Palatine Hill
Explore the legendary birthplace of Rome and the opulent ruins of imperial palaces with breathtaking views over the Roman Forum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Palatine Hill
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the legendary birthplace of Rome and the opulent ruins of imperial palaces with breathtaking views over the Roman Forum.
"The views from Palatine Hill over the Roman Forum are absolutely spectacular and a must-see!"
🚶 Use the Via di San Gregorio Entrance
Skip long lines at the main Forum entrance by using the Via di San Gregorio entrance near Circus Maximus metro.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring plenty of water, as shade is limited and water fountains ('nasoni') can be sparse on the hill.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Forum Views
Overlooking the Roman Forum
Capture breathtaking, sweeping views of the Roman Forum from the Palatine Hill's belvedere points. It's a photographer's dream!

Imperial Palaces
Domus Augustana
Explore the ruins of opulent imperial palaces, including the House of Augustus, offering a glimpse into ancient Roman luxury.

Legendary Founding Site
Romulus's Hut site
Stand on the very spot where, legend has it, Romulus founded the city of Rome in 753 BC. A truly historic location.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine Your Tickets Wisely
Beat the Heat and the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Use the Via di San Gregorio Entrance
Skip long lines at the main Forum entrance by using the Via di San Gregorio entrance near Circus Maximus metro.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring plenty of water, as shade is limited and water fountains ('nasoni') can be sparse on the hill.
🎧 Download Rick Steves' Audio Guide
Enhance your self-guided tour with Rick Steves' free audio guide for historical context and insights.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Use the Via di San Gregorio Entrance
Skip long lines at the main Forum entrance by using the Via di San Gregorio entrance near Circus Maximus metro.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring plenty of water, as shade is limited and water fountains ('nasoni') can be sparse on the hill.
🎧 Download Rick Steves' Audio Guide
Enhance your self-guided tour with Rick Steves' free audio guide for historical context and insights.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is essential.
🗺️ Consider a Guided Tour
For deeper historical understanding, a guided tour can bring the ruins to life, especially if you're not a history buff.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Palatine Hill for its stunning panoramic views of the Roman Forum and its historical significance as the legendary founding site of Rome. Many appreciate that it's included with the Colosseum ticket, offering great value. However, some find the ruins less visually striking than the Colosseum itself without a guide, and the lack of shade and ample water sources can be a challenge during hot weather.
"So much to see. You can spend a day there easy. Good to purchase tickets along with the Colosseum so you can use them the next day in case you don't manage both the same day. For an additional fee of 2 Eur per person you can upgrade your tickets to see some " super sights" like the musem, house of Augustus, etc. Much better to visit in spring of autumn as can be hard to spend a day on the sun during the summer . Tickets are worth every cent!"
D D
"This is a huge area, every corner has some historical significance and background. It's like a hill with garden on top and lots and lots of archeological items and monuments everywhere. Also from this height you get a nice view of the Colosseum on the other side and you walk towards the forum and temple of Venus. Must visit area. If you take a guided tour it can be a little boring in this part because there is so much that a guide can explain and go on."
Sujay Sreekumar
"I suggest going to this place first if you are doing all of the Colosseum area in 1 day. It offers great overview of the area and it gets your biggest climbs out of the way early when it is cool. The historical significance of this place is amazing and it is quite beautiful. A great place to start."
Jason Cobb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Palatine Hill via public transport. The closest metro station is 'Colosseo' on Line B. Alternatively, several bus lines stop nearby. Many visitors opt to use the entrance on Via di San Gregorio, which is often less crowded than the main Forum entrance.
Yes, the nearest metro station is 'Colosseo' on Line B, which is a short walk from the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum complex.
Many travelers recommend using the entrance on Via di San Gregorio, especially if you're heading to Palatine Hill first, as it often has significantly shorter lines than the main Roman Forum entrance.
