Ostia Antica and Cerveteri - Ancient World Tour

highlights

• Immerse yourself in the ancient world of 3 long gone civilizations: Etruscan, Roman and Medieval
• Wander through history-steeped streets of the Ancient Roman city of Ostia Antica
• Delight in the Medieval charm of the clifftop hamlet of Ceri with free time for a relaxing traditional lunch
• Feel like Indiana Jones exploring ancient tombs of the mysterious Etruscans at the Banditaccia Necropolis
• Pick Up and Drop Off at your Rome Hotel or Cruise Ship at Civitavecchia
• Private deluxe vehicle and English speaking Driver at your disposal
• Enjoy Self Touring the epochal wonders for a day of compelling discoveries
• You have the option to book Additional Licensed Tour Guide for each site ( * Inquire within for price and info)
• Enjoy a higher level of personal attention and flexibility on our private tours by car
• This tour does NOT include a Tour Guide, you will Self Tour when away from the Vehicle (You may request a private tour guide for Ostia Antica and/or Cerveteri at additional fees. See more info below)
• * Please read ALL the information on the tour page before booking to ensure this tour meets your expectations. If you have any unanswered questions let us know. Tour Requests are confirmed based on availability.

itinerary

• Ostia Antica
• Lunch in Medieval village of Ceri
• Cerveteri Banditaccia Etruscan Necropolis

description

History lovers and adventure seekers rejoice in this captivating day trip from Rome or shore excursion from Civitavecchia to Ostia Antica and Cerveteri's Banditaccia Etruscan Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This Ancient World Tour propels you through the mists of time as you discover the grandeur of ancient Rome as you walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in Ostia Antica. Venture further into the annals of history and explore the tombs of the Etruscans, an advanced ancient pre-Roman civilization that once held dominion over central Italy. It's a day trip through the ages, waiting for you to unlock its secrets and delve into the mysteries of the past.

OSTIA ANTICA AND CERVETERI ANCIENT WORLD TOUR PRICE LIST

Day Tour from Rome hotel

• For up to 2 Persons from Rome Hotel:  490 EUROS
• For up to 4 Persons from Rome Hotel:  530 EUROS
• For up to 6 Persons from Rome Hotel:  570 EUROS
• For up to 8 Persons from Rome Hotel:  600 EUROS
  
  

Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia:

• For up to 4 Persons from Civitavecchia Port:  600 EUROS
• For up to 6 Persons from Civitavecchia Port:  650 EUROS
• For up to 8 Persons from Civitavecchia Port:  700 EUROS 
  
  
  

** You may also do a QUICK PRICE CHECK using the Price Check & Booking form on the Right Side of this page.  Once you receive the PRICE QUOTE based on the information you input, you may proceed to SUBMIT your Tour Request.

*** Dates on the Booking Form Calendar that are NOT Selectable, are NOT AVAILABLE.

 

Enjoy a preview of Ostia Antica and Cerveteri on our Ancient World Tour VIDEO:

 
OSTIA ANTICA - walk in the footsteps of the Ancient Romans

Nestled near the mouth of the Tiber River, Ostia Antica bears witness to more than two millennia of Roman history. According to tradition, this ancient city was founded in the late 7th century BC by Ancus Marcius, the fourth king of Rome. From its humble beginnings as a settlement in the 4th century BC, Ostia flourished into a bustling port city, reaching its zenith with a population of 50,000 inhabitants by the late 2nd century AD.

Under the patronage of emperors such as Domitian, Trajan, and Hadrian, Ostia underwent significant development. Grand building projects adorned the cityscape, including expansive apartment complexes, majestic temples, opulent villas, elaborate bathhouses, bustling commercial centers, and impressive theaters. These structures not only served as architectural marvels but also as testament to the wealth and prosperity of Ostia during its peak.

Despite its grandeur, Ostia faced decline in the subsequent centuries due to historical upheavals, economic shifts, and the devastating impact of malaria. The city’s gradual abandonment, however, inadvertently contributed to its preservation. While Ostia was pillaged for its valuable stones and marbles, which were repurposed in architectural projects from Pisa to the Amalfi Coast, the core of the city lay relatively untouched.

