Background

Circus Maximus: The Heart of Ancient Roman Spectacle

Explore Circus Maximus, the ancient chariot racing stadium in Rome, where history and excitement converge in a breathtaking setting.

★★★★★4.5 (55913)

Discover the grandeur of Circus Maximus, the ancient Roman chariot racing stadium, where history comes alive through its impressive ruins and vibrant past. This iconic landmark offers visitors a glimpse into the exhilarating world of ancient entertainment, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of Rome's historical skyline.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Circus Maximus

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, 00186, IT
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Circus Maximus.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Bring a picnic and enjoy it on the grassy areas surrounding the ruins, taking in the historical ambiance.
Check the local event calendar for concerts or festivals held at Circus Maximus for a unique experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as the grounds can be uneven and require some walking.

Discover more about Circus Maximus

Circus Maximus, once the grand center of chariot racing in ancient Rome, stands as a monumental testament to the city’s rich historical tapestry. This vast arena, capable of holding up to 250,000 spectators, hosted thrilling races that captivated the hearts of Romans for centuries. Today, visitors can stroll through the sprawling grounds that echo with the sounds of cheering crowds and the thunder of horse hooves. The impressive ruins, though partially restored, provide a vivid picture of the scale and grandeur that defined this iconic venue. As you wander through the site, take a moment to visualize the excitement that once filled the air as charioteers raced for glory amidst the cheers of thousands. The surrounding area is equally enchanting, dotted with parks and green spaces, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely picnic or a quiet moment of reflection. Numerous walking paths invite tourists to explore further, leading to other significant landmarks nearby. The Circus Maximus is not just a historical site; it is a vibrant hub of activity where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, and events that continue to breathe life into its ancient stones. Do not miss the opportunity to capture stunning photographs against the backdrop of the ruins, especially at sunset when the golden light casts a warm glow over the site. For a richer experience, consider joining a guided tour that delves into the stories and legends that shaped this iconic location, ensuring that your visit is as informative as it is memorable.

Explore places near Circus Maximus

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of Circus Maximus

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Walking

    From the entrance of Vatican Necropolis, head towards the Visitor Center and exit onto Via di Porta Angelica. Turn left onto Via di Porta Angelica and continue straight until you reach the intersection with Via della Conciliazione. Cross the street, and you will find yourself facing St. Peter's Basilica. Walk along Via della Conciliazione towards the Tiber River. Once you reach the end of the street, turn right onto Lungotevere in Augusta. Continue walking along the riverbank until you see the bridge Ponte Palatino. Cross the bridge and you will arrive at the Circus Maximus.

    Public Transport

    From Vatican Necropolis, walk to the nearest bus stop on Via della Conciliazione. Take bus number 87 towards 'Termini' and get off at the 'Circo Massimo' stop. From there, it's a short walk to Circus Maximus. Head south on Via del Circo Massimo and you will see the historic site ahead.

    A brief summary to Circus Maximus

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Plik:Tomb of Pius VIII St Peter Basilica 05 2018 0485.jpg – Wikipedia,  wolna encyklopedia

    More about Vatican Necropolis

    Discover the Vatican Necropolis, an ancient burial ground beneath St. Peter's Basilica, offering a unique glimpse into early Christian history and Rome's rich past.

    Tell me more about Vatican Necropolis

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.