Oppian Hill Park (Parco del Colle Oppio)

The basics

Rome is a city famously built around seven hills—and on one of those, you’ll find Parco del Colle Oppio (the name means Oppian Hill Park in English). Nero chose this site to build part of his huge palace with landscaped gardens, Domus Aurea, and visitors can still tour the ruins of the palace nearby. The baths of Trajan were also located here. When the park was developed in the 1920s it was lined with statues and boasted a rose garden. Nowadays there’s not as much to see or do here.

Things to know before you go

• If you’re thinking of visiting the nearby Colosseum or the Forum, consider joining a private tour to skip the lines, which can be very long during the summer months.
• The park offers sweeping views over the Colosseum and Palatine hills.
• The park is wheelchair accessible.
• In July and August, the All’Ombra del Colosseo festival is held in the park with musical performances.

How to get there

Parco del Colle Oppio is located in the center of Rome, just behind the Colosseum. It’s within walking distance to both the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Hop-on hop-off tour buses stop nearby, and the closest metro station is Colosseo, on Line B.

When to get there

A public place, Parco del Colle Oppio is open all year round. It is best enjoyed in the daytime—the area can be less safe for visitors after dark.

Visit Saint Frances Church

Just next to the Roman Forum, and a short walk from Parco del Colle Oppio, is the church of Santa Francesca Romana. With grand marble interiors and decorated ceilings, the church has plenty to enjoy, but the real highlight is the 6th-century painting Vergine col Bambino (virgin with child), one of the oldest Christian artworks in existence anywhere in the world.

Ways to explore

Set opposite the Colosseum, the Oppian Hill Park is free to visit. Pair it with a guided tour of Rome’s ancient amphitheater, Forum, and Palatine Hill. Ticketed tours of the Domus Aurea—also known as Nero’s Golden House—sometimes include a stroll through this park to admire the ruins scattered over its 27 acres (11 hectares). Visit this and other city parks with an e-bike or vintage Fiat 500 tour that takes you through the city’s green spaces, historic gardens, and scenic overlooks.

Accessibility

Several paved paths wind their way through the park, making it easy to explore with a wheelchair.

Age limits

The park is ideal for families, with large stretches of grass, a playground, and sports fields.

What to pack

Picnic supplies, picnic blanket, camera, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, sun hat, sunscreen

Not allowed

Rome’s parks do not allow graffiti, damaging park equipment, or entering the park after closing hours.

Amenities

Water fountain, snack bar, playground, sports fields

Address

The Oppian Hill Park is situated opposite the Colosseum and is easily accessible on foot from Rome’s most famous ancient ruins or via public transportation.

Driving

Though there is public parking along Via delle Terme di Traiano just outside the park, it is often full. Avoid wasting time looking for parking and get to the park either on foot or by public transportation.

Public transportation

Metro line A and tram line 3 both stop at Colosseo, a 5-minute walk uphill to the park. Several city bus lines also stop along Via Labicana, located at the foot of Oppian Hill.

Best times to visit

Visit in the daylight to admire the ruins within the park. The scenic overlook is a great spot to admire the Colosseum by day and by night.

Best days to visit

The park is lively with locals on the weekends; plan a picnic here on Saturday or Sunday to soak in the Roman vibe.

Best months to visit

Visit in spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the park is verdant.

Special events

The park occasionally hosts concerts and other cultural events, sporting events, or workshops for kids. Check Rome’s tourism website for an updated calendar.