Rome , Italy

Small-Group Tour of Roman Catacombs & St. Clement's Undergrounds

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(27 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

Explore a surprising lesser-known gem in the city center before jumping outside the city walls to the mazy Roman Catacombs. Go deep underground in a dark world of secret cults and ancient wall paintings with a small-group guided tour.

Visit 2 contrasting underground sights with an expert guide. Discover the place of a hidden cult 14 meters below St. Clement’s Basilica and descend into the twisty tunnels of the Catacombs of Domitilla.

Available options

French Tour

Small-Group Tour: This option is for a 3-hour guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica in French

English Tour

Small-Group Tour: This option is for a 3-hour guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica in English

Private Tour in German

Private Tour: This option is for a 3-hour Private guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica

German Tour

Small-Group Tour: This option is for a 3-hour guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica in German

Private Tour in French

Private Tour: This option is for a 3-hour Private guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica

Private Tour in English

Private Tour: This option is for a 3-hour Private guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica

Private Tour in Spanish

Private Tour: This option is for a 3-hour Private guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica

Spanish Tour

Small-Group Tour: This option is for a 3-hour guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica in Spanish

Italian Tour

Small-Group Tour: This option is for a 3-hour guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica in Italian

Portuguese Tour

Small-Group Tour: This option is for a 3-hour guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica in Portuguese

Private Tour in Portuguese

Private Tour: This option is for a 3-hour Private guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica

Private Tour in Italian

Private Tour: This option is for a 3-hour Private guided tour of the Roman Catacombs and the undergrounds of St. Clement's Basilica

What's included

Live professional guide

Luggage deposit in our office for the duration of the tour

Sterilised headsets to hear the guide clearly

Full on-site assistance

All entrance and transport fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your guide at the meeting point and then venture deep underground the Basilica of San Clemente, below its foundations into a mystical world of ancient cults and legends. Journey through several layers of history and earth, down to 14 meters below ground. Live the excitement of gradually exploring the later structures built on top of it on your way up to the surface.

Go back in time down to the deepest point and discover the best-preserved Mithraic temple of the city. Find out about the pagan faith of Ancient Romans before Christianity and be intrigued by its sectarian and esoteric flavour. Touch the waters of an underground river before going higher into the remains of the 4th Century Basilica, built on top of the martyr’s house and below the actual one. Walk along its imposing walls and be fascinated by the ancient frescoes while learning about the scenes and the lives of the martyrs they portray.

Get onboard a comfortable air-conditioned minivan and travel along the Ancient Appian Way to the largest Catacombs in Rome. The round trip takes approx. 30 minutes.

Stop 3

Visit the otherworldly crypts of Domitilla. Descend 16 meters below the surface and explore the accessible part of its vast labyrinth of underground burial chambers and galleries.

Be captivated by the ancient wall-paintings of mythological and biblical figures and revive the shift of faith from paganism to Christianity. Feel the power of prohibited belief and learn about early martyrs and persecutions. Complete your underworld experience in the 4th-century subterranean basilica.

What's not included

Hotel Pick-up and drop-off

Optional gratuities

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

22 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered

This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or a full refund

This tour will have a maximum of 10 participants

You will need to be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the starting time

Not recommended for people with claustrophobia

Meeting point

Meet us at Via Francesco Giambullari 4, 00184 Rome. The meeting point is in the square in front of the stairs. Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled starting time. Look for a member of staff holding a yellow label.

Important notes

- You will get your entry ticket from your guide at the meeting point
- Please be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the starting time
- An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered
- This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or a full refund
- For environmental reasons, it is preferable that you bring your own earphones and do not print your voucher. We will provide earphones in case you forget yours
- We suggest you bring your own refillable bottle as you can find drinkable-water fountains everywhere in Rome

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