Private Tour(122 tours)
Small group(5 tours)
Transfer(13 tours)
Package tour(2 tours)
Explore the archaeological site of Ostia Antica with this private tour from Rome. A perfect short day trip to get out of the crowds and heat of Rome with optional seaside lunch
Discover one of Italy’s most complete Roman cities with a private expert guide- Experience Ancient Rome without the crowds of Pompeii
- Combine archaeology with a relaxing seaside atmosphere
- Ideal half-day escape from Rome with minimal travel time
- Perfect for travelers seeking depth, comfort, and authenticity
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Private pickup and drop-off at your Rome hotel
- Luxury private transportation with professional driver
- Licensed private guide for the entire experience
- Approximately 2-hour guided visit of Ostia Antica
- Entrance fees at Ostia Antica site
- Assistance with restaurant reservation in Ostia Lido (lunch not included)
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Description:
Discover Ostia Antica on a private guided tour from Rome, an extraordinary journey into one of the best-preserved archaeological sites of Ancient Rome.
Once the main harbor city of the Roman Empire, the site of Ancient Ostia offers an authentic and immersive experience where streets, houses, baths, temples, and taverns still tell the story of everyday Roman life.
With private transportation, a professional driver, and a licensed private guide, this fascinating day trip from Rome allows you to explore Roman history in depth, away from the crowds of the city center and Pompeii. Easily accessible and remarkably intact, Ostia Antica is the perfect choice for travelers seeking a cultural experience that is both educational and relaxing, with the option to end the day enjoying lunch by the sea.
Itinerary
Private Pickup from Your Hotel in Rome
Your day begins with a comfortable pickup directly from your Rome hotel by your private driver. You’ll meet your private licensed guide, who will accompany you throughout the tour, ensuring a smooth, insightful, and fully personalized experience. The drive to Ostia Antica takes approximately 45 minutes, offering a pleasant transition from the city to the Roman countryside.
Exploring Ostia Antica: Rome’s Ancient Harbor City
Upon arrival, you’ll enter the vast archaeological park of Ostia Antica, once the main harbor and commercial hub of Imperial Rome. During your approximately two-hour private guided visit, your guide will bring the ruins to life, focusing on both major monuments and everyday spaces.
Highlights of the visit typically include:
- The Decumanus Maximus, the city’s main street, still lined with ancient shops and warehouses
- Well-preserved apartment buildings (insulae) that illustrate urban Roman living
- The Forum and public squares, once the heart of civic life
- Ancient bath complexes with visible mosaics and heating systems
- Taverns, bakeries, and temples that reveal the rhythm of daily life in a Roman port city
- The impressive theater, which once hosted performances for thousands of spectators
Unlike Pompeii, Ostia Antica is spacious, peaceful, and rarely crowded, allowing for a slower pace, in-depth explanations, and excellent photo opportunities.
Optional Seaside Lunch in Ostia Lido
After the archaeological visit, you may choose to extend your experience with a lunch by the sea in Ostia Lido, Rome’s historic seaside district. Lunch is not included, but we are happy to reserve a table for you at a carefully selected waterfront restaurant, known for fresh seafood and classic Roman coastal cuisine.
Return to Your Hotel in Rome
After lunch (or directly after the visit, if you prefer), your private driver will take you back to your hotel in Rome, completing a relaxed and culturally rich half-day experience.
Why Choose This Tour
- Private driver and licensed guide for a seamless, stress-free experience
- One of the best-preserved Roman archaeological sites in Italy
- Far less crowded than Pompeii or central Rome ruins
- Flexible itinerary with optional seaside lunch extension
- Ideal balance of history, comfort, and relaxation
- Personalized explanations tailored to your interests and pace
Who Is This Tour For
- Travelers interested in Roman history beyond the usual highlights
- Visitors who want a quieter alternative to Pompeii
- Couples and families looking for a relaxed half-day excursion
- First-time visitors wanting context for Ancient Rome
- Repeat visitors seeking a deeper, more authentic experience
- Cruise passengers or short-stay travelers based in Rome
Ready to Explore Ancient Ostia?
Book your private Ostia Antica tour from Rome online or contact us to customize the experience with lunch, timing adjustments, or additional stops. We’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying history at your own pace.
Also Available for Cruise Passengers from Civitavecchia
This private Ostia Antica tour can also be arranged for cruise passengers arriving at the Port of Civitavecchia. With private transportation and a licensed guide, the experience can be timed around your ship’s schedule, offering a smooth and comfortable way to explore Ancient Roman history during your day ashore.
For guests interested in a fully tailored shore excursion, we also offer dedicated Civitavecchia tour options, which we’ll be happy to recommend based on your arrival and departure times.
FAQs - Ancient Ostia Daytrip from Rome
How long does the tour last?
The standard tour lasts about 4 hours, including transfer time. With the optional lunch extension, plan for approximately 6 hours.
Is this tour suitable for families and children?
Yes. Ostia Antica is very family-friendly, with open spaces and engaging ruins. The guide can adapt explanations for children and teens.
How physically demanding is the visit?
The site is mostly flat, but involves walking on ancient stone paths. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended.
Is Ostia Antica crowded?
Compared to Pompeii and central Rome sites, Ostia Antica is generally quiet and uncrowded, even during high season.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included, but we can reserve a seaside restaurant in Ostia Lido upon request.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour runs in most weather conditions. In case of extreme conditions, we will discuss alternatives or rescheduling options.
Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, Ostia Antica is open year-round, though hours may vary seasonally.
Is this one of the best short day trips from Rome?
Yes. Thanks to its proximity to Rome and the exceptional state of preservation, Ostia Antica is considered one of the best half-day trips from Rome. It offers deep insight into Ancient Roman life without long travel times or large crowds.
Is it worth adding the seaside lunch in Ostia Lido?
Absolutely. Ending the visit with lunch by the sea in Ostia Lido adds a relaxing and enjoyable dimension to the experience, balancing history with leisure. It’s a great way to slow down and enjoy fresh seafood and coastal views after the archaeological visit.
How far is Ostia Antica from Rome?
Ostia Antica is located about 40 minutes from central Rome, making it ideal for travelers who want a meaningful cultural experience without spending a full day traveling.
Can this tour be done in half a day?
Yes. The standard itinerary is designed as a comfortable half-day tour, perfect for fitting between other Rome activities or for travelers with limited time.
Do you recommend this tour for first-time visitors to Rome?
Yes. Ostia Antica provides valuable context for understanding Ancient Rome and complements visits to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, especially for first-time visitors.
Included:
- Mercedes sedan/minivan with private driver
- Officially licensed private guide
- Entrance fees
Not included:
- Lunch
Languages:
Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian, Polish
Meeting point:
At your hotel in Rome
Duration:
4 Hours
Dress code:
Comfortable walking shoes and a hat during summer months
Options:
Seaside Lunch Extension
