Catacombs of Rome – 10 Best Tours 2024

Catacombs of Rome – Thursday May 16, 2024

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Catacombs Rome – What makes these catacombs so special and how you can visit them on a guided tour.

In the heart of Rome, you can experience one of the most surreal places that contain centuries of history and ancient stories. Come and explore the infinity of underground tunnels that are the catacombs of Rome.

Going as far back as the 2nd century, the Rome catacombs were finished in the 5th century, where the Jews and first Christians of Rome were buried and rediscovered in the 1500s.

They have become incredibly famous over the years for the Romans and tourists worldwide, known as one of the oldest burial grounds that the public can witness today.

Walk through this ancient hidden labyrinth that runs for miles beneath the city – the Catacombs of Rome. Remember to wear closed-toed shoes if you have them and bring a light jacket or sweater; the catacombs stay at about 60F/16C year-round so that they can seem quite chilly in the summer!

Catacombs Rome – 10 Best Rome Catacombs Tours 2022

Here you will find 10 of the best Rome catacombs tours, offering a range of activities and different locations.

All are ranging from a quick afternoon tour to a full action-packed day! Some will include other big highlights focusing on the history and ancient Roman times.

Check these catacomb tours of Rome out to see which one is for you!

Catacombs Rome – 10 Best Rome Catacombs Tours – In Detail

1. Catacombs of Rome: Bus Tour with Capuchin Crypt

Departure: Meet at 2.15 pm in the center of Piazza Barberini by the Triton fountain.

Duration: Around 3 – 4 hours.

Includes: ‘The Bone Church of Rome’ – Capuchin Crypt, and access to the catacombs of Rome.

Featuring: Artifacts at the Capuchin Museum and a painting from the ancient Italian painter Caravaggio.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

If you’re looking for a day with history and fascinating stories about this famous location in Rome, this catacomb tour in Rome will provide you with everything you need to know.

Capuchin Crypt is full of sinister secrets from the past, also known as ‘The Bone Church of Rome.’ One of the most historical landmarks in the city and a must-see.

Capuchin Crypt is a big highlight while visiting the city, which puts it on our list of best catacombs in Rome.

It lies beneath the church of Santa Maria and contains hundreds of skeletons from monks that are arranged on the ceilings and walls.

The guides will reveal the mysteries and legends of the Capuchin Crypt – you can see how passionate they are about this important historical marvel.

For more information and full tour details, Check Tour Availability & Price

2. Ancient Appian Way: Electric Bike Tour with Catacombs

Departure: TopBike Rental & Tours shop of Via Labicana.

Duration: 6 hours.

Includes: A 27km e-bike ride through ancient Appian Way, with lunch at the halfway point.

Featuring: See the impressive, preserved Roman Aqueducts in the beautiful countryside.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

Get a little bit of everything in this Rome catacombs tour – adventure, history, and countryside all within the capital of Italy.

This makes it one of the best catacombs tours of Rome because of the unique, interesting locations they have to show off – great for a group looking for a fun-filled day!

Enjoy the fresh air while riding the beautiful paths of Appian Way on the e-bikes – see the Baths of Caracalla, Aurelian Walls, Circus of Maxentius, and of course, the iconic Catacombs of St. Callixtus.

St. Callixtus catacombs of Rome are considered one of the most important in the labyrinth of tunnels – with galleries that stretch as far as 12 miles or 19 kilometers, more than 66 feet or 20 meters deep! You can’t begin to imagine the eerie atmosphere you can experience in this place.

The Roman Aqueducts also make it on this impressive catacombs tour of Rome, providing water to the cities and towns within the Empire.

For more information and full tour, details Check Tour Availability & Price

3. Catacomb of St. Callixtus and Appian Way: Guided Tour

Departure: Meet at the bus stop at Via Cavour 224 (Cavour’s closest metro station).

Duration: 3 hours.

Includes: The Catacombs of St. Callixtus, Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella and Appian Way!

Featuring: Also see the famous Roman Aqueducts and some stunning Christian art.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

Opt for a tour, part by bus, part by foot. This catacomb tour of Rome will show you some ultimate highlights in the historical world.

