If the Colosseum is the ancient monument most seen by tourists in Rome, it is not the only one to see. There are several remains and one of the most beautiful is undoubtedly Trajan’s Markets.
Very well preserved, it is located a few minutes’ walk from the Colosseum. We warmly invite you to see it by day and by night.
The History of Trajan’s Markets
As its name suggests, Trajan’s Markets were built under the Roman Emperor Trajan. He reigned between 98 and 117 AD and the markets were inaugurated in 113. The remains that you can see are almost 2000 years old.
Semicircular, the markets included 6 floors and had more than 150 stores. It is a huge structure.
Outside the markets is Trajan’s Column, another famous ancient Roman monument.
Where are Trajan’s Markets located?
The exact address of Trajan’s Market is via Quattro Novembre, 94, 00187 Roma.
Since you are not an Italian letter carrier, I will give you some indications that will help you more.
When you are in front of the Colosseum, you take Via dei Fori Imperiali, the street that allows you to see as many ancient ruins as possible on the right and on the left. You go on for less than a mile and you will have on your right Trajan’s Markets.
From the road, you can see the markets.
You can see Trajan’s Markets for free
Since you are high above the ruins, you have a beautiful and free view of all the markets. There are even facilities made to give you several views of Trajan’s markets. There are many tourists on the main path, but less on the wooden extensions.
This view explains why so many people say you shouldn’t pay to see Trajan’s Markets in Rome. With Amélie, that’s what we did. But it is also possible to take paid tickets to see more.
What is the price of the ticket for Trajan’s Markets?
The price of the ticket for Trajan’s Markets is €13 (reduced price €11). Tickets can be purchased in advance online or directly at the Museum’s ticket office.
An audio guide in English is available for an additional cost of €7. Again, Italians are not very generous with written information during the visit, so having an audio guide is a good idea.
I should explain that Trajan’s Markets are not included in the “Colosseum + Forum + Palatine Hill” ticket. Your ticket to visit this ancient trio does not allow you to go into the Trajan’s Markets.
What else can you see if you buy a Trajan’s Markets ticket?
To say that you can see everything of the markets for free is wrong. It is true that a vast part of the ruins or Trajan’s Column are perfectly visible from the walking path. But, if you pay, you have extras.
First of all, you can walk on the level of the ruins. The feeling of grandeur is quite different from there.
In addition, you have access to an indoor museum called in Italian “Mercati di Traiano Museo dei Fori Imperiali”. This museum has temporary and permanent exhibitions. You can discover additional ruins, reconstructions…
The audio guide that informs about the history of the markets and the life of the Romans in the building is an asset.
As we did not pay for these extras, I can’t write a lot about it, but the reviews read on the Internet are positive. If you have time and walk close to Trajan Markets, don’t hesitate to stop by.
Do I have to buy the tickets in advance?
You can buy tickets online by specifying the date of your visit. It is also possible to buy at the ticket office.
These are not the ruins that receive many visitors, so there are always available seats.
How long does a visit to the Trajan’s Markets last?
It depends on your desires. If you like to take your time, contemplating the markets from the paths, stopping at several places, taking some pictures, it lasts about 30 minutes.
If you buy your tickets, wander through the ruins and admire the works of art in the museum, the complete visit takes between 1h30 and 2h30.
Our opinion on Trajan’s Markets
I don’t understand why Trajan’s Markets are so little known by tourists. All the reviews I read about these remains are positive and I share them amply.
The ruins are in excellent condition and you can see the original architectural forms perfectly. I loved seeing them, walking around and imagining the life of its contemporaries. The markets were one of the best things we did.
Preferring to admire buildings than art or old stones into an indoor space, I don’t regret not having paid the entrance fee to the museum. However, I am sure that visiting this additional part is also interesting.
Even if you’re only in Rome for a day or two, walk the mile from the Colosseum to the Markets. You won’t be disappointed.
Some extra advice, try to see it at night. Obviously, the paid part is closed at night, but the remains are illuminated and are sublime.
DenisAs a professional blogger, I take advantage of my flexible schedule to travel a lot. I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list!
