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Descend the official cemetery of early popes with a local guide in your chosen language.
Everything you get: Make your way to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, just off the Appian Way, and join your guide for a 40-minute tour through ancient burial chambers and fresco-lined corridors. Your skip-the-line ticket includes access to the “Popes’ Crypt” and other key chapels. Tours run in five languages and are kept small for clarity and ease.
Why choose this: This is the most straightforward way to explore Rome’s largest and most historically significant catacombs—perfect if you’ve planned a day around the Appian Way or prefer to arrive on your own.
Upgrades: You can add round-trip transfers from central Rome if you'd rather not navigate public transport.
Descend the official cemetery of early popes with a local guide in your chosen language.
Everything you get: Make your way to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, just off the Appian Way, and join your guide for a 40-minute tour through ancient burial chambers and fresco-lined corridors. Your skip-the-line ticket includes access to the “Popes’ Crypt” and other key chapels. Tours run in five languages and are kept small for clarity and ease.
Why choose this: This is the most straightforward way to explore Rome’s largest and most historically significant catacombs—perfect if you’ve planned a day around the Appian Way or prefer to arrive on your own.
Upgrades: You can add round-trip transfers from central Rome if you'd rather not navigate public transport.
Inclusions
Exclusions
What a shame to make us walk 1 quarter of an hour to catch the bus. To be improved. No explanations either when getting on or off the bus. We were given a ticket and left at the entrance to the site... Fortunately, the French guide Geoffrey was extraordinary...
View original review in French
This tour was much more interesting than expected. Tour guide was very knowledgeable. On the down side, when reading the info about this tour it says backpacks are not allowed and no shorts and bare shoulders. We were one of the few who followed these rules. Should be removed from info page since it's not enforced
A very nice place and recommended to know, the people who guided (father Marcelo) was willing to answer all kinds of questions. Personally I was very satisfied with the experience.
View original review in Spanish
Spanish speaking guide, Mr. Luis, gives excellent explanations. At the same time it is impressive to walk through them. Thank you.
View original review in Spanish
The tour in German was good and the transfer also went smoothly. However, we had booked a different catacomb tour. After our complaint, we were told that this could no longer be changed. I didn't even receive a reply to my email afterwards. What a shame!
View original review in German
Thought we would see more than what we experienced itwas interesting but I think I would choose a different catacomb if I knew there were only empty graves at this one... informative guide who was very passionate
We had a super friendly tour guide who provided us with lots of interesting information. Of course, the catacombs were also very impressive.
View original review in German
It went smoothly, you have to keep in mind that you have to print out digital tickets there before the start. We chose German language, guide was very professional. Our recommendation!
View original review in German
A fantastic experience, the guide was very involved and very knowledgeable, not only of the place, but of the context in general. And Alexandro, the driver, not to say, "explendido", also with a lot of knowledge and in addition to creating a cheerful and fun atmosphere, to the point of wanting to repeat the journey.
View original review in Spanish
The historic site and the guide was very friendly and knowledgeable about the history of the Catacombs.
View original review in Spanish
The guide was very pleasant and predisposed
View original review in Spanish
Well organized and good tour guide.
The tour guide was so interesting and thorough. I really learned a lot of new things that I didn't know about before.
Guide was very knowledgeable on the history of the catacombs.
the clear explanations; the friendly atmosphere;.the good organization; everything on time.
View original review in French
Underground cemeteries carved in volcanic rock between the 2nd and 5th centuries AD, these sacred spaces were used by early Christians and Jews to bury their dead and worship in secret. From popes’ crypts at St. Callixtus to the bone chapel of the Capuchin Crypt, each site offers something unique.
Step into bone-lined Baroque chambers, Rome’s most haunting experience, hidden beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione.
Step into bone-lined Baroque chambers, Rome’s most haunting experience, hidden beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione.
Inclusions
Exclusions
I'm not too much of a believer but it was very interesting to learn about the order and the visit to the Crypt is not to be missed.
View original review in Spanish
Thats was perfect, to see the wonders of the world
As a lover of Roman history and all things that surround this impressive city, this tour was near the center, affordable and so worth the experience. If you have an hour to spare among the many great sites, don't skip this!
Sammy, our tour guide, started the day with an engaging historical backstory that was relevant to the tour. We arrived on time, but it seemed he was wrapping up his brief as we joined the group, which caused us to miss some initial context. During the visit to the Monks Crypt, Sammy offered us the option to skip the museum and head directly to the crypt. While he assured us there would be enough time to see everything, I found myself rushing through the crypt due to a tight schedule, as I had hoped to listen to all of the audio guide but ran out of time. Additionally, Sammy moved at a brisk pace, which made it challenging for the group to stay together, especially since we were navigating multiple streets and turns. This led to some group members losing sight of him. We were left wondering about the shuttle that was supposed to be included; it turned out to be quite far away, which wasn't communicated well. It might be beneficial for future tours if the shuttle could be closer to the starting point or if the timing could be adjusted, allowing for more leisurely exploration of each site, including the audio guides. In the catacombs, the group was a bit too large to comfortably fit and fully engage with what Sammy was explaining as we moved through the tunnels. Overall, with some adjustments to pacing and communication, the tour could be even more enjoyable and informative!
It was so interesting and very inspiring.
Interesting a different route
View original review in Spanish
Everything was easy and as planned. Guide was very knowledgeable and was great.
It was a fantastic experience. Emilione was awesome. He went above and beyond.
Very fascinating and informative audio guide. Highly recommend.
A history what was telling by audio guide
Very unique experience.The crypt is spooky yet fascinating.
Great guides and transport. Saw a different side of Rome
Escape the city heat underground—ride a shuttle to Rome’s oldest catacombs and explore with a multilingual guide.
Escape the city heat underground—ride a shuttle to Rome’s oldest catacombs and explore with a multilingual guide.
Inclusions
Exclusions
What a shame to make us walk 1 quarter of an hour to catch the bus. To be improved. No explanations either when getting on or off the bus. We were given a ticket and left at the entrance to the site... Fortunately, the French guide Geoffrey was extraordinary...
View original review in French
The tour in German was good and the transfer also went smoothly. However, we had booked a different catacomb tour. After our complaint, we were told that this could no longer be changed. I didn't even receive a reply to my email afterwards. What a shame!
View original review in German
A fantastic experience, the guide was very involved and very knowledgeable, not only of the place, but of the context in general. And Alexandro, the driver, not to say, "explendido", also with a lot of knowledge and in addition to creating a cheerful and fun atmosphere, to the point of wanting to repeat the journey.
View original review in Spanish
the clear explanations; the friendly atmosphere;.the good organization; everything on time.
View original review in French
What did I love - nothing really. It was a bus ride to & from a cata comb. Headcount was basically transportation. We walked to a bus parked few blocks from meeting spot drove to catacombs and then dropped off in a much larger line with folks that paid $10 Euro entrance fee at the place. We had the same guide as folks paying a much cheaper price. Tour notes are misleading in that says guided but don't mention not a private Headcount guide.
The tour and guide were great! I was not happy knowing the ticket was 10 euros and it cost me an additional 51 euros to walk part way then get on a bus. So for the two of us we spent 102 euros for transportation. The driver was unfriendly and minimal instructions were given. When we got off the bus. We were unsure what to do or where to go before and after the tour..... not at all happy about this and will definitely not be recommending this tour
The transfer with Alex was great, he took us there and it was very pleasant, and then our guide Rosa was waiting for us and she explained it to us very well. Apart from being an interesting area, if you like the subway!
View original review in Spanish
The guide at the catacombs was excellent but the driver to the catacombs was amateur keep driving us around the same places
Good information, impressive architecture
View original review in German
We had to walk 10 minutes to the bus that would not start sat there for 5 minutes while the guy tried to turn on the car. The it was his first day he did not know where to go and had to call for help. Then when tour was done just dropped us off with no English where to go or how to get back to where we meet
Not the catacombs indicated in the ad price of the person with us 27 euro we 59euro for the same experience tour ultra fast we have not seen any skull as seen on the presentation photos
View original review in French
We did not visit this Catacombe. We weren't told that it was closed until we were on the way to another catacomb which wasn't what we booked. We weren't told by the tour company so we could make an informed choice
they did not take us to st. callixtus catacombs but rather a smaller one, the 60 euro is extremely overpriced as they simply drive you to the catacombs and buy you a 10 euro tour that lasts only 45 minutes and is extremely bad, making the bus ride 50 euro, extremely misleading do not purchase
The tour itself was good. Apart from that: Far too expensive! Bus transfer with English/Italian/French/German "gibberish". Bus ticket costs €1.50, guided tour itself max. €10...
View original review in German
Pictures advertised were not of rhe catacombs offered and taken to a different one than jooked. Scam
Visit a crypt lined with 4,000 friars’ bones and ancient catacombs where early Christians were buried on one seamless coach tour with expert narration.
