Tickets: how much it costs

Entry to the Museo dell'Ara Pacis requires an inexpensive ticket (rough guide only, check current prices on the official website), with reduced rates for eligible visitors and free admission for certain categories. The museum belongs to Rome's Musei in Comune network, so it follows the same pricing rules. Ticket prices may change during temporary exhibitions.

MIC Card

If you live in Rome, you can use the MIC Card (for residents), which grants unlimited entry to the city's civic museums, the Ara Pacis included, for a full year at a token price.

Opening hours

The museum is usually open every day, with continuous hours from morning to evening (times are indicative, check the official website). Last entry is normally about an hour before closing. It may close on a few public holidays (for example January 1, May 1, December 25).

Free admission

There are free-admission days throughout the year (City of Rome initiatives). These are the best value, but also the busiest.

Planning your visit to the Ara Pacis?

My Rome Driver takes you into the historic center with a private driver and waits for you for the next stop. Flat rate, door to door.

Check availability and request a quote

Reply within 30 minutes · Flat rate · Free cancellation up to 24h before

The original colors

An experience not to miss when it's available: in certain periods the museum runs projections that recreate the original colors of the Ara Pacis. The altar was in fact originally painted in vivid colors, and seeing it "recolored" through the video projections helps you picture how it looked two thousand years ago. Check whether this installation is running on the official website.

Tips for your visit

  • Buy online to skip the line, especially on free-admission days.
  • Check for the color projections: when they're on, they're worth the trip.
  • Pair it with Piazza del Popolo: it's just a few minutes on foot.
  • Natural light: Meier's glass case bathes the altar in beautiful light; afternoon is ideal.

Frequently asked questions

How much is an Ara Pacis ticket? The price is modest, with statutory reduced and free admissions, in line with the Musei in Comune network. Exhibitions can change the price. Check the rates on the official website.

Is the MIC Card valid at the Ara Pacis? Yes: the MIC Card (for Rome residents) grants entry to the museum, which is part of the Musei in Comune network.

What are the Museo dell'Ara Pacis opening hours? It's generally open every day with continuous hours; last entry is about an hour before closing. It may close on some public holidays. Check the official website.

When can you get in for free? On certain free-admission days promoted by the City of Rome. They're great value but also crowded.

Can you see the original colors of the Ara Pacis? In certain periods the museum runs video projections that recreate the altar's original colors. Check availability on the official website.

Read also

Book a driver to the Museo dell'Ara Pacis

Flat rate · ZTL access · Door to door

Article #353 · Category: Practical · Updated: May 2026