Catacombs and Appian Way Tour

The Catacombs and Appian Way Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Rome’s ancient past. Visitors can explore the historic Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, walk along the iconic Appian Way, and marvel at the Circus of Maxentius and Tomb of Cecilia Metella. With round-trip transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an intimate and educational journey. However, photography is prohibited inside the catacombs, so travelers will need to capture the experience through their memories. For those seeking to uncover the secrets of Rome’s underground world and enjoy its rich history, this tour is certainly worth considering.

Key Points

• This highly-rated tour in Rome includes visits to the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, Circus of Maxentius, Claudian Aqueduct, and the Tomb of Cecilia Metella.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary, although some audio issues have been reported by past participants.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but strollers are allowed, and claustrophobic individuals may find the catacombs uncomfortable.
• Travelers can expect round-trip transportation, licensed guides, and headsets for audio clarity, with gratuities included in the tour price.
• Past participants have praised the historical significance of the sites and the opportunity to walk along the iconic Appian Way.

Tour Overview

The Catacombs and Appian Way Tour is a highly-rated sightseeing experience in Rome, Italy, earning 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 10 reviews.

It’s a few hours of exploring iconic sites like the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, home to several popes’ tombs, the Circus of Maxentius, and the Claudian Aqueduct.

The tour also includes a visit to the rarely-included Tomb of Cecilia Metella.

Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and insightful commentary, though some note audio issues and large group sizes, especially in the catacombs.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, headsets, and gratuities, with a maximum group size of 25.

It’s not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, though it’s not recommended for the claustrophobic.

Highlights of the Tour

A few of the highlights of the Catacombs and Appian Way Tour include the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, which contain the tombs of several popes.

Visitors will also see the Circus of Maxentius, an ancient Roman circus used for chariot racing.

Another highlight is the Claudian Aqueduct, one of the four great aqueducts of Rome.

Plus, the tour includes a visit to the rarely included Tomb of Cecilia Metella, an impressive funerary monument from the Roman era.

Throughout the tour, travelers will learn about the history and significance of these remarkable sites while walking along the iconic Appian Way.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Travelers joining the Catacombs and Appian Way Tour should arrive 25 minutes before the scheduled departure time at the meeting point on Via Cavour, 224 in central Rome.

Look for staff in front of the bus stop who’ll be assisting with the tour. The tour begins at 9:45 am and ends back at the same meeting point.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, though it’s not recommended for claustrophobic individuals.

Passengers will be provided with headsets to ensure they can clearly hear the licensed guide’s commentary throughout the tour.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour package includes round-trip transportation from central Rome, departing from Via Cavour. A licensed guide leads the group, and headsets are provided for better audio. Gratuities are included in the tour price.

The group size is capped at 25 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. The tour starts at 9:45 am, and participants are advised to arrive 25 minutes early to locate the staff at the bus stop.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for claustrophobic individuals. Travelers should also note that photography is prohibited inside the catacombs.

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Overwhelmingly, reviewers praised the tour’s knowledgeable guides and the fascinating historical sites visited, particularly the Appian Way and the aqueducts.

However, opinions on the group size were mixed, with some finding the catacombs group too large.

While many appreciated the tour’s organization, others noted audio issues when traveling in separate vehicles.

Photos and videos are prohibited in the catacombs, a policy that some travelers felt should have been more clearly communicated.

Despite these minor issues, the majority of reviewers enjoyed the overall experience, highlighting the opportunity to walk where the apostle Paul walked and the beauty of the aqueduct area.

Accessibility and Considerations

According to the information provided, this tour may not be suitable for all travelers. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.

Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for individuals who are claustrophobic, as the catacombs may be a source of discomfort for them. Travelers are advised to arrive 25 minutes before the scheduled start time, and to look for staff in front of the bus stop.

The tour ends back at the meeting point, and it’s important to note that photography and videography are forbidden in the catacombs. Participants should consider these accessibility and logistical factors when deciding whether this tour is the right fit for their needs and preferences.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour. This flexible policy allows travelers to plan with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change.

The tour provider is known to address any previous cancellations responsibly, providing refunds where applicable. This commitment to customer satisfaction is appreciated by past participants, who’ve noted the host’s willingness to resolve any issues that may arise.

Notable Experiences

While the Catacombs and Appian Way Tour offers a range of fascinating historical sights, some notable experiences stand out for past participants.

Many travelers appreciated walking along the ancient Appian Way, one of the oldest and most important Roman roads.

The beauty of the Claudian Aqueduct area also captivated visitors, who enjoyed exploring the impressive engineering feat.

Some guests felt they didn’t spend enough time at the Tomb of Cecilia Metella, which was included as a highlight but seemed rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the overview, bringing your own food and drinks on the tour is not mentioned. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any policies regarding outside food and beverages.

Is There a Dress Code for the Catacombs and Appian Way?

There’s no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy shoes. Avoid revealing or too informal attire as the sites visited are sacred and historical. Dress respectfully for the best experience.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves extensive walking and navigating uneven terrain. Visitors should expect to cover several miles on foot over the course of the tour. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for this activity.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children are welcome, but it’s not recommended for young kids due to the extensive walking and some claustrophobic environments like the catacombs.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Tomb of Cecilia Metella?

According to the tour details, visitors can’t extend their stay at the Tomb of Cecilia Metella beyond the scheduled time. The tour has a fixed itinerary, and participants must adhere to the timeline to complete the full experience.

The Sum Up

The Catacombs and Appian Way Tour offers an immersive exploration of Rome’s ancient history. Guided by experts, participants discover underground catacombs, the Appian Way, and iconic landmarks, gaining insights into the city’s rich past. With round-trip transportation and a small group size, the tour provides an intimate and educational experience, though photography is prohibited inside the catacombs. Overall, it’s an enriching opportunity to explore the captivating legacy of Rome.