Stroll through the beautiful aqueducts and Appian Way of Rome – one of the city’s most important and famous roads, as it connected the center with distant neighborhoods for the Roman Empire.

Visit another iconic landmark of Rome – the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, built between 20-30 B.C. in honor of the daughter of a Roman Consul.

One of the best catacombs of Rome is also featured in this tour. St. Callixtus will provide more tales from the past and the most surreal experience in the dark and sinister tunnels.

For more information and full tour, details Check Tour Availability & Price

4. Rome: Catacombs & Crypts Tour with Roman Aqueducts

Departure: Meet at Piazza Barberini by the Triton fountain.

Duration: 3 hours.

Includes: The best catacombs of Rome and the famous ‘Bone Chapel’ – Capuchin Crypt.

Featuring: Learn about the impressive Roman Aqueducts – an all-time favorite landmark to see in Rome.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

This small-group tour will give you one of the best historical experiences in the catacombs of Rome.

It also features some of the most important landmarks in the city and excellent guides that will leave you wanting more time in these surreal catacombs.

They will show you around the catacombs of Rome, where hundreds of early Christians were buried many centuries ago, and tell you all the exciting stories that lie within these dark walls.

The Capuchin Crypts contain skeletons of around 3,700 friars – some of these being mummified. Not something you get to see every day!

This amazing Rome catacomb tour will then finish off in the countryside to see the marvelous Roman Aqueducts, where you can hear about the detailed planning put into these over many years.

For more information and full tour, details Check Tour Availability & Price

5. Crypts, Catacombs & Dark Heart of Rome Supersaver Tour

Departure: Meet at 2:15 pm at Piazza Barberini by the Triton fountain for the first tour, then at 9.00 pm by Church of San Andrea steps for the night tour.

Duration: Full-day 8-hour tour.

Includes: The best catacombs of Rome, the basilica of San Clemente, and Capuchin Crypt’ Bone Chapel’.

Featuring: Experience haunting legends of the famous bridge in Rome where you can hear spooky stories!

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

This one is a combination of two Rome catacomb tours throughout the day!

The first tour will make up the afternoon, where you will see the ancient Roman catacombs and hundreds of burial locations through these dark tunnels.

After seeing the catacombs, the guides will take you to Basilica San Clemente to experience the religion and history behind these beautiful walls. Then head to the famous Capuchin Bone Chapel – filled with thousands of bones from monks that decorate the building.

You will get a break between the two Rome Catacomb tours to grab some food or have a few drinks in the city.

Get ready for the second tour, which is a special, haunting experience on the night of Rome. The guides make it so memorable by telling you many tales from the past that will leave you with a chill!

They will take you to the house of a notorious murderer in ancient Roman times and the iconic haunted bridge in the heart of Rome.

Perfect for all those that get a thrill from listening to scary legends! What a way to spend a night in Rome.

For more information and full tour, details Check Tour Availability & Price

6. Rome: Catacombs & St Clement’s Underground Semi-Private Tour

Departure: Meet at TouriksPoint at Via di San Giovanni.

Duration: 3 hours.

Includes: The catacombs of Rome, the Basilica of St. Clements, and the Mithraic Temple.

Featuring: Experience the Rome catacombs of Domitilla after years of renovation.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

This small-group tour makes it on our list as one of the best Rome catacomb tours for its ancient locations and passionate guides telling their stories throughout.

The Basilica of St. Clements is a spectacular example of medieval architecture found here in Rome. You can take the adventure through its many levels underground and explore its rich history.

Discover the mystery of the Roman Mithraic Temple! A hidden gem within the city that will give you an experience like no other.

Centuries ago, this temple was a place for cults and religious sanctuaries where people would gather to perform various initiations or rituals.

The final highlight of this Rome catacombs tour is seeing the Domitilla catacombs (the oldest within the burial networks). You will see underground burial chambers that tell the stories of their faith.

For more information and full tour, details Check Tour Availability & Price

7. Rome: Catacombs Tour with Transfer

Departure: The meeting point depends on which language you select the tour to be in! (You will get details after the booking)

Duration: 2 – 3 hours.

Includes: VIP transfer in the minivan and all the history of the catacombs of Rome!

