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- Roman Catacombs
- Catacombs of Callixtus
- Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
- San Nicola
- Capuchin Crypt
- Catacombs of Domitilla
- Catacombs of Saint Agnes
- Catacombs of Commodilla
- Catacombs of Priscilla
- History
- Appian Way
- Christian Catacombs
- Jewish Catacombs
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- Rome Pantheon
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- Musei Capitolini
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- Rome Underground Tours
- Mamertine Prison
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- Rome: Ostia Antica
- Galleria Corsini
The Appian Way: Rome's ancient road of wonders
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
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 km
10 minutes
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 km
1 minute
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 km
3 minutes
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 km
19 minutes
4
Catacombs of St. Callixtus
60 min
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 km
2 minutes
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 km
25 minutes
6
END POINT
Central Rome
Tour Rome’s sacred landmarks—two Papal Basilicas and two ancient catacombs—in one experience.
- From Rome’s city center, head to the Sancta Sanctorum and glimpse the 'Holy Stairs', a relic of where Christ met Pontius Pilate before crucifixion!
- Visit the neighboring Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, seat of the pope, and the opulent Basilica of St. Mary Major atop Esquiline Hill.
- Next up, a trip down the winding catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian where ancient Roman rituals, art, and engineering 'come alive'.
- Relax with comfortable transfers between each location. A guide in your language of choice offers detailed insights at every stop.
Tour Rome’s sacred landmarks—two Papal Basilicas and two ancient catacombs—in one experience.
- From Rome’s city center, head to the Sancta Sanctorum and glimpse the 'Holy Stairs', a relic of where Christ met Pontius Pilate before crucifixion!
- Visit the neighboring Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, seat of the pope, and the opulent Basilica of St. Mary Major atop Esquiline Hill.
- Next up, a trip down the winding catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian where ancient Roman rituals, art, and engineering 'come alive'.
- Relax with comfortable transfers between each location. A guide in your language of choice offers detailed insights at every stop.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Holy Stairs at Sancta Sanctorum
- Guided tour of St. John Lateran Archbasilica & St. Mary Major Basilica
- Guided tour of St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs with entry
- Expert English, Italian, or Spanish-speaking guide
- Round-trip AC coach transfers from central Rome
- Tip: Find spiritually significant artworks and relics in the chapel at the top of the Holy Staircase.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible, and not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
- Photography and videography is prohibited inside the catacombs.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Piazza d'Aracoeli
Begin your guided tour from this central location in Rome, and end it at the Capuchin Crypt.
6 km
18 minutes
1
Catacombs of Domitilla
40 min
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 km
22 minutes
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 Capuchin Crypt and Domitilla Catacombs, with all transfers included!
- Tread the same paths as early Christians in the Catacombs of Domitilla, the oldest catacombs in Rome!
- Get expert guidance in your selected language as you view tombs laden with frescoes and sculptures memorializing loved ones.
- On Tuesdays, explore St. Callixtus Catacombs instead. Appreciate the intricate décor and enjoy seamless transfers to your next stop.
- Unpack the history of a Franciscan 'First Order' in the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars using an audio guide.
- A series of tiny underground chapels with 'calcified' art make up its crypt, reflecting memento mori – a reminder of mortality!
Peek under Rome at the Capuchin Crypt and Domitilla Catacombs, with all transfers included!
- Tread the same paths as early Christians in the Catacombs of Domitilla, the oldest catacombs in Rome!
- Get expert guidance in your selected language as you view tombs laden with frescoes and sculptures memorializing loved ones.
- On Tuesdays, explore St. Callixtus Catacombs instead. Appreciate the intricate décor and enjoy seamless transfers to your next stop.
- Unpack the history of a Franciscan 'First Order' in the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars using an audio guide.
- A series of tiny underground chapels with 'calcified' art make up its crypt, reflecting memento mori – a reminder of mortality!
Inclusions
- Half-day tour around Domitilla Catacombs and Capuchin Crypt
- Guided tour of Domitilla Catacombs with entry (except Tuesday)
- Guided tour of St. Callixtus Catacombs with entry (only Tuesday)
- Expert English, Italian, German, French, or Spanish-speaking guide
- Round-trip AC coach transfers from central Rome
- Entry to the Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars with audio guide
Exclusions
- Guided tour of the Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
- Tip: In the Domitilla Catacombs, keep an eye out for the restored 'room of the bakers' with its prophetic frescoes.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible, and not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
- Photography and videography is prohibited inside the catacombs.