Visit a crypt lined with 4,000 friars’ bones and ancient catacombs where early Christians were buried on one seamless coach tour with expert narration.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Thats was perfect, to see the wonders of the world
Sammy, our tour guide, started the day with an engaging historical backstory that was relevant to the tour. We arrived on time, but it seemed he was wrapping up his brief as we joined the group, which caused us to miss some initial context. During the visit to the Monks Crypt, Sammy offered us the option to skip the museum and head directly to the crypt. While he assured us there would be enough time to see everything, I found myself rushing through the crypt due to a tight schedule, as I had hoped to listen to all of the audio guide but ran out of time. Additionally, Sammy moved at a brisk pace, which made it challenging for the group to stay together, especially since we were navigating multiple streets and turns. This led to some group members losing sight of him. We were left wondering about the shuttle that was supposed to be included; it turned out to be quite far away, which wasn't communicated well. It might be beneficial for future tours if the shuttle could be closer to the starting point or if the timing could be adjusted, allowing for more leisurely exploration of each site, including the audio guides. In the catacombs, the group was a bit too large to comfortably fit and fully engage with what Sammy was explaining as we moved through the tunnels. Overall, with some adjustments to pacing and communication, the tour could be even more enjoyable and informative!
Interesting a different route
View original review in Spanish
Everything was easy and as planned. Guide was very knowledgeable and was great.
It was a fantastic experience. Emilione was awesome. He went above and beyond.
Great guides and transport. Saw a different side of Rome
We had problems to get to the meeting point and were not able to contact anybody via application. NObody contacted us, when we didn´t reached the meeting point, even when we paid such a huge money. As we new we were not able to reach the meeting point, and we din´t get any detailed shedule of the venue, we went directly to the closest point, the Capuchin Crypt. The staff was very kind and really tried to help us. However, even they were not able to connect with anybody from the support team, we didnť find any information about organizing company. They tried to look at lest when should our group reach the Crypt, but they didnt succed to find the company in the app and nobody responded the phone calls. Finally they agreed this all looked very suspicious. That is why we request a refund.
Tour not done,the appointment with the guide was in front of the Trilussa monument,indicated on the ticket,we arrived half an hour early,we waited more than an hour but the guide never showed up,we called the assistance,they only spoke English,they refused to speak Italian,we were told that the appointment with the guide was at another address,at the Piramide metro,that by mistake on our tickets was written wrong another address,we took a cab to get where they said the guide was waiting for us but there was no one there.. mocked, lost the day, money and patience... never again!!!.
View original review in Italian
We couldn't find guide at designated meeting point. Signage was not clear. So we missed out on your. Very disappointed
This tour didn't exist. I've written two emails about it and am expecting a refund.
Everything!! Our guide was fantastic and very knowledgeable, friendly and great at answering questions we had. Website was easy to use, and I had full contact with the team right throughout our city break and various excursions
Administration was excellent. Guide was outstanding - extremely well informed, took time to check in with us for questions, answered them all. Was a real enthusiast with well-devoted presentation and delivery skills. Was highly informative and engaging at the same time.
This was rubbish, your website and correspondence sent us to the wrong pick up location and the people we contacted lied to say that had been in touch with the local vendors and it was only because I contacted and got confirmation from the local vendor you would issue a refund. Also your website continues to advertise the tour at the wrong location
Really great experiences. Alain was extremely knowledgeable and gave excellent information about each of the sites.
We had half the time needed to listen to the audio in the Crypt. Ran through & heard a fraction of audio. The main issue that we were not aware of was you are NOT brought back to the original starting location. You are dropped off at a location that is a $25+ cab ride.
The tour guides were very informative and funny which made the experience feel more personal. The tour included plenty of features and was a highlight of our trip. Great day!
Descend into Rome’s largest catacombs with a guided tour in your preferred language
Descend into Rome’s largest catacombs with a guided tour in your preferred language
Inclusions
Exclusions
Another facet of Rome's history, very well explained by our French-speaking guide.
View original review in French
A quick tour, just enough time spent under ground in the creepy catacombs!
The tickets were not recognised nor did they have a 3pm schedule. Fortunately the man was very nice and we were able to have tickets to the 4pm. However, this is a terrible situation to sell tickets that don't exist and then we purchase more. It's already stressful enough.
The agancy called to cancel the trip and offered alternative which I could not accept. Was not able to have this trip therefore I had to cancel it
When purchased, it said we would be brought back to the starting point. We were not, wereedt at the last stop
Very interesting tour. The guide was knowledgeable. I found out stuff I didn't know and it was more detailed than a school textbook.
The Italian speaking guide, a young girl, was wonderful, engaging, professional. All very nice made even more especially fascinating by the guide in Italian.
View original review in Italian
Private drivers to get there, incredible catacombs and impressive crypt.
View original review in French
My friend and I were a bit late (about 10 minutes, but that still means 5 minutes before the scheduled tour time) and we were confused about where to meet the guide, but there was no way to contact the guide. So we didn't find the person, and then we had no guide and no tickets to see the catacombs, even without the guide. Very frustrating
Guide: Yes
Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour (varies by location).
Skip-the-line access: Yes
Why go for it?