The early 20th century marked a resurgence of interest in Ostia, sparking intensive archaeological excavations that continue to this day. These efforts have unearthed Ostia’s rich heritage, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore a remarkably well-preserved Roman town. Walking through Ostia Antica today allows you to immerse yourself in the daily lives of ancient Romans, retracing their footsteps along cobbled streets, through bustling marketplaces, and into the serene interiors of once-luxurious villas.

Visiting Ostia Antica offers a unique blend of history, archaeology, and immersive exploration. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient architecture, intrigued by Roman daily life, or captivated by the city’s storied past, Ostia Antica promises a journey back in time like no other.

Discover the marvels of Ostia Antica, marvel at the grandeur of the Theater of Ostia, wander through the ancient market square, or admire the intricate mosaics in the Baths of Neptune. Each corner of Ostia Antica reveals a piece of its fascinating history.
 

CERI - charming clifftop hamlet steeped in Medieval history

Perched on a tuffaceous cliff, Ceri is a picturesque 13th-century Medieval hamlet that transports visitors back in time with its ancient fortresses and narrow, winding streets.

Ceri's ancient fortresses, seemingly rising organically from the cliffside, evoke a sense of medieval grandeur and historical intrigue. The main fortress gate, positioned at the base of the cliff, leads to the village square above via a narrow road that accommodates only one vehicle at a time. Traffic lights, a modern addition, regulate the flow of vehicles through this ancient thoroughfare, enhancing the experience of traversing Ceri's medieval streets.

Visiting Ceri allows you to step back in time and immerse yourself in its medieval ambiance. Wander through the quaint streets, admire the rustic architecture, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this clifftop hamlet. Discover hidden corners and capture breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Overlooking the village's main square is the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Ceri, a place of spiritual significance and architectural beauty. Built atop an ancient site where both Etruscans and Romans once worshipped the pagan goddess Vesta, the sanctuary now houses a church adorned with remarkable medieval frescoes. These frescoes, depicting scenes from the Old Testament, offer a glimpse into Ceri's rich religious and artistic heritage.

Ceri makes up for its tiny size by serving up enormous flavors in their local cuisine prepared at the local family-owned restaurants that draw connoisseurs from all over the region. Recipes handed down through generations highlight the region’s culinary traditions, utilizing fresh, seasonal ingredients to create unforgettable dishes. From rustic pastas to delectable desserts, Ceri offers a feast for the senses that reflects its rich cultural heritage.

CERVETERI - Explore the Ancient Etruscan Necropolis 

Travel even farther back in time deep into the ancient world of the Etruscans with a journey to Cerveteri, where the Banditaccia Necropolis stands as a testament to one of Italy's most enigmatic civilizations. Long before Rome's ascent, the Etruscans flourished in central Italy, leaving behind a rich tapestry of art, architecture, and cultural practices that continue to intrigue historians and visitors alike.

Cerveteri, once known as Caere, held pivotal importance in the ancient world as one of the principal cities of the Etruscan League. Strategically situated near the coast of central Italy, its influence spanned trade routes across the Mediterranean, contributing significantly to the early development of Italian civilization. The city's prominence was underscored by its robust economy, fortified walls, and advanced urban planning, all of which helped shape its enduring legacy.

Carved meticulously into the tuffaceous rock, this sprawling burial ground served as the final resting place for generations of Etruscans from the 9th to the 3rd century BC. Its design, resembling a miniature city, reflects not only the Etruscans' architectural prowess but also their complex beliefs regarding death and the afterlife.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a sprawling glimpse into Etruscan funerary customs, urban planning, and societal structure. The necropolis itself resembles a city with streets, squares, and distinct neighborhoods where families interred their loved ones in elaborate tombs.

The Banditaccia Necropolis offers a chronological journey through Etruscan funerary customs. Beginning with simple trench graves of the Villanovan period, the necropolis evolved over centuries into more elaborate structures such as tumuli (mounds) and "dice" tombs.

