The largest stadium of antiquity
The Circus Maximus was the largest stadium in ancient Rome and one of the largest ever built in history: a track stretching more than 600 metres that, by some estimates, could hold up to 150,000 spectators or more. This is where Rome staged its legendary chariot races, the city's best-loved and most popular spectacle, capable of whipping vast crowds into a frenzy.
Today the Circus Maximus is a vast open space in the heart of the city, set in the valley between the Palatine and the Aventine, just steps from the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Mouth of Truth. Although only faint traces of the tiered seating survive, walking across its immense expanse still lets you feel the grandeur of ancient Rome. It isn't just archaeology, either: it's one of Rome's great public spaces, hosting concerts, events and citywide celebrations. Walking it at sunset, with the Palatine lit up in the background, is one of the most evocative — and free — experiences the city has to offer.
Where the crowds went wild for the races
The chariot races (ludi circenses) were far more than a sport: they were a social phenomenon that split the city into rival factions (the factiones: Reds, Whites, Greens and Blues). Charioteers and horses became superstars, betting ran feverishly high, and the emperor himself watched from the imperial box. Up to twelve chariots could compete at once, hurtling around the spina, the central barrier adorned with obelisks and statues. We cover the races in a separate guide: the chariot races at the Circus Maximus.
The obelisks of the spina
Two great Egyptian obelisks once rose on the spina of the Circus Maximus, today among the most famous in Rome:
- The Flaminio obelisk, now standing at the centre of Piazza del Popolo.
- The Lateran obelisk, the tallest Egyptian obelisk in existence, now in front of San Giovanni in Laterano.
They were moved in the 16th century, but their origin shows just how monumental this place once was.
What to see at the Circus Maximus
At first glance the Circus Maximus looks like nothing more than a vast open field, yet it has a great deal to tell anyone who knows how to read it. Here is what you can't afford to miss.
The immense track
The archaeological area and the spina
The view over the Palatine
From almost any point in the Circus Maximus you'll enjoy a spectacular view over the Palatine, with the remains of the imperial palaces towering above the valley. At sunset, with golden light washing over the floodlit ruins, it's one of the most beautiful — and romantic — sights in Rome, and the best spot for photos.
The Circo Massimo Experience
Want to discover the Circus Maximus without worrying about parking and the ZTL?
My Rome Driver takes you into the heart of ancient Rome with a private driver, pairing the Circus Maximus with the Palatine and the Baths of Caracalla. Flat rate, door to door.
Check availability and get a quote
Reply within 30 minutes · Flat rate · Free cancellation up to 24h before
Tickets and opening hours
Here's the good news: most of the Circus Maximus is free. The vast sweep of the old racetrack is an open public space you can cross at virtually any hour, no ticket required — walk the 600 metres of the ancient stadium and soak up the view of the Palatine without spending a cent.
| Area | Access | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open racetrack area | Free | Open public space, accessible virtually around the clock |
| Archaeological area | Paid ticket (modest) | Legal reductions and free admissions apply |
| Circo Massimo Experience | Separate ticket | AR/VR headsets; booking recommended |
Because prices and times change, always check the official site for current figures and book ahead for the augmented-reality experience.
| Section | Hours |
|---|---|
| Open area | Accessible virtually around the clock (public space) |
| Archaeological area | Its own hours — generally daytime, possible evening slots in the warmer months — with closing days |
| Circo Massimo Experience | Its own schedule and time slots; booking recommended |
How to get to the Circus Maximus
The Circus Maximus sits in the valley between the Palatine and the Aventine, at the heart of ancient Rome, and is incredibly easy to reach.
By metro
The most convenient option is the metro:
- Circo Massimo (Line B) — the stop sits right at the edge of the site, a short walk from the entrance to the archaeological area. It's the fastest, most direct option.
The same Line B connects you easily to the Colosseum (one stop away) and to Termini.
By tram and bus
The area is also served by the tram (line 3) and by several bus lines running along Via dei Cerchi and Viale Aventino, with stops just minutes from the site.
On foot from the centre
The Circus Maximus is an easy walk from many nearby attractions:
- Colosseum — about 10 minutes on foot.
- Mouth of Truth (Santa Maria in Cosmedin) — about 5 minutes.
- Roman Forum / Palatine — just a few minutes.
- Baths of Caracalla — about 12–15 minutes.
By car and the ZTL
The site lies in Rome's archaeological core, close to the city-centre ZTL zones, and parking nearby is limited and paid. With a private driver (NCC) the problem disappears: you're dropped off as close to the site as possible, with transfers and waiting handled for you — ideal if you want to pair the Circus Maximus with other stops in ancient Rome or with an airport transfer.
Practical tips
- For a free visit: stroll across the open area, ideally at sunset, when the Palatine lights up for the most striking view.
- For the full experience: book the Circo Massimo Experience with the headsets in advance, given the limited availability of slots.
- Hat and water in summer: the area offers no shade whatsoever, so go early morning or at sunset to dodge the heat.
- Pair it with the Palatine and Roman Forum, the Baths of Caracalla, the Mouth of Truth and the Aventine hill, with its famous "keyhole" view of the Cavalieri di Malta — all just minutes away. A private driver makes this route between the great sites of ancient Rome effortless.
- How much time to allow: crossing the open area takes just 20–30 minutes; adding the archaeological area and the augmented-reality experience, allow about an hour.
Frequently asked questions
What was the Circus Maximus? It was the largest stadium in ancient Rome, where chariot races were run before crowds that could top 150,000 spectators. It sits in the valley between the Palatine and the Aventine.
Can you visit the Circus Maximus for free? Yes, much of the area is an open public space that's free to wander at will. The archaeological area at the curved end, and the augmented-reality Circo Massimo Experience, require a ticket.
What is the Circo Massimo Experience? It's a route with augmented- and virtual-reality headsets that digitally reconstruct the ancient circus over the real ruins, bringing the grandstands and chariot races back to life.
Which metro stop is closest? The Circo Massimo stop on Line B, right at the edge of the site and a short walk from the entrance to the archaeological area.
How far is the Circus Maximus from the Colosseum? About 10 minutes on foot, or a single metro stop away on Line B.
How much time do you need for a visit? Crossing the open area takes just 20–30 minutes; adding the archaeological area and the augmented-reality experience, allow about an hour.
Book a driver for the Circus Maximus
Flat rate · ZTL access · Door to door