Can you visit the Catacombs of Callixtus without a guide?

No, visits to the Catacombs of Callixtus are only allowed through guided tours.

Are there any age restrictions for visitors, or is it suitable for children?

There is generally no age restriction for visiting. However, the underground passages may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues due to their narrow and dimly lit nature. Children up to 6 years old can enter for free.

What should visitors with claustrophobia or mobility issues consider before visiting?

People with claustrophobia may find the long, dark, and narrow tunnels uncomfortable. Those with mobility issues should be aware that the site involves steep steps and uneven surfaces, making it challenging to navigate.

Which other catacombs or nearby sites can be visited in combination with the Catacombs of Callixtus?

Nearby sites include the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and the Catacombs of Priscilla. The Church of Domine Quo Vadis is also close by and can be visited in combination.

Are the catacombs accessible during religious holidays or special events?

The catacombs are closed on specific holidays, including New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, and Christmas Day. Always check ahead for special events.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far ahead should I plan?

It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Planning 2-3 weeks ahead is advisable to ensure availability.

Can you bring food or drinks inside the catacombs or along the Appian Way?

Food and drinks are not allowed inside the catacombs. However, you can enjoy them along the Appian Way outside of the site.

What should I bring for my visit to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket as it can be cool underground. Since photography is not allowed, focus on enjoying the experience rather than capturing it.

Explore the St. Callixtus Catacombs Beneath Rome

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Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Christina

United States

Jan 2026

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#I've been to the Vatican Museums before, and both times have really been a great experience. The first time I had a 4:30pm booking on a weekday and the crowds were very little. There was still a line outside the museums we had to wait in, and another line inside to scan our passes. This time we booked with Headout for 8:30am on a tuesday morning. It felt much easier as we were escorted as a group through the lines by simply scanning our tickets. It was also not too crowded during that time! We personally wanted to have an entire morning and Headout had tickets left (The Vatican website did not) for those times. It was nice because we were not rushing at all. Definitely avoid the lunch hours to beat the crowds! Also they have a cafe/food area--lifesaver!

Jordi

Japan

Jan 2026

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+2 more

Here's a professional reviewer. This is my third visit to the Vatican, and I'm really delighted. There were hardly any lines, the staff was super friendly, and everything was much better organized than I remembered. If I could add anything, it would be a couple more signs to guide people when leaving the museum, which would be great. Also, the prices weren't too bad in the cafeteria. I highly recommend a visit, but I did go during the off-season.

Darinda

United States

Jan 2026

‌

Our tour guide was FABULOUS! Isabella Was 12* on a scale of 10 star! She really cares to educate! she deserves a raise😁 Your company cut through Hours of the line to take us straight in to the museum-no waiting in line!!!

Susan

United Kingdom

Jan 2026

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The overall experience was so informative, emotional & a must do on anyone's trip to Rome. The art work was amazing, the museum was exciting, The Sistine Chapel was out of this word as was St Peter's Bassilica

Fucci

Jan 2026

‌

It was a good experience, it was easy to make reservations, and the convenient queue skipping saves you long waits to get in to visit the desired places...

Arianna

Dec 2025

‌

+2 more

The museum is interesting where it explains who the Capuchin friars were, what they were dedicated to, with descriptions of the most important friars in history. The crypts on the other hand are the real highlight, beautiful mosaics of bones with the smallest pieces of ns body covering all the ceiling arches, chosen with real accuracy. The crypts on the other hand fascinating and scenic also studied in great detail especially in the central parts each with a different theme. I personally had a good time and did not feel the weight of lost souls, probably each of them found peace.

Carmen

Costa Rica

Dec 2025

‌

It was excellent especially the girl from the office that validates the tours who ran with me to get on time to the bus that makes the tour of the Vatican gardens, because I arrived late because there was a lot of traffic in Rome and also the rain. I am happy and grateful.

