We will visit the amazing archaeological site of the ancient Roman port town of Ostia Antica. Walk along original Roman roads, stroll through the bath houses with beautifully intact mosaics and explore underneath where the slaves stoked the fires. Stand on the stage of the Amphitheater. Enter the Taverns, The Brothels, the grain storage, the mills and bakery all waiting to be brought to life on this off the beaten path, hidden gems tour.

Ostia Antica is a stunningly preserved ancient Roman city—one of the best in Italy. With you English Mother-Tongue guide, we will bring the ancient city to life as we pick our way through 2000-year-old apartment complexes, visit a bygone restaurant, and learn about bizarre religious cults.

Why Ostia Antica instead of Pompeii? There are three reasons, 1) Ostia it’s much closer and easier to visit (25-minute train ride); 2) Ostia is a better example of a real, working class town than Pompeii; 3) visiting Ostia has a lower carbon footprint than visiting Pompeii, and given the crowds at the latter and general “undiscovered” feeling of the former, it’s a more enjoyable, enriching experience.

We begin our Ostia Antica Tour in Rome, at Piramide Metro B station, with a short 25 minutes train ride toward the Mediterranean sea. Along the way, I will discuss the regional geography of the area, Ostia’s role as Rome’s port, and the historic background leading up to the town’s rise in the Imperial era. On site, we will spend 2,5 hours combing through the ruins, which include some of the best examples of baths, a fantastic amphitheater, and several Mithraic temples, not to mention a forum with temples.  At the end, you are close to the beach so pack your suit and towel for after or just have a stroll and a nice Seafood meal.