Catacombs of Rome (Catacombe di Roma)

The basics

Five of the burial chambers are currently open to visitors: the Catacombs of Domitilla, the Catacombs of San Callisto (the site of the Crypt of the Popes), the Catacombs of Priscilla, the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, and the Catacombs of Sant'Agnese. 

A trip to the underground cemeteries is often combined with a visit to the Roman countryside and the ancient Appian Way, either on foot or by bike. Families may prefer to choose a Catacombs of Rome tour that's tailored for kids, while those interested in supernatural occurrences may prefer a ghost tour. Walking tours that include skip-the-line Catacombs of Rome tickets are great for beating the crowds.

For an exclusive after-hours experience, tour the Capuchin Crypt at night when it's otherwise closed to the public. An English-speaking guide explains past burial rituals and gives historical context to the sights.

Things to know before you go

• Due to the site's delicate nature, travelers cannot visit the Ancient Roman catacombs independently. All visits must be part of a guided group or private tour.

• Tours and group visits can be arranged upon arrival at the most popular catacombs, but visits must be booked in advance to the less-visited spots.

• Catacomb tours are not recommended for travelers who get claustrophobic.

• Cover your shoulders and thighs before entering these Christian catacombs. You may want to bring a light jacket, too, as it can get cold underground.

• The Catacombs of Rome are not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

How to get there

You'll find Roman Catacombs on Via Appia Antica, Via Ostiense, Via Labicana, Via Salaria, and other roads. They can be reached by public transport on various metro and bus lines. Many tours to the catacombs depart from Piazza Barberini, in the heart of the city center.

When to get to there

Most of Rome's crypts and catacombs are open to the public year-round from morning until early evening, with a short break for lunch. They're typically closed on Sundays and some holidays. Limited access to the catacombs makes booking in advance a good idea, especially around Easter and between May and September, when the Eternal City swarms with travelers. The cool catacombs make for a great break from Italy's summer heat, but the quieter off-season months are recommended for thinner crowds.

Rome’s strangest sight?

Perhaps the most interesting sight in the catacombs is the Capuchin Crypt, or Bone Chapel, an area containing—and decorated with—the bones of 4,000 Capuchin friars. Crypt rooms are themed by different types of bones, from skulls to pelvis and leg bones.

Can you tour the Catacombs of Rome?

Yes. Rome is home to more than 60 catacombs, but many are unexcavated. You can tour six: the Catacombs of St. Callistus, the Catacombs of St. Sebastian, the Catacombs of St. Domitilla, the Catacombs of St. Priscilla, the Catacombs of St. Agnes, and the Catacombs of St. Marcellinus and Peter.

Do you need a tour for the Catacombs of Rome?

Yes. You can’t explore any of the Rome catacombs independently. Tickets include a guided tour: book ahead to reserve your spot. St. Callistus, St. Sebastian, and St. Domitilla are close together, as are St. Priscilla and St. Agnes; St. Marcellinus and St. Peter lie in a different area from either group.

Is there a dress code for the Catacombs of Rome?

Yes. All the catacombs of Rome are considered sacred sites, while many are entered through churches. All genders should cover shoulders, upper arms, and legs to the knee to show respect. Temperatures are about 55–60°F (13–16°C) year-round, and surfaces are uneven, so bring a layer and wear practical shoes.

Can you take pictures in the Roman Catacombs?

No. Photos and videos are not allowed in any of the six open Roman catacombs: the Catacombs of St. Callistus, the Catacombs of St. Sebastian, the Catacombs of St. Domitilla, the Catacombs of St. Priscilla, the Catacombs of St. Agnes, and the Catacombs of St. Marcellinus and Peter.

Is it cold in the Catacombs of Rome?

Yes. The catacombs maintain an even temperature year-round, but when the mercury can hit 88°F (31°C) outside in summer, they’ll feel particularly cold. Temperatures range from about 55°F (13°C) to about 60°F (16°C), so even though tours last under an hour, you’ll need a layer at warmer times of the year.

Are there restrooms in the Catacombs of Rome?

Yes. There are no bathroom facilities in the underground catacombs themselves—go before you start your tour. But the Catacombs of St. Callistus, Catacombs of St. Priscilla (Catacombe di Priscilla), Catacombs of St. Domitilla (Catacombe di Santa Domitilla), and Catacombs of St. Sebastian (Catacombe San Sebastiano) have restrooms up above.

Ways to explore

Five ancient Christian burial sites are currently open to visitors: the Catacombs of Domitilla, the Catacombs of San Callisto (the site of the Crypt of the Popes), the Catacombs of Priscilla, the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, and the Catacombs of Sant’Agnese. A trip to these underground complexes is often combined with a visit to the Roman countryside and the ancient Appian Way, either on foot or by bike. Families may prefer to choose a Catacombs of Rome tour that’s tailored for kids, while those interested in supernatural occurrences may prefer a ghost tour. Walking tours that include skip-the-line Catacombs of Rome tickets are great for beating the crowds.

Pro tip: The bone-adorned Capuchin Crypt isn’t strictly a catacomb, but visits here are often included in tours of the Catacombs of Rome. In addition to an eerie clutch of chapels, the site houses a Caravaggio painting.

Accessibility

These ancient underground sites are not accessible to wheelchair users.

Age limits

Though there is no minimum age limit, these slightly claustrophobic burial sites may not be suitable for younger children.

What to pack

Wrap to cover your shoulders if wearing a sleeveless shirt; camera for sites that allow photography

What to wear

Clothing that covers knees and shoulders, comfortable shoes, a jacket or sweater for cooler underground temperatures

Not allowed

Photography (in some catacombs), bare shoulders and knees, touching the art and artifacts

Amenities

Amenities vary, but all sites have restrooms and official guides for mandatory tours.

Address

You’ll find Roman Catacombs on Via Appia Antica, Via Ostiense, Via Labicana, Via Salaria, and other roads. They can be reached by public transport on various metro and bus lines. Many tours to the catacombs depart from Piazza Barberini, in the heart of the city center.

Driving

Though there is on-site parking at several catacombs (the Catacombs of Domitilla, San Callisto, and San Sebastiano have on-site parking; Priscilla and Sant’Agnese have street parking), driving in Rome is stressful. Skip the car and reach the sites with public transportation, a private driver or taxi, or a bike tour.

Public transportation

Most catacombs require several metro and bus connections from central Rome. To reach the most visited Catacombs of San Callisto, take Metro A toward Anagnina, getting off at San Giovanni (in Laterano). From here, catch bus 218 toward Ardeatina and get off at the Fosse Ardeatine.

Best times to visit

Visitors can only enter the catacombs as part of an official guided tour, so tourist numbers are always limited. These underground sites are ideal for visiting on a rainy day.

Best days to visit

Tours often sell out on weekends or holidays when Rome fills with visitors. Join a guided tour during the week for a better chance of finding availability.

Best months to visit

The catacomb sites often close each year during the low-season months of January and February, so check individual websites for updated calendars.