Appian Way Aqueducts eBike Tour with Catacombs and Brunch

Exploring Rome’s historic Appian Way on an electric bike offers a refreshing way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights outside the bustling city center. This 5-hour small-group tour from Roma STARBIKE costs $105.54 per person and is recommended for those who enjoy cycling, history, and scenic outdoor routes. The tour includes all bike equipment, a guided visit to the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, and a brunch or aperitif, making it a well-rounded combination of adventure, culture, and cuisine.

While the route covers over 310 miles (500 km) of ancient Roman roads, the tour focuses on a curated selection of landmarks and natural settings. It’s ideal for moderate physically fit travelers who are comfortable riding a bike and eager to discover Rome’s countryside and archaeological treasures without the fatigue of city traffic. The tour’s small group of up to 12 participants ensures plenty of attention from guides and a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $105.54 and lasts approximately 5 hours.
• Includes all equipment: High-quality e-bikes, helmets, phone holders, and child seats are provided.
• Highlights: Visit Porta San Sebastiano, the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, and the Circus of Maxentius.
• Scenic stops: Enjoy parks, aqueducts, and ancient ruins with opportunities for photos and exploration.
• Food and drink: A brunch or aperitif with water, cold cuts, and drinks is included, depending on the time of day.
• Expert guides: Guides like Iman, Marco, Flavio, or Matt are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Family-friendly: Child seats are available for kids under 25 kg, and children aged 6-10 are welcome if under 143 cm tall.

Discover the Historic Porta San Sebastiano

The tour begins at Roma STARBIKE, located near public transportation. The first stop is Porta San Sebastiano, a commanding gate built around 275 AD as part of the Aurelian Walls. This gateway marks the start of the Via Appia Antica, an ancient Roman road stretching over 310 miles. Visitors can admire medieval graffiti on its stones, evidence of pilgrims passing through for centuries.

The 15-minute stop offers a chance to appreciate the gate’s formidable architecture and the historical significance of this entry point into Rome. It sets the tone for the journey into the city’s ancient past.

Exploring the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus

Next, the tour takes visitors 50 minutes into the underground world of the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus. This is the official funerary complex of the Roman church, with corridors stretching up to 20 km. The site dates back to the second century BC and is named after Deacon Callixtus I.

Here, more than 50 martyrs, 16 popes, and half a million Christians are buried. The guided visit provides insight into early Christian burial customs and the significance of the catacombs as a sacred place. This stop is a highlight for history buffs and those interested in religious heritage.

Strolling Through Parco Della Caffarella

Following the underground visit, the tour moves into Parco Della Caffarella, a vast green space that forms part of the Appia Antica Regional Park. This 50-minute stop features lush paths, ancient ruins, and remnants of old buildings.

It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely ride or walk, offering a peaceful break amidst nature and history. The park’s size makes it one of the largest green areas in Europe accessible from Rome, and its quiet atmosphere provides a stark contrast to the city’s hustle.

Enchantment at Ninfeo di Egeria

The 20-minute stop at Ninfeo di Egeria introduces a mythic site linked to King Numa Pompilius and the love story with the water nymph Egeria. According to legend, Egeria’s tears over her beloved’s death created a spring here.

This small, sacred spring offers a romantic glimpse into Rome’s mythological past and provides a picturesque setting for photos. It’s a brief but charming addition to the route, emphasizing Rome’s blend of myth and history.

Marveling at Cecilia Metella’s Mausoleum

The 20-minute visit to Mausoleo di Cecilia Metella is a key highlight. Dating from the 1st century BC, this pagan tomb is among the best-preserved mausoleums along the Appian Way.

The mausoleum is incorporated into the Castrum Caetani, a medieval fortress, and the remains of the Caetani family’s medieval house and the church of San Nicola are nearby. The site offers impressive views and a sense of the grandeur of ancient Rome’s elite.

Lunch or Aperitif at Parco degli Acquedotti

In the 5-hour tour, a lunch stop is made at the Parco degli Acquedotti, famous for its Roman aqueduct remains. The park offers a stunning backdrop of Claudio aqueduct arches and lush greenery.

Here, visitors enjoy Italian specialties in a scenic setting. On the afternoon tour, instead of lunch, a tasty aperitif with cold cuts and drinks takes place, making this stop versatile for different preferences.

Admiring Roman Aqueducts in Action

The tour continues along the aqueducts, where some aqueduct remains are still well-preserved or in operation. The 50-minute stop at the Parco degli Acquedotti showcases the engineering mastery of ancient Rome, with water channels that once supplied the city’s baths and fountains.

This section emphasizes the grandeur of Roman infrastructure and provides excellent opportunities for photography and learning about Roman engineering.

Visiting Villa dei Quintili and the Imperial Ruins

At the fifth mile of the Appian Way, visitors see the Villa dei Quintili, a sprawling estate built for wealthy Roman senators. Built in the second century AD, the villa was confiscated by Emperor Commodus and became imperial property.

The 20-minute stop offers views of the villa ruins and nearby Santa Maria Nova. It provides insight into Roman aristocratic life and the scale of Roman villa architecture.

Exploring the Baths of Caracalla

The 15-minute stop at the Thermae of Caracalla highlights the grandeur of one of the largest public baths in ancient Rome. Constructed during the reign of Emperor Caracalla, the baths could accommodate thousands and had water supplied via the Aqua Marcia aqueduct.

Today, most of the structure remains, giving visitors a sense of Roman leisure and engineering prowess. Small remains at the Porta di San Sebastiano connect this site to the broader route.

The Spectacle of Circus Maxentius

The 20-minute visit to the Circus of Maxentius offers an up-close look at the best-preserved Roman circus. This structure once hosted chariot races and public spectacles.

The spina, still visible, once housed the Obelisk of Agonale, now famously moved to Piazza Navona. Walking through the ruins, visitors can imagine the bustling Roman entertainment scene.

The Green Splendor of Parco Archeologico dell’Appia Antica

The entire route along the Parco degli Acquedotti and surrounding archaeological sites showcases ancient Roman water systems, roads, and villas amid lush landscapes. The park’s size and preservation make it a highlight for those interested in Roman engineering and countryside scenery.

The continuous greenery and ancient remains create a peaceful yet historically rich environment for cycling and exploration.

Concluding the Appian Way eBike Tour

This small-group tour offers a comprehensive look at Rome’s ancient landscape with a focus on historical landmarks, aqueducts, and scenic parks. The e-bike makes covering long distances easier, and the included food and drinks add a social, relaxing element.

The expert guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and careful handling of the group. The stops at catacombs, mausoleum, and aqueducts provide memorable experiences that go beyond typical city sightseeing.

However, the length of the ride—about 5 hours—may be taxing for some, especially in hot weather. The tour requires moderate physical fitness and ability to ride a bike well. Still, with small-group attention and top-quality equipment, this experience is both accessible and enriching for those eager to explore Rome’s countryside and archaeological sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6-10 are welcome if under 143 cm tall, as they will ride trailers. The tour involves easy biking with high-quality e-bikes, but children should be comfortable riding in a group.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all bike equipment, guided visit to the Catacombs, a brunch or aperitif, and water. Entrance tickets for stops like the catacombs are included.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The ride lasts about 5 hours with stops, requiring moderate fitness, and the use of electric bikes eases the effort. Riders should know how to ride a bike well and be comfortable for extended periods.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Roma STARBIKE located at Via dei SS. Quattro, 58. The activity closes back at the same meeting point.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves bike riding and outdoor stops, it may not be suitable for those with significant mobility restrictions.