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!
Looking for an adventurous way to explore Rome? On this e-bike tour, trade in Rome’s vibrant city center for the scenic beauty of the Appian Way. Cruise past historic landmarks, enjoy the tranquility of Parco della Caffarella, and ride along the oldest and most prominent street in all of Rome. Zip past ancient ruins, including the Baths of CaracallaFinally, enjoy a visit to the historic Catacombs of Saint Callixtus and have lunch under the shadow of ancient Roman aqueducts.
- Meeting Point in Via dei SS. Quattro
- Porta San Sebastiano
- Appian Way
- Ninfeo di Egeria
- Tomb of Cecilia Metella
- Catacombs of Saint Callixtus
- Aqueducts Park
- Lunch break or aperitivo
- Ending Point in Via dei SS. Quattro
To spend your day cycling through the breathtaking, Roman countryside, you’ll first need to head to your designated meeting point in via dei SS. Quattro, near the Colosseum. Here, your friendly guide will be waiting to greet you, along with the rest of your group. Since this is a small group tour, you’ll have plenty of time to ask your guide about all the amazing landmarks you pass by throughout the day!
Once you’re all set with your electric bike and helmet, it’s time to hit the road and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Follow your guide through the enchanting city streets of Rome as you cruise by the ancient center, until entering the iconic Appian Way through Porta San Sebastiano.
Soon enough, you’ll be riding along the ancient Appian Way, the oldest street in all of Rome. Cruise through the Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica, passing by breathtaking Roman ruins, mausoleums, and ancient landmarks along the way, such as the Ninfeo di Egria and the Tomb of Cecilia Metella.
For the final part of your tour, you will get to visit the fascinating Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, before stopping in the shadow of the Acquedotto Claudio (Claudius’ Acqueduct) to enjoy a light packed lunch or an aperitivo, depending on the time of your tour.
After snapping a few photos, hop back on your bike and whiz past the ancient Baths of Caracalla on your way back to the city, as you follow your guide back to your original meeting point.
Electric Bike Appian Way Tour with Catacombs visit
Your 5-hour tour includes:
English-speaking guide
Electric bike with helmet
Cycling along ancient Rome’s Appian Way
Guided visit of the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus
Parco degli Acquedotti
Small group experience with no more than 10 people
Packed lunch or aperitivo
Depart from Central Rome
To begin cycling your way through the Italian countryside, meet your friendly tour guide at your designated meeting point right outside the Colosseum. Once you arrive, your guide will set you up with an electric bike and helmet and explain the exciting route that’s in store for you! On this small group tour, you’ll have plenty of personalized attention from your guide, as well as opportunities to ask any questions you have about the sights you pass by.
After strapping on your helmets, it’s time to hit the road! Follow your guide through Rome’s vibrant, urban city streets as you make your way towards the picturesque Italian countryside. As you cruise through the Eternal City, you’ll get to enter the Appian Way through Porta San Sebastiano, that used to be the entrance point to the Southern part of the city.
The Appian Way or Appia Antica is one of the oldest and most significant roads in Rome. Today, the ancient road is lined by Roman aqueducts, historic ruins, and breathtaking mausoleums. As you ride along this awe-inspiring road, your guide will detail more about its historical importance within ancient Rome.
Explore the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus
Soon after exiting Rome’s bustling city center, your guide will lead you to the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, one of the biggest and most prominent catacombs within Rome. Delve into one of the city's most extensive and significant subterranean necropolises, a labyrinth of passageways sprawling over roughly 20 kilometers and originating from the 2nd century BC. Named in honor of Deacon Callixtus I, this sacred site enshrines the remains of more than half a million faithful Christians and is a testament to Rome's rich historical and religious heritage.
Cruise by Circus of Maxentius, Tomb of Cecilia Metella and Baths of Caracalla
After hopping back on your bicycle, you'll encounter the Circus of Maxentius, an ancient chariot racing stadium that was never fully completed. Your guide will share tales of the thrilling races that took place here, providing a glimpse into the entertainment that captivated Roman crowds. Next, you'll approach the Tomb of Cecilia Metella. Your guide will reveal the story of Cecilia Metella, a noblewoman whose memory is preserved within these ancient walls.
