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

Travel Flexibly 4.9 / 5 See All 21 Reviews · 3.00h · Rome, Italy

Rome is brimming with popular historic sites, but did you know that just off the main tourist path awaits the lesser-visited Appian Way and the eerie catacombs? That's why we've teamed up with expert local guides, so you can effortlessly glide between storied churches and ancient tombs well away from the crowds. Along the way, head underground for a guided tour of San Callisto catacombs tour and enjoy the more personalized experience this small group experience allows for.

  • Meet your guide in Via Appia Antica 58-60
  • Small group​ experience
  • Appian Way​
  • Cecilia Metella Mausoleum​
  • Circus of Emperor Maxentius​
  • San Callisto Catacombs
  • Your tour will end at the original meeting point

Begin your memorable journey near the heart of Rome, in via Appia Antica, where you'll meet your expert guide in the morning or early afternoon, and board a comfortable golf cart. As you set off along the ancient Appian Way, you'll notice how quickly the city's chaos is replaced by its peaceful atmosphere, and thanks to your knowledgeable guide, you'll immediately be blown away by the many stories and legends this old road holds.

Throughout the tour, you’ll have a chance to marvel at the curious Domine Quo Vadis church, delve into the tale of the miraculous encounter between Christ and Saint Peter, uncover the historical significance of the Circus of Emperor Maxentius, and visit the Tomb of Metella. Plus, to top off the experience, you’ll head below ground for a goose-bump-inducing visit to Rome’s San Callisto Catacombs, which date back to the 2nd century.

Rome's San Callisto Catacombs and Appian Way Golf Cart Tour Description

Your 3-hour tour includes:

  • Comfortable golf cart ride along the Appian Way

  • Entrance fee and guided visit to Rome’s San Callisto Catacombs

  • Visit the mysterious Domine Quo Vadis church and Circus of Emperor Maxentius

  • Uncover the stories behind the Tomb of Metella and Quintili's Villa

  • Expert English-speaking local guide

  • Water bottle

  • Small-group tour to ensure a personalized experience

Welcome to Lesser-Known Rome

Your adventure begins in the morning or early in the afternoon, depending on which departure time you've selected, and after meeting your expert guide and fellow explorers for the day at a local golf rental point located in via Appia Antica, you'll board a comfortable golf cart and set off to the famous Appian Way.

While this storied roadway of ancient Rome sits less than 2 miles (3 km) from the Colosseum, it remains off the main tourist path and offers a more serene experience. Its cobblestones have been trodden by legions, merchants, and historical figures for centuries, and as you glide along the iconic route, your guide will share fascinating stories and facts, bringing the road's rich history to life.

Experience Appian Way’s Iconic Sights

A must-see along the Appian Way is the remarkable Domine Quo Vadis Church. This modest yet historically significant church is famed for the legendary encounter between Saint Peter and Jesus. According to Christian tradition, it was here that Peter, fleeing persecution in Rome, met the risen Christ and asked Him, "Domine, quo vadis?" (Lord, where are you going?). Today, you can witness the stone with the alleged imprints of Christ’s feet, a sight that has inspired pilgrims and travelers for centuries.

Further along the Appian Way, you'll discover the grandeur of the Villa and Circus of Emperor Maxentius. This site was once the heart of a magnificent complex, including a luxurious villa and a massive circus, built by the emperor in the early 4th century. Although the circus was never used to its full potential, its sheer size and layout are still evident today.

Nearby, the perplexing Tomb of Metella stands tall, a mausoleum for Cecilia Metella, whose family was intertwined with the highest echelons of Roman society. Your guide will also lead the way to Quintili's Villa, a sprawling estate that belonged to the Quintili brothers and is known for its luxurious baths and extensive grounds. Here, it's easy to picture the opulence that once defined the lifestyle of Rome's upper crust and the dramatic history that led to its eventual downfall under Emperor Commodus.

Explore the San Callisto Catacombs

Perhaps the most well-known landmark along the Appian Way is the eerie catacombs. These underground burial sites, dating back to the 2nd century, provide a fascinating glimpse into the burial customs of the early Christian and Jewish communities. As you descend the 50 irregular steps, a sense of mystery envelops you, leading into dimly lit passageways lined with tombs. Yet, as your guide enlightens you with insights into the lives and beliefs of those laid to rest here, the mystery will clear, and you'll be left with a well-rounded introduction to this historical gem of Rome.

