Help

Experience the best of Roman Catacombs

Explore ancient burial tunnels that reveal the hidden and eerie history of early Christianity.
4.3/5
30,663 travellers from around the world love this
Slide 1 of 10, Tourists walking through ancient Roman Catacombs on a guided tour.
Tourists walking through ancient Roman Catacombs on a guided tour.
45 mins
  • Journey underground into Rome’s mysterious Catacombs, an ancient Christian burial site dating back to the 2nd century AD.

  • Explore a maze of tunnels carved deep into volcanic rock, guided by an expert storyteller who brings centuries of history to life.

  • Skip the lines and make the most of your time with a fully guided small-group experience available in multiple languages.

  • Visit either the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (all days except Wednesdays) or Domitilla (only Wednesdays), both among the oldest and most sacred sites in the city.

  • Hear fascinating tales of faith, persecution, and art in these hidden sanctuaries of early Christianity.

More details
  • Journey underground into Rome’s mysterious Catacombs, an ancient Christian burial site dating back to the 2nd century AD.

  • Explore a maze of tunnels carved deep into volcanic rock, guided by an expert storyteller who brings centuries of history to life.

  • Skip the lines and make the most of your time with a fully guided small-group experience available in multiple languages.

  • Visit either the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (all days except Wednesdays) or Domitilla (only Wednesdays), both among the oldest and most sacred sites in the city.

  • Hear fascinating tales of faith, persecution, and art in these hidden sanctuaries of early Christianity.

from
€12
Slide 1 of 8, Crypt of the Capuchin Friars in Rome, featuring walls adorned with human skulls and bones.
Crypt of the Capuchin Friars in Rome, featuring walls adorned with human skulls and bones.
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
1 more
  • Explore the Capuchin Crypt and Museum, home to eerie chapels decorated with the skeletal remains of Capuchin friars dating back centuries.

  • Walk through bone-lined chambers at your own pace with an audio guide explaining the crypt’s symbolism, burial traditions, and religious history.

  • Discover paintings, relics, manuscripts, and sacred artifacts inside the museum before descending into the underground crypt.

  • Choose guided tour options that include Rome’s ancient catacombs with skip-the-line entry and transfers between sites.

  • Upgrade your experience with stops at Bocca della Verità and panoramic drives along the ancient Appian Way.

More details
  • Explore the Capuchin Crypt and Museum, home to eerie chapels decorated with the skeletal remains of Capuchin friars dating back centuries.

  • Walk through bone-lined chambers at your own pace with an audio guide explaining the crypt’s symbolism, burial traditions, and religious history.

  • Discover paintings, relics, manuscripts, and sacred artifacts inside the museum before descending into the underground crypt.

  • Choose guided tour options that include Rome’s ancient catacombs with skip-the-line entry and transfers between sites.

  • Upgrade your experience with stops at Bocca della Verità and panoramic drives along the ancient Appian Way.

from
€11.50
Slide 1 of 8, Visitors exploring Roman catacombs with ancient bones in foreground.
Visitors exploring Roman catacombs with ancient bones in foreground.
2 hrs - 3 hrs 30 mins
Transfers available
  • Venture beneath Rome’s streets to explore ancient Christian catacombs, where miles of tunnels once served as burial grounds and places of worship.

  • Skip the entry lines and follow an expert guide through underground galleries, tombs, and sacred spaces while learning about Rome’s earliest Christian communities.

  • Enjoy convenient transfers from central Rome, eliminating the hassle of navigating to these archaeological sites on your own.

  • Upgrade to include the Capuchin Crypt, a striking chapel decorated with the bones of thousands of friars, explored at your own pace with an audio guide.

  • Choose the golf cart experience for a more intimate journey along the Appian Way, combining catacomb access with one of ancient Rome’s most important roads.

More details
  • Venture beneath Rome’s streets to explore ancient Christian catacombs, where miles of tunnels once served as burial grounds and places of worship.

  • Skip the entry lines and follow an expert guide through underground galleries, tombs, and sacred spaces while learning about Rome’s earliest Christian communities.

