Rome Catacombs Tour and Capuchin Crypts with Transportation
Skip the line to explore the creepy underground world of Roman tombs then visit the Mouth of Truth
If you’ve ever tried to navigate Rome’s underground wonders, you know it can feel like piecing together a puzzle, with scattered sites and limited access. With us, skip the line to these historic tombs and step into the Capuchin Crypts adorned with the bones of 3,700 friars. Visit Santa Maria in Cosmedin and Pope Hadrian’s Crypt, uncovering the stories of popes and martyrs buried below. With transportation included, this tour connects you to Rome’s most haunting and fascinating sites with ease.
- Meet your guide at Piazza Barberini
- Capuchin Crypt
- Bone Chapels
- Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Grave of St. Cecilia
- Appian Way
- Aurelian Wall
- Santa Maria in Cosmedin
- Mouth of Truth
- Hadrian's Crypt
- End your tour at Circo Massimo
Make your way to the Piazza Barberini in central Rome, where you’ll meet your guide holding a sign in front of the fountain (Fontana del Tritone). Along with a small group of up to 19 people and your engaging guide, you’ll walk a couple minutes to the Capuchin Crypts, where you will view the iconic Bone Chapels. Afterwards, board your air-conditioned vehicle to the entrance of the catacombs, around 20 minutes away. Along the way, you’ll pass the historic Appian Way as your guide tells stories of the slave crucifixions during the revolt of Spartacus. At the Catacombs of St. Callixtus you’ll skip the line and get straight into exploring the creepy underground tombs, ancient artwork, and more!
Rome Catacombs Tour Description
This 3-hour tour includes:
A guided tour of the Capuchin Crypts
A guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus
Pass by the ancient Appian Way
Aurelian Walls
Visit Santa Maria in Cosmedin
Hadrian's Crypt and Mouth of Truth
A fun, English-speaking guide
Private, climate-controlled transportation between sites
We ask both men and women to cover knees and shoulders, otherwise the catacomb management might refuse entry to religious sites and you’ll miss out on a portion of your tour. We understand the summers in Rome can be hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.
Capuchin Crypts and Bones
This crypt contains the skeletal remains of some 3,700 human bodies, believed to be Capuchin friars buried by their order. They were buried between the years 1500 and 1870, during which time the Roman Catholic Church permitted burial in and under churches.
The underground crypt is divided into six chapels: Crypt of the Resurrection, Crypt of the Skulls, Crypt of the Pelvises, Crypt of the Leg Bones and Thigh Bones, and Crypt of the Three Skeletons. Lit only by dim natural light seeping in through cracks and small fluorescent lamps, the crypt walls are elaborately decorated with skeletal remains.
The Catacombs of St. Callixtus
Along the Appian Way is where the first cemeteries of Rome were built. It’s here that you’ll stop to see the above-ground cemeteries of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus. Then it’s time to head underground to see extensive network of burial sites at one of the most popular catacombs in Rome.
Over time, these catacombs became the coveted burial place as prominent martyrs and pontiffs were laid to rest here. Your guide will lead you to the crypts filled with popes from the third century as well as an area with impeccably preserved paintings.
The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are typically closed on Wednesdays and sometimes close on other days too. Not to worry though, your guide will take you to another incredible catacombs site if your tour lands on one of these days.
The Appian Way and Aurelian Walls
Emperor Aurelian built a defensive wall around Rome during the third century to defend the city against invading barbarians. You’ll pass the Aurelian Walls in your climate-controlled vehicle and see them up close. Leading all the way to Puglia in Southern Italy, the Appian Way is one of the most important ancient Roman roads.
This road was also the location of the crucifixion of 10,000 slaves during the revolt of Spartacus. Thankfully, you won't see any crucifixions today, but your guide will retell the story for you and make it come alive.
Santa Maria in Cosmedin Church
Finish your tour with a visit to Santa Maria in Cosmedin, a charming medieval basilica steeped in history. Step into Hadrian's Crypt, a lesser-known gem that is believed to have been a burial site connected to Pope Hadrian at some point in history. Nestled beneath the church, this crypt offers a fascinating glimpse into Rome’s layered past, blending ancient imperial connections with the sacred heritage of the medieval basilica. Finally, test your bravery at the famous Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth), a legendary stone mask said to bite the hand of anyone who tells a lie.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
436 total reviews
Leave a reviewErie Creepy and Cool
Andrew Goodspeed
Arvin was our guide for this tour and what a bundle of energy he was. You could tell how excited he was to be our guide. He was very informative at the Crypts and then telling us all about the sights around the city as we took the ride to the Catacombs. At the end of our tour he also gave us ideas and recommendations for local places to eat at. This was a very interesting and Erie tour and we really enjoyed our time on it.
