Descend into the depths of the catacombs and explore the sacred resting places of early Christians. These burial sites hold the remains of countless individuals, martyrs, and even Popes.
Follow your expert guide around tunnels spanning 19km across four levels in Rome's largest catacomb complex!
Follow your expert guide around tunnels spanning 19km across four levels in Rome's largest catacomb complex!
Inclusions
Exclusions
Piazza d'Aracoeli
Set off on comfortable transfers from central Rome, cruising the Appian Way.
5.7 kms
19 mins
1
Catacombs of St. Callixtus
60 mins
1 attractions
Tickets included
Traverse the 19km-long tunnels that make up Rome's largest catacomb complex in just one hour with an expert guide!
Crypt of St. Cecilia
Dedicated to Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians, this crypt contains remarkable Biblical frescoes surrounding her serene statue.
5.7 kms
19 mins
2
Piazza d'Aracoeli
Seamless round-trip transfers from Rome's city center to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, a fascinating underground labyrinth!
Seamless round-trip transfers from Rome's city center to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, a fascinating underground labyrinth!
Inclusions
Piazza Barberini
Meet your expert historian guide at Piazza Barberini, beside the fountain of Triton. In a morbid tradition, this square once served as a place where unidentified bodies were displayed for public recognition until the 1800s.
0.23 kms
1 mins
1
Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
Tickets included
Tune into an audio guide as you explore the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars, where underground chapels are adorned with intricate skeletal art, blending the macabre with spiritual reflections.
6.8 kms
22 mins
2
Appian Way Catacombs
Tickets included
Venture into subterranean galleries at either one of the catacombs – St. Callixtus, Domitilla, or St. Sebastian. Each offers a profound journey into early Christian history.
6.9 kms
17 mins
3
San Nicola in Carcere
Tickets included
This medieval church was built over the ancient Forum Olitorium, once home to three temples during the Roman Republic. In the Middle Ages, these temples were repurposed into a prison, giving the church its evocative name, "in Carcere" (in prison).
4 kms
16 mins
4
Piazza Barberini
An eerie assortment of bones, a maze-like complex of subterranean tombs, and the unique San Nicola Basilica await on this 3-in-1 guided tour.
An eerie assortment of bones, a maze-like complex of subterranean tombs, and the unique San Nicola Basilica await on this 3-in-1 guided tour.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Central Rome
Meet your guide in the city center and climb aboard for a value-packed tour. Good news, if your hotel is in central Rome, you could be picked up from your lobby!
2 kms
10 mins
1
Holy Stairs
Within the Sancta Sanctorum next-door to the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran lies this revered relic believed to be the very steps where Christ stood before Pontius Pilate!
0.14 kms
1 mins
2
Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
This is Rome’s oldest and most prestigious basilica, and the pope’s official seat! Discover its grand Baroque architecture, stunning mosaics, and rich history with your expert guide.
1.5 kms
3 mins
3
Basilica of St. Mary Major
Marvel at the 5th-century mosaics in the nave depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, as well as an intricately decorated altar that houses the relics of the Holy Manger, believed to be from the nativity scene.
5.7 kms
19 mins
4
Catacombs of St. Callixtus
60 mins
Tickets included
This vast underground labyrinth reveals early Christian history with ancient passageways, exquisite frescoes, and the resting places of popes and martyrs.
0.6 kms
2 mins
5
Catacombs of St. Sebastian
Tickets included
Glimpse into its underground basilica, serene chapels, and the revered tomb of St. Sebastian. Look out for Bernini's Salvatore Mundi marble bust representing Jesus.
7.5 kms
25 mins
6
Central Rome
Fancy a sacred route? Tour two papal basilicas and two Christian catacombs.
Fancy a sacred route? Tour two papal basilicas and two Christian catacombs.
Inclusions
Piazza d'Aracoeli
Begin your guided tour from this central location in Rome, and end it at the Capuchin Crypt.
6 kms
18 mins
1
Catacombs of Domitilla
40 mins
Tickets included
Home to some of the grandest cubicula around, these catacombs boast an intricate network of tunnels and a 2nd-century semi-undergound Basilica dedicated to Saints Nereus and Achilleus.
6.8 kms
22 mins
2
Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
Tickets included
This part of the tour is unguided – turn up your audio guide and independently explore the hauntingly beautiful chapels decorated by skeletal art, blending the macabre with the spiritual.
3
Peek under Rome at the Domitilla Catacombs and the Capuchin Crypt, with all transfers included!
Peek under Rome at the Domitilla Catacombs and the Capuchin Crypt, with all transfers included!
Inclusions
Exclusions
An expertly led tour of the 17km-long tunnels in Rome's second largest catacombs – Domitilla.
An expertly led tour of the 17km-long tunnels in Rome's second largest catacombs – Domitilla.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Duration: 30 - 45 minutes
- Expert guides unpack historical, cultural, and architectural details, revealing the significance of the catacombs.
- In small groups of 22 people or fewer, you can be assured of an intimate and meaningful exploration.
- Tours are available in English, Italian, French, German, or Spanish, based on your choice!
We recommend these quick tours if you've already got transport from Rome and back sorted.
