The Appian Way

Built in 312 BC and named the Queen of Roads by the Romans who used it, the Via Appia runs from the edge of the city outwards through open countryside, its original basalt stones still underfoot. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2024. The preserved section closest to Rome runs for around 16km through the Parco dell'Appia Antica, passing Roman tombs, catacombs and umbrella pines. Most visitors walk the first few kilometres and turn back, but go further, and you'll have it almost entirely to yourself. Wear good trainers, bring water, and go on a Sunday when the road is closed to traffic.