum in an entertaining and informative way.
Prepare for the Weather: Ensure everyone is dressed comfortably for the weather. Use sunscreen during the summer months, and carry water bottles to stay hydrated. During winter, wear layers to keep warm.
Plan for Breaks: There are few shaded areas inside the Colosseum, so plan for periodic breaks during your tour to rest, especially if traveling with young children or elderly family members. Since there is so much to see, taking breaks will help you be able to stay longer and see more of the site.
Stroller Accessibility: While the Colosseum is partially accessible, some areas may be difficult to navigate with a stroller. Consider a baby carrier for infants and toddlers.
ENJOY YOUR FAMILY TRIP TO THE COLOSSEUM
Choosing the time to visit the Colosseum requires consideration of the weather when you’re able to visit as well as the crowds. While spring and fall offer the best times to visit, with a bit of planning, summer can work for your family as well. What else do you need to know for a trip to the Colosseum? Check out our essential guide for visiting the Colosseum with kids as well as our article on the best tips for visiting Italy with kids. Safe travels!