The Appian Way: a complete overview

Imagine walking on the same stones that Roman legions and early Christians once walked. Welcome to the Appian Way—Rome’s ancient queen of roads. More than just a scenic path through the Roman countryside, the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) is a living monument to the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Stretching over 350 miles, this legendary road was once the empire’s most strategic military and economic artery.

The Appian Way remains one of the oldest and most well-preserved roads of antiquity. For centuries, it was the gateway to the south of Italy, where armies marched, traders journeyed, and early Christians found refuge in its catacombs.

Today, it stands as an open-air museum—perfect for those seeking a deeper, more authentic experience of Rome’s history beyond the usual tourist paths.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of scenic walks, or simply curious about ancient Rome, an Appian Way tour is a must for your Roman itinerary.

In this complete overview of the Appian Way, we’ll explore:

The fascinating history of the Appian Way
What makes it so special for modern-day travelers
The Appian Way catacombs and their early Christian legacy
The best ways to visit—whether by foot, bike, or with a guided Appian Way tour

What is the Appian Way?

The Appian Way—or Via Appia Antica in Italian—is one of the oldest and most iconic roads of the ancient Roman world. Built in 312 BC by the Roman censor Appius Claudius Caecus, this revolutionary road earned the nickname Regina Viarum, the “Queen of Roads,” thanks to its strategic importance and impressive engineering.

Originally constructed to connect Rome to Capua, a key city in southern Italy, the Appian Way was later extended all the way to Brindisi, opening a vital route to the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire. This allowed Rome to move legions, supplies, and communication with unprecedented speed—paving the way (literally) for imperial expansion.

The road itself was a marvel of engineering. Made of large basalt stones, perfectly aligned and tightly packed, it was built to last—and it did. Over two thousand years later, long stretches of the original road are still intact, and in some places, you can walk directly on the same stones once used by Julius Caesar’s troops, Roman senators, and early Christian pilgrims.

How much of the Appian Way still exists?

More than just a means of travel, the Appian Way Rome symbolized the strength and reach of the empire. Today, it remains a powerful reminder of the ingenuity, ambition, and enduring legacy of Ancient Rome.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Appian Way is just how much of it still survives today. While the full road once stretched over 350 miles (563 kilometers), large portions remain remarkably well-preserved—especially in and around Rome.

The most accessible and atmospheric stretch lies within the Appia Antica Regional Park (Parco Regionale dell'Appia Antica), just a short distance from the city center. Here, you’ll find long, uninterrupted segments of the original Roman road, where the ancient basalt stones—worn smooth by centuries of footfalls, chariot wheels, and military boots—are still clearly visible.

This section of the Appian Way Rome offers a rare chance to experience history in its raw, untouched form. Towering cypress trees, crumbling aqueducts, Roman tombs, and Christian catacombs line the road, creating an evocative journey through more than two millennia of history.

Where is the Appian Way today?

The Appian Way still begins right in the heart of modern Rome. Its starting point is near Porta San Sebastiano, one of the best-preserved gates in the Aurelian Walls, just southeast of the Colosseum. From here, the road gently winds out of the city into the Roman countryside, passing through the serene and historic Appia Antica Regional Park.

So, where does the Appian Way start and end? The original route began in Rome and stretched all the way to Brindisi, a port city on the Adriatic coast in southern Italy. This strategic endpoint made it a vital link between the capital and the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire, including Greece, Egypt, and beyond.

Today, while some parts of the original road are lost to time or modern development, significant stretches remain intact—especially in and around Rome, where travelers can follow the same ancient path that once carried legions, merchants, and pilgrims toward the empire’s farthest frontiers.

How Long Is the Appian Way?

The Appian Way length is truly impressive: stretching approximately 350 miles (563 kilometers) from Rome all the way to Brindisi, it was one of the longest and most strategic roads of the Roman Empire. While much of it lies beyond the city, the section closest to Rome, particularly through the Appia Antica Regional Park, is well-preserved and ideal for a day trip.

This portion—roughly 10 miles (16 kilometers)—is open to pedestrians and cyclists, offering visitors a chance to walk, bike, or tour along the same route once used by Roman generals, ancient travelers, and Christian pilgrims.

