Add dates

Church of Santa Cecilia

Church of Santa Cecilia: Our most recommended tours and activities

Rome: Underground Trastevere Guided Walking Tour

1. Rome: Underground Trastevere Guided Walking Tour

Meet your guide near the beautiful Tiber River, then travel back in time as you explore the picturesque streets of Trastevere. Head to the medieval Basilica of Saint Crisogono, which boasts an impressive interior. Next, go underground and find yourself in 4th century Rome. Soak up the unique atmosphere of this underground basilica, admiring its ancient frescoes and mysterious crypts. Head to the Church of Santa Cecilia next, and find its 3rd century mosaic flooring underground. Learn about the legendary Santa Cecilia, as well as her macabre death. Arrive at the Cavallini Room next, and marvel at the Last Judgement masterpiece (morning tours only). End the tour in the heart of Trastevere, in front of the golden mosaics of Santa Maria, one of the oldest churches in Rome.

Rome: Trastevere & Jewish Ghetto Tour with Pizza Tasting

2. Rome: Trastevere & Jewish Ghetto Tour with Pizza Tasting

Experience the captivating journey through time as we delve into the origins of Rome's Jewish Ghetto, established in 1555 by Pope Paul IV to accommodate the city's 5,000-strong Jewish population. Nestled near the tranquil banks of the Tiber River, this historically walled enclave has evolved into one of Rome's most enthralling neighborhoods. Embarking on our Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto walking tour, we commence our adventure in Trastevere. Once a renowned Regio during the reign of Emperor Augustus (Trans - Tiberim, meaning "across the Tiber"), Trastevere has preserved its medieval charm with its labyrinthine streets, narrow alleys, and charming squares. Visit significant Roman churches, including the venerable Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, an ancient Christian site of great significance, and the Basilica of Santa Cecilia, constructed upon the very location of the revered saint's former residence. Immerse yourself in the ancient allure of Trastevere, with its picturesque streets and remnants of the medieval synagogue. We will then cross the Tiber River, capturing the breathtaking view of the renowned Ponte Rotto, Rome's oldest stone bridge. Leave the idyllic Tiber Island behind, we venture into the heart of the former Jewish Ghetto. Delve into the compelling history of the Roman Jews, their profound cultural influence on the city, and the lasting impact they have left on this vibrant district. Throughout the tour, our expert guide will point out Jewish-owned establishments, kosher restaurants, and traditional shops and cafes in both areas. Enhance your experience by indulging in one of Rome's finest pizzas, the perfect culinary finale to your journey!

Rome: Trastevere Guided Walking Tour

3. Rome: Trastevere Guided Walking Tour

Get a little closer to the history, legends, and folklore of Tiber Island and one of Rome's most significant neighborhoods, Trastevere. Follow your guide through the hidden squares, gems, and monuments while learning about the sacred stories and legends of Romans passed. Meet your guide at Fabrico Bridge and begin the walk to the only island in the Eternal city. Cross over the oldest Roman bridge still in use that connects the left bank of Tiber River with the island. Travel back in time and retrace the steps of the Greeks and Romans. Once on the island, learn of how it was originally formed by volcanic rock and river sediment that accumulated over many millennia. Admire the island's ship-like shape and discover the stories about the smallest inhabited island in the world. Continue on to Rome's prettiest neighborhood, Trastevere. As you walk, come across the Basilica of San Crisogono, one of the oldest Roman Basilicas. Take the time to admire it without the presence of many tourists and prepare to be enchanted by the frescoes. Once at the Piazza di Santa Maria, discover the first official place of Christian worship in Rome and the beautiful Basilica with artistic treasures and masterpieces to explore. Wander the crooked streets and romantic alleys and reach the Piazza San Cosimato. Admire its homonymous church dating back to the 10th century from the outside and reach the Baroque Church of San Francesco a Ripa. Finish the tour passing by the Basilica of Santa Cecilia, patron saint of musicians, and head back to Tiber Island.

Trastevere: Segway Tour (private)

4. Trastevere: Segway Tour (private)

There’s a lot to see in Trastevere and there are several different Segway Express tours for you to choose from. These 2-hour guided rides are operated daily and led by a multi-lingual tour leader who’ll show you around. This popular Roman neighborhood is located on the Tiber’s west bank, south of the Vatican. The area’s cobbled streets, medieval houses, and unique character continue to draw artists, celebrities, and expatriates to live and play here. After a short but intense training session with an authorized instructor, you’ll be taken along Trastevere’s narrow streets to see the main attractions, including some of the most beautiful squares and fountains in Rome. The tour is short, fun, and designed to leave you with pleasant memories of your time in Rome. You can choose from the following itineraries for your Trastevere Express tour: • From Santa Maria in Trastevere to Santa Cecilia and return • Up Gianicolo Hill to the Bramante masterpiece and a panoramic view of Rome • Piazza Trilussa, Campo dei Fiori, Piazza Navona and return • The Jewish Ghetto and Teatro Marcello

The Shadows of Rome: Between Legends and Spirits

5. The Shadows of Rome: Between Legends and Spirits

Embark on a two-hour adventure guided by our expert storyteller, starting at the enchanting Piazza Navona and venturing to Campo de' Fiori, where tales from the inquisition era, including the execution of Giordano Bruno, come to life. Explore the dark secrets of Palazzo Farnese, an imposing Renaissance palace, and step into a haunting church, where macabre rituals and mysteries linger, adding an eerie ambiance to the tour. Continuing the journey, cross Ponte Garibaldi to reach the famous Isola Tiberina, surrounded by haunting narratives of its origins. Delve into the heart of the island to discover the Basilica and marvel at the view of the Tiber River. The tour reaches its unsettling climax in a Trastevere church, where the chilling tale of a saint's afterlife unfolds, accompanied by whispers of her restless spirit. Throughout this captivating experience, our expert guide will weave these intriguing stories, providing historical context and keeping your senses sharp, ensuring you are prepared for any ghostly encounters that may unfold during this unforgettable exploration of Rome's haunted past.

