Thing to do
Trastevere
Rome's 13th rione, across the Tiber from the centre, is a web of cobbled lanes, ancient churches and trattorias that comes alive in the evening.
Appian Way Regional Park
Established in 1988, this regional park protects more than 16 km of the ancient Appian Way along with catacombs, aqueducts and the Caffarella valley.
At a glance
- Type
- Archaeological park and walking route
- Area
- Appia Antica, Rome, Italy
- Official site
- parcoappiaantica.it
- Last checked
- October 23, 2026
Good to know
- Bike hire
- Catacombs
- Walking and cycling routes
Why we recommend it
The Via Appia Antica was one of ancient Rome's great roads, and the park that protects it covers around 4,580 hectares of countryside on the city's southern edge. Walking or cycling along the old basalt paving takes you past tombs including that of Caecilia Metella, the Christian catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano, and side valleys such as the Caffarella. Further east, the Parco degli Acquedotti is crossed by the arches of the Aqua Claudia and Aqua Felix.
It is a welcome contrast to the crowded centre. Bikes can be hired through the park, and sturdy shoes help on the uneven stones. Bring water and sun protection, as shade is patchy, and check opening times for individual catacombs and monuments before setting out.
Reviewed by Lifestylemetro · Details checked October 23, 2026
Appian Way Regional Park FAQs
What can you see on the Appian Way?
Ancient tombs such as Caecilia Metella's, the catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano, the Caffarella valley and the aqueducts park.
Can you hire bikes?
Yes, the park runs a bike hire service; check its website for the current pick-up point.