San Clemente Basilica Underground Tour

From€10
1 hour
Province of Rome, Italy

About this activity

Delve into Rome's rich history with a guided tour of the Basilica of San Clemente, exploring its ancient underground levels and uncovering layers of history from medieval to Roman times.

Highlights

  • Explore ancient Roman ruins beneath the basilica
  • Discover layers of history from medieval to ancient times
  • Learn about early Christian art and architecture
  • See the Mithraic temple and frescoes
  • Experience a unique underground archaeological site

Full description

Step back in time with a guided tour of the Basilica of San Clemente, a unique site in Rome that reveals layers of history from medieval to ancient times. Beneath its 12th-century church lies a 4th-century basilica, and further below, a 1st-century Roman house. Explore these subterranean levels to discover early Christian art, a Mithraic temple, and ancient frescoes. This tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Rome's layered past, providing insights into its architectural evolution and cultural significance. Don't miss this opportunity to experience a hidden gem in the heart of the city.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour of Basilica of San Clemente
  • Access to ancient underground levels
  • Expert commentary on historical significance
  • Food and beverages

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • The tour is conducted in English; ensure you understand the language
  • Check the availability of tour slots on your desired date
  • Be aware that the tour may not be suitable for individuals with claustrophobia

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven surfaces
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique underground architecture
  • Note that the tour involves descending stairs; consider this if you have mobility concerns

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • A dress code is required to enter all the churches: knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women.
  • PETS ARE NOT ALLOWED
  • To download and use the app, we recommend using a smartphone produced in 2020 or later.
  • Headphones are recommended for optimal audio quality — bring your own.
  • Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled entry time.

Traveler reviews

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Rome Basilica di San Clemente self guided tour (audio only)

In Rome, we went to the Basilica di San Clemente and the self guided audio only tour. It was an excellent experience and it was really helpful having any information because we didn’t want to spend a huge amount of time but wanted some information. He ended up doing about a 45 minute tour, which was perfect. The audio only allowed us to skip ahead if we wanted to or play something over if you wanted to hear it again. One thing that could’ve been better is that we had to stop at the office to have the team (who were very helpful and gave us bottles of water) to help me download the app and get things set up for the particular tour. It would’ve been better if you had an easier way to simply have that app downloaded after I’ve made my purchase.

Michael_LSep 19, 2026VIATOR

Daniel at the travel...

Daniel at the travel agency was very helpful in setting all of us up on the digital app so we could do the self guided tour of the Basilica.

David_HMay 15, 2026VIATOR

Easy, Self-Guided Audio Tour with Good Information

It was a good audio tour of the underground area. Lots of history and good information. Picking up the tickets was very easy.

Melissa_RMay 3, 2026VIATOR

Audioguide

Unfortunately I was unable to pick up the audio guide before the visit to the basilica because I was late, but the Tour in the city provider was very understanding and reimbursed me.

X1690PKfredericdApr 28, 2026TRIPADVISOR

The Basilica is in...

The Basilica is in the works, the visit to the excavations is quite overwhelming, of these two hours no one warns you. We have been charged 28€ for each ticket and not even accompanied to the ticket, we have not given helmets, no kos have spoken in Spanish. Very bad everything for the high price paid, entrance to the excavation bought by libre are 10€

ROCIO_SApr 6, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

A dress code is required to enter all the churches: knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. PETS ARE NOT ALLOWED To download and use the app, we recommend using a smartphone produced in 2020 or later. Headphones are recommended for optimal audio quality — bring your own. Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled entry time.