Where to stay near Rome’s Colosseum

A great amphitheatre built beside the Roman Forum – at the foot of the Palatine Hill – the Colosseum was once the stage for the gladiatorial battles that entertained the Roman Empire. Follow in the footsteps of the ancient Romans and climb sun-baked, stone steps to imagine the roaring crowds and gory entertainment down below.

Here are four of the best guest houses with Colosseum views, so you can sightsee before you even step outside.

Tre R Colosseo

From Tre R Colosseo, you only have to step outside to see the Colosseum towering above the front door. Inside this guest house, the suites feature neutral-tones, wood flooring and modern en suite bathrooms. Right next door, Oppio Caffè serves a continental breakfast on a pavement terrace facing the Colosseum. When you’re done, it’s a short stroll around the corner to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill archaeological site.

Relais Terme Di Tito

Just 100 metres from the Colosseum, Relais Terme Di Tito occupies the top two floors of a historic building. Its six, recently-renovated guest rooms feature antique furniture and freestanding bathtubs. Each room looks out over several landmarks, whether it’s the Colosseum or the Capitoline, Vittoriano or Gianicolo Hills. And as if that wasn’t enough, the roof terrace has a panoramic view and is an ideal setting for a breakfast of homemade cakes, flaky croissants and freshly-brewed Italian coffee.

Colosseum Corner

As the name suggests, Colosseum Corner is right around the corner from the Colosseum. Its suites overlook either the ancient amphitheatre, Piazza Venezia or the Domus Aurea palace – and the roof terrace has views of all three. This boutique guest house is right on the edge of Monti, a village-like district of cobbled lanes and ochre houses. Wander around and you’ll find restaurants serving great-value Italian food, like the crisp, wood-fired pizzas of Trattoria Al Tettarello.

Domus Aurea Relais

The views from the roof terrace at Domus Aurea Relais are enough to give some guests goosebumps, being able to see the Colosseum up close and all of Rome spread out in front of you. Throughout the airy rooms and the breakfast area, bright white walls are broken up by stand-out details, including gilt-edged mirrors and hanging tapestries. The Colosseum and Roman Forum are both within five minutes’ walk, as are the restaurants of the low-key Monti district – ask owner Fabrizio and he’ll recommend some favourites.