  • Enjoy convenient transfers from central Rome, eliminating the hassle of navigating to these archaeological sites on your own.

  • Upgrade to include the Capuchin Crypt, a striking chapel decorated with the bones of thousands of friars, explored at your own pace with an audio guide.

  • Choose the golf cart experience for a more intimate journey along the Appian Way, combining catacomb access with one of ancient Rome’s most important roads.

from Original price€59
€47.20

20% off

Slide 1 of 10, Group of people on a guided tour near ancient Roman aqueducts on the Appian Way, Rome.
Group of people on a guided tour near ancient Roman aqueducts on the Appian Way, Rome.
Explore at your pace
1 more
  • Set out on a private family-friendly e-bike adventure along the historic Appian Way, with all gear included for comfort and safety.
  • Discover the fascinating Catacombs of St. Callixtus on a guided tour, delving into Rome’s ancient underground secrets.
  • Pause in the Aqueducts Park for a Roman-style brunch or aperitif, adding a delicious local touch to your journey.
  • Cycle past iconic sites like Porta San Sebastiano, the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, and the Circus of Maxentius.
  • Child seats and trailer bikes ensure even the youngest explorers can join in on this memorable Roman experience.
More details
  • Set out on a private family-friendly e-bike adventure along the historic Appian Way, with all gear included for comfort and safety.
  • Discover the fascinating Catacombs of St. Callixtus on a guided tour, delving into Rome’s ancient underground secrets.
  • Pause in the Aqueducts Park for a Roman-style brunch or aperitif, adding a delicious local touch to your journey.
  • Cycle past iconic sites like Porta San Sebastiano, the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, and the Circus of Maxentius.
  • Child seats and trailer bikes ensure even the youngest explorers can join in on this memorable Roman experience.
from
€129
Slide 1 of 11, Tour group exploring Roman catacombs with a guide explaining historical details.
Tour group exploring Roman catacombs with a guide explaining historical details.
1 hr - 3 hrs 30 mins
1 more
  • Explore two of Rome’s most unique underground sites in a single afternoon—ideal for time-strapped travelers.

  • Start at Piazza Barberini and travel by AC coach with a tour host—skip the hassle of arranging separate tickets and transport.

  • Explore the Capuchin Crypt with an audio guide before visiting one of Rome’s catacombs with a licensed expert.

  • Upgrade to include the hidden Basilica of San Nicola or a city guide app for more stories across Rome.

More details
  • Explore two of Rome’s most unique underground sites in a single afternoon—ideal for time-strapped travelers.

  • Start at Piazza Barberini and travel by AC coach with a tour host—skip the hassle of arranging separate tickets and transport.

  • Explore the Capuchin Crypt with an audio guide before visiting one of Rome’s catacombs with a licensed expert.

  • Upgrade to include the hidden Basilica of San Nicola or a city guide app for more stories across Rome.

from Original price€59
€47.20

20% off

Slide 1 of 12, Tourists exploring narrow passage in Roman Catacombs, touching ancient walls.
Tourists exploring narrow passage in Roman Catacombs, touching ancient walls.
45 mins - 2 hrs
Transfers available
  • Descend 30 meters beneath Rome to explore centuries-old tunnels where early Christians once worshipped in secret.

  • Navigate the maze safely with your guide, who doubles as your storyteller and compass through the sprawling underground labyrinth.

  • See where popes were laid to rest and uncover frescoes, including one of Rome’s earliest depictions of Christ, hidden deep within the catacombs.

  • Upgrade for convenience with round-trip transfers from a central Rome meeting point—so you can skip the travel planning and dive straight into exploration.

More details
  • Descend 30 meters beneath Rome to explore centuries-old tunnels where early Christians once worshipped in secret.

  • Navigate the maze safely with your guide, who doubles as your storyteller and compass through the sprawling underground labyrinth.

  • See where popes were laid to rest and uncover frescoes, including one of Rome’s earliest depictions of Christ, hidden deep within the catacombs.

  • Upgrade for convenience with round-trip transfers from a central Rome meeting point—so you can skip the travel planning and dive straight into exploration.

from
€12
Slide 1 of 12, Tourists walking through ancient Roman Catacombs on a guided tour.
Tourists walking through ancient Roman Catacombs on a guided tour.
45 mins - 3 hrs 30 mins
Audio guide
1 more
  • Explore the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, one of Rome’s oldest and largest Christian burial sites, on a guided tour with skip-the-line entry.

  • Walk through underground tunnels, chapels, frescoed chambers, and papal crypts as your guide shares stories of early Christian Rome.

  • Choose a guided tour in English, Italian, German, or Spanish for a more engaging and accessible experience.

  • Upgrade to include round-trip transfers from central Rome, making your visit to the catacombs more convenient.

  • Enhance your experience with a visit to the Capuchin Crypt or a small-group golf cart tour of the Appian Way and catacombs.

More details
  • Explore the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, one of Rome’s oldest and largest Christian burial sites, on a guided tour with skip-the-line entry.

  • Walk through underground tunnels, chapels, frescoed chambers, and papal crypts as your guide shares stories of early Christian Rome.

  • Choose a guided tour in English, Italian, German, or Spanish for a more engaging and accessible experience.

  • Upgrade to include round-trip transfers from central Rome, making your visit to the catacombs more convenient.

  • Enhance your experience with a visit to the Capuchin Crypt or a small-group golf cart tour of the Appian Way and catacombs.

from
€12
Slide 1 of 5, Facade of San Sebastiano Catacomb entrance in Rome, Italy, with historical architecture.
Facade of San Sebastiano Catacomb entrance in Rome, Italy, with historical architecture.
30 mins - 3 hrs 25 mins
Transfers available
  • Explore the Catacombs of St. Sebastian, one of Rome’s oldest Christian burial sites, on a guided tour through third-century underground tunnels and chambers.

  • Learn how saints, popes, martyrs, and Roman nobles were laid to rest here as your expert guide brings early Christian Rome to life.

  • Visit the catacombs linked to Saints Peter and Paul, an important pilgrimage site that played a key role in the history of Christianity.

  • Upgrade to include round-trip transfers and entry to the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella for a deeper exploration of the historic Appian Way.

  • Choose a full-day experience to visit both the St. Sebastian and St. Callixtus Catacombs, three papal basilicas, and the Holy Stairs with guided commentary throughout.

More details
  • Explore the Catacombs of St. Sebastian, one of Rome’s oldest Christian burial sites, on a guided tour through third-century underground tunnels and chambers.

  • Learn how saints, popes, martyrs, and Roman nobles were laid to rest here as your expert guide brings early Christian Rome to life.

  • Visit the catacombs linked to Saints Peter and Paul, an important pilgrimage site that played a key role in the history of Christianity.

  • Upgrade to include round-trip transfers and entry to the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella for a deeper exploration of the historic Appian Way.

  • Choose a full-day experience to visit both the St. Sebastian and St. Callixtus Catacombs, three papal basilicas, and the Holy Stairs with guided commentary throughout.

from
€12
Slide 1 of 15, Skulls and bones arranged in a decorative pattern in a Roman Catacombs crypt.
Skulls and bones arranged in a decorative pattern in a Roman Catacombs crypt.
3 hrs 30 mins
2 more
  • Skip the hassle with round-trip transfers, making it easy to explore these historic sites scattered across Rome.

  • Step into the eerie yet fascinating Capuchin Crypt, where 4,000 friars’ remains create hauntingly beautiful chapels—your audio guide unveils their story.

  • Venture deep into one of Rome’s legendary catacombs—Domitilla, St. Callixtus, or St. Sebastian—on a guided tour through ancient underground burial tunnels.

  • Uncover hidden history beneath the Basilica of San Martino ai Monti, one of Rome's oldest churches with fascinating underground levels.

  • Want to mix it up? Trade San Martino ai Monti for a visit to the legendary Bocca della Verità, plus Santa Maria in Cosmedin and Hadrian’s Crypt!