After your catacombs tour, you’ll tick off any remaining Appian Way stops before being dropped off at the initial meeting point in via Appia Antica. Before departing, remember to ask your guide for local recommendations. Whether you're looking to uncover more of Rome's hidden gems, seeking the best nearby restaurants for a delicious lunch or dinner, or simply curious about other must-visit spots in the city, their insider tips will undoubtedly make the rest of your stay in Rome even better.

What you get with this tour
Passionate English-speaking guide
Transportation by golf cart
Entrance to San Callisto Catacombs
Domine Quo Vadis church
Tomb of Metella, Quintili's Villa and more!
Group size of 6
Guide gratuity
Visit of the Acqueducts
Hotel pick up and drop off
Food and beverages
Tripadvisor Logo

See what people are saying

21 total reviews

Leave a review
4.9/5 (based on 21 reviews)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 stars
Great tour, exceptional tour guide
09 October 2024
J
Reviewed by
John Tomassi

We recently did a small group tour of the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel with Alessia as our guide. She did a fantastic job of narrating, answering all our questions and took the time to remember all ten of our names and where we were from. While it is always packed with tourists, a small group tour is certainly the optimum way to go. After leaving the Sistine Chapel you also have can then go directly in St. Peter’s Basilica,

30 September 2024
R
Reviewed by
Rosemary Howe

Sarah was the BEST tour guide we had during out time in Rome. Punctual, clear in her English , history knowledge and a great sense of humour. The tour itself in the ‘golf cart’ was wonderful . Even though there were very many people out walking and biking the Appian Way it was not for us and we saw much more in the cart as we could go further. The catacombs were stunning .

Tour of Catacombs and Asian Way
13 September 2024
K
Reviewed by
Karen Boone

This tour was so informative and interesting. Our tour guide, Sarah, was so knowledgeable about Roman history. We learned so much. She was friendly and engaging. We found history coming alive before our eyes, I highly recommend this tour,

show more reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

It's always smart to wear comfortable shoes since you'll be on your feet for a good portion of the tour, and have to navigate in and out of the golf cart numerous times. A good camera and a water bottle are also recommended.

What to bring?

It's always smart to wear comfortable shoes since you'll be on your feet for a good portion of the tour, and have to navigate in and out of the golf cart numerous times. A good camera and a water bottle are also recommended.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No, hotel pickup is not included in this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designed starting point.

Is there any chance this tour will be canceled?

On the rare occasion the tour is canceled, we'll inform you as soon as possible. We will work with you to reschedule your tour when possible or provide a full refund.

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, this tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Rome.

Where does this tour end?

This tour finishes back at the meeting point, in Via Appia Antica 58-60.

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

If you have any doubts about your mobility, please let us know beforehand. Unfortunately, the catacombs are not wheelchair accessible due to architectural barriers and are only reachable by descending 50 irregular steps.

What happens if it rains?

We run our Rome's Catacombs and Appian Way Golf Cart tour rain or shine. If the weather is extremely bad and we cannot proceed with the tour, we'll let you know as soon as possible.

Is there a dress code for this Catacombs and Appian Way Golf Cart tour?

There is no dress code for this tour, but we recommend comfortable and athletic clothing. Keep in mind that the temperature inside the catacombs is 61ºF (16ºC), so you may want to pack extra layers.

How comprehensive is the golf cart tour portion of this tour?

In the spirit of seeing as much of Rome’s Appian Way as possible, we will not be stopping at every site. You'll still get to admire the Domine Quo Vadis church, enter the catacombs, admire the Villa and Circus of the Emperor, the Tomb of Metella, and more, from the outside.

Is breakfast or lunch included in the price of the tour?

No, food is not included in the price of this tour, and we recommend enjoying breakfast or lunch before joining. Your guide will be happy to recommend one of their favorite restaurants for after the tour.

Are drinks included in the price of the tour?

A small bottle of water per person is included in the price of this tour, but all other drinks will need to be purchased. Our guides are also happy to recommend a good spot to grab a drink after the tour.

Can I bring my kids, and do I have to pay for them?

Yes, everyone is welcome on this Rome's Catacombs and Appian Way Golf Cart tour. We also offer a discounted rate for those aged 12 years and longer.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Hotel pickup is not included in this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designed meeting point.

Does this tour include a visit of the Acqueducts?

No, this tour doesn't include a visit to the Acqueducts.

Start From: $108.30

available days discounted days

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

Reserve Now $108.30 / per person
$108.30 / per person
You may also like
Skip the Line

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Ticket

Entry Ticket

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets

Skip the line and gain quicker access to the Vatican so you can explore at your leisure

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Rome Catacombs Tour and Capuchin Crypts with Transportation

Skip the line and explore a creepy underground world of Roman tombs and crypts with an expert guide

Skip the Line

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

Skip the Line

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

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!

