Rome E-Bike Tour: Appian Way, Catacombs & Aqueducts
Overview
Rome E-Bike Tour: Appian Way, Catacombs & Roman Aqueducts offers a chance to see the old Roman countryside. This E-Bike tour takes people on a ride through history, right outside of Rome. It's perfect for anyone who wants to explore ancient ruins and learn about Roman times in a fun way. People will see old walls, a big arena called the Circus of Maxentius, and a fancy tomb.
Get ready to bike along the Appian Way, an old road that's been around for ages. The electric bike makes it easy to go up hills and see lots of cool stuff without getting too tired. The tour guide will tell stories about the places along the way. Plus, there's a small group, so everyone can ask questions and learn a lot.
This tour includes a water bottle, a helpful guide, a helmet, a nice Cannondale E-Bike, and a handlebar bag. In the longer tour, people get to go into the Catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano. These are old underground burial places from the 2nd century. People will see the Porta di San Sebastiano, Appian Way (Regina Viarum), Catacombs of San Callisto, Villa of Maxentius, Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, Villa of the Quintilii, Park of the Aqueducts, Baths of Caracalla (View), Roman Countryside. This tour does not include hotel pickup, tips, or lunch.
Highlights
Explore Ancient Rome: See old ruins and learn about Roman history.
Easy E-Bike Ride: The electric bike helps climb hills without getting too tired.
Small Group Tour: Get personal attention from the guide.
Visit Catacombs: Go underground to see old burial places (6-hour tour only).
Sentiment Analysis
Guides are super friendly, helpful and knowledgeable.
The E-bikes are comfortable and easy to use.
People love that the tour is a great way to see historical sites outside the city.
The smaller group size makes the tour feel more personal.
Some people wish the tour included lunch.
The meeting point can be a little hard to find.
The Journey
Porta di San Sebastiano
Stand in awe of the Porta di San Sebastiano, the largest and most impressive gate in the Aurelian Walls, built in the 3rd century AD. This monumental gateway offers a tangible connection to Rome's ancient defenses and a dramatic entry point to the historic Appian Way, evoking a sense of entering a bygone era.
Appian Way (Regina Viarum)
Journey along the 'Regina Viarum,' the Queen of Roads, an ancient Roman highway dating back to 312 BC. This historic path, initially stretching 538 km from Rome to Brindisi, was vital for trade and military movements. Today, it provides a scenic route through history, lined with ancient ruins and captivating landscapes, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of emperors and legionnaires.
Catacombs of San Callisto
Descend into the Catacombs of San Callisto, one of Rome's largest and most important early Christian burial sites, the resting place of half a million souls. Explore the underground tunnels adorned with ancient frescoes and tombs, gaining profound insight into the early Christian community. (Note: Alternate visit to the Catacombs of San Sebastiano on Wednesdays during the 6-hour tour, offering a similar glimpse into early Christian history.)
Villa of Maxentius
Explore the ruins of the Villa of Maxentius, an imperial complex dating from the early 4th century AD. Discover the remnants of the opulent villa and its adjacent circus, a private chariot racetrack, that offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of a Roman emperor. The scale of the complex provides a tangible connection to the power and grandeur of imperial Rome.
Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella
Visit the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, a remarkably well-preserved tomb dedicated to a noblewoman from the 1st century AD. This imposing cylindrical structure, the largest mausoleum on the Appian Way, stands as a testament to the wealth and status of the Roman elite. Marvel at its enduring presence and the stories it holds within its ancient stones.
Villa of the Quintilii
Witness the expansive remains of the Villa of the Quintilii, a 2nd-century AD residence so magnificent it aroused the envy of Emperor Commodus, leading to the owners' execution. Explore the sprawling complex, offering a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of Rome's wealthiest citizens, and imagine the drama that unfolded within its walls. (Included only in the 6-hour tour.)
Park of the Aqueducts
Stroll through the Park of the Aqueducts, a vast green space crisscrossed by the majestic arches of ancient aqueducts. These engineering marvels once supplied Rome with fresh water, and today, they create a stunning backdrop for a leisurely walk or bike ride, blending nature with ancient history.
Baths of Caracalla (View)
Enjoy a view of the remains of the Baths of Caracalla, one of ancient Rome's largest and most opulent thermal bath complexes, dating back to the 2nd Century AD. Imagine the vibrant social life that once thrived within these walls, where citizens gathered to bathe, exercise, and socialize. (Highlight included only in the 6-hour tour.)
Roman Countryside
Cycle through the island of countryside nestled within the sprawling city of Rome. Experience the peacefulness of rustic animal farms and lush green pastures. This scenic escape offers a refreshing contrast to the urban bustle, allowing you to connect with nature and experience a different side of Rome.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes water, a guide, a helmet, and a Cannondale E-Bike. The 6-hour tour includes a visit to the Catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano. Not included are hotel pickup, tips, and lunch. Please note that for this experience there will be no pickup, drop-off or meet-up.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes and bring some extra water, especially on hot days. Also, arrive a bit early to find the meeting point, so there's no rush before the tour starts.
Review Summary
People find this Rome EBike Tour highly enjoyable for covering extensive areas of Roman countryside with minimal physical strain, thanks to reliable electric bikes. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the fascinating stops including catacombs and aqueducts, and the small group size allowing personal attention. Positive points include the scenic route outside the city, engaging historical insights, and well-maintained equipment. Common negatives highlighted include the bumpy nature of the Appian Way terrain and the need for reasonable cycling ability. Though the tour doesn't typically include meals, nearby snack options and occasional food upgrades are appreciated. Overall, the experience is regarded as a unique and memorable way to explore ancient Rome beyond the city center.
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