Rome Underground Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto

Rome , Italy

Rome Underground Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto

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About this experience

Begin your journey in the Basilica of San Crisogono, one of Trastevere’s oldest churches and admire its majestic nave and unique marble floor.

Continue in the Basilica of Santa Cecilia and descend into the 2nd-century Roman houses, walking on original mosaic floors with ancient walls.

Then a nun opens the ancient monastery dining room only for our small group, where you'll admire the extraordinary 14th-century frescoes by Pietro Cavallini, masterpieces of medieval art.

Cross the ancient bridge to Tiber Island, cradle of Rome’s earliest trade routes and a sacred site of healing since antiquity.

Your walk continues into the Jewish Ghetto, heart of Europe’s oldest continuous Jewish community. Stand before the Portico of Octavia, where marble columns echo the grandeur of Rome’s Empire.

A few steps away rises the Teatro Marcello, the elegant ancestor of the Colosseum. Your journey concludes at the Church of San Nicola in Carcere, one of the most extraordinary palimpsests in Rome.

Available options

Rome Underground Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto

What's included

Entrance fee to Saint Cecilia crypt

Assistance before and during the tour for any logistical needs

Entrance fee to the monastery for Cavallini's frescoes

Private guided tour led by a licensed, expert local guide

Entrance fee to Saint Crisogono crypt

Detailed itinerary

Begin your journey in the Basilica of San Crisogono, one of Trastevere’s oldest churches. Admire its majestic nave and unique marble floor, then venture below into the 4th-century basilica, where pillars, altars, and early Christian frescoes recount the dawn of Roman Christianity.

Stop 2

Walk Trastevere alleys to reach the peaceful courtyard of Santa Cecilia, where time has stopped. In the basilica admire light softly illuminating mosaics and frescoes, before encountering the moving statue of Saint Cecilia beneath the altar. Descend into the 2nd-century Roman houses, walking on original mosaic floors with ancient walls, still bearing traces of daily life frozen in time. Finally, step into the adjoining monastery to admire the extraordinary 14th-century frescoes by Pietro Cavallini, masterpieces of medieval art that reveal the transition from Byzantine rigidity to the naturalism of the early Renaissance.

Stop 3

Cross the ancient bridge to Tiber Island, cradle of Rome’s earliest trade routes and a sacred site of healing since antiquity. With your knowledgeable guide, uncover the traces of the temple of Aesculapius, god of healing, as the island served as a refuge for the sick.

Stop 4

Finally, explore the Jewish Ghetto, home to Europe’s oldest Jewish community. Stand before the Portico of Octavia, dedicated by Emperor Augustus to his sister: once the monumental entrance to a vast open-air art gallery, and a 1000 years later turned into the city’s fish market, supplied by the nearby Tiber.

Stop 5

A few steps away rises the Teatro Marcello, the elegant ancestor of the Colosseum. As you stand before its graceful arches, imagine it alive with music, drama, and thousands of spectators during Rome’s golden age, an architectural vision that shaped centuries of performance spaces.

A journey through sacred spaces, hidden layers, and living memory, revealing a Rome you simply cannot miss.

Your journey concludes at the Church of San Nicola in Carcere, one of the most extraordinary palimpsests in Rome. Built over the remains of three Republican-era temples, the church absorbs their ancient columns and foundations into its very body. Touching these stones, you can feel the weight of 2,200 years of history layered into a single structure.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

You will meet our guide with an "OPEN MIND TOURS" signal, at Largo S. Giovanni De Matha, near the entrance of the Basilica of Saint Crisogono.

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