Circus Maximus in Rome: history, virtual reality visit and how to get there

Updated on October 5, 2026

The Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo) was the largest stadium of ancient Rome: an enormous U-shaped track more than 600 metres long, between the Palatine and the Aventine, where chariot races were held in front of, by modern estimates, about 150,000 spectators. All that remains today is a vast grassy esplanade, free to enter every day. The "Circo Maximo Experience", a 40-minute augmented and virtual reality visit, brings the monument back to life: €12 (reduced €10). Allow 30 minutes for a stroll, 1 hour 15 with the immersive visit.

Highlights

The esplanade and the medieval tower

The track measured about 620 m by 120 m. Only its shape survives, two curved lines of levelled stands and, at the curved end, the remains of a medieval tower (the Torre della Moletta) and of the retaining walls of the seating, visible behind a railing.

The Palatine as a backdrop

From the esplanade you can see the arcades of the imperial palace on the Palatine, from where the emperor watched the races from his box. Walk along the track to picture the chariots, the four colour teams (whites, reds, blues and greens) and the laps around the central spina.

La Circo Maximo Experience

This itinerant visit in 8 stages, with a virtual reality headset, recreates the stands, the spina and the races. It lasts about 40 minutes; narration in several languages (including French); entrance on Viale Aventino. Price: €12, reduced €10 (under 26s, teachers, Roma Pass), family €22 (two adults and children under 18). Free for under-6s. In 2026 it is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm (last entry 2:50pm) from October to December; closed on Monday, 1 May and 25 December. Book on the experience's website, at museiincomuneroma.vivaticket.it or on 060608.

The obelisks

The two obelisks that adorned the spina, including Augustus's, were moved in the 16th century: you can now see them in Piazza del Popolo and in front of St John Lateran.

A gathering place

The esplanade hosts free concerts, celebrations and New Year's Eve.

Practical info

Tips

The esplanade is free to enter; only the immersive visit is paid. Bring water and a hat: there is almost no shade. In summer the dry ground is dusty; after rain the grass can be wet. The experience's prices and hours were taken in October 2026 and may change on 1 January: check the official site before booking.

How to get there

Via del Circo Massimo, 00186 Rome. Metro line B, Circo Massimo station, opposite the esplanade. The Circo Maximo Experience entrance is on Viale Aventino.

Opening hours

Best: Morning or late afternoon

Esplanade: always open, free access. Circo Maximo Experience: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-16:00 from October to December 2026 (last entry 14:50; closed Monday, 1 May and 25 December; closing at 14:00 on 24 and 31 December)