Recommended tours:
Guide: Yes
Duration: 2 - 3.5 hours
Skip-the-Line access: Yes
Why go for it?
Recommended tours:
Guide: Yes
Duration: 3 - 3.5 hours
Skip-the-Line access: Yes
Why go for it?:
Recommended tours
Rome’s underground isn’t just a maze of tunnels—it’s a glimpse into ancient life, beliefs, and burial customs. While the Christian catacombs are the most famous, the city also has Jewish catacombs, each with their own unique identity. Let’s break it down.
By the 2nd century AD, Christianity was still an underground movement—literally. Since Roman law restricted burials within city limits and early Christians couldn’t afford elaborate mausoleums, they dug deep, creating vast underground cemeteries outside the city walls.
But these weren’t just burial sites. During times of persecution, they doubled as secret places of worship, where Christians gathered to honor their dead and practice their faith. Walk through these dimly lit tunnels today, and you’ll find:
🔹 Famous Christian Catacombs: St. Callixtus, Domitilla, Priscilla, and St. Sebastian.
Explore ancient Christian hideawaysWhile Christianity was just beginning, Rome already had a thriving Jewish community—one of the oldest in the Western world. Dating from the 2nd to 4th century AD, Rome’s six Jewish catacombs offer a different, but equally fascinating, glimpse into history.
Unlike their Christian counterparts, these catacombs are free of biblical frescoes and saintly imagery—instead, they feature:
These catacombs are far less visited, making them a true hidden gem for history buffs.
🔹 Notable Jewish Catacombs: Villa Torlonia and Vigna Randanini.
Catacombs of St. Callixtus (Via Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Roma RM)
Catacombs of Domitilla (Via delle Sette Chiese, 282, 00147 Roma RM)
Catacombs of St. Sebastian (Via Appia Antica, 136, 00179 Roma RM)
Catacombs of Priscilla (Via Salaria, 430, 00199 Roma RM)
Catacombs of Sant'Agnese (Via Nomentana, 349, 00162 Roma RM)
Detailed directions to the CatacombsHop-on Hop-off Bus Tours:
The average time taken to reach the Christian Catacombs on the Appian Way by car from central Rome is 20 to 30 mins, covering a distance of approximately 7 km (4.5 miles).
Car parking
Closed on
Best time to visit: Early mornings or late evenings.
See complete Catacombs scheduleNo, most catacombs require visitors to be accompanied by a guide to ensure proper preservation, safety, and to provide valuable information about the historical significance of the site.
Most catacombs have limited accessibility due to their underground nature and uneven terrain. It is recommended to check with the specific catacomb you plan to visit for accessibility information and available accommodations.
The Roman Catacombs are located in various areas around Rome, Italy. Some of the well-known catacombs are situated along the Appian Way, one of the oldest and most important Roman roads. The Catacombs of St. Callixtus, Domitilla, and St. Sebastian are located along or near this historic route. Other catacombs, such as the Catacombs of Priscilla and St. Agnese, are found in different parts of the city.
Photography policies may vary among catacombs. In general, flash photography is not permitted due to preservation concerns, but some sites may allow you to take non-flash photographs. It is best to check the specific rules at the catacombs you plan to visit.
Depending on the catacombs' locations and your available time, it is possible to visit multiple catacombs in one day. However, consider travel times between sites and ensure you have ample time to fully explore each catacomb. This tour involves a guided pilgrimage to two catacombs, two papal basilicas, and the Holy Steps! First visit Sancta Sanctorum and its famous staircase, followed by St. John Lateran archbasilica and St. Mary Major basilica. It doesn't end there – onward to the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian! All with a historian in your chosen language.
To respect the sacred nature of the catacombs, it is recommended to dress modestly and appropriately, with shoulders and knees covered. Some catacombs may have specific dress code requirements, so it's best to check before your visit.
The cost of Roman Catacombs tours can vary depending on the specific tour, package, or combination of attractions included. On average, ticket prices for guided tours of the catacombs range from approximately €12 to €79 per person. However, prices may fluctuate based on factors such as the duration of the tour, the inclusion of additional attractions, and any special features or services provided. It is advisable to check our curated selection of experiences for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for the specific tour or package you are interested in.
Highlights of the Roman Catacombs tour include exploring the ancient Christian burial grounds, viewing the intricate frescoes depicting biblical scenes, as well as understanding the historical significance as sacred sites, symbolism in artwork, ancient inscriptions, impressive architecture, and its connection to Rome's cultural and religious heritage.
Consider this combo tour that takes you into one of the Christian Catacombs, the San Nicola Basilica, and the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars. The Capuchin Crypt cannot be explored with a guide. You will instead be provided an audio guide along with your tickets. Tune in and learn all about its underground chapels lined with skeletal art!