Rome EBike Tour: Appian Way, Catacombs & Roman Aqueducts

Exploring Rome’s ancient wonders has never been easier. This electric bike tour along the Appian Way promises an unforgettable adventure, taking participants through iconic sites like the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus and the majestic Roman aqueducts. With electric-assist bicycles, the tour caters to all fitness levels, ensuring a personalized experience for up to 10 travelers. Discover the city’s rich history, learn about breathtaking landscapes, and uncover hidden gems that many visitors miss. Are you ready to embark on this captivating journey?

Key Points

• Electric-assisted bicycle tour spanning 17 miles along the Ancient Appian Way, covering historic Roman sites like the Aurelian Walls and Circus of Maxentius.
• Option for longer tour including a visit to the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, an ancient underground burial site.
• Small-group format limited to 10 participants, providing a personalized and immersive experience exploring Rome’s ancient past.
• Tour includes necessary equipment like electric-assist bicycles, helmets, and water bottles, ensuring a comfortable and safe adventure.
• Highly rated with a 99% positive score from over 1,500 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and scenic biking experience.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The electric-assist bicycle tour along the Ancient Appian Way in Rome allows visitors to explore the city’s rich historical sites.

This guided tour covers ruins of the Aurelian Walls, the Circus of Maxentius, and ancient Roman aqueducts. Guests can choose between a shorter or longer duration option, with the longer tour including a guided visit to the 2nd-century catacombs.

The small-group format, limited to 10 participants, ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide. Highly recommended by travelers, the tour has earned a Badge of Excellence with an impressive 99% positive rating across over 1,500 reviews.

Tour Details and Itinerary

The tour covers approximately 17 miles (27 km), with 60% of the riding taking place off-road.

Key stops include Porta San Sebastiano, the Appian Way, Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, Circus of Maxentius, and the Park of the Aqueducts.

Participants will also visit the Thermal Baths of Caracalla and various archaeological parks.

The tour is available in two durations: 4 hours (short) or 6 hours (long), with variations on specific days.

Regardless of the duration, travelers can expect an immersive experience exploring ancient Roman sites by electric-assist bicycle.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Ebike Tour in Rome includes the top-quality CANNONDALE E-Bike, helmet, guide, handlebar bag, biodegradable water bottle, hotel pickup/drop-off, and gratuities.

While lunch isn’t included, there are options available for purchase during breaks. The tour excludes food and drinks, but the guide ensures safety with mandatory helmet use and carefully planned routes to minimize traffic.

Participants must have a moderate fitness level, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Children under 1 year aren’t allowed, but other age restrictions apply, with options for child seats and extensions available.

Participant Requirements and Policies

A moderate physical fitness level is required for participants, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Children under 1 year aren’t allowed, while those aged 1-4 can ride in a child seat and ages 5-8 can use a child extension. Riders aged 9 and above can cycle independently.

The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants, and may be canceled if the minimum isn’t met. This ensures a personalized experience and proper management of the group size.

• Moderate fitness level required
• Accessible for various age groups
• Minimum group size needed for tour to proceed

Traveler Experiences and Reviews

Positive feedback from travelers highlights the expertise and safety consciousness of the tour guides.

Tourists praise the scenic views, ancient sites, and enjoyable biking experience along the Ancient Appian Way. Many highlight how the electric-assist bicycles make the tour accessible for various fitness levels.

One reviewer describes it as a "must-do experience in Rome." With 99% of travelers recommending the tour and a Badge of Excellence, it’s clear this is a top-rated activity that delivers on its promises.

Small group sizes ensure personal attention, allowing participants to fully enjoy the history and beauty of ancient Rome.

Exploring the Ancient Appian Way

What makes the Ancient Appian Way such a captivating destination? This ancient Roman road, dating back to the 4th century BC, offers a unique window into the past.

As cyclists glide along the well-preserved sections, they’ll be struck by:

• The sheer scale and engineering prowess of the road, which was built to last centuries.
• The sense of history, with ruins and landmarks from the Roman empire lining the route.
• The serene, pastoral scenery, a stark contrast to the bustling modern city.

Exploring the Appian Way by e-bike allows visitors to cover more ground and enjoy the timeless allure of this iconic Roman thoroughfare.

Discovering the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus

As cyclists venture deeper into the heart of the Appian Way, they’ll have the chance to explore the extraordinary Catacombs of Saint Callixtus.

This vast underground cemetery dates back to the 2nd century AD and served as the burial place for early Christians.

Descending into the dimly lit catacombs, visitors will discover an intricate network of tunnels, chambers, and alcoves adorned with ancient frescoes and inscriptions.

The longer tour option includes a guided visit, allowing cyclists to learn about the site’s rich history and significance as an important part of Rome’s Christian heritage.

Venturing through this underground labyrinth offers a unique and immersive experience.

Marveling at the Roman Aqueducts

Towering structures of brick and stone, the Roman aqueducts stand as testament to the engineering prowess of the ancient world.

As the tour winds through the scenic Park of the Aqueducts, visitors are awestruck by these magnificent feats of construction:

• Spanning miles, the aqueducts carried a constant flow of fresh water to supply the bustling city of Rome.
• Designed with precise gradients, the aqueducts relied on gravity to transport water, an ingenious solution without the need for pumps.
• These architectural marvels represent the Roman Empire’s commitment to innovation, infrastructure, and the well-being of its citizens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Electric Bikes Easy to Operate?

The electric bikes are easy to operate, with the motor providing a boost to help riders navigate the tour’s off-road terrain. Travelers of various fitness levels can enjoy the ride with minimal effort.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Bikes Instead?

No, participants can’t bring their own bikes. The tour provides top-quality electric-assist bikes, which are easy to operate and make the extensive riding more accessible. Guests must use the provided bikes for safety and logistical reasons.

Is There an Age Limit for the Child Policy?

The child policy allows infants under 1 year old not to participate, while children ages 1-4 can ride for free on a child seat, and those 5-8 can use a child extension. Kids 9 and up can ride independently.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a minimum requirement of 4 participants. If fewer than 4 people sign up, the tour may be cancelled. There are no refunds if the tour is cancelled due to low participation.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

There are no special discounts or offers mentioned for this tour. However, the tour does include several inclusions like the e-bike, helmet, guide, and more to provide a comprehensive and convenient experience for participants.

The Sum Up

The electric bike tour along the Ancient Appian Way offers an immersive and unique way to experience Rome’s iconic ancient sites. With electric-assist bikes, the tour caters to various fitness levels, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. The combination of scenic off-road biking and expert guidance ensures a personalized and memorable adventure through the city’s rich historical heritage.