Highlights
- Discover the ancient Roman city of Ostia Antica on a guided tour from Rome
- Laugh along with your witty native English-speaking guide
- Explore the ruins of Ostia Antica, including the baths, amphitheater and temples
- Less crowded with small and private groups. The city is yours to discover
- Visit Ostia Beach after the tour for a swim or lunch
Description
Ostia Antica is a stunningly preserved ancient Roman city—one of the best in Italy. During our time together, we will bring the ancient city to life as we pick our way through 2000-year-old apartment complexes, visit a bygone restaurant, and learn about bizarre religious cults.
Why Ostia Antica instead of Pompeii? There are three reasons, 1) Ostia is much closer and easier to visit (25-minute train ride); 2) Ostia is a better example of a real, working class town than Pompeii; 3) visiting Ostia has a lower carbon footprint than visiting Pompeii, and given the crowds at the latter and general 'undiscovered' feeling of the former, it's a more enjoyable, enriching experience.
We begin our Ostia Antica Tour in Rome, at Piramide Metro B station, with a short 25-minute train ride toward the Mediterranean Sea. Along the way, we will discuss the regional geography of the area, Ostia's role as Rome's port, and the historic background leading up to the town's rise in the Imperial era. On site, we will spend over 2.5 hours combing through the ruins, which include some of the best examples of baths, a fantastic amphitheater, and several Mithraic temples, not to mention a forum with temples. If you choose you are welcome to remain at the end to continue exploring the site on your own. Bring something to picnic, eat at the on site Caffe or take the train a few more stops out to the beach for a swim and lots of shops and restaurants.
Includes
Round-trip train tickets from Rome
Entrance tickets to Ostia Antica
Live English mother-tongue tour guide
Excludes
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Important Information
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved
Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated
Be prepared for a 25-minute train ride from Rome
You are welcome to stay and explore more on your own after the tour ends
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund