Discover the beauty and history of Rome with the Appian way e-bike tour
Why visit the Ancient Appia way?
Rome is a well of history and antiquity. One of the oldest streets in this beautiful city is definitely the Ancient Appian Way. At 2300 years old, it bears the marks of the past. It is also called Regina Viarum, or queen of roads. The “Via Appia Antica” was born at the end of the 4th century BC when in 312 the censor Appius Claudius Blind, the same man to whom we owe the city’s first aqueduct, was appointed. Crossing it you can enjoy the view of the ruins that surround it. The Appian way will immerse you in incredible scenery. In fact, part of Rome’s history took place here, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, up to the creation of Pope Pius IX’s museum in the 19th century.
The fascinating history of the Appian way
History sees this road as witness to many historical events. It was created with the primary function of consolidating Rome’s rule over southern Italy and ensuring the rapid passage of troops. It soon became an important trade route, as well as a faster and safer way that favoured relations with Greek culture. Rebel slaves led by the famous Spartacus were crucified on this road. In 71 BC In the Middle Ages, the Appian Way also became the route of the Crusaders. Only recently in 1988, the Appia Antica Regional Park was established. This was to preserve the historical and cultural heritage, from Porta San Sebastiano to the slopes of the Alban Hills.
What route to take by bike to best enjoy the Ancient Appian way
The route of the queen of roads, to be taken on foot or more comfortably by electric bike, starts at Porta Capena. Not far from the Baths of Caracalla and Circus Maximus. You will find yourself walking along an initial stretch of road lined with buildings of post-Renaissance Rome as far as the monumental Porta di San Sebastiano.
After a short distance you can admire buildings from various eras: the Church of San Cesareo In Palatio, the Casina del Cardinal Bessarione and the archaeological area of the Sepolcro degli Scipioni. Not far from there is also the Columbarium of Pomponius Hylas .
At the crossroads between the Ancient Appian way and the Ardeatina is the Sepulchre of Priscilla .
And how can we fail to mention the Church of ‘Domine Quo Vadis’ of medieval origins, located a little further on . According to tradition, in this place, Jesus appeared to the apostle Peter, leaving footprints on a marble slab that are still visible today.
At the height of this church and at the crossroads with Ardeatina street, a long stretch of Roman road dotted this year with ancient monuments to be admired as you drive along the side of the roadway
Exploring the catacombs, a unique experience
These places are also home to the 12-metre-deep Roman Puzolana Quarry. An environment that remained closed to and unexplored for a long time. In addition to the quarry, there are the catacombs of San Callisto to visit, and especially the catacombs of San Sebastiano. They are perfectly preserved and among the most important in Rome. Linked to the history of early Christianity and the first martyred saints, they are a priceless heritage. If you want to take a special tour with an e-bike guide, we recommend the Appia street underground tours and catacombs by e-bike .
Not far away, (on Seven Churches Street) the Catacombs of Domitilla , inside which is the only existing semi-underground basilica in Rome. The state-owned section of the Appia way runs for a length of about 12 km from house number 195 to Frattocchie, a fraction of the municipality of Marino.
Travelling along the Appian way from the first to the ninth mile, one can enjoy the beautiful Roman countryside. The Appian Way also passes through the famous Aqueduct Park, an important biological corridor in the centre of Rome, rich in natural beauty and history.
Why is it worth taking a bike tour of the Ancient Appian way?
One of the most comfortable and practical ways to enjoy the history and beauty of the Appian way is definitely to use e-bikes. Cycling along this street on an electric bike with pedal assistance is really the best choice for many reasons. First and foremost, because it is undoubtedly one of the most evocative routes we offer.
A unique environment and evocative nature frame this tour, which is rich in historical, cultural and artistic evidence. Furthermore, the Ancient Appian way bike tour takes place for the most part in an area that is not accessible to cars. This also makes it one of the safest and quietest routes. But in addition to enjoying the beauty of the panorama, a competent guide will tell you unique facts and historical facts about the eternal city.
This tour is really suitable for everyone, families with children, couples or the curious!
Book your Appian Way e-Bike Tour!
Tour Itinerary
Porta San Sebastiano
Caffarella Park
Nymphaeum of Egeria
Aqueduct Park
Villa of the Quintili
Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella
Circus of Maxentius
Baths of Caracalla
What is included in the Appian way bike tour
High quality e-bike
Guide: Italian/English (to Spanish/French)
Helmet (bandana on request)
Child seat for children up to 25 kg
Bicycle trailer for children