Mission NWW :: Visting Colosseum

What did I love in Colosseum?

The architecture of course. This is the heart of modern-day architecture, from secret tunnels to underground chambers and seating aisles to the main arena. It is hard to believe that this arena was once filled with water to demonstrate the naval battles and will be emptied almost immediately for the gladiator battles. On average, this amphitheater holds 65000 visitors and only takes a few minutes to seat all of them using 80 gates around the structure, thus today’s stadiums arise. Though the history behind the Colosseum is depressing, thousands of people visit every day to appreciate the architecture of this wonder of the world.

Did the Colosseum meet my expectations?

Absolutely yes, more than that. The details are astonishing. Like any ancient construction, it is hard to understand how those people pulled off such a structure using giant rocks. And the arena is mind-blowing. All the underground chambers for the gladiators and animals, to come up the stage in no time and hydraulic system to mock naval battles is beyond genius. No wonder this building is an example of modern-day stadium structures.

How did local people treat you?

Everyone with whom I interacted treated me like family. Firstly, my Airbnb host cared so much that she even packed snacks for my day trips. And then the girl who missed her bus to help me in a language that I don’t even speak. Next, my tour guide shared brilliant experiences and gave good recommendations. Lastly, the bartender at Irish Shamrock Pub told his alien experience which made me love Rome even more. At night, it got a little scary at some Piazzas with youth partying but if you stayed on the path, there shouldn’t be any issues.

Read more about those experiences here: All Roads Lead to Rome

What are the food options around the Colosseum?

There aren’t too many classic options just around Colosseum but along the Via degli Annibaldi that leads to Trevi Fountain and around it, there are several of them. Especially, roasted chestnuts – Caldarroste at a roadside stall and Pane e Salame sandwich shop are my favorites. Gelato at Giolitti around Pantheon also cannot be missed.

How to reach Colosseum?

Public transportation is the most convenient option. Public transport buses run 24 hours a day from around the city, making them the cheapest and the best. I purchased my pass at Termini Station upon arriving by train from Pisa. The passes range from 100 minutes to weekly, with 100 minutes the most feasible for tourists. This pass did not work from airport transportation, other than that, it works in trams, buses, and Metros. There is a metro station just right under Colosseum and buses from various routes drop just around the corner.

Where did I stay?

I stayed in an Airbnb about 15 min from the Colosseum. This place is suitable for solo travelers, more than the place, the host is more than awesome. She cares for and packs snacks for the travels. It is for this local experience, I prefer Airbnbs. There are luxury hotels like Hotel Hassler and the best hostel Generator Rome. Centro Storico is the neighborhood to stay around the tourist places but Testaccio is the coolest.

What and where to shop?

Of course, Italy is known for its fashion and can’t get any better than Via del Corso. From upscale shops at Spanish Steps to cheap stores spread along, this street cannot be missed. Trastevere has classic stores for perfumes like RomaStore Profumi and other antique stores. Monti is the other neighborhood that can be explored for independent designer shops in classic narrow alleys.

Is it worth all the money and time?

There is a reason why Rome is classified as one-of-a-kind destination. It truly has something for everyone and then there is the Colosseum along with several Roman structures that cannot be missed. They are all worth it and it is not a super expensive trip. It is easy to reach Rome as there are several cheap flights from around Europe and trains are comfortable with time and money. There is a reason for “All Roads Lead to Rome”.

Any tips for first-time visitors?

Rome is a city where the fun doesn’t end ever. Keep a few things in mind to have a safe and pleasant trip:

• Learning a few Italian words is very much recommended as local people do not speak much English. It was a surprise for me and Google Translate did help a lot. per favore – Please; Grazie – Thanks; Scusi – Excuse Me; Uscita – Exit; Aperto – Open; Chiuso – Closed; Ciao – Informal Hi/Bye.
• Lines at the Colosseum can be huge and it is recommended to book tickets in advance online. There are various options to choose from and check them all here. There are special entrances for group tours, like Stern Entrance which gives a panoramic view of the Colosseum but is eligible to enter via group tours. Also, the underground level and top floor are for group tours. If you don’t like to book in advance, you can still book a group tour on-site discussing all the options with private companies for a few extra euros.
• Usually, Colosseum tickets do come with free entrance to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, these places are not to be missed as they have great information and views.
• The Colosseum is also available to visit at night, if interested plan accordingly.
• It is now illegal to eat food in some public Piazzas. Also, now we cannot sit at Spanish Steps, so look for signs and avoid fines.
• Water is not served at many restaurants for free, so be prepared to spend money or BYOB. There are drinking outlets around the Colosseum.
• Use of public transportation is recommended as it is cheap and best. And also it is comfortable to reach the Colosseum as there are Metro train stations and bus stations just next to it.

Will I do it again?

Not really for the Colosseum. It is worth the hype and have visited twice in three days. And now there are so many other places in Italy especially the coast which I would love to explore.

Ciao!

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