Appian Way Private Tour: Ancient Rome's Golden Age & Imperial Villas

Highlights

• Luxury Private Tour
• Iconic Archaeological Sites
• Culinary Experience

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Museo delle Mura

   Pass by

   The Museum of the Walls is located inside the monumental Porta San Sebastiano, one of the most magnificent gates of the Aurelian Walls. It offers a unique journey through the history of Rome’s ancient fortifications and provides access to a well-preserved stretch of the defensive walkway. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Appian Way from the top of its towers, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the Roman countryside.

2. 2

   Catacombe San Sebastiano

   Pass by

   The Catacombs of San Sebastian are a renowned underground cemetery located along the ancient Appian Way, famous for being the first to be called "catacombs" due to their location in a hollow. They are historically significant for having temporarily housed the remains of Saints Peter and Paul and for featuring a complex network of tunnels across four levels. Above the site stands a majestic basilica, and the galleries preserve remarkable examples of early Christian frescoes and inscriptions.

3. 3

   Mausoleo di Cecilia Metella e Castrum Caetani - Parco Archeologico dell'Appia Antica

   30min

   Here is a concise, three-line description for each location, perfect for your luxury tour brochure or a professional WhatsApp preview: Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella The iconic circular tomb-fortress that has dominated the Appian Way for over 2,000 years. A masterpiece of Roman engineering, it was later transformed into a medieval castle with crenelated walls. The perfect starting point to admire the monumental grandeur of Rome’s most famous ancient road.

4. 4

   Catacombe di San Callisto

   Pass by

   The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are among the largest and most important underground burial sites in Rome, serving as the official cemetery for the Church in the 3rd century AD. Located along the Appian Way, they house the famous "Crypt of the Popes," where nine early pontiffs were interred. This vast labyrinth of tunnels and galleries offers a profound glimpse into early Christian art and the history of the early Church.

5. 5

   Complesso di Capo di Bove - Parco Archeologico dell'Appia Antica

   30min

   Complex of Capo di Bove An elegant archaeological site featuring the well-preserved ruins of a private 2nd-century Roman thermal bath. Wander through lush green gardens to discover stunning original floor mosaics and ancient heating systems. A serene and intimate stop that reveals the sophisticated lifestyle of Rome’s wealthiest citizens.

6. 6

   Villa dei Quintili e Santa Maria Nova - Parco Archeologico dell'Appia Antica

   1h

   Villa of the Quintili The largest and most luxurious suburban residence of Ancient Rome, once owned by two powerful consuls. It was so magnificent that Emperor Commodus seized it for himself to enjoy its private theaters and baths. A breathtaking archaeological park offering a glimpse into the absolute opulence of imperial life. Santa Maria Nova A fascinating medieval farmhouse built directly upon the massive ancient Roman cisterns of the Quintili Villa. It represents a unique architectural "layer cake" where Roman brickwork meets medieval and Renaissance history. Explore the beautifully restored interiors and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Roman countryside.

7. 7

   Antiquarium di Lucrezia Romana - Parco Archeologico dell'Appia Antica

   1h

   Antiquarium of Lucrezia Romana A modern museum showcasing precious artifacts, statues, and jewels discovered during local excavations. It tells the intimate story of the people who lived and worked along the Appian Way thousands of years ago. The ideal final stop to connect the monumental ruins you've seen with the objects of daily Roman life.

8. 8

   Arco Di Druso

   Pass by

   The Arch of Drusus is an ancient Roman monument located near the first mile of the Appian Way, just before the Porta San Sebastiano. Despite its traditional name, it is now widely believed to be part of the Aqua Antoniniana aqueduct that supplied the Baths of Caracalla, rather than a triumphal arch for Drusus. Today, only the central arch remains, standing as a majestic gateway that once connected to defensive walls and was originally covered in fine marble.

Before you go

Location

Via di Porta San Sebastiano, 18, 00179, Italy