These tombs, carved directly into the rocky terrain, feature intricate facades adorned with symbolic carvings and paintings that depict scenes of daily life, religious rituals, and mythological narratives.

Wander through the necropolis and discover its structured layout, reminiscent of a bustling city. Streets, squares, and neighborhoods delineate the burial grounds, emphasizing the Etruscans' meticulous urban planning even in matters of death. Each tomb tells a story, offering insights into familial ties, social hierarchies, and the cultural practices that defined Etruscan society.

Venture inside these ancient sepulchers to discover a treasure trove of artistic and cultural artifacts. Frescoes adorned the walls with vibrant scenes depicting Etruscan daily life, religious ceremonies, and mythical tales.

The Tomb of the Reliefs, a masterpiece of Etruscan artistry from the 3rd century BC, showcases intricate bas-reliefs that detail household items, personal belongings, and tools of daily use. These artistic depictions not only highlight the Etruscans' skill in craftsmanship but also provide a window into their societal norms and cultural values.

As you explore the Banditaccia Necropolis in Cerveteri, immerse yourself in the profound legacy of the Etruscans.

If you are further interested, you may discover ancient artifacts unearthed from the Banditaccia Necropolis, now housed in the Archaeological Museum at Cerveteri.

The museum features pottery vessels, jewelry, ceremonial objects, and inscriptions that illuminate the Etruscan worldview, their interactions with neighboring cultures, and their contributions to Mediterranean trade networks. These artifacts not only highlight their advanced metallurgical skills but also offer clues to their religious beliefs and social structures.

As your epic journey through ancient civilizations and Italy's mesmerizing 3,000-year history draws to a close, prepare for one final journey back to your hotel in Rome or your cruise ship in Civitavecchia.

Thank you for booking our Ostia Antica and Cerveteri Ancient World Tour and for choosing Stefano's RomeCabs for your Day Tours from Rome and Shore Excursions from Civitavecchia. We look forward to showing you beautiful places in Italy!

Guests who enjoyed this tour from Rome, also booked the following Rome Countryside Tours, Tuscany Tours, and day tours from Rome to Amalfi Coast:

• MYSTERIOUS ETRUSCANS COUNTRYSIDE TOUR: Explore the ancient Etruscan painted tombs of Monterozzi Necropolis Tarquinia, and visit the remarkable town of Tuscania
• HERCULANEUM, SORRENTO, AMALFI COAST TOUR FROM ROME: Extended private day tour from Rome to Herculaneum, Sorrento, and Positano on the Amalfi Coast
• VALLEY OF PARADISE TUSCANY TOUR FROM ROME:  Experience the magic of Tuscany and visit the fabled Monticchiello, Pienza, Montalcino, and enjoy a scenic drive through Val d'Orcia
  
  

Important Information

PLEASE READ THE INFORMATION BELOW AND ACCEPT THE   TERMS OF SERVICE  AND PRIVACY POLICY BEFORE BOOKING.

** This Ostia Antica and Cerveteri Tour is NOT offered on Mondays & Tuesdays as Banditaccia Necropolis in Cerveteri is currently closed on these dates.
 

PAYMENT OPTIONS

Payment for this Tour can be made in EUROS directly to your driver on the Date of Tour, or prepaid in advance via PayPal or Credit Card online upon request. (See Cancellation policy below)

CANCELLATION POLICY

We kindly ask that cancellations be made via E-mail at least 7 days prior to Date of Service. 

Cancellations are accepted only via E-mail so your cancellation is on record. We do not accept cancellations by phone, text message, or 3rd parties.

** Cancelations for PREPAID SERVICES will be refunded the Reduced Net Rate we receive from your prepayment.  Reduced Net Rate: actual service price minus PayPal/Credit Card fees retained by PayPal/Credit Card as they do not reimburse us the fees they retain from your payment.

ADMISSION TICKETS

OSTIA ANTICA Tickets are currently 18 Euros per person. Tickets can be purchased at the site before entering. Ticket prices may go up in price when exhibitions are held inside the site.

Admission Tickets to Cerveteri Banditaccia Etruscan Necropolis is currently approximately 10 Euros per person. Tickets can be purchased upon arriving at the site.

