Visitors to Rome now have a unique way to experience the Eternal City with a guided running tour that combines historic landmarks and the city’s beloved feline residents. The early morning route takes participants past famous archaeological sites where cat colonies have become part of the local landscape.
Created by ArcheoRunning, the six-kilometre experience is designed for travelers who enjoy history, exercise, and the chance to spot Rome’s well-known cats before the streets become crowded.
A Tour Inspired by Rome’s Famous Cats
Rome is widely known for its large population of free-roaming cats. Many have made ancient ruins and historic sites their permanent homes.
The new running tour celebrates this unique feature of the city by combining sightseeing with opportunities to observe the resident feline colonies along the route.
Early Morning Route Through Historic Rome
The guided run begins between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m., allowing participants to explore the city in the peaceful early hours. The quieter streets provide a relaxed sightseeing experience.
The six-kilometre course is led by art historian and ArcheoRunning founder Isabella Calidonna, who shares historical insights throughout the journey.
Stops at Ancient Landmarks
The tour starts at the Temple of Isis and Serapis in Campo Marzio, where participants learn about the connection between ancient Egypt and cats.
Runners then visit Largo Argentina, home to one of Rome’s best-known cat colonies, before continuing to Capitoline Hill, the Colosseum, and the Pyramid of Cestius.
History, Culture, and Wildlife Combined
The experience offers more than a traditional sightseeing tour by blending Roman history with the city’s long-standing relationship with its stray cats.
Calidonna describes the tour as an opportunity to slow down, notice small details, and experience Rome from a different perspective.
A Unique Experience for Animal Lovers
The Cats of Rome running tour starts at €50 per person when booked as part of a five-person group. It offers an unusual way to begin a day of exploring the Italian capital.
For travelers who enjoy both history and animals, the tour provides memorable encounters with Rome’s famous feline residents while visiting some of its most iconic landmarks.