Guided Tour

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

Day Trip

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

Skip the Line

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

Exclusive Access

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

Skip the Line

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!

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour

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

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 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

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!

Semi-Private Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

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

Climb the Dome

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

New tour

New tour

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

New Tour

New Tour

Rome Sightseeing Tour by Golf Cart

Whiz through Rome to see the Colosseum, Vatican, Roman Forum, Oppian Hill, Tiber Island, and more!

Skip the Line

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

New Tour

New Tour

Rome Vintage Fiat 500 Sightseeing Tour

Cruise around in style as you explore the Eternal City’s top landmarks, sights, and attractions!

Tipsy Roman Cooking Class: Spritz & Pasta

Tipsy Roman Cooking Class: Spritz & Pasta

Join a small group near Termini station to master an Italian classic while enjoying local cocktails!

New Tour

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

New Tour

New Tour

Skip-the-Line Pantheon Express Guided Tour in Rome

In one hour, discover the storied dome, Oculus, and tombs of Rome’s ancient temple with your guide!

Amalfi Coast from Rome ​

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

Guided Tour

Guided Tour

Half Day Electric Bike Tour of Rome

Pedal past the Colosseum, Piazza Navona, and up Capitoline Hill in the peaceful morning

Rome's Appian Way, Aqueduct Park, and Catacombs by E-Bike

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!

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Borghese Gallery Tour

Admire stunning Baroque art most miss like Bernini's Rape of Proserpina & Apollo and Daphne

Private Tour

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

New Tour

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

Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius from Rome ​

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

Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Full Day Tour from Rome

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

New Tour

Traditional Roman Cooking Class in Jewish Ghetto

Learn how to make pasta, seasonal vegetables, and a traditional dessert in a charming neighborhood

Cooking Class

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!

Sommelier-Led Food & Wine Tour in Rome at Sunset

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

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

Borghese Gallery Skip the Line

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

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

Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill Access Plus Audio Guide

Take in Rome’s magnificent ancient wonders at your own pace

New Tour

New Tour

Testaccio Small Group Food Tour

Sip an espresso, indulge in authentic Italian pasta and wine, and explore a local Roman Market

New Tour

New Tour

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

New Tour

Authentic Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in Rome

Embark on an Italian culinary adventure in a 17th-century palace near Piazza Navona!

New Tour

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!)

New Tour

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

Meet your guide at Cafè Piramide​

Meet your guide at Cafè Piramide​

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

New Tour

New Tour

Trastevere Food Tour and Pasta Making Class

Sample classic Roman delicacies and learn how to make fettuccine from scratch!

New Tour

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

Skip the Line

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 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!

Skip the Line

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

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

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

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Catacombs Private Tour in Rome

Discover the mysterious Roman Catacombs, Capuchin Crypts, and Appian Way on an personal private tour

Private Tour

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

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

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

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

Skip the Line

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

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

Transportation Included

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!

Private Tour

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

Private Tour

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

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!

Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence

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

Private Tour

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

Caravaggio's Masterpieces

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

New Tour

Rome Evening Tour by Tuk Tuk

Journey from the Colosseum to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain with a private driver-guide

New Tour

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!

2-Hour Tour by Segway​

2-Hour Tour by Segway​

Segway Tour of Imperial Rome

Admire the Colosseum, Circus Maximus and more, during a guided 2-hour journey in a Small Group

Best Squares of Rome by Segway

Best Squares of Rome by Segway

Segway Tour of Baroque Rome in a Small Group

Zip to the Pantheon, Piazza Venezia, theTrevi Fountain, and more of ancient Rome’s treasures!

New Tour

New Tour

Rome by Vespa Small Group Driving Tour

Join an intimate Vespa convoy and scoot past the Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona

Guided Buggy Tour of Rome ​

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!

New Tour

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!

Meet your guide at Piazza Barberini​

Meet your guide at Piazza Barberini​

Golf Cart Tour of Rome with Pizza and Gelato Dinner

Indulge in authentic Italian pizza, savor gelato, and whizz between Pantheon, Trastevere and more

Self-Drive Rome Sightseeing Tour by Electric Car

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

Full Day Tour from Rome to Ponza Island with Boat Tour and Lunch

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

Borghese Gallery "Story Tellers" Small Group Tour
Up to 10% off

Borghese Gallery "Story Tellers" Small Group Tour

Explore Rome’s Baroque Masterpieces with Expert Guides and Skip-the-Line Access