From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Christina

United States

Jan 2026

‌

#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

‌

+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

‌

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

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.

Plan your visit to San Nicola in Carcere

Visitors with guide entering Capuchin Crypt in Rome's historic catacombs.

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 Catacombs

Address: 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

Frescoes on stone walls at Capuchin Crypt, Rome, depicting historical religious scenes.

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!

Plan you visit

Timeline of Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere

Ancient Rome (3rd–2nd Century BCE)

Roman Temples Built: Three temples dedicated to Juno Sospita, Janus, and Spes were constructed in the Forum Holitorium, an ancient vegetable market.
Incorporation into the Cityscape: The temples became part of Rome’s religious and commercial hub.

6th Century CE

First Church Established: A Christian church was built over the ruins of the temples, reusing their columns and foundations.

Medieval Period (11th–13th Century)

Pierleoni Family Influence: The church, known as San Nicola Petrus Leonis, was associated with the influential Pierleoni family, who also transformed the nearby Theatre of Marcellus into a fortress.
Reconsecration (1128): The church was officially reconsecrated, marking a period of religious and architectural significance.
Restoration (1280): Structural improvements were made to the church.

Renaissance & Baroque Periods (16th Century)

Major Restoration (1599): Giacomo della Porta redesigned the church’s facade, giving it its present appearance.

20th Century (1930s)

Urban Renewal: The Fascist-era city planners cleared surrounding buildings to highlight the church and the Theatre of Marcellus, revealing more of its ancient foundations.

Present day

The church remains an important historical and religious site, blending ancient Roman and medieval Christian heritage. You can explore its underground ruins, giving a rare glimpse into Rome’s layered past.

Know more abut rich history of Roman Catacombs

What's not allowed

Pets
Food and drinks

Accessibility

The museum and crypt are wheelchair and stroller-friendly

Additional information

Since it is a religious site, shoulders and knees must be covered before entering.
There are storage facilities for large bags/luggage/backpacks.
Photography for personal/non-commercial use is permitted.

Inclusions #

Entry ticket to Capuchin Crypt and Museum
Audio guide

Exclusions #

Transfers
Live guide

These tickets are valid until 31 December, 2026.

From frescoed tombs to walls of bones, journey through Rome’s buried secrets without the crowds or the commute.

Everything you get: Your adventure begins in central Rome with an expert guide leading you through centuries of Roman history. Explore sacred Christian Catacombs carved into volcanic rock and hear stories of early worshippers. Then, travel by air-conditioned coach to the Capuchin Crypt and Museum, where Caravaggio’s art and 4,000 monks’ bones adorn the walls. All entry tickets, transfers, and an audio guide for the Crypt are included.
Why choose: The catacombs and crypt together complete early Christian Rome’s story: they convey how faith and death were transformed into art beneath the city. With convenient travel connecting these sites (7km apar), you can focus on discovery than navigating logistics.

Inclusions #

Entry ticket to Capuchin Crypt and Museum
Audio guide at Capuchin Crypt
Guided tour of Roman Catacombs
Transfers from city centre to Roman Catacombs and Capuchin Crypt

Exclusions #

Transfers from Capuchin Crypt to city centre
Meals and beverages

What to bring

A light jacket — temperatures in the catacombs are cool year-round.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, as visits include religious sites.

What’s not allowed

Photography or videography inside the catacombs and crypts.
Large bags or bulky items that may obstruct narrow passageways.

Accessibility

The tour involves uneven terrain, steep stairs, and confined tunnels.
Unfortunately, it is not wheelchair-accessible and not advised for visitors with mobility issues.

Additional information

Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.
The Capuchin Crypt visit is self-guided with an audio guide.

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

What to bring

A light jacket/shawl, as it gets chilly inside the catacombs

What's not allowed

Photography and videography
Pets

Accessibility

The catacombs are unsuitable for people with limited mobility and wheelchair users.

Additional information

You get skip-the-line entry to the catacombs of St. Callixtus on all days except Wednesday. To the catacombs of Domitilla, skip-the-line entry is available only on Wednesday.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your reserved time slot.

Inclusions #

Domitilla and Callixtus Catacombs entry with skip-the-line access
Expert English, Italian, German, or French-speaking guide
Round-trip transfers to the Catacombs (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Hotel pick-up
Food and beverages

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Enjoy scenic views from an open bus en route the city’s early Christian burial grounds with a multilingual guide.

