Terrific. We had a wonderful time.
Appian Way & Catacombs Day Trip from Rome
Trace Rome beyond the walls through roads and ancient burials
The Finer Details
Dating back to the year 300 BCE, the Appian Way (“Via Appia” in Italian) is the oldest and most prestigious of Roman roads. Built to connect Rome with the South, the road became a gateway to Italy and eventually the entire Roman Empire, and houses Mausoleums, miles of ancient Christian catacombs, and even Rome’s second-largest circus after the Circus Maximus.
This 3-hour Appian Way tour takes you beyond the city walls, to the mysterious Catacombs and the quiet of the Roman countryside. Your expert guide, an experienced archaeologist or historian, will guide you through this exploration of the city's mysterious history and answer all of your questions regarding its enchanting underworld.
Route Details
You will begin with a convenient pick-up at your hotel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle and head toward the Appian Way Archaeological Park. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2024, the Appian Way—regina viarum, or "queen of all roads"—dates back to circa 300 B.C. and played a crucial role in shaping Rome’s urban development for centuries.
After meeting with your guide on site at the Archeological site, you will immediately start the exploration with a visit to the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, built for the daughter of a wealthy Roman patrician. This grand tomb showcases how Rome’s elite displayed their status through monumental architecture. Nearby, you will visit the Circus of Maxentius, an ancient chariot-racing stadium that once contained the obelisk now in Piazza Navona, second in size only to the Circus Maximus. As you walk along the historic road, lined with temples and memorials, your expert guide will unpack the fascinating history of these structures.
The highlight of your tour will be a visit to the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian. Here, you’ll join an intimate small group and explore the vast underground burial sites of early Christians. Your guide will provide insights into the history and significance of these catacombs.
At the end of the Appian Way tour, your private vehicle will take you back to your hotel, ensuring a seamless experience. You will leave with a better understanding of Roman urban planning and how the city presented itself to incoming visitors. This itinerary can be tailored to your interests, with the option to extend your time with the guide or include additional venues, such as the Baths of Caracalla.
Choose this tour if…
- You want to explore Rome beyond the city center and are eager to explore a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- You don’t want to worry about logistics and how to navigate public transportation. We provide private transportation to and from the sites, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- You’ll be accompanied by an expert local guide who will bring history to life and ensure a safe and insightful experience.
- You want to skip the hassle of planning and organizing and have guaranteed access to the Catacombs, which are known for limited ticket availability.
- You are interested in tailoring your experience, extending your time with the guide, or adding extra stops based on your interests.
Sites Visited
- Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) – The queen of all Roman roads, built around 300 B.C., it played a key role in trade, military movements, and urban development.
- Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella – A grand tomb for a Roman noblewoman, an example of the wealth and status of elite families in Ancient Rome.
- Circus and Villa of Maxentius – Rome’s second-largest circus after the Circus Maximus, an ancient chariot-racing stadium.
- Catacombs of Saint Sebastian – Underground Christian burial sites, where early believers found refuge and rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect during a visit to the catacombs? What is the atmosphere like?
The catacombs remain at a constant temperature of around 17°C (62.6°F) with high humidity. While the lighting is dim for preservation purposes, the pathways are safely illuminated, and our guided tour ensures a comfortable experience. We recommend bringing a light jacket and dress appropriately.
The catacombs remain at a constant temperature of around 17°C (62.6°F) with high humidity. While the lighting is dim for preservation purposes, the pathways are safely illuminated, and our guided tour ensures a comfortable experience. We recommend bringing a light jacket and dress appropriately.
Do I need to have a religious interest to enjoy this tour?
Not at all. While the catacombs hold deep religious significance, they are also remarkable for their historical, archaeological, and cultural importance. Our expert guide provides insights that appeal to all visitors, regardless of religious background.
Is it safe to travel to the catacombs and venture outside the City Center?
Yes. Your comfort and safety are our priority. We provide private, air-conditioned transport directly from your hotel, so you can enjoy the tour without concerns about navigating public transportation or unfamiliar areas.
How long is the tour, and can I extend it?
The tour is designed to offer a 3-hour well-paced and in-depth experience, but if you’d like more time with your guide or wish to add extra stops, we’re happy to tailor the itinerary to your interests. Please let us know your preferences at checkout or reach out for more information.
Is this tour accessible for visitors with mobility concerns or claustrophobia?
The tour itself is not physically demanding, but the catacombs are not wheelchair accessible due to ancient architectural barriers. The visit includes 70 uneven steps without seating or an elevator. It may not be suitable for those with serious mobility issues or claustrophobia. If someone in your group prefers to skip this part, just let us know, and we’ll adjust the booking accordingly.
Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes. Families with children often find the underground passages fascinating. Our guides tailor the experience to keep younger visitors engaged while providing meaningful insights for adults.
Can I join the tour without using the included transportation?
Of course. If you prefer to use your own car, just inform us in advance, and we will adjust your booking accordingly.
Accessibility
We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.
Is this tour accessible for visitors with mobility concerns or claustrophobia?
The tour itself is not physically demanding, but the catacombs are not wheelchair accessible due to ancient architectural barriers. The visit includes 70 uneven steps without seating or an elevator. It may not be suitable for those with serious mobility issues or claustrophobia. If someone in your group prefers to skip this part, just let us know, and we’ll adjust the booking accordingly.
The tour itself is not physically demanding, but the catacombs are not wheelchair accessible due to ancient architectural barriers. The visit includes 70 uneven steps without seating or an elevator. It may not be suitable for those with serious mobility issues or claustrophobia. If someone in your group prefers to skip this part, just let us know, and we’ll adjust the booking accordingly.
Cancellation Policy
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Meet the Experts
Where You’ll Go
From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.
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Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella
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Circus and Villa of Maxentius
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Appian Way Archeological Park
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Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
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English-speaking expert guideTours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
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Intentionally sized groupsA smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
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Tickets and entrance feesAll entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
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HeadsetsHeadsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Not Included
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Food and drinkUnless booking a Food & Drink tour or tasting experience, refreshments are not included.
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Transportation to and from the meeting pointUnless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
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GratuitiesTips aren’t included, but we encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
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Hotel pickup or drop-offUnless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Make the Most of Your Tour
Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.
Dos:
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Check the weather and dress appropriately
- Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
- Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
- Bring firearms or weapons
- Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
- Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always
contact us.
Don’t just take our word for it
so knowledge and fun to be with
Livia was a great guide! Her passion for the content really made it come alive!
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