Featuring: At the end of the Rome catacombs tour, there is an optional visit to the Trevi underground.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

Focusing solely on exploring the catacombs of Rome, this one is perfect for filling your morning or afternoon delving into the labyrinth of tunnels.

A bonus you will get with this Rome catacombs tour is that you have multiple languages available for all the global tourists coming here! The guides offer it in English, Italian, French, Spanish, and German.

Once you enter the gloomy Rome catacombs, the adventure begins. Hear plenty of fascinating stories about the gallery of cemeteries in front of you, what happened in these tunnels many centuries ago, and why they are so famous today.

You will also get the option if you want to see the Trevi underground. In Rome, you’ve probably heard of the iconic Trevi Fountain.

Lying beneath the Trevi Fountain are many hidden passages and Ruins that date back to the Roman Empire.

A day full of knowledge and history about the best catacombs in Rome.

For more information and full tour, details Check Tour Availability & Price

8. Rome: Capuchin Crypts Skip-the-Line Entrance Tickets

Departure: Meet at Piazza Barberini by the fountain.

Duration: 45 minutes.

Includes: The Capuchin Museum, the Crypt of the Skulls, Crypt of the Pelvises, and Crypt of Resurrection!

Featuring: Get straight access to the Capuchin Museum with these skip-the-line tickets.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

A short Rome catacombs tour for those searching for educational and fun activities in Rome! See the skeletal remains of the 3,7000 Capuchin friars buried here.

Explore the famous Capuchin Museum with these tickets to get you straight access with no fuss when entering. No need to worry about the queues!

If you want a Rome catacombs tour where you can go at your pace and not walk around with a group, this one is for you – feel free to spend as much time as you wish at your preferred location.

The Crypt of Skulls will educate you about the haunting past within these walls from ancient Roman times – hundreds and hundreds of skulls layering the walls are quite the sight here in the Museum.

The Crypt of the Pelvises – says it all in the name! You don’t need to ask anymore.

And the Crypt of Resurrection is a stunning site that features a picture of Lazarus being raised from the dead by Jesus.

For more information and full tour, details Check Tour Availability & Price

9. Rome: Roman Catacombs Semi-Private Tour

Departure: Meet at TouriksPoint at Via di San Giovanni.

Duration: 1 ½ hour.

Includes: Entrance to the catacombs of Rome and the Basilica of Nereus and Achilleus.

Featuring: You will get the option of having a shared or a private catacombs tour of Rome.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

Another great Rome catacombs tour to fill your morning or afternoon!

This one is great if you prefer having more time with the guide for your group (you also get the option of having a shared tour if this isn’t your priority).

The tour will start at Rome’s oldest and largest catacombs – Domitilla, a fascinating wonder that sits 16 meters below the bustling city. One of the best catacombs of Rome.

You will feel like you have traveled back centuries into another world. A feeling that any other place cannot give, like the catacombs of Rome.

People are always excited to hear about the detailed history that will stay in these chambers – from the shift in faiths to the martyrs that happened here.

This is when the guides are essential. The experience isn’t as exciting without them – imagine how much time they have spent in this labyrinth of Rome catacombs!

For more information and full tour, details Check Tour Availability & Price

10. Rome: Official Guided Tour o f the Catacombs of St. Callixtus

10. Rome: Official Guided Tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus

Departure: Meet at the entrance of the Roman catacombs.

Duration: 40 minutes.

Includes: Entrance to the catacombs of St. Callixtus (also known as the Crypt of the Popes) and the Crypt of St. Cecilia.

Featuring: A very affordable Rome catacombs tour that is fully guided throughout the duration.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

A Rome catacombs tour that sits at the cheaper end – but is still incredibly well done with knowledgeable guides and the best attractions within the catacombs of Rome.

This one gets pretty popular because of the great price, so make sure you check online for tickets in advance!

Get your taste of ancient Roman history with this quick tour of St. Callixtus Rome catacombs. Learn how they came into existence and how they were rediscovered years later.

The Crypt of St. Cecilia was known as the popular patron saint of music and was martyred in the 3rd century. A very notable attraction in the best catacombs of Rome.

A unique catacombs tour in Rome to get an insight into the Roman history of Italy’s capital city.

