- Duration
- 5 hours
- Product Type
- Tour
- Venues
- Ostia Antica Archaeological Site
We’ll begin our Ostia Antica tour in Rome with a short private car or van ride toward the coast. Along the way, our guide will discuss the regional geography of the area, Ostia's role as Rome's port, and the historic background leading up to the town's rise in the Imperial era. On-site, we will spend 3.5 hours combing through the ruins, which include some of the best examples of baths, a fantastic amphitheater, and several Mithraic temples, not to mention a forum with temples. As we walk, we’ll focus on the daily life of regular, working-class Romans. We'll spend time in the market area with its wonderful mosaics discussing the economy of the empire and the materials and commodities that made their way through there every day. We will also spend time in the insulae (apartment houses) that characterize Ostia and even visit an ancient bakery and fast-food restaurant.
At the end of our Ostia Antica tour, participants are free to linger on-site (where there is also a modern restaurant) or return to Rome with our guide. If you decide to remain and are booking a private tour, you can ask our team to delay the return car or van transfer. If you are booking a small group tour and would like to stay on-site longer, you will need to return to Rome by train.
Note:
The synagogue in Ostia—the oldest in Europe—is located at the far end of the site, but is not usually included on our tour. On private tours, it is possible to shape the tour so that we include it—please let our team know in advance that you would like to visit this area of the archaeological site.
Why Ostia Antica?
FAQ
Are tickets included?
Yes. The cost of this tour does include a ticket to the site.
How long is the van ride?
We book a van, and the one-way transfer is 45 minutes (1.5 hours round trip).
Is it possible to spend more time on-site on our own?
You are welcome to stay more time on-site, but the guide's time with you ends at 1:30 pm. You may choose to take the train from the Ostia train station to go back to Rome or arrange for additional transportation.
Is this tour mobility friendly?
Ostia Antica is an archaeological site that is still being uncovered, making it very difficult for wheelchairs, walkers, or canes. The average group tour covers about 3 miles. Private tours have the option to cover less ground, and are the best option for those with mobility concerns. All guests should wear comfortable walking shoes.
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