More details
  • Skip the hassle with round-trip transfers, making it easy to explore these historic sites scattered across Rome.

  • Step into the eerie yet fascinating Capuchin Crypt, where 4,000 friars’ remains create hauntingly beautiful chapels—your audio guide unveils their story.

  • Venture deep into one of Rome’s legendary catacombs—Domitilla, St. Callixtus, or St. Sebastian—on a guided tour through ancient underground burial tunnels.

  • Uncover hidden history beneath the Basilica of San Martino ai Monti, one of Rome's oldest churches with fascinating underground levels.

  • Want to mix it up? Trade San Martino ai Monti for a visit to the legendary Bocca della Verità, plus Santa Maria in Cosmedin and Hadrian’s Crypt!

from Original price€59
€47.20

20% off

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Certain tours include round-trip transfers from the city center, perfect for those unfamiliar with Rome’s transport. Be sure to check if transfers are included in your chosen tour.

The only way to explore the Catacombs is with a guided tour, in order to protect its fragile architecture. Whether you’re in a group or traveling solo, follow an expert in your preferred language.

Rome boasts over 60 catacombs, but only five are open to visitors: St. Callixtus, St. Sebastian, St. Domitilla, Priscilla, and Sant’Agnese. Verify your ticket and date of visit to know which of these you will visit.

Book ahead – at least a few days to a week in advance during regular times, and two weeks or more in advance during peak seasons.

About Roman Catacombs

Descend into the depths of history at the Roman Catacombs. These ancient burial chambers are a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, intricate frescoes, and sacred relics. Learn about the lives of early Christians in this mysterious underground world on an expert-led tour.

Great for
Solo Travellers
History Geeks
First-timers

AddressVia Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Roma RM, Italy
Year opened1632
Visitors per year1000000
Expected wait time - Standard30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Did you know?

The Roman Catacombs stretch over 150 kilometers beneath the city, making them one of the largest underground burial sites in the world.

There are more than 60 catacomb complexes in Rome, although only a few are open to the public, including the Catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano.

The catacombs were rediscovered in the 16th century after being forgotten for nearly a thousand years.

Early Christians buried their dead in the catacombs because Roman laws forbade burials within the city walls.

The catacombs house some of the earliest known Christian art, including frescoes, inscriptions, and religious symbols like the fish and the anchor.

Why visit Roman Catacombs?

A journey through early Christian resilience

The catacombs offer a direct connection to early Christians who faced persecution. Walking through these ancient tunnels, you’ll feel the weight of their faith and see where they gathered in secret, giving hope a place to thrive amid adversity.

Artistic expressions of faith

Adorned with early Christian art, the catacombs feature frescoes and engravings of biblical scenes, fish, and doves. These artworks are spiritual narratives that bring the beliefs of those interred to life, merging history and faith.

Spiritual sanctuary

The quiet, dimly lit corridors offer more than just history. Many visitors experience a contemplative journey, with the solemn atmosphere encouraging reflection on life, death, and spirituality.

Insights into ancient burial practices

Learn about how early Christians honored their dead with burial customs that reflect their belief in bodily resurrection. The catacombs’ loculi (niches) provide a deeper understanding of ancient religious and cultural practices.

Connection to Martyrdom

Many saints and popes are buried here, making the catacombs a powerful pilgrimage site. The tombs of martyrs serve as poignant reminders of sacrifice and faith, enriching your visit with historical and spiritual layers.

Highlights

Plan your visit

Roman Catacombs

Monday9:00am–5:00pm
Tuesday9:00am–5:00pm
WednesdayClosed
Thursday9:00am–5:00pm
Friday9:00am–5:00pm
Saturday9:00am–5:00pm
Sunday9:00am–5:00pm

Opening hours

  • San Sebastian: Tue–Sun, 9:15am–5:15pm. Last entry: 4:45pm.
  • Saint Callixtus: Mon, Tue & Thu–Sun, 9am–12pm; 2pm–5pm.
  • Domitilla: Wed–Mon, 9am–12pm; 2pm–5pm. Last tour: 20 min before closing.
  • Priscilla: Tue–Sun, 9:30am–1pm; 2pm–5pm. Last tour: 1 hour before closing.
  • Sant’Agnese: Mon–Sat, 10am–1pm; 3pm–6pm. 

