English
English
- Roman Catacombs
- Catacombs of Domitilla
- Catacombs of Callixtus
- Capuchin Crypt
- Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
- Catacombs of Saint Agnes
- Catacombs of Commodilla
- Catacombs of Priscilla
- History
- Appian Way
- Christian Catacombs
- Jewish Catacombs
- Colosseum
- Vatican Museums
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Rome Pantheon
- Castel Sant Angelo
- Musei Capitolini
- Borghese Gallery
- Altare della Patria
- Doria Pamphilj Gallery
- Rome To Amalfi Coast Tours
- Rome To Tuscany Tours
- Bioparco Rome
- Big Bus Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tours
- Palazzo Barberini
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum
- Trevi Fountain Tours
Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere Tours
Escape the city heat underground—ride a shuttle to Rome’s oldest catacombs and explore with a multilingual guide.
- Everything you get : Meet your group in central Rome and board an AC coach, skipping metro changes and confusing transfers. Head straight to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Domitilla on Wednesdays), skip the queues and tour burial chambers, popes’ crypts and 3rd-century frescoes with a local expert. Tours run in 5 languages and are capped at 25 guests, so it’s easier to hear, ask questions, and stay immersed.
- Why choose this: This stress-free tour has a designated itinerary covering the most important Roman catacombs, complete with seamless coach transfers and expert storytelling. It's perfect for exploring these ancient sites without the hassle of planning or decision-making.
- Upgrades : Add entry to the bone-lined Capuchin Crypt and the San Nicola Basilica for a fuller dive into Rome’s early-Christian underground.
Escape the city heat underground—ride a shuttle to Rome’s oldest catacombs and explore with a multilingual guide.
- Everything you get : Meet your group in central Rome and board an AC coach, skipping metro changes and confusing transfers. Head straight to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (or Domitilla on Wednesdays), skip the queues and tour burial chambers, popes’ crypts and 3rd-century frescoes with a local expert. Tours run in 5 languages and are capped at 25 guests, so it’s easier to hear, ask questions, and stay immersed.
- Why choose this: This stress-free tour has a designated itinerary covering the most important Roman catacombs, complete with seamless coach transfers and expert storytelling. It's perfect for exploring these ancient sites without the hassle of planning or decision-making.
- Upgrades : Add entry to the bone-lined Capuchin Crypt and the San Nicola Basilica for a fuller dive into Rome’s early-Christian underground.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Callixtus Catacombs with skip-the-line entry
- Expert English, Italian, German, or Spanish-speaking guide
- Round-trip transfers to the Catacombs
- Capuchin Crypt access and transfers (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Food & beverages
- Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and bus boarding.
- You’ll visit St. Callixtus or Domitilla based on the day. Callixtus is closed Wednesdays, while Domitilla closed Tuesdays.
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered inside religious sites.
- This tour includes stairs and uneven paths; not suitable for wheelchairs or visitors with mobility issues.
- Photography and videography are prohibited inside the catacombs.
- The catacombs stay around 15°C—bring a light jacket.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.3
1,629 ratings
1.0K
411
58
20
131
Guests from Spain, United States, France and over 18 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Céline
Jun 2025Verified booking
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
Julia
May 2025Verified booking
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
Vicente
Apr 2025Verified booking
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
JOS
Apr 2025Verified booking
the clear explanations; the friendly atmosphere;.the good organization; everything on time.
View original review in French
Marta
Jun 2025Verified booking
Jacqueline
May 2025Verified booking
Maria
May 2025Verified booking
Larrey
Mar 2025Verified booking
Rose
May 2025Verified booking
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.
Rhonda
May 2025Verified booking
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
Ana
Feb 2025Verified booking
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
Alexandra
Feb 2025Verified booking
The guide at the catacombs was excellent but the driver to the catacombs was amateur keep driving us around the same places
Artur
Dec 2024Verified booking
Good information, impressive architecture
View original review in German
Andreas
Feb 2025Verified booking
Dalia
Feb 2025Verified booking
Lestourneaud
Feb 2025Verified booking
Ioana
Jan 2025Verified booking
Maria
Jan 2025Verified booking
Katharina
Dec 2024Verified booking
Caleb
Mar 2025Verified booking
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
alexis
Feb 2025Verified booking
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
Joanne
Jan 2025Verified booking
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
Julian
Jan 2025Verified booking
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
Nadine
Jan 2025Verified booking
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
Christina
Mar 2025Verified booking
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.
- Everything you get: Meet your host and group at Piazza Barberini, and board an AC coach to begin your underground adventure. Start at the Capuchin Crypt beneath Santa Maria della Concezione, featuring six haunting chapels adorned with the bones of over 4,000 friars. Explore at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide. Then, continue to one of Rome’s major catacombs (St. Callixtus, Domitilla, or St. Sebastian), where a licensed guide leads you through ancient tunnels and burial chambers. Commentary is available in five languages and groups are capped at 20–25 people.
