Rome: Piazza Navona Underground Stadium Entry & Audio Guide

Summary

Descend under Piazza Navona for ancient Roman stadium secrets

You’ll slip beneath lively Piazza Navona into Rome’s quieter layers, tracing ancient footsteps inside the Stadium of Domitian ruins with an included audio guide (there’s one for kids too). Feel centuries-old stone under your hands, catch whispered stories in several languages, and leave with a sense of what still lingers below the city’s surface.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked through a small doorway right off the edge of Piazza Navona — honestly, I’d walked past it before without even noticing. The air changed as soon as we started down the steps; cooler, a bit earthy, and quiet in that way you only get underground. Our tickets got us straight in (no fuss), and someone at the desk handed over these little audio guides — mine kept slipping off my ear but I sort of liked fiddling with it. There were families with kids too, and I heard a couple of different languages floating around.

The first thing that hit me was how close the old brick walls felt — you can actually see marks where crowds must’ve leaned or brushed past centuries ago. The audio guide (I picked English) explained how this was the Stadium of Domitian, five meters below today’s street level. I tried to picture chariots and shouting fans instead of tourists with backpacks. At one point, an older Italian man — maybe staff? — pointed out some graffiti scratched into stone and just grinned when I squinted at it. “Sport,” he said, tapping his chest. I still think about that moment.

You don’t need much time here; maybe 40 minutes if you take it slow. But there’s something about standing under all that noise from above and feeling the hush down here that sticks with you longer than you’d expect. There’s a little library upstairs with art books and postcards if you want to linger after — I almost bought a print but couldn’t decide which one, so maybe next time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Piazza Navona Underground Stadium

• Arrive at Piazza Navona
• Descend 5 metres underground
• Explore ancient stadium ruins
• Learn about Roman sports history
• Use multi-language audio guide

Top questions

How deep underground is the Stadium of Domitian?

The stadium is located 5 meters beneath street level under Piazza Navona.

Is there an audio guide included?

Yes, your ticket includes a multi-language audio guide and a special version for children aged 6 and up.

How long does the visit usually take?

The average visit lasts about 40 minutes through the museum area.

Are strollers or prams allowed inside?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during your visit.

Is it suitable for people with limited mobility?

The site is suitable for all physical fitness levels; public transportation options are nearby.

What are the opening hours?

The museum is open Monday through Sunday from 10am to 7pm; last entry is 40 minutes before closing.

Are service animals permitted?

Yes, service animals are allowed inside the museum.

Is there anything for children to do?

A dedicated audio guide for children (minimum age 6) is included; there’s also a section in the library just for kids.

What’s included

Your entry includes admission to the underground Stadium of Domitian beneath Piazza Navona, taxes covered, plus an audio guide in your chosen language (with a kid-friendly version available). You’re free to browse the on-site library stocked with art books and souvenirs before heading back up to Rome’s busy streets.