Ciao, fellow adventurers! I’m Eni, your passionate Roman guide. After years of exploring the Colosseum with families of all ages, I’ve seen just about every travel mistake in the book—and helped turn them into unforgettable memories! If you’re bringing kids or teens to Rome, read this before your visit. Here’s how to have a fun, stress-free Colosseum experience that everyone in your family will remember.
1. Underestimating the Lines
Mistake: Arriving at the Colosseum at midday, expecting to walk right in.
How to avoid it:
The Colosseum is one of the world’s most visited landmarks. In peak season, lines for tickets and security can stretch for hours—tough for little ones (and even tougher for parents).
Fix: Always book skip-the-line tickets or, even better, a private tour that handles entry for you. Early mornings or late afternoons mean fewer crowds and cooler temps.
2. Forgetting to Prep the Kids
Mistake: Telling your family, “Today we’re seeing the Colosseum!” – and expecting instant excitement.
How to avoid it:
A little storytelling goes a long way. Before your visit, share a fun Colosseum fact: Did you know some gladiators became the celebrities of their day, with fan clubs and graffiti?
Fix: Let kids (and teens!) ask questions or look at photos/videos before the tour. On my tours, I use stories and games to get everyone engaged from the start.
3. Wearing the Wrong Shoes
Mistake: Seeing the Colosseum as “just one stop” and forgetting about all the walking.
How to avoid it:
Ancient stones and stairs abound inside and nearby at the Roman Forum. There’s nowhere for tired feet to rest.
Fix: Dress everyone—parents included!—in comfortable walking shoes. Leave the fancy sandals at home.
4. Not Bringing Snacks & Water
Mistake: Assuming you’ll find a snack bar or water fountain inside.
How to avoid it:
While there are some facilities, lines can be long and choices limited. Hungry or thirsty kids aren’t happy travelers.
Fix: Pack water bottles and some light snacks. Rome’s public water fountains are safe and everywhere, so refill as you go. (Gelato reward after the tour is always a winner!)
5. Trying to See Everything at Once
Mistake: Treating the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill as a quick checklist.
How to avoid it:
These sites are HUGE and full of stories. Exploring them in one rushed swoop equals tired, cranky kids and glazed-over teens.
Fix: Prioritize what your family will enjoy most, and don’t be afraid to slow down. A private guide tailors the tour to your family’s energy and pace.
6. Forgetting Sun Protection
Mistake: Visiting in summer with no plan for Rome’s famous sunshine.
How to avoid it:
Shade is scarce inside the Colosseum and on the Forum hill.
Fix: Wear hats, sunscreen, and bring sunglasses—even on cloudy days. I always build in shady breaks and know the best breezy spots!
7. Missing the Magic of Storytelling
Mistake: Focusing only on the ruins—and missing the human stories behind them.
How to avoid it:
Kids and teens remember stories, not dates and stone walls.
Fix: Turn the monuments into a living adventure: imagine the roar of the crowd, the secrets of the gladiators, and the games that once thrilled emperors and children alike. This is where a family-focused guide (like me!) can make all the difference.
BONUS: Make Your Colosseum Day Unforgettable
Want the entire family to be excited, engaged, and smiling in your Roman adventure photos?
Book a private family tour designed for curious kids, opinionated teens, and relaxed parents! I craft every Colosseum journey with stories, fun challenges, and special stops to make sure everyone leaves with a new favorite memory.
Plan Your Family’s Next Roman Adventure
Ciao! See you at the arena—let’s make history come to life together!
