Rome is a city as historic as it is spooky. Well, that may be a bit of a stretch, but the Eternal City isn’t short on ghostly tales and underground secrets!
Being one of the oldest cities in the world, it’s had its fair share of historic tragedies, treason, and spine-tingling legends. Beware, they might keep you awake after you discover them!
If you’re an adventurous traveler who doesn’t shy away from ghost stories, this selection of dark tours of Rome is for you. These tours offer a different perspective of Italy’s capital as you learn the enigmatic stories of its past.
There are even daytime options that are family-friendly. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the mysterious side of Rome!
Why trust my suggestions? Originally from Bologna, I have traveled extensively through Italy while growing up, and later in my many visits throughout the years.
I have made it my life’s purpose to help millions of people plan their perfect trips to Italy (and around the world!) and have a decade of experience curating tours and excursions. You can expect my selections to offer great value, and a memorable experience.
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. You can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
Are you in a rush? These are the best tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Haunted Rome Ghost Tour – The Original |
| HISTORICAL TRUE CRIME | Secrets of Rome: Historical True Crime Tour |
| CATACOMBS TOUR | The Original Roman Crypts and Catacombs Tour |
OUR PICK: The BEST Dark Tour of Rome
Dare to explore the city’s eerie side with a Haunted Rome Ghost Tour – The Original. As dusk descends, wander through dim streets, uncovering chilling tales of executions and murders.
Feel the thrill of ghost hunting using divining rods, sensing the spectral presence of ancient emperors and witches. Your very engaging guide will offer a spine-tingling perspective on Rome’s history!
Highlights include St. Angelo Bridge, the ominous Via dei Banchi Vecchi, a stop at the spooky Caffé Perú, and the haunted Fontana del Mascherone.
You’ll also get to take a look at Piazza Farnese and Campo dei Fiori, both famous for their dark tales. It’s history with a haunted twist!
Why is this the best tour? It’s capped at 15 passengers and offers an immersive atmosphere as you traverse the darkest corners of Rome while listening to its gory stories. You’ll enjoy stops at unusual Roman landmarks, and even try your hand at ghost hunting!
Read what the reviews say:
“One of the best tours we did in Rome! If you like dark history this one is for you! The stories were fantastic and seeing the spaces after dark takes you on an incredible journey!’’
John_S – Read more reviews
This tour includes: A walking tour, a guide, and the use of divining rods. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Great Dark Tours To Choose From
▶️ Step on the side of mystery with a Rome by Night Walking Tour – Legends & Criminal Stories. The excursion blends factual history and eerie tales, and kicks off at the majestic Sant’Andrea della Valle.
As night falls in Rome, you’ll be treated to spectral sights by traversing the ancient Corso Vittorio to the Campo dei Fiori. In this vibrant square, centuries of supernatural stories come to life with the aid of your guide.
Your path then leads to the shadowy corners of Piazza Farnese, past the Palazzo, and over the Ponte Sisto. As you cross the Tiber River, the narrative deepens with haunting accounts of Beatrice Cenci at the Corte Savella prison.
The journey continues along Via dei Banchi Vecchi, reaching the Castel Sant’Angelo, where the tour concludes. You’ll find yourself at the heart of the city to continue your nocturnal adventure!
This tour includes: A walking tour, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Not afraid to get spooked senseless? Join this spine-chilling Paranormal Night Walking Tour & Secret Backstreets in Rome. Capped at only 10 intrepid explorers, the excursion takes you around the city’s dark corners with a professional storyteller.
Stroll along narrow alleyways as you hear stories of sinister executions, blood-curdling murders, and spooky encounters. This dark adventure offers a very unique perspective of the Eternal City. But beware of ghosts!
This tour includes: A walking tour, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Historical True Crime Tour of Rome
Immerse into Rome’s sinister past with the Secrets of Rome: Historical True Crime Small Group Tour. It’s a thrilling plunge into the most ghastly historic events, from murder to poison and ghost apparitions.
Journey from the bustling Campo dei Fiori to the labyrinthine alleys. All the way, your guide will uncover stories of infamous characters like Giulia Tofana and the Borgias, right where they unfolded. Prepare to see Rome’s shady history come to life!
This tour includes: A walking tour, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Not a Night Owl? A Dark Tour of Rome in the Day
Embark on a daytime excursion by joining Secrets of Rome – The dark side Small Group Walking Tour. Kick off the trip at St. Angelo Bridge, where executions took place in the past, and catch a unique view of the Vatican.
Get goosebumps as you hear about a notorious executioner, and sneak down Via dei Banchi Vecchi, once home to a Roman serial killer. Admire Via Giulia, and uncover the secrets of Santa Maria dell’Orazione e Morte church, linked to a mysterious brotherhood.
The grand finale? Campo dei Fiori, a bustling market by day, but once a grim site of witch burnings.
While it’s an eerie tour, it’s family-friendly and suitable for children. Blending history with legends, you’ll visit unlikely landmarks including the site of Julius Caesar’s assassination.
This tour includes: A kid-friendly guide, and a walking tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Crypts and Catacombs Tours in Rome
▶️ Descend into the underground on this The Original Roman Crypts and Catacombs Tour with Transfers. With a small group of up to 16 people, you’ll explore the Museum and Crypt of Capuchins, decorated with over 4,000 monk bones, creating a chilling ambiance.
The next stop is the Catacombs of Domitilla, an ancient Christian burial site filled with intriguing frescoes.
The tour wraps up at the Basilica San Martino ai Monti, a hidden gem with stunning wall frescoes. Skip-the-line tickets and a knowledgeable guide make for a hauntingly memorable Rome experience!
This tour includes: A guide, transfers, and skip-the-line tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Ready for an underground adventure like no other? Join a family treasure hunt with this Catacombs for Kids – Private Family Tour. You’ll visit the mysterious Catacombs of Santa Domitilla with a professional guide.
Navigate through shadowy tunnels and secret passageways, solving puzzles and following clues. Witness the Capuchin Crypts and marvel at ancient frescoes while learning about the site’s history in a kid-friendly way.
End this exploration with unique keepsakes, including a map and a well-earned prize for the young ones.
This tour includes: A guide, transfers, and skip-the-line tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Ghost Escape Game in Rome
This Haunted Rome Quest Experience will take you all over the city! Armed only with your phone and an app, you’ll unravel ghostly mysteries at your own pace, as you follow the map to the city’s major landmarks.
Step foot in Piazza del Popolo, Museo delle Anime del Purgatorio, and Campo dei Fiori, unearthing legends and spectral stories.
Solve puzzles, and learn about the myths that surround St. Angelo Bridge, Piazza Navona, and Ponte Sisto. It’s a unique mix of history, horror, and high-tech haunting. Perfect for thrill-seekers and mystery lovers!
This tour includes: A downloadable app. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