Trastevere and Villa Farnesina: 3.5-Hour Private Tour

6. Trastevere and Villa Farnesina: 3.5-Hour Private Tour

Wander through the picturesque cobblestone streets of Rome's Trastevere neighborhood and admire the centuries-old gold mosaics in the Basilica of Santa Maria on this 3.5-hour private walking tour.  Meet your local guide outside the Villa Farnesina and admire the extensive fresco decorations by artists such as Raphael, whose lover was said to have lived in this district. Continue on to the Basilica of Santa Maria, one of the oldest churches in Rome, and the nearby Church of Santa Cecilia, known for its elaborate crypt and a magnificent Baroque-era sculpture of the saint. Walk past the pizzerias and lively restaurants that have made this neighborhood so famous and learn about this area's role in the city's history.

Rome: Hidden Trastevere and Villa Farnesina Private Tour

7. Rome: Hidden Trastevere and Villa Farnesina Private Tour

Begin your Hidden Trastevere tour at the Papal Pharmacy After arriving in Trastevere, we’ll make our way to the the medieval pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala. This pharmacy started producing medicine for the papal court in the 16th century; the friars who lived adjacent cultivating and blending plants and spices to create remedies. Today, Santa Maria della Scala is seldom visited except by those local to the area, making it one of Trastevere’s last truly hidden gems. Visit the beautiful church of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere The Church of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere houses some of the most beautiful Baroque sculptures anywhere in Rome. Its most famous example is Stefano Maderno’s Martyrdom of Saint Cecilia. But there is a wealth of other Renaissance and Baroque art to discover, which your professional guide will walk you through. Discover the Raphael Frescoes at Villa Farnesina Many people have heard of Trastevere, but few have heard of its most prized treasure: Villa Farnesina. This sixteenth century palace is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Among its collection are frescoes by Raphael, which rival his artworks in the Vatican’s Raphael Rooms, and scenes of the life and times of Alexander the Great painted by Il Sodoma. Villa Farnesina was once a private home. Fortunately, its doors are now open for you to come and explore. Your guide can recommend an authentic wine bar or restaurant Trastevere is home to some of Rome’s finest food. We seek out the best of it on our Trastevere food tour. But after a day indulging on Renaissance art, you might not have the energy to explore Trastevere’s culinary hideouts. That’s why our expert local guide will be more than happy to recommend you a restaurant or trattoria where you can relax and wind down after a day of sightseeing.

Medieval Trastevere: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

8. Medieval Trastevere: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What do you get when you combine the buzz of a young international capital city with the quaint alleyways and characteristic buildings of a medieval Italian village? Trastevere. A neighborhood apart (“Trastevere” literally means “beyond the Tiber”), this picturesque area is home to artisans, expats, students, artists, and working-class families alike. But it’s the medieval architecture and small-town feel that makes it such a contrast from the rest of the city. When Rome was getting “modernized” in the 17th-century Baroque boom, Trastevere, then a low-rent area, was a left alone. The result is a maze of narrow cobbled streets, untouched medieval churches, and buildings that look like they haven’t changed in a thousand years. When you wander down Trastevere’s crooked streets, it’s easy to imagine you’ve stepped back in time. Come along with me as I share my favorite corners of this charming and vibrant neighborhood, from famous works of art in its glorious piazzas to hidden treasures tucked away down unexplored backstreets.

Rome: Isola Tiberina 3-Hour Tour with Hotel Pickup

9. Rome: Isola Tiberina 3-Hour Tour with Hotel Pickup

Learn about the Tiber River and how it helped shape the Italy of today. Travel back to the time of the Greeks and the Romans and learn what events took place on this small strip of land. The tour starts with hotel pickup from your accommodation in Rome. With the experienced guide, stroll through Rome's most peculiar neighborhood, Trastevere, and cross one of the two bridges connecting Isola Tiberina to the Eternal City. Stroll around the island and visit the inside of the Basilica of San Bartolomeo all'Isola. Admire its architecture and hear about its unique history. Take pictures in the Piazzas (plazas) and admire the centuries-old facades of some of the island's oldest buildings. Hear the story of Santa Cecilia, a martyr and patron saint of musicians, while touring the Basilica in her name. Admire her statue and visit the crypt, all the while marveling at the relics and learning about the Mannerism-Baroque style.

Other Sightseeing Options in Church of Santa Cecilia

Want to discover all there is to do in Church of Santa Cecilia? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Church of Santa Cecilia

Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 130 reviews

Our guide Doni was both informative and enthusiastic, bringing to life the areas and sights we came across on the tour, greatly improving our experience and creating lasting memories over and beyond what my partner and I could've ever done on our own. He had an eye for detail, an undoubted passion for his subjects and combined it with great incisive knowledge and energy to leave us wanting more by the end. We almost felt that we'd been transported via a time machine to times past. Thoroughly recommend to all.

Our guide was excellent and went beyond our expectations. She is a wealth of culture and archeology. We will keep a great souvenir of the tour

Had a good extended tour through Trastevere visited churches and old shops. Received lots of information and all questions where answered.

Guide (Donnie sp?) was most passionate and very knowledgeable and made the streets come alive

The guide Jose was excellent! We enjoyed the walk.