Tucked beneath the bustling streets of Rome lies a captivating world waiting to be explored. The "Underground Rome Tour: St. Clement and Celian Houses" invites curious travelers on a 3-hour journey through a labyrinth of forgotten churches, ancient senator homes, and abandoned shops. Led by knowledgeable guides, this adventure offers an unparalleled glimpse into Rome’s rich history and architectural wonders. From the remarkable Basilica of St. Clement to the ancient church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo, this tour promises to transport you back in time and leave you wondering what other secrets the Eternal City may hold beneath the surface.
Key Points
- This 3-hour underground tour explores a labyrinth of ancient churches, tombs, and Roman senators’ houses beneath the streets of Rome.
- The tour begins at the Basilica of St. Clement and visits the subterranean spring and ancient church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo.
- Guests will marvel at the well-preserved remnants of Roman architecture, including abandoned shops and temples, during this private group experience.
- The tour is led by professional guides who provide exceptional historical insights, enhancing the captivating exploration of Rome’s hidden history.
- With a moderate fitness level required, the tour offers an eye-opening journey 50 feet below the surface, transporting visitors back in time.
Tour Overview

The Underground Rome Tour promises an immersive experience into the ancient city’s hidden layers. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by past travelers, this 3-hour excursion ventures 50 feet below modern street level, uncovering a labyrinth of forgotten churches, tombs, and homes.
Explore the houses of Roman senators, abandoned shops, and a subterranean spring, all while learning about Rome’s captivating history from a professional guide. With 94% of visitors recommending the tour, it’s a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the Eternal City’s remarkable underground world.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the moderate fitness level required ensures an engaging and unforgettable journey through Rome’s remarkable past.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rome.
Itinerary Highlights
This immersive tour begins at the Basilica of St Clement, where visitors will descend into a labyrinth of hidden churches, temples, tombs, and narrow streets dating back centuries. The journey continues through the remnants of ancient Roman houses belonging to senators and the abandoned shops of a bygone era. Visitors will marvel at a subterranean spring and the ancient church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo on the Celian Hill, uncovering layer upon layer of Rome’s captivating past.
| Key Sites | Description |
|---|---|
| Labyrinth of hidden churches, temples, tombs, and narrow streets | Explore Rome’s underground world, dating back centuries |
| Houses of Roman senators | Discover the remnants of ancient Roman elite dwellings |
| Abandoned shops | Uncover the long-forgotten commercial spaces of old Rome |
| Subterranean spring | Marvel at the natural wonders hidden beneath the city streets |
| Ancient church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo | Visit this important religious site on the Celian Hill |
Inclusions and Costs

What’s included in the Underground Rome Tour? For one, you’ll have the expertise of a professional guide to lead you through the hidden wonders beneath the city.
While admission tickets aren’t covered – adults pay 25 euro, kids 18 euro – the tour itself is well worth the cost.
There’s no need to worry about transportation, either, as hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transport to and from the key sites, are all included.
Whether you’re descending 50 feet below street level to explore a labyrinth of ancient churches, tombs, and Roman senator homes or marveling at an abandoned subterranean spring, this tour packs a lot into its 3-hour duration.
Meeting and End Points
For the Underground Rome Tour, the meeting point is at the Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo, located in Piazza Dei SS. Giovanni e Paolo. This is where you’ll gather with your group and guide before embarking on your subterranean adventure.
After exploring the hidden sites, the tour concludes at the Basilica of San Clemente on Via Labicana. This ancient church, with its layers of history, is the perfect place to end your journey into Rome’s underground world.
With the meeting and end points conveniently located, you’ll be able to seamlessly transition between the tour’s highlights.
Additional Information
As you prepare to embark on this captivating Underground Rome Tour, there are a few additional details to keep in mind.
You’ll receive your booking confirmation either at the time of booking or within 48 hours if you booked within 7 days of travel.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most fitness levels, though claustrophobic individuals may find it challenging.
This is a private tour, so you’ll explore the subterranean wonders with just your group.
Keep in mind that churches may occasionally close for special events, and if this happens, the tour may be canceled with a full refund.
Get set for an eye-opening journey into Rome’s hidden history!
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Traveler Feedback
Travelers have been consistently captivated by the Underground Rome Tour, as evidenced by the overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Guides are consistently praised for their exceptional knowledge and engaging presentation style, providing participants with unique insights into Rome’s rich history and remarkable architecture.
Francesca, in particular, is highlighted as an exceptional guide, lauded for her expertise and personal approach.
Exploring the Underground
Descending beneath the bustling streets of Rome, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the city’s underground labyrinth. This immersive tour unveils a hidden world, where ancient temples, abandoned shops, and the remnants of Roman senators’ houses lie preserved.
Navigating narrow passageways, explorers are transported back in time, uncovering the remarkable history etched into the very foundations of the Eternal City. From the serene Basilica of St. Clement to the mysterious Santi Giovanni e Paolo church, each step reveals a new layer of Rome’s captivating past.
Knowledgeable guides bring these subterranean wonders to life, fostering a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Discovering Hidden History
Beneath the bustling streets of Rome, a hidden realm of ancient wonders beckons. The Underground Rome Tour takes adventurous travelers on a captivating journey through the city’s storied past.
Descending 50 feet below the surface, visitors explore a labyrinth of churches, temples, and the former homes of Roman senators. Traversing narrow streets and abandoned shops, the tour offers a unique perspective on Rome’s rich history.
At the Basilica of St. Clement, guests uncover layers of civilization, from an early Christian church to a pagan temple. Further discoveries await on Celian Hill, where the ancient church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo stands as a testament to Rome’s enduring legacy.
This underground adventure provides an unparalleled window into the city’s hidden past.
Since You Asked
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Absolutely! You’re welcome to take photos during the tour. The guides encourage it, as this unique underground experience offers incredible photo opportunities to capture the ancient architecture and hidden gems along the way.
How Strenuous Is the Walking Involved?
The tour involves moderate walking, with visitors descending about 50 feet below street level. Though not overly strenuous, participants should be prepared for some uphill climbs and uneven terrain. It’s an active but manageable experience for most travelers.
Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have an age limit, but it may not be suitable for very young children. It’s recommended for those with a moderate fitness level who can handle the 50-foot descent below street level. Families with older kids will likely enjoy the underground exploration.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tour?
While you’re free to bring snacks and water, the tour guide recommends holding off until the end. You’ll want to keep your hands free to explore the underground wonders without any distractions. The focus should be on enjoying Rome’s captivating history!
Are There Any Bathroom Facilities During the Tour?
The tour offers limited bathroom facilities, so it’s best to plan ahead. However, your friendly guide will be happy to point out any restroom stops along the way, ensuring you’re comfortable during this captivating exploration of Rome’s underground treasures.
Underground Rome Tour: St. Clement and Celian Houses
The Sum Up
Descend into a captivating realm beneath Rome’s bustling streets. Unlock the secrets of ancient churches, senator houses, and abandoned shops on this extraordinary underground tour. Marveling at the Basilica of St. Clement and Santi Giovanni e Paolo, you’ll uncover Rome’s rich history and architectural marvels. Don’t miss this chance to learn about the city’s captivating subterranean world.




