Closed on

  • San Sebastian: Mondays; Jan 1, Easter Sunday & Dec 25. Annual closure: Dec 7–27, 2026.
  • Saint Callixtus: Wednesdays; Jan 1, Easter & Dec 25.
  • Domitilla: Tuesdays.
  • Priscilla: Mondays; Jan 1, Jan 6, Dec 24–26, Easter Sunday & Jan 12–26 and Aug 17–31, 2026.
  • Sant’Agnese: Sundays; Jan 1, Easter, Aug 15, Christmas & holiday mornings. Annual closures: Aug 10–17, Nov 16–Dec 6 & Dec 31, 2026.

Browse by themes

What our guests say

Gary T

United Kingdom
Couple
Last week
We went early as to avoid the chaos which sort of worked,straight in tickets and the guide made the difference straight in and of you go. 100% would do exactly the same thing again.

Combo: Catacombs of St. Callixtus + St. John Lateran + Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets

Matilde P

Argentina
Group
Last week

+1 more

Excellent experience without waiting in a single line. We had a great time discovering this icon of Catholic history.

Combo: Catacombs of St. Callixtus + St. John Lateran + Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets

Victor R

Family
Last week
We were accompanied at all times by our guide Petre, who is very dedicated and professional in his work. Indeed, we didn't have to wait in the long entrance lines. It was an incredible experience.

Jubilee Bronze Pass: Vatican Museums + Catacombs of St. Callixtus

Graham M

United Kingdom
Couple
2 weeks ago
Very professional and informative. Always keen to answer our questions. This tour was easy from start to finish. Would use them again.

Jubilee Bronze Pass: Vatican Museums + Catacombs of St. Callixtus

Cristiano C

Italy
Couple
2 weeks ago

+2 more

My girlfriend and I celebrated our one-year anniversary in Castel Gandolfo, and visiting the Papal Palace was truly special, something unique. The view from the gardens is one of the most beautiful sights we've ever seen.

Jubilee Gold Pass: Vatican Museums + Catacombs of St. Callixtus + Castel Sant'Angelo + Castel Gandolfo

Paolo R

Couple
Aug 2026
Tuesday, August 4. We booked and purchased two tickets for the Papal Palace and the Secret Garden at Castel Gandolfo. When we arrived, we were surprised to find everything closed because the Holy Father had decided to stay an extra day at Castel Gandolfo. Officially, the website listed it as open and available for visits. The gendarmerie advised us to call the Vatican Museums’ customer service. They stated that the matter was outside their jurisdiction since the tickets had been purchased in advance by credit card through Headout. Unfortunately, your website does not list any phone number for information or assistance. After I sent three emails requesting a refund, and received three replies (all in English...) apologizing for the inconvenience and stating that they were looking into the reason for the closure, the full refund was credited to my card on the 16th. Aside from the fact that I was unable to visit the Papal Palace and the Secret Garden at Castel Gandolfo (perhaps for my next vacation in Rome)—which was not Headout’s fault—everything was handled very correctly and professionally. ... Thank you.

Jubilee Gold Pass: Vatican Museums + Catacombs of St. Callixtus + Castel Sant'Angelo + Castel Gandolfo

Marco N

Group
3 weeks ago
A visit I definitely recommend to see something different in Rome beyond the usual tourist spots. A fascinating archaeological site.

Catacombs of St. Callixtus Guided Tour

Ana L

Spain
Couple
Aug 2026

+1 more

It really is very beautiful, but I think they should limit the number of visitors allowed each day. I think there are too many people, and it gets way too hot.

Combo: Catacombs of St. Callixtus + St. John Lateran with Audio Guide + Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets

Nearby cities to explore