Colosseum Underground

On our trip in 2012, we made a point of doing the underground version. Seeing the gladiator/beast passageways, and drains for the flooded water used for the mock naval battles up close really can't be seen from above, and it was our only way to get onto the reconstructed floor platform, too. Everyone else is climbing up, down, and around the seating area (which we did when we were finished with the underground and floor part of out visit), but you're right -- if you're gong for more than a quick photo op and to just say you've been there, then the full experience means seeing as much of the place as you can.

Speaking of underground, don't miss visiting the relatively nearby Basilica of San Clemente al Laterano. It's a 12th Century church with a wonderful interior, built on top of a 4th Century church, with the remains of 1st Century Roman streets, homes, and a pagan Mithras temple underneath all of that. Lots of history in one spot, to appreciate by descending a few stairs!

Definitely book a tour that includes the Colosseum underground -- we were just there with that tour in August (early morning too!) and it was excellent. As others have said, you'll see everything by visiting the underground.

Thanks so much for the help! :D