As you venture further, the Castrum Caetani, a fortified complex, will come into view. This historical site, with its strategic location, offers a window into the military and defensive strategies of ancient Rome.Next, the Villa dei Quintili will captivate your attention. This luxurious villa, once owned by the Quintilii brothers, is a splendid example of Roman aristocratic living.
Finally, your guide will point out the historic Baths of Caracalla (Terme di Caracalla): once the second-largest public baths in the city, these ancient thermal wonders are believed to have been constructed between AD 212 and 216/217. As you glide by on your bicycle, your guide will unveil the captivating history of these baths, offering insights into their significance during the Roman Empire.
Enjoy Lunch in the Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica
As you zip along the stunning Appian Way, your guide will lead you along the breathtaking Parco degli Acquedotti. Marvel at the many Roman ruins and incredible sites that you pass by, while your guide explains each ancient landmark in detail. Not to worry, there will also be plenty of time to pause for photos before a well-deserved pause for a delightful culinary experience.
Included in the tour is a light lunch featuring a selection of Roman specialties, allowing you to savor the flavors of the region while enjoying the serene surroundings. For those opting for the afternoon tour, an aperitivo will be served instead, offering a taste of Italy's beloved pre-dinner ritual.
This picturesque stop is set within the Holy Wood, cradled by the historic Appia, where the guide will regale you with the romantic love story of Egeria and Numa Pompilio, adding a touch of myth and history to your meal.
Following this enchanting interlude, the tour continues on two wheels through the Parco della Caffarella, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty and historical landmarks that dot this scenic route. The journey concludes at the original starting point, Via dei SS. Quattro, ending your exploration of Rome's rich tapestry of culture, history, and nature.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
2 total reviews
Leave a reviewBiking is fun!
Thomas and Cecelia Nicolosi
My husband and I had a thrilling experience on this bike tour on September 6. Our guide was so helpful. We had only used an electric bike once before but he was patient the entire time. There was only one other couple along (please email me pictures if you see this review, I had left my phone behind) so it was really like a private tour. My husband had a flat tired but help came right away and we were on our way again. It felt great to go on the outskirts of Rome and ride along the paths without any traffic or crowds. Highly recommend this tour if you’re looking to get some exercise and feel guilt free eating gelato after!
Great individualized tour
Leland Blair Nicholson
You will ride along the Appian Way -- something the other Rome tours don't do. The Catacombs are a must-see and this is a great way to get there. The individual attention was great. I would like to recommend softer bike seats for us older people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting and ending point
The tour will start in via dei SS. Quattro, near the Colosseum, and end in the same place.
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?
Unfortunately, as this is a cycling tour, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
What happens if it rains?
We run our cycling tours rain or shine. If it does rain, you will be provided with ponchos. If the weather is extremely bad and the tour cannot run, we will inform you immediately and work on rescheduling or providing a full refund.
Is there any chance my tour might 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.
How comprehensive is the Catacombs portion of this tour?
You will have approximately 30 minutes to learn about the catacombs, making it quite comprehensive. You will see the most important elements of this attraction, and your guide will be by your side to offer detailed information while you explore.
Do the Catacombs ever experience sudden closures?
In case the Catacombs of St. Callixtus are closed for unforeseen reasons, they will be replaced with another catacomb complex or with some more time in other attractions.
Do I need prior experience in riding a bike to join this tour?
Yes, we require all adult participants to be confident on riding a bike.
Is there a weight limit for this tour?
Yes, the e-bikes have a maximum carrying capacity of 120 kg (265 pounds).
Is food included in the price of the tour?
Yes, depending on the time of your tour, you will enjoy a boxed lunch or an aperitivo!
What if I have food allergies or other dietary requirements?
If you have food allergies or other dietary requirements, please let us know in advance and we’ll do our best to accommodate you!
Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?
Kids are welcome on this cycling tour, and children under 25 kg of weight will be accommodated on a trailer bike or on a child seat. Kids aged 6-10 pay a reduced fee only if they are less than 4/7 feet tall (143 cm) because they will have a trailer bike and not a bike alone. Unless, please make sure you select an adult spot for them, and that they feel comfortable riding an electric bike independently.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No hotel pickup is included on this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designated meeting point in central Rome.
Where does this tour end?
This tour ends back at your original meeting point in via dei SS. Quattro, after dropping off your bikes and helmets.