Jubilee 2025 Rome: Catacombs and the Appian Way

If you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist trail and uncover some of Rome’s lesser-known treasures, this private tour of the Catacombs of San Callisto and the Appian Way offers a compelling experience. It’s perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone eager to see a different side of Rome—one that’s underground and along ancient cobblestones.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide ensures you gain insights that large groups often miss. Second, the seamless hotel pickup and private transportation mean you’re freed from the hassle of navigating busy streets and public transit. The only potential drawback? It involves a fair amount of walking and some confined spaces, so those with mobility issues or claustrophobia might want to consider that before booking.

This tour is an excellent fit for visitors who appreciate authentic experiences and want to explore Rome’s ancient Christian sites and roads with comfort and expert guidance. It suits those with a curiosity about early Rome, religious history, or simply seeking a rich, immersive half-day adventure.

Key Points

• Private, Guided Experience: Personalized insights with a knowledgeable guide make this more than just sightseeing.
• Historical Highlights: Visit ancient Christian burial sites and walk along the storied Appian Way.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and private transport save time and effort.
• Authentic Insights: Learn about early Christian history and Roman engineering from your guide.
• Limited Crowds: Smaller groups and private tours mean more attention and less hustle.
• Cost-Effective: For roughly $100, you gain access to significant sites with transportation and entrance included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Hidden Sides of Rome

When most travelers visit Rome, they stick to the iconic piazzas, basilicas, and ruins. But a sizable part of Rome’s story is buried beneath the surface—literally. That’s where this tour shines. It’s designed for those who want a more intimate, detailed look at the city’s underground burial sites and ancient roads, which are often overlooked.

We loved the personal touch of a private guide, which translates into tailored storytelling and the chance to ask questions freely. The experience begins with a convenient hotel pickup, meaning you avoid the hassle of finding meeting points or navigating public transit. After that, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle—a welcome relief in the Roman heat—while your guide provides context along the way.

The tour’s core is a 45-minute guided visit inside the Catacombs of San Callisto, one of the oldest and most significant Christian burial sites in Rome. You’ll see ancient tombs, frescoes, and learn about early Christian worship practices. It’s a quiet, contemplative space that reveals a different side of Rome—one that’s deeply spiritual and historical.

Next, you’ll walk or drive along parts of the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica), a route that was once considered the backbone of the Roman Empire’s infrastructure. The cobblestone path still echoes the footsteps of Roman soldiers and merchants. Walking along it, you’ll appreciate how engineering and strategic placement helped Rome expand and sustain itself.

Visiting Chiesa del Domine Quo Vadis

A highlight of this tour is the visit to the Chiesa del Domine Quo Vadis, a tiny church southeast of Rome, famous for the legend of Saint Peter. According to tradition, Peter asked Jesus, “Quo Vadis?” (“Where are you going?”) as he fled persecution, and Jesus replied that he was headed to Rome to be crucified again. This story, captured in this modest church, connects visitors to the very roots of Christian tradition and offers a reflective pause in your journey.

The Scenic Drive and Additional Stops

Beyond the core sites, the tour includes several scenic stops that add context and beauty to your experience. You’ll see the Aurelian Walls, which still encircle parts of Rome, the Pyramid of Cestius, an unusual tomb from Egypt-inspired Roman architecture, and the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls, one of the city’s most important religious sites.

The Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) offers a peaceful spot with a lovely view over Rome, perfect for a quick photo or a moment of repose. The Aventine Keyhole is a quirky, well-known secret: peeking through a door’s keyhole reveals a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica—something fun to share on social media.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

This tour lasts about 4 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate amount of walking and exploring confined spaces, like the catacombs. Comfortable walking shoes are essential—Rome’s cobblestones aren’t kind to heels or flip-flops.

The private transportation is air-conditioned, and Wi-Fi is available onboard, making the journey as comfortable as possible. The tour includes entrance tickets to the sites, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs.

While the tour is excellent value at around $100 per person, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included. There are plenty of nearby cafes if you want to grab a quick snack afterward.

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Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

Guests consistently praise the guides—Patrick and Parisa—for their knowledgeable, patient, and personable approach. One reviewer remarked, “Parisa was absolutely wonderful. Very knowledgeable and patient with us. We learnt a lot.” It’s clear that having a guide who can weave stories and answer questions makes this experience memorable.

The reviews also emphasize the small group atmosphere and personalized attention, making this more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an educational journey tailored to your interests.

The Value of this Tour

Compared to large group bus tours or self-guided trips, this private experience offers greater flexibility, deeper insights, and more comfort. The inclusion of pickup, drop-off, and entrance fees, combined with expert guidance, makes the cost worthwhile. Plus, you’ll have the chance to explore sites that are rarely crowded, giving you a more intimate connection with Rome’s underground past.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just the surface of Rome—those curious about early Christian history, Roman engineering, or simply seeking a peaceful, immersive experience. It’s also suitable for anyone who values personalized service and comfortable transportation.

However, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or claustrophobia, given the confined spaces in the catacombs. If you prefer to stay in the open air or avoid walking on uneven surfaces, you might want to consider other options.

This private tour of the Catacombs of San Callisto and the Appian Way offers a meaningful way to see parts of Rome that many visitors overlook. With expert guides, private transportation, and a carefully curated itinerary, you gain a richer understanding of the early Christian community and Roman infrastructure.

The experience balances historical depth with comfort and convenience, making it well worth the modest price. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a religious pilgrim, or just a curious traveler, this tour provides a memorable glimpse into Rome’s hidden, underground layers.

In short, if you want to explore Rome’s lesser-known treasures with a knowledgeable guide and a comfortable setup, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s a unique blend of history, scenery, and storytelling—perfect for those who want to see the city’s soul beneath the surface.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rome, making it very convenient for travelers staying in the city.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including travel time between sites and guided visits.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance fees to the catacombs, basilicas, and other sites are included in the price.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or claustrophobia because of the walking involved and the confined spaces in the catacombs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and a camera are recommended. Be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This tour offers a distinctive way to experience Rome’s underground and historic roads without the crowds, led by guides who bring the city’s stories to life. Whether for a half-day adventure or a deeper look into early Christian history, it’s a memorable and well-priced option.

You can check availability for your dates here: