Rome Glory and Mystery: Explore St. Peter’s and the Underground Catacombs
Embark on a unique journey that takes you above and below the Eternal City—exploring both the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the mystery of Rome’s ancient Catacombs, all in the company of professional guides.
Begin (or end) your experience with a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, where beauty, history, and spirituality meet in breathtaking harmony. Your expert guide will walk you through the most iconic sites inside the basilica, including:
- Michelangelo’s Pietà – a marble masterpiece of emotion and grace
- Bernini’s monumental Baldachin
- The sacred tombs of St. Peter and numerous Popes
Please Note:
The time selected when booking refers to the guided visit of the Basilica. This part of the tour will take place first, unless otherwise communicated.
Later, you’ll be picked up at the designated meeting point and comfortably transported to the Roman Catacombs, located along the ancient Appian Way. There, a licensed guide will lead you through the fascinating underground tunnels—once secret burial places for early Christians.
The Catacombs tour starts every day at 3:00 PM from the indicated meeting point.
Discover the symbolism, faith, and history carved into these subterranean passageways, and hear powerful stories of those who practiced their beliefs in secrecy and strength.
After the tour, you’ll be accompanied back to your original pick-up point for a smooth and worry-free conclusion to your day.
This combo tour is the perfect blend of art, faith, and archaeology, offering two unique yet deeply connected experiences at the very heart of Rome’s spiritual and historical legacy.
What’s included?
- Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with a licensed professional guide
- Highlights inside the Basilica, including:
- Michelangelo’s Pietà
- Bernini’s Baldachin
- Tombs of St. Peter and several Popes
- Guided tour of the Roman Catacombs (San Callisto, San Sebastiano, or Santa Domitilla – based on availability)
- Round-trip transportation from a central meeting point to the Catacombs and back
- Licensed professional guide for the Catacombs
- Small group experience for a more intimate and engaging visit
- Assistance at the meeting point and during transfers
Exclusions
- Transportation to/from the initial meeting point
- Food and beverages
- Entrance to the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica (optional and not part of this tour)
- Gratuities (optional)
- Personal expenses
- Wheelchair or mobility assistance (available upon request but not included)
Please Note
- Public transportation nearby
Important Information – Please Read Carefully
- St. Peter’s Basilica is a place of worship: a modest dress code is strictly required.
- No shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless tops
- Shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women
- Entry may be denied without appropriate attire
- The catacomb visited may vary depending on availability (San Callisto, San Sebastiano, or Santa Domitilla)
- Large bags or luggage are not allowed inside St. Peter’s Basilica or the Catacombs. Please travel light.
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- If you have mobility issues or special needs, please inform us in advance so we can advise accordingly
- The time selected at booking refers to the guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica – Meeting point: Largo del Colonnato, 5 – Please arrive at least 10 minutes early
- The Catacombs tour begins daily at 3:00 PM – Meeting point: Piazza San Clemente, in front of the entrance to the Basilica of San Clemente
- Pets are not allowed
- Access to the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica is not included in this tour
- A valid photo ID (passport or government-issued ID) may be required to enter the Basilica or to receive any applicable reduced tickets
- Refund requests must be submitted no later than 48 hours before the scheduled tour date
- St. Peter’s Basilica or the Catacombs may be closed without prior notice due to religious or institutional events. In such cases, the tour may be rescheduled or partially modified
What do I need to bring?
- Booking confirmation (printed or digital voucher)
- Valid photo ID or passport
- Comfortable walking shoes – both the Basilica and the Catacombs involve walking and stairs
- Water, especially in warmer months
- A light jacket or sweater – the Catacombs are cool and humid year-round
- Respectful clothing – shoulders and knees must be covered to enter St. Peter’s Basilica
Cancellation policy
- We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 7 days or less before the event
St. Peter’s Basilica and Square
St. Peter’s Square is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring spaces in the world, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century to welcome pilgrims from all over the globe. Surrounded by a grand colonnade of 284 Doric columns, the square opens dramatically to the majestic façade of St. Peter’s Basilica—the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church. Inside the Basilica, visitors can admire masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s Pietà, the breathtaking dome, and the papal altar built directly above the tomb of St. Peter. Rich in art, history, and spiritual significance, this is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome.
Catacombs on the Appian Way
Hidden beneath the surface of Rome lies an extraordinary world carved into volcanic rock: the Catacombs, ancient underground cemeteries used by early Christians between the 2nd and 5th centuries AD.
Among the most remarkable is the Catacomb of Callixtus, located along the Appian Way, which houses the famous Crypt of the Popes—once the burial site of several early popes and martyrs. These sacred tunnels stretch for miles and offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives, beliefs, and art of Rome’s first Christians.
Visitors can admire:
- Intricate frescoes and symbols of faith, carved or painted on the walls
- Ancient loculi, or burial niches, were stacked along narrow passageways
- Larger chambers known as cubicula, which were often family tombs
- Early Christian inscriptions in Greek and Latin
Due to preservation and access logistics, the catacomb visited may vary based on availability. The experience may include one of the following:
- San Callisto – the largest and most historically significant
- San Sebastiano – named after the Christian martyr and soldier
- Santa Domitilla – known for its vastness and beautifully preserved frescoes
The catacombs are cool and humid, with uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes and a light jacket are recommended. This visit offers a unique opportunity to connect with the roots of Christian tradition in an unforgettable and atmospheric setting.
You can start this experience at the following places.
St. Peter’s Basilica Meeting/Strating Point
Largo del Colonnato 5, 00193 Roma, IT
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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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