The San Giovanni district is renowned for its rich history, culinary traditions, and vibrant festivals. This tour will take you through local markets, family-run delicatessens, traditional hostarias, and include visits to remarkable churches and ancient ruins.

Tour Features

Local Guide

Certified Official Guide

Tour Languages

English, Italian, Spanish, French, German

Duration

4 hours

Tour Size Options

Private

Includes

Food and/or Drinks

Itinerary

The San Giovanni district in Rome is a vibrant and historically rich area that offers a fascinating mix of ancient landmarks, local culture, and modern conveniences. Named after the iconic Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano—the oldest and one of the most important basilicas in the Catholic world—the district is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those looking to experience a more authentic side of the city.
The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano (St. John Lateran) is one of Rome's most significant and historically rich churches. As the cathedral of Rome and the official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope, it holds the title of "Archbasilica of the Most Holy Savior and Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist." It is the oldest basilica in the Western world, consecrated in 324 AD by Emperor Constantine.
Porta Maggiore, also known as the Porta Prenestina, is one of the most impressive and historically significant gates of the Aurelian Walls in Rome. Porta Maggiore, also known as the Porta Prenestina, is one of the most impressive and historically significant gates of the Aurelian Walls in Rome.
The Church of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme is a significant religious and historical site located in the Esquilino district of Rome. This ancient church, founded by Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, is one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome and a key destination for those exploring Rome's Christian heritage.

Tour Details

Full Description

Nestled in the southern part of Rome, near the ancient city walls and the legendary Appian Way, the San Giovanni district is a vibrant residential area brimming with food, history, and local traditions. Often overlooked by tourists, either due to time constraints or unawareness of its hidden gems, San Giovanni offers a truly authentic Roman experience.

We’ve designed this food tour to immerse you in the daily life of Romans, guiding you to the best spots to taste delicious local dishes, explore charming markets, and visit some of Rome’s most stunning churches and historical sites.

Our journey begins with a visit to a bustling local food market, where you’ll meet friendly vendors, many of whom are also the producers, offering fresh goods straight from the countryside. You’ll sample seasonal dishes, rare cheeses, fine wines, fresh fruits, and delightful deli items, all while learning about regional cuisine and agriculture.

Next, we’ll continue to some of the best family-run trattorias and eateries, where we’ll sit down to savor traditional Roman courses, including freshly made pasta. These hidden culinary treasures will give you a taste of what locals enjoy daily.

Along the way, we’ll explore the historic Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, the Cathedral of Rome, which served as the papal residence for over a thousand years before the Vatican became the Pope’s seat. We’ll also stroll by the 3rd-century Aurelian Walls, visit the Church of Santa Croce, home to revered relics, and pass through a lively flea market.

As we approach the Ancient Aqueducts, iconic symbols of Roman engineering, your expert guide will explain how they once brought over a million liters of water to the city every day. We’ll wrap up the tour with a delightful dessert, espresso, and gelato, before reaching one of Rome’s Ancient City Gates, once a key entry point for travelers and goods into the heart of the Empire.

This food and history-filled tour will allow you to discover the soul of San Giovanni, a district where the past and present come together to create a unique Roman experience.