- Please note that from now until January 14, the experience includes a visit to the Catacombs of San Callisto. Between January 15 and January 21, the focus shifts to the Catacombs of San Sebastiano. Starting January 22, visitors will explore the Catacombs of Domitilla.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Explore Rome’s second-largest catacombs, home to a rare underground basilica.
- Join an expertly led tour of the 17km-long tunnels in one of Rome's largest catacombs – Domitilla.
- 30 meters down, find a semi-underground basilica unique to the Catacombs of Domitilla, dedicated to martyrs Nereus and Achileus!
- Richly adorned tombs called cubicula contain decorative arches and Biblical frescoes like that of ‘Daniel with the lions’ and 'Noah's ark' .
- Hear all about early Christian burial practices and their significance from expert guides in your chosen language!
Explore Rome’s second-largest catacombs, home to a rare underground basilica.
- Join an expertly led tour of the 17km-long tunnels in one of Rome's largest catacombs – Domitilla.
- 30 meters down, find a semi-underground basilica unique to the Catacombs of Domitilla, dedicated to martyrs Nereus and Achileus!
- Richly adorned tombs called cubicula contain decorative arches and Biblical frescoes like that of ‘Daniel with the lions’ and 'Noah's ark' .
- Hear all about early Christian burial practices and their significance from expert guides in your chosen language!
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Domitilla Catacombs with entry
- Expert English, Italian, German, or Spanish-speaking guide
Exclusions
- Round-trip transfers from Rome
- Tip: Keep an eye out for a few cubicula depicting non-Biblical images, like Orpheus, or Spring and Summer with wings!
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible, and not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues.
- There are several irregular steps to descend and ascend, with no seating area or elevator.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
- Photography and videography is prohibited inside the catacombs.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore Rome's underground stadium complex on this audio-guided tour.
- Learn more about the stadium and its history from your audio guide, available in multiple languages.
- See many artifacts from the days of the Roman Empire found during archaeological excavations, including fragments of sculptures and more.
- Explore Rome's underground stadium complex on this audio-guided tour.
- Learn more about the stadium and its history from your audio guide, available in multiple languages.
- See many artifacts from the days of the Roman Empire found during archaeological excavations, including fragments of sculptures and more.
Inclusions
- Entrance to the underground archaeological site of the Stadium of Domitian
- Audioguide in Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese & Russian
- Keep in mind, bottles, glasses containers, alcoholic beverages, aerosols, large luggage or bags and pets are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
- This experience is pram/stroller accessible.
- Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not the best fit for guests with the claustrophobia of small spaces.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Jubilee Bronze Pass: Vatican Museums + Catacombs of St. Callixtus
from €116.90
€107.55
8% off
The perfect combo: Explore the Vatican’s masterpieces and the ancient Christian catacombs
- Take advantage of this super-saver combo with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums with the Sistine Chapel and the Roman Catacombs.
- Marvel at Renaissance masterpieces like Raphael's School of Athens, and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with your expert guide.
- Interpret the symbolism within the iconic sculptures and murals at the Museum with 5 languages to choose from.
- Explore the labyrinthine Catacombs, adorned with flickering torches where early Christians lay their dead underground.
- View the winding tunnels full of faded frescoes of biblical scenes and cryptic symbols with your expert guide.
The perfect combo: Explore the Vatican’s masterpieces and the ancient Christian catacombs
- Take advantage of this super-saver combo with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums with the Sistine Chapel and the Roman Catacombs.
- Marvel at Renaissance masterpieces like Raphael's School of Athens, and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with your expert guide.
- Interpret the symbolism within the iconic sculptures and murals at the Museum with 5 languages to choose from.
- Explore the labyrinthine Catacombs, adorned with flickering torches where early Christians lay their dead underground.
- View the winding tunnels full of faded frescoes of biblical scenes and cryptic symbols with your expert guide.
Inclusions
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Expert English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German-speaking guide
Roman Catacombs
- Guided tour of the Catacombs
- Roundtrip city transfers
Exclusions
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Roman Catacombs
- Hotel transfers
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Tip: Stop for a coffee in the Belvedere Courtyard, or extend your visit to the Carriage Pavillion at the end of the tour.
- Strict dress code: knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
- The tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, but the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments and a companion.
Roman Catacombs - Tip: Spend time at the museum located inside the catacombs of Saint Callixtus, which features artifacts and exhibits related to early Christianity.
- Entry to the catacombs of Saint Callixtus is replaced by Domitilla
as the former remains closed every Wednesday. - The experience is not accessible for people who are claustrophobic due to the small spaces.
- Large bags are not allowed.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Alcohol and aerosols are not allowed.
- Strict Dress Code: Guests should cover their shoulders and knees.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Jubilee Silver Pass: Vatican Museums + Catacombs of St. Callixtus + Castel Sant’Angelo
from €134.80
€124.02
8% off
Tour the golden trio: The Vatican, Catacombs, and Castel Sant’Angelo, all in one pass
- Save big with a combo of a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, the Roman Catacombs, and a visit to Castel Sant'Angelo.
- Marvel at Renaissance paintings like Raphael's School of Athens, and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with your expert guide.
- Interpret the symbolism within the Renaissance sculptures and murals at the Museum with 5 languages to choose from.
- Explore the labyrinthine Catacombs, adorned with flickering torches where early Christians lay their dead underground.
- Discover 5 floors of Roman sculptures and weaponry at Castel Sant'Angelo and the Tomb of Hadrian with its imposing cylindrical form.
Tour the golden trio: The Vatican, Catacombs, and Castel Sant’Angelo, all in one pass
- Save big with a combo of a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, the Roman Catacombs, and a visit to Castel Sant'Angelo.
- Marvel at Renaissance paintings like Raphael's School of Athens, and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with your expert guide.
- Interpret the symbolism within the Renaissance sculptures and murals at the Museum with 5 languages to choose from.
- Explore the labyrinthine Catacombs, adorned with flickering torches where early Christians lay their dead underground.
- Discover 5 floors of Roman sculptures and weaponry at Castel Sant'Angelo and the Tomb of Hadrian with its imposing cylindrical form.
Inclusions
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Expert English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German-speaking guide
Roman Catacombs
- Guided tour of the Catacombs
- Roundtrip city transfers
Castel Sant'Angelo
- Entry to Castel Sant'Angelo and the terrace
Exclusions
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Roman Catacombs
- Hotel transfers
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Tip: Stop for a coffee in the Belvedere Courtyard, or extend your visit to the Carriage Pavillion at the end of the tour.
- Strict dress code: knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
- The tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, but the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments and a companion.
Roman Catacombs - Tip: Spend time at the museum located inside the catacombs of Saint Callixtus, which features artifacts and exhibits related to early Christianity.
- Strict Dress Code: Guests should cover their shoulders and knees.
- Entry to the catacombs of Saint Callixtus is replaced by Domitilla
as the former remains closed every Wednesday. - The experience is not accessible for people who are claustrophobic due to the small spaces.
- Large bags are not allowed.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Alcohol and aerosols are not allowed.
Castel Sant'Angelo
- Tip: For a unique experience, visit during sunset to enjoy breathtaking views of Rome from the terrace.
- The attraction is closed on Mondays.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, people with mobility issues won't be able to access all spaces of the monument.
- Large bags are not allowed.
- Free admission on 1st Sunday of every month.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Top things to do in Rome
Quick Facts about Appian Way
- Official name: Via Appia Antica
- Location: Via Appia Antica, 42, 00178 Roma RM, Italy
- Date of opening: 312 BC
- Architect: Appius Claudius Caecus (for the original construction)
- Architectural style: Ancient Roman
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Declared in 1980
- Number of visitors per year: Over 500,000
- Function: Important ancient road connecting Rome to southeastern Italy.
Why Visit the Appian Way?
- Explore ancient Rome: Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans and discover the historical significance of the road that connected Rome to the rest of Italy.
- Historic mausoleums: Admire the stunning architecture and intricate carvings of the many mausoleums along the way, including the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella and the Tomb of Seneca.
- Catacombs: Journey underground and explore the Catacombs of San Callisto, one of the largest and most significant Christian burial sites in Rome.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the stunning views of the Italian countryside, as well as the lush vegetation and wildlife along the route.
- Visit the museums: Visit the many museums that dot the Appian Way, including the Museum of Roman Civilization and the Museum of the Walls, to learn more about the history and significance of the ancient road.
- Outdoor activities: Go cycling, hiking, or horseback riding along the scenic route and explore the beauty of nature at its best.
Plan Your Visit to the Appian Way
What is the Appian Way Opening Hours?
The Appian Way is open to visitors 24/7. However, the archaeological sites along the way have varying hours depending on the season and day of the week. You should ensure that you check the individual attraction's opening hours before visiting.
Best Time to Visit: During the spring and fall months when the weather is mild. Additionally, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon ensures fewer crowds.
