Guided Tours

Papal Basilicas, St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs Tour with Transfers

Name: Papal Basilicas, St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs Tour with Transfers
Start: 2025-04-08T13:45:00
End: 2025-04-08T16:45:00
Location: Rome

Interiors of Lateran basilica in Rome, Italy

Group of tourists on a guided tour exploring the ancient Roman Basilicas and mysterious Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, Italy

Group of tourists on a Guided Tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, exploring ancient architecture and history

Take the spiritual path in Rome. From the papal basilicas of St. John Lateran and St. Mary Major, to the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian.

Visit the pope’s official seat, the stunning Basilica of St. Mary Major, and two ancient catacombs—all with expert insights and hassle-free transfers.

Kick things off at the Sancta Sanctorum, where you’ll find the Holy Stairs—believed to be the very steps Christ climbed before meeting Pontius Pilate.

Step inside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the pope’s home church, then take in the splendor of St. Mary Major perched on Esquiline Hill.

Go underground to explore the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian, where ancient faith, art, and history come alive.

Sit back and enjoy smooth transfers between stops while your guide shares the incredible stories behind each site.

Guided tour of the Holy Stairs at Sancta Sanctorum

Guided tour of St. John Lateran Archbasilica & St. Mary Major Basilica

Guided tour of St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs with entry

Expert English, Italian, or Spanish-speaking guide

Round-trip AC coach transfers from central Rome

You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Maria
5/5
Sep, 2024
It was a fantastic experience. The guide was a great professional and knowledgeable about the history of Rome. Both the catacombs and the major basilicas are a must see for anyone traveling to the Italian capital. A tour of 10
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Wendy
5/5
May, 2024
Our tour guy was excellent!!! Very knowledgeable and friendly!
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Discover holy relics upon Esquiline Hill...

Set off from the city center with your expert guide who will first lead you to the Holy Staircase. This long line of 28 marble steps are said to be the ones that Christ walked on while he was on his way to meet Pontius Pilate before his crucifixion. Then, head to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the oldest church in the West, with impressive sculptures and intricate interiors. Next up, the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Marvel at the 5th-century mosaics in the nave depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, as well as an intricately decorated altar that houses the relics of the Holy Manger, believed to be from the nativity scene.

And head into a Christian underworld around Rome!

Beneath the bustling streets and iconic landmarks lies an ancient Roman secret. Carved into soft volcanic rock, the catacombs served as both burial grounds and places of worship. Cruise from Rome along the Appian Way, a vital artery of the Roman Empire, under which the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian were built. Make your way through the underground maze where you'll encounter early Christian paintings, sketches, and sacred tombs, offering a unique glimpse into Rome's religious traditions and artistry.

What to bring

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring along a layer for chilly underground temperatures.

What's not allowed

Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: Large items, pets, food and beverages.

Photography and videography is prohibited inside the catacombs.

Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible, and not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues.

Additional information

On Wednesdays, your visit to Saint Callixtus will be replaced with the neighboring catacombs of Domitilla.

Please arrive on time, as latecomers will not be accommodated.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

This experience offers hotel transfers, in case the participants do not wish to opt for hotel transfers they can reach the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your tour.

Hotel transfers

This ticket includes hotel pickups and drop-offs from selected hotels in central Rome.

In the next step of booking, please specify the name and address of your hotel.

On the day of your tour, please report at your hotel lobby 10-15 min prior to your scheduled departure.

If your hotel does not have a lobby, please wait at the entrance of the hotel.

Meeting point (If not opted for hotel transfers)

Please check your final voucher for the meeting point details and specific instructions.