Via Appia Antica
Walk or cycle on the 'Queen of Roads,' an ancient Roman marvel lined with tombs, ruins, and scenic countryside.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer cars, more relaxed
Via Appia Antica
Best Time
Fewer cars, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk or cycle on the 'Queen of Roads,' an ancient Roman marvel lined with tombs, ruins, and scenic countryside.
"It's a remarkable and superb ancient road that you really ought to check out if you're in Rome.
"🚲 Rent a Bike!
E-bikes are ideal for covering the long route and enjoying the scenery.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient cobblestones.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Roman Road
Via Appia Antica
Walk or cycle on the 'Queen of Roads,' a marvel of Roman engineering lined with ancient tombs and ruins.
Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella
Via Appia Antica
A striking cylindrical tomb, one of the most iconic and well-preserved monuments on the Appian Way.

Villa of the Quintilii
Via Appia Antica
Explore the vast ruins of a luxurious Roman villa, offering a glimpse into ancient aristocratic life.

Catacombs of San Callisto
Via Appia Antica
Descend into these ancient underground burial chambers, a significant site in early Christian history.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Appian Way
Getting There & Getting Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bike!
E-bikes are ideal for covering the long route and enjoying the scenery.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient cobblestones.
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
Especially important during warmer months, as there's limited shade.
🚌 Use the 118 Bus
A convenient way to reach the Appian Way from central Rome.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bike!
E-bikes are ideal for covering the long route and enjoying the scenery.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient cobblestones.
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
Especially important during warmer months, as there's limited shade.
🚌 Use the 118 Bus
A convenient way to reach the Appian Way from central Rome.
🐐 Watch for Goats!
You might encounter them crossing the road, adding a unique touch.
🗺️ Consider a Guide
For deeper historical context, a local guide can enhance your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Via Appia Antica for its historical significance and the unique experience of walking or cycling on an ancient Roman road. Many recommend renting bikes and visiting on Sundays for a more relaxed atmosphere. Some find the initial sections can be busy with traffic, and suggest venturing further out for the best experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way is to take the 118 bus from near Circus Maximus, which will take you to stops like San Sebastiano, a good starting point.
Alternatively, you can take the metro to a station and then catch a connecting bus.The Appian Way is quite long. Renting bicycles, especially e-bikes, is highly recommended to cover more ground and enjoy the experience fully.
Walking is also an option, but be prepared for a significant distance.While some vehicles are allowed, especially on weekdays, it's best to avoid driving if possible. Sundays offer a more pedestrian-friendly experience as many sections are closed to traffic.
Many visitors start near Porta San Sebastiano, which houses the Museum of the Via Appia Antica, or at the San Sebastiano stop for the 118 bus.
Renting bikes is often done a few blocks from the Colosseum before heading out.Yes, the 118 bus is a direct public transport link from central Rome to key points along the Via Appia Antica, making it accessible for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Via Appia Antica itself is an ancient road and generally free to access. However, specific sites along the way, like the Catacombs or Villa of the Quintilii, require separate tickets for entry.
The road is generally accessible throughout the day. However, specific monuments and catacombs have their own operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check individual site times before your visit.
Accessing the road itself is free. Fees typically apply to enter specific archaeological sites like the mausoleums, villas, and catacombs located along the route.
Tickets for specific sites like the Catacombs or Villa of the Quintilii can usually be purchased at the entrance to those sites. It's advisable to check online in advance for any booking requirements or potential discounts.
On Sundays, many sections of the Via Appia Antica are closed to motor vehicles, making it ideal for walking and cycling.
However, the road itself remains accessible. Specific monuments may have their own closing days.🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Many visitors find cycling or walking the most immersive way to experience the ancient road and its surroundings.
Consider renting bikes to cover more distance and see multiple sites.Yes, it's generally considered very safe during the day, with plenty of other visitors, especially on Sundays.
The road is partly paved with original Roman cobblestones and partly on dirt paths. Comfortable footwear is essential for walking or cycling.
Yes, guided tours, including bike tours, are available and can provide valuable historical context and insights into the ancient sites.
Key highlights include the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, the Villa of the Quintilii, and various catacombs like San Callisto or San Sebastiano.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the ancient cobblestones, Roman ruins, mausoleums, and the scenic countryside. The light in the late afternoon can be particularly beautiful.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the atmosphere of this historic site.
Photography is typically not allowed inside the Catacombs to preserve the delicate environment and for security reasons.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive ruins and landscapes. A sturdy pair of shoes is also recommended for navigating the terrain.
Generally, photography is permitted along the open road and exterior of monuments. However, always check for specific signage at individual sites.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting sites like the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella or exploring the open fields around the aqueducts in the nearby Parco degli Acquedotti for space to run around. The Catacombs might be a bit intense for very young children, so gauge their interest and tolerance for enclosed spaces.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Consider joining a guided bike tour for added company and historical insights, or rent a bike and explore at your own pace. Bringing a fully charged phone and perhaps a portable charger is always a good idea for navigation and photos.
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider hiring a local guide or doing thorough research beforehand to fully appreciate the historical context of sites like the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella and the Villa of the Quintilii. Visiting the Catacombs offers a unique perspective on early Christian history and burial practices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Appian Way
While the initial parts of the road might have some traffic, especially on weekdays, the experience becomes much more serene as you venture further out. Sundays are particularly popular as many sections are closed to motor vehicles, creating a more relaxed and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. Be prepared for a mix of original Roman cobblestones and dirt paths, so comfortable cycling attire is a must.
Cycling offers a unique perspective, allowing you to feel the history beneath your wheels and stop at your leisure to explore ruins like the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella or the Villa of the Quintilii. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the ancient Roman landscape.
Exploring the Ancient Tombs and Ruins
Further along, the Villa of the Quintilii presents the sprawling ruins of what was once a luxurious aristocratic estate, giving visitors a sense of the scale and grandeur of Roman villas. Exploring these sites provides a vivid glimpse into the lives and burial customs of ancient Romans.
Many of these sites, such as the Catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano, require separate tickets and guided tours to fully appreciate their historical and religious significance. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain and ancient cobblestones.
The Role of the 118 Bus
Using the 118 bus allows you to bypass the need for a car and easily access the starting points for walking or cycling tours. It's a practical option for those who prefer not to navigate driving in Rome or are looking for a straightforward way to reach the archaeological park.
When planning your journey, check the bus schedule in advance, as timings can vary. It's a reliable method to get you to the heart of the ancient Appian Way, ready to explore its historical treasures.
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