Randy Garrett
Thomas McCormick
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Wear comfortable shoes for this walking tour. In spring and autumn, we recommend bringing a light jacket.
Is there a dress code to enter the religious sites on this tour?
We ask both men and women to cover knees and shoulders, otherwise you may be refused entry to religious sites and miss out on a portion of your tour. We understand the summers in Rome can be hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way, you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.
What to bring?
Wear comfortable shoes for this walking tour. In spring and autumn, we recommend bringing a light jacket.
Why do I have to pay for my child who's under 6 years old?
Since this trip includes transportation, all passengers on the tour must be seated for safety and legal reasons. That means a young child takes up the same space as a youth or adult. For peace of mind, we can bring a car seat for children who need one, so please let us know in the comment box on the order confirmation page.
What catacomb does this tour visit?
This tour visits the most popular catacombs at St. Callixtus where most of the early popes were buried over the centuries. On most Wednesdays and some other days, these catacombs may be closed and your tour will visit another incredible catacombs site instead.
Can I visit the catacombs at night?
Absolutely! Check out our VIP Rome Catacombs Night Tour with Capuchin Crypts.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
If you have any doubts about your mobility, we suggest taking a Catacombs Private Tour so your needs can be better accommodated.
Will I see bones?
Yes! This tour visits the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione which houses a 17th-century ossuary underneath. There you will see the bones of around 3,700 Capuchin friars!
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No hotel pickup is included on this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designated meeting point.
Where does this tour end?
After visiting the catacombs and crypts, your driver will return you to central Rome at Piazza Barberini where your tour started.
Can I take photos inside the Catacombs?
No. It is not permitted to take photos either in the Catacombs or in the Cappuchin Crypts.
Will I be able to walk on the Appian Way?
No, you'll only pass by the Via Appia, but you'll still learn about its significance from your expert tour leader!
You may also like
Skip the Line
Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums
Explore the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!
Exclusive Access
Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour through the Gladiator's Gate
Walk in the footsteps of gladiators on the Colosseum floor and see the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Skip the Line
Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel
Skip the line and gain direct access to the Raphael Rooms, Creation of Man, and St. Peter's Basilica
Skip the Line
St. Peter's Dome Climb and Sistine Chapel Combo Tour
Begin your day early and see Rome from above, the Papal Crypts below, and the Vatican museums nearby
Skip the Line
Semi-Private Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel
Enjoy a premium and exclusive tour of the Raphael Rooms, St.Peter's Basilica, and more!
Skip the Line
Private Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Vatican Museums
See the best of Rome your way with a private guide at the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, and more!
Skip the Line
Semi-Private Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor
Stand where gladiators fought on the Colosseum floor, then tour the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Skip the Line
Private Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
See the Colosseum and ancient Rome like a VIP, the Temple of Caesar, and more!
Guided Tour
Trastevere Local Food Tour in Rome
Join a culinary guide to savor authentic Roman food, such as tasty cheese, pasta, gelato, and wine
Private Tour
Private Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Dome Climb Complete Tour
Climb St. Peter's Dome then tour the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Skip the Line
Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Skip the line at the Colosseum, plus Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!
Climb the Dome
Ultimate St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb and Tour with Papal Crypts
See Michelangelo's La Pietà up close and climb the dome for stunning views of Rome and the Vatican
Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius from Rome
Full Day Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Tour from Rome
Skip-the-line at Pompeii, savor a three-course meal, and walk amid Mt. Vesuvius’ volcanic formations
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour
See the wonders of the Vatican on a tailored private tour with expert guide and skip-the-line entry
Skip the Line
Private Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St Peter's Basilica Tour
Enjoy a tailored VIP Vatican experience with a dedicated private guide
Private Tour
Private Pompeii & Sorrento Day Trip from Rome
Step back in time with a private guided tour of Pompeii then enjoy a lazy afternoon in Sorrento
Private Tour
Tivoli Fountains & Hadrian's Villa Private Tour from Rome
Escape the city on a VIP private day trip to Tivoli, with Villa d’Este, Hadrian’s Estate, and more!
Skip the Line
Private Family-Friendly Rome Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Bring the Colosseum to life on this interactive kids tour with a treasure hunt and fun local guide
Day Trip
Unforgettable Rome Day Trip to Pompeii and Sorrento
The easiest way to dive deep into the famous ancient ruins and soak up the sunny coast of Sorrento
Semi-Private Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Immerse in Roman history as you visit Arch of Titus, Temple of Caesar and more with an expert guide
Cooking Class
Dough to Dessert: 3-in-1 Cooking Class near Piazza Navona
Master the art of making fettuccine, ravioli, and mouthwatering tiramisu in a single day!