Is the Appian Way Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Appian Way Rome is unlike anything you’ll find in the bustling historic center. Here, you're surrounded by peaceful countryside, shaded by ancient cypress and pine trees, with panoramic views of ruins that date back over two millennia. It feels like stepping into a living postcard of ancient Rome.

Highlights along the way include:

The haunting catacombs of early Christians
Majestic Roman aqueducts
Iconic tombs such as the Tomb of Cecilia Metella

This is a place where time slows down, perfect for anyone seeking to connect with the spiritual and historical soul of Rome.

Did Paul Walk on the Appian Way?

According to the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 28:13–15), Saint Paul walked along the Appian Way on his final journey to Rome as a prisoner. Christian followers came to meet him at the Three Taverns, one of the stops along the road, to accompany him into the city.

This powerful biblical moment links the Appian Way not only to imperial Rome, but also to the early days of Christianity—making it an especially moving site for spiritual travelers and history lovers alike.

How to Get to the Appian Way from Rome

Reaching the Appian Way is simple and well worth the effort.

By bus: Take line 118 from the Colosseo area, which drops you off at Via Appia Antica. This is the easiest and most popular route.
By taxi: A short ride from the city center brings you directly to Porta San Sebastiano, the perfect starting point.
By bike: Rent a bicycle in town or near the park entrance for a more immersive experience.

Before you begin, stop by the Visitor Center near Porta San Sebastiano to grab a map and get oriented.

What to See Along the Appian Way

There’s no shortage of amazing sights along the Appian Way. Here are a few must-sees:

Catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano: Two of the most famous early Christian burial sites, filled with frescoes, inscriptions, and history.
Tomb of Cecilia Metella: A grand mausoleum dedicated to a noble Roman woman, standing like a fortress over the road.
Circus of Maxentius: One of the best-preserved Roman circuses, once used for imperial chariot races.
Roman aqueducts: Majestic engineering works that still span the countryside.

Appian Way Map

Having a map of the Appian Way is essential for navigating the many ruins and sites along the road. We recommend:

Downloading the official Appia Antica Park map
Using offline maps if you're biking or walking, since mobile signal may be limited

Maps are available at the Visitor Center, and many tour operators also provide digital versions.

Appian Way Restaurants and Picnic Options

After walking or biking for miles, you’ll be ready for a break—and the Appian Way delivers with rustic charm.

Enjoy a hearty Roman meal at one of the rustic trattorias lining Via Appia Antica. These family-run spots serve local favorites in a countryside setting.
If you’re on a bike tour, consider packing a picnic. There are plenty of scenic spots along the road where you can relax and take in the peaceful views.

Searching for an Appian Way restaurant? Just look for the stone farmhouses nestled along the trail—many have been serving locals and travelers for generations.

Appian Way Tours with Walks Inside Rome

If you’re looking for a complete and fulfilling experience to discover all the secrets, history, and curiosities of the Appian Way, Walks Inside Rome is just what you need. We offer curated tours led by expert, licensed guides to help you uncover the Appian Way’s deepest stories and hidden gems.

Jewish Catacombs & Old Appian Way Tour

Explore the fascinating Jewish catacombs beneath ancient Rome and stroll along the oldest stretches of the Appian Way in a journey through history and faith.

Appian Way & Roman Aqueducts Tour

Walk alongside some of Rome’s greatest engineering marvels—its ancient aqueducts—while learning how they powered the city’s growth.

Catacombs & the Appian Way Tour

Combine your Appian Way visit with an immersive exploration of the underground catacombs, gaining insight into early Christian life and burial practices.

Appian Way Bike Tour with Picnic

Cycle through ancient history on a guided bike tour, soak in the countryside, and enjoy a traditional Italian picnic along the way.

Final Tips for Visiting the Appian Way

Now that you know everything you need to visit the Appian Way, here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your experience:

Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for weather and scenery.
Wear comfortable shoes: The ancient stones can be uneven—sturdy footwear is a must.
Bring water and sun protection, especially in summer months.
Consider a guided tour to enrich your experience and make the most of your visit.

Ready to explore Rome beyond the crowds? Let Walks Inside Rome guide you through the magic of the Appian Way—where every stone has a story, and every step is a journey into the past.