• Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) - The Appian Way was a vital road for the Roman Empire, linking Rome to its farthest settlements. Initially constructed by Appius Claudius Caecus, the then-censor of Rome, it connected Rome to Capua near Naples. Eventually, it stretched over 300 miles to Brindisi, Puglia on the Adriatic Coast, making it the widest and longest road of its time. Known as the “Queen of Roads,” its construction was a remarkable achievement, especially since it was built in 312 BC! Even among Rome’s top attractions, the Appian Way is exceptionally well-preserved. It consists of large, flat stones, firmly set in place by centuries of rain, wheels, and footsteps.
• Catacombe San Sebastiano - This cemetery, named after the martyr St. Sebastian, who is interred here, was originally called “ad catacumbas”. According to the most accepted explanation, the name means “near the hollows,” due to the tuff mines in the area. The name later became a general term for all underground Christian cemeteries.

Another ancient name for the cemetery was “Apostolic Memorial” (Memoria Apostolorum). This name comes from the liturgical celebrations dedicated to the Apostles Peter and Paul, which were held here for a limited time in the early centuries.

From the first century, the site was extensively used and built upon. The caves and tunnels of the mines were used for pagan and Christian rectangular wall tombs (loculi), as well as smaller tombs (colombari) for housing urns. At least two residential buildings were constructed above ground, noted for their interior wall painting decorations.

• Parco degli Acquedotti - Parco Archeologico dell’Appia Antica - Situated on the outskirts of Rome, Parco degli Acquedotti is one of the city’s most fascinating parks. One of Rome’s most underexplored outdoor spaces, Parco degli Acquedotti offers a glimpse of the ancient empire’s renowned aqueducts. These structures were built to transport fresh water from the mountains and countryside into the city. Their continued existence today is a testament to this incredible engineering feat. Virtually free of tourists, locals know that this part of Parco dell’Appia Antica is ideal for enjoying Rome’s nearly perfect weather. Just a few miles from Rome’s center, the park contains long stretches of the Aqua Felix, as well as parts of the aqueduct known as Aqua Claudia. The vast meadows, dotted with umbrella pines and intersected by massive ancient ruins, feel otherworldly. The large grassy areas under the aqueducts are filled with picnicking families on weekends, but visitors can also rent a bike to explore the park. The simplest way to enjoy Parco degli Acquedotti is to visit with plenty of time to stroll. Exploring the park on foot is one of the best free activities in Rome throughout the year.
• Terme di Caracalla - Constructed between 212 and 216 under the direction of Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus, better known as Emperor Caracalla, the Baths of Caracalla were among the greatest and most magnificent thermal complexes of ancient times.

Although today only the brick walls and large collapsed vaults remain, the remnants of the Baths of Caracalla still preserve their former splendor.

• Fiume Tevere - The Tiber is one of Italy’s longest rivers, second only to the Po. It stretches about 250 miles and varies between 7 and 20 feet deep. It flows from the Apennines at Mount Fumaiolo through Rome and into the Tyrrhenian Sea at Ostia. Most of Rome is located to the east of the Tiber River. The area to the west, including the island in the Tiber, Insula Tiberina or Insula Sacra, was part of Region XIV of Caesar Augustus’s administrative areas of Rome.
• Trastevere - Trastevere, located just down the Tiber from the Vatican, is a city within a city; an enclave with its own identity where locals have generally met creeping commercialization and ongoing attempts at gentrification with a wonderfully Roman disdain, refusing to let such changes affect the richness of their daily lives.

A strong sense of civic pride thrives among the Medieval maze of piazzas and cobbled vicoli (alleyways). A local friend, native to the area, has even turned his back on supporting the capital’s beloved AS Roma football club and instead spends his weekends cheering for the Trastevere Calcio team (you can find them, if you look hard enough, in the lower tiers of Italian football).

This is not an unwelcoming place. Quite the opposite. Joining in the fun and becoming part of Trastevere’s vibrant backdrop is easy, whether you’re sitting on the steps of Piazza Trilussa or ordering a coffee at one of the area’s many bars.

• Santa Maria in Trastevere - The recent restoration of one of Rome’s oldest churches has revitalized the 12th-century Pietro Cavallini mosaics (including his celebrated Vita della Vergine) and frescoes and marbles of more recent vintage. Domenichino’s gloriously Baroque 16th-century octagonal gold ceiling also houses one of his greatest paintings, L’Assunzione della Vergine (1616-1617). Dating back to at least the third century, the church has a strong claim to being the first official Christian place of worship in the city.
• Colle del Gianicolo - The Janiculum is one of the best spots in Rome for a scenic view of central Rome with its domes and bell towers. Other sights on the Janiculum include the church of San Pietro in Montorio, once thought to be the site of St Peter’s crucifixion; a small shrine known as the Tempietto, designed by Donato Bramante, marks the supposed site of Peter’s death. The Janiculum also features a Baroque fountain built by Pope Paul V in the late 17th century, the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, and several foreign research institutions, including the American Academy in Rome and the Spanish Academy in Rome. The Hill is also home to The American University of Rome, Pontifical Urban University, and Pontifical North American College, as well as the Orto Botanico dell’Università di Roma “La Sapienza” and the Palazzo Montorio, residence of the Ambassadors of Spain.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Local guide
• Private tour
• Catacombs admission fee
• Driver/guide
• Transport by private vehicle

• Food and drinks
• Gratuities

• Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.