The Appian Way (Via Appia Antica)  is one of the earliest and most strategic roads of the Roman Republic. Sections of it remain, and it makes for a one-of-a-kind run. Even the marathon in the 1960 Rome Olympics had a section on this road. The road is now mainly a pedestrian path that runs for nearly 12 km in the south east part of Rome, ending near the Ciampino Airport.  The surface is a mix of original stone slab (which can be a challenging surface after a time), cobblestone, and dirt. There is a narrow dirt path along the side of the road for much of the way, We recommend combining the Via Antica with the wonderful paths around the Parco Della Caffarella, or even a loop around the Circus Maximus!

Via Appia Route. Starting just north of the Via Cilicia at the Aurelian Walls (built 271-275 AD), head south for as long as you like! Abouy 2.5 km of the road runs through the Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica/Parco Della Caffarella. The park map shows where there are sections of original paving. South of the park, the road continues and the landscape becomes more rural. There are some lovely cypress trees, but it’s generally open & exposed. The road is generally quiet. Pro Tip: Closed to cars on Sundays!

Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica/Parco Della Caffarella. Run separately or in conjunction with the Via Appia. The park is more rural and agricultural in nature, with many km of dirt paths though gorgeous green fields and architectural ruins sprinkled throughput. A very different feel than the busy center city or the more manicured Roman parks such as Villa Ada. ~2.5 km of the Via Appia runs through the park. A loop of the park’s perimeter is ~8 km. PARK MAP  Pro Tip: Combine a run with a visit to the Catacombs. 

Circo Massimo. qwesy qwesy

Circus Maximus. Run laps around the former site of chariot races! The Circo Massimo is now a green space with markers and paths around it, making for a ~1.5 km loop. The Circus Maximus metro station right nearby. There’s also a running track just across Viale Aventino. For more, connect to the Via Appia, using the main road south for ~1.5 km, and pick up our route above. Also, the Tiber River path is ~ 0.5 km from the Circo Massimo.