Rome: Appian Way, Aqueducts & Catacombs at Closing Time

Exploring the ancient wonders of Rome at closing time offers a unique and captivating experience. This guided tour takes visitors along the historic Appian Way, showcasing the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella and the iconic Roman aqueducts. The highlight, however, lies in the exclusive access granted to the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, where an expert guide leads the way through this remarkable underground necropolis. With a small group size and private transportation, the tour promises an intimate and enlightening journey through Rome’s storied past.

Key Points

• This small-group tour explores the historic Appian Way, iconic Roman aqueducts, and the exclusive Catacombs of San Sebastiano during closing time.
• The 195-minute tour is priced at $64.03 per person and includes round-trip transportation, an expert English-speaking guide, and entry to the catacombs.
• Highlights of the tour include the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, a well-preserved 1st-century BCE tomb along the Appian Way.
• The tour offers an intimate experience with a maximum of 18 participants and is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues or claustrophobia.
• Visitors must adhere to a dress code and religious site protocols, and no photography is allowed inside the catacombs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This tour, titled "Rome: Appian Way, Aqueducts & Catacombs at Closing Time," offers a comprehensive exploration of some of Rome’s most iconic historical sites.

Priced from $64.03 per person, it lasts 195 minutes and is limited to small groups of 18 or fewer.

Highlights include the ancient Appian Way, the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, iconic Roman aqueducts, and exclusive access to the Catacombs of San Sebastiano at closing time.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, an expert English-speaking guide, and entry to the catacombs.

Advance booking is recommended, as this experience is likely to sell out.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour explores the historic Appian Way, one of Rome’s oldest roads dating back to the 4th century BCE.

Guests will visit the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, a well-preserved 1st-century BCE tomb along the Appian Way.

The tour also includes stops at iconic Roman aqueducts and the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, which visitors can experience during closing time for a more intimate atmosphere.

Transportation between sites is provided via private, air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and efficient exploration of these remarkable ancient landmarks.

Tour Features

Featuring a live tour guide who provides commentary in English, the tour offers an intimate small-group experience, with a maximum of 18 participants.

Entry to the Catacombs of San Sebastiano is included, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore this historical underground site.

Transportation between the sites is provided via a private, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.

The expertly guided tour promises to deliver immersive historical insights, allowing participants to gain a deeper understanding of Rome’s iconic Appian Way, aqueducts, and Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella.

Exploring the Appian Way

One of the iconic landmarks featured on this tour is the historic Appian Way, one of Rome’s oldest and most significant roads.

Constructed in the 4th century BCE, the Appian Way connected Rome to the southern parts of Italy. Along this ancient thoroughfare, visitors will see the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, a grand funerary monument dating back to the 1st century BCE.

The tour also provides the opportunity to stand beneath the imposing Roman aqueducts, marveling at the impressive engineering feats that supplied water to the ancient city.

Exploring these historic sites offers a glimpse into Rome’s rich past.

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Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella

Along the historic Appian Way stands the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, a grand funerary monument dating back to the 1st century BCE.

This massive circular structure stands 20 meters tall and serves as a testament to the wealth and power of the influential Caecilii family.

Visitors can marvel at the impressive stonework and intricate decorative elements that adorn the exterior.

The mausoleum provides a glimpse into the lavish burial practices of ancient Rome, offering a fascinating historical perspective on the culture and society of the time.

Iconic Roman Aqueducts

As visitors continue along the Appian Way, they will be met with the sight of Rome’s iconic aqueducts.

These grand structures were engineering marvels, designed to transport water from distant sources to the city. Massive arches of stone and brick span the landscape, rising high above the ground.

The aqueducts represent the advanced construction capabilities of the Roman Empire. Today, these landmarks provide a glimpse into the past, showcasing the ingenuity and ambition that defined ancient Rome.

The aqueducts represent the advanced construction capabilities of the Roman Empire, providing a glimpse into the ingenuity and ambition of ancient Rome.

Touring the aqueducts offers a unique opportunity to explore the engineering feats that supported the city’s growth and prosperity.

Closing-Time Access to the Catacombs

What better way to cap off a day exploring Rome’s ancient wonders than by visiting the Catacombs of San Sebastiano?

This tour grants access to the catacombs during closing time, allowing visitors to experience the site in a more intimate setting. The underground labyrinth of tunnels and burial chambers offers a unique glimpse into early Christian history.

The tour guide provides in-depth commentary, sharing the rich history and significance of this sacred site. While photography is prohibited, the visual splendor and solemn atmosphere make this a truly captivating end to the day’s discoveries along the Appian Way.

Important Considerations and Restrictions

This tour has some important considerations and restrictions prospective participants should be aware of. It is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or wheelchair users.

The dress code requires long-sleeved shirts and long pants – no shorts, sleeveless shirts, or short skirts are permitted. Additionally:

• No photography is allowed inside the catacombs.

• Religious site protocol requires covering shoulders and knees.

• This is a walking tour with a moderate pace required.

Attendees should keep these guidelines in mind to ensure they have an enjoyable and comfortable experience on this unique tour.

Ask Away

Is the Tour Offered in Languages Other Than English?

The tour details do not indicate if the tour is offered in languages other than English. The information provided focuses on an English-language tour experience with a live tour guide.

Can I Bring Large Bags or Luggage on the Tour?

Large bags and luggage are generally not permitted on the tour. The tour involves a moderate pace of walking and requires participants to navigate through confined spaces. For the comfort and safety of all guests, oversized items are typically not allowed.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Families?

The tour may not be suitable for families with young children. It involves extensive walking and visiting sites that may not be engaging for children. The tour is geared towards adults and older teenagers.

Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance or Can I Purchase It On-Site?

The tour can be booked in advance, as it is mentioned to be "likely to sell out". However, a "Reserve now & pay later option" is also available, allowing for convenient on-site purchase if spots are still available.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Catacombs During the Tour?

No, photography is not allowed inside the catacombs during the tour. The tour protocol requires visitors to cover their shoulders and knees, and prohibits taking photographs within the religious site.

Final Words

This immersive tour offers an exclusive opportunity to explore ancient Roman landmarks during the tranquil closing hours. Travelers will journey along the historic Appian Way, visit the impressive Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, marvel at iconic aqueducts, and gain private access to the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, all while accompanied by an expert guide in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby