Rome Catacombs, Basilicas & Holy Stairs Tour
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Overview
Rome: Catacombs and Basilicas with Holy Stairs Tour lets visitors explore Rome's most sacred sites. This tour visits two major basilicas and the ancient Christian catacombs. See the best of religious Rome on this half-day tour.
Visitors will discover St. Mary Major, the most important Roman church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, housing the tomb of Pope Francis. Next is St. John’s in Lateran, Rome's cathedral and the first Papal residence. The tour stops at the Holy Stairs before heading to the ancient Appian Way, an important road of the Roman Empire. The final stop is the Catacombs of Rome, ancient underground Christian cemeteries.
This tour includes skip-the-line access to the Catacombs, St. John's in Lateran, and St. Mary Major, ensuring more time is spent exploring. The tour provides transportation by minivan and a professional licensed guide. Headsets are also provided. Please note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included.




Highlights
Skip the Line: Bypass the long queues at the Catacombs, St. John's in Lateran, and St. Mary Major.
Visit Major Basilicas: Explore the important basilicas of St. Mary Major and St. John Lateran.
Discover Ancient History: Walk the ancient Appian Way and explore the Roman Catacombs.
Comfortable Transportation: Travel in comfort in a minivan.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoyed the tour of Rome's catacombs and basilicas, praising the knowledgeable guide and convenient transportation. Some felt the tour was a bit rushed.

Customers enjoyed the guide's knowledge and enthusiasm.
Many liked seeing the basilicas and catacombs.
The tour provided a good overview of religious history.
Transportation was comfortable and convenient.
Some found the tour a bit rushed.
A few wished for more time at each site.
The Journey
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Discover the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome's four major basilicas and a testament to Marian devotion. Marvel at its stunning mosaics, opulent chapels, and the relics it safeguards, including purported fragments of the Holy Crib. While it does not house the tomb of Pope Francis, its significance in Catholic history and architectural grandeur make it a must-see. Explore centuries of art and faith within its hallowed walls.
Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran
Visit the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, the true cathedral of Rome and the official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope. Explore its magnificent architecture, historical artifacts, and papal tombs. Experience the heart of the Catholic Church and appreciate the basilica's profound significance as the first among equals in the Catholic world.
Scala Santa (Holy Stairs)
Ascend the Scala Santa, or Holy Stairs, believed to be the very steps that Jesus Christ climbed in Pontius Pilate's palace in Jerusalem. Brought to Rome in the 4th century by St. Helena, these marble steps are now encased in wood for preservation. Pilgrims from around the world climb these stairs on their knees in prayer, seeking spiritual connection and commemorating the Passion of Christ. Experience a profound sense of reverence and history at this sacred site.
Appian Way (Via Appia Antica)
Journey along the Appian Way, one of the earliest and strategically important Roman roads of the ancient republic. Wander through history amidst ancient ruins, catacombs, and scenic landscapes. Imagine the legions marching and the merchants traveling along this vital artery of the Roman Empire. Explore the historical context and natural beauty.
Roman Catacombs
Descend into the eerie depths of the Roman Catacombs, ancient underground burial places used by early Christians and Jews. Explore the labyrinthine tunnels adorned with ancient frescoes and inscriptions. Learn about the lives, faith, and burial practices of those who sought refuge and community in these hidden spaces. Witness a tangible connection to the past and the enduring spirit of early Christianity.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes skip-the-line entrance to the Catacombs, St. John's in Lateran, and St. Mary Major. Headsets, transportation by minivan, and a professional licensed guide are also included. Hotel pick up and drop off is not included.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as there's a good amount of walking involved, especially in the catacombs and along the Appian Way.