Rome by Ape Calessino Private Tour: Appian Way & Food Adventure
Discover ancient landmarks and local flavors across 2 food stops aboard a vintage vehicle
Navigating Rome’s historic sites can be a logistical nightmare, especially when trying to cover iconic spots like the Appian Way and Garbatella in one day. Skip the hassle—our 3-hour private Piaggio Ape car tour offers seamless transportation, exclusive stories, and curated stops at Rome’s best-kept culinary gems. Including stops at Colosseum and local food spots, this experience combines history, comfort, and unforgettable flavors, ensuring your time in Rome is nothing short of extraordinary.
- Meeting Point in Piazzale Ostiense
- Pyramid of Caius Cestius
- Baths of Caracalla
- Colosseum
- Santo Stefano Rotondo
- Appian Way
- Food Stop
- Garbatella neighborhood
- Ending Point in Piazzale Ostiense
Start your journey in Piazzale Ostiense, near the Pyramid of Caius Cestius, where your driver welcomes you to an unforgettable adventure aboard a meticulously restored 1972 Piaggio Ape Calessino. This vintage vehicle, with its charming open-air design, lets you experience the city with the breeze in your hair and a unique vantage point. Forget the headaches of navigating traffic or deciphering public transport; this private tour ensures effortless travel to some of Rome’s most fascinating sites.
From the historic Aurelian Walls to the peaceful Appian Way, your driver brings each location to life with expert storytelling. Along the way, indulge your senses with stops for authentic Roman flavors, from artisan cheeses to freshly sliced prosciutto, in the vibrant Garbatella district.
Rome by Ape Calessino Private Tour: Appian Way & Food Adventure Description:
Your 3-Hour Private Tour Includes:
Private transportation aboard a vintage Piaggio Ape Calessino
Professional, English-speaking driver
Ride across the Appian Way
Stops at iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum, Baths of Caracalla, and Domine Quo Vadis Church
2 local food tastings
Pyramid of Caius Cestius
Your adventure begins at the meeting point in Piazzale Ostiense. Here, you’ll meet your friendly driver and guide, who will introduce you to your vintage Piaggio Ape Calessino. After a quick orientation, hop aboard this charming 1972 vehicle and prepare for a three-hour exploration of Rome’s hidden gems and culinary delights.
As you leave Piazzale Ostiense, your first marvel is the Pyramid of Caius Cestius, an Egyptian-inspired tomb over 2,000 years old. Built for a Roman magistrate, this unique landmark showcases the empire’s fascination with foreign cultures. Your guide sets the tone for the day by unraveling the pyramid’s history and its role as a gateway to ancient Rome.
Baths of Caracalla and the Colosseum
Driving through the heart of the Eternal City, you’ll pass by the iconic Colosseum, a symbol of Imperial Rome, and the magnificent Baths of Caracalla. Once the largest public bathhouse in Rome, these ruins are a testament to Roman engineering and the luxurious lifestyle of its citizens. Your guide shares captivating tales of gladiatorial games, political intrigue, and the baths’ role in Roman society.
Santo Stefano Rotondo
Leaving the bustling streets and driving along the Aurelian Walls, you’ll stop at Santo Stefano Rotondo, a rare circular church built in the 5th century. Dedicated to the first Christian martyr, St. Stephen (Santo Stefano), this church features frescoes depicting the gruesome sacrifices of early Christians. As you explore the inside of the church, your guide provides insights into its architectural significance and the early days of Christianity in Rome.
Domine Quo Vadis Church
Next, you’ll pause at the Domine Quo Vadis Church, located along the Appian Way. According to legend, this is where St. Peter encountered Christ while fleeing persecution. The church’s modest yet profound ambiance invites a moment of reflection as your guide recounts the story of Peter’s fateful decision to return to Rome and face martyrdom.
Appian Way
Your journey continues to the historic Appian Way, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most prestigious areas in modern Rome. Once the main road connecting Rome to its vast empire, the cobblestones of the Appian Way whisper tales of ancient conquests and cultural exchange. As you admire the Catacombs of San Callisto, Villa di Massenzio, and Cecilia Metella’s Tomb, from the outside, your guide highlights its profound history and strategic importance, in addition to the serene beauty of its surroundings.
Garbatella District and Food Stops
Next, you’ll head towards the Garbatella district, famous for its romantic corners and charming architecture. Founded in the 1920s to provide affordable housing for workers, this neighborhood has a rich history and a unique atmosphere. Here, you’ll stop at one of the local’s favorite spots, to enjoy a selection of local cheeses, cured meats, and other delicacies. Afterward, you’ll visit a local pastry shop, where you’ll enjoy a selection of traditional pastries, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this renowned culinary center.
Return to Piazzale Ostiense
After three unforgettable hours filled with history, flavors, and unique perspectives, your driver and guide will take you back to Piazzale Ostiense, where your adventure began.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
1 total reviews
Leave a reviewGotta love the Appian Way!
Gloria Gonzalez
This tour was an absolute highlight of our trip! Riding through the Appian Way in a vintage Ape Calessino was such a fun and unique experience. Our guide was fantastic, sharing fascinating stories about ancient Rome while we enjoyed the scenic ride. The food stops were a perfect touch—authentic, delicious, and a great way to experience local flavors. If you’re looking for something different and memorable in Rome, this tour is a must!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to meet?
You will meet your driver in Piazzale Ostiense. Your tour will end at the same location in Piazzale Ostiense.
What to bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera for the incredible sights you’ll encounter. A hat and sunscreen are recommended, especially in warm weather.
Is there any chance my tour might be canceled?
On the rare occasion this happens, we will let you know immediately and work together on a refund or on rescheduling the tour.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
This tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Rome.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
If you have any doubts about your mobility, please let us know in advance and we will do our best to accommodate you. This tour is a private one, so it can be adapted to your needs, however it still requires the ability to climb and descend the ape calessino.
What happens if it rains?
We run our tours rain or shine. If the weather is extremely bad and the tour cannot run, we will inform you immediately and work together to reschedule or refund.
How comprehensive are the Appian Way and historical stops?
The Appian Way tour offers a scenic and historical experience, but it is not a fully guided historical experience like some other tours. Your driver will share interesting facts about the areas visited.
Is lunch or dinner included in the price of the tour?
A complete meal is not included, but two food stops to taste local pastries, cold cuts and cheese are planned during the tour where you’ll enjoy traditional Roman delicacies.
What if I have food allergies, intolerances, or other dietary requirements?
Please contact us in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs during the food stops.
How many people can fit in the Ape Calessino?
The vintage Piaggio Ape Calessino can accommodate a maximum of 5 people per vehicle.
Can I bring my kids?
Unfortunately, this tour is only available for adults aged 18 and above.
Does this tour include a guide?
There is no official tour guide, but your friendly driver will speak English and provide commentary about the attractions along the route. They are not certified guides but will share interesting facts about the stops.
Do we enter any of the monuments during the tour?
This tour only includes entry to Santo Stefano Rotondo, if open on the day of your tour.
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