Recommended tours
Duration: 2 - 3.5 hours
- Travel comfortably from Rome's city center to the Christian catacombs on a panoramic bus, cutting down the logistics of your visit
- Historian guides offer intriguing facts, details, and anecdotes about the history and hidden aspects of the Eternal City in the language of your choosing!
Recommended tours
Duration: 3 - 3.5 hours
- Combine your experience with other landmarks, like the Capuchin Crypt, San Nicola in Carcere, or the Papal Basilicas along with the Holy Steps!
- All your transfers are sorted as you take creative routes to the subterranean layers of Rome.
- Led by a guide in preferred language, learn about Roman traditions entombed 2,000 years ago.
Recommended tours
The largest and most important catacomb complex in Rome, the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus features a vast network of tunnels and notable Christian burials and showcases ancient frescoes and intricate crypts carved into the rock.
Discover the Catcombs of Saint CallixtusOne of the oldest and largest catacombs in Rome, dating back to the second century AD, the Catacombs of Domitilla is known for its beautiful frescoes, and numerous sculptures that adorn the walls and ceilings reflect early Christian art and imagery.
Explore Domitilla CatacombsThe Catacombs of Saint Sebastian house the remains of Saint Sebastian and feature beautiful early Christian artwork. The labyrinthine tunnels feature ancient inscriptions and provide insights into the faith and customs of the early Christian community.
Discover the Catacombs of St. SebastainNotable for its intricate frescoes, including the renowned earliest known depiction of the Virgin Mary, these Catacombs were named after Priscilla, a generous benefactor who donated land for the Christian community to bury their dead.
Explore the Catacombs of PriscillaNamed after the revered Saint Agnes, the Catacombs provide a fascinating glimpse into early Christian burial practices. Descend into the underground chambers to discover beautifully preserved frescoes, intricate carvings, and the final resting place of the young martyr.
Explore Catacombs of Saint AgnesDescend into the depths of the catacombs and explore the sacred resting places of early Christians. These burial sites hold the remains of countless individuals, martyrs, and even Popes.
Address: Via Appia Antica, 136, 00179 Roma RM (1); Via Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Roma RM (2); Via delle Sette Chiese, 282, 00147 Roma RM (3); Via Salaria, 430, 00199 Roma RM (4); Via Nomentana, 349, 00162 Roma RM (5)
Find on Maps: Find on Map (1); Find on Map (2); Find on Map (3); Find on Map (4); Find on Map (5)
Reference: Catacombs of San Sebastiano (1); Catacombs of San Callisto (2); Catacombs of Domitilla (3); Catacombs of Priscilla (4); Catacombs of Sant’Agnese (5)
The catacombs are religious sites for Christians and a dress code must be followed. Ensure that your clothing covers your knees and shoulders.
No, most catacombs require visitors to be accompanied by a guide to ensure proper preservation, safety, and to provide valuable information about the historical significance of the site.
Most catacombs have limited accessibility due to their underground nature and uneven terrain. It is recommended to check with the specific catacomb you plan to visit for accessibility information and available accommodations.
The Roman Catacombs are located in various areas around Rome, Italy. Some of the well-known catacombs are situated along the Appian Way, one of the oldest and most important Roman roads. The Catacombs of St. Callixtus, Domitilla, and St. Sebastian are located along or near this historic route. Other catacombs, such as the Catacombs of Priscilla and St. Agnese, are found in different parts of the city.
Photography policies may vary among catacombs. In general, flash photography is not permitted due to preservation concerns, but some sites may allow you to take non-flash photographs. It is best to check the specific rules at the catacombs you plan to visit.
Depending on the catacombs' locations and your available time, it is possible to visit multiple catacombs in one day. However, consider travel times between sites and ensure you have ample time to fully explore each catacomb. This tour involves a guided pilgrimage to two catacombs, two papal basilicas, and the Holy Steps! First visit Sancta Sanctorum and its famous staircase, followed by St. John Lateran archbasilica and St. Mary Major basilica. It doesn't end there – onward to the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian! All with a historian in your chosen language.
To respect the sacred nature of the catacombs, it is recommended to dress modestly and appropriately, with shoulders and knees covered. Some catacombs may have specific dress code requirements, so it's best to check before your visit.
The cost of Roman Catacombs tours can vary depending on the specific tour, package, or combination of attractions included. On average, ticket prices for guided tours of the catacombs range from approximately €12 to €79 per person. However, prices may fluctuate based on factors such as the duration of the tour, the inclusion of additional attractions, and any special features or services provided. It is advisable to check our curated selection of experiences for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for the specific tour or package you are interested in.
Highlights of the Roman Catacombs tour include exploring the ancient Christian burial grounds, viewing the intricate frescoes depicting biblical scenes, as well as understanding the historical significance as sacred sites, symbolism in artwork, ancient inscriptions, impressive architecture, and its connection to Rome's cultural and religious heritage.
Consider this combo tour that takes you into one of the Christian Catacombs, the San Nicola Basilica, and the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars. The Capuchin Crypt cannot be explored with a guide. You will instead be provided an audio guide along with your tickets. Tune in and learn all about its underground chapels lined with skeletal art!