Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of ancient history, impressive architecture, and awe-inspiring art. However, the beauty of Italy is not limited to the capital alone. Venturing out of the city, you’ll find countless picturesque towns, historical sites, and stunning landscapes that are perfect for day trips. In this blog, we will explore some of the best day trips from Rome, allowing you to experience the diverse attractions Italy has to offer.
Vatican City: A journey into the heart of Catholicism
Despite being located within Rome, Vatican City is an independent state, and visiting it feels like a day trip unto itself. Home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, this small city-state is an essential destination for anyone interested in art and history. If you want to skip the long queues, make sure to pre-book the Vatican museum tickets online.
St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest and most important Catholic church in the world, housing masterpieces like Michelangelo’s Pieta and the awe-inspiring dome designed by the same artist. The Vatican Museums, meanwhile, display a vast collection of art and artefacts, including the magnificent Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes.
Tivoli: Ancient villas and enchanting gardens
Located about 30 kilometres east of Rome, Tivoli is an alluring hilltop town, rich in history and natural beauty. Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites await you here: Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa.
Villa d’Este is a 16th-century villa renowned for its stunning Italian Renaissance gardens and impressive water features, such as the famous Fountain of Neptune. Hadrian’s Villa, on the other hand, is a sprawling archaeological complex that once belonged to Emperor Hadrian. The villa’s extensive ruins include theatres, baths, temples, and palaces, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life.
Ostia Antica: Rome’s ancient port
Ostia Antica, just 30 kilometres southwest of Rome, is an expansive archaeological site that was once the bustling harbour city of ancient Rome. As you wander through the ruins, you’ll find well-preserved remains of ancient apartment buildings, shops, bathhouses, and a beautiful amphitheatre. Ostia Antica provides an opportunity to explore a lesser-known side of Roman history in a peaceful, picturesque setting.
Orvieto: A medieval gem perched on a hill
Orvieto, a charming medieval town in the region of Umbria, is approximately 120 kilometres north of Rome. Built on a volcanic rock plateau, Orvieto offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The town is famous for its magnificent 14th-century cathedral, adorned with vibrant frescoes by Luca Signorelli and an intricate, gold-encrusted façade.
Orvieto’s labyrinth of underground tunnels and caves, dating back to Etruscan times, is another must-see. After a day of sightseeing, be sure to sample the local white wine, Orvieto Classico, at one of the town’s many wine bars.
Castelli Romani: Scenic beauty and culinary delights
The Castelli Romani, a collection of picturesque towns nestled in the hills southeast of Rome, offer a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This area is known for its verdant landscapes, volcanic lakes, and mouth-watering cuisine.
Two of the most popular towns in the Castelli Romani are Frascati and Castel Gandolfo. Frascati is famous for its delightful white wine, while Castel Gandolfo is home to the Pope’s summer residence, which is now open to the public as a museum. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets, savour traditional Roman dishes at local trattorias, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
