Rome in February - what are the lines like?

We went in November, which I would think would be similar to February. Little to nothing in the way of lines. We did have Vatican reservations, but we could have done without them.

Roma Pass is worth it in my opinion, and does help avoid any lines at the Colosseum. Vatican sights are not covered. If you will see 2 or more of the sights that are covered, such as the Colosseum and Borghese Gallery, and will use the 3-day bus/metro pass, get a Roma Pass. If you will only be in Rome long enough to visit the Colosseum and Vatican, you probably won't need it (and will be missing out on much of what Rome has to offer!)

Figure Roma Pass this way:

Pass is 23 euro

colosseum is 17 euro
four metro rides are 4 euro
next non-vatican attraction is free

Your ahead after that, even if the rest of the attractions are only at a minor discount. Plus you get to keep riding the metro at no cost.

One exception, and I can't remember when it is, but Italy has a "Culture Week" every year and during this time everything is free.

The Culture Week is in late May, if memory serves.
We were lucky enuf to hit Roma when it was happening , in 2004. February should be unhurried and much less touristed. Agree that a pass is a good idea for the reasons cited

I went in late January one time, no lines at all.

We were in Rome in Feb. two years ago, most likely be there again this year (have to go for business for a week) and lines were minimal. Weather was pretty good, 50's and 60's, and as long as it is not raining, it is a wonderful time to be there.

I may be wrong, but I seem to recall the last Sunday of the month (it may have only been the Sunday we were there) can have many of the public sites open for free, which despite sounding nice means crowds even in February, more so if the sun is shining.

While in Rome, don't miss the Borghese. Roma Pass will cover entrance fee, but you need to make a reservation in advance.

We went in March a year or so back and were really worried about lines then because it happened to be Holy Week, but even with that factor the lines this time of year were negligible. I wouldn't make a reservation for the Colosseum--just follow Rick's advice and buy your combo ticket at the Forum entrance. The Vatican museum did have a line when it opened when we were there but it moves surprisingly quickly. If you want to be really cautious and/or if you are on a tight schedule you might want a Vatican reservation but otherwise it's probably not necessary.