Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour
Rome, Italy

Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour

Outty Ranking 78 4.9 · 188 traveler reviews1.5 hoursFrom $68
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Outty Ranking

78/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 188 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour worth booking?

Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour is a 1.5-hour experience in Rome, Italy, from $68 per person. It scores 78 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 188 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
78 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (188)
Duration
1.5 hours
From
$68 per person

A visit of the 12th century Basilica of San Clemente reveals a gleaming gold mosaic above the central apse. St. Clement's transformed over centuries from a private home that was the site of a secret Christian worship in the first century to an imposing basilica. What laid beneath the Basilica was unknown until 1860, when flooding led an Irish Dominican Roman Catholic priest and archaeologist into the levels beneath the basilica floor. Excavations are ongoing. Today, you can descend up to 100 feet underground over three levels. At the first level we will find a 4th century Basilica, long forgotten after the construction of the 12th century Basilica above. Underneath, find the remains of an ancient pagan Mitraic temple. Lower still, ruins of ancient Roman homes.

What you get

    About this experience

    A visit of the 12th century Basilica of San Clemente reveals a gleaming gold mosaic above the central apse. St. Clement's transformed over centuries from a private home that was the site of a secret Christian worship in the first century to an imposing basilica. What laid beneath the Basilica was unknown until 1860, when flooding led an Irish Dominican Roman Catholic priest and archaeologist into the levels beneath the basilica floor. Excavations are ongoing. Today, you can descend up to 100 feet underground over three levels. At the first level we will find a 4th century Basilica, long forgotten after the construction of the 12th century Basilica above. Underneath, find the remains of an ancient pagan Mitraic temple. Lower still, ruins of ancient Roman homes.

    What's included

    Included

    • Expert & Passionate English Speaking Guide
    • Access to San Clemente Undergrounds
    • Professional Headsets to hear your guide clearly (when at least 5 guests)
    • Extra small group tour (max 15 guests or less)
    • Entrance Tickets to the Archeological Site of San Clemente

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off

    What you'll see and do

    1. Basilica of San Clemente

      Visit of the Basilica of San Clemente in Laterano and the archeological site.

      90 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Mitreo di San Clemente

      Part of the visit of the archeological site under the Basilica of S. Clemente.

      10 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Rome

    Meeting point is near St Clemente Basilica on the corner at Via di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 126. Please note the meeting point is an outdoor location and not an office. You guide will be waiting for you holding a sign with the EcoArt logo. The nearest metro stop is Line B ‘Colosseo’.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Tour ends at St. Clement's Basilica at 4:30PM

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    EcoArt Travel

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Not recommended for guests with mobility issues as the tour itinerary requires climbing and descending steps and well as walking on uneven terrain.
    • Check-in is 15 minutes prior to the booked start time. Tickets are time sensitive and we cannot accomodate late arrivals.
    • A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.

    Photos

    Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour, photo 2Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour, photo 3Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour, photo 4Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour, photo 5Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour, photo 6Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 187 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    187 verified traveler reviews for Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    178
    4 star
    7
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    2
    Sort
    B1900FNashleyw · October 2026

    Must do!

    Such an amazing experience!!! Luca was very knowledgeable and funny ! I highly recommend!

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your fantastic review! We're delighted to hear that you had such an amazing experience with Luca and appreciated his knowledge and sense of humor! We'll be happy to share your kind words with him. Thank you for your recommendation, and we hope to welcome you again in Rome!

    via Tripadvisor

    Theresa_E · September 2026

    Sam Clemente tour reveals interesting facts about early Roman life

    We had a lovely visit with our tour guide to San Clemente. She was very knowledgable and covered all of the aspects of the tour that we expected.

    Response from the operator: Dear Theresa, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had a lovely visit to San Clemente and that your guide’s knowledge and explanations made the experience enjoyable and informative. Thank you for choosing EcoArt!

    via Viator

    asilviu92 · September 2026

    Priscilla, the best tour guide so far !

    The tour is worth going to ! Loads of specific historical information and a wonderful place to be. Seeing the underground of the old Rome its a great experience ! Priscilla was amazing and very funny ! Probably the best tour guide we had during our stay in Rome.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed discovering the fascinating underground layers of ancient Rome and all the history behind them. It’s especially wonderful to know that Priscilla made the experience so memorable with her knowledge and sense of humor! We’ll be very happy to share your kind words with Priscilla. Thank you for choosing EcoArt!

    via Tripadvisor

    Kirtiman_S · September 2026

    Amazing Site & Guide

    Priscilla was knowledgeable and friendly and the experience was a must-see in Rome. Plus it was super close to the Colosseum.

    Response from the operator: Dear Kirtiman, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the experience and appreciated Priscilla’s knowledge and friendly approach. It’s great to know that you found it a must-see during your time in Rome. We’ll be very happy to share your kind words with Priscilla. Thank you for choosing EcoArt!

    via Viator

    Kim_E · September 2026

    Very interesting ...

    Very interesting Great guide with vast knowledge of history and the church.. Would recommend for any history lover

    Response from the operator: Dear Kim, Thank you so much for your feedback! We’re delighted to hear that you found your visit to San Clemente so interesting and that our guide’s extensive knowledge of the history and the church made the experience truly enjoyable. We’ll be very happy to share your lovely words with our guide. Thank you for recommending the experience to other history lovers and for choosing EcoArt for your visit to San Clemente! Warm regards, EcoArt Team

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    1.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    66
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by EcoArt Travel, who run 11 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 79.8 and 1 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything EcoArt Travel runs

    Why this scores 78

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)91
    Review evidence (18% weight)71
    Booking momentum (14% weight)66
    Value for money (12% weight)43
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)79
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rome.

    How much does Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $68 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rome usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rome is not rushed.

    Is Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 78 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 188 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Rome, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour?

    +

    Around 66 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rome can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rome and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rome within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Rome?

    +

    Rome runs on skip-the-line access. The Colosseum underground, the Vatican before opening, and the catacombs south of the walls all require a licensed operator, and the price gap between the good ones and the rest is smaller than you would expect. We rank by guide credentials, group size and how reliably the promised access actually materialises. On Outty we rank every Rome experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Rome Pizza & Gelato Class with Wine by Cooking Italy, Rome [4in1] Pasta Making_Tiramisù_Wine Tasting_Secret Cellar, Rome Pasta and Tiramisu Class: Ravioli, Fettuccine & Fine Wine 5*. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Rome?

    +

    April, May, September and October. August is hot and half the city is shut. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Rome?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour?

    +

    Included: Expert & Passionate English Speaking Guide; Access to San Clemente Undergrounds; Professional Headsets to hear your guide clearly (when at least 5 guests); Extra small group tour (max 15 guests or less); and Entrance Tickets to the Archeological Site of San Clemente. Not included: Gratuities; and Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour?

    +

    Meeting point is near St Clemente Basilica on the corner at Via di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 126. Please note the meeting point is an outdoor location and not an office. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for guests with mobility issues as the tour itinerary requires climbing an. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Rome. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Small Group Tour?

    +

    Across 188 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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