Overview
Circus Maximus is an ancient chariot racing stadium in Rome, Italy. It was the first and largest stadium built in ancient Rome and is considered a significant historical site.
It was the venue for major public events, including chariot races, and has a rich history dating back to the 6th century BC.
Location
Address
Via del Circo Massimo, Rome
Neighborhood: Circus Maximus
Coordinates
41.885900, 12.490600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring flowers
- • pleasant weather for walking
summer
hot
- • extended daylight hours
autumn
mild to cool
- • fall colors
- • cooler weather
winter
cold
- • holiday decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Bring water
- Check opening hours
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • uneven surfaces
- • hot weather in summer
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, light clothing in summer, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing for a historical site
Booking Tips
- • at least a few days
- • official website or trusted third-party sites
- • usually 24 hours in advance
- • available for online bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Rome: Ancient History Guide
Size: 100 MB
Features: interactive map, audio guide, tickets, historical information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
Distance: 35 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It is a key part of Rome's ancient history and offers a unique glimpse into the past.
Historical Significance: It was the largest stadium in ancient Rome and hosted major public events, including chariot races.
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- Look for guided tours that offer unique insights into the history of the Circus
Local Recommendations
- • Try authentic Roman cuisine at nearby trattorias
- • Visit the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
- • Ask for a guide who speaks Italian for a more immersive experience
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Italian, English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the scale
Result: Stunning ancient ruins with beautiful lighting
Central Spina
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Low-angle shots to emphasize the ruins
Result: Dramatic photographs of the central spina
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Roman Forum
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Historical Site
Palatine Hill
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Historical Site
Bocca della Verità
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 25,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Combine with a visit to the Roman Forum"
- "Bring a map or use a guided tour app"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Rome: Small-Group Tour of Caracalla Baths and Circus Maximus
Rome: Colosseum Express Tour with Forum & Palatine Access
Rome' s 8 Best Highlights Half Day Private Tour
Colosseum Underground All Access Tour with Ancient Rome
Rome Highlights & Colosseum Private Luxury Tour
Discover Rome Highlights in 4 hours
Full Day Civitavecchia Shore Private Excursion of Rome Highlights & Colosseum
Full Day Best of Rome and the Catacomb - Private tour by car
Rome: Private Walking Tour with Highlights & Gelato Tasting
Rome and Vatican Private Day Car Tour
Rome E-Bike Tour: Hidden Gems & Food
Essential Rome Private Highlights Tour
Full Day Rome Tour in 7 Hours
Rome's Best Guided Tour Colosseum and Vatican Museums 2 Days
Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia port to Rome
Rome Private Tour with Official Tour Guide for the Vatican Museum
Rome in 2 Full Days Private Tour
Discover the famous seven hills of Rome with the calessino bee
Rome for Kids: Highlights & Colosseum Adventure
Rome Private Walking Tour with Vatican Museums and Ancient Rome
Full Day Rome Private Tour with Colosseum Included
Rome Private Driving Tour Sightseeing of the Eternal city
Private Shore Excursion - Best of Rome from Civitavecchia Port
Afternoon Tour of Rome with English Speaking Driver
Quick Info
Available Tours
687
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
25,000
Adult Entry
Free (special exhibits may have fees)