Rome: Appian Way, Aqueducts & Catacombs (Small Group or Private)

Exploring Rome on Two Wheels: An Honest Look at the Appian Way, Aqueducts & Catacombs Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Rome beyond the bustling streets and iconic landmarks, this e-bike tour along the Via Appia Antica and its surroundings might just be your ideal pick. Offered by Bicycle Roma, this small-group adventure gives you a chance to glide through quiet countryside, marvel at ancient aqueducts, and peek into historic catacombs — all while enjoying the ease of electric bikes.

What we really appreciate about this tour are the balanced mix of scenic beauty and deep history and the expert guidance that makes navigating off-the-beaten-path spots both safe and enriching. Plus, the inclusion of helmet, poncho, and a dedicated guide makes it feel well-organized and traveler-friendly.

However, a point to consider is that some off-road sections can be a bit rough, so basic biking skills are recommended. This isn’t a tour for complete novices, especially on uneven terrain, but for those with some comfort on a bike, it’s a unique way to see parts of Rome that aren’t crowded or overly touristy.

If you’re someone who loves combining outdoor activity with learning, enjoys a touch of adventure, and wants to get outside the city center, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with a family or a small group and want a mix of history, nature, and fun all rolled into one trip.

Key Points

• Ideal for active travelers who are comfortable riding bikes on uneven surfaces
• Includes knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights throughout the ride
• A scenic escape from busy Rome with peaceful countryside views
• Offers a variety of stops including aqueducts, tombs, and catacombs for a well-rounded experience
• E-bikes make the ride accessible even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist
• Tour duration of about 3.5 hours strikes a good balance between sightseeing and leisure

Why You’ll Love the Rome E-Bike Tour

This tour is a fantastic way to see Rome’s countryside and ancient relics without the chaos of city traffic. We loved the way the quiet, car-free sections of the Appian Way allow you to pedal at a relaxed pace, soaking in the views of the countryside and Roman ruins. The guides are consistently praised for their friendly attitude, wealth of knowledge, and attentiveness—making even a bumpy stretch feel manageable and interesting.

Another highlight is the visits to the aqueducts and the catacombs. The aqueducts park offers a stunning landscape of Roman engineering marvels, with arches that still stand tall after centuries. As one reviewer noted, “The ancient arches of the aqueduct draw a breathtaking landscape,” and you’ll get a real sense of how Rome’s water system shaped its development.

The Catacombs of Saint Callixtus provide a mysterious, cooler refuge from the Roman heat, and the 45-minute guided visit inside offers a glimpse into early Christian burial practices. Reviews show that most find this part of the tour particularly memorable. It’s a unique chance to step underground and experience a different side of Roman history.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For $88.87 per person, the tour packs quite a lot into its 3.5 hours. The price reflects the inclusion of an e-bike, helmet, guide, and tickets to the catacombs—which are all significant pluses, especially considering the comfort and convenience they offer.

You’ll start at the Basilica of St. Sebastian Outside the Walls, where your guide will welcome you and help fit your bike. The journey begins on a stretch of the Appian Way that’s free of cars—set right in the countryside—providing a peaceful ride with amazing historical views.

Throughout the ride, your guide will point out Roman ruins and monuments, telling stories that bring the remnants of ancient life alive. The Parco degli Acquedotti offers a spectacular scene of ancient arches spanning the landscape, perfect for photos and soaking in the engineering brilliance of Rome’s aqueducts.

The visit to the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus is a highlight, with about 45 minutes inside to explore the underground tunnels. The ticket is included, removing any hassle of separate entry. Afterward, the ride concludes back at the starting point, giving you a full but relaxed experience.

The Ride: Terrain and Comfort

Most of the tour takes place on the Roman paving of the Via Appia Antica, which is well-maintained but not entirely smooth—there are cobblestones and uneven surfaces. Several reviews mention the e-bikes make tackling these surfaces easier, even for those with limited biking experience. One reviewer shared, “The e-mountain bikes were very manageable, and I was 62 years old and riding for the first time.”

That said, basic to medium biking skills are necessary, especially when navigating off-road or crossing park boundaries. Some parts of the route involve a bit of a thrill—bumpy sections or narrow paths—but guides are attentive and will show you the easiest routes to keep things enjoyable and safe.

Children over 12 can ride their own e-bikes, and children up to 139cm can join with special extensions. It’s a family-friendly option if your kids are comfortable on a bike, but the terrain and duration are better suited to those with some biking confidence.

Tour Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting Point and Start

The tour kicks off at the Basilica of St. Sebastian Outside the Walls, a peaceful place accessible by public transport. Your guide will meet you here, fitting you with your helmet and e-bike, and providing a brief safety and route overview.

Appian Way (Via Appia Antica)

This is the star of the show. Pedaling along the oldest road in Rome, you’ll travel through a landscape that feels worlds away from the city’s hustle. The two-hour cycle allows plenty of time to admire Roman ruins and enjoy the countryside. The route is primarily on a car-free section, making it safe and relaxing for most riders.

Aqueducts Park (Parco degli Acquedotti)

The next stop is one of the most striking parts of the tour: the ancient aqueducts. The arch structures stretch across vast fields and hills, offering a photography-worthy landscape. Visitors say this part is both breathtaking and educational.

Tor Fiscale Park

A quieter, less-visited spot where you can learn about Rome’s ancient water systems and enjoy tranquil natural surroundings. It’s a good place to pause and take in the scenery.

Catacombs of Saint Callixtus

The underground tunnels are the tour’s highlight for many. The guided walk inside provides insight into early Christian burial practices and Roman history, with tickets included to make it seamless.

End of Tour

The adventure wraps up back at the start point, leaving you with lasting impressions of Rome’s countryside and ancient engineering.

The Value of This Experience

At just under $90, this tour offers great value considering what it includes—an expertly guided ride, entrance to the catacombs, and the use of quality e-bikes and helmets. Reviews consistently laud the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, which enhances the overall experience. The chance to see less-crowded sites away from tourist crowds makes it a worthwhile alternative to traditional city tours.

Many travelers mention how accessible the e-bikes are, even for those with limited cycling experience. The tour strikes a balance between scenic relaxation and historical insight, making it suitable for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with outdoor activity.

Plus, the tour’s group size (up to 8 people) feels intimate enough to be personal but not overwhelming. The inclusion of rain ponchos indicates thoughtful planning, ensuring weather won’t spoil the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who:

• Enjoy outdoor activities and want a different way to explore Rome
• Are comfortable riding bikes and capable of handling some uneven surfaces
• Appreciate guided commentary and historical stories
• Want to escape the busy city and enjoy peaceful countryside views
• Are traveling with older children or teens who can ride e-bikes
• Seek a balance of adventure and education in their sightseeing

It’s less suited for those with limited biking skills or anyone wary of uneven terrain. While the e-bikes do make things easier, you’ll still need some basic comfort on a bike.

Common Questions About the Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 12 can ride their own e-bikes, and kids up to 139cm can participate with an extension. It’s great for families with older children who are comfortable on bikes, but younger or novice riders might find the terrain challenging.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and the guided visit inside the catacombs.

What’s included in the price?
You get an e-bike and helmet, a local guide, tickets to the catacombs, a visit to Aqueducts Park, a poncho in case of rain, and a Roma n Bike Card for discounts.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included and fitted at the start.

What about the terrain?
Most riding happens on the Roman paving of the Via Appia Antica, which is generally well-maintained but can be uneven. Off-road sections and crossing park boundaries involve some bumps, so basic biking skills are recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
It’s advisable to check the weather forecast. In case of rain, ponchos are provided, but severe weather could affect safety and comfort.

Is the tour safe?
The itinerary favors quiet roads with minimal traffic, and guides are always present to ensure your safety and comfort.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an active, scenic, and educational way to explore parts of Rome you might otherwise miss, this e-bike tour ticks all boxes. You’ll love the combination of countryside charm, ancient ruins, and expert storytelling. It’s a chance to experience Rome with a different perspective—laid-back, authentic, and full of history.

The tour is best suited for those who enjoy a bit of physical activity, appreciate guided insights, and want to see the city’s outskirts in a relaxed way. The inclusion of the catacombs adds a mysterious, slightly cooler element that many find memorable.

While it’s not perfect for absolute beginners or those wary of uneven terrain, the ease of the e-bikes makes it accessible for most active travelers. Overall, it’s a worthwhile outing for anyone looking to combine outdoor adventure with cultural discovery.

Happy exploring, and I hope you find as much joy in this experience as many others have!