Skip the Line
Catacombs Private Tour in Rome
Discover the mysterious Roman Catacombs, Capuchin Crypts, and Appian Way on an personal private tour
Free cancellation
3-Hour Scenic Golf Cart Tour of Rome in a Small Group
Experience the Eternal City in complete comfort with stops at 8 iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites
Entry Ticket
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets
Skip the line and gain quicker access to the Vatican so you can explore at your leisure
New Tour
Testaccio Small Group Food Tour
Sip an espresso, indulge in authentic Italian pasta and wine, and explore a local Roman Market
Skip the Line
Vatican at Closing Time with Sistine Chapel
Book a unique experience that visits the Vatican in the early evening with fewer crowds
Borghese Gallery Skip the Line
Skip-the-Line Borghese Gallery Tour
Join an intimate small-group tour and uncover Baroque masterpieces with an expert guide.
New Tour
Tasty Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class Near Piazza Navona
Cook like a pro with a local chef as you master two Italian dishes then savor your own creations
Free cancellation
Rome Sightseeing Private Tour by Golf Cart
Whiz through Rome to see the Colosseum, Vatican, Roman Forum, Oppian Hill, Tiber Island, and more!
New Tour
Authentic Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in Rome
Embark on an Italian culinary adventure in a 17th-century palace near Piazza Navona!
Skip the Line
After Hours Rome Catacombs Tour with Capuchin Crypts
Experience Rome’s underground tombs and religious bone displays on this exclusive night tour
New Tour
Rome’s Catacombs and Appian Way Golf Cart Small Group Tour
Escape the crowds and journey through ancient roads and underground tombs alongside an expert guide
New Tour
Skip-the-Line Pantheon Express Guided Tour in Rome
In one hour, visit the Panethon and marvel at Michelangelo’s Christ the Redeemer statue
Night tour
Rome Evening Tour by Tuk Tuk
Journey from the Colosseum to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain with a private driver-guide
New Tour
Prati Eats: A Delicious Walking Tour
Indulge in Rome's famous pizza, pasta, and wine alongside a knowledgeable foodie guide
Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill Access Plus Audio Guide
Take in Rome’s magnificent ancient wonders at your own pace
Tipsy Roman Cooking Class: Spritz & Pasta
Join a small group near Termini station to master an Italian classic while enjoying local cocktails!
New Tour
Traditional Roman Cooking Class in Jewish Ghetto
Learn how to make pasta, seasonal vegetables, and a traditional dessert in a charming neighborhood
New Tour
Rome’s Appian Way Tour by E-Bike
Pedal through Parco dell’Appia Antica alongside an expert guide and admire ancient Roman marvels
1.5-Hour Express Private Tour of Rome by Golf Cart
Explore must-see sights, including Colosseum, Piazza Navona, and Trevi Fountain, in just 90 minutes
Tuscany and Umbria Day Trip from Rome with Lunch and Brunello Tasting
Discover Civita di Bagnoregio and Orvieto, with a 3-Course meal and 5 wine tastings
New Tour
Ultimate Pizza & Tiramisu Making Class Near Piazza Navona
Learn the secrets of making authentic tiramisu and pizza from a pizzaiolo chef before devouring them
New Tour
Trastevere Pasta Making Class: Fettuccine and Maltagliati
Head to Rome’s trendiest food district to try your hand at authentic pasta making (and eating!)
Skip the Line
Vatican Uncovered: A Private, Detailed Tour
Get an in-depth experience tailored to your interests of art, sculptures, and the Sistine Chapel
Private Tour
Private Half Day E-Bike Tour of Rome
Cycle through the Roman streets with ease to see the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!
Exclusive Access
Semi-Private Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Get special access to the Underground dungeons and Arena Floor on this guided semi-private tour
Guided Tour
Half Day Electric Bike Tour of Rome
Pedal past the Colosseum, Piazza Navona, and up Capitoline Hill in the peaceful morning
Skip the Line
Private Early Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel
Get privileged access to the Vatican on a VIP early morning private tour with St. Peter’s Basilica
Skip the Line
Private Family-Friendly Vatican and Sistine Chapel Tour
Enjoy a boredom-free Vatican private tour that's perfect for kids, with treasure hunt and fun guide
Private Tour
Rome Evening Cocktail Tour with Local Guide
Experience Rome’s cocktail culture as you stroll by the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trastevere!
