Explore the captivating remnants of ancient Rome on this half-day tour from the city. Venture underground into the renowned Roman Catacombs, where early Christians buried their dead, and uncover the hidden history etched into the catacombs’ walls. Then, journey along the historic Appian Way, one of the oldest and most strategic Roman roads, and witness the enduring architectural marvels that line this iconic thoroughfare. With skip-the-line access and a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore the fascinating stories that lie beneath the surface of these remarkable sites. What secrets will you uncover on this immersive exploration of Rome’s ancient past?
Key Points
- This half-day tour explores the ancient Appian Way and visits Christian catacombs like St. Callixtus, St. Sebastian, and St. Domitilla with skip-the-line access.
- The tour includes door-to-door hotel transfers and a local expert guide who provides insights into the historical significance of the sites.
- Convenience features include air-conditioned transportation, fixed schedule, and confirmation received at booking for a seamless experience.
- The tour is priced at $517.32 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and a non-refundable policy.
- Tipping is appreciated, offering flexibility to guests while balancing the operational needs of the tour.
Tour Overview
The tour begins with an exploration of the ancient Appian Way, one of the world’s first highways.
Visitors will have the chance to experience the burial sites of popes and martyrs by visiting the Christian catacombs of St. Callixtus, St. Sebastian, or St. Domitilla.
This private guided tour includes door-to-door hotel transfers, allowing guests to skip the lines and fully enjoy the historical and cultural significance of these ancient sites.
With a dedicated local expert guide, travelers will gain a deeper understanding of the catacombs and their role in early Christianity.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rome.
Inclusions
Typically, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.
Travelers will have a dedicated local expert guide to lead them through the historical sites.
Skip-the-line entrance tickets to one catacomb are provided, allowing quick access without waiting in long queues.
The air-conditioned, fully insured vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver transports guests comfortably.
While lunch and drinks aren’t included, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
This private tour is tailored to each group’s preferences and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can participate.
Pickup Information
Guests can start their immersive exploration of ancient Rome by being picked up directly from their accommodation in the city.
Pickup and drop-off are included, allowing for a seamless experience. Travelers can select their preferred pickup point at the time of booking. This convenient arrangement ensures guests are escorted to the starting point of the tour with ease.
The tour operates with a fixed schedule, providing a structured itinerary for visitors to follow. With the pickup logistics taken care of, guests can focus on seeing the captivating history and architecture of the Eternal City.
Tour Details
Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this captivating tour, which isn’t wheelchair accessible but can be enjoyed by most travelers.
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate. The tour can be customized upon request at booking.
During the catacomb visit, a small group tour guide provides commentary in English, Spanish, and Italian.
The tour includes skip-the-line entrance tickets to one of the city’s renowned catacombs, where popes and martyrs were buried.
An air-conditioned vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver provides door-to-door hotel transfers throughout the experience.
Pricing and Cancellation Policy
The tour is priced from $517.32 per person, with the actual cost varying based on the group size. The company offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring customers get the best deal.
However, the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds will be issued for cancellations. This policy provides guests with clarity and allows the tour operator to manage demand effectively.
While tipping is appreciated, it’s not mandatory, giving customers flexibility in how they choose to recognize the guide’s service. The pricing and cancellation policy strike a balance between affordability and operational needs.
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Explore Ancient Appian Way
One of the world’s first paved highways, the ancient Appian Way offers a captivating glimpse into Roman engineering and transportation history.
This iconic route, built in 312 BCE, stretches from Rome to the southern Italian coast, showcasing the ingenuity of Roman road construction.
Explorers will:
- Marvel at the impressive paving stones and construction techniques
- Discover ancient milestones and ruins along the way
- Imagine the bustling traffic of soldiers, merchants, and travelers from centuries past
- Appreciate the strategic importance of this vital trade and military route
- Gain a deeper understanding of the Roman Empire’s expansive infrastructure.
The Appian Way exemplifies the Romans’ unparalleled engineering prowess and their commitment to building a cohesive, interconnected civilization.
Visit Christian Catacombs
Visitors can explore several renowned Christian catacombs located just outside the walls of Rome. The tour includes skip-the-line access to one of the major catacombs, such as St. Callixtus, St. Sebastian, or St. Domitilla.
These underground burial sites were used by early Christians and contain the tombs of popes and martyrs. Guests will experience these sacred spaces with a knowledgeable local guide, who’ll provide insights into the history and significance of the catacombs.
The tour is a unique opportunity to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of early Christian life and traditions in Rome.
Burial Sites of Popes and Martyrs
Beneath the quiet streets of Rome, countless popes, bishops, and martyrs found their final resting place within the ancient Christian catacombs.
These sacred burial sites served as the final home for many of the earliest Christian leaders and believers. Visitors can explore these underground networks and pay respects to those who shaped the faith, including:
- Pope Callixtus I, who oversaw the expansion of the largest catacomb complex
- Pope Fabian, martyred under the Roman emperor Decius
- St. Sebastian, a Roman soldier and early Christian martyr
- St. Domitilla, a noblewoman and early Christian convert
These burial sites offer a profound connection to the origins of Christianity and the sacrifices of its earliest adherents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Requirements for the Private Tour?
The private tour requires a hotel pickup and drop-off, dedicated local expert guide, skip-the-line catacomb entrance tickets, and air-conditioned transportation with an English-speaking driver. Lunch, food, and drinks are not included, but tipping is appreciated.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?
The tour can be customized upon request at booking to accommodate specific interests. Travelers have the flexibility to personalize the experience according to their preferences.
How Long Does the Tour Typically Last?
The tour typically lasts around 4-5 hours, though it can be customized upon request at booking. The duration allows for an in-depth exploration of the ancient Appian Way and one catacomb site.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?
The tour is a private experience, so the group size is flexible and customized to the client’s needs. The maximum group size is not specified, allowing for a personalized and intimate exploration of the ancient sites.
Can Travelers Explore the Catacombs Independently?
Travelers cannot explore the catacombs independently on this tour. The tour includes a skip-the-line entrance and a small group tour guide who leads visitors through the catacombs. Independent exploration is not offered.
The Sum Up
This captivating half-day tour from Rome offers a unique opportunity to explore the Roman Catacombs and the historic Ancient Appian Way. Enjoy skip-the-line access to renowned catacombs, where a knowledgeable guide shares insights into early Christianity. With door-to-door hotel transfers, this tour provides a seamless experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the rich history and architecture of ancient Rome.
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