Nestled just outside the bustling city of Rome, the Ostia Antica Archaeological Park offers visitors a chance to step back in time. With a ticket costing 265 SEK, you’ll uncover the well-preserved ruins, frescoes, and mosaics that provide a glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Romans. An audio guide enhances the experience, sharing insights into the site’s architectural achievements. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, Ostia Antica promises a fascinating exploration of a bygone era.
Key Points

- Ostia Antica Archaeological Park offers admission tickets priced at SEK 265 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The integrated admission grants one-time access to all sites and museums in the park and includes a digital audioguide for enhanced exploration.
- The well-preserved ancient Roman city of Ostia Antica showcases intricate mosaics, frescoes, and architectural achievements, providing a glimpse into daily life in the Roman Empire.
- Visitors can explore the expansive site at their own pace, with an all-day visit recommended to fully experience the ancient city.
- The site features uneven paths, requiring caution and comfortable footwear, and has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 124 reviews.
Ticket Information and Pricing

The ticket to Ostia Antica Archaeological Park costs SEK 265 per person.
It includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The ticket is an integrated admission valid for 8 days from the first activation.
It grants one-time access to all sites and museums in the park, including Ostia Antica, the Castle of Julius II, the Museum of Ships in Fiumicino, the Imperial Ports of Claudius and Trajan, and the Necropolis of Porto on Isola Sacra.
Plus, visitors receive a digital audioguide to enhance their exploration of the ancient Roman city.
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Experience Overview

Visitors can explore the ancient Roman city of Ostia Antica, known for its well-preserved buildings, frescoses, and mosaics. The integrated admission ticket allows them to wander through the streets, apartments, and villas once home to ancient Romans at their own pace.
Explore the ancient Roman city of Ostia Antica, where well-preserved buildings, frescoes, and mosaics await at your own pace.
Visitors can discover the archaeological park and its unique features:
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Turn digital photos into postcards with the "postcard" feature
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Explore the ruins and gain insight into ancient Roman life
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Use the digital audioguide to learn more about the historical context
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Expect an all-day visit to fully experience the expansive site
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Prepare for uneven paths throughout the archaeological park.
Historical Context

Founded in 620 BC by Ancus Marcius, king of Rome, Ostia Antica was the ancient harbor city of Rome.
Over time, the city became an important commercial hub, handling trade and shipping. Eventually, the city was abandoned and its ruins covered in river silt, preserving buildings, frescoes, and mosaics.
Today, the well-preserved remains of Ostia Antica provide an invaluable glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans. Visitors can wander through the streets, apartments, and villas, gaining a unique understanding of Roman civilization and its architectural and cultural achievements.
Visitor Recommendations and Reviews

With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 124 reviews, visitors have highly recommended the Ostia Antica Archaeological Park.
Travelers highlight the site’s well-preserved mosaics, buildings, and insight into ancient Roman life. As one reviewer noted, "Ostia Antica stands side by side with the Colosseum."
Visitors recommend:
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Allotting a full day to explore the expansive site
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Preparing for uneven paths by wearing comfortable shoes
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Utilizing the provided audioguide to enhance the experience
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Taking advantage of the unique postcard feature
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Being awestruck by the remarkably preserved ancient city.
Practical Information for Visitors
To visit the Ostia Antica Archaeological Park, visitors can exchange their voucher at the site’s ticket office.
They’ll need to bring their passport or ID card, wear comfortable shoes, and have a charged smartphone for the included digital audioguide.
The paths within the park are uneven, so visitors should exercise caution.
Those unfamiliar with the site’s history and significance may want to consider a guide or the audioguide to enhance their understanding and experience of this ancient Roman city.
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Exploring the Preserved City of Ostia Antica

Situated just 30 kilometers from Rome, the ancient Roman city of Ostia Antica offers visitors a unique glimpse into the daily lives of their ancient counterparts.
This remarkably well-preserved archaeological site showcases:
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Intricate mosaics and frescoes decorating the floors and walls of ancient buildings
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Bustling commercial centers and residential neighborhoods that provide insight into urban planning and architecture
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Remnants of ancient temples, theaters, and baths that illuminate the vibrant social and cultural life of Ostia
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Ample opportunities for exploration and discovery as visitors wander through the winding streets and ancient structures
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An immersive experience that transports visitors back in time to the heyday of the Roman Empire.
Discovering Ancient Roman Life Through Mosaics and Frescoes

Mosaics and frescoes found throughout the ancient city of Ostia Antica provide a captivating glimpse into the daily lives and cultural vibrance of its Roman inhabitants. These stunning artworks adorn the floors, walls, and ceilings of Ostia’s well-preserved buildings, offering a window into the past.
| Mosaic Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Bathhouse Mosaics | Detailed designs depicting marine life and mythological figures |
| Domus Mosaics | Intricate geometric patterns and figurative scenes in private villas |
| Macellum Mosaics | Colorful fish and seafood motifs in the ancient marketplace |
| Thermopolium Mosaics | Culinary-themed mosaics in the ancient fast-food restaurant |
| Necropolis Mosaics | Funerary-related mosaics found in the ancient cemetery |
These remarkably intact artworks immerse visitors in the rich cultural fabric of Ostia Antica’s Roman community.
Customizing Your Visit With the Audioguide

Visitors to Ostia Antica can further enhance their exploration of the ancient Roman city through the included digital audioguide.
The audioguide offers:
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Detailed commentary on the site’s key landmarks and features
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Insider stories and historical context to bring the ruins to life
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Flexibility to explore at your own pace and focus on areas of interest
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Multilingual options to cater to diverse visitors
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Postcard feature that allows users to turn digital photos into physical postcards
The audioguide’s rich content and personalized experience make it an invaluable tool for making the most of a visit to Ostia Antica.
Common Questions

Can I Visit the Sites Individually or Do I Have to Visit All?
The integrated admission ticket allows visitors to explore the sites individually or visit all of them. They can choose which areas to focus on and how to pace their exploration during the 8-day validity period.
How Much Time Is Recommended to Fully Explore the Archaeological Park?
The recommended time to fully explore the archaeological park is around 4-5 hours. This allows visitors to wander through the well-preserved ancient Roman city at their own pace and see the key highlights, such as the buildings, frescoes, and mosaics.
Are There Any Restrictions or Dress Code for Visiting the Sites?
There are no specific dress code requirements, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes as the paths are uneven. Bringing a charged smartphone and water is also recommended for the on-site experience.
Can I Purchase Food and Drinks On-Site or Should I Bring My Own?
You can purchase food and drinks on-site at the cafes and restaurants located within the Ostia Antica Archaeological Park. Alternatively, you can bring your own snacks and beverages to enjoy during your visit.
Is the Audioguide Available in Multiple Languages?
The audioguide is available in multiple languages, allowing visitors to explore Ostia Antica at their own pace while learning about the site’s history and highlights in their preferred language.
The Sum Up
Ostia Antica’s well-preserved ruins offer a glimpse into ancient Roman life. The comprehensive ticket and audioguide enhance the experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s architectural marvels and discover its daily activities through mosaics and frescoes. With ample time to wander at one’s own pace, the Ostia Antica Archaeological Park provides an immersive journey into Rome’s storied past.
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