- Why choose this: Most tours make you choose between the crypt or the catacombs—this one gives you both. You get expert guidance, round-trip transport, and zero logistics to figure out. Perfect for those wanting Rome’s full underground story in just one afternoon.
- Upgrades: Add a stop at the Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere, a hidden gem layered over ancient temples. Choose the Vox City Guide app to keep exploring Rome at your pace—stories unlock automatically at 80+ landmarks as you walk.
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.
- Everything you get: Meet your host and group at Piazza Barberini, and board an AC coach to begin your underground adventure. Start at the Capuchin Crypt beneath Santa Maria della Concezione, featuring six haunting chapels adorned with the bones of over 4,000 friars. Explore at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide. Then, continue to one of Rome’s major catacombs (St. Callixtus, Domitilla, or St. Sebastian), where a licensed guide leads you through ancient tunnels and burial chambers. Commentary is available in five languages and groups are capped at 20–25 people.
- Why choose this: Most tours make you choose between the crypt or the catacombs—this one gives you both. You get expert guidance, round-trip transport, and zero logistics to figure out. Perfect for those wanting Rome’s full underground story in just one afternoon.
- Upgrades: Add a stop at the Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere, a hidden gem layered over ancient temples. Choose the Vox City Guide app to keep exploring Rome at your pace—stories unlock automatically at 80+ landmarks as you walk.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Callixtus Catacombs, Capuchin Crypt with skip-the-line entry
- Expert English, Italian, German, or Spanish-speaking guide
- Round-trip transfers to the Catacombs
- City guide app for Rome (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Food & beverages
- Arrive 15 mins early for check-in and coach boarding.
- This tour is not wheelchair-accessible due to uneven paths and stairs.
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered in religious sites.
- Photography is not allowed inside the crypt or catacombs.
- The catacombs stay around 15°C year-round. Bring a light jacket.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.3
1,059 ratings
639
278
47
21
74
Guests from United States, United Kingdom, Australia and over 20 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Jorge
May 2025Verified booking
Thats was perfect, to see the wonders of the world
Michael
Apr 2025Verified booking
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!
solayi
Jun 2025Verified booking
Interesting a different route
View original review in Spanish
Keith
May 2025Verified booking
Everything was easy and as planned. Guide was very knowledgeable and was great.
Ahmed
May 2025Verified booking
It was a fantastic experience. Emilione was awesome. He went above and beyond.
Ian
May 2025Verified booking
Great guides and transport. Saw a different side of Rome
Declan
Jun 2025Verified booking
Jamie
May 2025Verified booking
William
Apr 2025Verified booking
Rhonda
Apr 2025Verified booking
Marek
May 2025Verified booking
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.
matei
Apr 2025Verified booking
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
Lynette
May 2025Verified booking
We couldn't find guide at designated meeting point. Signage was not clear. So we missed out on your. Very disappointed
Edythe
Apr 2025Verified booking
This tour didn't exist. I've written two emails about it and am expecting a refund.
Kirsten
Mar 2025Verified booking
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
ceri
Feb 2025Verified booking
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.
Alice
Mar 2025Verified booking
Jozef
Mar 2025Verified booking
Medea
Feb 2025Verified booking
William
Dec 2024Verified booking
Julie
Dec 2024Verified booking
Katerina
Jan 2025Verified booking
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
Christopher
Oct 2024Verified booking
Really great experiences. Alain was extremely knowledgeable and gave excellent information about each of the sites.
Michael
Dec 2024Verified booking
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.
Beth
Nov 2024Verified booking
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!
Make the most of Rome
San Nicola Basilica | Quick facts
- Historical significance: Built over the ruins of three Roman temples (3rd–2nd centuries BCE) near the Forum Olitorium, it reflects a rich history tied to ancient Rome and a tradition of a medieval prison on the site.
- Art and architecture: Features a three-nave layout with 14 columns from ancient temples, rebuilt in the 16th century by Giacomo Della Porta and restored in the 19th century. Inside are notable works by Guercino and Antonio Romano.
- Current use: Serves as a minor basilica and local place of worship, particularly for communities from Puglia and Lucania, while drawing visitors interested in its history and architecture.
- Accessibility: Lacks wheelchair accessibility, posing challenges for visitors with mobility issues.
- Key features: Highlights include the incorporation of ancient temple remains, Renaissance frescoes, a unique façade blending medieval and Renaissance elements, and an underground area showcasing Rome's layered history.
Why visit San Nicola in Carcere?
Layered history, literally
Going back centuries, you see structures from the Roman era to the Renaissance, from remnants of ancient temples to revamped façades.
