If you’re looking for a unique experience in Rome, we highly recommend exploring the Appian Way Regional Park— one of the most fascinating and peaceful green spaces in the city. Located just steps from the Colosseum and Circus Maximus, this park stretches along the ancient Via Appia Antica, offering an unforgettable blend of Roman history, archaeology, nature, and tranquility.
🚶♂️ Start Your Appian Way Walking Tour from Porta San Sebastiano
To follow this short self-guided walking itinerary, we suggest starting at PORTA SAN SEBASTIANO, one of the main entrances to the park. This is the largest and best-preserved gate of the Aurelian Walls.
Here you can visit the MUSEUM OF THE WALLS and walk approx. 350 meters along the wall’s walkway, with scenic views over the park and the city.
✝️ Stop 1 – Church of Domine Quo Vadis
After leaving the gate behind, you’ll come across a replica of the first milestone of the Appian Way embedded in a villa’s wall. A few minutes further, stop at the CHURCH OF DOMINE QUO VADIS, named after the episode in which Saint Peter, fleeing Rome, meets Jesus and asks, “Where are you going, Lord?” Jesus replies that he is returning to be crucified again. Peter then decides to go back and face his martyrdom.
Inside the church, you’ll find a stone with the footprints of Christ — a symbolic memory of this encounter (the original is kept in the Basilica of San Sebastiano).
⛪ Stop 2 – Catacombs and Basilica of San Sebastiano
We recommend continuing along the quiet private path of the CATACOMBS OF SAN CALLISTO, walking past them, and stopping at the Basilica of San Sebastiano fuori le Mura.
According to tradition, this was where the bodies of Saints Peter and Paul were temporarily kept during persecutions. Inside the church, you can admire:
The famous Salvator Mundi, the final work by BERNINI
One of the arrows that struck Saint Sebastian
The column of his martyrdom
🏺 Stop 3 – Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella
Following the third mile of the Appian Way, stop at the MAUSOLEUM OF CECILIA METELLA, which you will likely have already seen from afar. It’s one of the most iconic monuments of the park — elegant, imposing, and full of history.
Visiting this site also gives access to the CAETANI CASTEL, built in the 14th century, and the Church of San Nicola, with the added bonus of an immersive 3D experience.
👉 Click here for ticket prices and information about visiting the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella
Before turning into Via di Cecilia Metella, don’t miss the opportunity to walk on the original Roman paving — the famous basoli — and literally feel the history beneath your feet.
🌿 Explore the Caffarella Valley – Final Stop
At the end of Via di Cecilia Metella, take care at the intersection, and continue along Via dell’Almone, where you’ll find the entrance gate to the CAFFARELLA VALLEY — a 190-hectare public area rich in natural and historic charm.
Its name derives from the Caffarelli family, who owned the land and built the CASALE DELLA VACCARECCIA here in the 16th century — still preserved today and the final destination of your walk.
Inside the valley, multiple trails wind through meadows, woods, and archaeological remains. It’s easy to get disoriented, so we suggest using Google Maps or downloading this printable map.
🐑 Feel the Spirit of the Roman Countryside
Once you reach the Casale, you’ll get a taste of what the Roman countryside once looked like. With green pastures, sheep, and rabbits, it’s one of the most peaceful places in Rome — ideal for nature lovers, families, and those looking for an alternative Rome experience.
🚇 How to Return:
To exit the valley and reach the nearest metro stop (Metro A – Colli Albani), follow directions on Google Maps or on your paper map to “Casa del Parco – Largo Tacchi Venturi”.
✅ Why Take This Appian Way Walking Tour?
This short walking itinerary in the Appian Way Park is a must-do for anyone visiting Rome. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for quiet, off-the-beaten-path things to do in Rome, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of culture, green space, and local charm.
📌 Useful Info:
🕒 Duration: approx. 1h 15 min (without stops), 2h 30 min (with stops)
🚶♂️ Level: Easy – a mix of cobblestones, paved roads, dirt paths, and Roman basoli
🚌 Getting There:
From Piazza Venezia, Circo Massimo, or the Colosseum: Bus 118
From San Giovanni: Bus 218
Get off at: Appia Antica / Porta San Sebastiano