For more information and full tour, details Check Tour Availability & Price

Rome Travel Guide for Your 2024 Vacation in Rome

Few places have as rich a history, architecture, and culture as this sprawling metropolis. Come and see Italy’s historical capital and discover Rome’s ancient wonders.

The Vatican, where Emperors have been found, and amphitheaters remain visible today. Rome is equally modern, with former residential neighborhoods, like Testaccio Monti and Ostiense, now as interesting for tourists for their nightlife, as its classic areas.

Within a day, you could travel from the Roman Empire house to a hipster market – or climb a building into a basement.

Rome cannot help but go over the top, even in nature! With the church dome’s exquisite views, the Giardino Degli Aranci makes it one of the most beautiful places.

This Rome travel guide will give you the best tips before you hop on that plane destined to visit Rome!

Vacation in Rome - Giardino Degli Aranci — Giardino Degli Aranci

Rome – Where is Rome?

Rome is the capital city of Italy and is located in the central-western point of the Italian peninsula.

Italy is a southern European country known for its unique boot shape on the map. There are also surrounding islands of Italy, such as Sicily and Sardinia.

Very close to Italy’s Mediterranean western coast and in the region of Lazio, Rome will guide you to some of the best parts of the country.

Rome is considered a vast city, with a landmass of 1,285km – while the historic center is smaller and most of it is walkable.

Rome – Airports & Entry

Flying from the States

If you’re flying from the States to visit Rome, your journey may vary from 8-12 hours, depending on where you depart. For example, your flight from New York would be closer to 8 hours, but from Los Angeles, it would be closer to 12 hours.

You can find direct flights from New York, Los Angeles, Washington D.C, Chicago, Miami, Boston, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Popular airlines that make these journeys are Delta and American Airlines.

When departing from another state, you may have a connecting flight that will add extra time to your journey, so remember to consider this!

America to Rome will typically cost around $500 round trip but can vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book. I always use websites like Skyscanner and Google flights to get the best prices and search from different locations.

Flying from Europe

If you’re flying within Europe, you can book for as cheap as $20! Airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair are almost always easy to find affordable and direct flights to Rome.

Which Airport

Fiumicino Airport is the largest airport in Rome (officially named Aeroporto Leonardo da Vinci), where a dozen airline operators are available daily.

Ciampino Airport is the second international airport in Rome which is slightly smaller and less common to fly into.

Catch a Train

There are also high-speed trains from many European locations, such as Paris, Madrid, Amsterdam, and other cities.

Bear in mind sometimes it is cheaper to get a flight in Europe if you’re not taking checked luggage. But it’s a good idea to compare prices with trains, so check them out if you’re not too far!

Rome – Currency

Italy uses the euro (€), which replaced the Italian’ lira’ in 2002.

$1 US Dollar will cost EUR 0.86, and £1 British Sterling will cost EUR 1.18.

In 2010 €1 would have cost approximately $1.35 US dollars. Whereas this year, €1 costs approximately $1.22 US dollars.

Cash or Card

The euro can be found all over Rome, now the city’s official currency. However, there may be minor exceptions for other currencies when you visit Rome.

Most people tend to pay for things by card in Rome; it is quite uncommon for places not to accept cards now. So you don’t have to worry about carrying too much cash! Don’t get caught with a declined card – make sure to call your credit card company before traveling, so they know where you will be.

Rome – History

Vacation in Rome - Ancient Rome — Ancient Rome

Ancient Rome Times

When you visit Rome, you will discover so much beautiful history that comes with this city. Full of ancient stories about the Roman Empire and many legends – you will feel like you have traveled back years in Rome.

Officially founded in 753 BC in the small town by River Tiber, Rome was named after the twin brothers Romulus and Remus, that discovered the land.

Rome Today

Rome is commonly known as the ‘Eternal City,’ this name making its way worldwide. The reason behind this is that in ancient years, the Romans believed no matter how many times the empire would fall, the city of Rome would live forever.

Home to over 4.3 million residents today, Rome has become the third most populous city within the EU.

Ever Heard of Vatican City

While making your Rome travel guide to visit Rome, you have probably heard of Vatican City – the smallest state in Europe! It’s an independent city within Rome that claims about 1,000 residents. The impressive history and culture you can experience here are amazing.