Architectural details
The blend of architectural styles and the ancient columns tell a captivating story, while the crypt beneath reveals ancient Roman structures and artifacts.
Fascinating underground
While the Basilica is tiny, the treasures beneath are worth a visit. Combining a guided tour with other catacombs and crypts gives you a different perspective of Rome’s complex underground!
Spiritual reflection
With numerous little side chapels and divine artwork, this peaceful Basilica offers a respite from the usual throng inside Rome’s churches.
What to see at San Nicola in Carcere?
See all photos
Plan your visit to San Nicola in Carcere
Timings
Location
Tips
- Daily: 10am to 5pm
- Mass: Weekdays at 7:30am, 8am, and 6pm; Sundays and Solemnities at 12pm.
Best time to visit
Early morning or mid-afternoon are ideal for a quieter experience, as the basilica tends to be less crowded during these times.
Complete schedule of Roman CatacombsAddress: Via del Teatro di Marcello, 46, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Getting there:
- By metro: The closest metro stations are Colosseo and Circo Massimo. From these stations, you can take bus #160 to reach the basilica.
- By bus: You can also take buses 23 or 870 from Piazza delle Rovere (at the bottom of the Gianicolo hill) to the stop near Tiber Island. Cross the bridge at Tiber Island and continue south along the opposite side of the Tiber for one block. Cross the Lungotevere and take Via del Foro Olitorio to the church, which is on the left
- The basilica is built over three ancient Roman temples. Spot the original columns from temples dedicated to Juno, Janus, and Spes, still visible in the church’s walls and facade.
- Don’t miss the underground chambers, where you can see remnants of the ancient temples. The stairs near the presbytery lead to this hidden archaeological site.
- If you’re visiting independently, set aside at least one hour to explore the entire basilica and its underground.
- Join a guided tour for deeper historical insights and ensures you don’t miss hidden details like inscriptions from the old Roman marketplace beneath the church.
- Located near the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere, the basilica is a great starting point for exploring Rome’s historic districts. Grab a bite at a local trattoria after your visit!
Frequently asked questions about San Nicola in Carcere
Is photography allowed at San Nicola in Carcere?
Yes, photography is allowed. The lavish detailing of the interiors make for splendid shots!
Are there any dress code requirements?
Since this is a place of worship, everyone must wear clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
Is San Nicola in Carcere wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, San Nicola in Carcere does not have a wheelchair-accessible entrance.
What is the best time to visit San Nicola in Carcere?
Since this is a relatively unknown treasure, it doesn’t get very crowded. However, early morning or mid-afternoon is best for a quieter visit.
Can I take a guided tour of San Nicola in Carcere?
A guided tour is a great way to gain context on this enigmatic landmark. The best part? You can even combine your tour with the Capuchin Crypt and one of the Christian Catacombs on the Appian Way!
How to reach San Nicola in Carcere?
The basilica is right in the center of the city, less than a kilometer away from the Roman Forum. The nearest metro stop is Colosseo.
More reads
From happy customers
Jose
United KingdomApr, 2025
+ 2 more
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
Capuchin Crypt Tickets with Audio Guide
Megan
United StatesApr, 2025
Great experience! We enjoyed learning the culture and history and the tour was wonderful. We learned so much and were happy it wasn't cancelled due to the Pope's passing.
Papal Basilicas, St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs Tour with Transfers
Maria
SpainSep, 2024
It was a fantastic experience. The guide was a great professional and knowledgeable about the history of Rome. Both the catacombs and the major basilicas are a must see for anyone traveling to the Italian capital. A tour of 10
View original review in Spanish
Papal Basilicas, St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs Tour with Transfers
Kirsten
United KingdomMar, 2025
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
Capuchin Crypt, Christian Catacombs & San Martino ai Monti Tour with Transfers
Ceri
United KingdomFeb, 2025
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.
Capuchin Crypt, Christian Catacombs & San Martino ai Monti Tour with Transfers
William
Mar, 2018
The stories about the several levels and how they were discovered, how the lower levels were used, and who walked on the same paths is really gripping. It excites you even more to know more
Catacombs of Domitilla, Appian Way and Capuchin Crypts Tour
Jamie
Apr, 2018
I had my doubts whether they had the chepaest tickets or not, but they actualy do! bEst price across the internet for all experiences.
Catacombs of Domitilla, Appian Way and Capuchin Crypts Tour
Margareth
Aug, 2018
This was such an informative and eye opening tour. We went on a very hot day in Rome and were grateful when we descended into the cool Catacombs, our guide an English girl was very funny and informative she was a wealth of information it really does open your mind of how they lived then and the history behind it all, well worth the money.
Catacombs of Rome Exclusive After Hours and Bone Chapel (Capuchin Crypts) Tour