Michelle

Switzerland

Nov 2025

‌

Making a tegalo to mom 80 years old ,November all ok,the day fantastic together the tours both in bus and museums. Muchas gracias Thank you very much Merci beaucoup

Things to know before booking Catacombs of Callixtus tickets and tours

Entry to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus is only allowed through guided tours led by licensed professionals. These tours include skip-the-line entry and provide fascinating insights into the site’s history and significance.
Learn from an expert about early Christian burial practices, the resting places of popes and martyrs, and the symbolism behind intricate frescoes and inscriptions. This added context makes your visit far more enriching than wandering through on your own.
The catacombs are a popular attraction, especially in summer and during religious holidays. Booking at least three weeks ahead is recommended, as last-minute spots are limited.
The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are about 20–30 minutes from central Rome. You can take bus routes 218 or 118 or even enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Appian Way. However, if you prefer a stress-free experience, consider a tour with round-trip transfers included.
You can opt for a standalone guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus or combine your visit with nearby sites like St. Sebastian or Domitilla. Combo tours often include convenient transfers and a streamlined itinerary for a hassle-free experience.
The catacombs are not wheelchair accessible and are not recommended for visitors with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues. Expect to navigate 50 uneven steps, with no seating areas or elevators available.
Group sizes vary—larger groups may be more budget-friendly, but smaller groups (around 20 people) offer a more intimate and immersive experience.
The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are closed on Wednesdays, but the nearby Catacombs of St. Sebastian remains open, providing a great alternative.

Your Catacombs of Callixtus tours options explained

	Guided tours	Tours with transfers	Combo tours
Catacombs of Callixtus access	✔️	✔️	✔️
Transfers	❌	✔️	✔️
Additional stops	-	-	Capuchin Crypt, San Nicola Basilica
Starting from
Recommended tickets

Catacombs of Callixtus | Quick facts

Historical significance: One of the oldest and largest Christian burial sites in Rome, often called “the little Vatican” due to the many popes buried there.
Time period: Established in the 2nd century AD and named after Pope Callixtus I.
Art and architecture: Early Christian frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Symbolic engravings of fish, doves, and anchors, representing faith and salvation.
Current use: Popular site for pilgrimage and historical tourism.
Accessibility: No
Key features: Burial site of 16 popes and many martyrs; Crypt of St. Cecilia, patron saint of music, known for her evocative statue; Extensive network of underground corridors with loculi (niches for bodies) and cubicles (family tombs).

Where are the Catacombs of Callixtus located?

Address: Via Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Roma RM, Italy

The Catacombs of Saint Callixtus are located on the right of Appian Way and after the Church of Domine Quo Vadis. The Porta San Sebastiano (San Sebastiano Gate) is a recognizable landmark near the entrance to the catacombs, which can help guide your way.

By bus: Take bus line 218. It departs from San Giovanni (Metro Line A), travels along the Appian Way and stops at Fosse Ardeatine, which is near the catacombs. From this stop, you can walk to the entrance.
By metro: You can take the metro to Circo Massimo, then walk approximately 20-30 minutes along Viale delle Terme di Caracalla towards the catacombs.

Navigating the Roman Catacombs

Brief history of the Catacombs of Callixtus

1st Century: Christians in Rome did not have dedicated cemeteries and used public necropolises, such as those on Vatican Hill (where St. Peter was buried) and along the Via Ostiense (where St. Paul was buried).
2nd Century (early): Christians began burying their dead underground, often expanding family tombs for community use. The Catacombs of Callixtus became one of the first communal Christian burial sites, organized and managed by the Church.
313 AD: The Edict of Milan legalized Christianity, allowing Christians to freely worship and own land. The catacombs continued to be used as cemeteries until the 5th century when burials moved above ground to basilicas.
8th-9th Century: After barbarian invasions, popes ordered the relics of martyrs and saints to be moved to city churches for protection, leading to the abandonment of most catacombs, including Callixtus.
Late Middle Ages: The entrances to many catacombs became obstructed and forgotten due to landslides and overgrowth.
16th Century: Antonio Bosio rediscovered the catacombs and began their exploration, earning him the title "Columbus of subterranean Rome."
19th Century: Giovanni Battista de Rossi conducted systematic studies of the catacombs, including St. Callixtus, becoming the father of Christian archaeology.
1930: The Holy See entrusted the care of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus to religious orders for preservation and maintenance.

