During my recent trip to Rome, I wanted to explore something beyond the Colosseum and Vatican Museums. That’s when I found The Original Roman Crypts and Catacombs Tour with Transfers on Viator — and it turned out to be one of the most fascinating and unforgettable experiences of my entire visit. In this post, I’ll share my personal review, insider tips, and a full photo gallery so you know exactly what to expect before you book.
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick takeaway: This tour is a must-do if you want to discover Rome’s mysterious underground world, skip the long lines, and learn from incredibly knowledgeable guides — all without worrying about transportation.
About the Tour
This small-group guided tour (usually under 20 people) lasts about 3.5 hours and includes:
- Skip-the-line entry to Rome’s most famous underground sites.
- Comfortable transfers between locations in a climate-controlled vehicle.
- A passionate, expert guide who brings history to life.
On my tour, we visited:
- The Catacombs of Rome – Ancient Christian burial tunnels dating back nearly 2,000 years.
- The Capuchin Crypt – A hauntingly beautiful chapel decorated with the bones of Capuchin monks.
- Basilica of San Martino ai Monti – A hidden gem with layers of history beneath the church floor.
Everything is well-timed, with no stress about finding your own way between sites — the van drops you off right at each entrance.
My Experience
The adventure started at the meeting point in central Rome. Our guide introduced herself, gave us a quick rundown of the day, and we hopped into a comfortable minibus. The ride alone was relaxing — air-conditioned and a nice break from walking in the Roman heat.
The first stop was the Catacombs. Descending into the cool, dimly lit tunnels felt like stepping back in time. The walls are lined with ancient burial niches, and our guide explained the fascinating history of early Christian burial practices and the symbolism carved into the stone. It was humbling to think about how many centuries of history lay beneath our feet.
Next was the Basilica of San Martino ai Monti. On the surface, it’s a beautiful but modest church. But underground, we explored archaeological layers from Roman times — the guide showed us remnants of ancient walls and frescoes that most visitors to Rome never see.
The highlight for me was the Capuchin Crypt. It’s unlike anything else in Rome — the bones of thousands of monks are arranged in elaborate patterns, forming chandeliers, arches, and wall designs. It’s eerie but also oddly peaceful, with a plaque reminding visitors: “What you are now, we once were; what we are now, you will be.”
Throughout the tour, our guide shared stories, answered questions, and made sure we had plenty of time for photos (where allowed). The pacing was perfect — never rushed, but also no wasted time.
Photo Gallery
Here are some of my favorite moments from the tour:
Tips for Taking This Tour
- Dress modestly – Shoulders and knees should be covered for religious sites.
- Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll walk on uneven surfaces and stairs.
- Bring a light jacket – The catacombs stay cool year-round.
- Don’t bring large bags – Storage is limited and some sites don’t allow them.
- Arrive early – Gives you time to find the meeting point without stress.
How to Book
This tour sells out frequently, especially during peak season. If you’re visiting Rome and want to experience the city’s mysterious underground world, I recommend booking in advance through my trusted partner, Viator.
Final Thoughts
Rome is full of incredible sights, but The Original Roman Crypts and Catacombs Tour offers a unique perspective that most tourists miss. Between the history, the atmosphere, and the expert guidance, it’s an experience I’ll never forget — and one I think every curious traveler should have on their itinerary.
If you love history, mystery, and a little bit of the macabre, you won’t regret booking this tour. And with transfers included, it’s one of the easiest and most enriching half-day excursions you can take in the Eternal City.
