from
$94
Underground Catacombs & Appian Way Walking Tour in Rome
Skip the general admissions lines and explore underground burial chambers with an expert local guide
What's included
Descend into early Christian Rome
Expert English-speaking guide
Pre-reserved Catacombs of San Sebastian tickets
Guided tour of the Catacombs
Appian Way walking tour
Circus of Maxentius exploration
Visit the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella & the Mausoleum of Romulus
Guide tips
Itinerary
Your tour begins at the Appia Antica Caffè
Meet your guide in front of the Appia Antica Caffè on Via Appia Antica, in Rome's peaceful southern outskirts. After a warm welcome and a quick overview, set off on foot down one of the world's oldest roads.
Stroll the ancient Via Appia
Next, follow the basalt paving stones of the Via Appia, laid in 312 BC to link Rome to the south. Towering pines and crumbling tombs frame the route as your guide shares tales of the emperors and armies who traveled here.
Admire the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella
Pause at the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, a massive cylindrical tomb built for a noblewoman around 30 BC. Later fortified into a medieval castle, its weathered stone walls reveal how Rome reused its monuments for centuries.
Explore the Circus of Maxentius
Then walk to the Circus of Maxentius, a remarkably preserved Roman chariot-racing track from the 4th century. Picture roaring crowds and thundering chariots in this vast arena, once part of the emperor's private complex.
Step inside the Mausoleum of Romulus
Beside the arena rises the Mausoleum of Romulus, built by Emperor Maxentius for his son who died young around 309 AD. Circular walls and a grassy courtyard mark this quiet, moving tribute set among umbrella pines.
Descend into the Catacombs of San Sebastian
Skip the general admissions lines and use pre-reserved tickets to head underground into the Catacombs of San Sebastian, where early Christians buried their dead. Your guide leads you through dim tunnels of soft tufa rock, sharing tales of the early Church.
Your tour ends at the Appia Antica Caffè
Finally, return along the Via Appia to the Appia Antica Caffè where you began. Say goodbye to your guide with a deeper knowledge of early Christian Rome, then linger for a coffee or explore the peaceful road at your own pace.
For Reference Only. Itineraries are subject to change
Select participants and date
Start times are in the product’s local time
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!
Tue, 22 Sep 2026
Meeting and drop-off point
Important Details
Discover what to expect, what's included, and everything you need to know before booking.
Good to know:
Dress Code: The Catacombs of San Sebastian are a sacred burial site, so both men and women must wear long pants or a skirt covering the knees, with shoulders covered. Guests who do not meet the dress code may be refused entry.
Accessibility: This tour covers uneven ancient terrain along the Via Appia and includes stairs inside the catacombs. It is not recommended for travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions. If you have concerns about your mobility, please contact us in advance to discuss your needs.
Weather Advisory: Much of this tour takes place outdoors along the Via Appia, so it runs rain or shine. Check the forecast and dress for the day, since you'll spend time walking outside before heading underground.
Family Friendly: Kids are welcome to explore the ancient road and catacombs with the group. Please keep in mind the tour involves a fair amount of walking and stairs inside the catacombs.
Catacomb Tickets: Your pre-reserved entry ticket to the Catacombs of San Sebastian is included, so you’ll head straight into security and go underground without waiting in the general admission line.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can depart on time.
Your tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Pre-reserved access to the Catacombs of San Sebastian
Guided walking tour of the ancient Via Appia
Visits to the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, Circus of Maxentius, and Mausoleum of Romulus
What to bring:
Comfortable walking shoes
Clothing that covers knees and shoulders
Water bottle
Valid ID
See what people are saying
4.95
111 Ratings
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Leo V.
November 28, 2025
Fantastic Tour
Yash T.
November 28, 2025
The Appian Way is stunning and the Catacombs are must-see!! Our guide's insights were invaluable that made it incredibly rewarding experience!!
Paddy T.
November 25, 2025
Oscar S.
November 20, 2025
Dara R.
November 15, 2025
Ronan P.
November 09, 2025
Path Past Echo
Vedant T.
November 09, 2025
Walking Appian Way stepped us back in time. Guide shared emperor stories simply. Peaceful ruins morning.
Seán O.
November 03, 2025
Chill Tomb Dive
Ayush E.
October 30, 2025
Catacombs chilly, mysterious. Guide explained Christian history easily. Perfect hot day underground escape.
Cillian M.
October 24, 2025
Line Skip Smooth
Samarth P.
October 17, 2025
No catacomb wait with tickets. Walked right in, explored tunnels immediately with guide.
Excellent experience!
Andy B.
October 14, 2025
We enjoyed our walking tour of the Appian Way with our tour guide, Silvia. She was very friendly and informative and had a real interest in the history she was telling us about. We appreciated it so much. The Catacombs tour was very meaningful and special to us as we felt very close to the believers if the early church. However, we would have appreciated a slightly slower tour as we felt a bit rushed through the tunnels. But wonderful tour nonetheless. Thanks!
Finn L.
October 12, 2025
Archie K.
September 30, 2025
Fresh Dawn Road
Shaurya C.
September 29, 2025
9:30 meet, fresh air, quiet path. No crowds, guide's energy perfect all morning.
Awesome
Pranav R.
September 26, 2025
The Catacombs were mind-blowing & the Appian Way provided incredible views!! Our guide's storytelling was exceptional!!
Symbol Wall Wonder
Advik M.
September 23, 2025
San Sebastian catacombs symbols cool. Guide pointed out, explained faith simply, engagingly.
Delightful Tour
Dhruv C.
September 20, 2025
The Appian Way is beautiful and the Catacombs are a profound experience!! Our guide was superb & full of knowledge!!
Max J.
September 18, 2025
Tower Tomb Gaze
Kabir R.
September 17, 2025
Cecilia Metella mausoleum huge up close. Guide told family tale simply. Great photo spot.
Beyond Expectations
Shlok H.
September 14, 2025
This tour was a fantastic discovery! The ancient Appian Way is simply beautiful & the Catacombs are so historically rich!! Our guide was excellent!!
Simply Breathtaking
Vivan N.
September 11, 2025
What an amazing experience- Exploring the Appian Way's history and natural beauty was unforgettable!! The Catacombs were beautiful!! Our guide shared so many fascinating facts made it truly engaging and memorable!!
Chariot Path Dream
Aarush A.
September 08, 2025
Maxentius Circus ruins thrilled. Imagined races walking track. Guide made history fun, real.
Tom H.
September 06, 2025
Stone History Touch
Ishan B.
September 05, 2025
Touched Appian stones, history alive. Guide answered questions patiently, no group rush.