Rome Colosseum Ticket PM Entry and 48 Hours Hop on Hop Off bus

Explore Rome’s highlights with skip-the-line access to the Colosseum and a flexible 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour—great for a relaxed, immersive city experience.

Discovering Rome with the Colosseum & Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Rome and want a way to see the major sights without the hassle of long lines or rigid schedules, this Rome Colosseum Ticket with PM Entry and 48-Hours Hop-On Hop-Off bus might be a good fit. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but from what’s offered, it sounds like a practical option that balances convenience with the chance to explore at your own pace.

What really stands out is the direct access to the Colosseum in the afternoon — meaning no waiting in long queues, which can be a major relief in busy season. Plus, the 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus offers the flexibility to see a wide array of sights around the city without the need for multiple tickets or confusing public transport schedules.

One potential consideration is the cost, which at $72.11 per person, might seem steep if you’re budget-conscious. Also, note that public transportation tickets are not included, so you might want to budget for that if you plan to move around outside the bus route. This tour suits travelers who prefer a structured yet flexible way to enjoy Rome’s most famous attractions without sacrificing spontaneity.

If you’re after an efficient way to combine must-see ruins with relaxed city touring, this experience could be ideal. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want a straightforward, rundown without the stress of managing tickets and transportation on their own.

Key Points

  • Skip-the-line access to the Colosseum saves you hours of waiting in busy crowds.
  • The combination of historic sites (Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum) provides a well-rounded glimpse into ancient Rome.
  • The 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus offers the freedom to explore at your own pace with audio guides in multiple languages.
  • Flexibility means you can adapt your sightseeing schedule around your interests and energy levels.
  • The price includes both entry to major sites and the bus ticket, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
  • No public transportation tickets are included, so plan accordingly if you want to explore beyond the bus route.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Colosseum: A Piece of Living History

The highlight of this tour is, of course, the Colosseum, Italy’s most iconic landmark. The PM entry option allows you to bypass the long lines that frequently clog the morning crowds, which is a genuine perk during peak season. With direct entry, you can arrive relaxed and start exploring immediately.

The Colosseum’s size—a circumference of 5,220 meters and a towering 48 meters high—still impresses even in photos. You’ll walk through its ancient corridors, imagining gladiators and spectators from nearly 2,000 years ago. The ticket also includes access to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, where ruins and ancient ruins come vividly to life, letting you picture what the city once was.

A traveler who reviewed this experience in July mentioned that “the afternoon entrance worked without any problems,” which, after dealing with crowded mornings elsewhere, sounds like a real plus. The ease of entry combined with the opportunity to explore these grand ruins at a leisurely pace adds considerable value to the ticket.

The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Exploring Rome at Ease

The 48-hour bus ticket is a feature many find appealing. It’s not just about transportation but about having a comfortable way to see Rome’s highlights without the fatigue of walking or navigating complex public transit systems. The route covers major sights, and with audio guides in eight languages, you get some context while you’re on the move.

From our perspective, the ability to hop on and off at your own pace means you can spend more time at places that catch your interest—whether that’s the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, or lesser-known neighborhoods. The reviews indicate that the bus was “just perfect in the heat,” making it a good option for warm days, especially if you’re traveling during the summer.

The Practicalities and Considerations

The tour operates daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, giving you ample flexibility to plan your day. The confirmation is received at booking, and most travelers find the process straightforward. Since this is a non-refundable experience, it’s best to plan your dates carefully.

One thing to keep in mind is that public transportation tickets are not included. If you plan to go beyond the bus route or visit other parts of Rome, you’ll need to purchase additional tickets. Also, the cost of about $72.11 per person might seem high for some, but when you factor in the savings on tickets and the convenience of skip-the-line access, many find it worthwhile.

Authentic Traveler Insights

A reviewer shared in July that “the entrance to the Colosseum in the afternoon worked without any problems,” which reassures potential visitors about the ease of planning. They also appreciated the “perfect” bus experience in the heat—highlighting how practical this is during summer months.

This tour also suits those who prefer a structured approach to sightseeing but want the flexibility to adapt their schedule. It’s not a guided tour with constant commentary, but rather a combination of fast access to historic sites and a comfortable way to explore the city.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want efficient access to the highlights without the hassle of waiting in lines or managing complicated transport. It offers great value for those interested in history and architecture, but who also want the freedom to craft their own day.

If you’re traveling with a group or family and prefer everything organized in advance, this could be a stress-free choice. However, if you’re looking for a guided, in-depth historical narration, you might want to supplement this with additional guided tours.

This tour works well for first-timers eager to tick off Rome’s must-sees, and for those who prefer a relaxed, comfortable way to explore the city’s outdoor landmarks and ruins. It’s less suited for travelers seeking an immersive guided experience but perfect for those who want to combine convenience with independence.

Ready to Book?

Rome Colosseum Ticket PM Entry and 48 Hours Hop on Hop Off bus



5.0

100% 5-star

“We spent a few days in July as a couple in Rome and booked the Citypass. The entrance to the Colosseum in the afternoon worked without any problems…”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Jul 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entry to the Colosseum in the afternoon?
Yes, the ticket provides PM access, so you can arrive in the afternoon, helping you avoid morning crowds.

Are the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill included?
Absolutely, your ticket includes entry to both, so you can explore these important ruins along with the Colosseum.

How long do I have to use the hop-on hop-off bus?
Your bus ticket is valid for 48 hours from the first use, giving you plenty of flexibility to explore Rome at your own pace.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers direct entry to the Colosseum in the afternoon, including Palatine Hill and Roman Forum, as well as the 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket with audio guides.

Are public transportation tickets included?
No, this does not include public transportation tickets outside the bus route, so plan to purchase those separately if needed.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on historic sites and flexible schedule could appeal to older children interested in history. Always consider your children’s comfort with walking and outdoor sightseeing.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so be sure of your dates.

How do I receive my tickets?
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and you’ll likely receive your tickets electronically to scan at entry points.

What are the opening hours?
The tour and sites are open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily between May and October in 2025-2026.

Is there a guided tour included?
No, but the hop-on hop-off bus includes audio guides in eight languages, providing some background as you explore.

If you’re looking for an experience that balances cost, convenience, and flexibility, this package could be a good pick. It simplifies your sightseeing plans while still allowing you to enjoy Rome’s top sights comfortably. Just remember to plan your timing around the afternoon entrance to the Colosseum and consider additional transport for exploring beyond the bus route.