Everything you get : Board a panoramic bus from central Rome and head to the Roman Catacombs, a subterranean network of tunnels containing the remains of early Roman Christians. Head to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus or Domitilla, skip the queues and tour popes’ crypts and 3rd-century frescoes with a local expert. Tours run in 5 languages and are capped at 25 guests.
Why choose this: This stress-free tour has a designated itinerary covering the most important Roman catacombs, complete with seamless coach transfers (goodbye metro changes and confusing transfers!) With expert storytelling, it’s easier to hear, ask questions, and stay immersed.
Upgrades : Add entry to the bone-lined Capuchin Crypt for a fuller dive into Rome’s early-Christian underground.

Inclusions #

Round-trip transfers to the Roman Catacombs (Domitilla and Callixtus)
Expert English, Italian, French, German, or Spanish-speaking guide
Capuchin Crypt access with transfers (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Gratuities
Food & beverages

Trolley tour The Washington D.C. trolley tour typically follows a single comprehensive route, focusing on the National Mall, its iconic monuments and memorials, and key downtown attractions. Popular stops: Union Station, Capitol building, Smithsonian, Lincoln Memorial

What to bring

The catacombs stay around 15°C—bring a light jacket.

What's not allowed

Photography and videography

Accessibility

This tour includes stairs and uneven paths; not suitable for wheelchairs or visitors with mobility issues.

Additional information

Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and bus boarding.
You’ll visit St. Callixtus or Domitilla based on the day. Domitilla is closed Tuesdays, while Callixtus is closed Wednesdays.
On all days except Wednesdays, you can get priority-entry to the Callixtus catacombs. At Domitilla, you get skip-the-line entry only on Wednesdays.
Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered inside religious sites.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

From frescoed tombs to walls of bones, journey through Rome’s buried secrets without the crowds or the commute.

Everything you get: Your adventure begins in central Rome with an expert guide leading you through centuries of Roman history. Explore sacred Christian Catacombs carved into volcanic rock and hear stories of early worshippers. Then, travel by air-conditioned coach to the Capuchin Crypt and Museum, where Caravaggio’s art and 4,000 monks’ bones adorn the walls. All entry tickets, transfers, and an audio guide for the Crypt are included.
Why choose: The catacombs and crypt together complete early Christian Rome’s story: they convey how faith and death were transformed into art beneath the city. With convenient travel connecting these sites (7km apar), you can focus on discovery than navigating logistics.

Inclusions #

Entry ticket to Capuchin Crypt and Museum
Audio guide at Capuchin Crypt
Guided tour of Roman Catacombs
Transfers from city centre to Roman Catacombs and Capuchin Crypt

Exclusions #

Transfers from Capuchin Crypt to city centre
Meals and beverages

What to bring

A light jacket — temperatures in the catacombs are cool year-round.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, as visits include religious sites.

What’s not allowed

Photography or videography inside the catacombs and crypts.
Large bags or bulky items that may obstruct narrow passageways.

Accessibility

The tour involves uneven terrain, steep stairs, and confined tunnels.
Unfortunately, it is not wheelchair-accessible and not advised for visitors with mobility issues.

Additional information

Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.
The Capuchin Crypt visit is self-guided with an audio guide.

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

What to bring

A light jacket/shawl, as it gets chilly inside the catacombs

What's not allowed

Photography and videography
Pets

Accessibility

The catacombs are unsuitable for people with limited mobility and wheelchair users.

Additional information

You get skip-the-line entry to the catacombs of St. Callixtus on all days except Wednesday. To the catacombs of Domitilla, skip-the-line entry is available only on Wednesday.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your reserved time slot.

Inclusions #

Domitilla and Callixtus Catacombs entry with skip-the-line access
Expert English, Italian, German, or French-speaking guide
Round-trip transfers to the Catacombs (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Hotel pick-up
Food and beverages

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Enjoy scenic views from an open bus en route the city’s early Christian burial grounds with a multilingual guide.