* Admission Ticket prices are subject to change without notice.

LUNCH IN CERI

Lunch will be in Ceri at a local restaurant. Ceri is famous for local home-cooked cuisine at reasonable prices that draws Italians and visitors from all over the region. There are no sandwiches or sliced ​​pizza anywhere in the hamlet or its environs.
 

YOUR PRIVATE TOUR DRIVER

This tour by car includes an English-speaking Driver who is not a Licensed Tour Guide.

Italy's laws prohibit Drivers from guiding or accompanying guests Your driver will be obliged to remain with the vehicle while you visit sites. For this reason, we recommend private licensed tours, sites, and monuments if you require in-depth information.

PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS

This is a Tour by Car with only a Driver who is NOT a licensed tour guide.  Without a Tour Guide you would be SELF-TOURING inside Ostia Antica and Cerveteri.

You may reserve a Licensed Tour Guide for an informative walking tour inside OSTIA ANTICA and/or CERVETERI NECROPOLIS.

Please inquire within for more information and Tour Guide fees and to reserve your private tour guide for your preferred location, or both. 

Tour guides do not work for us, however, we are happy to make arrangements on our clients' behalf and reserve professional licensed tour guides upon request.

MEETING POINTS TO MEET YOUR DRIVER

At ROME HOTEL / ACCOMMODATION:

For day tours from Rome, your private driver will meet you inside the lobby of your hotel or in areas permitted by hotels.

For Apartments or B&Bs without a lobby, your driver will meet you outside the main entrance of your Pick Up Address.

* If your hotel or accommodation is on a street or in an area restricted to vehicle traffic, your driver will park as close as lawfully possible and will meet you on foot at your Address to accompany you to your parked vehicle.

MEETING POINT AT CIVITAVECCHIA CRUISE PORT

For shore excursions from Civitavecchia your private driver will meet you on the Pier next to your Ship at your scheduled pick-up time holding a sign with the NAME in your reservation.

Please do NOT leave the ship area, and do NOT take a shuttle bus outside the port.

Look for the driver in the same area as ALL private drivers will be waiting for their clients.

FAQ about Ostia Antica and Cerveteri Ancient World Tour with RomeCabs:

Q1:  What is the price of the Ostia Antica and Cerveteri Ancient World Tour?

A1:  Our current tour prices are published on this tour page. You will also find additional information about what is included and not included in our tour fee.

Q2:  What are the highlights of the tour? 

A2:  The tour allows you to immerse yourself in the ancient world of Etruscan and Roman civilizations, explore Ostia Antica, enjoy a traditional lunch in Ceri (a medieval village with ancient Etruscan roots), and ex the Banditaccia Necropolis in Cerveteri.

Q3:  What is included in the tour package? 

A3:  The tour includes a private deluxe vehicle, an English-speaking driver, all Italy taxes and VAT, highway tolls, and parking fees.

Q4:  Are admission tickets included in the tour price? 

A4:   No, admission tickets to Ostia Antica and Cerveteri Banditaccia Etruscan Necropolis are not included in the tour price. Ticket prices can change without notice. You may purchase your tickets on-site on arrival.

Q5:  Can I book a private tour guide for the sites visited on the tour?

A5:   Yes, you have the option to book an additional licensed tour guide for Ostia Antica and/or Cerveteri at additional fees. Please inquire for more information and to reserve a private tour guide for your preferred site.

Q6: Do you have any tips for visiting Ostia Antica and Cerveteri Necropolis?

• Please wear suitable walking shoes and comfortable clothing on this tour.
• You will be walking on uneven terrain inside Ostia Antica and Ceveteri Necropolis. This tour may NOT be suitable for visitors with mobility issues.
• There are many opportunities to take photographs and videos on this tour, cameras for photos and videos are recommended!
• During the hot and sunny summer months please use sunscreen, and wear sunglasses and a summer hat.

TRAVEL TIPS FROM OUR BLOG:

•      10 Most Amazing Etruscan Tombs at Banditaccia Necropolis in Cerveteri