Circus of Maxentius (Circo di Massenzio) Tours
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Part of the 4th-century Villa of Maxentius complex along the Via Appia Antica in the Roman countryside, the Circus of Maxentius (Circo di Massenzio) is the best preserved chariot racetrack in Rome and second in size only to the Circus Maximus.
The Basics
Located between miles I and II of Rome's ancient Appian Way, the villa complex, which was commissioned by the Emperor Maxentius, is home the ruins of the imperial palace and the Mausoleo di Romolo (Tomb of Romulus). The highlight, though, is the Circus of Maxentius—also known as the Circus Maxentius, Circo di Massenzio, or, for many years, the Circus of Caracalla. In its heyday, the public stadium held 10,000 spectators; the obelisk that decorates Piazza Navona today once marked its center. Explore the site on a Vespa tour of ancient Rome, a guided bike ride, or independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is particularly interesting for ancient Roman history buffs.
- The Circus of Maxentius is an outdoor archaeological site, so wear a hat and sunscreen if you’re visiting in summer.
- Most of the site consists of uneven, overgrown terrain; it’s difficult to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.
- For older kids, a bike ride through along the Appian Way is a fun break from seeing Rome’s historic center on foot.
How to Get There
The Circus of Maxentius is located in the Villa of Maxentius at Via Appia Antica 153 between the Basilica of San Sebastiano and the tomb of Caecilia Metella inside the Appian Way Regional Park (Parco Regionale Appia Antica). You can reach it on bike or Vespa from center of Rome.
When to Get There
The archaeological ruins are part of an open-air park, so visit on a clear day with mild temperatures.
Roman Circuses
The circus, where games, political events, religious functions, and funerals were held, was the primary gathering place for ancient Romans. Italy's most important Roman circuses are located in Rome, Milan, Aquileia, and Marino.
Address: Via Appia Antica 153, 00179, Italy
8 Tours and Activities to Experience Circus of Maxentius (Circo di Massenzio)
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Appian Way in Rome 3-Hour Bike Tour
Venture outside the city center to explore some of Rome’s lesser-known but most impressive imperial attractions on this small-group bike tour. Cycle along the legendary Appian Way, an ancient military road that winds through the countryside and connects Rome with the coastal city of Brindisi.
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From
$55.31
Price varies by group size
From
$55.31
Price varies by group size
Electric Bicycle Small Group Tour - Regina Viarum Appian Way
Follow the route of conquering Roman armies on an electric bike tour of the ancient Appian Way and other Eternal City highlights. Learn the history of this important military road and other landmarks of the mighty empire like the Colosseum, Circus Maximus and Cecilia Metella Mausoleum, listening to your guide’s live commentary through an audio headset. Enjoy a battery-powered boost to cover long distances with ease, and break along the way to sample authentic Roman coffee and gelato.
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From
$67.60
Price varies by group size
From
$67.60
Price varies by group size
Bike Rental: Appia Antica Regional Park in Rome
Cruise through Rome on two wheels with this cycle through the Appia Antica Regional Park. Customize the itinerary according to your interests and cover ground quickly as you explore the bicycle trails of this ancient highway, home to several historic landmarks including the Villa of Massenzio. Helmets and locks are included.
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From
$22.12
From
$22.12
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella and Villa Massenzio: The many faces of the Appia Antica
A walk in the tranquility of the Via Appia Antica, to discover the history of this very important Roman road. You will visit some of the best preserved ancient buildings that overlook this street surrounded by greenery.
The exclusive guide will allow you to choose the pace you want and will answer all your questions.
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From
$273.13
Price varies by group size
From
$273.13
Price varies by group size
eBiking along the Appian Way
The Appian Way was one of the first roads ever built and ran from ancient Rome all the way to Brindisi in south Italy. On this tour, explore the fascinating ruins along the ancient road by e-bike, meaning you can cycle further and cover up to 19 miles (30 kilometers) without getting tired. See the Aqueduct of Claudius, Circus Maximus, and Bath of Caracalla; learn about ancient Rome from an archaeologist guide; and visit sights often left off other tour itineraries.
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From
$232.29
From
$232.29
Private 6-hour Bike Tour: Appian Way and Aqueducts Park
Take a break from city crowds on a private cycling tour that follows in the footsteps of the ancient Romans. Your guide eliminates the hassle of navigating unfamiliar territory on your own, and brings you to landmarks and historic sites outside the city that visitors often miss. After a working up an appetite, cap the tour with a sit-down meal at an authentic Italian restaurant.
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From
$153.63
Price varies by group size
From
$153.63
Price varies by group size
Private 3-hour Bike Tour: Appian Way in Rome
Put a fun spin on your sightseeing in Rome with this Ancient Appian Way bike tour. A treat for families and sightseers who want a more energetic approach, the private tour starts near the Colosseum and follows the ancient Roman road through the Parco dell'Appia Antica. You’ll see the Roman baths known as Terme di Caracalla along with Circus Maximus and the catacombs as you pedal along with your sole group and a guide.
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From
$129.05
Price varies by group size
From
$129.05
Price varies by group size
Appian Way and Aqueducts with lunch
The Regina Viarum is the oldest and most important road built by the Romans, The Queen of the Roads. Only a short drive from the city centre, it hides its magic through mausoleums, catacombs and roman ancient villas that give you a peaceful feeling and impression of being miles away from the chaos. Integrated to the Regional Park of Appian Way is the Aqueducts Park. With the remains of two stunning Roman Aqueducts, The Aqueduct Claudio and the Aqueduct Felix this is a stop not to be missed.
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From
$84.80
From
$84.80
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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