History of the Roman Catacombs

Visitor tips

Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. The catacombs can be chilly and have uneven surfaces, so sturdy footwear is essential for navigating the narrow passageways.
The lighting is dim, so be mentally prepared for a somewhat eerie atmosphere. This adds to the experience but may be unsettling for some visitors.
Take advantage of the knowledgeable guides. Ask questions during the tour to deepen your understanding of the history and significance of what you’re seeing.
Maintain a respectful demeanor while inside, as this is a sacred space. Speaking softly enhances the contemplative atmosphere and respects other visitors’ experiences.
Remember that photography is not permitted inside the catacombs to preserve their sanctity. Focus on absorbing the experience rather than trying to capture it on camera.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions along the Appian Way, such as the Quo Vadis Church or ancient Roman tombs, to enrich your historical exploration.

Plan your Roman Catacombs visit

Step beneath Rome to uncover the final resting place of early popes and martyrs.

Everything you get: Descend into history with your expert guide as you explore the labyrinthine Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Domitilla on Wednesdays). Hear stories of secret worship, persecution, and faith carved into the rock nearly 2,000 years ago. With skip-the-line access and live commentary in multiple languages, this immersive guided tour reveals the hidden heart of ancient Christian Rome.
Why choose: Did you know nine popes were buried beneath Rome? Discover their resting place in St. Callixtus—the Little Vatican—and let your guide unravel how faith once flourished in secret.

Inclusions #

Entry to Catacombs of Callixtus
Expert English-, Spanish-, German-, Italian-, or French-speaking guide

Exclusions #

Round-trip transfers
Meals and beverages

What to bring

A light jacket or wrap will come in handy — temperatures underground stay cool and slightly damp, even during Rome’s hottest months.

What’s not allowed

Please avoid bringing food or drinks into the Catacombs — it’s a sacred and preserved archaeological site.
Photography and videography are forbidden

Accessibility

The Catacombs feature narrow passages and steps, so the experience isn’t recommended for visitors with limited mobility or wheelchair users.

Additional Information

Depending on the day, you’ll explore either the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (closed Wednesdays) or Domitilla (open Wednesdays only).
Aim to arrive a few minutes early for a smooth check-in and timely departure.

#

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Important update: Catacombs of St. Callixtus closure

The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are closed for annual maintenance until February 11, 2026. During this period, tours will visit the Catacombs of Domitilla instead, with the same guided experience included.

Travel in comfort to explore Rome’s oldest and most sacred Christian catacomb.

Everything you get: Enjoy a scenic open-bus ride before heading underground. Follow your guide into the centuries-old Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Domitilla on Wednesdays), where popes, martyrs, and early Christians found their resting place. If you've booked a Wednesday slot, your tour will be redirected to the Catacombs of Domitilla.
Why choose: Skip the tricky public transport to Rome’s outskirts and enjoy a seamless round-trip to the Catacombs. These catacombs occupy the unique distinction of being dubbed 'The Little Vatican', since they've preserved the tombs of nine early popes.

Inclusions #

Entry to St. Callixtus Catacombs
Expert guide who can speak English, Italian, Spanish, German, or French (as per option selected)
Round-trip transfers from central Rome

Exclusions #

Hotel transfers
Meals and beverages

What to bring

Carry a light jacket or shawl — the Catacombs are cool and damp even in summer.

What’s not allowed

Food and drinks
Photography and videography

Accessibility

Due to uneven terrain and stairs, this experience is not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with mobility difficulties.

Additional information

The visit includes St. Callixtus Catacombs (except Wednesdays) or Domitilla Catacombs (on Wednesdays).
Allow extra time before and after your slot for check-in and transfers.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Step beneath Rome to uncover the final resting place of early popes and martyrs.

Everything you get: Descend into history with your expert guide as you explore the labyrinthine Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Domitilla on Wednesdays). Hear stories of secret worship, persecution, and faith carved into the rock nearly 2,000 years ago. With skip-the-line access and live commentary in multiple languages, this immersive guided tour reveals the hidden heart of ancient Christian Rome.
Why choose: Did you know nine popes were buried beneath Rome? Discover their resting place in St. Callixtus—the Little Vatican—and let your guide unravel how faith once flourished in secret.

