Darker side of Rome Tour with Catacombs and Crypts

Rome , Italy

Darker side of Rome Tour with Catacombs and Crypts

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About this experience

Everyone asks about the legends of the Rome underground catacombs and crypts. On this tour you get the answers to the most popular questions in an up close and personal way. With a private driver, a professional guide, and three incredible and macabre sites, this tour will have you engulfed in Rome’s famous dark side.
This is the best tour to see many of Rome’s hidden underground gems. Sites like the Basilica di San Clemente whose structure dates all the way back to ancient Rome. The church is a perfect example of the layers of the city with the 11th century church sitting on top of a 4th century AD basilica, on top of the home of a Roman nobleman, destroyed in 64AD in the great fire of Rome. At the crypt of the Capuchin Friars in the center of Rome, you will see how the friars decorated their crypts with the bones of over 3000 deceased friars. In the Catacombs of San Callisto, you will enter a maze of underground burial tunnels dating back to the early 3rd century AD.

Available options

Darker side of Rome Tour with Catacombs and Crypts

What's included

Private transportation

Entry fees/tickets to all sites

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Basilica di San Clemente (the Church of St Clement) has a structure which dates all the way back to ancient Rome. The church is a perfect example of the layers of the city with the 11th century church sitting on top of a 4th century AD basilica, on top of the home of a Roman nobleman, destroyed in 64AD in the great fire of Rome.

Stop 2

The Catacombs of San Callisto are a maze of underground burial tunnels dating back to the early 3rd century AD. With miles of secret tunnels lying under the city of Rome, you will surely be happy to have a tour guide with you in order to return safely to street level.
**You may visit the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian depending on the date/time chosen**

Stop 3

The crypt of the Capuchin Friars is in the center of Rome. Here you will see how the friars decorated their crypts with the bones of over 3000 deceased friars.

What's not included

Food and Drink

Transportation to the meeting point

Exhibitions and Special Events at the sites

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

THIS IS FOR AFTERNOON TOURS STARTING AT 1:00PM ONLY - Look for your tour guide in the middle of the piazza next to the fountain.

Important notes

**PLEASE LOOK CAREFULLY AT YOUR MEETING POINT BASED ON THE START TIME OF THE TOUR YOU HAVE BOOKED - 9:45 am morning tours begin at the Roman Vacations office, while 1:00pm afternoon tours begin at Piazza Barberini**

Please look for the Roman Vacations sign with a lion head on it. Show this ticket to your guide upon arrival to the meeting point. The guide will have all entry tickets for each site and will use them to enter with the group.

*Please take note that the route will vary based on the time chosen, but all three sites will be visited. We also reserve the right to bring customers to either San Callisto or San Sebastiano Catacombs depending upon the date/time selected and opening hours of the catacombs.*

About Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.

Top Attractions

Colosseum

The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)

Vatican City

Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

Religious Half day €17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)

Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.

Architecture 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.

Pasta Vegetarian

Carbonara

A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.

Pasta Contains pork and eggs

Supplì

Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Snack Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)

Carciofi alla Romana

Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.

Vegetable Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park Biking along the Tiber River Rock climbing in the nearby mountains Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens Boating on Lake Albano Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting the Vatican Museums Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets

Getting there

By air

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina

By bus

Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Trastevere Monti Prancipio Testaccio

Day trips

Ostia Antica

30 km from Rome • Half day

An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.

Tivoli

30 km from Rome • Full day

A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.

Orvieto

120 km from Rome • Full day

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.

Festivals

Natale di Roma • April 21 Festa de' Noantri • July Rome Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots