colosseum for the millionth time

If you don't want to stand in lines then Rome is not the place to go;-)

Not merely a million, there are a gazillion (that's equal to 3.1415 humongus bodacious metric dozens) of this question. I can picture the Web Maestro weeping as his Sticky re how to search previous postings goes unappreciated. So sad. So sad.

Check Roma Pass web-site. I think it is a skip the line pass to two architectural sites in a day or two days. Not sure, but check. Besides it gives you use of mass transit in Rome for three days and other discounts. Try these web-sites also. I didn't use it them, so I don't know how it's going to work. http://www.italy-museums.com/index.php#7 http://www.rome.info/

The Roma Pass is indeed the way to go! You will sail right past those uninformed people who just show up! And you will save money. I doubt the Catacombs of San Calisto will have a big line, but their website says you can buy in advance using PayPal.

You can pre-purchase entry tickets to the colosseum combo and/or book a tour at: http://www.pierreci.it/home-page/en/museums-and-monuments/colosseo.aspx You can choose the "print at home" or "collect onsite" option. These tickets allow you to bypass the lines. They also allow you entry into the forum and palatine hill. The ticket is valid for two consecutive days but you only get one entry into each site. Donna

Donna: The link you provided was pretty informative with information on the Roma Pass but it also had a link for a Campania Artecard Plus pass for the Naples area. Have you any experience with this card? I'm planning a trip to Rome, Naples & Sorrento in Nov 2012 - creating the travel budget. Thanks for any input. I enjoy reading your posts.

I just want to say thank you to all of you whom have helped with advice and sorry to the web maestro for making him cry. This travelers helpline has been the best!!

Linda, I have not used the Naples card. You might want to check the Naples forum on Trip Advisor to see what the DE's have to say about it. Donna

Get there early and don't worry about it. We went on a Sunday mmorning in August, about 10 AM. The line, which is not visible from outside, took about 10 minutes, tops.

Bob, the line at the colosseum, even in the off season can be up to an hour or more long. Buying a romapass or advance tickets is one way to avoid these lines. No one can count on just showing up and not having a line. I'm glad it worked out for you but that is the exception and not the rule. Donna

Call 39 0639967450 and you book for the underground Colosseum.It will give English prompts. Book, pay and get email confirmation. Then I will buy the RomaPass at the Forum and then go to the Colosseum upper and lower. Hope this helps. I also called for the Borgessey( PARDON SPELLING) and got a confirmation # for the afternoon. I leave on Thursday. I have made many weep on this site BUT I do appreciate all who have been patient and kind. I hope to do the same for the next excited traveler
Pat

Thanks Donna - I'll try TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet forum regarding the Naples card. Happy travels