Catacombs and Roman Countryside Half-Day Walking Tour

Rome , Italy

Catacombs and Roman Countryside Half-Day Walking Tour

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(411 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Travel along Rome’s ancient Appian Way and explore its ancient aqueducts, Catacombs and countryside on this 3-hour tour. Escape the city’s hustle and bustle to discover the surrounding countryside with your guide. Visit the Catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano — widely considered to be among Rome’s finest remaining burial sites — and explore their labyrinthine underground tunnels. Admire feats of engineering from a past civilization in the antique arches of Rome’s mighty aqueducts and gain valuable insight into one of the world’s most fascinating ancient civilizations.

Available options

9:45am Tour in English

Catacombs tour starting at 9:45am with English-speaking guide

What's included

Professional guide

Bus transfer

Admission Fees to the Catacombs of San Callisto

Headsets available upon request

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The sightseeing tour begins with a comfortable bus ride to the Roman countryside. Here you will discover the beauty that lies outside of Rome, starting with the infamous Catacombs of San Callisto- among the largest and most important in Italy. This underground cemetery and the burial site of 500,000 Christians and dozens of martyrs and popes is divided into two areas – the crypt of St. Cecilia and the Crypt of the Popes.

Stop 2 Pass by

We continue by bus through the Roman countryside to the next destination – Circus of Maxentius. Although not as renown as Circus Maximus, this well-preserved structure can be found in the lush Caffarella Park

Next stop on this undiscovered Rome itinerary is an external visit to the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella. Located at the top of a hill along Via Appia, this monumental tomb was built to honor the Roman noblewoman during the 1st century B.C

We continue with a walk through one of the oldest and most significant streets in the world - the Appian Way. Referred to by Romans as the “Queen of Roads”, Via Appia connected Rome to Brindisi in Southern Italy, serving as the main trade route with Greece and the East. Which is why the Appian Way of 300 B.C. is considered one of the greatest engineering works of Ancient Rome civilization.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks, unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

402 reviews

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230

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

9 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Luggage storage NOT available

A dress code is required to enter the catacombs. Both shoulders and knees MUST be covered for both men and women. This dress code is strictly enforced and you will be refused entry if you fail to comply with requirements.

Important notes

• A dress code is required to enter the catacombs. This dress code is strictly enforced and you will be refused entry if you fail to comply with requirements. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
• Meeting point: Via Cavour 224 at the bus stop – nearest metro station: “Cavour” B LINE.
• Please remember to show up 20 minutes before the tour departure time.
• Luggage storage NOT available

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