Everything you get : Board a panoramic bus from central Rome and head to the Roman Catacombs, a subterranean network of tunnels containing the remains of early Roman Christians. Head to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus or Domitilla, skip the queues and tour popes’ crypts and 3rd-century frescoes with a local expert. Tours run in 5 languages and are capped at 25 guests.
Why choose this: This stress-free tour has a designated itinerary covering the most important Roman catacombs, complete with seamless coach transfers (goodbye metro changes and confusing transfers!) With expert storytelling, it’s easier to hear, ask questions, and stay immersed.
Upgrades : Add entry to the bone-lined Capuchin Crypt for a fuller dive into Rome’s early-Christian underground.

Inclusions #

Round-trip transfers to the Roman Catacombs (Domitilla and Callixtus)
Expert English, Italian, French, German, or Spanish-speaking guide
Capuchin Crypt access with transfers (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Gratuities
Food & beverages

What to bring

The catacombs stay around 15°C—bring a light jacket.

What's not allowed

Photography and videography

Accessibility

This tour includes stairs and uneven paths; not suitable for wheelchairs or visitors with mobility issues.

Additional information

Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and bus boarding.
You’ll visit St. Callixtus or Domitilla based on the day. Domitilla is closed Tuesdays, while Callixtus is closed Wednesdays.
On all days except Wednesdays, you can get priority-entry to the Callixtus catacombs. At Domitilla, you get skip-the-line entry only on Wednesdays.
Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered inside religious sites.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Guided Tours

Capuchin Crypt + Catacombs Tour with Transfers

From frescoed tombs to walls of bones, journey through Rome’s buried secrets without the crowds or the commute.

Everything you get: Your adventure begins in central Rome with an expert guide leading you through centuries of Roman history. Explore sacred Christian Catacombs carved into volcanic rock and hear stories of early worshippers. Then, travel by air-conditioned coach to the Capuchin Crypt and Museum, where Caravaggio’s art and 4,000 monks’ bones adorn the walls. All entry tickets, transfers, and an audio guide for the Crypt are included.
Why choose: The catacombs and crypt together complete early Christian Rome’s story: they convey how faith and death were transformed into art beneath the city. With convenient travel connecting these sites (7km apar), you can focus on discovery than navigating logistics.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

3 hr. - 3 hr. 30 min.

Audio guide

Transfers available

Guided Tours

Roman Catacombs Guided Tour with Transfers

Enjoy scenic views from an open bus en route the city’s early Christian burial grounds with a multilingual guide.

Everything you get : Board a panoramic bus from central Rome and head to the Roman Catacombs, a subterranean network of tunnels containing the remains of early Roman Christians. Head to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus or Domitilla, skip the queues and tour popes’ crypts and 3rd-century frescoes with a local expert. Tours run in 5 languages and are capped at 25 guests.
Why choose this: This stress-free tour has a designated itinerary covering the most important Roman catacombs, complete with seamless coach transfers (goodbye metro changes and confusing transfers!) With expert storytelling, it’s easier to hear, ask questions, and stay immersed.
Upgrades : Add entry to the bone-lined Capuchin Crypt for a fuller dive into Rome’s early-Christian underground.

‌

Check availability

Book now, pay later

2 hr. - 3 hr.

Transfers available

Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere Tours

From happy customers

Top things to do in Rome

San Nicola in Carcere: Layers of history beneath a sacred basilica

San Nicola Basilica | Quick facts

Why visit San Nicola in Carcere?

Layered history, literally

Architectural details

Fascinating underground

Spiritual reflection

What to see at San Nicola in Carcere?

Spolia from Roman temples

Plan your visit to San Nicola in Carcere

Best time to visit

Getting there:

Timeline of Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere

Ancient Rome (3rd–2nd Century BCE)

6th Century CE

Medieval Period (11th–13th Century)

Renaissance & Baroque Periods (16th Century)

20th Century (1930s)

Present day

Frequently asked questions about San Nicola in Carcere

Is photography allowed at San Nicola in Carcere?

Are there any dress code requirements?

Is San Nicola in Carcere wheelchair accessible?

What is the best time to visit San Nicola in Carcere?

Can I take a guided tour of San Nicola in Carcere?

How to reach San Nicola in Carcere?

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About

Top things to do in Rome

Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere Tours

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Capuchin Crypt Tickets

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Capuchin Crypt + Catacombs Tour with Transfers

Roman Catacombs Tickets with Guided Tour

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Roman Catacombs Guided Tour with Transfers