Villa of the Quintilii (Villa dei Quintili)

The basics

The ancient ruins of the Villa of the Quintilii (Villa dei Quintili) are so massive that for centuries the site was known as “Old Rome," as locals assumed it was the remains of an entire city. Tour the archaeological site and museum on a guided bike, e-bike, or golf-cart tour of the Appian Way that includes stops at the villa along with other ancient sites like the aqueducts, Baths of Caracalla, San Callisto Catacombs, Circus of Maxentius, and Mausoleum of Caecilia Metella. Most tours trace the Roman road’s route through the Ancient Appian Way Regional Park and Caffarella Park, surrounded by the beautiful countryside of Lazio.

Things to know before you go

• If you are joining an Appian Way walking or cycling tour, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

• The villa and other Roman remains along the Via Appia Antica are outdoors, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

• The ruins of the villa are not accessible to wheelchair users.

• Roman history buffs will especially enjoy visiting the villa ruins, though a walk or bike along the Appian Way is a fun break for kids.

How to get there

The Villa of the Quintilii is located along the Appian Way, around 6 miles (10 kilometers) south of central Rome. Metro line A has a stop at Parco Appia Antica, close to the entrance for Via Appia Park. The best way to visit is as part of an Appian Way tour that includes bikes or other transportation to avoid tricky public transportation.

When to get there

The ruins of the Villa of the Quintilii are mostly outside, so visit in the spring or fall when the weather is mild. It takes anywhere from a few hours to an entire day to explore the Appian Way on foot or bike, so set off in the morning.

The Parco Regionale della Via Appia Antica

The stretch of the Appian Way just outside the city of Rome is part of a regional park, and many of the Roman ruins along the route are located within the park’s grounds.

Ways to explore

The ancient ruins of the Villa of the Quintilii are so massive that, when first excavated in the late 18th century, the site was referred to as “Old Rome," on the assumption that it was a city. Today, you can explore the archaeological site and museum on foot or by bike with combined tickets to sites within the Appian Way Archaeological Park. Guided bike, e-bike, and golf-cart tours of the Appian Way typically stop at the villa and other ancient sites, including the aqueducts, Baths of Caracalla (Terme di Caracalla), San Callisto Catacombs, Circus of Maxentius (Circo di Massenzio), and Mausoleum of Caecilia Metella.

Accessibility

Villa of the Quintilii is partially wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Pack a picnic for an alfresco lunch under olive trees with a view toward Rome.

What to wear

Weather-appropriate shoes and comfortable walking shoes

Not allowed

Straying from designated paths, touching ruins, littering

Amenities

Information displays, vending machines, picnic area

Address

The Villa of the Quintilii is located in the suburbs of Rome, at the 5th mile (8th kilometer) of the Appian Way, the length of which you can travel by foot or bike.

Driving

The site is around 7 miles (11 kilometers) southeast of central Rome. The drive typically takes around 30 minutes, and parking is available at a small parking lot at the entrance.

Public transportation

Take Rome Metro Line A to Colli Albani stop, then transfer to bus line 664 or 663 to the Appia/Squillace, which is a short stroll from the site.

Best times to visit

Close to opening or closing time for the quietest experience

Best days to visit

Weekdays are typically the quietest. It’s closed on Mondays.

Best months to visit

The spring and fall months promise the best conditions for exploring Rome’s outdoor attractions.