Get your daily dose of history!

So if you’re a history buff and want to hear all the intriguing stories and myths behind this beautiful city, make sure you spend some time exploring the museums and talking to the locals – then you will be able to hear all about the past lives that once walked these streets.

Vacation in Rome - Vatican City — Vatican City

Rome – People & Culture

Rome is full of beautiful, rich traditions and culture in the heart of Italy! It captivates those looking for fashion, art, architecture, religion, languages, and food!

The Italians do know how to live life on the good side here in Rome

The Language of Love

Modern Romans speak Italian, widely known as the language of love and romance. I could listen to them speak in their beautiful language all day! It is genuinely heartwarming and full of joy whenever you listen to them, and they always put so much passion and love into telling a story.

Do People Speak English in Rome

There are also many English speakers in Rome. With such a high amount of tourism and Europeans coming to relocate to the capital city, there has become a high mixture of languages over the years.

In the very touristy areas of Rome, you will probably find many people speaking English, so it’s pretty easy to converse with the public. If not, don’t worry! The locals here are super friendly and willing to help you out if you can’t speak Italian; patience and time are all needed to get the right advice.

Modern Roman Culture

Rome perfectly combines their rich historical past with its diverse modern culture. You can wander to one part of Rome to find iconic historical monuments like the Colosseum or the Trevi Fountain.

Then head to another neighborhood where you will find all the modern buildings and art created in the last years. The variety you can see here encaptures the extensive culture within Rome and makes it such a wonderful place!

Rome – Food

Onto my favorite part of Rome: the food!

Ah, Italian cuisine; what would life be without you? Can you imagine going without trying these fantastic, classic Italian dishes? The best pizzas, pasta, lasagna, and tiramisu you can find!

Rome’s food is a big part of people’s trips here, becoming one of the most significant factors people miss when they leave!

It’s not surprising with the heart and soul put into their excellent food. Make sure you have plenty of days to spend in Rome to try as many types of dishes as possible!

Our Rome travel guide has put together some of the most iconic dishes you must try at least once in your life.

Vacation in Rome - Neopolitan Pizza — Neopolitan Pizza

Pizza, Pizza, Pizzaaaa!

Of course, we will start the list with an Italian pizza! Are you going to come to the country’s capital and not try their classic pizzas?

One of the best activities to take yourself out for dinner and enjoy one of their delicious pizzas! Whether it’s classic Neopolitan or a Roman-style pizza, you can never go wrong.

The Italian people always recommend ordering a pizza with fewer toppings – it is not as enjoyable when it comes covered in over-the-top ingredients that take away the authentic taste of a pizza. A tip to remember!

Classic Lasagna

A hearty Italian meal is a typically flat pasta, ragu (or meat), cheese, and tomatoes. All baked together in the oven to form this tasty meal!

Many of you probably already had lasagna, but trust me, you haven’t had an authentic one until you have one in Rome!

The Romans take great pride in making some of the world’s best lasagnas in multiple restaurants throughout the city.

Vacation in Rome - Risotto Alla Milanese — Risotto Alla Milanese

Hearty Risotto

Risotto Alla Milanese you will see this everywhere in Rome restaurants. The most famous type of risotto to go for, the rice, is made with saffron-flavored broth and white wine, then finished with parmesan cheese.

Another iconic Roman dish that will satisfy your taste palette!

Roman Polenta

Made with corn, butter, pepper, and parmesan, this comforting meal is very popular with the locals.

Experience some authentic Roman culture by tasting their polenta with meat or sauce. Definitely one to try in the colder months!

Spaghetti Carbonara

One of the most popular pasta dishes of today. Once you’ve tried this iconic pasta meal in Rome – you won’t want to eat this anywhere else but here!

Nothing beats the flavors of a Roman carbonara. It has become a specialty within the capital city, so everyone is always quick to take up this meal.

All you need is an expert Italian chef with some eggs, spaghetti, cheese, guanciale, and pepper, and there you have it, the best carbonara you will ever eat!

Fluffy Focaccia

An all-time favorite of mine. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can enjoy this Italian bread any time of the day paired with pretty much anything!