Private Tour
Vatican at Closing Time Private Evening Tour with Sistine Chapel
Appreciate the Vatican masterpieces without less crowds on our tour with a private guide
Private Tour
Private Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius Day Trip from Rome
An unforgettable visit to ancient ruins with all the details and transportation taken care of
Skip the Line
Private Borghese Gallery Tour
Admire stunning Baroque art most miss like Bernini's Rape of Proserpina & Apollo and Daphne
Private Tour
Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Private Rome Tour
With a private guide, unearth the trendiest Rome districts from Santa Maria Basilica to Tiber Island
Skip the Line
Alone at the Vatican: Private After Hours Tour
Experience the quiet of the Sistine Chapel without the crowds after your tailored tour
Skip the Line
Basilicas of Rome Private Driving Tour
Uncover relics of Catholic history across three of Rome’s major churches with an expert local guide
Skip the Line
The Quickest Direct Access Private Vatican Tour
Explore the Vatican on a shorter, tailored tour that includes the Sistine Chapel
Private Tour
Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio & Winery Private Day Trip from Rome
Escape the city on a memorable journey through Umbria’s historic towns to taste fine local wines
Private Tour
Private Transfer from Rome to Amalfi Coast with Tour of Pompeii
Travel south in style with door-to-door service, and explore Italy’s lost city with a private guide
Skip the Line
Private Rome City Driving Tour
See the best of Rome with the comfort of your own private vehicle and a dedicated local tour guide
Transportation Included
Rome Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia
Book a private Rome tour and see the Colosseum, Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and more in just one day!
Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence
Soar above Tuscany on an exclusive VIP tour, complete with private wine tastings and a gourmet lunch
New Tour
Golf Cart Tour of Rome with Pizza and Gelato Dinner
Indulge in authentic Italian pizza, savor gelato, and whizz between Pantheon, Trastevere and more
New Tour
Trastevere Food Tour and Pasta Making Class
Sample classic Roman delicacies and learn how to make fettuccine from scratch!
New tour
Self-Drive Rome Sightseeing Tour by Electric Car
Take the wheel of a Fiat Topolino for an eco-friendly convoy around the Eternal City’s iconic sights
New Tour
Four-Course Roman Dinner with Wine Pairing Near the Pantheon
Taste exquisite Italian food with sommelier-style pairings in a stunning 15th-century building
Sommelier-Led Food & Wine Tour in Rome at Sunset
Join an expert to discover three exceptional restaurants near the Vatican with a small group
New Tour
Testaccio Market Morning Food Tour in Rome
Immerse yourself in Roman cuisine as you savor supplì, carbonara pasta and other regional delicacies
Amalfi Coast from Rome
Positano and Amalfi Day Trip from Rome with Boat Cruise
Navigate along the Coast, explore the picturesque town of Positano, and enjoy a classic limoncello
New Tour
Rome by Vespa Small Group Driving Tour
Join an intimate Vespa convoy and scoot past the Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona
Full Day Tour from Rome to Ponza Island with Boat Tour and Lunch
Indulge in an ultimate day of comfort and adventure featuring a 5-hour cruise with food
Appian Way and Catacombs Walking Tour in Rome
Walk in emperors’ footsteps, explore chariot stadium ruins, and descend into underground tombs
New Tour
Rome Vintage Fiat 500 Sightseeing Tour
Cruise around in style as you explore the Eternal City’s top landmarks, sights, and attractions!
New tour
Half-Day Ostia Antica Small Group Tour from Rome
In the company of an expert guide, discover the magnificent ruins of Rome's ancient port city
Rome's Appian Way, Aqueduct Park, and Catacombs by E-Bike
Cruise through the historic Appia Antica, visit Catacombs of St. Callixtus and enjoy a light lunch!
Private Tour
Piazza Navona Underground Ruins Tour with Palazzo Altemps
Admire the stunning Suicidal Gaul, Athlete at Rest, and more then see the ruins of Domitian' Stadium
Borghese Gallery "Story Tellers" Small Group Tour
Explore Rome’s Baroque Masterpieces with Expert Guides and Skip-the-Line Access
Free cancellation
Rome Golf Cart Food Tour: Explore the City's Iconic Sites and Cuisine
Journey Through Time and Taste on a Small-Group Adventure
New tour
Night VIP Golf Cart Tour in Rome with Drinks and Bites
Cruise through Trastevere and Gianicolo while enjoying classic cocktails, tasty food, and prosecco!
Guided Buggy Tour of Rome
Guided Buggy Self-Drive Tour of Rome
Cruise to the Eternal City’s most iconic landmarks, historic monuments, and breathtaking viewpoints!
Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Full Day Tour from Rome
Sip Limoncello in the Italy’s crown jewel and enjoy visiting an ancient town frozen in time
New Tour
Private Tour of Rome’s Seven Hills by Tuk Tuk
Cruise to the Orange Gardens, and admire the view from Circus Maximum from a real ape calessino
Caravaggio's Masterpieces
Private Palazzo Barberini Museum Tour with Art Historian Guide
See Judith Beheading Holofrenes, La Fornarina, and more inside this opulent 17th-century palace
New Tour
Tuscany Day Trip from Rome with Vineyard Lunch and Wine Tasting
Wander through the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza and enjoy a 3-course meal!
New Tour
Castel Sant’ Angelo Skip the Line Small Group Tour in Rome
Visit Hadrian’s Tomb, learn about the legend of Archangel Michael, and view stunning frescoes!
