Rome: Colosseum: security measures: wait times

Please be advised that due to new mandatory security regulations every visitor must wait in a security line prior to entering the Colosseum. For safety reasons the Colosseum can accommodate a maximum of 3,000 people at once and every visitor must pass through a metal detector. The Colosseum previously instituted security changes disallowing all large backpacks, suitcases, trolleys, and large purses.

These new measures, and the fact that there is only one metal detector at the museum, are causing long delays at the entrance to the site, even for pre-booked visitors.

Who is affected by the new security regulations?

Every visitor. Including regular and ‘Skip the line’ ticket holders and visitors who booked a guided tour.

What are the wait times to enter the site?

The wait times vary from about 1 hr 30 min to 2 hrs, but Select Italy expects the average time could go up as we are entering the high season. Saturday and Sunday currently experience the longest wait times.

Should we discourage clients to visit the Colosseum?

No, but clients must be informed about the long wait caused by the new security regulations.

With more than 6 million visits in 2015, the Colosseum is Rome’s most visited attraction and travelers who want to visit the interior of the site should take into consideration the long wait times and plan their visit accordingly. 

Selectitaly.com