Rome Catacombs' Opening Hours
Where is the Appian Way Located?
Address: Via Appia Antica, 42, 00178 Roma RM, Italy
The Appian Way is located in the southeastern part of Rome, just outside the city walls. It stretches for about 10 miles from the city center to the countryside.
Getting There
To reach the Appian Way, you can take the metro to the Colli Albani stop and then a bus heading to Appio Latino or Ardeatina. Alternatively, you can take bus number 118 from the Piramide station.
Highlights of the Appian Way
Catacombs
Visitors can explore the underground burial chambers and see the ancient artwork and inscriptions that decorate the walls. Some of the most notable catacombs along the Appian Way include the Catacombs of San Callisto, San Sebastiano, and Domitilla.
Aqueducts
The Appian Way is also home to several impressive aqueducts, which were once used to transport water into the city. The most prominent of these is the Aqua Claudia, which dates back to the 1st century AD. Visitors can see the towering arches and intricate engineering that went into these massive structures.
Churches
The Appian Way is dotted with several beautiful churches that are well worth a visit. Some of the most notable include the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, and the Church of the Domine Quo Vadis. These buildings showcase a range of architectural styles and are filled with stunning artwork and religious relics.
Villas
The Appian Way is home to several impressive villas, a must-see for those interested in ancient Roman architecture. The most famous of these is the Villa of the Quintilii, which was once owned by the powerful Quintilii brothers. Visitors can explore the villa's impressive ruins and see the intricate mosaics and frescoes that adorn the walls.
History of the Appian Way
The Appian Way is one of the oldest and most important roads in ancient Rome. Its history dates back to its construction in 312 BC, commissioned by the Roman Republic and overseen by Appius Claudius Caecus, a prominent Roman patrician and politician. The road served as a vital artery for Rome, originally intended to connect Rome with Capua, a city in southern Italy. However, it was later extended to Brindisi, a port city on the Adriatic Sea.
The construction of the Appian Way faced numerous challenges, including rocky terrains and swampy areas, which required innovative engineering techniques for stability. Over the centuries, the road was widened and improved, playing a significant role in Rome's transportation and commerce.
The Appian Way was an important military and commercial route for the Roman Empire. It was used to transport troops and supplies and to facilitate trade between Rome and the rest of the Mediterranean world. The road was also a popular pilgrimage route, and many Christian saints are said to have traveled along it.
Frequently Asked Questions about Appian Way
What is Appian Way?
Appian Way is one of the most important ancient roads in Rome, Italy, which dates back to 312 BC. It was built to connect Rome to Brindisi, in southern Italy.
Where can I buy Appian Way tickets?
Entry to the Appian Way and its attractions is generally free. However, some museums or guided tours may have admission fees. You can purchase tickets for them online or at the respective ticket counters. We recommend buying them online to avoid the odds of tickets selling out on the day of your visit.
Who designed the Appian Way?
The original construction of the Appian Way was overseen by Appius Claudius Caecus, a Roman patrician and politician.
When was the Appian Way built?
The construction of the Appian Way began in 312 BC and continued over the following years, with subsequent improvements and expansions.
What historical monuments are there along the Appian Way?
The Appian Way is home to several historical monuments such as the Tomb of Cecilia Metella, the Circus of Maxentius, the Catacombs of Rome, the Villa of the Quintilii, and the Mausoleum of Caecilia Metella.
What to do on the Appian Way?
There are many things to see and do on the Appian Way. Some of the tourist attractions along the Appian Way include the Catacombs of San Callisto and the Catacombs of San Sebastiano as well as various basilicas and tombs. The stretch close to Rome of the Via Appia Antica is now part of a nature and archaeological park, the Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica
What is the best time to visit Appian Way?
The best time to visit the Appian Way is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. However, it can get crowded during peak season.
Where is the Appian Way located?
The Appian Way is located in Rome, Italy. Its address is Via Appia Antica, Rome.
What is the best way to reach Appian Way?
The easiest way to reach the Appian Way is by taking the metro to the Colli Albani stop and then taking a bus heading to Appio Latino or Ardeatina. You can also reach here by taxi.
How much time should I spend on the Appian Way?
It depends on your interest, but you should keep at least a half-day to explore the area and appreciate the ancient monuments in a leisurely way. However, if you are a history buff, you can easily spend a whole day here.
What should I wear when visiting Appian Way?
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and casual clothing as you need to walk around a lot. Remember to carry a hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water during summer.
