Rome Catacombs & Bone Chapel Tour with Transfers

Summary

Rome’s secret catacombs, bone chapels and ancient basilicas beneath the city streets

You’ll walk through Rome’s shadowy side—from the chilling Capuchin Bone Chapel to labyrinthine Christian catacombs and down into hidden basilica ruins with an expert guide. Expect quiet moments in cool tunnels, stories you won’t forget, and glimpses of ancient faith that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to feel so cold the moment we stepped into the Capuchin Crypt. It’s strange—one minute you’re dodging scooters on Via Veneto, then suddenly you’re staring at chandeliers made of bones. Our guide, Marco, just let us stand there for a bit before he started talking. I remember catching a faint whiff of incense mixed with something older, maybe dust or time itself. He explained how 4,000 monks ended up decorating these walls. I tried to imagine what kind of conversations led to that decision—Marco joked that monks had a dark sense of humor.

The coach ride out to the catacombs was quieter than I thought it’d be. Maybe everyone was still thinking about those skulls stacked so neatly. When we got to the Catacombs of Rome, Marco handed out little flashlights (he called them “torches,” which made me smile). The tunnels felt endless—soft volcanic rock under your shoes and this echo that makes every footstep sound important. He pointed out faded frescoes and told us how early Christians hid down here when things got dangerous above ground. At one point he asked if anyone was claustrophobic—I wasn’t sure until I saw how narrow some passages were.

Last stop was Basilica di San Martino ai Monti. From outside it looks like any other church in Rome, but inside it’s layers on layers—Baroque frescoes up top, ancient mosaics below, then even deeper ruins underneath. There’s this spot where sunlight sneaks through a tiny window and lands right on a cracked mosaic floor; I stood there longer than I meant to. Marco talked about secret worshippers gathering here centuries ago, which made the whole place feel heavier somehow. I kept thinking about all those lives stacked beneath our feet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Rome's crypts and catacombs

• Visit Capuchin Crypt and Bone Chapel
• Descend into Christian Catacombs
• Tour Basilica of San Martino ai Monti

Top questions

How long does the Roman Crypts & Catacombs tour last?

The standard tour typically lasts around 3 hours; after-hours tours are about 2.5 hours.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

No, but transfers between sites are provided by private air-conditioned coach.

Are photos allowed inside the Capuchin Crypt?

No photos can be taken inside the venue during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for people with claustrophobia?

No, it is not recommended for those who suffer from claustrophobia due to narrow underground spaces.

What languages are available for guides?

The tour is offered in English or Spanish depending on your selection at booking.

Are there any dress codes for this tour?

Yes, knees and shoulders must be covered for entry into some sites on this tour.

Is public transportation nearby for meeting points?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Can children join this catacombs tour?

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; moderate fitness is recommended for all travelers.

What’s included

Your day includes transfers between sites in a private air-conditioned coach, entry tickets for both the Capuchin Crypt and Museum as well as the Catacombs of Rome, plus entrance to Basilica di San Martino ai Monti (unless you choose the after-hours option). An expert English or Spanish-speaking guide leads you through each site’s stories and history along the way.