Rome Private Sightseeing and Catacombs Underground Guided Tour with Transfer
Private Rome Chauffeured Sightseeing and Catacombs Tour – Underground Experience with Tickets and Transfers Included
Discover one of Rome’s most fascinating and mysterious hidden worlds with this exclusive private guided tour of the ancient Catacombs — a journey underground like no other.
Accompanied by a licensed tour guide and private chauffeur, you’ll travel comfortably from the city center to the outskirts of Rome, along the Appian Way, one of the oldest roads in the world. Along the route, enjoy panoramic views and photo opportunities at iconic landmarks such as the Aurelian Walls, the Baths of Caracalla, the Circus Maximus, and more.
Once at the Catacombs, you’ll descend into a vast and surreal labyrinth of tunnels stretching over 150 kilometers — among the longest and most complex underground networks in the world. Your guide will lead you through sections of these ancient burial grounds where early Christians practiced their faith in secret.
Explore:
- Underground crypts, chapels, and small mausoleums
- Ancient frescoes, inscriptions, and sarcophagi
- Burial sites of martyrs, popes, and — according to legend — even apostles
Depending on the day, your visit will include one of Rome’s most important catacombs: San Callisto, San Sebastiano, or Santa Domitilla — each with its own story and unique architectural features.
What’s included?
- Private chauffeured vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off included
- Official licensed guide specialized in Christian Rome and archaeology
- Admission tickets to the Catacombs included
- Sightseeing along the way
- A fully guided experience tailored to your pace and interests
Ideal for families, couples, history lovers, and private groups
Exclusions
- Tip or gratuity
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Guide service during the transfer to the
- Catacombs
Please note
- Public transportation nearby
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, or recommended for guests with mobility issues or those using walkers.
- Pets are not allowed.
- An adult must accompany children at all times.
- Child discounts are only valid upon presentation of a valid ID.
- The Catacombs are sacred sites; therefore, both men and women must cover their knees and shoulders.
- The catacombs maintain a constant temperature of approximately 14°C / 60°F with high humidity. Please dress accordingly.
- The catacombs are accessible only with a licensed guide; visitors are not allowed to enter independently, leave their group, or go beyond marked areas.
- The chauffeured transfer to the catacombs is provided by a professional driver (not a guide).
- The departure time may vary by up to 20 minutes due to logistical reasons.
- All participants must arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure. Late arrivals may result in missed entry and are considered no-shows (non-refundable).
What do I need to bring?
- Comfortable walking shoes – the tour includes walking on uneven surfaces and inside archaeological sites
- Appropriate clothing – the catacombs are sacred; shoulders and knees must be covered
- Light jacket or sweater – the catacombs maintain a constant temperature of about 14°C (60°F) and are humid
- Water bottle, especially in warm weather
- Booking confirmation – digital or printed, to show to your driver or guide
- Small personal bag or backpack – large bags may not be allowed inside some areas and could be subject to inspection
Cancellation policy
- We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 1 day or less before the event
- We will charge a cancellation fee of 0% if booking is cancelled 1000 days or less before the event
Meeting/Starting Point
Meeting point in Piazza San Clemente in front of the Basilica in San Clemente.
Parco Archeologico dell’Appia Antica
Starting, with a small group, from our travel agency, near the Colosseum, you will be comfortably transported on an air-conditioned vehicle, in one of the most interesting and visited places in Rome, the “catacombs” on the Via Appia Antica. Parco Archeologico dell’Appia Antica
Known as the “Regina Viarum” (Queen of Roads), the Appian Way is one of the oldest and most important Roman roads. The Parco Archeologico dell’Appia Antica preserves this historic route and its surrounding countryside, dotted with ancient ruins, tombs, aqueducts, and Christian catacombs. Walking or driving along this road is like stepping back in time—immersed in Roman history and nature just outside the modern city.
