Rome Olympic Stadium (Stadio Olimpico)

The basics

Soccer is a national obsession in Italy: Home matches of the city's two top-division (Serie A) football clubs are the year’s biggest highlights for Roman sports fans. Emotions run high at their matches, especially when they’re vying for a spot for the Coppa Italia, UEFA Champions League Finals, or the FIFA World Cup. The city’s original stadium, dating back to the 1930s, was mostly demolished at one point, then expanded. Today’s modern stadium was inaugurated in 2008 for the European Cup Finals.

Tickets sell out quickly for games at the Stadio Olimpico, so be sure to book in advance. For a truly unforgettable experience, opt for VIP seats, which often include a buffet and open bar.

Things to know before you go

• Lazio and Roma fans generally behave well at matches, with much good-natured bantering and chanting. The most animated fans sit in the curva nord and curva sud—the stadium’s north and south curves.

• Matches last 90 minutes and are split into two halves. During the 15-minute break in the middle, crowds rush the concession stands for snacks and drinks.

• Large bags and backpacks can’t be taken inside the stadium, and there are security checks for banned items.

• Lazio players dress in sky blue and white; the Roma sport gold and dark red. If you’re looking to suit up, you can buy gear outside the stadium before the game.

• The Italian National Rugby team also uses this stadium—the Six Nations Rugby finals are another popular event.

How to get there

Stadio Olimpico, located on Piazzale del Foro Italico, is part of the Foro Italico sports complex outside the city center. The easiest way to get there is by public transportation: Take the metro line A from Piazza del Popolo to Flaminio, then the tram 2, which goes right to the stadium.

When to get there

Soccer season lasts from August to May, and some championship games run into the beginning of summer. A season ticket is worthwhile for those on an extended stay in Rome. If you’re in town in the summer, don’t fret—tours run even when there are no games.

Rome’s sporting glory

You’ll inevitably hear about a few historic moments while touring Rome’s Olympic Stadium. The grounds hosted the 1960 Olympic Games, for one, where Ethiopian runner Abebe Bikila raced barefoot and won the gold medal. The stadium was a lucky venue for Italy at the 1990 FIFA World Cup, where Italians won all four of the matches they played in Rome.

Ways to explore

Book a guided Olympic Stadium tour to visit exclusive areas and hear about key historical moments, from the Olympics to the FIFA World Cup. These small-group experiences happen on non-game days only and typically include access to the locker rooms, players’ entrance to the field, trophy room, and more.

Another option is to join Lazio and Roma fans in the stands for a match. Just be sure to book your seats in advance—football is a national passion in Italy and tickets sell out quickly for games at the Stadio Olimpico.

Accessibility

Rome’s Olympic Stadium is wheelchair accessible, with designated entrances and seating for visitors with limited mobility.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Event ticket, valid ID matching the name on your ticket

What to wear

Dress for the weather. If you want to wear Lazio or Roma gear, a store selling fan attire is located just outside the stadium.

Not allowed

Outside beverages, non-service animals, bulky bags, unauthorized signs or posters

Amenities

Restrooms, concession stands, shops

Address

Part of the Foro Italico sports complex, the Olympic Stadium is about 3 miles (5 kilometers) north of the center of Rome. While it’s too far to reach on foot from most Rome attractions, it’s easy to get to by car or public transportation.

Driving

Hire a taxi or use a rideshare app to get to the Olympic Stadium, which is within a 30-minute drive of Rome’s top sights. Be sure to tell your driver to drop you off near the entrance designated on your ticket.

Public transportation

From Rome’s Termini train station, hop on metro Line A and get off at Ottaviano station, then take the 32 bus to Piazzale della Farnesina, a short walk from the stadium.

Best times to visit

If you’re visiting for an event, get to the stadium by the time specified on your ticket. If booking a tour, go in the morning when the weather is cooler.

Best days to visit

That depends on why you’re visiting the stadium—games typically take place on weekends, which means tours are generally available on weekdays.

Best months to visit

Soccer season runs from August to May, so visit during these months if you want to see a game. Aim for October to May to avoid Rome’s intense summer heat.

Special events

Rome’s Olympic Stadium hosts major concerts and sporting events year-round, so check official ticketing websites for dates and availability.