Inclusions #

Entry to Catacombs of Callixtus
Expert English-, Spanish-, German-, Italian-, or French-speaking guide

Exclusions #

Round-trip transfers
Meals and beverages

What to bring

A light jacket or wrap will come in handy — temperatures underground stay cool and slightly damp, even during Rome’s hottest months.

What’s not allowed

Please avoid bringing food or drinks into the Catacombs — it’s a sacred and preserved archaeological site.
Photography and videography are forbidden

Accessibility

The Catacombs feature narrow passages and steps, so the experience isn’t recommended for visitors with limited mobility or wheelchair users.

Additional Information

Depending on the day, you’ll explore either the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (closed Wednesdays) or Domitilla (open Wednesdays only).
Aim to arrive a few minutes early for a smooth check-in and timely departure.

#

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Travel in comfort to explore Rome’s oldest and most sacred Christian catacomb.

Everything you get: Enjoy a scenic open-bus ride before heading underground. Follow your guide into the centuries-old Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Domitilla on Wednesdays), where popes, martyrs, and early Christians found their resting place. If you've booked a Wednesday slot, your tour will be redirected to the Catacombs of Domitilla.
Why choose: Skip the tricky public transport to Rome’s outskirts and enjoy a seamless round-trip to the Catacombs. These catacombs occupy the unique distinction of being dubbed 'The Little Vatican', since they've preserved the tombs of nine early popes.

Inclusions #

Entry to St. Callixtus Catacombs
Expert guide who can speak English, Italian, Spanish, German, or French (as per option selected)
Round-trip transfers from central Rome

Exclusions #

Hotel transfers
Meals and beverages

What to bring

Carry a light jacket or shawl — the Catacombs are cool and damp even in summer.

What’s not allowed

Food and drinks
Photography and videography

Accessibility

Due to uneven terrain and stairs, this experience is not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with mobility difficulties.

Additional information

The visit includes St. Callixtus Catacombs (except Wednesdays) or Domitilla Catacombs (on Wednesdays).
Allow extra time before and after your slot for check-in and transfers.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Guided Tours

Catacombs of St. Callixtus Guided Tour

Step beneath Rome to uncover the final resting place of early popes and martyrs.

Everything you get: Descend into history with your expert guide as you explore the labyrinthine Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Domitilla on Wednesdays). Hear stories of secret worship, persecution, and faith carved into the rock nearly 2,000 years ago. With skip-the-line access and live commentary in multiple languages, this immersive guided tour reveals the hidden heart of ancient Christian Rome.
Why choose: Did you know nine popes were buried beneath Rome? Discover their resting place in St. Callixtus—the Little Vatican—and let your guide unravel how faith once flourished in secret.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

45 min.

Guided Tours

St. Callixtus & Other Catacombs Tour with Transfers

Travel in comfort to explore Rome’s oldest and most sacred Christian catacomb.

Everything you get: Enjoy a scenic open-bus ride before heading underground. Follow your guide into the centuries-old Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Domitilla on Wednesdays), where popes, martyrs, and early Christians found their resting place. If you've booked a Wednesday slot, your tour will be redirected to the Catacombs of Domitilla.
Why choose: Skip the tricky public transport to Rome’s outskirts and enjoy a seamless round-trip to the Catacombs. These catacombs occupy the unique distinction of being dubbed 'The Little Vatican', since they've preserved the tombs of nine early popes.

‌

Check availability

Book now, pay later

2 hr.

Transfers available

Journey into the Depths of Rome | Discover the Rich History of St. Callixtus Catacombs

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Your Catacombs of Callixtus tours options explained

Catacombs of Callixtus | Quick facts

What are Catacombs of St. Callixtus opening hours?

Best time to visitCatacombs of Callixtus

Where are the Catacombs of Callixtus located?

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Visitor tips

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Catacombs of St. Callixtus Guided Tour

St. Callixtus & Other Catacombs Tour with Transfers