The city beneath the city
Private Underground Rome Tour
Catacombs, crypts and multi-level basilicas — Rome below street level
Beneath Rome’s paving stones hides another city — several storeys of history running downward. Two hours descending through the layers: ancient houses and insulae, multi-level basilicas where beneath today’s church lies an early-Christian one and, below that, an ancient sanctuary, crypts and catacombs. The mystical, non-touristy Rome for those who’ve already seen the classics. With an art historian, in English, Italian and Russian.
Programme
- Catacombs Underground Christian necropolises with frescoes and inscriptions.
- Multi-level basilicas Where the early-Christian and ancient levels open beneath the modern church.
- Ancient insulae and crypts Metres below today’s streets.
- The layers of the city Read like pages: fires, floods, oblivion and new life on the old.
Rome wasn’t rebuilt — it was built up. Going down beneath a basilica you literally walk back in time: one floor a Christian church, below it an ancient sanctuary, below that a street of imperial Rome. It’s the city’s most underrated route.
What the price covers
- A private tour with an art-historian guide
- Skip-the-line entry arranged (underground sites require booking)
- English, Italian and Russian
Paid separately
- Entry tickets to catacombs and crypts (booked ahead, paid separately)
The quoted price covers one to three guests. From four upwards, quoted on request.
Practical notes
- Meeting point
- By arrangement; some sites are far from the centre — a transfer can be added
- Duration
- About 2–2.5 hours
- Underground
- It’s +15°C year-round — bring a light cardigan; non-slip shoes
- Photography
- Usually forbidden in the Christian catacombs
Frequently asked
What will we see on “Underground Rome”?
Catacombs, multi-level basilicas, ancient insulae and crypts — the layers of the city metres below the streets.
How is it different from “Christian Rome”?
Christian Rome is the above-ground papal basilicas and relics with a driver. Underground Rome is the descent — catacombs and ancient layers.
Is it safe underground?
Yes, all sites are officially open, lit and ventilated; the guide is with you throughout.
How much is it?
From €300 per tour (1–3 guests); from four, on request. Tickets separate.
Any fitness needed?
There are stairs down and up; we go slowly; wear comfortable shoes.
Who is it for?
Those who’ve seen Rome’s classics and want the non-touristy, mystical city.
Available dates and a quote for your party — in reply to a short message.
Get in touchOther tours in Rome
Private Christian Rome Tour
The papal basilicas, relics and early-Christian mosaics — with a private driver
Private Ancient Rome Tour
The Colosseum with arena and underground, Forum, Palatine and Capitoline — 4 hours
Rome Art Walk: Churches, Frescoes and the Art of the Centre
Not the icons — art: churches, cloisters and courtyards