Rome: Appian Way, Catacombs, & Roman Aqueducts E-bike Tour

History

The Appian Way, constructed in 312 BCE, is one of Rome’s oldest and most significant roads, known as the “Queen of Roads,” connecting the city to southern Italy and symbolizing the engineering prowess of ancient Rome. Lined with ancient tombs, villas, and mausoleums, it served as a vital artery for trade and military campaigns, reflecting Rome’s rise and eventual decline. The Catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian, dating to the early Christian era, offer a glimpse into the religious and cultural shifts of the 2nd to 4th centuries CE.

The Park of the Aqueducts, part of Rome’s sophisticated water supply system, showcases the monumental arches that carried water to the city, a testament to Roman ingenuity from the 3rd century BCE onward. The Caffarella Valley, a green oasis, preserves the pastoral charm of ancient Rome. This e-bike tour weaves together these historic landmarks, blending the city’s rich past with the serene beauty of its countryside.

Highlights

• Choose between a 6-hour tour with a guided Catacombs visit or a 4-hour tour without
• Ride past ancient villas, tombs, and mausoleums on the Appian Way
• Discover the colossal Roman Aqueducts and follow them back to the city
• Enjoy the perfect itinerary blending nature and history in the Roman countryside
• Explore the serene Caffarella Valley and Rome’s ancient engineering marvels

Full Description

Embark on an immersive e-bike tour through Rome’s ancient wonders, blending history and nature along the Appian Way and Park of the Aqueducts. Meet your guide at the shop in Via Labicana 49, near the Colosseum, and hop on a high-quality Cannondale e-mountain bike equipped with anti-puncture tires, a helmet, and a 5-liter handlebar bag. After a brief orientation, ride through St. Sebastian’s gate in the Aurelian Walls to enter the 2,300-year-old Appian Way, a historic road dotted with ancient relics.

For the 6-hour tour, descend into the Catacombs of St. Callixtus or St. Sebastian for a guided visit, exploring ancient crypts and learning about early Christian history. The 4-hour tour includes a brief stop at the Catacombs’ entrance for a historical overview. Continue cycling along the Appian Way, passing mausoleums, tombstones, and villas of Rome’s ancient aristocracy, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the countryside.

Next, arrive at the Park of the Aqueducts, where towering arches stand against the afternoon light, showcasing Rome’s engineering genius. Follow these aqueducts back toward the city, crossing the lush Caffarella Valley, a green haven offering a peaceful contrast to Rome’s urban bustle. Conclude your ride back at the starting point, enriched by stories of Rome’s past and the serene landscapes of its countryside.

What’s Included

• Cannondale Quality E-Mountain Bike (with anti-puncture tires)
• Professional guide
• Helmet (mandatory)
• 5-liter handlebar bag
• Biodegradable bottle of water
• Guided visit of the Catacombs (6-hour tour only)

Meeting Point

Meet your guide at the shop in Via Labicana 49, a few minutes’ walk from the Colosseum, at the time specified in your booking. The guide will provide a safety briefing and fit you with a Cannondale e-bike and helmet. After the tour, you’ll return to the same starting point. Arrive promptly to ensure a smooth departure for this historic adventure.

Price

From $84 per person

Traveler Reviews

• What a beautiful way to see more of Rome and get away from the crowds. We brought our 12 and 14-year-old kids, and everyone enjoyed themselves!
• One of the funnest excursions in Rome! Not as crowded as the main attractions. Our guide was great and knowledgeable about the history! Would do again.
• The guide was very knowledgeable and provided excellent information about the history of Rome and the aqueducts. Highly recommended.