Imagine standing outside the bakery first thing in the morning, waiting to have your coffee and fresh out-the-oven focaccia bread for breakfast. It sounds like a good start to the day, right?

This thick pizza dough, made with olive oil and salt and then finished with rosemary and olives, will be right around the corner from you in Rome’s multiple bakeries.

Rome – Weather

What temperature to expect?

Rome enjoys a cool and drier climate with average temperatures of 50 – 60F throughout the winter months of November to March.

These temperatures will rise to around 70 – 80F in the summer months, making it the busier year for tourists with the warmer weather.

Winter in Rome?

If you don’t mind the cooler weather in winter, Rome is charming during Christmas time. The markets, lights, and festivities are magical this time of year.

You might see some showers; the wettest month is usually December. So grab an umbrella and a warm coat!

Winter in Rome

Rome – Travel Tips & Tourism

Peak Times in Rome

June, July, and August are the highest peak season for Rome, the crowds becoming heavy and prices soaring.

October to April is the low season, receiving slightly fewer tourists and prices falling.

In the remaining months of May and September, you will see the crowds start to get busy and fall again just as we enter and leave the high season.

We recommend going in either April to May or September to October to avoid these busy crowds and get better deals.

Where are Rome’s Visitors From

Being in Southern Europe, most of Rome’s visitors are from its neighboring countries such as France, Germany, and Spain. It is relatively easy to get to Rome from here, so expect lots of Europeans!

The British and Americans are also big fans of the capital city of Italy, bringing in a large number of tourists each year.

Rome – How to Get Around Rome

Hop on the Rome Metro

The city has two completed metro routes (and a third metro line was delayed numerous times due to excavations).

The metro in Rome runs regularly and is pretty reliable, starting at 5:30 am and closing at 11:30 pm every day. With the exclusion of Fridays and Saturdays, running slightly later until 1:30 am for those heading out for the night.

The metro network covers most of the city center, but there is no coverage of the historic center.

Getting From the Airport to City Center

You can get a nonstop express train connecting Leonardo da Vinci Airport to the city center of Rome (Rome Termini Station). They leave every half an hour, and it takes around 30 minutes to get there.

The cheaper option is to get the shuttle bus to Rome Termini Station – which runs every half an hour and takes roughly 40 minutes to arrive.

The shuttle bus is also available if you’re coming from Ciampino Airport.

Get the Rome Pass

Public transport is one of the best ways to experience the city. Try the Rome Pass for a complete 72-hour stay in the city.

You will receive unlimited use of public transportation within the city. The Roma Pass also provides discounts on performances and exhibitions and access to two museums or monuments on the card.

Why Not Walk Around the City

The most romantic way to discover the hidden corners of Rome is to travel by foot. This way you get to find all the beautiful streets you may not stumble across if you take public transport.

It’s quite easy to have a delightful walk within a reasonable distance. This is an excellent option if it’s within the historic center as it’s not too big!

Get the Train

Roma Termini is among the biggest railway stations in the country. It is ideally situated on high-speed trains convenient for quick access to Naples, Florence, Milan, and many more.

Roma Termini station

If you’re going to Vatican City, it’s probably easiest to reach it from Roma Termini – trains and buses regularly go from here.

The trains will always run regularly at a decent price – a great option when considering your mode of transport outside the city.

Hail a Taxi

Taxis are plentiful, with stands near significant sites, and you can also use the free NOW hailing app. Super quick and easy!

Fixed rates are in place for trips to the airports Ciampino and Fiumicino, with prices marking the entrance door of the taxi. So this will always be the more expensive option.

Rome Buses

Buses are also available, but these are not recommended as often because of crowded conditions and heavy traffic outside. The city has a good bus system, but not always in places beyond the city walls. So maybe leave this as a last resort!

Rent a Car

Renting a car is only a good option if you know you want to go far out and not accessible by public transport.

With the heavy traffic and impatient drivers, having a car in the city is virtually impossible. The urban area traffic is chaotic in many ways, and drivers can be insane!

So please remember this when renting a car or driving yourself to Rome – there will be long queues!

Rome – Key Landmarks

In our Rome travel guide, we have put together the best landmarks within the city so you can make the most of your time here and get inspired by what to see!

