Rome is a city with a rich history and culture, offering plenty of things to do and see. However, if you have some extra time, it’s worth taking a day trip to explore some of the surrounding areas.
From medieval towns to stunning coastlines and historic landmarks, here are some of the best day trips from Rome.
Pompeii
Pompeii is a city frozen in time, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Today, the ruins of the ancient city offer a fascinating glimpse into life during Roman times.
You can explore the preserved streets, homes, and public buildings, as well as see the plaster casts of the victims who perished in the eruption.
To get there, take the train from Rome to Naples, then transfer to the Circumvesuviana line, which takes you to Pompeii.
Tivoli
Located about 30 km from Rome, Tivoli is a charming medieval town known for its beautiful gardens and historic villas.
The most famous of these is Villa d’Este, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features over 500 fountains, waterfalls, and ornamental ponds.
You can also visit Villa Adriana, the sprawling estate of Emperor Hadrian, which includes ruins of temples, baths, and other structures. To get there, take the train from Rome to Tivoli.
Ostia Antica
Ostia Antica is a well-preserved ancient Roman port town located just 25 km from Rome. It offers a unique opportunity to see how a Roman city functioned, with intact streets, buildings, and public spaces.
Highlights include the ancient theater, the Forum, and the impressive Baths of Neptune. You can get there by taking the train from Rome to Ostia Antica.
Orvieto
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Umbrian countryside, Orvieto is a picturesque medieval town that offers stunning views, beautiful architecture, and delicious local cuisine.
The town is known for its impressive Gothic cathedral, which features intricate carvings and stunning stained glass windows.
You can also visit the underground tunnels and caves that run beneath the town, some of which date back to Etruscan times. To get there, take the train from Rome to Orvieto.
Florence
Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You can spend the day exploring the famous Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Ponte Vecchio.
You can also stroll through the winding streets of the historic center, enjoying the many restaurants and cafes. To get there, take the high-speed train from Rome to Florence.
Capri
Capri is a stunning island located in the Bay of Naples, known for its natural beauty and glamorous atmosphere. You can take a boat tour around the island to see the famous Blue Grotto, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and explore the charming town of Anacapri.
To get there, take the train from Rome to Naples, then transfer to the ferry to Capri.
Siena
Siena is a medieval town in the heart of Tuscany, known for its beautiful architecture, delicious food, and lively cultural scene. The town is famous for its stunning cathedral, which features intricate frescoes and a beautiful marble facade.
You can also visit the Piazza del Campo, the heart of the town, and climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic city views. To get there, take the train from Rome to Siena.
Naples
Naples is a vibrant city located just south of Rome, known for its rich history and delicious cuisine. The city offers a wealth of cultural attractions, including the National Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient Roman artifacts.
You can also explore the historic center, with its narrow streets and beautiful churches, and sample some of the city’s famous pizza and seafood dishes. To get there, take the train from Rome to Naples.
Castelli Romani
The Castelli Romani are a group of picturesque hill towns located just outside Rome. The area is known for its beautiful views, delicious local cuisine, and historic landmarks, including the famous Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo.
You can also visit the beautiful gardens of Villa Aldobrandini or explore the charming town of Frascati, known for its wine production. To get there, take the train from Rome to one of the towns in the area, such as Castel Gandolfo or Frascati.
Civita di Bagnoregio
Civita di Bagnoregio is a small hill town located about 120 km north of Rome, known for its stunning beauty and unique architecture.
The town is accessible only by footbridge and has been called the “dying city” because of its location on a crumbling cliff. Despite this, the town is a popular tourist destination, with charming streets, beautiful churches, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
To get there, take the train from Rome to Orvieto, then transfer to a bus or taxi to Civita di Bagnoregio.
In conclusion, Rome is an incredible city with much to offer, but if you have some extra time, it’s worth exploring the surrounding areas.
From ancient ruins to charming hill towns, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just enjoying the beautiful scenery and delicious food.
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