Uncover the hidden gems of Rome’s past on the Private Underground Rome and Catacombs Tour. This captivating 3.5-hour journey takes you off the beaten path, offering a rare glimpse into the city’s rich history. Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore ancient sites, witness stunning mosaics, and gain insight into the rituals of early Christians. From the expansive Catacombs of San Domitilla to the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano, this exclusive tour promises an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical tourist trail. What secrets will you uncover beneath the streets of Rome?
- Key Points
- Overview of the Tour
- Catacombs of San Domitilla
- Roman Houses of the Celio
- Basilica Di San Clemente Al Laterano
- Highlights of the Tour
- Tour Inclusions
- Additional Considerations
- Customer Feedback
- The Sum Up
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Key Points

- This private tour explores the underground world of Rome, including the Catacombs of San Domitilla, the largest underground cemetery in the world.
- Visitors will gain insights into the daily life and rituals of ancient Romans by touring the well-preserved Roman Houses of the Celio.
- The tour includes a visit to the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano, which features a 4th-century basilica and a 1st-century Mithraic temple.
- The tour is led by an expert, English-speaking guide and includes skip-the-line access to the key sites.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Overview of the Tour

The Private Underground Rome and Catacombs Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the hidden depths of the Eternal City.
Explore the hidden depths of the Eternal City with the Private Underground Rome and Catacombs Tour.
Priced from $553.83 per person, this 3.5-hour private tour takes visitors on a journey through Rome’s captivating underground world.
Led by an expert, English-speaking guide, the tour includes skip-the-line access to the Catacombs of San Domitilla, the Roman Houses of the Celio, and the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano.
Highlights include marveling at Renaissance masterpieces, exploring a sprawling villa complex, and discovering ancient Roman daily life.
With comfortable shoes recommended, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
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Catacombs of San Domitilla

Starting the tour, visitors will explore the Catacombs of San Domitilla, the largest underground cemetery in the world.
Descending deep beneath the city, they’ll walk the tunnels and marvel at the ancient Christian art decorating the walls. Guides will share the history of this vast burial site, which housed both common citizens and early Christian martyrs.
With over 17 kilometers of tunnels, the Catacombs offer a fascinating glimpse into Rome’s past. Visitors will learn about the rituals and beliefs that shaped this sacred subterranean necropolis, a profound experience hidden beneath the modern city.
Roman Houses of the Celio

After exploring the vast Catacombs of San Domitilla, the tour continues to the Roman Houses of the Celio.
This sprawling villa complex offers a glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Romans. Visitors marvel at the well-preserved mosaics, frescoes, and architecture that showcase the opulence of the upper class.
The guide shares insights into the social and cultural aspects of life in this affluent neighborhood. Visitors walk the ancient streets, imagining the bustling activities that once filled these spaces.
With its remarkable state of preservation, the Roman Houses provide a unique window into the past, allowing travelers to experience a tangible connection to Rome’s rich history.
Basilica Di San Clemente Al Laterano

Leaving the Roman Houses behind, visitors next arrive at the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano. This 12th-century church hides an ancient treasure trove beneath its floors.
Descending into the depths, visitors discover a 4th-century basilica and, below that, a 1st-century Mithraic temple. The entire site offers a glimpse into Rome’s layered history.
Guests marvel at the Renaissance mosaics and frescoes in the upper church, then step back in time as they explore the excavated ruins. The guided tour provides context, enhancing the experience of this remarkable subterranean complex.
With its hidden gems, the basilica offers a unique window into Rome’s storied past.
More Great Tours NearbyHighlights of the Tour

Visitors on this captivating tour are treated to a remarkable exploration of Rome’s underground wonders.
Marvel at the Catacombs of San Domitilla, the largest underground cemetery in the world.
Marvel at the Catacombs of San Domitilla, the largest underground cemetery in the world.
Discover the sprawling villa complex of the Roman Houses on the Celius Hill, offering a glimpse into ancient daily life.
Gasp at the Renaissance masterpieces hidden in the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano, an underground church layered with history.
Throughout the tour, an expert guide shares captivating insights, navigating visitors through iconic sites while providing Skip-the-line access for a seamless experience.
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Tour Inclusions

This tour includes several valuable components to enhance the experience.
An expert, English-speaking guide leads the way, providing insightful commentary. Tickets and reservation fees are all included, allowing seamless access to the sites. Visitors can enjoy skip-the-line entry, avoiding long queues.
For larger groups, headsets are provided for better audio reception. Transportation to and from the meeting point is also covered.
While food and beverages aren’t included, gratuities are optional. Guests should note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the underground nature and steep staircases involved.
Additional Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive underground exploration of Rome, there are a few additional considerations guests should keep in mind. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the steep staircases and uneven terrain. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended to navigate the underground sites comfortably. Guests with mobility concerns should advise the tour operator during booking to ensure the experience meets their needs. Lastly, guests should be aware that some monuments may undergo restoration, potentially causing changes to the itinerary.
| Consideration | Details |
| — | — |
| Wheelchair Accessibility | Not suitable due to steep staircases and uneven terrain |
| Footwear | Comfortable, closed-toe shoes recommended |
| Mobility Concerns | Advise tour operator during booking |
| Potential Changes | Restoration of monuments may alter itinerary |
| Safety | Follow guide’s instructions for navigation and exploration |
Customer Feedback

Guests who’ve experienced this private underground Rome tour have consistently praised the knowledgeable and personable expertise of their guide.
As one reviewer, Michael H. from the United States, noted, the guide Brandon was "knowledgeable, interactive, and personable."
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on a single review, this tour has clearly left a positive impression on those who’ve taken it.
Participants value the guide’s ability to bring the historical sites to life and provide an engaging and informative experience throughout the 3.5-hour journey beneath the streets of Rome.
The Sum Up

This private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Rome’s rich underground history. Guests will explore the Catacombs of San Domitilla, discover ancient Roman houses, and visit the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano, all while enjoying skip-the-line access and seamless transportation. With an expert guide providing insightful commentary, travelers can experience the captivating and little-known aspects of Rome’s past.
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