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
Along the route, you’ll admire the majestic Baths of Caracalla, one of the grandest thermal complexes of ancient Rome. Built between 212 and 217 AD under the emperors Septimius Severus and Caracalla, these monumental baths could accommodate thousands of Romans daily. Though now in ruins, they remain a symbol of imperial grandeur and engineering mastery. Over the centuries, they’ve inspired iconic structures around the world, from ancient basilicas to modern train stations. Among the treasures once housed here were masterpieces like the Farnese Hercules and the Farnese Bull.
Circus Maximus
You’ll also pass by the legendary Circus Maximus, the largest stadium of ancient Rome, nestled between the Aventine and Palatine hills. Once able to host over 150,000 spectators for thrilling chariot races and public games, it served as the blueprint for all Roman circuses throughout the Empire. Today, it remains an iconic open space in the heart of the city, rich in history and grandeur.
Aurelian Walls
Aurelian Walls – Rome’s Ancient Fortification
Built between 271 and 275 AD under Emperor Aurelian, the Aurelian Walls were constructed to defend the city of Rome from external threats during a time of instability. Stretching over 19 kilometers, these massive brick fortifications once enclosed all seven hills of ancient Rome. With their impressive gates, towers, and bastions, the walls stand today as one of the most remarkable examples of Roman military architecture, offering a glimpse into the city’s strategic and imperial past.
Catacombs of Saint Callixtus
The Catacomb(s) of Callixtus (also known as the Cemetery of Callixtus) is one of the Catacombs of Rome on the Appian Way, most notable for containing the Crypt of the Popes, which once contained the tombs of several popes from the 2nd to 4th centuries. The catacomb forms part of an ancient funerary complex, the Complesso Callistiano, that occupies thirty hectares. The boundaries of this are the Via Appia Antica, the Via Ardeatina, and the Vicolo Delle Sette Chiese. The area of the catacomb proper is about fifteen hectares, and it goes down to five levels. A rough estimate puts the length of passageways at about twenty kilometers and the occupancy at about half a million bodies.
You can start this experience at the following places.
Starting/Meeting Point
Piazza di San Clemente, 00184 Roma, IT
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No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.
25 years of experience
Tour in The City was founded in 1990 in response to the ever increasing demand for customized guided tours, in order to visit one of the most important art collections in the World, the eternal city Rome.
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Must-see attractions
Colosseum
The Colosseum, Rome’s legendary ancient arena, once echoed with gladiator battles and grand shows, and now stands as a powerful symbol of the city's eternal legacy.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is a masterpiece of Roman ingenuity, crowned by its iconic dome and central oculus, serving as a temple-turned-church for almost two millennia.
Roman Forum
Once the center of ancient Roman society, the Roman Forum is a vast archaeological park showcasing temples, civic buildings, and storied ruins.
Vatican City
Vatican City, the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church, holds a wealth of art, history, and faith, housing St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
Palatine Hill
Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s famed seven hills, was the site of imperial palaces and offers breathtaking views over the city and its ancient ruins.
Galleria Borghese
The Galleria Borghese, set within the lush Villa Borghese gardens, showcases a stunning collection of sculptures and paintings by masters such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica, the crown jewel of Vatican City, is a majestic architectural marvel housing Michelangelo’s Pietà and the soaring dome he masterfully designed.
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel, famed for Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring ceiling frescoes, is both a masterpiece of Renaissance art and the sacred setting of the papal conclave.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo, once Emperor Hadrian’s grand mausoleum, now serves as a museum with sweeping views of Rome and a rich history as a fortress and papal stronghold.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain, Rome's largest and most iconic Baroque fountain, is famed for its stunning sculptures.
Testimonials
Hear From Our Happy Explorers!
Martin G
A hot visit to the Colosseum!
Had to collect tickets from a shop near to the Colosseum – lady there was most helpful in explaining where we needed to go and to download apps to our phones for the self audio guide (also gave us some free water with the heat!). Found the entrance easy and then enjoyed the tour – only issue was that the GPS signal wasnt great inside so it was difficult to sync the audio guide to what we were looking at. Took a break before doing the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum – we went on a very hot day and it was hard work walking around – make sure you have plenty of water!! Surfaces were very uneven – which is understandble considering its an ancient monument.
