Roman Theatre Ostia
A remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater and ancient port city, offering a vivid glimpse into Roman life and hosting vibrant open-air concerts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Roman Theatre Ostia
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater and ancient port city, offering a vivid glimpse into Roman life and hosting vibrant open-air concerts.
"Ostia Antica is amazing and impressed me more than Pompeii."
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Ostia Antica is huge! You need at least a full day to explore properly, not just a few hours.
🎶 Concerts: Check Acoustics
Great for concerts, but sound and lighting can be inconsistent. Skip the front row.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 8,313 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ancient Stage
Piazzale delle Corporazioni
A well-preserved 2nd c. CE amphitheater, still hosting vibrant open-air concerts today.
Corporate Hub
Piazzale delle Corporazioni
Imagine ancient business deals in this square, with the theater as its grand centerpiece.
Baths of Neptune
Ostia Antica Archaeological Park
Marvel at intricate mosaics depicting Neptune and sea creatures in these grand ancient baths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Theater
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
How to get from Ostia Antica to Rome after concert?
I'm going to the Robert Plant concert at Teatro romano di Ostia Antica on Sunday 03 September at 9PM which I assume will probably end around 11PM. What options are available to get back to Rome/Campo de Fiori after the show? Do the trains still run? Will there be taxis?
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Ostia Antica is huge! You need at least a full day to explore properly, not just a few hours.
🎶 Concerts: Check Acoustics
Great for concerts, but sound and lighting can be inconsistent. Skip the front row.
Ostia Antica is amazing and impressed me more than Pompeii. Some of my pics
I spent about 4 hours in Ostia while waiting for a flight to depart at Ciampino. That includes about 45 minute at the small museum there. Honestly I barely scratched the surface. You need at least a full day to fully enjoy this massive ancient city. Unlike Pompeii, Ostia was…
Hidden gems to visit in Rome
My wife and I will be visiting Rome for the third time in the beginning of November. We love the city and its main attractions, albeit the amount of tourists is overwhelming. I would love to hear some suggestions of less-known things to do or see in the city. I'm sure a city…
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient surfaces.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Great photo opportunities, especially in the Piazzale delle Corporazioni, even during restoration.
Tips for itinerary:)
Heading to Rome Aug 10 and looking for suggestions of how to fill my days. I have all the main sites purchased and will be travelling with My husband and 9 year old Arrive Aug 10- free day as we’ll likely be tired from arriving in Canada. Check in to hotel near termini and…
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Ostia Antica is huge! You need at least a full day to explore properly, not just a few hours.
🎶 Concerts: Check Acoustics
Great for concerts, but sound and lighting can be inconsistent. Skip the front row.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient surfaces.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Great photo opportunities, especially in the Piazzale delle Corporazioni, even during restoration.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. There's a cafe onsite too.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the well-preserved Roman Theatre and the expansive archaeological site of Ostia Antica, often finding it more immersive than Pompeii. The potential for unique evening concerts is a major draw, though some note inconsistencies in sound and lighting. The site's vastness and historical depth are highly praised, making it a rewarding experience for those who dedicate sufficient time.
"It's the Roman theater of Ancient Ostia. What's not to love?
It was built by Agrippa under the reign of Augustus back in the 1st century BC. It was rededicated after it was expanded to 4000 seats in 196 AD. It was the work of Septimius Severus and Caracalla that prompted the rededication per the inscription on the plaque on the theater that still exists today.
We weren't able to step inside or step up to the viewing area due to construction and/or restoration. I'm assuming they are fixing the crumbling steps since it's currently used as an amphitheater-type concert venue. I think it would be cool to visit it in the evening as a spectator in a venue.
The theater was built to be a part of a corporate complex called Piazzale delle Corporazione. The theater is prominently displayed as you're walking through the square. This is where you can get great photo opportunities during its restoration.
We enjoyed our visit here. It's a great way to actually see ancient Roman city life and imagine what is was like in that century."
Karen V
"It is a great place to enjoy music — especially genres like psychedelic rock. The atmosphere really complements the style of music, creating a unique and immersive vibe.
That said, there are a couple of areas that could be improved. The sound quality and acoustics still need some work to truly elevate the listening experience. Also, the lighting setup could be better adjusted — at times it felt a bit harsh and distracting.
Overall, it’s a promising venue with great potential, and with a few improvements, it could become a top spot for live music lovers."
Masoud Gharahi
"Some very noisy school groups had pretty much cleared off early afternoon, and despite spending over six hours exploring the site, there was still loads more to see. Unlike the Forum in Rome where a ticket grants a single entry, here you have eight days to keep coming back!
A great and reasonable cafe onsite too."
Mike Simpson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take the Roma-Lido train from Piramide station in Rome towards Cristoforo Colombo. Get off at the Ostia Antica stop. The archaeological park entrance is a short walk from the station.
Yes, it's very accessible via the Roma-Lido train line, making it a convenient day trip from Rome.
The train journey typically takes about 30-40 minutes from Piramide station.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the entrance of the Ostia Antica archaeological park.
Yes, a standard Rome public transport ticket or pass is valid for the Roma-Lido train line.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but generally, a standard admission ticket grants access to the entire archaeological park, including the Roman Theatre. Check the official website for current pricing.
It's highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Ostia Antica website for the most up-to-date information on hours and any potential closures.
Unlike the Forum in Rome, Ostia Antica offers an eight-day entry pass, allowing you to revisit the site multiple times.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or EU citizens. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket office or check the official website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Ostia Antica is a vast ancient city with well-preserved buildings like the Baths of Neptune, the Theatre, the Piazzale delle Corporazioni, insulae (apartment buildings), and a museum.
Most visitors recommend at least a full day to truly appreciate the scale and detail of Ostia Antica. You can easily spend 4-6 hours and still not see everything.
Yes, guided tours are often available and can greatly enhance your understanding of the site's history and significance. Check for availability upon arrival or book in advance.
Yes, children can find Ostia Antica fascinating, especially imagining life in an ancient city. The open spaces are good for them to explore.
There are restrooms, a cafe, and a small museum on-site. Water fountains are also available for refilling bottles.
📸 📸 Photography
The stage area, the seating tiers, and the surrounding Piazzale delle Corporazioni offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed within the archaeological park, including the theatre, for personal use. Professional photography may require special permits.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in archaeological sites to protect the ruins and for safety reasons. Check with site management for specific regulations.
During concerts, photography might be restricted to avoid distracting performers or other audience members. Check event-specific rules.
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