Religious Structures in Rome

There are four papally-ordained basilica and seven pilgrimage buildings in Rome. No other city in the world does such an important job representing Catholic Faith.

The four major basilicas of Rome

St. Peter’s Basilica – seen as the most important religious building (and most famous) in the Catholic faith, is the Church of the Pope and is located in Vatican City.

Saint John Lateran – Rome’s oldest church and also belongs to the Vatican. It is referred to as the ‘mother of all churches.’

Santa Maria Maggiore – famous for its impressive bell tower and dedicated to Virgin Mary in Rome, the basilica features a mixture of styles from its redesigns over the years.

St. Paul Outside the Walls – unique to the other basilicas of Rome, it was destroyed and rebuilt the same after a fire in 1823.

Each of the basilicas of Rome can offer such a rich experience in Roman history and culture; you will take away so much knowledge and beauty from these locations, leaving you with a feeling like no other.

You can book your tickets online to visit these religious wonders of Rome. Not only does it teach the religion and history behind these walls, but you can see the art and architecture that was put into these over the years.

The Colosseum

Whenever you search for a Rome Travel Guide, you will always see pictures of The Colosseum. The vast amphitheater is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and therefore remains one the most famous landmarks – receiving over 6 million visitors a year.

The icon of Rome, and always one of the main reasons people come here, is to see this magnificent piece of history.

You can feel and learn so much about the Roman Emperors at this wonder; it is no question why so many come here to see where it all happened over thousands of years.

Seeing The Colosseum in Rome should be on everyone’s bucket list! You can get a guide here to tell you all the exciting stories from ancient times, so make sure you book your tickets to get a good deal.

There is no surprise that The Colosseum gets pretty packed with tourists any time of the year, so pre-booking is always best. And to avoid endless queues of people, we always recommend going as early in the morning as possible.

Explore Vatican City

Visit the Vatican Museums with the famous Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s Frescoes to highlight your Rome trip.

See the stunning art galleries, courtyards, towers, staircases, and chapels within the Museums.

The Renaissance masterpieces and classical sculptures will amaze all those interested in exploring the art world within Rome.

Another great highlight will show you how much rich history and culture are behind this little gem of Vatican City.

Trevi Fountain

One of the most famous fountains globally, and the largest Baroque fountain, beholds the Trevi Fountain of Rome.

It is notorious for seeing plenty of tourists throwing their money into this fountain – becoming a tradition for visiting this magical place. To ensure you make a return visit to this amazing city, take a coin in your right hand and, with your back to the fountain, throw the coin over your left shoulder.

You may not know that the municipality of Rome cleans the fountain and donates the collected money to charities every week. The locals have made such a good cause behind this touristic attraction of Rome.

Other Landmarks

Another main attraction is the Roman Forum – a great historical location that once served the Romans for ritual gatherings.

The Roman Pantheon – is known as the most preserved and influential building of ancient Rome. Marvel at this wonder in the middle of the city while enjoying a coffee at a nearby café in the piazza.

The Spanish Steps – the iconic baroque stairway and meeting place for locals and tourists (an Instagram-worthy photo!).

Giardino Degli Aranci – the Orange Trees Garden! It has it all in the name – full of nature and incredible views.

And Palatine Hill – the oldest part of the city and often named the most famous of Rome’s seven hills.

This list goes on – there are so many magnificent and impressive places within Rome to explore. So if you’re on a time limit, make sure you pick the best ones you would like to see!

Rome Travel Guide for Your 2024 Rome Vacation

That’s Rome and all of its beauties. So much to explore, learn about, and discover in this city of love and romance.

Whether you’re going on a romantic getaway, a solo backpacking trip, away with your friends, or with your family, you will find everything you need to know in this Rome travel guide.

Follow all our best tips and tricks to get your ultimate vacation in the heart of Italy.

It’ll be one to remember … ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.’

Lacey Twiggs

After graduating in the UK, Lacey exchanged cloudy skies for sunny European landscapes. She spent two years enjoying Portugal and Spain’s vibrant cultures and beautiful coastlines, especially the Algarve. Now a teacher in the UK, Lacey still travels widely, sharing her experiences as a travel writer.