Martin G
FamilyOfFive
Amazing place to visit, weak audio guide
Such an amazing place to visit, it’s easy to understand why this is a must see! The sites were fantastic, but the audio tour was too generic. There were some interesting clips, but not enough about what we were looking at when we were at different points and too much generic history. In retrospect we would have got a lot more from a guide, but it was very nice to go at our own pace.
FamilyOfFive
Eva N
Unforgettable experience!
This tour was nothing short of amazing! From start to finish, everything was organized, engaging, and informative. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and brought the history of the Colosseum to life with fascinating stories, little-known facts, and a real passion for Ancient Rome.
The skip-the-line access was a huge plus—no waiting around in the hot sun! We also got upgraded for an Arena tour and got to explore areas that aren’t always open to the public, which made the experience feel exclusive and even more special.
Eva N
Poppy B
Very good customer service from Dolly
I was due to travel in August on this holiday however due to operational reasons, the tour may not have run and I was made aware straight away. I dealt with a women called Dolly and she offered me alternative options and we decided to refund the tour which was done promptly. Dolly gave me some brilliant advice and some useful insight to Rome.She was fab!
Poppy B
Tom P
Good day out
Really enjoyed the experience, can’t remember the tour guide’s name but he was very good. Very informative and detailed on the tour which kept me engaged about the history. It wasn’t as busy as usual which was also a pleasant experience. Highly enjoyable, many thanks.
Tom P
James C
Well worth it
Really well organised and our guide was great. Really informative and engaging. You wasn’t rushed and had a nice flow to it.
Would highly recommend this. Not sure you’d capture everything without the guide.
James C
Testimonials
Hear From Our Happy Explorers!
Martin G
A hot visit to the Colosseum!
Had to collect tickets from a shop near to the Colosseum – lady there was most helpful in explaining where we needed to go and to download apps to our phones for the self audio guide (also gave us some free water with the heat!). Found the entrance easy and then enjoyed the tour – only issue was that the GPS signal wasnt great inside so it was difficult to sync the audio guide to what we were looking at. Took a break before doing the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum – we went on a very hot day and it was hard work walking around – make sure you have plenty of water!! Surfaces were very uneven – which is understandble considering its an ancient monument.
Martin G
FamilyOfFive
Amazing place to visit, weak audio guide
Such an amazing place to visit, it’s easy to understand why this is a must see! The sites were fantastic, but the audio tour was too generic. There were some interesting clips, but not enough about what we were looking at when we were at different points and too much generic history. In retrospect we would have got a lot more from a guide, but it was very nice to go at our own pace.
FamilyOfFive
Eva N
Unforgettable experience!
This tour was nothing short of amazing! From start to finish, everything was organized, engaging, and informative. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and brought the history of the Colosseum to life with fascinating stories, little-known facts, and a real passion for Ancient Rome.
The skip-the-line access was a huge plus—no waiting around in the hot sun! We also got upgraded for an Arena tour and got to explore areas that aren’t always open to the public, which made the experience feel exclusive and even more special.
Eva N
Poppy B
Very good customer service from Dolly
I was due to travel in August on this holiday however due to operational reasons, the tour may not have run and I was made aware straight away. I dealt with a women called Dolly and she offered me alternative options and we decided to refund the tour which was done promptly. Dolly gave me some brilliant advice and some useful insight to Rome.She was fab!
Poppy B
Tom P
Good day out
Really enjoyed the experience, can’t remember the tour guide’s name but he was very good. Very informative and detailed on the tour which kept me engaged about the history. It wasn’t as busy as usual which was also a pleasant experience. Highly enjoyable, many thanks.
Tom P
James C
Well worth it
Really well organised and our guide was great. Really informative and engaging. You wasn’t rushed and had a nice flow to it.
Would highly recommend this. Not sure you’d capture everything without the guide.
James C
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