Yes, your combined ticket allows entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill within 24 hours of your Colosseum timed entry. You can visit them before or after your Colosseum visit.
Walking is the primary way to explore Palatine Hill and the adjacent Roman Forum. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, a single ticket grants access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. It's highly recommended to purchase these tickets online in advance to secure your entry and avoid long queues.
The cost is usually bundled with the Colosseum and Roman Forum ticket. As of recent information, this combined ticket is around €18, but it's best to check the official Parco Colosseo website for the most current pricing.
Tickets are best purchased online through the official Parco Colosseo website to guarantee entry and avoid scams. Third-party vendors are also available but may be more expensive.
Opening hours vary seasonally but generally align with the Colosseum and Roman Forum. It's advisable to check the official Parco Colosseo website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times for your visit date.
No, Palatine Hill is part of the same archaeological park as the Roman Forum and Colosseum, and is typically accessed with a combined ticket.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Palatine Hill features the ruins of imperial palaces, including the House of Augustus and the House of Livia, offering insights into the lives of Roman emperors. You'll also find stunning viewpoints overlooking the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus.
To fully explore Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, allocate at least 3-4 hours. Many visitors spend up to 5 hours to appreciate the history and views.
While you can explore independently, a guide or a good audio guide (like Rick Steves') can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the historical context.
Restroom facilities are available within the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum complex, though they can be spaced out. It's wise to use them when you see them.
Yes, even with visual impairments, visitors can enjoy the historical narratives and descriptions of the views, making the experience enriching.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spots are the viewpoints overlooking the Roman Forum, offering panoramic vistas of ancient ruins. Look for elevated terraces for the best shots.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, which can make the ancient ruins glow. Early mornings also provide softer light and fewer people in your shots.
Drone usage is generally prohibited within archaeological sites like Palatine Hill to protect the monuments and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations before flying.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the Roman Forum from Palatine Hill. Including a person in the frame can also help convey the immense scale.
While general photography is allowed, tripods and professional equipment may require special permits. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in enclosed areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and water, as facilities can be spread out. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone. Consider a family-friendly audio guide or a tour that caters to younger audiences to keep them engaged. The open spaces allow for some freedom, but always keep a close eye on children, especially near edges with views.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Pack your own water and snacks to avoid inflated prices within the site. Utilize public transport (metro or bus) to reach the area rather than taxis. Prioritize visiting the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum on the same day as your Colosseum visit to maximize the 24-hour ticket validity.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
For history buffs: Consider booking a specialized guided tour that focuses on the archaeology and history of the Palatine. Research the key figures and events associated with the hill before your visit to deepen your understanding. Take your time to absorb the details of the ruins and imagine the historical context.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Palatine Hill: Rome's Mythical Birthplace
Today, visitors can wander through the remnants of these grand structures, imagining the lives of emperors and the elite. Key sites include the House of Augustus and the House of Livia, which offer a glimpse into domestic life during the Roman Empire. The expansive views from the Palatine Hill over the Roman Forum are unparalleled, providing a breathtaking panorama of ancient Rome's heart.
To truly appreciate Palatine Hill, consider using an audio guide or joining a guided tour. Without context, the ruins can be challenging to interpret. However, even a self-guided visit, armed with a good map and perhaps a guidebook, can be incredibly rewarding. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as the site is large and can get very hot.
Navigating Your Visit: Tickets and Entrances
When it comes to entrances, the main Roman Forum entrance can experience very long queues. A highly recommended alternative is the entrance located on Via di San Gregorio, which is often significantly less crowded and provides direct access to the Palatine Hill area. This can save you considerable time, especially during peak tourist seasons. Purchasing tickets online in advance through the official Parco Colosseo website is strongly advised to avoid disappointment and secure your preferred entry time.
Be aware that the site is extensive and involves a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Staying hydrated is paramount, especially during warmer months, as shade can be limited. Planning your route and understanding the ticket validity are key to a smooth and enjoyable experience at this historically rich location.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit