best places to visit from rome by train

21 Best Day Trips From Rome By Train (Local’s Guide)

If you’ve had enough of Rome’s crowds and traffic, it’s time to brainstorm ideas on the best day trips from Rome Italy by train and car.

Since I was born and grew up in this part of the world, I’ve spent years exploring all the amazing natural places and interesting towns near Rome.

You’re to discover incredible off-the-beaten-track destinations, and to do exactly what the locals do in order to unwind and recharge from the big city.

You don’t need to make it to Tuscany to find worthwhile places outside Rome. You can of course reach stunning art cities near Rome by train, but don’t forget the woods, ghost towns, and picturesque villages.

I love these day tours from Rome because they allow you to immerse yourself in beautiful natural scenery, try authentic local food, and learn more about the ancient and sometimes mysterious history of Rome and central Italy.

WHAT ARE THE BEST MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION FOR YOUR DAY TRIP FROM ROME?

Most of the destinations I recommend are served by a train station.

It’s advisable to book tickets online on the Trenitalia or Italotreno websites with due advance. For other more secluded places, you better rent a private car or a driver.

Traveling by bus in Italy is very convenient, but routes to countryside villages aren’t always guaranteed or are sporadic.

Day trips from Rome by train to art cities nearby

There are a few gorgeous art cities that you can visit on a day trip from Rome by train.

Maybe you won’t be able to take off and visit Padua or Venice in one day and be back (unless you fly), but rest assured that you’ll have plenty of occasions to fill your eyes with beauty and to run out of space on your camera.

1. Day trips from Rome to Naples

Just about one and a half hours by train from Rome, you’ll find the home of the Italian food which is the most popular all over the world: pizza!

Make this day trip an occasion to feast on Neapolitan delicacies and stroll around the city which overlooks the sea and the Vesuvio Crater.

Naples was founded by the Greeks during the 5th century B.C. and its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can do, see, and taste amazing things in Naples in one day. From Napoli Centrale train station it takes you only a 20-minute walk to reach “ Spaccanapoli ,” one of the main attractions in the city, while you can reach the other sites easily by subway, as everything is quite close by.

If you leave Rome early enough in the morning, you could even get on a ferry to Capri . And don’t forget that in Naples, the most exciting New Year’s Eve in Italy happens 🙂

Train from Rome to Naples

There are about 45 trains per day from Rome to Naples with the Italotreno company.

The first train leaves from Rome Termini at 07:45 am. Tickets can be as cheap as €15 if you get them online a couple of weeks in advance, while they can cost €40 if you buy them on the day before departure.

The trip usually takes from 1.10 to 1.30 hours. Trains operated by Trenitalia are as frequent but usually much slower (even 2.30 hours) and can be more expensive.

The first train leaves at 05:00 and reaches Naples at 08:00. Naples is rich in artistic treasures and local cultures. It’s the most epic day trip from Rome by train and you’ll regret you didn’t plan to spend more days there.

2. Day trip from Rome to Florence

Florence can easily be a day tour from Rome. Florence’s train station Santa Maria Novella is right in the city’s historical center, which is a UNESCO Heritage Site. If I were you, I would leave very early in the morning for this trip, as Florence is so charming that you’ll likely want to spend more than a day there.

Rome is great, but after a few days of sightseeing in Rome, when you arrive in Florence, you might feel like Cinderella transforming into a princess. The enchanting Renaissance architecture will hypnotize you with its harmonious shapes and colors. And it’s less crowded than Rome by half. The rhythm of this art city near Rome is relaxed and merry as if the huge artistic heritage wouldn’t be enough to make you want to move there straight away. Think of the iconic Renaissance Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the sights of the Ponte Vecchio from the Arno River, the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo’s David. There’s so much to see in Florence, and even if you only have 24 hours, you’ll still be able to be satisfied with your trip. In case you’ve already visited Florence, consider other options to visit Tuscany from Rome .

How to get from Rome to Florence

You can get a ticket with Italotreno for €20, a 1.5-hour trip, if you book a couple of weeks in advance, while a ticket with Trenitalia is more expensive.

3. Viterbo, home of popes and thermal baths

Founded among the hills covered in Mediterranean shrub and shaped by gorges and rivers, Viterbo holds the wonderfully preserved San Pellegrino medieval district, and untouched city walls. The locals call Viterbo the “city of the popes,” in memory of the 24-year period when the site of the papacy was moved there from Rome for safety reasons. That event transformed the architecture of the city. One of the most charming buildings is the Palace of the Popes, but the whole historical center is intriguing and pleasurable to walk through, with its many fountains in dark peperino stone and convenient local restaurants and cafes. The city is more laidback than Rome, and it will be easy to explore churches, palaces, and museums (the highlight is the Etruscan Museum of Viterbo). Among the best things to do in Viterbo , is soaking in its natural thermal baths. . There are hot-spring spa complexes like “Terme Dei Papi,” as well as more “popular” pools nearby the city. Choose Viterbo if you want to chill and be off-the-beaten-path for a bit. Consider that Viterbo has the best thermal pools near Rome and Italy in general… not as picturesque as the ones in Saturnia, Tuscany, but more accessible, less crowded, bigger, and cheaper!

Rome to Viterbo by train

The fastest routes go from Rome Valle Aurelia, Ostiense, or Trastevere stations to Viterbo Porta Romana. The arrival station is a 1 km walk from the medieval district through the ancient city walls.

Fountain in Piazza Maggiore, Bologna

4. From Rome to Bologna

With a day trip from Rome, you could have a chance to take a stroll around the city of Bologna. Bologna sits at the heart of the Emilia Romagna region, popular for its culinary tradition, which gave birth to some of the renowned Italian dishes: parmigiana, lasagne, tortellini… Bologna also hosts what is considered the most ancient university in the world, the University of Bologna , therefore the city is full of students and its atmosphere is youthful, cheerful, and creative. There are countless dining aperitivo places, small restaurants, and wineries, and they’re humming with enthusiastic people. Also, the architecture of Bologna’s historical center is something, with its 4 km of porticos that make it unique among all the cities in Italy. The easiest way to get from Rome to Bologna is by Italoreno train.

The porticos in Bologna

5. Day trips from Rome to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast

Both these sites can be a day trip from Rome, but I discourage you to visit them on the same day. To really enjoy the Amalfi Coast properly, you should treat it as a cup with the sweetest of juices and sip it as slowly as you can. These are not destinations to be covered in a hurry, therefore they’d be better enjoyed as a weekend trip from Rome.

Rome to Pompeii and Herculaneum Archeological Parks

The Herculaneum and Pompeii archeological parks are both UNESCO Heritage Sites on the coast close to Naples. Even if they were inhabited for centuries prior to becoming part of the Roman Empire, they are interesting nowadays because the archeological remains of the two Roman cities have been incredibly preserved beneath the lava from the eruption of Vesuvio in 79 A.D. The excavations in Pompeii are more spectacular and extended, and it will take you 5 to 6 hours to visit, so you may not want to spend the entire day there. The Herculaneum ones are doable in 3 hours. You will need to walk for kilometers through the remains of all the temples, theaters, and villas, and if you visit during summer, know that the sun of that region is implacable. Therefore, in order to organize your day trip from Rome efficiently, skip the lines at the entrance of the archeological areas by getting the Pompeii official tickets and the Herculaneum tickets online.

  From Rome to Herculaneum and Pompeii by train

The most convenient solution is to travel from Roma Termini to Napoli with Italotreno, and then change to a Trenitalia train to Portici-Ercolano (one every 30 mins, €1.60). When you have visited Herculaneum, take a train from the Portici-Ercolano station to Pompei Scavi (one train every hour, €3.30).

6. Rome to the Amalfi Coast

If the weather is nice and you want to spend an unforgettable day by the sea on the Amalfi Coast, you could arrange a day trip from Rome to Amalfi. Besides rejoicing in the spectacular views of Amalfi Bay, possibly eating a pizza and sipping Limoncello liquor from a rooftop restaurant, you could explore the attractions in the historical center and stroll around the small stores along the shopping alleys. This quaint small town boasts a record in economic power over the Mediterranean Sea during part of the Middle Ages, when it used to cover the main marine commercial route between Italy, North Africa, and Istanbul.

From Rome to Amalfi by public transport

Take a train to Salerno and then a ferry to Amalfi (€8, every 50 mins). Booking online in advance is necessary if you are traveling during the high season. It would also be possible to take a bus from Salerno to Amalfi, but consider that the road has plenty of bends, even though it is panoramic.

7. Ancient Ostia archaeological site and beach town

Ostia corresponds to the place where, according to the Roman poet Virgil, the mythical Prince of Troy, Aeneas, went ashore after the defeat at the hands of the Greeks. Aeneas was destined to be the founder of Rome, following the legend. Whether this is true or not, it remains a mystery. What is clear under the sky, or it may be better to say “under the earth”: it’s the archeological site of ancient Ostia, which, together with Pompei, results in the most extended archeological site on the planet. Excavations are still a work in progress. An entrance ticket is €10. Besides the archeological area that the locals call “Ancient Ostia,” you can explore the town of Ostia with its pedestrian street and lovely seaside. Ostia is still the favorite beach for a big part of Rome’s citizens. Spending the day at a beach resort and having lunch or dinner at a seafood restaurant is an idea for a relaxing day tour from Rome. However, Ostia has only some of the best beaches near Rome . Ostia Antica and Ostia Lido should be at the top of your list of day trips from Rome by train if you don’t really want to go too far from the city.

8. Tivoli: thermal baths and majestic villas

The ancient “Tibur” might be even older than Rome itself! After the Romans conquered the territory of Tivoli, noble Roman families started to build their holiday villas there. The presence of three majestic mansions from different eras open to visitors in this quaint town 30 km east of Rome in the Tiburtini Mountains makes this town perfect for a day trip. Villa Adriana (a UNESCO Heritage Site), was realized by Emperor Adriano in the 2nd century, and is preserved better than any other mansion of this kind in Rome. The Renaissance Villa d’Este employs the waters from the Aniene River to feed a complex of fountains, while Villa Gregoriana is a natural park accessible from Tivoli’s historical center. The most ancient part of the town has a priceless view of the green plain and of Rome in the distance. If this wasn’t enough to make you want to visit, consider the Tivoli natural therapeutic thermal baths. The oldest thermal center in town is called Terme di Roma . To get there, take a 30-minute train ride from the Termini station to Tivoli.

Train from Rome to Tivoli

Take a Trenitalia train from Rome Termini at Roma Tiburtina Station and get off at Bagni di Tivoli (30 mins, €2.10) to go to the thermal baths, or at Tivoli (1 hour, €3) to visit the villas and the old town.

Day trips from Rome to the Tuscia region

9. bolsena town on lake bolsena.

The town is named after the lake, which is the largest lake in the Lazio Province, one of the most beautiful lakes near Rome .

Locals visit here to benefit from the salubrious air and the tranquil environment. Since this is the farthest lake from Rome, expect a lot of opportunities to relax, especially if you visit on a weekday. Bolsena is an authentic hidden gem in Italy . It is overlooked even by the Italians! The place was sacred to the Etruscans, who considered it the center of their “country.” Copious ruins were found underwater in all the towns facing the lake, and on the two tiny islands in the lake (some researchers noticed how the cults here reminded them of the ones related to Lake Titicaca in Peru). Bolsena’s historical center is fascinating, particularly in the surroundings of the Monaldeschi Fortress (14th century). The fortress hosts the Territorial Museum of Lake Bolsena, which focuses on the geological and anthropic history of the area. Among the activities you can enjoy here are eating at a local restaurant, exploring the medieval town, and walking on the city walls to admire the view of the lake.

Inside the Etruscan Necropolis of Cerveteri

10. Cerveteri, a Unesco Heritage Site near Rome

Only 7 km from the many beach resorts on the Tyrrhenian Sea, the town of Cerveteri is another great day trip from Rome for history and wine lovers. The annual “Festival of grapes and wine of the Ceriti Hills” is held in the last weekend of August and features costume parades, firecrackers, and tasting stands with local winemakers. Just outside the city center, you’ll find the UNESCO Heritage Site of the Etruscan Necropolis of Banditaccia. The visit is halfway between a relaxing walk in a huge pinewood and a tour through a ghost town, and you can enter the majority of the tombs. The experience will leave you speechless, totally worth the €6 entrance fee, which includes a 45-min guided tour.

If you want to make this experience even more unique, you can visit the secret part of the necropolis, the Way f the Underworld, as part of one of the day hikes near Rome we organize on request with official hiking guides.

From Rome to Cerveteri by public transport

By bus: take a Cotral bus to Cerveteri from the Cornelia subway station.

By train: from Roma Termini to Marina di Cerveteri (50 mins for €3.60).

Civita di Bagnoregio

11. Civita di Bagnoregio: the town which is fading away

The old city of Civita di Bagnoregio sits in the middle of an extraordinary landscape called the “Valley of Calanchi.” Founded by the Etruscan population something like 2,500 years ago, nowadays it counts only 11 citizens. The ticket to cross the bridge and to enter the old town is €5. There are small restaurants and museums at the top, a church, and breathtaking views all over the valleys. This is without a doubt at the top on the list of the most picturesque towns near Rome .

Get there by public transport: by train to Viterbo, then a Cotral bus to Bagnoregio.

About 55 km north of Rome, the town of Sutri will surprise you with its 2,600 years of history and the legends that surround it. It was built from tuff and has been inhabited since the Etruscan civilization, as we can see from the necropolis of grottoes/tombs. Later, as with all the other Etruscan centers, it fell under the rule of the Romans, who built an amphitheater from the rock, still viewable just outside Sutri’s center. The legend says that no less than the god Saturn founded the town, introducing there the techniques of agriculture, for the first time in the history of Italy, and this event is remembered on the emblem of Sutri, depicting the god with grains. The city became an important commercial town during the Middle Ages, as it was strategically located on the Via Francigena, one of the most beaten routes in Europe. Sutri is also the first town of the Pontifical State in Italy, given up by a Lombardic king in the 8th century. Beside the historical glory, Sutri shares with the other towns of the Tuscia region a rich food farming tradition, with beans being the protagonist. The Italian Touring Club bestowed upon Sutri the “orange flag,” highlighting the excellence of Sutri’s hospitality offer.

How to go from Rome to Sutri

The nearest train station of Capranica-Sutri is unfortunately 7 km from Sutri’s historical center. The most convenient way to reach Sutri from Rome is to take a Cotral bus direct to Viterbo from Roma Saxa Rubra bus terminal and get off at Cassia/Sutri (44 mins for €3.40).

The Cathedral of Orvieto

13. Orvieto town and the gothic cathedral

The city of Orvieto rises on a huge tuff cliff in between the three provinces of Latium, Tuscany, and Umbria. Its historical and artistic heritage is abundant, and most of the visitors go there to see the Gothic cathedral of Orvieto. The cathedral is one of the most important examples of Gothic-style architecture in Italy, and it resembles the Cathedral of Siena in Tuscany. You will catch sight of the cathedral peeping out from one of the small picturesque alleys of the old town. It will be easy to find a cute restaurant to try the typical food of the region for lunch, and handicraft shops to buy a souvenir to take home. Orvieto is relaxed and has a spectacular view of the valleys surrounding it.

From Rome to Orvieto

There are Trenitalia trains from both Roma Termini and Tiburtina stations. The trip takes 75 mins and tickets start from €8.25.

Climbing the spiral staircase inside the Farnese Palace in Caprarola

14. Caprarola

Caprarola is one of the ancient villages you will meet halfway from Rome to Viterbo. This is the place where the powerful Italian Farnese family , who had large estates in the northern part of Lazio starting in the Middle Ages, built the stunning Farnese Palace of Caprarola. The walls of this three-storey Renaissance mansion with a unique pentagonal design are completely covered in frescoes. Each room has a clear explanation of the frescoes so that the palace is easy to visit independently. The cherry on top: the Italian garden and the nymphaeum. The entrance ticket to the palace is €5.

How to reach Caprarola from Rome

Take a Cotral bus to Caprarola from the Saxa Rubra station.

15. Alatri: the megalithic citadel south of Rome

The anonymity which still surrounds the town of Alatri in the province of Frosinone is inexplicable and undeserved. The citadel of Alatri is one of the rare examples of cyclopean architecture in Italy and Europe. The technique which an unknown civilization (presumably the Hittites) used to cut, move and assemble the gigantic stones together is still fuel for debates and hypotheses. The effect of this work of art and engineering on the bystander is striking: all those boulders of different shapes cut precisely and organized side by side without a cohesive substance. Historical records about the acropolis of Alatri are really poor. There are only two bas-reliefs preserved and of difficult interpretation. The city was also a thriving hub during the Middle Ages and a site of the Templar Order. Furthermore, a couple of decades ago, some mysterious frescoes were discovered in a tunnel adjacent to the medieval Church of San Francesco, representing a labyrinth identical to the one in the Cathedral of Chartres in France. All in all, Alatri is certainly one of the best day trips from Rome for history lovers!

Day trips from Rome for nature and adventure lovers

16. explore the towns in the lake bracciano natural reserve.

It takes only a 35-40-minute drive and you arrive at the most beautiful lake area in the northern province of Rome. Lake Bracciano is quite large. If you want to admire it from every possible angle, you must visit all of the three old towns overlooking its shores: Anguillara , Trevignano , and Bracciano. Read this travel guide to Lake Bracciano to plan your trip perfectly. When you are there, besides strolling in the tiny quiet street of the historical center, you could visit the Bracciano Castle , which overlooks the lake and is considered the highlight of the area. Many influential families, both Italian and foreign, fought for the supremacy of the castle and of the region over the centuries. Now the castle is a museum and you can visit it for €8.

How to reach Lake Bracciano by train

Take a train direct to Bracciano/Viterbo from Valle Aurelia, Trastevere, or Roma Ostiense stations. Get off at Bracciano or Anguillara.

You can easily visit Lake Bracciano on a day tour from Civitavecchia .

Walk to the amazing flower fields of the Castelluccio di Norcia Plateau

If you plan to travel Italy during the late spring or early summer, you might witness one of the most spectacular natural phenomenon of Central Italy: the flowering of the plateau of Castelluccio. The plateau is part of the Sibillini National Park in the Umbria Region and is a unique environment in the Italian peninsula for a few reasons. The landscape recalls Tibet, with two plains surrounded by barren hills at 1452 mt. altitude. The village of Castelluccio di Norcia, which rises on one of the hills dominating the plateau, has lost a huge part of its inhabitants following the earthquake of October 2016. A part of the town is still accessible, and you should certainly pay a visit after you’ve wandered through the flowering fields. Some special local products are lentils and honey. It will take you 3 to 6 hours to explore the fields and it will be a truly breathtaking experience. To visit the Castelluccio Plateau on a day trip from Rome you need to travel by car and use the highway. Bring with you water, a hat, sunscreen (there are no trees on the plateau, just flowers!…), and snacks to go until you climb to the village where you’ll find restaurants and cafes. The best period to visit is between the end of June and the first two weeks of July.

17. Try the zip-line in Rocca Massima, one of the longest in the world

The village of Rocca Massima is nestled in the Lepini Mountains, at an altitude of roughly 750me, and numbers only 1,000 inhabitants. This quaint, isolated town has probably the most spectacular view of the countryside and valleys south of Rome, which you can enjoy sitting with a cup of tea at the coffee shop “Bar Volo.” But if you’d rather throw yourself down into the valley, tied to the zip-line “Peregrine Falcon,” you can still do it! The zip-line is extremely steep and you could reach the speed of 175 km/hour, with an average of 110 km/hour. Look at the video to have an idea of the flight. You can find more info on the website of the zip-line. Moreover, the team will pick you up at the nearest train station, which is in the town of Velletri.

18. Visit the Macchia Grande Forest in Manziana

The forest of Macchia Grande is located 50 km north of Rome in the direction of Viterbo and 2.5 km from the town of Manziana. The woods cover 580 hectares and consist almost entirely of tall old oaks. Walking on the wide cobblestone path which starts at the entrance of the forest and bisects it will make you feel like a medieval traveler. This place is ideal for running, mountain biking, and walking. There are several clear trails which go in different directions, and a spring on the main trail where you can refill your bottle. Please avoid visiting Macchia Grande during the hottest months (July and August and the first weeks of September) because horseflies can be annoying at that time of the year. The entrance is free.

How to reach the Forest of Macchia Grande from Rome

Take a train direct to Viterbo from Valle Aurelia, Trastevere, or Roma Ostiense stations, and get off at Manziana-Canale Monterano.

19. Hike in Parco di Veio: easiest day trip from Rome by train

Just outside Rome, the Park of Veio ranges for 15,000 hectares and is delineated by the Roman consular roads Cassia and Flaminia. This is the territory of the ancient Etruscan city of Veio, therefore you will meet the ruins of a necropolis inside the park. There is a big waterfall known as the “Hell Waterfall” but it’s not so easy to reach since it’s inside a gorge. The park is best explored with hiking shoes or with a mountain bike. One of the highlights is the Sorbo Valley, a big meadow where you can have a picnic, an ideal playground for kids. To reach the park, get the FL3 train direct to La Storta/Bracciano/Viterbo and get off at La Giustiniana. From there, take bus 201 to Isola Farnese. Then follow the signs to the entrance of the park, for which there is no charge.

Train from Ostiense or Trastevere to La Storta, then walk to the Isola Farnese Village and enter the park.

20. Discover the treasured Argentario peninsula

Rome is so close to the Thirrhenyan Coast, you might want to know which are the best beaches near Rome . Sandy beaches stretch for hundreds of kilometers, actually, but not everywhere is the water as crystal-clear as in the Monte Argentario region that lies just beyond the border of Lazio and Tuscany. By the name “Argentario,” we mean a peninsula that is intriguingly attached to the mainland by three lines of land, one of those being a 7 km long beach at the back of an umbrella-pine tree forest. The area is best explored with a car so that you’re able to cover the whole perimeter of the peninsula and search for the small bays where you can swim in the emerald-green water. You can get to the Argentario region by taking a train to Orbetello. Put aside one entire day as the sandy beaches are a few kilometers out of the cute little towns of Orbetello and Porto Ercole. 

Best day trip from Rome by train with kids

21. rainbow magicland amusement park.

The amusement park located 50 km southeast of Rome has 35 attractions designed for both kids and adults. Alongside roller coasters for different degrees of bravery, haunted houses, and rapids, you’ll find naval combat and 5D reality. The park is extremely successful and can be very busy on weekends.

How to reach Rainbow Magicland from Rome

Trenitalia offers a service of train+shuttle bus for €4.50/person from Roma Termini to the entrance of the park.

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17 Fantastic Day Trips From Rome, Italy

Rome is huge and there are a million things to do, places to visit, and restaurants to try, but that’s not all. A holiday in Rome, in fact, offers more than the city itself. If you want to spend a day out relaxed and far from the mental traffic, take a train and enjoy one of the fantastic day trips from Rome that are easy to reach and can truly add to your Italian experience.

While Rome is the undisputed queen of local tourism and a limitless source of places to visit covering the span of thousands of years, its surroundings and the other cities of the Lazio region are very much worth visiting.

Rich in history, boasting amazing landmarks and palaces and counting wonderful natural parks and woods, the Latium region is all to be discovered. While these are all destinations that can be visited all year round and every month they offer something different, if you are traveling to Rome in April or May, these are great months for day trips out of the city.

If you travel by camper van, the Lazio region is a fantastic destination because it has several places to park such as the Agricampeggi, a middle way between Agriturismo and camper parking areas. Here is also a handy guide to affordable camper vans if you are thinking about starting this new way of traveling and journeying around Italy and Europe.

My personal selection of places to see near Rome includes cities that are easy to reach by train or by car. They can be truly explored and enjoyed in one day and will add incredible value to your Roman holiday.

Table of Contents

Ostia Antica

Close to Rome and very easy to reach is Ostia Antica, where you can visit both the Roman archaeological site and the medieval quarter in the modern town.

Ostia (Ostium in Latin means “mouth” as the city was located right at the mouth of the Tiber where it flowed into the sea) was an ancient Roman town mainly serving as a commercial port for the capital. From here goods of all types, especially wheat, were stored and shipped to Rome via the river.

Built as a military settlement, Ostia has later turned into a pivotal commercial and trading hub thanks to its proximity to the port. By the 2nd century, it had become a rich city with villas and residential areas where the wealthy would either live or spend their holidays, along with taverns, shops, bakeries and the mandatory temples, a political arena, an amphitheater for public games, and the thermal baths, favorite pastime in ancient Rome.

With barbarians’ attacks on Rome and its aqueducts, also Ostia faced an inevitable decline and was gradually abandoned.

Digging is always ongoing, and three years ago they found new evidence showing that Ostia is twice bigger than Pompeii .

Walking around the ancient alleys of Ostia Antica you can still see the old dwellings, ruins of the temples, and remainings of the mosaics. Admittedly, by visiting with a knowledgeable tour guide you will gain much more from this trip rather than going by yourself.

Click here for more details and prices for a private tour to Ostia Antica

• How to get to Ostia Antica : take the train from Piramide metro station, the ticket is € 1.50 for a single trip.
• Opening hours for Ostia Antica : 8.30 am-3.30/4.30 pm in winter; 8.30 am-5.30/6.30 from late spring to early autumn. Closed on Mondays, December 25th, January 1st, May 1st. Check here for more details
• Ticket fee for Ostia Antica : the full ticket is 8 €, for teachers or 18-25-year-old citizens from EU countries is 4 €. First Sunday of the month is free for everyone.

READ MORE: Our guide to the best budget hotels in Rome

A fascinating day trip from Rome is certainly to the town of Tivoli. Very old, claiming to be older than Rome as dating back to 1215 BC, Tivoli is home to the wonderful Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este, both enlisted by UNESCO ( here  and here ).

Villa Adriana is a complex of classical buildings dating back to the 2nd century AD of Roman emperor Hadrian. Here you can see the most important architectural styles of the time such as the Greek, the Egyptian, and the Roman blend gracefully, while Villa d’Este is a Renaissance-style palace and garden exquisitely decorated with fountains and statues.

In addition, in Tivoli, you can also visit the beautiful Villa Gregoriana park, Albule thermal baths, and Hercules Sanctuary built in the 2nd century AD.

• How to get to Tivoli from Rome : by train from Roma Tiburtina station, or by Cotral bus from Ponte Mammolo metro station, line B. Once in Tivoli, you can use the public transport C.A.T. to reach the different places.
• Opening hours : Villa Adriana opens daily 9 am-7 pm in summer (until 5 pm in winter); Villa d’Este opens 8.30 am-6.45 pm in summer (until 4 in winter); Villa Gregoriana opens 10 am-4 pm in March, November, December (last entrance at 3 pm), until 6.30 pm April-October (last entrance at 5.30 pm), closed on Mondays. If Monday is a holiday, Villa Gregoriana stays open and closes the day after.
• Tivoli’s official website for more info
• Entrance fee : for Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este ticket is 8 €, for Villa Gregoriana 6 €.

One of my very favorite towns near Rome, Viterbo is a real pearl. As soon as you get off at Viterbo Porta Romana train station, you cross the road and find the first gate into the medieval heart of the city.

Viterbo is famous for being the official papal seat for a short time, unofficial for much longer, and home now to what’s known as the Palace of the Popes. The palace was built when the papal seat was going to be transferred to Viterbo from Rome in 1257. It’s located on a hill in the historical quarter with a beautiful view of the city and the surroundings and it’s possible to visit both the palace and the adjoining cathedral.

The city is also known for its workshops, so if you stroll around the Quartiere San Pellegrino you can see some local handicrafts and do pretty fascinating shopping. One of my favorite art workshops is Laboratorio Artistica (via S. Pellegrino 8), where they produce the original Zaffera ceramics.

Viterbo is also home to wonderful thermal baths, so if you have some extra time in the city, do pamper yourself with some treatments or even only for a warm bath (entrance for only the baths is 10 € and you can soak as much as you like).

• How to get to Viterbo from Rome : take the train from Roma Ostiense, Roma Trastevere, Roma San Pietro, or Valle Aurelia (also a metro station, line A), the ticket is 5 €, ride from 1 hour 50 minutes to 1 hour 30.
• Opening hours of the Palace of the Popes : open daily 10 am-1 pm and 3-6 pm (in summer open until 7 pm, in August until 8 pm).
• Check the official website for more information.
• Entrance fee to the Palace of the Popes : 9 € and it includes the palace, the cathedral, and museum with the audioguide.

Tarquinia and Cerveteri

A beautiful medieval town, Cerveteri is home to some of the fascinating Etruscan ruins of central Italy. Actually, Cerveteri is the ancient capital of Etruria, and its necropolis is the most imposing among the Etruscan funerary remains.

Here you can take a stroll around the “city of the dead” and thanks to the 3D video installations, virtual reconstructions, and light and sound effects, you can see how the tombs as they were 2000 years ago and have a true time travel experience. In Cerveteri, you can visit also the Museo della Cerite which displays many Etruscan relics.

North of Cerveteri is Tarquinia, also an ancient Etruscan town where you can visit the necropolis that has been defined as “the first page of the great Italian paintings” thanks to the wonderful paintings representing scenes with hunters, fishermen, athletes, musicians, dancers, and jugglers. In Tarquinia, there is also an archaeological museum worth a visit.

• How to get to Cerveteri from Rome : the best way is by car. If you decided not to drive in Rome , take the train from Roma Termini or San Pietro and get off at Marina di Cerveteri station from where you will take a bus from line D to Piazzale Moretti or Piazza Aldo Moro, and from here line G to the necropolis.
• How to get to Tarquinia from Rome : take the train from Roma Termini station and get off at Tarquinia, from where you can either walk to the Etruscan necropolis or take a bus of line D.
• Opening hours for Cerveteri and Tarquinia necropolis : 8.30 am to sunset, closed on Mondays, December 25th, January 1st.
• Check the websites for Tarquinia and Cerveteri for more info (in Italian)
• Entrance fee to Tarquinia and Cerveteri : tickets are 6 €, for Cerveteri the booking is mandatory and costs 2 €.

Terni – Cascata delle Marmore

Terni is in the Umbria region, but only an hour by train from Rome so totally doable in one day trip. The city is known as “the Italian Manchester” or “steel city” because of its industrious modern history. This is not all about Terni, though.

The saint patron is Valentine, his relics are preserved in San Valentino Basilica, a popular pilgrimage site. So it’s easy to imagine that here Valentine’s Day is sort of a big deal and many events are organized the days before the 14th of February.

Terni, however, doesn’t end in Terni. From the station, take the bus to Cascata delle Marmore, Marmore Waterfalls, and enjoy a fantastic hike or walk (depending on the paths you choose) around this natural wonder that is actually man-made, the result of the Roman hydraulic genius in order to collect the waters from the Velino river that were becoming stagnating on the Sabina plain, and to merge the flow of the Nera and Velino rivers, making them tributary of each other.

Cascata delle Marmore is definitely one of the great day trips from Rome that will give you the chance to explore nature and delve into the history and tradition of central Italy.

• How to get to Terni from Rome : train from Roma Termini, the ride is about one hour and the ticket costs 7 €.
• Opening hours of Cascata delle Marmore : January and February the water in the falls is open only on weekends, while in the good season, they open it for a couple of hours in the morning and some hours in the afternoon and evening.
• Before going, it’s good to check out the hours from the official website (in Italian)
• Entrance fee for Cascata delle Marmore : 10 € for adults, 7 € for 5 to 10-year-olds.

A beautiful medieval town, Bracciano is also home to the Orsini Odescalchi Castle. This historic mansion is also famous for having been the venue for Tom Cruise’s wedding.

Built in the 15th century upon the commission of Napoleon Orsini to Italian architect Francesco di Giorgio Martini, throughout the century has been the object of dispute between Roman noble families Colonna and Borgia who fiercely fought for its ownership. To the point that in 1496 Pope Alexander VI Borgia confiscated it.

Residence of local noble clans and several popes, the castle is a must for any visit to this lovely town north of Rome.

Originally, Bracciano was a fishing and farming village existing already from Etruscan time, and in 1419 pope Martino V gave it up to the Orsini family. This is how, from the 15th century, the history of Bracciano is inextricably linked to the Orsini-Odescalchi clan.

The city lies on the shores of the famous Bracciano lake and is a perfect destination for a walk in nature, going on a boat, or, in summer, for a swim. This is not the only town lapped by the lake’s waters, and also hamlets like Anguillara Sabazia and Trevignano Romano make it for beautiful and regenerating day trips from Rome.

• How to get to Bracciano from Rome : take the train from Roma Ostiense, Roma Trastevere or Roma San Pietro towards Viterbo, the same train stops both at Bracciano and Anguillara. The ticket is 4 €.
• Opening hours for Castello Odescalchi : open daily. Monday-Friday 10 am-6 pm (winter until 5 pm), Saturday and Sunday 10 am-7 pm (winter until 6 pm). Last admission an hour before closing time.
• Check Castello Odescalchi’s official website for more info
• Entrance fee to Castello Odescalchi : for adults € 8.50, 6 € for children between 6 and 12 years old, free for children up to 5 years old.

Castelli Romani

Perched on the hills south of Rome is a cluster of picturesque towns and hamlets perfect for a hiking day out, a foodie trip, and a photography outing.

The symbol of the Castelli Romani group is Frascati, an ancient town famous for the historical Renaissance and Baroque villas that Roman noble families wanted to be surrounded by nature in the backdrop of the Colli Albani (Albani Hills).

With time, Frascati has become always more popular among foreign tourists as well as Roman residents who like to regenerate on the weekend with a day out in nature, silence, and good food.

In Frascati, you can stroll around its beautiful streets, visit the sumptuous villas and mansions such as Villa Aldobrandini and Villa Falconieri, the churches such as San Pietro Cathedral, and enjoy the typical dishes, from the porchetta (spit-roasted pork) to the renowned local wines at one of the traditional osterie .

Nemi is also worth a visit during a day out at the Castelli Romani. Famous for its tiny little strawberries, when it’s not the season for these juicy delights, you can still stroll around its quaint alleys, visit the museum built around a Roman ship that was found in the area, and enjoy the view of the Nemi Lake.

Among the other towns of the Castelli Romani are Rocca di Papa, Castel Gandolfo to visit the summer residence of the Pope, Colonna, and Ariccia.

• How to get to Castelli Romani from Rome : definitely by car as only Frascati can be reached by train (half an hour from Roma Termini), but once there, seldom are the public buses to go around the other villages.

Located some 45 km from Rome, Calcata is a tiny village perched on a tuff cliff. From above, you can view its rooftops and spot its medieval look like many other villages of the Tuscia region in the Lazio. Also inside, the small town still retains much of the original look it had in the Middle Ages between cobbled alleys, churches, and castles.

Strolling around the village you can stop at the many handicraft shops and artist workshops, and also have lunch in one of the many traditional restaurants.

Some of the best things to do in Calcata include strolling around the old town, seeing Castello degli Anguillara castle, visiting 17th-century Chiesa del SS. Nome del Gesù church, discovering the local artists’ workshops, and hiking in the woods surrounding the village and part of the Valle del Treja valley.

One of the most fascinating highlights of one of the most memorable day trips from Rome is strolling what’s known as Museo Opera Bosco, an open-air museum with some 40 artworks entirely made with natural material and displayed across over 2 hectares into the woods.

To reach Calcata from Rome, your best bet is to rent a car and drive there yourself. There are also some Cotral buses that stop nearby, but I’m not sure how many per day and also how many are on the way back to Rome. To get there, you’ll need to do a piece of the Raccordo Anulare (GRA, A90) and then follow the sign towards Calcata. The regional and council roads are narrow and two-way, and there are plenty of bends.

Once in Calcata, you can briefly stop at the entrance to take a picture of the view, but then you need to move the car as parking there is not allowed. Follow the P sign for the council parking not far from there. From the parking, you can get to the historic center via the staircase.

You can park inside the village only on weekdays as on weekends and holidays it’s ZTL (limited traffic zone). However, the space is very limited, so you will probably need to get to the parking.

• How to reach Calcata : by car, merge onto the GRA (A90) and take the exit SS2bis/Cassia Veientana/Viterbo. After some 23 km, take the exit Trevignano/Mazzano and then merge onto SP37 and SP16b towards Via per Calcata.

Civita di Bagnoregio

Known as the city that is dying, Civita di Bagnoregio is one of the most scenic day trips from Rome. In fact, standing on a hilltop and reachable only on foot via a long bridge, you will constantly be surrounded by breathtaking views.

Once you get to Bagnoregio, if you are by car, I recommend parking in the city center close to the tourism info point where there is the paid blue-line parking. You need to pay for the parking from the ticket machine and set the hours you are going to stay (we paid for 5 hours to be safe). Enter the info point and buy the ticket to access Civita di Bagnoregio. To get to the entrance to the bridge you can either walk or take a shuttle bus (2€ for a return ticket).

Founded as an Etruscan settlement, Civita di Bagnoregio has a long history of thriving trading hub in the Middle Ages and a rich Renaissance city. Earthquakes and the gradual collapsing of the mountains caused much of its population to move away down the mountain where the city of Bagnoregio was founded.

Over the years, Civita has been an endangered city for both the natural elements and due to its residents leaving their homes. Currently, Civita is inhabited by 15 citizens and kept alive mainly by travelers visiting it, staying for lunch in one of the main local restaurants, and occasionally also spending the night in one of the B&Bs.

Getting lost in the maze of winding cobbled alleys surrounding the main square and seeing the few landmarks such as the church and the lovely private garden property of a local organic farm.

• How to reach Civita di Bagnoregio from Rome : by public transport, you need to take the train to Orvieto and from there the bus to Bagnoregio. Once in the city of Bagnoregio, you need to walk to the entrance of the bridge to the ancient city of Civita. Your best option is to reach Civita di Bagnoregio by car and Google Maps is your friend. Depending on where you are leaving from, by car you can directly merge onto the GRA (A90) and take the exit SS2bis/Cassia Veientana/Viterbo to merge onto SS2bis and SR2. You will pass towns like Sutri and Vetralla and then reach Bagnoregio via Strada Teverina and SP6.
• Entrance fee : 5€.
• Official website .

Sant’Angelo di Roccalvecce

Are you traveling to Rome with your children? Or are you a fan of fairy tales yourself? Then you can’t possibly miss a day trip to Sant’Angelo di Roccalvecce in the Tuscia region around Viterbo. Around an hour from Rome, driving towards Viterbo and near the Umbria region is an enchanted village where time seems to have frozen.

Home to very few residents, you will have the impression of stepping into a children’s book of fairy tales. From The Little Mermaid to Snow White to Peter Pan, the characters of the most famous stories will be winking at you from every corner of the village.

Of course, alongside our heroes will be also their forever companions as well as foes. So you will see Little Red Riding Hood and the Three Little Pigs but the Wolf will be looming over them. The same applies to Hansel and Gretel: you will see them tucking into the facade of the delicious gingerbread and candy house but the Witch will be right there, sinister and wicked.

In Sant’Angelo village there is only one restaurant, Mastro Ciliegia, so if you decide to take this day trip from Rome and want to eat out, make sure you book your table at least one day before or even two if you are going on the weekend.

• How to reach Sant’Angelo di Roccalvecce from Rome : Driving is the best way to reach the village of Sant’Angelo from Rome. There are two ways, and while the distance is about the same, one is faster because it goes through the A1 highway while the other runs through provincial roads and local villages. The A1 is a toll highway but not too expensive, €5,40.

Sacro Bosco di Bomarzo

I have been wanting to visit Sacro Bosco di Bomarzo (Bomarzo Sacred Wood) for a while because I read much about it. I was sure I would have liked it but it truly exceeded my expectations. And even more surprising, my 3-year-old loved it to the extent that he even forgot it was lunchtime and he was hungry.

Bomarzo Sacred Wood is also known as the Park of Monsters (Parco dei Mostri) because of all the stone creatures that populate it. From mythological figures to pagan gods to monsters to fantasy animals such as winged horses, from the moment you step into this fantastic park, you will be surrounded by the weirdest creatures and buildings.

The creation of the Mannerist Sacro Bosco di Bomarzo park was ordered by Pier Francesco Orsini, an Italian nobleman, military leader, patron of the arts, and lord of Bomarzo until 1581. He started it around the mid-16th century and in 1552 the first section was already completed.

Alongside dreamlike sculptures and surreal landscapes, giant creatures, and grotesque elements, you can also see weird buildings such as a reclining house. We entered and felt like falling as if in a ship sailing through the rough sea.

Inside Bomarzo park there is only one restaurant that gets crowded and fully booked on busy days, especially weekends or holidays such as Easter Monday. So if you are visiting Rome during Easter and want to spend here Pasquetta, you should either bring your own food as there is a devoted picnic area or book a table at least from the day before.

There are also other restaurants in the nearby Bomarzo town but they are not many and get fully booked in no time.

• How to reach Sacro Bosco di Bomarzo from Rome : You can take the A1 highway also to go to Bomarzo park, it will be faster than crossing the little villages and it’s not too expensive: we spent €4,60.
• Entrance fee : Adults 13€.

Sutri is a very easy day trip to take because it’s just half an hour’s drive north of Rome.

Sutri is located among the slopes of the Cimini Mounts and those of the Sabatini Mounts around Bracciano Lake. The archaeological park of the ancient city of Sutri is a protected area situated on a plateau where on top is Villa Savorelli while on the valley towards the modern town of Sutri are some of the most important archaeological sites of the area.

Some of the highlights of the ancient site include the necropolis, the amphitheater, and the old church where is also a Mithra temple.

This is a fantastic and multifaceted excursion because there are many things to see belonging to different ages. Apart from the archaeological ruins, in fact, don’t forget to visit also the lovely village.

• How to reach Sutri from Rome : The best way to get to Sutri from Rome is by driving. You can also reach by public transport but instead of half an hour, it would take you three hours. By car, you can choose to take the GRA (ring road) or the Cassia road and the regional SR2. With the GRA, the road is longer but it will take less than driving through the local roads because it’s a highway.
• Entrance fee : Adults 8€.

Located south of Rome, Sermoneta is a wonderful destination to consider for a day trip from the capital. A hill town in the Latina province, Sermoneta is famous for the large castle owned by the important Caetani family, the scenic Valvisciolo Abbey, and the 13th-century Romanesque-style cathedral.

Along with visiting its historical highlights, a great thing to do in Sermoneta is simply walking around its medieval center of winding cobbled alleys. If you have some extra time, you can also visit the beautiful Giardino di Ninfa, nymph’s garden, less than 10 km from Sermoneta. Also located in the Latina province, it’s considered one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Italy.

• How to reach Sermoneta from Rome : You can reach Sermoneta by public transport and by car. The best way to reach Sermoneta is by car because it would take an hour and a half instead of the 3+ hours using public transport because you would have to change several means of transportation including trains and buses. By car, you need to take the GRA A90 highway towards Via Pontina and then merge into the local roads to Sermoneta.

Subiaco is a medieval town immersed in the beauty of the Parco Naturale Regionale dei Monti Simbruini. It’s a great day trip from Rome because it’s quite close, but if you can afford a little longer in the region, Subiaco is totally worth staying a couple of days.

The town is famous for the San Benedetto Monastery perched on the verge of a cliff in the Anion valley, but it offers fantastic walks around its historic center made of cobbled alleys and medieval buildings, including the paper workshops. Trekking and hiking fans won’t want to miss the chance for great excursions in the nearby regional park of the Simbruini Mounts, of the valley of the Aniene river, and of the charming Livata Mount, famous ski resort in winter.

• How to reach Subiaco from Rome : By car, you need to take the toll A24 highway, and depending on where you are in Rome, you first need to merge into the A90 GRA highway. From the A24, take the exit following the signs for Cineto Romano/Sambuci/Roviano/Anticoli Corrado/Saracinesco/Arsoli/Subiaco/Monte Livata. Alternatively, you can reach by public transport by taking a bus to Subiaco from the Ponte Mammolo metro station on the B line. Using public transport, it’s going to be longer, around 3 hours instead of 1/1 and a half needed with the car.

Anagni is an ancient town in the province of Frosinone. Its moniker of city of popes was earned because Anagni is the birthplace of four popes, Innocent III, Alexander IV, Gregory IX, and Bonifacio VIII.

The ancient Anagnia capital of the Ernici on a hill between the Ernici mountains and the Sacco Valley, Anagni became a thriving medieval center. Strolling around the old town, you can see its elegant buildings, Romanesque-style churches and bell towers, and important palaces such as the 13th-century mansion of Boniface VIII and the civic palace. Among the highlights is the town’s cathedral and its beautifully frescoed crypt.

• How to reach Anagni from Rome : It’s possible to reach Anagni from Rome by public transport but there are so many changes that it will take you a really long time. Plus, if you miss a train or a bus, the traveling time will increase even more. Your best bet is to drive to Anagni. You need to get to the GRA A90 highway, merge into the tolled A24 and A1 highways for some 50 km in total and take the exit to Anagni/Fiuggi.

Celleno Ghost Town

Not far from the dying town of Civita di Bagnoregio, also in the Tuscia region of Viterbo, not far from Orvieto. Built on a tuff spur, Celleno has very ancient origins. Archaeological digs found traces dating to Etruscan times, but it’s in the Middle Ages that Celleno knew its highest moments.

In its oldest phase, this was a stronghold of the Counts of Bagnoregio, lords of the whole area, built between the 10th and 11th centuries. From being a built-up center part of the jurisdiction of Bagnoregio, in the 12th century, Celleno was incorporated in the municipality of Bagnoregio. It remained a castle in the Viterbo area ruled by a public Podestà until the 14th century when Celleno was given in concession to the Gatti wealthy clan from Viterbo by the Holy See.

Similarly to Civita di Bagnoregio, also Celleno went through several natural disasters throughout the centuries, such as earthquakes and landslides. Today, it’s a fascinating ghost town next to the modern Celleno and surrounded by vegetation and beautiful views.

• How to reach Celleno from Rome : You need a car to reach Celleno from Rome. From the A90 GRA highway, merge into the tolled A1 highway towards Firenze and take the exit Orte – Viterbo SS675. From the exit Bagnaia/Montefiascone, merge into SP Acquarossa and then SP Teverina towards Celleno. You will see the signs to “Celleno Borgo Fantasma”.

Antica Monterano

Monterano Antica, the ancient Monterano, is another ghost village north of Rome located west of Bracciano Lake and some 2 km from the modern town of Canale Monterano. Its geographic location between the Tolfa and the Sabatini Mounts in the heart of the Monterano Nature Reserve is revealing of its geologic mix of tuff and calcareous formations.

An old Etruscan hub, the Romans built here a settlement, expanded the local road network and built an aqueduct. With the increasing attacks against Rome and its territories, also this area became the target of the barbarian invasions, draining the region and impoverishing the population.

This is why in the 6th century, the local bishop and the residents of nearby cities decided to move to Monterano because on top of the hill and easier to protect. Seat of the bishop and with an increasing population, this is when Monterano started to become a thriving center. This lasted until the 10th century when the seat of the bishop was moved to Sutri and people started to move away from Monterano, by then inhabited only by the lord of the castle, the feud’s functionaries, and the servants.

Today Antica Monterano is a fascinating historical sites with ancient ruins and important monuments belonging to different eras such as the Roman aqueduct, the palace of the local lord, and the church and monastery of San Bonaventura built following a project by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

• How to reach Antica Monterano from Rome : Located north of Rome, the best way to reach Antica Monterano from Rome is by car. Depending on where you are, you won’t even need to merge into the A90 GRA highway. Follow the Via Braccianese/Claudia road SP493 towards Canale Monterano and follow the signs to the ancient city.

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20 Best Day Trips From Rome by Train: Under 2 Hours from Rome

Author:  Caroline

Explore greater Rome with no less than 20 day trips from Rome by train. Head into the Lazio province and even get a taste of what nearby Umbria and Tuscany have to offer, all in under 2 hour train ride from the capital.

Rome is my absolute favorite city in Italy , scratch that, the world. The history, beauty, slightly rough around the edges locals, and a neverending stream of glorious Roman ruins to visit means I keep coming back for more.

Yet, sometimes one needs a respite from the oppressive throngs of tourists. Good thing there are plenty of things to do outside of Rome! Read on to find the easiest day trips from Rome without a car, or an expensive tour guide. These can all be undertaken by yourself, simply by hopping on the most sustainable form of transport , a train!

Please note:  This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).  Learn more .

Where to Go From Rome by Train?

Upon researching places to go outside of Rome, I stumbled upon many articles advising travelers to go to the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre and even Venice on a day trip from Rome. Let’s be realistic here, these places are not day trips. The majority of your time will be spent in transport, leaving precious little time to actually explore.

I firmly believe in quality over quantity. There are plenty of great one-day trips from Rome that do not involve endless travel time. A two-hour radius from Rome gives you access to awesome hiking, renaissance palaces, medieval castles, tiny villages and abundant UNESCO world heritage.

And the best news of all, is that you can visit them all by yourself. Here and there I have sprinkled in recommendations for day tours, just to make sure you have a complete overview of the various options available.

20 Day Trips from Rome by Train

As much as I would have loved to see all these places near Rome myself, there are still a few I have not made it to just yet. To ensure you have the best, first-hand information, I enlisted the help of a few fellow travel bloggers to create the most comprehensive list of realistic train trips from Rome.

4 Train Trips From Rome Under One Hour From the City

1. FRASCATI

Explored by Caroline from VeggieWayfarer

Why go to Frascati from Rome: The village is one of the quickest and most hassle-free Rome day trips by train covered in this article. It is a typical Roman Castelli , a group of communes in metropolitan Rome where in times past noblemen of Rome came to get away from the blistering heat of Rome.

What to do in Frascati: Located a mere 20 km from Rome in the Alban hills lie a number of Roman Castelli, Frascati being the most picturesque. The village is tiny but is home to the magnificent Villa Aldobrandini with its extravagant gardens. It is still privately owned by the eponymous family, meaning the villa itself is closed, however, the gardens can be visited freely.

Combine a visit to the gardens with a local culinary tour. Learn how to make fresh pasta , take an e-bike tour around the various local vineyards and embark on a wine tasting (highly recommend this activity!)

How to get there from Rome: Take the direct regional train between Roma Termini and Frascati. The train ride takes around 30 minutes. Tickets cost €2.10 (US$3) one way.

RECOMMENDED LOCALLY RUN TOUR | Frascati is surrounded by vineyards, making it the perfect spot to try some local wine and embark on a tranquil culinary tour with a knowledgeable local guide.

2. ALBANO LAZIALE

Why go to Albano Laziale: Located at just 25 kilometers from Rome, Albano Laziale is one of the historic Castelli Romani. Tiny villages in the hills surrounding Rome where noble families of old built their castles ( Castelli ) to enjoy cooler temperatures in summer.

What to do in Albano Laziale: The little village itself is, truth be told, nothing special. What makes the trip worth it however is the location right near the Albano Lake. Much like its neighboring village Castel Gandolfo, it is the perfect place to cool off in the summer months by taking a refreshing dip in the lake. Alternatively, hikers can walk the 9.7km (6 mi) around the hike or head into the Alban hills on a longer hike. Check out the various hiking options and routes online.

How to get there from Rome: Albano Laziale is a comfortable 55 min train trip from Rome. The regional train runs multiple times an hour from Roma Termini and costs €2.10 (US$3) one way. Check timetables and book online via the Omio platform .

TIME SAVER | Want to squeeze in various Castelli Romani into a day trip? Consider investing in day tour from Rome that combines Albano Laziale, Castel Gandolfo, Frascati and Arrici.

3. CASTEL GANDOLFO

Why go to Castel Gandolfo from Rome: Overlooking Lago Albano, 25 kilometers outside of Rome lies the former summer residence of the Pope. Castel Gandolfo is another one of the Castelli Romani villages. Until 2014 the Pontifical villa was closed to the public, but since then visitors can take a peek at the magnificent gardens and the impressive private apartments.

What to do in Castel Gandolfo : Tour the former Pontifical villa and gardens in Castel Gandolfo. The gardens and private apartments of the Pope can only be visited with a guide, while the villa itself is free to enter for anyone with a valid ticket. The gardens are absolutely spectacular, but tend to be very popular so be sure to book the earliest slot available. Time permitting, you can also walk down to the lake (a 20-minute walk from the village) to swim, sunbathe, and kayak. We unfortunately were not able to squeeze this into our schedule, but if you have a full day then it could easily be combined.

Where to eat in Castel Gandolfo: We opted for a local restaurant with views over the lake, il Grottino. The food was not bad, the views were unbeatable.

How to get there from Rome: Take the direct regional train between Roma Termini and Castel Gandolfo. The train ride takes around 45 min, after which a short 10-minute hike uphill will bring you to the entrance of the Castle. Tickets cost €2.10 (US$3) one way.

GET YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE | Purchase your tickets for both the villa and the gardens in advance as there are limited slots available and they tend to sell out fast, especially during the summer months.

Explored by Madison from Madisonsfootsteps

Why go to Anzio: Anzio offers the perfect beach near Rome. It is easy and budget-friendly to get to and offers a welcome escape from the sometimes oppressive heat of the city. There’s no excuse not to lather on the sunscreen and to head out.

What to do in Anzio: Although Italy is known for rocky beaches in tourist hot spots like the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre, you won’t find any rocks on this beach. Anzio’s coastline is all clear, white-sand and turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place to relax by the ocean with a book or go for a swim in the shallow, warm waters. While you’re in town, be sure to save some time to explore the grotte di Nerone (the caves of Nero) . These caves and tunnels on the beach are part of the ancient villa built by the Roman Emperor, Nero. 

Where to eat in Anzio: Romolo al Porto. The restaurant is known to have some of the freshest fish in Italy.

How to get there from Rome: Direct train from Roma Termini to Villa Claudia (Anzio). Travel time is just short of one hour. Ticket prices cost €4 ($5) each way. Check the train schedule and purchase tickets online .

PROLONG YOUR STAY | There is always to the option to stay an extra day and explore a truly off-the-beaten-path part of Italy, the pristine Ponce island with its rugged coastline and awesome snorkeling.

14 Rome Day Trips by Train Between 1 and 2 Hours

5. ANGUILLARA SABAZIA

Explored by Annalisa of Travel Connect Experience

Why go to Anguillara Sabazia: Anguilarra Sabazia is one of the lesser-known places to visit near Rome by train. Anguillara, as the locals call it, overlooks the southern shore of Lake Bracciano, one of the cleanest lakes in the country, and one of the nicest natural landmarks in Italy .

What to do in Anguillara Sabazia : Once you arrive in town of Anguillara Sabazia , begin the tour of the historic center by entering through the town’s ancient gate, Porta Maggiore or di Castello . Then you will find yourself in front of the Renaissance-era Town Hall and the 19th-century Fountain of the Earth. Behind the fountain is one of the most picturesque views of Lake Bracciano. At this point, you will feel like going down the stairs from the historic center to the pier and diving into the lake but wait a little longer. Next to the town hall are steps leading to the Torrione Gardens , which take you to the ancient watchtower. From there, you have an even more beautiful view. Yet there is another even more scenic spot, which you can reach by walking 5 minutes, and that is the small piazza where the church of S.M. Assunta stands. From there, begin the downhill walk to the Piazza del Molo, the liveliest place in Anguillara.

Where to eat in Anguillara Sabazia : If you want to taste something really local, such as fried lake fish or pasta with fish sauce, go to Toto Friggitoria Pescheria. Breakfast with a view can be had in Bar Gelateria Principe, alongside the lakefront promenade.

How to get there from Rome: To reach Anguillara, take a Trenitalia regional train to Anguillara from one of the following stations: Rome Trastevere, Rome Ostiense or Rome Valle Aurelia. The trip takes between 40 and 50 minutes, while the ticket costs about €3 (US$4).

LOCAL TIP: If you visit Anguillara in the summer, the best thing to do is to take a dip in the refreshing, crystal-clear waters of Lake Bracciano. Doing so will be easy because free beaches or beaches with beach clubs can be reached with a walk of just 10 minutes from the town’s historic center.

6. REGGIA DI CASERTA (ROYAL PALACE OF CASERTA)

Why go to Reggia di Caserta: Reggia di Caserta or the Royal Palace of Caserta was constructed in the 18th century for the Bourbon kings of Naples, it was designed to rival Versailles. With its grand architecture and sprawling gardens, it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors from around the globe.

What to do in Reggia di Caserta : Spend the day visiting the colossal Royal Palace of Caserta. While I have seen many tours advertising a joint tour of the palace and Pompeii in one day, honestly I do not think this is feasible. The castle and the grounds themselves will take you more than half a day to properly visit.

Where to eat in Reggia di Caserta: Diana & Atteone  Restaurant which uses typical local products.

How to get there from Rome: Take the high-speed frecciarossa from Rome Termini to Caserta and walk 500 meters to get to the entrance of the palace. Total travel time is a little over one hour. Tickets start at €35 (US$40) one way. Check tickets and book online .

FOR ART LOVERS: If you are a history buff who happens to love art, then splurge on a guided tour of the royal palace with a dedicated Art Expert. If not, simply purchase the entrance tickets online and use the very complete audio guide to tour the grounds and palace.

7. VILLA D’ESTE

Why go to Villa d’Este from Rome: The UNESCO-classified Villa d’Este has the most spectacular frescoes and enormous gardens filled with beautiful fountains.

What to do in Villa d’Este : Visit the Villa d’Este, a renowned Renaissance villa. Constructed in the 16th century for Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este, the villa became a symbol of the Renaissance’s grandeur. Tickets need to be purchased in advance as limited spots are available and do tend to sell out in the summer months.

Tip: Grab a combo ticket for Villa d’Este, Villa Adriana and lesser known Sanctuary of Hercules Victor . It is cheaper than purchasing each ticket individually.

How to get there from Rome: Direct trains run between Roma Termini and Tivolo. The train ride itself is 40 minutes, after which a 15 min walk will take you from the station to the entrance of the Villa. Tickets cost €3.6 (US$4) each way. Alternatively, grab a bus at the Rome Ponte Mammolo train station and get off at the Tivoli, Piazzale Nazioni Unite stop. This route takes roughly one hour and costs €1.50 (US$2) each way. Check timetables for trains and buses & purchase tickets online .

TOURS | Villa Adriana & Villa d’Este can be easily combined in one day tour. Getting there from Rome and then traveling between both locations requires taking a couple of local buses. Alternatively, book a great value-for-money tour including the entrance fee, lunch and transport from Rome.

8. VILLA ADRIANA (HADRIAN’S VILLA)

Why go to Villa Adriana from Rome: Villa Adriana is one of my favorite train trips from Rome. These ruins were once a Roman villa complex built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. They were buried under mounds of sand until an archaeologist stumbled upon them in the 18th century.

What to do in Villa Adriana: Walk around the 120 acres of terrain dotted with magnificent ruins, including temples, palaces, thermal baths, and gardens. What I loved most is the fact you can actually walk inside the various ruins, on the very floor the ancient Romans walked on thousands of years ago.

How to get there from Rome: We opted to combine Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana in the same day trip. To get to both villa’s you take the same bus from Rome. Departing at the Rome Ponte Mammolo train station, for Villa Adriana you get off at Tivoli Via Tiburtina Via Serena, from here a 15-minute walk brings you to the entrance gate of Villa Adriana. This route will take one hour and costs €1.50 (US$2)

Alternatively, first visit Villa d’Este, then hop on the CAT bus which drops you right at the entrance of Villa Adriana. Sit tight, a dedicated blog post on this day trip from Rome is coming soon!

9. LAGO BRACCIANO

Explored by Joanna from Theworldinmypocket

Why go to Lago Bracciano: Looking into what to do around Rome to escape the summer heat? Lago Bracciona is the perfect day trip for you. The lake combined with the village offer the perfect blend of sightseeing and relaxing.

What to do in Lago Bracciano: There are quite a few things to do in Bracciano on a day trip from Rome . Get lost in the medieval village of Braciano, and explore the 15th-century Orsini-Odescalchi Castle (entrance fee €10). Fun fact this castle was catapulted to fame internationally when Tom Cruise married Katie Holmes here.  

The eponymous lake serves as a natural reservoir for the city of Rome, meaning no motorboats can sail in the waters making it an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing. The keen eye will spot the black sand on the shores, this comes from the fact the lake is in fact volcanic.

What to eat in Lago Bracciano: Trattoria del Castello – it overlooks the castle and serves a delicious local Roman specialty: Pasta alla gricia

How to get there from Rome: Take the train from Roma Valle Aurelia station rather than Tiburtina, where the train originates. This is because Tiburtina is harder to get to than Valle Aurelia which is very central. Tickets to Bracciano cost €2.6 (US$3) each way. Check timetables .

Recommended by Sydney of Sydney to Anywhere

Why go to Ostia: One of the best places to see near Rome is without a doubt Ostia. Take a break from the busy city to explore ancient ruins and relax by the sea. Located just 30 kilometers southwest of Rome, Ostia Antica is easily accessible by public transportation.

What to do in Ostia: When you arrive, you’ll find yourself in Ostia Antica, an ancient port city that once served as Rome’s main harbor. This lesser-known archaeological site is fascinating and even rivals Pompeii in terms of how well-preserved it is. Get tickets in advance and avoid the crowds.

After soaking in Ostia’s noteworthy history, head towards the coast to enjoy the area’s beautiful beaches. The Lido di Ostia beach stretches for miles and offers a perfect spot to relax and sunbathe.

What to eat in Ostia: For a quick bite, try some delicious Roman street food such as supplì (fried rice balls with cheese) or pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice). If you prefer a sit-down meal, opt for one of the traditional trattorias and feel like your most Italian self. Officina Culinaria , a charming restaurant known for its traditional Italian dishes and lovely terrace, comes highly recommended!

How to get there from Rome: To reach Ostia, you can take the Roma-Lido train from the Porta San Paolo station in Rome. The train ride takes approximately 40 minutes, and tickets cost around €1.50 (US$2) each way. From Roma Termini, the total travel time is 1h20.

TOURS | Alternatively, hop on a day tour from Rome which includes transport to Ostia, skip-the-line tickets for Ostia Antica and a guided tour of the archaeological sites.

11. ORVIETO

Recommended by Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer

Why go to Orvieto: The city is one of the many places near Rome worth visiting. In fact, the whole city has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Combine that with mouthwatering Truffle Pasta and you have an awesome day trip.

What to do in Orvieto: The number one thing to do in Orvieto is to explore the magnificent Cathedral. probably the single most impressive cathedral I have ever seen! Next, discover the fascinating underground city and the Pozzo della Cava Stroll through the medieval streets of the historical center, visit the Etruscan Necropolis, an ancient burial site, and, time permitting, visit the Papal Palace and admire the medieval frescoes.

What & where to eat in Orvieto: Orvieto is the Umbria region of Italy where the specialty is cured meats and truffles. Read more about traditional Umbrian cuisine .

How to get there from Rome: Take the regional train between Roma Termini station and Orvieto (1 hour journey) followed by the scenic funicular ride connecting Orvieto Station to the entrance of the Historical Center. The funicular ride is a blissful 5-minutes. Door to door the journey will take just shy of 1h30.

The train ride will set you back €9.15 (US$11) one way while the funicular costs around €1.3 (US$2).

READ | 10 Picturesque Villages in Umbria

12. SPOLETO

Why go to Spoleto: Spoleto is one of the most underrated side trips from Rome. This hamlet is perched on the side of a cliff and is slightly more off the beaten path, making it wonderful to explore even in summer (when we decided to go!).

What to do in Spoleto: The village is a treasure trove of little alleyways filled with Roman arches, a Romanesque cathedral, and tiny local eateries. All this is protected by a large medieval fortress and surprisingly intact medieval city walls.

Tip : Just outside of Spoleto you can find the impressive  Marmore Falls , a 2000-year-old man-made waterfall with its very own working hours. Getting there via public transport however from Spoleto is virtually impossible if you are on a day trip as it will mean an extra 4 hours of travel time.

What & where to eat in Spoleto: Make sure to try to local desert Crescionda from one of the many restaurants right under the medieval fortress, to enjoy the very best views over Spoleto.

How to get there from Rome: The regional train takes you direct from Roma Termini to Spoleto Train Station. Expect to spend about 1h25 on the fast train and 1h40 on the slower train. Tickets start at €10 (US$11) for the slow train and €22 (US$25) for the fast train.

13. FLORENCE (FIRENZE)

Explored by Martina from PlacesofJuma

Why go to Florence: Florence or Firenze is one of the most popular one-day trips from Rome. The city is a treasure trove of culture, Renaissance architecture and mouthwatering restaurants.

What to do in Florence: Once in Florence make a beeline for the magnificent Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo, climb to the top of the dome to enjoy the panoramic view of the city. Next peruse the Uffizi Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Renaissance artworks by famous artists such as Botticelli and Michelangelo. There is always a long queue, so however, be sure to book your ticket in advance .

Take a leisurely stroll across the famous Ponte Vecchio, and get lost in the narrow streets and charming squares of Florence’s historic center. Time permitting climb up to the Piazzale Michelangelo, grab a glass of wine and watch the best sunset over Florence.

Where & what to eat in Florence: Grab a drink in Ala Grande Caffè or try a typical Florentine schiacciata at all’antico vinaio.

How to get there from Florence: To reach Florence from Rome, it’s best to take a high-speed train from Rome’s Termini Station to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station. The trip takes about 1.5 and tickets cost around €50 (US$50) each way. Check time table and book tickets.

TOURS & SKIP THE LINE TICKETS | When we went, the tickets for the Uffizi gallery were sold out. Make sure to book them in advance! Take a guided tour & skip the huge queues for the gallery & Accademia.

14. POMPEII

Recommended by Helen of Helen on her holidays

Why go to Pompeii from Rome: Pompeii was a bustling Roman town until AD79, when the volcano Mount Vesuvius erupted. The town was buried under ash and rocks for many hundreds of years until archaeologists began excavating the site and discovered its amazingly well-preserved ruins. Today, Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. What to do in Pompeii: Pompeii is a huge site and can feel overwhelming, so when you visit Pompeii it’s best to get a guided tour to give you some background before you head off exploring on your own. One of the most exciting things about Pompeii is that it’s still an active archaeological site and new discoveries are being made all the time. The new ‘ House of the Day’ program lets you see inside houses that aren’t usually open to the public – a different one for each day of the week.

How to get there from Rome: Pompeii is 15 miles south of Naples and is easily accessible by train. The quickest way to get to Pompeii is to take a fast Italo or Frecciarossa train to Naples then the local train to Pompeii. Total travel time around 1h40. Train tickets will cost around €60 (US$65) if booked on the day. Check timetables and book in advance via the Omio platform . There are also plenty of tours available from Rome .

Guided Tours of Pompeii: Immerse yourself in history by taking the top-rated guided tour with an archeologist through the ruins. Browse through the various tours on offer

15. FREGENE

Why go to Fregene from Rome: A trip to Fregene is the local’s favorite thing to do around Rome during the summer. It is the perfect spot to escape the heat, although it is a little further out than the beach in Ostia.

What to do in Fregene: It’s all about relaxing and watersports in Fregene. This coastal town has a large stretch of pristine sandy beaches, with plenty of lidos (places renting deckchairs and umbrellas), beach bars, and even various surf schools. The town comes alive in summer and becomes very, very busy.

How to get there from Rome: Fregene is located very close to the Rome Fiumicino Airport. The fastest way to get to Fregene from Rome is to hop on a direct train from Rome Termini to Rome Fiumicino Airport (30 minutes). Tickets cost €14.5 (US$16) one way there switch to the regional bus in the direction of Viale Castellammare (18 minutes).

16. VITERBO

Recommended by Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Why go to Viterbo from Rome: The capital of the Tuscia region, Viterbo is a beautiful medieval town entirely surrounded by walls, with gates that allow access to the historic center. A walk around Viterbo historic center is a pleasant experience in and of itself, if anything because you won’t find any of the tourist crowds of the capital.   What to do in Viterbo: Make sure to visit the Palazzo dei Papi, Viterbo’s Papal Palace. This is where the first conclave in history took place. Grab an audio guide to learn more about the town’s illustrious history. Next to the palace, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo is also built in the typical piperino stone that characterizes most of the historic center and is one of the most beautiful churches in the city. It’s a short walk from there to San Pellegrino, the medieval quarter which is a series of cobbled narrow alleys, archways and balconies adorned with colorful flowers.

Where to eat in Viterbo: Al Vecchio Orologio, a trendy osteria that serves dishes of the local tradition such as lombrichelli pasta. There’s also Enoteca San Lorenzo, which has a smaller menu but a fantastic wine selection. Both of them are in the historic center.

How to get there from Rome: Direct trains to Viterbo Porta Romana station depart regularly from Roma Ostiense train station (nearest metro station Piramide). The journey lasts around one hour and 40 minutes and tickets are €5,60 one way.

LOCAL TIP | The boutiques that line Corso Italia are perfect for a shopping spree – and prices are a lot cheaper here than in Rome. Stock up on your souvenirs here, instead of the capital.

Recommended by Merryl of Merrylstravelandtricks

Why go to Gaeta from Rome: Gaeta is a beautiful coastal town, with a wonderfully preserved historical center. It’s quaint, uncrowded, and has tons of cool watersports on offer. The ideal day trip destination from Rome or Naples . What to do in Gaeta: Start your day trip in the historical center filled with meandering cobblestone streets, charming piazzas and medieval buildings. Keep an eye out for the Roman ruins sprinkled throughout town. Weather permitting, make the trek up Mount Orlando for stunning panoramic views of Gaeta and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea.

Head to Serapo Beach to work on your tan. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and picturesque views or sign up for a snorkeling day trip and explore the marine life here.

Where to eat: Antica Pizzeria da Ciro in Gaeta. This acclaimed pizzeria serves up mouthwatering pizzas with a wide range of toppings, showcasing the region’s culinary excellence.

How to get there from Rome: Gaeta can easily be reached from Rome by taking a train from Roma Termini to Formia-Gaeta station, followed by a short bus ride to the center. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and costs around €15 (US$17) each way + €3 (US$4) bus fare (to be paid in cash to the bus driver). Book your train tickets in advance via the Omio platform .

18. BOLOGNA

Recommended by Emma from Travelonatimebudget

Why go to Bologna: Bologna is a slightly longer train trip from Rome, but this ancient university city is oozing charm, cozy bars and the youthful energy of hundreds of students.

What to do in Bologna: The city has wonderful architecture and grand historical buildings which are best seen on a walking tour of the center . Highlights include Piazza Maggiore , with the 14 th century gothic Basilica di San Petronio. Nearby is the Renaissance-style Palazzo dei Banchi, with its striking green dome, and the Palazzo del Podestà, with the Torre dell’Arengo bell tower next to it. This has a cavernous whispering gallery (Voltone del Podestà), which is known for its fantastic acoustics. 

Another must is a visit to Bologna’s Two Towers (Le Due Torri), both built during the 12th century. The Asinelli Tower is the tallest (230 feet) and from a distance appears to be leaning over. You can climb it for incredible city views. And finally, time permitting visit the former Jewish Ghetto and the University district.

What to eat in Bologna: Bologna is Italy’s culinary heartland. Head to the Quadrilatero district and grab a tagliere (literally wooden plank) filled with a variety of (cured) meats and cheeses. Or delve into the local specialty: Lasagna.

How to get there from Rome: The fast Italo or Frecciarosa train Fast trains run daily. The cost of a return journey starts at around €30 (US$ 35). Total travel time is around 2 hours. Booking in advance is required, check schedules via the Omio platform .

FOODIE TIP | Bologna runs a very good value/money street food walking tour that combines food and history. This tour is less suitable for vegetarians.

2 Places to Visit Near Rome by Train Just Over 2 Hours Away

Explored by Kristin from Scotlandlessexplored

Why go to Pisa: The leaning tower of Pisa is such an iconic landmark in Italy that is is well worth the, slightly longer, train trip from Rome.

What to do in Pisa: The 12th-century leaning tower is an absolute highlight. Fun fact, it was meant to be much taller than it is today but it started to lean after the second story was added. It is actually the clock tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta but the tower has become much more famous than the cathedral itself. Get your tickets and book a guided tour in advance to skip the long queues.

The leaning tower might be your reason to visit Pisa but it will likely be the cathedral and the architecture of the rest of the town which is what you will remember most from your trip. Whilst exploring the town don’t miss Pallazo dei Cavalieri, Piazza dei Miracolli, Santa Maria della Spina or a walk along the river.

Where to eat in Pisa: Porci Comodi is known for its sandwiches and antipasti boards. V. Beny is a great option for fine dining.

How to get there from Rome: High-speed frecciarosa trains connect Roma Termini to Pisa Centrale. The train journey takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes one way. Ticket prices start at €30 (US$35) one way. Check timetables and purchase train tickets.

READ | Heading further North? Check out my comprehensive northern Italy itinerary for inspiration.

Explored by Caroline from Veggiewayfarer

Why go to Assisi: Assisi is the home and final resting place of Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan order. To this day the UNESCO-classified town of Assisi remains a very important pilgrimage site.

What to do in Assisi: Head to the Basilica di San Francesco where the remains of Saint Francis are buried. The frescoes inside the Basilica are absolutely astounding and could rival those of the Sistine Chapel. It’s worth investing in a guided tour of the Basilica as there is so much to see inside. The little town is positively bursting at the seams with churches, so go on a church-hopping bonanza. Aside from the Basilica, pop into the Cathedral of San Rufino, the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Assisi and if you are up for a little walk the UNESCO-classified Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli.

Where & what to eat in Assisi: Read up on traditional Umbrian cuisine before you head out.

How to get there from Rome: From Rome Turburtina Station take the regional train direction Perugia and stop in Assisi (train journey 1h56, price €12,70 (US$ 14) one way). From the Assisi train station either walk 45 min to the historical center of Assisi or hop on a local bus that stops right in front of the Basilica (journey time 10 min).

SAVE TIME | I will not hide the fact that Assisi is a very, very long day trip from Rome if you want to take the train. But it is so spectacular, that it is truly worth visiting. GetYourGuide has a reasonably budget-friendly day tour from Rome combining Orvieto and Assisi .

The Various Train Destinations From Rome on a Map

Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where the various train trips from Rome discussed above are located. Yellow pins are places near Rome reachable in under one hour, red pins are reachable between one and two hours and the green pins are slightly longer than 2 hours.

Where to Stay in Rome

Spending a few days exploring in and around Rome and looking for a locally run hotel to sleep in? Here are my favorite hotels, for various budgets. Or browse various hotels in Rome available.

RECOMMENDED: Roma Suite Monti

A no-nonsense hotel with the absolute best location in the trendy Monti neighborhood. Great value for money and the exact hotel where I stay every time I visit Rome. Location: 10-minute walk from the Colosseum

GREEN HOTEL: Bio Hotel Raphael

Hotel Raphael has the very best vegetarian and biological restaurants in the city on a beautiful panoramic rooftop. They conscientiously use natural materials throughout their hotel, including a magnificent large ivy-covered façade. Location: Around the corner from Piazza Navona

LUXURY WITH A VIEW: Palazzo Manfredi

This 5-star hotel has the absolute best location and views over the Colosseum. The trendy rooftop cocktail bar is an absolute added bonus. Location : Right opposite the Colosseum

Train Travel from Rome – The Practicalities

Types of trains to take from rome.

REGIONAL TRAIN (L) : A slower train that makes stops at all stations between the larger cities. The include the InterRegionale (IR), Regionale (R), Diretto (D), and Espresso (E). Tickets can be bought right before boarding the train, and are much cheaper than the below options.

INTERCITY (IC) : A fast train that connects larger cities. They usually cover the same route as the below AV trains but are a bit slower, and cheaper. makes limited stops between the larger cities. Tickets can be bought right before boarding the train, no prior reservation needed.

HIGH SPEED TRAINS (AV): The alta velocità or high-speed trains are the fastest trains run by TrenItalia. These trains require a reservation in advance and are usually more expensive. The trains include:

• Frecciarossa  – The “red arrow” trains, the fastest of the bunch serving Turin, Milan, Bologna, Rome, Naples, and Salerno.
• Frecciargente  – The “silver arrow” trains, serving Rome, Venice, Verona, Bari/Lecce, and Lamezia Terme/Reggio Calabria.
• Frecciabianca  – The “white arrow” trains, serving Milan, Venice, Udine, Trieste, Genoa, Rome, Bari, and Lecce.

ITALO TRAINS: Are run by a privately owned company and are comparable in price to the AV trains. They have more amenities (free wifi, “no sound” car, etc.) and need to be booked in advance. Italo trains serve Milan, Venice, Padua, Rimini, Bologna, Pesaro, Ancona, Florence, Turin, Rome, Salerno, and Naples.

Purchasing Tickets & Taking the Train in Rome

How to purchase train tickets.

Traveling around Rome on the train requires you to purchase tickets in advance. For regional trains, this can be done via the TrenItalia website or in the station from one of the red vending machines (pictured above). Make sure you are buying a ticket from a TrenItalia vending machine and not the Italo vending machine (which also happens to be red and can therefore be a bit confusing).

Types of train tickets in Italy

There are four types of train tickets in Italy. Super Economy, Economy, Base, and Ordinaria. The first three are available for all high-speed and Intercity trains, while Ordinaria is only valid for the regional trains. For most of the train trips in Rome covered above the Ordinaria fare is applicable.

Finding the right track

“Binari” is the Italian word for tracks and “ai treni” directly translates into “to the trains”. Around Roma Termini Train Station most signs are in both Italian and English. Inside the main entrance hall, a large digital panel indicates the train number, destination, and track.

Useful information : Check the latest timetables and book your tickets for both domestic and international trains online .

Where to Store Your Luggage When Exploring Places Around Rome

If you are traveling around Italy and want to embark on a day trip from Rome, without having to bring all your luggage along, there are tons of cheap luggage storage options available.

INSIDE ROME TERMINI STATION: Follow the signs for Baggage Storage which lead you to the Kipoint luggage facility (pictured left). The last luggage dropoff and pickup is at 08.30 pm, open 7/7. Please note very large-size bags are not accepted. Prices start at €10/day. Book online to skip the line.

OTHER LUGGAGE STORAGE IN ROME : Just outside of Termini Station (starting from €7/day, pictured above right), near the Vatican Museum (starting €8/day), near Piazza Navona (starting €8/day) or near the Colosseum (starting €8/day)

Train Trips From Rome Tips

Can i take a day trip from rome to positano.

Travel time between Rome and Positano is at least 3h20, each way. Despite this being a highly popular guided day trip from Rome , personally I would try and spend at least 2 days exploring the Amalfi Coast and Positano.

Can I take a day trip from Rome to Venice?

If you are relying on public transportation the honest answer is, no it’s not realistic. A one-way trip takes close to 4 hours, meaning there and back is 8 hours of public transport. Skip the expensive tours, you will be spending more time on the train than actually exploring beautiful Rome.

Is it worth getting rail passes in Italy if I plan on making a few day trips from Rome?

No, the interrail pass is considerably more expensive. Starting at €133 for 3 days of travel, which equates to €44 a day. Unless you are thinking of taking the, more expensive, high-speed Frecciarossa trains it is cheaper to stick to booking individual tickets.

What is the difference between ItaliaRail and Trenitalia?

Trenitalia is owned by the Italian government and as such the main train operator in Italy. ItaliaRail sells Trenitalia tickets and is privately owned.

Do they check train tickets in Italy?

Yes! Every time I have taken a train in Italy, my ticket has been checked on the train.

The Best Day Trips to Take From Rome via Public Transport

My top five places to visit near Rome are Villa Adriana , Assisi , Reggia di Cassert a, Pompeii, and Castel Gandolfo . Each of these places can be easily reached by Rome, leaving you with plenty of time to explore and learn about their plentiful history.

If I was really pinched for time then I would definitely consider taking a day trip from Rome by train to Florence. While one day in Florence is not enough to really see everything that is on offer, it gives visitors a taste of Renaissance grandeur and the beauty of Tuscany. The high-speed, direct train connection makes travel between the cities an absolute breeze.

MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING ITALY

FOOD: Vegetarian Food Guide to Italy NORTHERN ITALY: Awesome 2-Week Northern Italy Itinerary NORTHERN ITALY:   Where to Stay in the Dolomites NORTHERN ITALY: Sustainable Guide to South Tyrol SICILY: Local Guide to Palermo SICILY: Where to Stay in Sicily

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Caroline Muller is an award-winning travel blogger. She writes and photographs full-time while oscillating between Sicily and Brussels as a home base.  She has documented over 60 countries across six continents and does not plan to stop any time soon. A staunch vegetarian for over 25 years, she loves exploring local cuisine in search of that perfect (plant-based) mouthful. With this blog, she hopes to help you travel slower, more sustainably and a hella lot more meaningfully. Pack your bags!

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Thanks for dropping in! My name is Caroline , and I am a full-time writer & photographer. With this blog, I hope to harness the power of travel to do good in the world. Think connecting with local cultures, sustainable tourism , and in-depth guides to known and lesser-known adventures. Adventure awaits!

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21 BEST Day Trips From Rome By Train You’ll Love In 2024

If you’re looking to add some day trips to your roman holiday, you’re in the right place..

All roads lead to Rome…but there are hidden gems to be found at the other ends of those roads! My family and I spent a whole month in Rome during our family gap year , touring all the hotspots and hidden gems the city has to offer, from climbing Aventine Hill and exploring ancient ruins to drinking cappuccinos (cappuccini!) in bars and eating gnocchi on Thursdays.

But, the adventure doesn’t end at the capital city limits! The rest of Italy is just a train ride away, and there is so much to discover. That’s why today I’m sharing some of the best day trips you can take from Rome on the train.

Short on time? Here’s our top 3 favorite day trips from Rome:

• Naples: Explore Naples, the gateway to southern Italy, by taking the high-speed train from Rome. Be sure to have some pizza in old Napoli — that’s amore!
• Florence: We love Florence and recommend dividing your time between exploring the gorgeous buildings in the Piazza del Duomo and browsing the masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery.
• Ostia: Just 30 minutes on the train gets you to Ostia, where you can explore archeological ruins AND have a beach day!

From Rome, you can get to the coast for some beach time, explore beautiful art and architecture in the heart of Tuscany, or head south in search of the best Italian food. Let’s dive into the 21 best train trips from Rome that’ll have you saying “perfetto!”

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21 Day Trips From Rome By Train

Ready to swap the busyness of Rome for new horizons, if only for a day? Italy’s efficient train system is your golden ticket to adventure. The day trips listed below are roughly ordered by travel time, from under an hour to just under 3 hours away.

Keep in mind that sometimes it’s faster to get to the locations that are further away from Rome. You can take advantage of high-speed trains on some routes to go far in a surprisingly short amount of time!

I’ll also share some additional destinations that would be a bit of a stretch for a day trip, but if you have at least two days, these are must-visit locales!

From ancient ruins that aren’t the Colosseum to seaside escapes where the gelato tastes even sweeter, these 21 day trips by train are about to make your trip to Italy unforgettable. Let’s hit the tracks and explore!

Just a 30-minute train ride from Rome, you can visit Ostia Antica — an extensive archaeological site that rivals Pompeii for its well-preserved ruins. Wander through the old streets, amphitheater, and remnants of baths and houses, all telling tales of daily life in ancient Rome.

After your history walk, head to the beach in Ostia for some sun and sand before heading back to Rome after the perfect day trip!

How to get to Ostia from Rome:

Catch the Rome-Lido train from the Roma Porta San Paolo station, and in just 30 minutes, you’ll step out at Ostia Antica station. 

Tivoli, a historic hilltown, is known for its stunning villas, especially Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana), both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Villa d’Este is renowned for its Renaissance architecture and terraced gardens dotted with fountains, while Hadrian’s Villa offers a peek into the life of the Roman emperor, with ruins spread over a vast area.

How to get to Tivoli from Rome:

There are several train routes from Rome that will get you to Tivoli in 35 minutes to just over an hour. From the Tivoli station, take a local bus or taxi first to Villa d’Este then to Villa Adriana.

3. Frascati

Just about 30 minutes from Rome by train, you’ll find the town of Frascati in the Castelli Romani area. Famous for its villas, lush gardens, and especially for its white wine, Frascati provides an escape into the Roman countryside with plenty of dining options where you can enjoy local specialties and wine tasting.

If I was planning your day trip itinerary to Frascati, I’d definitely include a stroll through the gardens at Villa Aldobrandini, and then a relaxing lunch accompanied with some locally-made white wine.

How to get to Frascati from Rome:

From Roma Termini, you can reach Frascati by train in just 30 minutes. 

4. Bracciano

Bracciano is best known for its picturesque lake, Lago di Bracciano, and the imposing Castello Orsini-Odescalchi, where Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes tied the knot. The town is perfect for a leisurely day of exploration, with the lake providing a serene backdrop for picnics and photos.

The castle is a beautifully preserved example of military architecture with a rich history. Take a guided tour here before heading to the lake for a dip!

How to get to Bracciano from Rome:

From Rome’s Valle Aurelia station, the trip to Bracciano takes under an hour. 

Life is beautiful in Arezzo (this is where the movie was filmed!), a Tuscan city rich in history and art. Less crowded than nearby Florence, Arezzo is a perfect day trip from Rome.

Start your visit by admiring the Piero della Francesca frescoes in the Basilica di San Francesco, considered some of the finest examples of Renaissance art. Then, enjoy a leisurely lunch in the Piazza Grande, the city’s sloping main square, where you can soak in the atmosphere surrounded by medieval buildings.

Spend the rest of your day ambling by impressive churches like Santa Maria della Pieve and Santa Maria delle Grazie or admiring Vasari’s frescoes at Casa Vasari.

How to get to Arezzo from Rome:

From Roma Tiburtina, you can take the high-speed train and arrive in Arezzo in just about one hour.

Naples, with its vibrant streets, rich history, and world-renowned cuisine, is the gateway to the southern part of Italy. You could definitely spend more than a day in “old Napoli,” but since the high-speed train will get you there in just over an hour, it totally works as a day trip from Rome!

Dive into the heart of Neapolitan culture by tasting authentic pizza, exploring the historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and visiting the impressive National Archaeological Museum. 

How to get to Naples from Rome:

Catch a direct, high-speed train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale.

When in Napoli, make pizza!

Try this Authentic Italian Pizza-Making Workshop with Drinks. That’s amore!

A short train ride from Naples, the ancient city of Pompeii offers a hauntingly vivid look into life (and sudden death) in Roman times, preserved under volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius. 

If you choose to combine a visit to both Naples and Pompeii, you might want to consider making it a 2-day trip to have time to fully experience both cities.

The main draw in Pompeii is definitely the preserved ancient city, so make sure you’re headed to the right place, versus the modern city center. You’ll need a ticket to enter Pompeii Archaeological Park, and it’s best to buy ahead of time.

Wandering through Pompeii’s ruins, you’ll see frozen moments of daily life, grand villas, and striking frescoes. You can definitely spend the majority of a day here, or you could choose to take in the highlights in a few hours.

How to get to Pompeii from Rome:

First, take a high-speed train from Rome to Naples (Napoli Centrale). Then, switch to a local train to Pompeii Scavi. The whole journey will take approximately an hour and a half.

Guided tour of Pompeii

Tour the highlights of Pompeii in two hours with this Small-Group Tour with an Archeologist .

8. Florence

Florence, the jewel of the Renaissance, is brimming with art, culture, and history. We spent a day exploring Florence when we lived in Lucca, Italy for a month, but it’s a very do-able day trip from Rome!

We suggest starting your day at the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michaelango’s David and other works of art. Then, head to the Piazza del Duomo to visit the breathtakingly beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

If you’re feeling up to it, you can climb up to the giant red dome, but we actually recommend climbing Giotto’s Bell Tower instead because from there you can get amazing photos OF the Duomo.

Once your legs recover, take a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio (preferably with some gelato in hand) before browsing the masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery.

Wrap up your day by admiring the stunning view from either the Boboli Gardens or Giardino Bardini.

How to get to Florence from Rome:

Direct high-speed trains connect the heart of Rome to the heart of Florence (Firenze) in about an hour and a half.

Tour the Duomo

With this Cathedral, Duomo Museum, and Baptistery Tour you’ll get pre-reserved entry tickets and an optional Giotto’s Bell Tower climb.

Orvieto is a unique little city north of Rome and definitely a worthy day trip. Its stunning cathedral, Duomo di Orvieto, features a façade adorned with mosaics and sculptures that are a testament to Italian Gothic architecture.

The city is also known for its system of underground caves and tunnels, which can be explored through guided tours.

How to get to Orvieto from Rome:

Direct regional trains from Rome’s Termini station to Orvieto take about 1.5 hours. From the Orvieto station, you can take a short, scenic funicular ride up the hill (we love a funicular!).

Assisi is a serene town in the Umbria region of Italy. It’s known for being the birthplace of St. Francis and you’re sure to feel the city’s innate peace and spirituality during your visit.

Assisi’s basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage site and pilgrimage site for many, is adorned with frescoes by Giotto that narrate the life of St. Francis.

The town’s medieval streets invite you to wander and discover hidden chapels, artisan shops, and stunning views of the Umbrian countryside. Trains from Rome take about 2 hours, making Assisi a great choice for a contemplative retreat into Italy’s spiritual heartland for a day.

How to get to Assisi from Rome:

Travel by train from Roma Tiburtina to Foligno, about an hour and 40 minutes. From there, a local bus can get you to Assisi in about 20-30 minutes.

11. Pistoia

Pistoia, a hidden treasure in Tuscany, offers a glimpse into authentic Italian life away from the tourist trails. We almost stayed here on the Tuscan leg of our backpacking trip across Europe, but we ended up in nearby Lucca instead.

Known for its charming medieval square, the Piazza del Duomo, Pistoia is rich in history and culture. The Cathedral of San Zeno and Baptistery of San Giovanni showcase the best of Tuscan architecture, and the lively local markets are a must to experience.

How to get to Pistoia from Rome:

Travel from Rome to Florence via high-speed train (about 1.5 hours) and then take a regional train to Pistoia, which takes around 40 minutes to an hour.

12. Bologna

Venture north to Bologna, about two hours on the train from Rome, and you’ll be rewarded with a day full of immersive culture, delicious food, and gorgeous views.

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is known for being the site of oldest university in the Western world, the University of Bologna.

The city’s distinctive porticoes, stretching for kilometers, provide sheltered walkways through its historic heart, leading to the Piazza Maggiore and the imposing San Petronio Basilica. 

Food lovers will revel in Bologna’s gastronomic offerings, from classic Bolognese sauce to fresh tortellini. It’s a great place to take a food tour!

Don’t miss the chance to climb the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of the city’s red rooftops and the surrounding countryside.

How to get to Bologna from Rome:

Direct high-speed trains take you from Rome Termini to Bologna Centrale in about 2 to 2.5 hours.

Bologna Food Tour

Taste the best of Bologna with this walking food tour!

13. Perugia

Perugia, the capital of Umbria, is a vibrant hilltop city known for its universities, annual jazz festival, and delicious chocolate! Getting to Perugia from Rome takes about two hours by train, making it an easy escape to one of Italy’s most lively cultural hubs. 

The MiniMetro, an automated people mover, is a fun and unique way to reach the city center upon arrival. Once there, explore the city’s arched stairways, cobbled alleys, and impressive art galleries, including the National Gallery of Umbria. 

Make sure to visit one of the many chocolate shops before returning to Rome!

How to get to Perugia from Rome:

You can take a direct train to Perugia from Rome’s Tiburtina station, and the journey takes about 2.5 hours.

Here’s a city you’ve probably heard of! You’ll spend most of your day in the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli, where you’ll find the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Pisa Baptistery, the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Campo Santo. The latter three represent the stages of birth, life, and death, hence the area being called the “square of miracles.”

The Leaning Tower was originally just the bell tower for the cathedral, but now it’s one of the most famous buildings in history!

We strongly recommend getting passes that include entrance to all of the buildings in the Piazza dei Miracoli, including the two museums: Museo delle Sinopie, and Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.

When you’ve exhausted all the things to do in the main piazza, grab lunch and then enjoy a leisurely walk around the rest of the city, along the banks of the Arno River.

Other things to do include visiting the Palazzo dei Cavalieri and the Knights Square, Palazzo Blu, and Church of Santa Maria della Spina. Stop by Tuttomondo, a Keith Haring mural, for a fun, Instagrammable shot!

How to get to Pisa from Rome:

Direct high-speed trains from Rome to Pisa are available, taking about 2.5 hours.

Discover the Square of Miracles

Get a combination entry ticket to the monuments and museums on this tour of the Square of Miracles , including a climb up the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Best 2-Day Trips From Rome

The above 13 day trips from Rome should keep you busy for a while! But it’s just a fact that there is so much more to see in Italy just beyond the day trip threshold.

With a travel time between 3–5 hours, you could squeeze these visits into a day, but if you’re traveling that far, I’d definitely recommend getting a place to sleep and fully experiencing these incredible cities over two or more days.

15. Civita di Bagnoregio

Civita di Bagnoregio, often referred to as “the dying city,” is perched on top of a hill and accessible only by a pedestrian bridge. It may be the most unique way you’ve ever entered a new city! Make sure you’ve got your walking shoes on!

This enchanting town seems suspended in time, with its ancient buildings, narrow streets, and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. After taking the train from Rome to Orvieto, you’ll complete your journey with a breathtaking bus ride as you watch Civita emerge from the horizon!

This is a great destination to pair with a visit to Orvieto. See Orvieto first, spend the night, then head to Civita the next day to explore before heading back to Rome.

How to get to Civita di Bagnoregio from Rome:

Take a train from Rome to Orvieto (about 1.5 hours), then a bus or taxi from Orvieto to Civita di Bagnoregio, which can take around an hour.

Lucca is a medieval Tuscan city that holds a special place in our hearts. Lucca was our last long-term stay while in Europe. We stayed in a gorgeous apartment where the cobblestone streets of shops and restaurants were just outside our doorstep.

One of the best things to do in Lucca is to walk (or better yet, bike or surrey) the well-preserved Renaissance walls that surround the city, now transformed into a pedestrian promenade. Listen to some Puccini while you stroll — Lucca is his birthplace!

I also recommend climbing a tower to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the sea of red rooftops that define Tuscan architecture. Try the Torre del Ore clock tower or the Guinigi Tower with its rooftop garden!

Be sure to have a meal at Madama Butterfly — try the lasagna! I’m not kidding when I say I think we ate here about five or six times during the month we were there.

How to get to Lucca from Rome:

Travel from Rome to Florence via high-speed train (about 1.5 hours), then catch a regional train to Lucca, which takes around 1.5 hours.

Lucca like a local

Explore Lucca in the most fun way with this 3-Hour Bikes & Bites Foodie Adventure!

17. Sorrento

Earlier in this list, I suggested day trips to Naples and Pompeii, both located on the west coast of Italy, south of Rome. With a little extra time, you can head slightly further south to visit the next three destinations on our list: Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, and the island of Capri.

Individually, you could visit each of these cities on a 2-day trip, but you could also opt for a longer trip to visit them all in one go and save on travel time by not taking multiple trips. It’s all up to you!

Sorrento is known for its breathtaking views over the Bay of Naples, charming old town, and limoncello production (mmm…limoncello). Its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful sunsets make it a perfect overnight stop.

How to get to Sorrento from Rome:

Take a high-speed train from Rome to Naples (Napoli Centrale), then transfer to a local train to Sorrento. The entire journey can take about 2 to 3 hours.

18. Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a 34-mile stretch of coastline famous for its cliffs, scenic beauty, colorful seaside towns, and crystal-clear water. The area is UNESCO World Heritage site and includes several charming towns, including Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.

Here you’ll definitely want to soak in the views, wander the towns, and try the delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

Stroll Positano’s steep, narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafes, and explore Ravello’s panoramic gardens and villas. The journey itself is as memorable as the destinations.

How to get to the Amalfi Coast from Rome:

The Amalfi Coast itself doesn’t have a train station, so the common route is to take a high-speed train from Rome to Naples (about 1 to 1.5 hours), then transfer to a regional train to Sorrento. From Sorrento, buses or ferries can take you to various towns along the Amalfi Coast.

The island of Capri is the definition of a luxe escape, with its jaw-dropping cliffs, shimmering blue caves, and streets lined with high-end shops.

From the ferry landing at Marina Grande, you can take the funicular up to the historic center of Capri town. You’ll find the most activity at Piazzetta, the city’s main square, where you might want to grab a bite to eat.

Don’t miss window shopping along Camerelle, the street where you’ll find a number of high-end luxury brand shops.

Feeling adventurous? You’ll definitely want to visit the Blue Grotto, a sea cave famous for its blue and emerald-colored waters and unique lighting effect created when the sun shines through. You’ll access the cave via a rowboat, but try to get your timing right. Visiting is only possible during low tide when the sea is calm.

How to get to Capri from Rome:

First, take a high-speed train from Rome to Naples (about 1 to 1.5 hours). From Naples, head to the port and take a ferry to Capri (about 40-75 minutes). Alternatively, if you’re already in Sorrento or on the Amalfi Coast, you can take a ferry from there.

One thing I love about Italy is the variety of terrain, climate, and culture you can experience across the country. Venice is truly in its own class, and although it’s a bit far for a day trip, I’d still encourage you to make the trek!

A high-speed train from Rome can get you to Venice in about 3.5 to 4 hours, making it a feasible 2-day adventure. If you leave early in the morning and return the following evening, you can enjoy more than a day among the canals and gondolas.

Start with a vaporetto (water taxi) ride along the Grand Canal and take in the sights along the way. Exit at San Marco and explore St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, and Doge Palace.

From there, you can take a leisurely 20-minute walk to the Ponte dell’Accademia (a bridge with great views of Venice and the Grand Canal) on your way to the Peggy Guggenheim collection to browse an impressive display of 20th century artwork.

End the day with a romantic gondola ride along the canals! And for a nice dinner, find Trattoria Povoledo Venezia, near the Ponte degli Scalzi. Here you can enjoy delicious Italian food with amazing views, dining right by the canal.

How to get to Venice from Rome:

Direct high-speed trains connect Rome with Venice, taking you from Rome’s Termini station to Venezia Santa Lucia in about 3.5 to 4 hours. This route offers scenic views as you approach the Venetian lagoon.

Go beyond the hot spots

Discover hidden Venice with this “Unusual Walking Tour!”

21. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, a string of five centuries-old seaside villages on the Italian Riviera, is known for its colorful houses, terraced vineyards, and breathtaking coastal views.

Each of the villages has its own personality, and you can’t go wrong choosing any one of them for your stay. Whether you go with Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, or Monterosso al Mare, be sure to visit each of the others for a unique experience!

A 2-day visit allows you to leisurely hike the scenic trails connecting the villages, savor the local cuisine, spend time at the beach, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

How to get to Cinque Terre from Rome:

To visit Cinque Terre, take a high-speed train from Rome to La Spezia (about 3 to 4 hours), which is the gateway to the Cinque Terre region. From La Spezia, regional trains frequently run along the coast, stopping at each of the five villages.

Where To Stay In Rome

If you’re planning several day trips from Rome, you might want to choose accommodations close to a train station. Luckily, Rome’s public transportation system is pretty easy to navigate, so it’s not hard to get around in the city!

The Roma Termini Station serves as the main hub for both regional and high-speed trains. There are lots of hotels to choose from in this area, and you’ll be close to shops, restaurants, and landmarks.

For a more scenic and serene stay, consider the Trastevere district. Known for its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant nightlife, Trastevere also offers easy access to Rome’s main sights and is well-connected by public transport.

Another great option is the Prati district, near the Vatican. It’s a more upscale area, offering a quieter stay while still being conveniently located.

📍Budget Option: The Beehive

Just a few steps from Termini Station, The Beehive offers a unique blend of comfort and sustainability, making it perfect for eco-conscious travelers on a budget. With its cozy, home-like atmosphere and a delightful organic café, it’s an oasis in the heart of Rome.

📍Mid-Range Option: Starhotels Michelangelo

Just a stone’s throw from St. Peter’s Basilica, Starhotels Michelangelo offers modern comfort with a touch of elegance. Its rooms are spacious and well-appointed, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring Rome’s sacred sites and historic streets.

📍Luxury Option: Hotel Hassler Roma

Located at the top of the Spanish Steps, Hotel Hassler Roma is renowned for its impeccable service and stunning city views. Each room and suite is a blend of classic design and modern comfort, offering an oasis of tranquility right in the heart of Rome’s fashion and shopping district.

The “best” day trip from Rome often depends on your interests, but Tivoli, with its stunning Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa, consistently ranks high for its breathtaking gardens, architectural marvels, and ease of access by train.

While international train travel from Rome can take you to several countries, the closest and most accessible by train are Vatican City, technically a separate country within Rome itself, and San Marino, an independent republic nestled within Italy. Longer train journeys can connect you to neighboring countries like France, Switzerland, and Austria for more extended trips.

Yes, a day trip to the Amalfi Coast from Rome is possible but ambitious. It involves taking a high-speed train to Naples (about 1 hour), followed by a combination of regional trains, buses, or ferries to reach towns like Positano or Amalfi, making for a long but rewarding day. You’ll be more relaxed and have more time for exploring if you stay in the area overnight.

Train tickets can be purchased online through the official websites of Italian train companies, at ticket machines, or at the ticket counters in train stations. For convenience and to avoid queues, consider buying tickets online in advance, especially for high-speed trains where reservations are mandatory.

Yes, Italy offers several regional and national train passes that can be cost-effective for travelers planning multiple train journeys. The Trenitalia Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are popular options, offering flexibility and discounts for families and groups.

To maximize your day, aim to catch an early morning train. This gives you more time to explore your destination and return comfortably by evening. Check train schedules in advance to plan your departure and return times.

For high-speed trains and popular routes, booking in advance is advisable to secure the best fares and ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons. Regional trains usually don’t require advance booking, but it’s still a good idea to check schedules ahead of time.

Pack light but don’t forget essentials: comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, a hat for sunny days, and a light jacket or umbrella depending on the season. Also, keep your train ticket, a valid ID, and some cash alongside credit cards.

Traveling by train in Italy is widely regarded as safe. However, like in any busy public spaces, keep an eye on your belongings, be aware of your surroundings, and watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowded stations or on busy trains.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Rome

While there is so much to see and do in Rome, these day trips will take you to awe-inspiring locations that few tourists venture to.

From the ancient ruins of Pompeii to the bustling markets of Florence and the breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast, there’s a whole world out there waiting to be explored.

And remember, the train journey itself is part of the fun. You get to enjoy views of the Italian countryside and relax while someone else does the driving!

Whether you’re looking to dive deeper into Italy’s history, eat your weight in pizza, or just soak in some stunning views, these train trips have got you covered. So, pick your favorite destination, and go explore!

Family Travel Expert

Megan Tenney traveled full-time for four years with her husband and four children. She's visited 49 of the United States, backpacked across Europe, and spent some time in Canada, Mexico, Asia, and the Caribbean. Megan is the owner and author of Family Gap Year Guide , where she shares stories and tips from her family travel adventures and teaches other families how they can take life on the road!

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France and Italy by Train

Your Guide to Train Travel in France & Italy: Paris to Rome Trains & More

The 10 Best Day Trips From Rome by Train

The Italian capital contains enough sights and attractions to make any vacation burst at the seams. But if you’re keen to see more of Italy, there are some spellbinding day trips from Rome by train.

Archeological marvels, chocolate-box towns, and architectural jewels compete for attention. It’s a veritable menu of cultural delights with something to tempt every appetite. To give a flavor, we’ve selected 10 magical destinations just a short rail journey from the Eternal City.

1. Ostia Antica

Ostia Antica, an ancient port at the mouth of the Tiber, is a remarkably well-preserved relic that rivals Pompeii for inspiring awe. Founded in 620 BC, many vestiges of imperial glory survived the fall of Rome. Among them is an impressive theater, fragmented mosaics, and revealing frescoes housed in the museum and vast archeological park .

Another reason Ostia Antica qualifies as one of the best day trips from Rome is that you can poke around antiquity without the crowds found elsewhere in the city. Surprising, considering it takes just 26 minutes on the Ferrovie Urbane trains that connect Rome (Porta San Paolo) with the coast. Rome to Ostia Antica trains (Roma-Lido line) are frequent and fares inexpensive, elevating one of Italy’s most under-appreciated landmarks to unmissable for history buffs.

Rome to Ostia Antica Details

• Any journey on Rome Metro or Ferrovie Urbane trains costs €1.50 (BIT fare valid for 100 minutes from validation on any point-to-point trip). Purchase before boarding and use the Roma-Lido line. 
• To depart from Roma Termini, use Line B of the Rome Metro to Piramide before switching to the Roma-Lido line. If you take this route, buy two BIT tickets.
• Alternatively, consider a 24-72 hours Roma region train passes , starting from €7 for 24 hours.
• Roma-Lido trains depart Porta San Paolo for Ostia Antica every 15 minutes.
• Metro B (and B1) trains from Roma Termini to Piramide (switch to Roma-Lido trains here) depart every 7-10 minutes.
• Porta San Paolo direct to Ostia Antica takes 57 minutes on Ferrovie Urbane trains.
• Traveling from Roma Termini to Piramide by Metro takes 17 minutes. The onward journey by Ferrovie Urbane (Roma-Lido) trains from Piramide to Ostia Antica takes 51 minutes.
• Online Booking: Omio

Ostia Antica Tours

Small-group tours to ostia antica from rome.

Tivoli rightly steals attention when planning Rome day trips by train. The charismatic town boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites from golden eras separated by a millennium, the Roman Empire and the Renaissance. It’s a breathtaking couplet comprising the palace and fountain-filled gardens of Villa d’Este and a sprawling villa complex built by Emperor Hadrian (Villa Adriana) brimming with Roman artifacts. Oh, and there’s also the striking hillside gardens and waterfalls of the fetching Villa Gregoriana, a photogenic cherry on top of an unforgettable day trip.

Regionale trains connect Roma Tiburtina (Metro Line B) and Tivoli, including several fast and direct trains. Slower Regionale trains depart early morning, so the journey may be longer but they will help maximize time in Tivoli. Like many of the best day trips from Rome by train, you can stroll up and buy tickets before traveling. Try to leave early, as local Cattivoli buses or taxis are necessary to reach the villas.

Rome to Tivoli Details

• Prices: Regionale trains from Roma Tiburtina to Tivoli cost €2.60 – €3 (Ordinaria fares, second-class only). Buy in the station.  
• Frequency : 1-2 trains depart hourly from Roma Tiburtina to Tivoli.
• Duration : The quickest train journey from Rome to Tivoli is 36 minutes on direct services. Indirect services trundling through commuter stations in the Lazio region take up to 1 hour and 7 minutes.

Tivoli Tours

Small-group tours to tivoli from rome.

Orvieto is a medieval hilltop town imperiously punctuating the Umbrian skyline. An atmospheric jumble of winding streets and colorful piazzas bursts with character and tourist-friendly distractions. The centerpiece is a stunning Gothic cathedral , Duomo di Orvieto. Cars are virtually non-existent, the views over rolling cypress grove fields are magnificent, and the quaint streets invite leisurely exploration. Ensure your phone is fully charged, as the camera will surely be busy.

Although one of the longer day trips by train from Rome, intrepid travelers are rewarded with a rustic landscape detached from urban sprawl. It takes under 1 ½ hours to reach Orvieto station from Roma Termini . From there, the only option is to trek to the top alongside the droves inevitably disgorging from the train. It’s a picturesque journey, and trains return until late evening, allowing plenty of time to soak up the timeless atmosphere and savor an Umbrian specialty or two.

Rome to Orvieto Details

• Daytrippers can choose Regionale trains or Intercity trains. Early morning Regionale services are recommended to get the most from a day trip. 
• Regionale fares are fixed at €9.15 and can be purchased at the station.
• Intercity fares start €9.90 (second-class) booked up to 4 months ahead with Trenitalia. First class fares — with more elbow room — start at €11.90. Second-class Intercity fares on the day of travel start at €17.50. Both fares can be booked on Omio .
• Direct trains from Roma Termini to Orvieto depart at least every 2 hours. In addition, there are 3-4 Indirect services (one change) daily.
• The earliest Intercity train departs at 10.22. Slightly slower Regionale services depart from 06:06.
• Duration : The fastest services from Rome to Orvieto are Intercity trains that take up to 1 hour and 16 minutes. Slower but more frequent Regionale trains take 1 hour and 17 to 26 minutes.

Orvieto Tours

Small-group tours to orvieto from rome, 4. frascati.

Magnificent villas abound in genteel Frascati, famed as a summer retreat for well-heeled Romans. Crisp with character like its eponymous white wine, the compact hillside town is one of the most accessible day trips by train from Rome. A 17 th -century cathedral, a Roman archeological site, and 12 glorious Tuscan villas that survived World War II headline. Hit the cobblestones, drink in panoramic views of Rome, and stop for a glass of local fizz in a convivial osteria. 

Time your departure, and you’ll have time to visit a winery and discover why Frascati was cherished by Romans as “the golden wine,” despite its less-than-stellar reputation.

At just 30 minutes on a direct, fixed-priced Regionale service , train trips from Rome don’t come much quicker and easier. Buy at the station and hop on one of the hourly services; four stops later, you’ll disembark within walking distance of the Tuscolano Archaeological Park and splendid Villa Aldobrandini .

Rome to Frascati Details

• Prices: Regionale fares from Roma Termini to Frascati are fixed at €2.10, second-class only. Buy in the station or online at Omio .
• Frequency : Trains from Rome to Frascati depart hourly. Return services continue throughout the evening.
• Duration : It takes just 30 minutes to travel from Rome to Frascati by rail.

Frascati Tours

Small-group tours to frascati from rome, 5. fregenae.

It’s not all art and history when choosing Rome day trips by train. If you want to break out the sunglasses and swimsuits, head to the seaside resorts at Fregenae. City dwellers head there to cool down, catch some rays, and enjoy leisure activities like the energetic Parco Avventura or more grown-up fun at cocktail bars built for sunset romance. It is one of the best day trips from Rome by train when you need a break from the intensity of the Italian capital. Or a break from life itself.

Trains from Roma Termini and several other stations in the city depart every 30 minutes for Maccarese-Fregene . Maccarese is a town adjacent to Fregenae (aka, Fregene). Pack your suncream and roll up to the station to buy fixed-fare tickets for one of the most laidback places to visit near Rome by train. Allow time to walk or use the Cotral bus to reach the beach, approximately 4 miles from the station.

Rome to Fregenae Details

• Prices: Regionale trains from Roma Termini to Maccarese-Fregene are fixed at €2.60. Purchase in the station or online at Omio . 
• Frequency : Rail services from Rome to Fregenae depart every 30 minutes.
• Duration : It takes just 29 minutes to travel by rail from Rome to Maccarese-Fregene.

6. Civita di Bagnoregio

The hilltop village of Civita di Bagnoregio is a jaw-dropper. Impossibly perched atop an isolated volcanic rock, the evocative landmark was settled 2,500 years ago by Etruscans. The Porta Santa Maria gate still stands as evidence of Etruscan ingenuity. While the 7th century San Donato Church remains a stirring sight rising above the rooftops.

Once emblematic of “dying villages” in Italy, 12 people manage to live there today, reaching the outside world via a single suspended path. However, those numbers swell with day trippers, many there via train trips from Rome.

Like several evocative day trips by train from Rome, a bus trip completes the journey. Head to Orvieto (a destination already on our list) on fast regional trains before hopping on a Cotral bus to Bagnoregio (try not to miss the late return journey at 6.20 pm). Then pay the toll and savor the dizzying walk into the village.

Rome to Civita di Bagnoregio Details

• Fares from Roma Termini to Orvieto are fixed at €9.15. A couple of Intercity services in the evening can be cheaper when booked ahead but leave too late for Rome day trips by train.
• Bus fares are €2 for a single journey. The toll is currently €5.
• Frequency : Trains from Roma Termini to Orvieto depart every 1-2 hours. Onward buses are less frequent, departing 9-10 times daily, with no Sunday service .
• Duration : Budget 1 hour 17 minutes for the train journey. Budget up to 1 hour for the bus ride, plus time for switching transport.
• Online Booking: Book both train and bus legs in one app using Omio .

Civita di Bagnoregio Tours

Small-group tours to civita di bagnoregio from rome.

Assisi, an imposing hill town in Umbria with roots predating ancient Rome, is a magnet for visitors and unquestionably one of the best day trips from Rome by train. Birthplace of patron saint Francis, the town is layered with character and architecture through the ages. The showpiece is the fabled basilica named after its famous son , dominating the skyline. The moderately-sized town greedily boasts two castles and a Roman amphitheater (of sorts). In short, the train journey from the Italian capital is merely the prelude to a dazzling journey through time.

Getting there by rail is a cinch. But plan ahead to maximize your time. Take direct Regional Veloce trains rather than slower one-change services, and you’ll arrive in Assisi in a little over 2 hours. Regional fares are fixed, so no need to reserve. The trains are clean and modern but without many facilities; bring your own snacks to enjoy the delightful cruise through the Umbrian countryside.

Rome to Assisi Details

• €12.70 is the fixed fare from Roma Termini direct to Assisi. No need to reserve, but check Trenitalia for departure times.
• A couple of Intercity trains also ply the route. Booked at least 2 weeks ahead for a ticket starting at €7.90. Intercity fares cost from €24 for last-minute purchases. 
• Frequency : There are 5-6 daily direct rail services from Rome to Assisi. A similar number of slower services requiring one-stop are available.
• Duration : The fastest trains from Rome to Assisi get the job done in 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Assisi Tours

Small-group tours to assisi from rome.

Pompeii needs no introduction. The Roman city is part historical relic, part lesson in the power of nature. It’s an absorbing destination , forever paused in horror and history. Is Pompeii accessible in one day? “Naturalmente,” otherwise it wouldn’t be on our list of Rome day trips by train.

The Rome to Pompeii train journey is a two-hander. First to Naples, switching from Napoli Centrale to Napoli Piazza Garibaldi (9-minute walk) for a local Metropolitano service. The local service is a fixed fare (€3) and takes 37 minutes to deposit travelers almost at the gates of Pompeii.

A medley of rail tickets is available to reach Naples. Regional trains are cheaper, especially if buying late, but take twice as long as high-speed services. Superior Frecce trains, including the classy Frecciarossa 1000, take around 1 hr 15 m. Do yourself a favor and book one of these services. Fares are low when booked early, but the comfort levels are a cut above. More importantly, you get more time to explore the ruins of Pompeii.

Rome to Pompeii Details:

• Slow regional services cost a total of €14.80 from Rome to Pompeii.
• Tickets for high-speed Frecce trains from Roma Termini to Pompei via Naples start at €24.90 for second-class Frecce  Standard. Frequent Special Frecce fares can be as low as €14.90. Book up to 4 months before travel with Trenitalia for the lowest fares, with prices rising as seats disappear. Various upgrades are offered on Frecce trains, often for just a few Euros.
• If you plan to stop in Naples, fares from Naples to Pompeii are fixed at €3. Book your trains between Rome and Naples and buy that ticket at the station for flexibility.
• Frequency : 1-2 high-speed trains travel between Rome and Pompeii. Napoli Piazza Garibaldi to Pompeii trains departs twice hourly.
• Duration : Overall, you can travel from Rome to Pompeii by train in 2 hours and 10 mins, including changes in Naples.

Click here to read our full article on traveling from Rome to Pompeii…in just a day!

Pompeii Tours

Small-group tours to pompeii from rome, 9. florence.

The Renaissance jewel of Tuscany is one of the most captivating places to visit near Rome by train. The entire historic center is UNESCO protected and a sensory motherload of cultural wonders, from the fairytale Ponte Vecchio to the artistic pearls at the Uffizi Gallery . Mark Twain once wrote that the “city of dreams, is a sight to stir the coldest nature”. Once again, he nailed it.

As you would hope, train links between Roma Termini and Florence (Firenze S.M. Novella is the station you want) are excellent. Competing high-speed services from Trenitalia (Frecce class) and Italo keeps prices low. The direct journey (often only stopping at Roma Tiburtina) takes under 100 minutes, and comfort is high as you pass through the pastel landscapes of Tuscany. You couldn’t ask for more from one of the best day trips from Rome by train.

Rome to Florence Details

• Slick Italo high-speed trains are the best value. Book up to 4 months ahead and get fares from €21.90 for a Low-Cost Smart (i.e. economy) seat. Look out for eXtra MAGIC discount fares as low as €10.90. Upgrade options abound.
• Trenitalia Frecce trains start from €27.90 for standard Super Economy booked up to 4 months before travel. Discount fares (Special Frecce) are frequently available from €14.90. Plenty of upgrade options.
• Book online with Omio for either Italo or Trenitalia services. There isn’t much to separate the services, as both they almost match each other for speed and comfort, which are top-tier by global standards.
• Frequency : 4-6 services depart hourly from Roma Termini to Firenze S.M. Novella across Italo and Trenitalia high-speed services.
• Duration : Direct high-speed trains from Rome to Florence take under 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Florence Tours

Small-group tours to florence from rome, 10. castel gandolfo.

You barely have to leave Rome to reach picturesque Castel Gandolfo in the Alban hills above Lake Albano. Aside from a cooling green haven made for nature and lakeside activities, the town is known for its papal palace that shaped the character of the quaint strung along the hilltops. Now a museum , the Pope’s summer hangout is a compelling reason to escape the Roman cauldron and savor a scenic slice of Lazio good enough for the supreme pontiff. 

A big reason why Castelo Gandolfo works when looking at day trips by train from Rome is the sheer convenience. A regional service departs approximately every hour, takes under 45 minutes, and costs less than a cappuccino. It is an easy day trip. And a charming escape, a world away from Rome.

Rome to Castel Gandolfo Details

• Prices: €2.10 for a fixed-price Regional train from Roma Termini to Castelo Gandolfo. Buy at station before boarding. Check Trenitalia
• Frequency : Approximately 1 train departs hourly from Rome to Castelo Gandolfo. Check Omio for departure times.
• Duration : Rome to Castelo Gandolfo by train takes 44 minutes.

Castelo Gandolfo Tours

Small-group tours to castelo gandolfo from rome, so, what are the best day trips from rome by train.

It’s really up to you, and how you’re feeling. But, geez, if push comes to shove, here’s where we stand: We feel strongly that no trip to Rome is complete without seeing Ostia Antica. Additionally, if your Italian adventure doesn’t include a foray into Tuscany or Umbria, also “must-sees” in our book, then we humbly submit that Civita or Orvieto should top your “day trips from Rome” list.

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12 Realistic Day Trips from Rome by Train

Posted on Last updated: March 18, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » Italy » 12 Realistic Day Trips from Rome by Train

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Planning a trip to Rome, Italy, and are thinking about side trips? Keep scrolling for my list of the best day trips from Rome by train worth adding to your Italy itinerary!

This list of day trips from rome by train was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a trip to Italy’s capital and want to add some adventure to your vacation by taking day trips from Rome by train?

Too many visitors stay glued to the historic center and don’t do any day trips outside of Rome! Yes, there are enough things to do in Rome to last a lifetime and then some (it is the eternal city, after all) but the rest of Italy has so much to offer too.

UNESCO sites, ancient ruins, charming hilltop towns, and alternative places in Italy await outside of Rome’s borders.

This guide includes all the best day trips from Rome by train so no rental car is required. Yes, you don’t have to worry about navigating through lethal Roman traffic!

Discover all the inspiration you need to take awesome Rome day trips as well as essential logistical info to get to grips with the Italian rail network too.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Rome blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Rome with kids.

Popular Rome Tours/Activities

• Golf Cart Tour (this is a great way to sightsee without having to walk everywhere)
• Skip-The-Line Colosseum for Families Tour (definitely the way to go)
• Rome Gladiator School (seriously, the best Rome activity for my kids)
• Family Vatican Highlight Scavenger Hunt (great way to keep kids engaged)
• Rome Tour for Kids with Gelato & Pizza (tasty tour for families)
• Flytographer photo shoot (they are easy to book and really affordable)

Kid-Friendly Rome Hotels

• Parlamento Boutique Hotel (easy walk to the Trevi Fountain and has free WiFi and A/C)
• Il Campo Marzio (easy walk to Trevi Fountain and Pantheon and has free WiFi and A/C)
• Charme Spagna Boutique Hotel (they have a family suite and have free WiFi and A/C)
• Hotel Scalinata di Spagna (offers free breakfast, A/C, and WiFi)
• Hotel Manfredi Suite in Rome (great location with lots of family rooms, free WiFi and A/C)

Tivoli Day Trips from Rome

Home to Hadrian’s Villa and several Roman aqueducts, visiting Tivoli is like visiting Rome with all the modern buildings stripped away. It’s one of the best day trips near Rome because you’re still close enough to see the city.

In fact, you’ll be able to appreciate the scale and majesty of Rome from Tivoli’s vantage point.

In Tivoli, you should also visit the Villa d’Este and the Aniene waterfall. For such a small place, there are lots to see and do here.

How To Get From Rome to Tivoli by Train

This day trip from Rome takes less than an hour. From Roma Termini station, take a direct Trenitalia RV train to Tivoli station. RV (Regionale Veloce) services are semi-fast regional trains so they’re affordable, you don’t have to book in advance, and they make fewer stops. 

This journey can be between 35 to 55 minutes depending if the service stops at fewer stations on the route. Around 30 trains follow this route every day and ticket prices start from €2.60. Bargain!

Day Trips from Rome to Pompeii

Whilst Pompei with one ‘i’ is the modern city near Naples, Pompeii is the UNESCO World Heritage Site on the outskirts. This is the city that was trapped under thick volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. 

If you’re interested in archeological sites, taking a Rome to Pompeii day trip by train is a bucket list-worthy trip for you. There’s enough to see here that you could literally spend all day exploring the site and the museum .

How To Get from Rome to Pompeii by Train

From Roma Termini , hop on a direct high-speed Italo Treno service to Napoli Centrale station. This journey takes around one hour and 15 minutes and trains traveling between Rome and Naples leave two to three times an hour.

Change trains at Napoli Centrale and get a regional MET service with Trenitalia to Pompei station. This journey is only 25 minutes and over 70 trains travel this route every day. It’s a 20-minute walk from Pompei to the ancient Roman town of Pompeii.

Tickets for this entire journey start from €14. Since it includes a high-speed train, you should book in advance to avoid disappointment and more expensive last-minute prices.

Florence Day Trips from Rome

You really should spend a few days in Florence to see all the highlights. But if you’ve only got time for a quick Tuscany day trip from Rome, one day is better than nothing!

Visit Michelangelo’s David, check out the Uffizi gallery , and walk over the postcard-perfect Ponte Vecchio bridge.

How To Get from Rome to Florence by Train

From Roma Tiburtina station, hop on a high-speed, direct Trenitalia FR train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella station. FR (Frecciarossa) is a high-speed service so you should book your tickets in advance to guarantee seats on this train.

Trains travel this route every 20 minutes and the journey is less than 90 minutes. Tickets are usually around €20.

Day Trips from Rome to Frascati

Looking for an ‘off the beaten path’ day trip from Rome by train? Frascati is nestled in the Alban Hills near the ancient city of Tusculum.

Here, you’ll find the ruins of ancient Roman amphitheaters and impressive palaces like the Villa Aldobrandini.

How To Get from Rome to Frascati by Train

From Roma Termini , get a direct REG (regional) Trenitalia train to Frascati station. This journey is only around 30 minutes and there are roughly 16 services per day. 

Tickets for this route can cost as little as €2.10. It’s perfect if you’re looking for budget day trips from Rome, Italy!

Venice Day Trips from Rome

If you have the stamina for an extremely long day, a Rome to Venice day trip by train is doable.

You’ll have just enough time to stroll around St Mark’s Square, visit the basilica, hop in a gondola, and sail into the Grand Canal before hopping on a train back to Rome. Get all my top Venice travel tips before you go!

How To Get from Rome to Venice by Train

From Roma Tiburtina , choose a high-speed, direct Trenitalia FR train to Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia . Despite the speed, this journey still takes just over four hours. This is why Venice is a great idea if you’re looking for longer, weekend trips from Rome!

Nevertheless, there are roughly 49 services a day so book the first and last trains of the day in advance to maximize your time. Average ticket prices for this journey are around €40.

Santa Marinella Day Trips from Rome

Santa Marinella is perfect if you want to enjoy Rome day trips by train to the beach. There are shallow, rocky coves that are perfect for younger kids to splash around and lots of soft, yellow sand to lounge on.

How To Get from Rome to Santa Marinella by Train

From Roma Aurelia station, hop on a direct REG Trenitalia service to Santa Marinella station. The length of this journey is around 40 minutes and they leave every 30 minutes. Tickets start from €4.60.

Roma Aurelia station is a little outside of Rome’s city center. You might need to take a connecting train from Roma Termini which is much more central.

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Day trips from rome to orvieto.

Orvieto is a city in Umbria perched on a rock cliff and easy to reach via train rides from Rome. It’s famous for the 13th-century Duomo di Orvieto cathedral, its Etruscan underground cave network, and many other archaeological sites.

How To Get from Rome to Orvieto by Train

From Roma Tiburtina station, take a direct RV Trenitalia to Orvieto station. This journey is just over an hour and there are around 20 services a day. Tickets start from €7.90.

Orvieto station is a 40-minute walk outside of the historic center so you might need to hop in a taxi if that’s a little too far.

Assisi Day Trips from Rome

The Birthplace of the famous Saint Francis of Assisi, this is another hill town in Umbria and one of the top excursions from Rome if you’re interested in Italy’s religious history.

The Basilica of Saint Francis houses a stone sarcophagus with the saint’s remains and there are beautiful frescoes painted on the walls too.

How To Get from Rome to Assisi by Train

From Roma Tiburtina station, get a direct IC Trenitalia service to Assisi . IC (InterCity) trains are high-speed trains that you must book in advance. This train journey takes just under two hours and roughly 18 services every day. Tickets start from €9.90.

Day Trips from Rome to Pisa

Pisa is a great alternative to Florence if you want to enjoy Tuscany day trips in Italy from Rome. Plus, it’s much easier to see the highlights of Pisa in one day .

Take funny photos with the famous Leaning Tower and explore the city’s lesser-known attractions too. Check out my tips for visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa with kids !

How To Get from Rome to Pisa by Train

From Roma Tiburtina , hop on a direct FA Trenitalia service to Pisa . FA (Frecciargento) services are high-speed trains and you should book them in advance to avoid disappointment. To be honest, there is not much difference between Trenitalia’s FR, FA, and IC trains aside from their names.

The length of this train journey is just over two hours and there are around 38 services a day. Ticket prices for this service are usually around €25.

Naples Day Trips from Rome

Famous for being loud and unpretentious, Naples is best explored in small doses which makes it a perfect one-day trip from Rome.

Your only goal when you visit Naples is to consume all the pizza you can and avoid getting knocked down by mopeds!

How To Get from Rome to Naples by Train

From Roma Termini , get a direct high-speed Italo Treno service to Napoli Centrale station. This journey takes around one hour and 15 minutes and trains traveling between Rome and Naples leave two to three times an hour. 

Book your ticket in advance as you need seat reservations to travel on these trains. Ticket prices are usually around €12 for this journey.

Day Trips from Rome to Cerveteri

One of the closer day trips outside Rome, Cerveteri is known for its ancient, pre-Roman necropolis. The results of many archaeological investigations in this area are now on display in the National Museum of Cerveteri.

How To Get from Rome to Cerveteri by Train

From Roma Aurelia , take a direct REG Trenitalia train to Ladispoli – Cerveteri station. This train only takes around 25 minutes and they run every 40 minutes. Tickets start at around €3 so it’s perfect if you are looking for quick and easy train trips from Rome.

Terni Day Trips from Rome

Near the Lazio border, one of the best day trips from Rome you could take is to the Umbrian city of Terni on the banks of the Nera River.

Though it’s nowhere near as big as Rome, it’s still a generously-sized city with lots of museums, churches, and piazzas to explore.

How To Get from Rome to Terni by Train

There are both REG and IC services by Trenitalia to Terni. As you’d expect, regional services are cheaper and you don’t need to book ahead but they stop at more stations and take longer. Intercity services are quicker, often a little more expensive, and you do need to book ahead.

Choose whichever service is best for you!

Either way, both direct services depart from Roma Tiburtina station and head to Terni station. This journey is less than an hour and there are around 24 services a day. The average ticket price for this train journey is around €10. 

Rome Day Trips FAQs

Train tickets in Rome, Italy can be purchased in several ways. You can buy them online through the Trenitalia or Italo websites, at the train station from the ticket counter or from automated ticket machines, or through travel agencies. The ticket machines and counters usually have instructions in English and accept credit/debit cards as well as cash. If buying at the station, it’s recommended to arrive early to allow enough time for purchasing tickets, especially during peak travel times.

High-speed trains in Italy, such as Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca, are faster and more expensive than regional trains, but offer more amenities such as comfortable seating, air conditioning, and sometimes a dining car. Regional trains are slower, make more stops, and are generally cheaper than high-speed trains. They often have basic seating with no reservations required, making them a more flexible option for shorter journeys.

Yes, you can use a credit card to buy train tickets in Rome, Italy. Most train stations have automated ticket machines where you can purchase your tickets using a credit or debit card. You can also buy tickets online through the Trenitalia or Italo websites using a credit card. It is recommended to have a chip and pin credit card for use in Italy as some machines may not accept magnetic stripe cards.

Train schedules in Rome, Italy are generally reliable, but delays can occur. It is always a good idea to check the schedule ahead of time and plan for some flexibility in case of unexpected delays or changes. Additionally, it is recommended to allow plenty of time for connections, especially if traveling during peak travel times or holidays.

In Rome, train platforms are usually listed on the departure boards found in the main hall of the train station. You can also check the information screens for any updates or changes to the platform number. The platform number is typically assigned a few minutes before departure, so it’s important to keep an eye on the boards and screens for any last-minute changes. If you’re unsure or need assistance, you can always ask one of the station attendants or staff members for help.

I suggest arriving at the train station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time for regional and intercity trains, and at least 1 hour before for high-speed trains. This allows enough time for security checks and to locate your train platform. However, it’s always best to check with the specific train company or station for their recommended arrival time.

Day Trips from Rome by Train Wrap-Up

With so many amazing possible day trips by train from Rome, it would be a shame to not explore another beautiful part of Italy by staying in one place. You can do it without checking in and out of accommodations and lugging your bags from city to city, too.

Take a chance on one of these suggestions for a fun day trip out of Rome and have an even more unforgettable time living la dolce vita !

Looking for more Italy travel resources ? Find out the most Instagrammable spots in Rome , my top Rome travel tips , how to spend 3 days in Rome with kids , things to do in Rome with kids , how to book a Rome photo shoot , kid-friendly Rome hotels , Venice travel tips , day trips from Florence , what Italy is known for , hidden gems in Venice , Florence travel tips , how to spend 10 days in Italy with kids , tips for visiting Italy with kids , best Rome tours for kids , and secret spots in Rome Italy !

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The 5 best day trips from Rome

Don't miss a chance to see more of Italy - more beautiful cities are just a train ride away

Sure, Rome is one of the best cities on the planet. Sure, the food is incredible, the endless cacio e pepe will have you taking 3pm naps and the Aperol spritz just tastes better out there. We don’t know why. 

But if you feel like extending your trip (and trust us, you will), you’ll find another big perk to Rome, and that’s how near it is to a number of other great Italian cities and towns. The best part? You can reach each of these spots in around an hour on public transport. So yes, you’ll make it back for another Roman cacio e pepe that evening. Here are the best day trips from Rome. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best restaurants in Rome 📍 The best things to do in Rome 🏛️ Unmissable attractions in Rome 🛍️ Where to go shopping in Rome 🇮🇹 The best places to visit in Italy

Livia Hengel is a writer based in Rome. A t Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

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Day trips from Rome

1.  Naples

Though most people pass through this seaside metropolis on their way to Pompeii, the city of Naples has cleaned up its image in recent years and is worth a visit in its own right. Replete with splendid architectural gems like the Cappella Sansevero and Castel dell-Ovo, vibrant street life and some of Italy’s most celebrated cuisine, Naples satisfies both body and soul.

Start by wandering through Spaccanapoli and the winding streets of the Decumani before enjoying a Margherita at one of the many pizzerias along Via dei Tribunali. Then make your way over to the central Piazza del Plebiscito and the waterfront to take in views of Mount Vesuvius from across the Bay of Naples.

Da Nennella is a boisterous trattoria located in the historic Quartieri Spagnoli that serves up traditional fare in a great atmosphere. You should also try the traditional Neapolitan sfogliatella at Attanasio near the train station and taste Neapolitan pastries like Baba al Rum and Sfogliatella at Pasticceria Poppella , and fried pizza at Antica Pizza Fritta da Zia Esterina Sorbillo (you know it’s gonna be good when the name is this long). 

DRINK: 

Coffee in Naples is regarded as the best in all of Italy; try it at the historic  Caffè Gambrinus . A great wine bar-restaurant in the posh Chiaia district is L'Ebbrezza di Noe , or opt for a mixed drink at the outdoor cocktail bar  Barril .

Visit the tiled cloister of Chiostro Santa Chiara and dedicate a few hours to the Archaeological Museum of Naples , which houses ancient artefacts and mosaics recovered at Pompeii. On hot summer days, seek shelter underground with a guided visit to the Catacombs of San Gennaro and discover a unique side to this fascinating city. 

Book a room at the  Palazzo Caracciolo  near the Naples Central Station with its impressive 15th-century inner courtyard.

Don’t miss... 

Naples has a long tradition of making elaborate nativity scenes and figurines, which you can discover along Via San Gregorio Armeno in the historic centre.

Get there... A train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale for one hour 18 minutes. 

Check out more of the best things to do in Naples . 

2.  Ostia Antica

The Archeological Park of Ostia Antica is a wonderful site for a day trip from Rome and is on par with Pompeii for artistic and cultural value. L ocated at the mouth of the Tiber River, Ostia Antica was the harbour city of ancient Rome and dates to the fourth century BC.

With an ancient theatre, public bath structures, a Christian Basilica, a Jewish synagogue and dozens of temples dedicated to the Persian god Mithra, Ostia Antica provides a gorgeous glimpse into the lives of the ancient ruins and will fascinate historians and anyone interested in Ancient Rome. 

Before you venture inside the ruins, fuel up on classic Roman cuisine like carbonara and meatballs at Sora Margherita , located around the corner from the entrance to Ostia Antica. 

Stop for coffee at Bar Centro da Tonino e Maria , a casual bar with plenty of seating outside to relax.

With numerous suggested itineraries for exploring the extensive park, you won’t be able to see everything in one day. But don’t miss the ancient Baths of Neptune , featuring an elaborate mosaic of the sea god riding a chariot, and the Roman Teatro, a horseshoe-shaped theatre.

Ostia Antica is a better day trip than an overnight visit from Rome, but to make a lengthier stay, book in at the  Smy Aran Blu Roma Mare Hotel  at nearby Ostia Beach and soak in some sunshine on the beach the next day.

Don’t miss...

The chance to catch a show at the Roman Teatro during the summer: from electronic music to theatrical performances, the ancient stage comes alive for spectators 2,000 years after it was first built, a truly unique experience.

Get there... A 32-minute train from Roma Termini to  Fiumicino Aeroporto, followed by a 19 minute bus to Romagnoli/Calza.

3.  Orvieto

Orvieto, a hilltop jewel that lies north of Rome in the Umbria region, is replete with small-town charm and makes for a perfect change of scenery from the bustle of the Eternal City. Orvieto boasts numerous artistic and cultural sights, in addition to delightful cafes and restaurants, for a relaxing day trip or weekend away in the countryside.

Begin your tour marvelling at the Duomo di Orvieto with its stunning façade, undoubtedly one of the loveliest in all of Italy, and peek at the frescoes inside the San Brizio Chapel, which were said to have inspired Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Shop for handmade olive-wood souvenirs at Orvieto's quaint shops before stopping for a traditional lunch of fresh pasta and cured meats. At sunset, climb up the Torre del Moro bell tower for a wonderful 360-degree view of the city and the painterly landscape in the distance.

Enjoy a rustic lunch at L'Oste del Re , a cosy restaurant serving local fare like Chianina beef and wild boar.

Have a glass of Orvieto DOC white wine at Enoteca al Duomo  in the shadows of the 14th-century basilica. 

Orvieto is a delightful town to wander around window-shopping, popping into churches and tasting the local delicacies. You can also take a walk around the Anello della Rupe, a ring path that winds around the town of Orvieto, to admire it from below. 

Stay at the  Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini , a hotel that belonged to the Papal family of the same name, with comfortable rooms and historic touches.

Venture down St. Patrick's Well, a double-helix structure that dates to the 16th century.

Get there... A train from Roma Termini to Orvieto for one hour 15 minutes. 

4.  Tivoli

The elegant gardens and villas of Tivoli are a wonderful escape from Rome and will delight art history buffs and nature lovers. Tivoli can be reached by train in under an hour from central Rome and has two noteworthy villas that are UNESCO World Heritage sites; Villa d'Este , with its mesmerising fountains and terraced Renaissance gardens and Villa Adriana , is a large Roman archaeological complex constructed by Emperor Hadrian.

The two villas are very different in nature but can be easily seen on the same day. Villa d’Este is a more modern villa and boasts numerous fountains and waterfalls that will impress visitors for their beauty and engineering, while Villa Adriana is an ancient site that will require more imagination to piece together; it is pretty much ruined.

Located a short walk from both villas, L’Angolino di Mirko is a wonderful restaurant with flavourful dishes and a great atmosphere – perfect for lunch or dinner. If staying overnight, book a table at the elegant Ristorante Sibilla , which dates to 1720, for a little history with your meal. 

Sit down for a glass of wine at Enoteca Gadì , an atmospheric wine bar lined with bottles, or stop by Anselmo Pub for a pint. 

In addition to Villa d'Este and Villa Adriana, pay a visit to the romantic gardens of Villa Gregoriana , which are overlooked but remain a beautiful oasis in the city.

A short walk from the Tivoli train station and directly beside the two villas,  Bed and Breakfast Villa d'Este  is a charming place to stay in the centre of town.

Don't miss...  

Admire the splendid Teatro Marittimo, an island within Villa Adriana that has become a symbol of the ancient archaeological site.

Get there... A 50-minute bus from Rome Tiburtina to Tivoli Piazza Garibaldi. 

5.  Florence

You can’t miss a visit to Florence while in Italy , and this incredible city is only an hour and a half train ride from Rome. The capital of the Renaissance is filled to the brim with art and history: it is an outdoor museum that is best explored on foot, admiring its incredible architecture like the Loggia dei Lanzi and Florence Cathedral.

Walk across the Ponte Vecchio, pop into the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David and wander over to the Oltrarno neighbourhood across the Arno River to experience a quieter, more local side of this bustling city. Piazzale Michelangelo has one of the best views of Florence at sunset and makes for a perfect end to a day full of beautiful sights.

Try gourmet street food at Procacci , a historic delicatessen that serves speciality products like freshly-made panini with truffles. For rustic Tuscan fare, grab a seat at the tiny Osteria al Tranvai and pick off the daily specials or head to Osteria dell'Enoteca for a more upscale dining experience that strikes a perfect balance between new and old. 

Stop for coffee at La Ménagére , a design-forward restaurant and café that doubles as a floral boutique and furniture shop. For craft cocktails, Manifattura makes excellent mixed drinks with Italian spirits, and Le Volpi e L'Uva is a cosy wine bar for a glass of Chianti.

Climb Giotto’s Bell Tower  for an incredible view of Brunelleschi's Dome (be warned, there are 414 steps to the top), take a stroll through the lush Boboli gardens and pay a visit to the Scuola del Cuoio to see a historic leather factory and buy quality handcrafted leather products. 

With a panoramic loggia that gives a view of the city skyline,  Hotel Palazzo Guadagni  is a hotel that packs excellent value in the heart of Florence. Another great bet is the boutique hotel  Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni 1 , with its little terrace overlooking the Arno River.

Spend some time gazing up at the incredible mosaics inside the Florence Baptistery, with its impressive octagonal dome.

Get there... A train from Roma Termini to Firenze S.M.N. for one hour 46 minutes. 

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The 11 best day trips out of Rome from ancient sites to Renaissance wonders

Dec 13, 2023 • 10 min read

From nearby ancient sites in the Lazio region to taking the fast train to amazing cities farther afield, here are some of the best day trips from Rome © Imgorthand / Getty Images

With so much to see in Rome , you’d be forgiven for never making it outside the city limits, but the wealth of attractions doesn’t end with the Colosseum or the Vatican. If you choose to explore the region of Lazio , of which Rome is the capital, you’ll be richly rewarded.

Between sprawling historic sites, outdoor attractions for all seasons and not-so-secret food and wine destinations, the area surrounding Rome might be just as fascinating as the city itself. Farther afield, Florence , Naples and Pompeii are all close enough to plan a day trip from Rome: they don’t call it the center of the world for nothing. 

Here are the very best places near Rome to visit on a day trip – and how to get there.

1. Explore the ancient ruins at Ostia Antica

Travel time: 30 mins

One of the easiest outings from Rome is a day trip to the Scavi Archeologici di Ostia Antica , the remarkably well-preserved ruins of ancient Rome’s seaport. Don’t miss the Terme di Nettuno, a 2nd-century baths complex with striking floor mosaics and a steeply stacked amphitheater in the heart of the ruins (used until the 4th century CE). You can also see the Thermopolium, an ancient cafe where you can make out traces of a menu frescoed on the wall. If the daily specials of a few millennia past don’t strike your fancy, Ristorante Monumento serves filling pastas and local seafood near the site’s main entrance.

How to get to Ostia Antica from Rome: Take the Ostia Lido train from Stazione San Paolo in Rome (next to Piramide metro station) and get off at Ostia Antica.

2. Visit an Etruscan City of the Dead in Cerveteri 

Travel time: 55 mins

The pre-Roman Etruscans left an indelible mark on the civilizations that followed, but much of their culture remains shrouded in mystery. However, one of the best-preserved Etruscan ruins is just outside of Rome at the Necropoli di Banditaccia in Cerveteri . A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, this haunting necropolis located just outside the modern town is a veritable city of the dead with streets, squares and terraces of circular grass-topped tombs known as tumuli .

Once you’ve explored these, complete your Etruscan education at the Museo Nazionale Cerite back in the historic center. Nearby, Da Bibbo is a cut above your average osteria .

How to get to Cerveteri from Rome: Regular Cotral buses serve Cerveteri from Cornelia metro station. By car, the town is 28 miles (45km) north of Rome, off the A12 autostrada . The necropolis is a mile from the city center.

3. Make it a day at Pompeii 

Travel time:  2.5 hours

If you’re a history lover, head south to the Pompeii Archaeological Park at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, just south of Naples. Although you could spend a lifetime studying the remains of the city frozen in time, you can also see quite a bit of it in a day. Visit the Lupanare, the only remaining ancient Roman brothel, and the Stabian baths for a window into daily life in Pompeii. There are also beautifully preserved private residences like the Villa dei Misteri, whose painted walls depict Dionysian rituals. Speaking of which, archaeologists have just discovered a second fresco in Pompeii featuring mensa  flatbread, a precursor to pizza. Pompeii residents clearly took their snacks seriously!

How to get to Pompeii from Rome: There are frequent high-speed trains that leave Termini station for Naples. From there, take the Circumvesuviana train to the stop at Pompeii. Rumor has it that the high-speed train will link up directly to Pompeii in 2024, which would significantly reduce the journey, so if you’re planning for next year keep an eye out for updates.

4. Visit two World Heritage sites in one day at Tivoli

Travel time:  50 mins

For a tiny town, Tivoli has a lot to offer visitors looking for something a little different. Located a little over 15 miles east of Rome, it is an easy trip from the center to  Villa d’Este , a Renaissance residence high up in the hills. Once you’ve admired the florid Mannerist frescoes and extravagant garden fountains, treat yourself to something special at Ristorante Sibilla .  Next take a post-lunch walk down to Villa Adriana , the country estate that once belonged to Roman Emperor Hadrian. The spectacular grounds are filled with towering ruins that languish beneath gnarled olive trees and enormous umbrella pines. 

How to get to Tivoli from Rome: Tivoli is accessible by regular Cotral bus from Ponte Mammolo metro station and takes about 50 minutes. Another option is a train from Stazione Termini to Tivoli, which departs every 15 minutes. To get to Villa Adriana from Tivoli’s historic center, take local CAT bus number 4 or 4X from Largo Garibaldi.

5. Soak in thermal baths and meet monsters in Tuscia 

Travel time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Head due north of Rome to explore some of the best kept secrets in Italy, which most people miss as they duck in and out of the capital. Start your day exploring the Parco dei Mostri in Bomarzo, a 16th century sculpture garden populated by evocative structures that the first owner of the property commissioned to cope with the grief of losing his wife.   

Known as Tuscia, the northern Lazio area that borders Umbria and Tuscany is a great place to soak in thermal waters that flow naturally from the volcanic soil underneath. The Terme dei Papi was used as a private bath for the popes who briefly resided in Viterbo in the Middle Ages, and it's now a popular year-round site for health lovers. Once you’ve had a soak, take a stroll through the medieval San Pellegrino quarter of Viterbo and stop for a cocktail at the Magnamagna in Piazza della Morte. 

How to get to Tuscia from Rome: Viterbo is connected to Rome via train at Termini or Ostiense stations, and to access the Parco dei Mostri, get off at the Attigliano-Bomarzo station on the same line. If you’re driving, the A1 motorway is well connected to Viterbo and Bomarzo, or take the more scenic Cassia for a quieter ride. 

6. Take a hike in Monti Simbruini 

Travel time: 1 hour

If the seven hills of Rome don’t provide you with the adrenaline rush you’re looking for, head east to one of Italy’s finest national parks at Monti Simbruini . Close to Rome and accessible by public transport or car, Monti Simbruini has hundreds of kilometers of bike trails, walking itineraries and historical landmarks. Though it covers almost 30,000 hectares, the park is easy to navigate and is studded with small towns you can use as reference points or stops along the way. Admire rare species of flora and fauna and stop for a picnic in front of geological wonders like the Karst formations in Piano di Camposecco or Mola Vecchia. 

How to get to Monti Simbruini from Rome: The trip to Subiaco, one of the larger towns in the park, takes about an hour by car from the center of Rome and from there, visitors can explore the park at their leisure. All the towns of the park are connected to Rome via local Cotral buses. Consult the map on the Park’s website to plan your trip. 

7. Check out the Boho Borgo of Calcata

There is no shortage of beautiful, crumbling hill towns in Italy; there are, however, very few that can claim to have been saved by hippies. Located just outside of greater Rome, the historic center of Calcata was condemned by the local government in the 1930s for fear it would collapse. This prompted a mass exodus of residents and left the center abandoned until artists began to squat in the town in the 1960s. Over time the squatters purchased the homes, the government rescinded the order and residents began restoring the ancient buildings. Now it's a tiny but vibrant community with cafes, art galleries and enough stories to fill up a day. Soak it all up at the Latteria del Gatto Nero , a restaurant and cafe that’s been in operation since the early days of the hippie resettlement.  

How to get to Calcata from Rome: Calcata is an easy drive from Rome along the Cassia/SS2bis motorway and takes about an hour. 

8. See the Duomo and wander the medieval lanes of Orvieto

Travel time: 1.25 hours

Midway between Rome and Florence, the cliff-top town of Orvieto is a classic day trip for all the right reasons. Its handsome medieval lanes are a joy to explore and there are fabulous restaurants, shopping and panoramic views just about anywhere. What makes Oriveto such a singular destination, however, is its awe-inspiring cathedral, one of Italy's great Gothic churches. Spectacular inside and out, the zebra-striped Duomo features a mesmerizing facade and an astonishing fresco cycle by Luca Signorelli depicting the Giudizio Universale. Once you’ve visited the Duomo, take in all the views from atop the Torre del Moro. But that’s not all this city has to offer. Explore the Etruscan caves on the Orvieto Underground tour and marvel at the city they built practically by hand underneath the tuff stone. Book ahead at the tiny but mighty I Sette Consoli for one of their precious tables, and the finely edited menu of local dishes.

How to get to Orvieto from Rome: Regular trains serve Orvieto from Rome Termini (1 hour 15 minutes). By car, it’s just off the main north–south A1 autostrada .

9. See Renaissance masterpieces in Florence

Travel time: 1.5 hours

With Florence only an hour and a half away by fast train, the city can be visited in a day. You won’t have time for everything , but you’ll be able to squeeze in the headline sights  – especially if you’ve pre-booked museum tickets through Firenze Musei . From the train station walk down to Piazza del Duomo, home to a trio of celebrated sights: the Duomo with its distinctive red-tiled dome, the Giotto-designed campanile and the Battistero di San Giovanni.

From there, continue onto Piazza della Signoria, where you can visit Florence's lavish town hall, Palazzo Vecchio , and come face to face with Renaissance masterpieces at the Galleria degli Uffizi . To fuel your wanderings, stop for an innovative lunch at #Raw , a vegan concept started by Florence natives who returned home after traveling the world. However, tradition still reigns supreme at Gilli , one of the city’s historic cafes and worth the visit. 

How to get to Florence from Rome: Regular trains connect Rome Termini with Florence’s Stazione di Santa Maria Novella.

10. Castelli Romani is the perfect day trip destination for foodies

Travel time: 30 to 45 mins

A pretty pocket of vine-clad hills and volcanic lakes on Rome's southern doorstep, the Castelli Romani makes for a fabulous foodie trip. The area is most well known as the headquarters for porchetta , a deboned suckling pig that’s slathered in spices and fennel pollen and roasted to perfection. If you’re traveling toward the town of Ariccia on a Sunday, expect to see legions of hungry Romans stopped on the side of the road, waiting desperately for a suitably over-stuffed panino full of pork. Frascati, one of the most accessible towns of the Castelli Romani, makes it easy: feast on porchetta and local white wine at the Cantina Simonetti , one of several historic cellars in town. 

How to get to Castelli Romani from Rome: Direct trains serve Frascati and take about 30 minutes. Castel Gandolfo is on the Albano Laziale line, and the ride is about 45 minutes. Both leave from Termini station in Rome. 

11. Build your street food tour in Naples 

Travel time: 1 to 1.5 hours

As awe-inspiring as Rome might be, nowhere is quite like Naples – this city  is pure passion. And there’s no better way to experience it than to eat your way through town . Street food is a religion in Naples, so plan to start your day in the Pignasecca market in the center of the city where you’ll experience the full sensory overload that Naples is so well known to inspire. Keep going until you’re in the thick of the Quartiere Spagnolo , where you’ll smell food everywhere. Get ready to embrace the fry: pizza,  crocchè (potato croquettes), calamari, octopus or zucchini... everything is dipped in batter and fried until perfectly golden. Wash it all down with a legendary coffee from the equally legendary Caffe Gambrinus , and don’t forget a bag of sfogliatelle pastries for the train back to Rome. 

How to get to Naples from Rome: Naples and Rome are well connected via rail link including the Frecciarossa service.

This article was first published May 23, 2019 and updated Dec 13, 2023.

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Day Trips from Rome by Train – A Guide to 10 Adventures

Rome is full of art and a captivating charm that was once the cradle of human achievement, but if you’ve seen everything the Eternal City has to offer, and if you’d like to escape for a day, you have plenty of fun and exciting day trips from Rome by train that will give you a change of scenery. Italy has a lot to see, so it only makes sense to see all that you can while here.

There is no shortage of day trips from Rome by train, and you can choose from many popular destinations that include Pompeii, Naples, Pisa, Tivoli, Florence, Frascati, and Assisi. Explore the ancient Roman ruins and discover the beauties of a mighty empire that once ruled across three continents. The day trips here will give you a break from the Eternal City while enjoying yourself immensely.

Curious about the best day trips and finding one that will leave you awestruck at all the beauty of Italian culture? Read on as we look at the best things to do on a day trip from Rome.

Before Leaving Rome…

Have you seen all the popular sites in Rome like the Pantheon, the Vatican, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain? If you’ve seen all of this and more and would like to explore the fun places surrounding Rome in Central Italy , then prepare for this ultimate list of the best day trips from Rome by train and explore this country to its fullest potential.

The 10 Best Day Trips from Rome by Train

Train travel takes you straight to the heart of the action, and you can avoid the parking issues common throughout the country. No better way to see the Bael Paese exists than to travel by train and links exist in most towns and cities making travel easier. Let’s take a look at the most wonderful day trips.

Estimated Time: 1h 58 min

Treasured because it offers one of the most untainted looks into ancient Roman culture, Pompeii is a time capsule and a tragic story from a volcano eruption that killed at least 2,000 people. Some believe the death toll could be as high as 16,000. One of the most fascinating discoveries here was a giraffe bone that the wealthy people sought as an exotic food for their meals. This is one of the best day trips from Rome by train that will leave you speechless. You will see some of the best preserved human remains like a partially visible ear.

2. Ostia Antica

Estimated Time: 30 min

Much closer to Rome than the first destination, Ostia Antica ranks as one of the most beautiful sites near Rome and like the first site, history fanatics will fall in love with the ancient city. The two main things to see include the “Borgo” with a lovely castle, and the archaeological park that dates back to the later half of the 4th century BC as an armed camp. Historians often attribute this large archaeological site to King Ancus Marcus, whom they believe founded it in 630 BC for salt pans at the mouth of the Tiber River.

Read more: What to Wear in Rome – Where Fashion Meets History

3. Florence

Estimated Time: 1h 39 min

Once the heart of the Italian Renaissance, many of the country’s most celebrated artists lived in Florence, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Giorgio Vasari, Leon Battista Alberti, and Masaccio. Florence is like an elegant overture full of museums and art galleries that enchant you, and the cuisine here is to die for. The most famous dish to try here is Bistecca alla Fiorentina. You can view many Renaissance artworks in the museums and art galleries in Florence .

4. Frascati

Estimated Time: 25 min

Frascati is one of the day trips from Rome Italy by train that is famous for its white wine and its luxurious villas. You will find that many of the locals hang out here at the piazza. Few people in Frascati speak English, so you would want to keep that in mind when coming here. Try the white wine known as Frascati Superiore. The family making wine here has done it since the 1500s. During a trip to this village, the landscapes will enchant you into a dream-like state of being.

Estimated Time: 39 min

Sitting 18 miles to the north of Rome, ancient Tivoli boasts a rich history even further back than Rome, and it dates back to 1215 BC. You might think of Tivoli as the site of the thermal baths. Since ancient times, people saw Tivoli as a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Rome. You will find two famous, but extraordinarily different villas in Tivoli. First, you have Hadrian’s Villas, which were once the retreat of the Roman emperor. Second, you have Villa d’Este, which was a lush and watery 16th-century residence of the Catholic cardinal Ippolito d’Este , which today is an Italian state museum and an UNESCO World Heritage site.

6.   Amalfi Coast

Estimated Time: 2h

Since ancient Roman days, the Amalfi Coast has captured the imagination of its travelers, and it would make a good day trip for those who love nature trails, the sea, history, and art. UNESCO made the Amalfi Coast into a World Heritage site in 1997. The beaches rank among some of the most beautiful in the world making it one of the perfect day trips from Rome Italy by train for people who love chilling on the beach.

Read more: Rome to Amalfi Coast Day Trip- Everything You Need to Know

Estimated Time: 1h 34 min

Holding wonders as a medieval Umbrian city, the whole town has narrow streets, historic palaces, and beautiful churches. Orvieto also includes a maze of underground tunnels and caves with over 1,200 tunnels from the Etruscan civilization . Running through this ancient labyrinth will take you back 2,500 years.

Estimated Time: 1h 51 min

Famous because of it being the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi , this city holds many spiritual treasures and works of art. You would enjoy a day trip here because you won’t struggle to think of fun things to do while in Assisi. For one thing, you have a long list of basilicas and churches that you can visit, and the streets are beautiful. This has also become somewhat of a favorite spiritual retreat among Catholics who love St. Francis, and this includes many monks and nuns. The town has a strong link with Franciscans. Many come for the masterpieces of Cimabue and Giotto. Everything gets set against a backdrop of beautiful wooded hills. When you go to Assisi, try their Agnello allo scottadito, which is a grilled lamb cutlet.

Estimated Time: 2h 31 min

Perhaps most famous for its Leaning Tower of Pisa, the city has a whole lot more to offer, which is why it makes sense as one of the day trips from Rome by train.Their food identity has always been connected to the sea, and some of their best dishes will be the fish. For example, Spaghetti con le arselle, are stuffed mussels in the Pisa style. They’re filled with squid, shrimp, and eggs and cooked in tomato sauce. The lively historical center and the art collection, along with the quirky churches of Pisa, has a ton to offer tourists. You could also take a trip to the naval museum, which will give you over 1,000 years of Italian naval history. Discover the trade routes used and the evidence of shipwrecks. Pisa is not a large city, and you only need a day to see most of it.

Estimated Time: 1h 19 min

The largest historic center of Europe, Naples gives you narrow artistic streets, ancient churches, imposing palaces, and underground tunnels. You can admire the ancient artifacts and look at places that go back 5,000 years. Naples is full of mystery, and it ranks as the third largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan. You would especially want to come here for the archaeological museum since it ranks as one of the best in all of Italy—it may even be one of the best in the world. In many cases, people overlook Naples for its more popular rivals Florence, Milan, and Rome, but just remember—this was the place that invented pizza. A place that invented a food that good has to be worth the visit. Naples in general is also a foodie’s paradise with tons of great foods to choose from.

The Secret Tours That We Recommend

Now that we’ve looked at the best cities for day trips from Rome by train,let’s take a look at a couple of secret tours that we would recommend you try.

Rome to Pompeii Tour with Wine and Lunch (by High Speed Train)

An all-inclusive and value-packed day trip , you can take this tour to eliminate much of the hassle. Skip the lines and enjoy wine tasting at a farm where you will experience the finest. You will also listen to Pompeii and its history from an expert archaeological guide. Where you will eat your lunch will be right next to a vineyard located on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius.

Ancient Ostia Antica (Semi-Private Day Trip from Rome by Train with Guide)

The ruins of Ostia Antica sometimes are called “The better Pompeii” because of how excellently preserved everything is here. This half-day trip from Rome will look at the taverns and baths of Neptune. Some of the notable things that you will see while on tour here include Ostia’s Amphitheater, the Collegiate Temple, and the Forum of the Corporations. Train tickets are included with this day trip tour , and you will tour with an English-speaking guide.

Rome to Florence: High-Speed Train Day Trip

During this day trip tour , you will see all the most treasured architectural masterpieces Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. You will explore this city on a guided walking tour that will let you skip to the head of the line at the Uffizi Gallery, which helps you to beat the crowds. At the same time, you will be given free time to roam the city on your own and see what wonders you can discover. The guide is a professional local who knows the area.

How to Reach the Rome Train Station

For an unforgettable day trip from Rome by train, start your journey at the bustling Rome Termini, the main train station situated at Via Giovanni Giolitti, 40, 00185 Rome, RM, Italy. This central transportation hub not only serves as a gateway to various enchanting destinations but also offers a glimpse into the vibrant rhythm of Roman life.

To reach Rome Termini seamlessly, consider calling a taxi or using a convenient ride-sharing service like Uber. This ensures a stress-free and timely arrival, allowing you to focus on the exciting adventure that awaits you. The station itself is a marvel of architectural grandeur, with its distinctive facade and bustling atmosphere creating an atmosphere of anticipation for your upcoming escapade.

Best Train Companies for a Day Trip from Rome

Let’s take a look at the best trains to take for a day trip from Rome and what you need to know about riding on each one.

• Italo – Known for its elegance and comfort, Italo lets you relax and ride in security and privacy. This high-speed train will get you to your destination on time because they tend to leave on time.
• Trenitalia – These trains have no seat reservations, and they depart and arrive from the centers of all the major cities.

FAQs about day trips from Rome by train

Let’s take a look at the most frequently asked questions that we encounter from travelers who choose to do a day trip from Rome.

Where Can You Take a Train from Rome to?

The trains from Rome go to all the major Italian cities and even some of the major European cities. Some of the places where you can go include Milan, Naples, Florence, Amalfi Coast, and Pisa.

How Do I Buy Train Tickets in Rome?

The fastest way to buy train tickets in Rome is with the automated ticket machines. Just look for the English option to make it easier to navigate.

Can I Use My Credit Card to Buy Train Tickets in Rome?

You can use credit cards to buy a train ticket while in Rome, but you will need a credit card with a PIN.

Which is the Difference between High-Speed and Regional Train Tickets in Italy?

High-speed train tickets will usually cost more than the regional train tickets because they take you to your destination faster. The regional trains, in comparison, may move more slowly, but they give you a broader network of towns to visit.

Featured Image Credits : Rob Dammers , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

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12 of the Best Day Trips From Rome

Roam away from Rome with these day trips to beaches, hill towns, and famous archaeological sites.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

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It can take a lifetime to thoroughly see Rome, with all its archaeological sites, historic landmarks, and ruins. If you’re interested in breaking up your time in the Eternal City with a day trip or two, you’re in luck: Rome is within easy reach of an array of day trip destinations, including major archaeological landmarks, charming hill towns, and pleasant seasides.

Below are the best day trips from Rome — most of which are conveniently accessible by public transport. While many of these destinations can be longer trips, they’re still worthy journeys to make when you want to step away from crowds of Italy’s biggest city.

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Full disclosure: A day trip to Pompeii will barely allow you to scratch the surface of this vast and fascinating archaeological site, where ash from the 79 C.E. eruption of Mount Vesuvius sealed the city in a 2,000-year-old time capsule. But you can cover a lot of ground in a day if you get an early start.

Take a morning high-speed train (either Trenitalia or Italo) to Naples’ Central station, then the Circumvesuviana regional line to the Pompei Scavi stop. Allow at least four to five hours to walk around the ruins. There’s also a daily shuttle bus from central Rome straight to the ruins.

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A vacation destination since the days of the Roman Empire, Tivoli is about an hour east of Rome. It’s the site of Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana), the splendid ruins of the pleasure palace inspired by Roman emperor Hadrian’s far-flung travels. Tivoli is also home to 16th-century Villa d’Este and its magnificent gardens filled with fountains (including a musical one), waterfalls, streams, and other engineering wonders.

Since Villa d’Este is within walking distance of the train station, we recommend seeing Hadrian’s Villa in the morning, grabbing the bus back into town for lunch, and then touring Villa d’Este before taking an evening train back to Rome.

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To experience a slice of medieval Italy, catch a train to Orvieto , an Umbrian hill town about 1.5 hours north of Rome. A quick funicular ride from the train station takes you to the top of the tufa cliffs, which was first settled by the Etruscans , then destroyed by the Romans, and later rebuilt in the 12th century. Spend a pleasant day admiring its magnificent duomo, wandering its narrow streets, exploring its underground remains, and enjoying Orvieto Classico (the region’s white wine) and some hearty local cuisine. There’s plenty here to keep you for a night or two, if you have the time

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If you don’t have the time to schlep to Pompeii, don’t overlook Ostia Antica, an archeological site located roughly an hour from central Rome via commuter train. Though it didn’t have the same dramatic climax as Pompeii, Ostia was once the main port city of Rome and now offers a similar step back into a well-preserved Roman city. Highlights include a theater, multistory apartment buildings, and a bathhouse, and a latrine.

There’s also the fascinating Piazzale delle Corporazioni, a former open-air market where the inscriptions on the mosaic floors indicate the merchants that once inhabited the space. Trains to Ostia depart from Rome’s Ostiense train station.

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While a day or two is not enough to see Florence, an early start and a high-speed train to Santa Maria Novella station can get you to the cradle of the Italian Renaissance in less than two hours. It’ll leave you with a full day to explore and still be back in Rome by evening. Florence’s historic center is compact and walkable, making it possible to take in most of its major attractions in a few hours. This includes the Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, the bustling San Lorenzo Market, and the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge. Reserve timed entry in advance if you want to visit the Uffizi Gallery or see Michelangelo’s "David" in the Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze .

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Fast trains from Rome will get you to Napoli Centrale, the city’s main station, in just over an hour. We suggest spending the morning along the Spaccanapoli, a narrow street that cuts through the historical part of town. Be sure to take detours into its side streets , duck into churches, visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum , and sample the street food, including pastries and delicious fried pizza. In the afternoon, head to the seaside via taxi or subway — Naples' elaborately designed Metro stations are not to be missed — and spend a few hours strolling the waterfront, visiting the Castel dell'Ovo, and having a sunset aperitivo or dinner before catching a train back to Rome.

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If you’re interested in the complicated history of southern Italy, or you simply want to immerse yourself in Baroque architecture, the Royal Palace of Caserta is a long (but doable) day trip from Rome. The 18th-century palace, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the largest palace in Europe — even bigger than Versailles, on which it was modeled. The grand interiors vie for attention with the spectacular gardens, which include a two-mile canal, cascades, fountains, and a dreamy English garden. The palace entrance is just across the train station, which is approximately an hour ride from Rome.

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With a couple of direct trains to and from Rome each day, Assisi can be reached in a little more than two hours. While this majestic city is a pilgrimage destination, it's equally fascinating for anyone curious to learn more about the life of St. Francis and the history of the Franciscan order. (St. Francis is known for helping the poor and underprivileged, caring for animals, and founding the Franciscan order.) The basilica that houses his tomb, as well as frescoes by Italian painters Giotto and Cimabue, is a must-visit. Other worthy spots to check out: the Basilica di Santa Chiara, a Roman temple in the heart of the old town, and an ancient forum several feet underground. Assisi’s narrow streets are filled with cute shops, wine bars, and traditional trattorias.

Castelli Romani

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A short distance from Rome, the hill towns of the Castelli Romani region were the summer retreat for wealthy Roman nobles and, later, for even wealthier popes. Today, it’s a popular destination for sampling local food and wines. For those without a rental car, the two best options are Frascati and Castel Gandolfo — both towns are less than an hour away by train. At Frascati, you can visit the art-filled villas of the faded Roman aristocracy and enjoy glasses (or bottles!) of wine with lunch in one of its characteristic fraschette , or taverns. In Castel Gandolfo, visit the pope's summer palace and gardens, take in views of Lake Albano, or arrange for a tour and tasting at a nearby winery.

Santa Marinella

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If the sea calls to you, Santa Marinella is one of the best places to spend a beach day close to the city. About an hour from Rome by train, it’s not quite as convenient as other popular spots like Ostia’s waterfront or Fregenae, but the beaches are better and there are some nice spots for outdoor dining in the small town. If you spring for a lounge chair and umbrella at a stabilimenti (private beach), you’ll likely have access to a bathroom, showers, and a locker. Or, seek out a sandy spot on the spiaggia libera (free beach) — just expect to have lots of company on the weekends.

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Sperlonga is a bit of a haul from Rome, but it's worth it for its Blue Flag beach — a designation of cleanliness and water quality — and the picturesque town itself. To get there, take the roughly 90-minute train from the Roma Termini station to the Fondi Sperlonga stop, then grab a shuttle bus or taxi down to the seaside. There are several beaches along the 3.5-mile seafront, and most have clear, shallow water and excellent swimming conditions. A free beach area near the Villa di Tiberio offers a good excuse to explore the seaside retreat of first-century Roman emperor Tiberius.

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This is the only destination on our list that isn’t super-convenient for train travelers, but Cerveteri makes the cut for its Etruscan cemetery, the Necropoli della Banditaccia. This so-called "city of the dead" — laid out in a pattern similar to city blocks — is largely filled with above-ground dome- or square-shaped tombs, many of which contain several rooms. As one of the most important archaeological sites in the Etruscan realm, the necropolis has yielded a trove of artifacts and information about these enigmatic predecessors to the Romans. To get there without a car, take the train from Roma Termini to Ladispoli-Cerveteri, from where it's a 10-minute taxi ride to the site.

29 Amazing Day Trips from Rome By Train, Car & Guided Tour

Explore lakes, mountains, hilltop villages and roman ruins with these wonderful day trips from rome.

Rome’s charm knows no bounds. No matter how much time you spend in the Eternal City , it’s never enough. But there are some exciting day trips from Rome to take if you can manage to pull yourself away! In fact, there’s so much to do beyond the city limits that you’ll soon wonder why you didn’t budget more time for it.

Geography helps a lot since Rome sits in a region filled with incredible landmarks, bordering Italian jewels like Tuscany and Umbria . From idyllic lakeside villages to spectacular countryside and vibrant beaches, the places you can visit while staying in Rome offer some of the best experiences you can get bwhile traveling in Italy.

In this guide, I’ve cherry-picked 29 fabulous day trips from Rome that you can easily do independently. If you don’t want to drive or deal with public transportation, I’ve also included some recommended top-rated organised tours.

Map of Day trips from Rome

For reference, here’re each destination in this guide mapped out.

Best day trips from Rome in Lazio

Castel gandolfo.

How to get to Castel Gandolfo from Rome: you can drive to Castel Gandolfo in about 40 minutes, but the train from Roma Termini is just as fast and much less stressful (from €2.10 one way). Make sure to buy the return at Termini station since there is no vending machine in Castel Gandolfo. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details to plan and book your journey. For a truly special trip, purchase tickets for the train leaving from inside the Vatican (tickets here ). 

Take one of these tours: Castelgandolfo Pontifical Villas from Rome // Castel Gandolfo gardens and food experience at the Pope’s farm

museivaticaniroma. it | Saturday-Sunday from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM | €24.00

Castelli Romani

Ruspoli Palace in Nemi

Castel Gandolfo is part of a larger group of charming towns known as Castelli Romani, nestled in the Colli Albani (Alban Hills) southeast of Rome. The name of the area (literally, Roman Castles) comes from the fact that historically it was the playground of the Roman elites, who built grand palaces and mansions here. The Castelli Romani offers wonderful sightseeing opportunities, including the beautiful amphitheater of Tusculum and the 11th-century Byzantine-Greek monastery of Grottaferrata. Also, you’ll get to sample top delicacies at a local fraschetta , which is a traditional tavern. The porchetta from Ariccia, the wild strawberries from Nemi, and DOC white wine from the area are all great.

How to get to Castelli Romani from Rome: The region is especially easy to reach by car (a little under an hour). You can also catch a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Termini to the main town Frascati (40 minutes, from €2.10 one way) and then use local buses to explore the other villages. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details  to plan and book your journey.

Take one of these tours: Castelli Romani, an experience between art, culture, food & wine // Castelli Romani tour from Rome

Villa d’este and hadrian’s villa in tivoli.

Villa d’Este

The 16th-century Villa d’Este is just as spectacular, featuring innovative Renaissance architecture and Italian-style gardens regarded as some of the world’s finest. Also worth seeing on a day trip to Tivoli is Villa Gregoriana, with its beautiful complex of wooded parks, waterfalls, and grottoes.

How to get to Tivoli from Rome: Take a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Termini or Roma Tiburtina to Tivoli (about an hour, from €2.60 one way). While Villa Gregoriana is a short walk from Tivoli station, you’ll have to catch the CAT bus n.4 to reach Hadrian’s Villa ( Villa Adriana stop) and Villa d’Este ( Piazza Garibaldi stop). By car, it’s a quick 40-minute drive, and you’ll find numerous parking lots. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey.

Take one of these tours: Tivoli Day Trip from Rome with Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este // Day Trip From Rome to Tivoli Villas with Lunch  

coopculture.it/villa-deste   | Monday from 2:00 PM to 7:45 PM, Tuesday – Sunday from 8:45AM to 7:45 PM | €10.00 —— coopculture.it/hadrians-villa | Monday-Sunday from 8:15 AM to 7:30 PM | €10.00

The Park of the Monsters in Bomarzo (Parco dei Mostri)

How to get to Bomarzo from Rome: Reaching the park by public transport can be a bit challenging. Catch a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Termini or Tiburtina towards Viterbo, get off at Orte, then take a bus to Bomarzo. Alternatively, drive along the A1 highway, take the Orte or Attigliano exit, then follow the signs to the park (1.5 hours in total). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details  to plan and book your journey.

Take this tour: Rome tour to Bomarzo Caprarola & Calcata // Day trip from Rome: Bomarzo and Caprarola – private tour  

sacrobosco.eu | Every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM November-February and from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM March-September | €13.00

Lake Bracciano

How to get to Bracciano from Rome: Hop on a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Tiburtina or Ostiense towards Viterbo and stop at Anguillara or Bracciano (about an hour, from €3.60 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. By car, it takes about 40 minutes to make the trip. You could also consider a private transfer from Rome to Lake Bracciano.

Take one of these tours: Roman countryside & Lake Bracciano day- trip from Rome // Private day trip from Rome to Bracciano Lake and surrounding areas

Ostia antica.

Statue of the god Mithras

The best Roman archeological park in Italy outside of Pompeii and Herculaneum is Ostia Antica, one of the easiest day trips from Rome by train. At the time of the empire, Ostia was Rome’s main seaport, and 2000 years later, it provides an impressive window into daily life way back when. Wandering around the site, you’ll see the remains of warehouses, grain deposits, apartments, cafeterias with pictorial menus, and even public restrooms, all laid out in a typical Roman grid plan. This high level of preservation was possible because of the mud that buried Ostia for a long time, protecting it from the effects of time. There’s also a grand theatre with 4,000 seats still used for theatrical performances and striking floor mosaics.

How to get to Ostia Antica from Rome: Take the metro line B to Piramide, hop on a Trenitalia regional train from nearby Porta S.Paolo station towards Roma Lido and get off at Ostia Antica (about 40 min, from €1.50 one way). The archeological park is just a quick stroll from the station. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey.

Take one of these tours: Ancient Ostia Antica semi-private day trip from Rome by train with guide // Ostia Antica – life in Ancient Rome private tour

ostiaantica.beniculturali.it | Tuesday-Sunday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM in low season and 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM in high season | €14

The Garden of Ninfa (Giardino di Ninfa)

How to get to the Garden of Ninfa from Rome: There’s no direct public transport to the garden. You can only take a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Termini to Latina (about 45 minutes, from €4.10 one way) and then it’s a 15-minute taxi ride to the site. Driving takes a little over an hour and there’s plenty of free parking at the entrance.

Take this tour: Garden of Ninfa and Sermoneta day trip from Rome with lunch

giardinodininfa.eu | Saturday-Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM | €15.75

Civita di Bagnoregio

How to get to Civita di Bagnoregio from Rome: Catch a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Termini to Orvieto (1.15 hours, from €8.60 one way), then a Cotral bus that goes to Civita. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. Getting there by car is much easier (1:45 in total) and you can park at the Belvedere (€2/h) near the footbridge. You could also consider this private transfer between Rome and Civita di Bagnoregio.

Take one of these tours: Civita di Bagnoregio private walking tour // Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio full day tour from Rome // Civita di Bagnoregio and the Monster Park

Fregene (Fregenae)

When the city’s heat gets too much, go to the beach! Fregene offers some of the best beaches near Rome, with stretches of golden sand protected by an ancient pine forest. There are nice beach resorts for a relaxing day by the sea, and many seafront restaurants and aperitivo spots attract stylish crowds from the city. This is a great day trip to experience beach life Italian style. Plus, a couple of kilometres south of Fregene, the Macchiagrande natural oasis is a beautiful stretch of Mediterranean vegetation offering many opportunities for birdwatching.

How to get to Fregene from Rome: Take the metro line A to the “Cornelia” stop, then hop on a Cotral bus line 11 to Fregene (about an hour, from €3.00 one way). By car, it’s about 45min.

Santa Marinella

How to get to Santa Marinella from Rome: Take a Trenitalia regional train from Termini Station to Civitavecchia and get off at Santa Marinella (one hour, from €4.6 one way). The beach is only five minutes from the train station, it’s as easy as that. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey.

Tarquinia & Cerveteri

Cerveteri – Etruscan Necopolis

Tarquinia – Frescoes in Etruscan tomb

The ancient Romans played a significant role in Italian history, but they were actually preceded by the Etruscans. Some of the best places to learn more about this ancient civilisation in Italy are Tarquinia and Cerveteri, just north of Rome. Both a UNESCO world heritage site, their necropolises constitute a unique, exceptional testimony of the ancient Etruscans, the only urban civilisation of the pre-Roman Age. In fact, much of what we know about this civilisation is from these tombs. For example, the painted tombs in Tarquinia beautifully depict family scenes that offer a great detail of their daily lives. While in Cerveteri, the decorations inside the Tomb of the Reliefs even recreate an Etruscan household.

How to get to Cerveteri and Tarquinia from Rome: A car is your best option: a one-hour drive to Cerveteri and a further 20 minutes to reach Tarquinia. If you’re relying on public transport, take a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Termini toward Pisa and stop at Marina di Cerveteri (about an hour, from €3.60 one way) or Tarquinia (1.15 hours, from €5.60 one way). While the necropolis in Tarquinia is close to the station, in Marina di Cerveteri you’ll have to catch a bus to Cerveteri Piazza Aldo Moro and then a Linea G bus to the “Banditaccia Necropolis” stop. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey.

Take this tour: Day tour from Rome to the Etruscan necropolis of Tarquinia and Cerveteri

necropoliditarquinia.it | Tuesday-Sunday from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM | €6.00 — polomusealelazio.beniculturali.it/banditaccia | Wednesday-Sunday from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM | €6.00

The Ulysses Riviera

Sperlonga lighthouse

The Ulysses Riviera is a stretch of coast in southern Lazio with lovely historical towns and Blue Flag beaches. The name comes from the fact that even a tireless traveller like Ulysses couldn’t resist stopping on these beautiful shores! On a day trip from Rome, you can see Sperlonga , a cute town with whitewashed houses and panoramic watchtowers, or Gaeta , whose skyline is dominated by the impressive Angioino/Aragonese castle. They’re both favourite getaways for Romans, who often have summer homes here. You’ll find lovely lidos with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and stretches of free beach.

How to get to the Ulysses Riviera from Rome: For Sperlonga, take a Trenitalia regional from Roma Termini to Fondi-Sperlonga (about 1.15 hours, from €7 one way), then a bus to Sperlonga. For Gaeta, get off at the following station, Formia Gaeta (1.5 hours, from €8.40 one way), then hop on a free shuttle to Formia port and another bus into Gaeta. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. With a car, it’s a 2-hour drive to Sperlonga. You could also consider this private transfer from Rome and Sperlonga.

Take this tour: Tour “Riviera di Ulisse”(Parco Monte Orlando-Montagna Spaccata Gaeta)

Montecassino Abbey

If you’re looking for a spiritual pilgrimage or just something unique to do after all the sightseeing in the city, consider the Abbey of Montecassino for a day trip. Standing high atop Mount Cairo, it is one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Lazio region. It was founded in 529 by San Benedetto da Norcia, thus starting the Benedictine order. With one of the most important libraries during the middle ages, it became a significant point of reference for European art and culture. Its monks also started the first beer production activity in a monastery, which was a big hit then. St. Benedict’s remains are inside the abbey, and there’s a museum with ancient manuscripts and Botticelli’s Nativity.

How to get to the Montecassino Abbey from Rome: Take a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Termini to Cassino (90 min, from €8.40 one way), then a bus right outside the station that takes you up the mountain. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. Alternatively, it’s a 2-hour drive south of Rome along the A1 motorway (Cassino exit).

Take one of these tours: Montecassino day trip from Rome // Montecassino Abbey full day from Rome

abbaziamontecassino.org | Monday-Saturday from 9:30 AM to 4:50 PM between November and March; every day from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM between April and October

How to get to Viterbo from Rome : Hop on a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Ostiense to Viterbo Porta Romana (about 1.40 hour, from €5.60 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. By car, it’s about an hour and a half.

Take this tour: Viterbo private walking tour

View from Chiaia di Luna

Ponza might be hard to see as a day trip from Rome, but with good planning, it’s still doable. The largest of a group of tiny islands off Lazio called Pontine, Ponza is fairly quiet for most of the year and truly comes alive in summer, drawing crowds with its transparent waters and sun-soaked beaches. You can spend your day trip exploring the island’s treasures, beach-hopping, or simply indulging in a bit of dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing).

How to get to Ponza from Rome: There are Trenitalia regional trains from Roma Termini to Anzio Colonia station (one hour, from €3.60 one way), then you have to walk to the Anzio port to board a Vetor hydrofoil to Ponza (70 minutes, from €36.00 one way plus a €2.50-€4.00 landing tax depending on the season). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey.

Take this tour: Ponza Island Day Trip from Rome

Villa farnese in caprarola.

How to get to Villa Farnese from Rome: There are no direct trains to Caprarola, so you’ll have to catch one of the Cotral buses departing from Rome Saxa Rubra (70min, from €1.10 one way). By car, it’s an hours drive and you’ll find parking space near the entrance to Palazzo Farnese.

Take this tour: Villa Farnese: Renaissance Residence tour with lunch

caprarola.com/palazzo-farnese | Tuesday-Sunday from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM | € 5.00

How to get to Calcata from Rome: You can reach this fascinating village with a one-hour drive north of Rome. There are also Cotral buses departing from Rome Saxa Rubra (about one hour, from €2-3 one way). For ease, consider this private transfer from Rome to Calcata.

Take this tour: Day Trip from Rome: Calcata and Bracciano Lake private tour

La Rocca Abbaziale

About an hour east of Rome, Subiaco is an oasis of nature and spirituality where St. Benedict and his sister Scholastica lived as hermits for about 3 years. Here, they established a beautiful monastery embedded into the rocky mountainside. What makes this religious building so special is that it consists of two churches built on top of one another. The interiors are decorated with impressive frescoes, including the oldest portrait of Saint Francis of Assisi and one depicting the Last Supper.

How to get to Subiaco from Rome: The easiest way is to go by car (about an hour). Alternatively, take the metro line B to the Ponte Mammolo stop, then hop on a bus to Piazza Falcone in Subiaco (about 1.5 hours, from €4.30 one way).

Lake Bolsena and Montefiascone

Lake Bolsena

At the border between Lazio and Umbria, Lake Bolsena is a great, relaxing spot for a break from the city. It’s a lake of volcanic origin, the largest of its kind in Europe, and offers a mix of beautiful scenery, charming villages, sandy beaches, and excellent local gastronomy.

Montefiascone

Montefiascone is one of the biggest towns on the lake, set atop a hill with sweeping views of the surroundings. Within the historic centre are some beautiful landmarks, including the fortress that became the Rector’s Seat of St. Peter’s Patrimony in the region. The town also produces a highly regarded white wine called Est Est Est, which is celebrated with a special festival in August.

How to get to Lake Bolsena from Rome: The lake is easiest to get to by car (1.5 hours), since public transport is scarce and often involves changes. This private transfer from Rome to Bolsena may help.

Take one of these tours: Roman countryside & Lake Bracciano day-trip from Rome // Bolsena on the Lake and Montefiascone private day tour from Rome

Best day trips from rome outside of lazio, orvieto (umbria).

How to get to Orvieto from Rome: There are frequent Trenitalia regional and fast regional trains from Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina to Orvieto (about an hour, from €8.60 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. Driving takes a similar amount of time, but you can stop and take photos of the marvellous scenery whenever you want.

Take one of these tours: Easy day trip from Rome to Orvieto art and local food // Assisi and Orvieto Day Trip from Rome

Assisi (umbria).

How to get to Assisi from Rome: Regular Trenitalia fast regional trains depart take to Assisi from Roma Termini (2 hours, from €11.70 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. By car, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive.

Take one of these tours: Assisi Day Trip from Rome with Transportation // Assisi from Rome private tour

Florence (tuscany).

Don’t miss my guides on the best things to do in Florence, where to find the best gelato in Florence and  27 things to avoid when visiting Florence

How to get to Florence from Rome: The Tuscan capital is especially easy to reach from Rome, with Trenitalia or Italo high-speed trains from Roma Termini reaching Firenze Santa Maria Novella trains from the city center reaching Segovia in 1.5 hours (from €9.90 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey.

Take one of these tours: Wonders of Florence day trip from Rome // Day trip to Florence and Pisa from Rome

Naples (Campania)

How to get from Naples to Rome: Getting to Naples is very easy with regular Trenitalia or Italo high-speed train making the the quick journey to Napoli Centrale (about 1h15m, from €9.90 one way). For a splurge, you can also book a private transfer from Rome to Naples.

Take one of these tours:

Naples small-group day trip from rome // naples experience full day from rome  , pompeii (campania).

How to get to Pompeii from Rome: Take a Trenitalia or Italo high-speed train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale (about 1.15 hours, from €9.90 one way), then hop on a Circumvesuviana train towards Sorrento and get off at the Pompei Scavi station (30 min, from €2.60 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey.

Take one of these tours: Pompeii Ruins Day Tour from Rome // Pompeii from Rome with Wine Tasting and Lunch // Full Day Pompeii and Naples tour from Rome

pompeiisites.org | Every day from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM April-October and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM November-March | €16.00

Amalfi Coast (Campania)

How to get to the Amalfi Coast from Rome: Travel on a Trenitalia or Italo high-speed train from Roma Termini to Salerno (about 2 hours, from €16.90 one way), then reach Amalfi and the other villages of the Amalfi Coast with the Sita bus 5120 (about 1.15 hour, from €2.00 one way) or a Travelmar ferry (about 30 min, from €9.00 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. Driving from Rome to Amalfi takes about 3.5 hours.

Take one of these tours: Amalfi Coast full-day tour from Rome // P ompeii And Amalfi Coast Day Tour from Rome // Amalfi Coast Positano and Amalfi full day from Rome

Capri (campania).

How to get to Cari from Rome: Catch a Trenitalia or Italo high-speed train from Roma Termini to Salerno (about 2 hours, from €16.90 one way), then the metro to Piazza Municipio and a high-speed ferry from nearby Molo Beverello to Capri (45 min, from €23.50 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. If you are travelling by car, drive to Naples in about 2.5 hours, then park the car at the Molo Beverello controlled parking lot (€15.00 for the day)

Take one of these tours: Capri Island: Day Trip from Rome with the Blue Grotto // Capri Island boat tour from Rome by train

Sorrento (campania).

How to get to Sorrento from Rome: Hop on a Trenitalia or Italo high-speed train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale (about 1h15m, from €9.90 one way), then a  Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento (about an hour, from €3.60 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. Driving will take about 3 hours.

Take one of these tours: Private Tour: Pompeii and Sorrento from Rome // Capri, Blue Grotto, Sorrento and Pompeii from Rome

Royal palace of caserta (reggia di caserta) (campania).

How to get to the Royal Palace of Caserta from Rome: The journey is extremely easy, with regular Trenitalia or Italo high-speed trains from Roma Termini to Caserta (just over an hour, from €9.90 one way). The Royal Palace is right in front of the station. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey. By car, it’s about 2 hours.

Take this tour: Full-Day Royal Palace of Caserta tour from Rome with lunch

reggiadicaserta.cultura.gov.it | Every day except Tuesday from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM | €18.00

Bologna (Emilia-Romagna)

How to get to Bologna from Rome: Take a Trenitalia or Italo high-speed train from Roma Termini to Bologna Centrale (2 hours, from €9.90 one way). To reach the city centre from the station, you can either walk for about 20 minutes or catch one of the numerous Tper buses going to Piazza Maggiore (for example line 21 or 30, from €1.50 one way). Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to plan and book your journey.

Take this tour: Day trip to Bologna from Rome

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9 Best Day Trips from Rome (by train and car)

Home / Blog / 9 Best Day Trips from Rome (by train and car)

Where to go in Italy after Rome?

Let us assume that you have quite a few days to spend in the capital, and are looking to dip your toes into exploring its surroundings, or other Italian towns and cities. It is such a pleasure and privilege to be able to have so many options within the country to travel to- this is why (very) occasional day trips from Rome are so common for local families.

You just need to have a desire for it, and on a whim, off you will be to immerse yourself into another environment!

What’s close to Rome?

You may be surprised by the myriad of jewels that crown the outskirts of Rome. Towns and cities in the countryside or by the sea that lend all kinds of history to the Roman Empire, that in today’s contemporary world shine for the architecture, artifacts and stories that they have to unveil to you.

Rome might be the first city that pops into your mind when you think about Italy, but there are some other cities that can be easily accessed from there that should be part of the top contenders of your Italian itinerary. They are famous from an artistic, cultural and culinary standpoint, all highlights in understanding the beauty of this Meditteranean country.

The biggest examples to be given:

Florence and Naples.

This article will include the best day trips from Rome that can be taken, a little bit about the history of each place and what these destinations have to offer you.

4 places to visit near Rome by train

Here are the most interesting day trips to take from Rome by train.

Known for its beautiful gardens and ancient Roman Villas, Tivoli is a sublime out-of-city experience that is a popular choice amongst the inhabitants of Rome. It is the most ethereal destination included in this list, with a dreamlike atmosphere that is sure to capture your imagination.

Location: Tivoli is in the Lazio region, located about 30 km northeast of Rome.

How to get there: It takes about an hour to reach Tivoli from Rome, with trains leaving hourly from the stations.

What to do: 

• Villa d’Este: Tivoli is best known for this 16th century villa and its gardens, which are considered to be some of the most beautiful to be found in Italy. Here you can find gorgeous Renaissance landscapes and many fountains such as Cento Fontane (Hundred Fountains) and the Water Organ Fountain.
• Hadrian’s Villa: Emperor Hadrian’s 2nd century AD Villa Adriana can be found close to Villa d’Este. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a mix of ancient architectural styles.

Tour to take: Tivoli and Villa d’Este 

Tivoli and Villa d'Este | Private

Visiting the town and comune of Cerveteri is one of the stranger, more remarkable day trips you can take from Rome. It is best known for the heritage it has preserved from the ancient (pre-Roman) Etruscan civilization, therefore allowing you to have quite peculiar explorations!

Location: Cerveteri also belongs to the Lazio region; it lies about 33 km northwest of Rome.

How to reach:  It takes approximately 1 hour  to reach Cerveteri from Rome, with trains leaving every half hour.

• Necropolis of Banditaccia:   A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this necropolis of the  Etruscan society is a fascinating and unique endeavour. Explore the tombs which are characterized by mounds of dirt used to form natural domes that cover each burial site.
• National Archaeological Museum of Cerveteri: Learn more about this ancient civilization and their ways of societal development through showcases of artifacts and other findings.
• Santa Maria Maggiore: Visit the medieval church in the historic center of the town.
• Panoramic views from the Cerveteri Castle: Climb atop the  medieval Ruspoli fortress to get panoramic views of the town.

Tour to take: Necropolis of Cerveteri

Necropolis of Cerveteri Tour | Private

Orvieto is built upon a rocky, volcanic cliff in the countryside of Umbria and is historically rich for it dates back to the Estrucan period and is dense with Renaissance and Medieval architecture.

Location : Orvieto is located in Umbria, about 96 km north of Rome.

How to reach: By train it takes 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Orvieto, with trains leaving every four hours from stations in Rome. By car it approximately the same time.

• Duomo di Orvieto: This cathedral is one of the most stunning examples of Italian Gothic architecture. The terrace of the cathedral also offers beautiful panoramic views of the Umbrian region.
• St. Patrick’s well: This is not an ordinary well. Named after the saint of Ireland, the well is an architectural wonder, which was built in the 16th century in order to supply water for the entire city of Orvieto.
• Wine tasting: Orvieto is known for its wine -a well known white wine is Orvieto Classico- and so there are plenty of vineyards, cellars and wine tastings for you to indulge in!
• Etruscan Necropolis and underground: The pre-Roman people -called the Etruscans- are a fascinating civilization to study due to their art, culture and advanced engineering.

Tour to take: Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio

Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio | Private

For a day by the sea, Ostia is the most accessible place to visit near Rome by train. The modern part of the city of Ostia is connected to the old, which is an archaeological site of a well-preserved port city that was of great significance for the trade activities of the Roman Empire.

Location: 24 km southwest from Rome, and on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea (this is where the Tiber River drains out!)

How to get there: It takes about 25-30 minutes to reach Ostia by one of the trains leaving hourly from Rome’s stations.

• Ostia Antica Archaelogical Site: Here, you can discover different aspects of the ancient port city such as the well preserved ruins that would give you insight on the city’s roads, infrastructure and public spaces. You can see temples, public baths and theaters, as well as mosaics and frescoes which would decorate this city.
• Relax by the Ostia beach: The sandy shores of Ostia beach make it the perfect place to swim and tan, or enjoy a seafood-based meal at a beachfront restaurant.
•  Look at the Baths of Neptune in Ostia: These well-preserved baths from the 2nd century AD have beautiful mosaics and a fountain that depicts Neptune, the mythological god of the sea.

Tour to take: Ancient Ostia Tour 

Ancient Ostia Tour | Private

Other wonderful places to visit near rome by train.

Travel from Rome to Florence

Florence is one of the most beautiful cities close to Rome to visit if you want to travel back in time and immerse yourself in the Renaissance period. It is home to galleries that hold some of the most globally esteemed art pieces.  The city itself follows a gorgeous color palette and has many ancient artisan practices and gastronomic taverns to explore.

Florence is perhaps the best choice for day trips from Rome by car considering the relatively short travel distance in relation to the absolute magnificence that the city has to offer.

Location: 289 km north of Rome, part of Tuscany (it is the capital of the region!).

How to get there:   The city is a 1.5-2 hours train ride away. By car it takes approximately 3 hours.

• Visit the Uffizi and Accademia Gallery: These two revered galleries hold an enormous collection of Renaissance art that may take hours to explore. At the Uffizi you can see Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera,  da Vinci’s Annunciation,  Raphael’s Madonna of the Goldfinch and works by Caravaggio, Titian, Rembrandt and more. At the Accademia you can view Michelangelo’s towering statue of David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world.
• Visit the Duomo: This cathedral is architecturally captivating, a visual icon to symbolize Florence with just as the Colosseum symbolizes Rome. The facade is made up of green, pink and white marble, and climbing to the top of the Duomo gives you a brilliant panoramic view of the city.
• Basilica di Santa Croce: This Italian Gothic basilica is one of the most important Franciscan churches in Italy. It has many chapels, Renaissance frescoes and paintings and also serves as a tomb for many influential  Italians such as Galileo, Michelangelo, Machiavelli.
• Indulge in Tuscan cuisine: Make use of this time in Florence to dine at various establishments to try what the region of Tuscany does best..such as meat dishes and wine!

Tour to take: Florence with Accademia or Uffizi Gallery

Florence with Accademia or Uffizi Gallery from Rome | Private

Travel from Rome to Pienza and Montepulciano

These two picturesque towns are nestled in the heart of Tuscany, and serve as great examples of the idyllic Tuscan scenery we associate the region with. However, both towns can be differentiated from one another, each with specific characteristics to be enjoyed by visitors.

Location: Located northwest from Rome in Tuscany, Pienza and Montepulciano are located approximately at a distance of 146 km.

How to get there: It takes about 2.5-3 hours to get to Pienza by train, and around the same amount of time by car. A car from Pienza to Montepulciano takes 20-30 minutes.

What to do i n Pienza: 

• Explore Piazza Pio II: This square is characterized by two magnificent structures on each opposite end. One is a Renaissance palace commissioned by Pope Pius II with a beautiful inner courtyard, and the other is the cathedral, Duomo di Pienza. There is a well located in the center of the piazza.
• Enjoy the views: Rolling hills and shades of green and auburn mix and meld into one another, making this one of the most beautiful views to witness.
• Eat Tuscan specialties: Pienza is notable for the production of pecorino cheese, and it comes in many different varieties. There is a lot of warm, hearty food to try in Tuscany, but when in Pienza, do indulge in a cheese tasting!

In Montepulciano: 

• Duomo di Montepulicano: This cathedral has both Gothic and Renaissance design elements and a bell tower that can be climbed for a panoramic view.
• Fortezza di Montepulciano: This historic fortress provides the highest lookout point from the town and exhibits a breathtaking view. Its construction is a mix of several architectural styles, and it has a museum within it.
• Drink fine wine: Montepulciano is renowned for its wine culture, with remarkable vineyards, cellars and wine bars to enjoy.

Tours to take

We can help you organize a true Tuscan experience capable of delighting the palate. Here are two tours to look into: 

Tuscany Wine and Cheese tour in Pienza and Montepulciano 

Transport is included in this tour, making your journey stress free and as picturesque as it can be, without giving public transport any chance of dampening the experience. This tour takes you to both towns, providing you with a guide if you prefer to have one, and offers a lunch and cheese tasting experience on top of a hill for a breathtaking view of the region! You will venture to Montepulciano to have wine in a historical underground cellar.

Pienza and Montalcino 

Private transfer is included in this tour as well, and will provide you with a licensed guide if requested. It can be customized to take you to either Montalcino or Montepulciano. You will have lunch and wine here, with a chance to taste the famous wine of the town called Vino Nobile di Montepulciano .

Tuscany Wine And Cheese Tour In Pienza & Montepulciano

Pienza and Montalcino | Private

Travel from Rome to Assisi

Another town of enormous cultural importance , with significant relevance from a religious point of view is Assisi. It is the birthplace of St. Francis, one of the Saints in Christian history, and so many view visiting Assisi as performing a pilgrimage of sorts.

Location: Assisi is in the Umbria region and is approximately 131 km from Rome.

How to get there: It takes 2-2.5 hours by car, and 2-3 hours by train depending on the type you book.

What to do:

• Basilica of St. Francis: Explore this gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage site which is the peak highlight of the town, nestled at the edge of a lookout point. The pearly medieval structure looks beautiful amidst its backdrop at all times of the day and the interior includes frescoes from renowned Italian artists Giotto di Bondone and Cimabue.
• Oratory of St. Francis: Close to the basilica you can find the sacred chapel, where St. Francis and his companions would pray. The frescoes inside depict scenes from his life.
• Rocca Maggiore: A grand medieval fortress, Rocca Maggiore serves as the highest point in Assisi for a panoramic view of the Umbrian region. Oftentimes you can find cultural exhibitions of sorts taking place inside the fort, but visitors are mainly attracted by the viewpoint and the opportunity to wander around  the prominent, rising walls and towers.
• The central square: More medieval architecture can be found in and around the bustling town square. Experience the lifestyle of the locals and indulge in dishes specific to the region.

Tour to take: Assisi and the Gentle Hills of Umbria

Assisi and the Gentle Hills of Umbria | Private

Travel from Rome to Naples

Moving toward the south of Italy, one of the best places outside of Rome to visit is Naples. With a sunny and warm disposition that is very particular to the city, Naples is the first eye-opener into a completely different impression of Italian life- nevertheless beautiful and energetic!

Location: Naples lies southeast of Rome by approximately 190 km.

How to get there: Naples makes one of the most popular day trips from Rome to experience a taste of the south, with it being so close by and easy to reach. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car and the high speed train that leaves hourly from Rome takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Eat Neapolitan pizza: This is the only trip on this list that will mention food right at the top of the activity list. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and gives you an entirely new outlook on it than what Rome can offer you. There are a number of authentic pizzerias that will provide you with the pizza feast of your lifetime!
• Centro Storico of Naples: Explore the historic center of Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is wonderfully characteristic and crammed with history of one of the oldest inhabited cities of the world.
• Naples National Archeological Museum: Visit the museum to see exhibits and artifacts from Pompeii and Hernaculem, Greek and Roman sculptures and more.
• Naples Underground and its catacombs: The ancient passageways and underground systems that lie just below the surface of Naples are endlessly fascinating, telling stories about World War II and the Roman and Greek periods. There are also several ancient catacombs and burial sites to discover.
• Castel dell’Ovo: With the local folklore of a magic egg having been placed inside the castle by a Roman poet, the castle received its name which practically translates to ‘Egg Castle’. It stands on the seafront and is an iconic landmark to visit.
• The Lungomare: The aforementioned seafront is also called the Lungomare. Taking a stroll across it gives you a magnificent view of various sights including the infamous Mount Vesuvius volcano.
• Naples street food : Yes, we might as well end this list with a food-related activity as well! Some spectacular, mouth-watering street food can be found in Naples, from pocket-sized pizza fritta to the sweet, seahshell-shaped sfogliatella.

Tour to take : Authentic Naples Walking Tour 

Authentic Naples Walking Tour | Private

Travel from Rome to Pompeii and Amalfi

History lovers: Go to Pompeii.

For blissful romance: Cruise the sun-kissed coast of the Amalfi!

The ancient city of Pompeii is both destroyed and preserved through ashy remains after the disastrous volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It is one of the most fascinating ancient civilizations to discover in the world of archaeology, holding eery remnants of the past as you walk within the site.

On the other hand, the Amalfi coast beckons everyone through the sheer beauty of its turquoise waters, and the terraced, colorful towns that dot it in the midst of jagged and green cliffs and rock formations. This is one of the most globally romanticized areas of Italy.

Location: Both Pompeii and Amalfi coast are located to the southwest of Rome, located very close to each other and about 212 km away.

How to get there: 

This particular excursion is very popular to do by car. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to get to Pompeii by car. From Rome to Amalfi, the journey can be expected to be around 3.5-4 hours.

By train you first need to get to Naples which is approximately 1.5 hours as well, and then take another train to reach Pompeii. To go to Amalfi you would first have to take a 30-40 minute train to Sorrento, and then transfer by taking a bus. There are no direct trains to the Amalfi coast.

• Pompeii Archaeological site: This UNESCO World Heritage site has several remains of architectural structures such as the Temple of Apollo, the Lupanar brothel, the amphitheater of Pompeii, the House of the Faun and much more. It also has many beautiful frescoes and artworks, depicting the life and philosophies of the ancient Romans.
• Pompeii Antiquarium: A visit to the antiquarium layers on the histories of what you will learn at the archaeologial site, with many artifacts on display.
• Garden of the Fugitives: In what once used to be a garden, you will find the provoking plaster casts of a group of people who tried to seek refuge from the eruption..and ultimately, lost.
• Sorrento: Sorrento is sometimes considered to be the gateway into the Amalfi coast. The stunning town is best known for its lemon trees and the limoncello liqueur, one of the many things made from all those lemons!
• Positano: This postcard worthy town is probably the most famous destination along the coast, known for its colorful buildings on a cliff, terracing down to the main beach of the town called Spiaggia Grande .
• Ravello: This hillside town is known for two ravishing villas called Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, as well as for its colorful hand-painted ceramics.
• Amalfi town: Lastly, the scenic Amalfi town is characterized by its many staircases and alleys going up the hillside, the cathedral Duomo di Amalfi, more lemons, and the beautiful Cloister of Paradise, with Arab-Norman architectural influences.

Tour to take: Pompeii and Amalfi Coast Tour from Rome

What if you wanted to include both of these destinations into your one-day itinerary? It may seem impossible, but you can be drenched in Pompeii’s history and soak in the beauty of the Amalfi coast subsequently through a completely customizable tour. With transport being taken care of for each leg of the journey, you can choose where you want to be whisked off to, and what sites you would like an expert guide for.

Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Tour from Rome | Private

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Four Really Easy Day Trips From Rome By Train 

by Sarah Wilson | Nov 30, 2021 | Europe , Italy | 2 comments

Last Updated on: 21st March 2024, 12:43 am

Rome is a fabulous city to visit. In fact, it’s an all-time favourite of mine. But sometimes, exploring a large metropolis can get a bit too much, and it’s nice to escape the city for a little bit. Here are four really easy to do day trips from Rome by train, ranging from just thirty minutes travelling time to a little over an hour. 

1 Ostia Antica. 

Ostia Antica is just a thirty-minute train trip from Rome.

Ostia Antica often referred to as ‘the poor man’s Pompeii’, is a really easy to do day trip from Rome by train. It might not be quite as well preserved as Pompeii, but it’s a lot closer to Rome, definitely worth a visit and a lot less crowded than both Pompeii and Herculaneum . 

Once the busy port city of Ancient Rome, the site of Ostia Antica is spread over 10,000 acres, so it is not a bad idea to arm yourself with an audioguide or map of the ruins before setting off. You can pick one up at the entrance. Did I do that? Of course not. Did I get lost? Absolutely! 

With or without a map, you will eventually find yourself in the Forum, the main square, which still has the remains of the Capitolium temple. 

Keep an eye out for the mosaics, the old shops and villas, even the ancient Roman latrines. It’s fun to let your imagination go wild as you picture life 2000 years ago.

The ancient brick theatre of Ostia is still used these days for summer concerts and performances.

Would I Recommend Ostia Antica?

Yes, it was fun. I loved getting lost amongst the ruins. I was there in August, and there was hardly anyone else around. It’s an easy half-day outing from Rome. Afterwards, before heading back to Roma, wander around the nearby town or even head to the nearby Ostia Beach. If you would prefer to have a local guide to show you around the site, check this half-day tour from Rome.

How Much Does It Cost To Visit Ostia Antica 

Adults 18 €uro

EU citizens between 18 and 25 years old – 2 Euro

Under 18’s free 

Every first Sunday of the month, it’s free to enter the Archaeological area of Ostia Antica, Imperial harbours of Claudius and Trajan, Museum of Roman ships, Necropolis of Portus, Julius II Castle.

By the entrance, you’ll find clean toilets and a vending machine selling water. There’s very little shade in the park, so if you haven’t brought any water with you, it’s a good idea to do so here. 

Opening Hours For Ostia Antica 

Open every day excepts Mondays,1 January, 1 May, and 25 December

From 25 October to the end of February 08:30 – 16:30 

March 08:30-17:15 

April to September 08.30-19:00

October 1-24 08.30-18:30 

The last entrance to the park is one hour before closing. 

Where To Eat At Ostia Antica 

In theory, there is a restaurant at Ostia Antica, but due to Covid restrictions, it was closed when I was there. 

I was going to head back to Rome for something to eat, but my stomach had other plans. ‘Eat now!’ it screamed. 

I came across the Arianna al Borghetto  just a five-minute walk from the main entrance to the park. 

I had a delicious Fettuccine Caserecce al Ragu for just €9. When you’re a solo female traveller dining alone in Italy, the waiters can be pretty flirtatious but in a harmless, fun way. When asked why does such a beautiful lady dine alone, I told him that my partner had recently passed away. 

‘Mamma mia!’ he declared. Nonna came out, slapped the waiter for ‘upsetting me’ and kept appearing with more food than I could eat, plus wine and dessert. I was even given fruit for the journey back to town. I love Italy!

How To Get To Ostia Antica From Rome 

First, ignore what Google Maps tells you. It wants to send you all over the place.

The easiest way to get there is to make your way to the Piramide Metro stop on Metro Line B, just four stops from Roma Termini Station in the direction of Laurentina. Then, follow the signs to the Roma-Lido line. Board the local train and get off at the stop Ostia Antica. Journey time 30 minutes.

On arrival, follow the signs to Ostia Antica or the other tourists. 

If you’re not keen on the idea of travelling independently to Ostia Antica and would rather know what you’re seeing, it’s also possible to arrange a tour out of Rome . 

2 Castel Gandolfo

Castel Gandolfo  is just a forty-five-minute train journey from Rome. 

Well, my day at Castel Gandolfo didn’t go quite to plan but was a lovely outing nevertheless. The town is known as the Pope’s City as its home to the Pope’s summer residence. So, I was looking forward to seeing the Papal Palace and its gardens, but it was closed! 

I had checked the website beforehand, which confirmed it was open. So I asked a local in my terrible Italian why was it closed, thinking maybe the Pope was in town. ‘Perché è, (because it is)’, he replied. Umm, not very helpful.

I later discovered that it was now only open at weekends when tourists are about. So please don’t believe what you read on their website! I had deliberately chosen to visit on a Friday because I wanted to avoid seeing other tourists. 

Anyway, it was lovely just walking around the pretty town. Cute piazzas, charming side streets and fabulous views looking down to the lake. 

Piazza della Libertà, the main square, is dotted with cafés and small shops selling souvenirs and local products.

Eventually, I spotted a table at a restaurant overlooking the lake with my name on it. I quickly checked online that the restaurant wasn’t one of those overpriced tourist traps- it wasn’t. Actually, the restaurant’s website  said it was closed Friday lunchtime. Obviously, the people of Castel Gandolfo are not very good at keeping their websites up to date.

So a change to my original plan, but I ended up having a lovely relaxing day just pottering about the streets, then enjoying a good old Roman pasta dish Cacio e Pepe, the original Mac and cheese. 

Where To Eat In Castel Gandolfo 

There are several restaurants in the main square and side streets, but as I couldn’t see the Pope’s place as planned, I thought, well, let’s aim for a decent lunch then with a view. 

And that’s how I found Ristorante Bucci . Gorgeous lakeside vistas and very reasonable prices considering the location. Think 14€ for a pasta dish with a fabulous view! 

How To Get To Castel Gandolfo 

Trains go from Roma Termini to Castel Gandolfo and take around 40 -45 minutes. Do allow enough time at Roma Termini station to buy tickets as those ticket machines can be temperamental. I bought a return ticket as was told you couldn’t buy train tickets at the Castel Gandolfo Station, but you can, but if you know you’re returning to Rome, you might as well get it in advance.

And don’t forget to validate your ticket before you board. Using the ticket to get through the platform barrier does not validate your ticket; who knew, eh? When in doubt, act dumb; that’s my secret go-to, as it comes naturally. Or use a train app like OMIO .

If you don’t fancy visiting Castel Gandolfo independently and risk not seeing the sites, there are plenty of tours on offer from Rome .  

3 Villa d’Este, Tivoli 

Tivoli is a forty minute to an hour train trip from Rome. It all depends on the time of day and train. 

Villa d’Este, Tivoli

The 16th century Villa d’Este  is famous for its terraced Italian Renaissance style garden. The villa and gardens are a UNESCO world heritage site.

Within the villa itself, most of the rooms have been restored. The detail and decoration of the artwork on the walls and ceilings within these rooms are impressive. 

Each room is filled with beautiful frescos. Notable rooms inside the villa include The Hall of Glory and The Hall of the Hunt. 

I was a little disappointed as I hoped to see the villa more as it was in the 16th century. The mansion is very much an art gallery. Yes, the art has been restored and was stunning, but it was hard to get a feel for what it was like to live there. Maybe that’s just me. 

However, most people come to the Villa d’Este to see the gardens.

Villa d’Este Gardens

The Villa d’Este Gardens are possibly the most well-known in Italy. 

The gardens are rather large, so you can easily spend a few hours exploring the various segmented areas. 

And there are a lot of fountains – 51 fountains. Some very flamboyant, others a mere trickle. Now, here’s the nerdy bit for those that like facts and figures – as well as 51 fountains, there are 64 waterfalls, 220 basins, 364 water jets, 398 spouts. All these are fed by 875 metres of canals and channels that work by the force of gravity and not pumps. Impressive, huh? 

What Else Is There To See In Tivoli

Other sites in Tivoli include Villa Adriana and Villa Gregoriana, but it was getting too hot that day for any more sightseeing, so will have to save those for another time. 

How Much Does It Cost To Visit Villa d’Este 

Opening hours for villa d’este.

Open daily except Monday mornings, 1 January and 25 December. 

Hours vary depending on the month. For up to date times, please check their website. 

Where To Eat In Tivoli

Close to Villa d’Este, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Most come with good reviews. I went for a €15 menu of the day that included an antipasto, first and second course, dessert, water and wine at the Trattoria da Gabriella. The house wine was awful, and the food was average at best- not really selling it, am I? The food not on the set menu looked pretty good, and the waitress was really lovely, but would I go back? Nah! 

How To Get To Tivoli

Trains leave Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina and take around 40 minutes to one hour. Be sure to get off at Tivoli Station and not Bagni di Tivoli otherwise; you’ll have a very long walk (and before you ask, no, I didn’t.) And don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding. Or, for convenience, use an app like OMIO.

From the train station, it’s a 15-minute walk to Villa d’Este. Follow the signs and other tourists. 

If you prefer a tour to Tivoli from Rome rather than travel independently, check these out. 

4 Orvieto 

It takes just over an hour to reach Orvieto from Rome by train.

The gorgeous Umbrian hill town of Orvieto was my favourite of all my day trips from Rome. Perched on top of a steep tufa hill, it’s a charming place to visit. I would have loved to have stayed a little longer here, but the reason I was choosing quick and easy day trips from Rome by train was because I was housesitting for two lovely cats. 

Fortunately, Orvieto is small enough that’s it’s easy to fit in all the main highlights in a day- such as the impressive Duomo, St Patrick’s Well, the fabulous countryside views, stroll the ancient streets, and sample the delicious local cuisine. 

There’s a more detailed post right here for more information on what to see and do in this lovely town. 

Where To Eat In Orvieto 

There are quite a few restaurants on the piazza by the Duomo. All nice for a drink and people watching, but for delicious food, you need to head into the back streets. 

I had a fantastic homemade pasta with truffles and a chocolate and caramel mousse at the Trattoria La Grotta . Just a very short walk from the Duomo, but down a side street. 

How To Get To Orvieto 

Trains depart from Rome Termini and take around an hour and a quarter to Orvieto Station. Immediately opposite the station is the funicular that takes you up to the old town. If you are not comfortable with travelling independently to Orvieto, it’s also possible to organise a tour from Rome.

If you enjoyed this article on easy to do day trips from Rome by train, please share it with your friends.

Love Italy?

Check out these posts for other amazing places to visit around Italy.  Beautiful Towns and Villages in Umbria

Is Genoa Worth Visiting?

Ortisei Italy – A Great Base For Exploring The Dolomites Exploring Orvieto – A Fabulous And Easy Day Trip From Rome By Train How To Spend One Full Day In Bologna Why You Should Visit Ferrara – An Easy Day Trip From Bologna Varenna- The Perfect Base For Exploring Lake Como Two Days In Verona How To Spend One Full Day (and a little bit) In Milan Discover Spello – A Beautiful Hill Town In Umbria Diary Of A Solo Traveller On A Viking Ocean Cruise From Barcelona To Rome  Top Tips For Visiting Pompeii

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Solo traveller, exploring the world one adventure at a time. Enthusiastic about trying new cuisines and uncovering hidden gems. Animal lover, often found house-sitting and making furry friends. Based in Malta, but always daydreaming about moving to Italy. Join me as I wander and discover the beauty of our world.

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Thank you Sarah for a wonderfully informative and friendly introduction to attractions nearby to Rome and easy to access. With a friend who has visited before, I’m going to Rome for the first time and very keen to take shortish excursions by train, so I found your personal experiences very interesting and useful, unlike much of the corporate blurb that’s foisted upon us. Again, thank you. I look forward to reading your future comments.

Thank you very much, I really appreciate your comments. Have a wonderful time exploring Rome.

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25+ Amazing Day Trips From Rome

Scoping out some day trips from Rome? Here’s my guide to the 25 best day trips from Rome. I give you an overview of each day trip destination and tips for getting there.

Rome is one of Europe’s most beautiful and popular cities. There are so many things to do in Rome, you could move in for a month and not see them all.

But sometimes you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Rome.

If so, Rome makes a splendid long term base for day trips to other must visit destinations in Italy. Rome is centrally located and well-connected to other towns and cities.

On a day trip, you can escape Rome’s adoring (and sometimes maddening) crowds. And you don’t have to switch accommodations every day to see a new place in Italy.

This guide covers all the best places to visit near Rome. It also gives you tips on how to get to these Rome day trip destinations by car or public transport. Usually the high speed train or is the best mode of transportation.

I also suggest some guided tours, if you’d rather save time on transport and have someone else plan the details.

Best Day Trips From Rome

Here are my picks for the 25 best day trips from Rome. The options are incredibly varied.

There’s something for everyone, from culture vultures to history buffs to nature lovers. You can choose from evocative ruins, picturesque medieval towns, UNESCO sites, and verdant garden getaways.

Many of these Rome day trip destinations are secret hidden gems in Italy. Others are among the most stunning l andmarks in Italy .

1. Hadrian’s Villa, Tivoli

Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana) in Tivoli lies just 20 miles east of Rome on the edge of the Sabine Hills. The villa is the perfect easy day trip from Rome, especially for archeology lovers and history buffs.

Hadrian’s Villa is an important archeological complex. It’s the largest and most spectacular villa of ancient Rome, three times the size of Pompeii. 

The villa is a testament to the power and glory of ancient Rome and the world’s most important leader, Emperor Hadrian.

The villa was designed by Hadrian himself. It comes complete with its magnificent edifices, beautiful mosaics, and ancient statuary.

Hadrian’s sprawling theme park is called a “villa.” But it’s more accurately a miniature Rome that covers nearly 300 acres.

It’s dotted with 30 large structures — palaces, libraries, baths, living quarters, dining pavilions, and sculpture gardens. 

Hadrian incorporated foreign landmarks and marvels of the classical world into Villa Adriana. It became a diorama of sorts of his vast empire.

Hadrian’s Villa is now an evocative ruin. The opulent accoutrements are long gone. Many were looted. But some ended up in the Vatican Museums .

Hadrian’s Villa became a UNESCO site in 1999. Archaeologists, architects, and historians have been working at Hadrian’s Villa for decades. 

It’s still only half excavated. So new discoveries are made all the time.

Here’s my complete guide to Hadrian’s Villa . I visited Hadrian’s Villa on an organized day tour from Rome , which I highly recommended, as it will make travel logistics easier.

Getting There:   Day Trip from Rome to Hadrian’s Villa

The easiest way to get to Tivoli on a day trip from Rome is by train. Direct trains leave regularly from either Roma Termini or Roma Tiburtina and take less than an hour.

From Tivoli train station, catch bus number 4 to get to Hadrian’s Villa. Alternatively, you can take the metro Line B from Rome to Ponte Mammolo and then catch the bus bound for Via Prenestina.

If you’re driving, it will take approximately 50 minutes.

2. Villa d’Este, Tivoli

The UNESCO-listed Villa d’Este in Tivoli is a must visit landmark in Italy . The villa is the lush and watery country estate and gardens of a Catholic cardinal.

Villa d’Este makes the perfect day trip escape from Rome. It’s just a half hour away. You can also combine it with a visit to Hadrian’s Villa.

The sumptuous late Renaissance estate is a playground of whimsy, topped with a frescoed villa. Built into a cliff, Villa d’Este’s terraced gardens are one of Europe’s most beautiful green spaces.

There are waterfall fountains, ornate staircases, spiky cypress trees, and the gentle murmur of water everywhere.

The villa itself is a bit of an empty shell, with the furnishings and decor long gone. But most of the vibrant frescos and painted ceilings remain.

Off the Central Room, a small loggia offers the first dramatic views of the main event — one of the world’s most beautiful landscaped gardens. A double stairway leads you down to this bucolic retreat.

Set over 35,000 square meters, the verdant gardens will blow you away. You’ll see thundering fountains, placid pools, grottos, waterfalls, and natural beauty. 

The 50 large fountains and 250 water jets are all gravity powered, a miracle of Renaissance plumbing. Statues of ancient deities complete the enchanting ensemble.

READ :  Complete Guide to visiting Villa d’Este

Getting There: Day Trip from Rome to Villa d’Este

If you have a car, Villa d’Este is less than an hour drive from Rome. You can also take a bus from Ponte Mammolo or the train via Roma Tiberutina. The bus is the faster choice.

If you are going solo, there’s a bus that connects Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa. But the easiest way to see these two spots in one day trip from Rome is to book a day tour like this one .

Medieval Orvieto is a popular day trip from Rome and perhaps my favorite. Beautiful Orvieto is the capitol of Umbria.

It’s set high above a volcanic outcropping and chock full of medieval buildings. Nothing much has changed in this rustic fairytale town in 500 years.

The main drag in Orvieto is the Corso Cavour. In the town center, the Torre del Moro, a 13th century civic landmark, towers above. An elevator and another 171 steps get you to the top where you’ll have panoramic views.

The hilltop town’s  piece de resistance  is its magnificent cathedral, a marvel of theatricality. Orvieto Cathedral is one of the  most beautiful and ancient churches in Italy .

Begun in 1290, Orvieto Cathedral took nearly 400 years to complete. The cathedral is a riveting ensemble of spires, spikes, golden mosaics, statuary, stained glass, and black and white striped marble. And that’s just the facade.

Inside, the Chapel of San Brizio boasts one of the Renaissance’s greatest fresco cycles by Luca Signorelli. The frescos depict the usual religious themes — temptation, damnation, and salvation. 

READ : Guide To the Most Beautiful Chapels in Italy

They’re a searing vision of the end of the world, executed with fiendish exuberance.  Michelangelo  came to inspect the chapel before beginning his own master work, the  Sistine Chapel .

Click here to book a 2 hour guided tour of Orvieto Cathedral. You can also book a guided tour of the cathedral and the town .

I took this tour and it was fantastic. The tour guide gave me a tutorial on all the chapel frescos,

Getting There: Day Trip from Rome to Orvieto

Frequent trains run between Rome and Orvieto from Rome Termini. Fast trains take about 50 minutes. Regional trains take about 90 minutes, but are much less expensive.

When you arrive at the station in Orvieto, cross the road to take the funicular up to the town. From the funicular drop off point, you can either walk into the town center or take a local bus.

If you’d prefer a guided tour, this is an excellent tour that takes you to both Orvieto and Assisi.

Ariccia is an artistic treasure in the Castelli Romani region, an area beloved by Romans. For centuries, Ariccia was a refuge for artists who came to these hills for inspiration.

Ariccia’s natural beauty captivated many wealthy Romans during the Renaissance. They were patrons to artists and architects such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the greatest sculptor of the Baroque era.

As a result, this small town is filled with architectural gems such as Palazzo Savelli Chigi, the church Santa Maria Assunta, and the Ponte di Ariccia. If you’re an art lover, Ariccia is a great day trip from Rome.

The Palazzo Chigi is an impressive Baroque palace. It was renovated by Bernini for the Chigi family. They were a papal dynasty who also owned Villa Farnesina in Rome.

You can only visit the palace and see its grand rooms on a guided tour. The opulent palace is loaded with Baroque paintings and sculptures.

It’s been a filming location for many famous films, including the Visconti masterpiece  The Leopard .

The Church of Santa Maria Assunta was designed by Bernini . It was one his last works, inspired by Rome’s  Pantheon .

Foodies will like Ariccia for its porchetta (roasted pork) and Romanello wine.

Getting There: Day Trip from Rome to Ariccia

It’s a 30 minute drive from Rome to Ariccia. You could also take a taxi in the same amount of time. By train, it’s less than an hour from Rome Termini.

5. Ostia Antica

Founded in 4th century BC, Ostia Antica is an ancient harbor town about 40 minutes outside Rome. It’s a pretty adorable town too, with warm orange stone buildings. 

In ancient Rome, Ostia served as a naval base. Later, it became important commercially.

The town was home to a cosmopolitan population of rich business men and wily merchants. This was where food and grain supplies arrived to feed Roman citizens.

There are some impressive preserved ruins. It’s similar to Pompeii — the excavation of an entire ancient city.

You get to wander around the ancient town at will. Along the way, you’ll see a necropolis, an amphitheater, ancient temples and gates, the Baths of Neptune, statues, mosaic floors, and the forum.

The mosaics were used to inform illiterate Romans about the purpose of a given building — tavern, baths, brothel, etc.

Before exploring the ruins, consider stopping in for a tour of the Castello della Rovere. It was built by Pope Julius II when he was still a cardinal. There are some faded frescos by Michelangelo’s pupil Baldassare Peruzzi.

Getting There:   Day Trip from Rome to Ostia Antica

Ostia Antica is easily accessible on a day trip from Rome by public transport. Take the Roma-Lido train from Roma Porta San Paolo station.

You’ll arrive in Ostia Antica in 40 minutes. You can drive there in 40 minutes as well.

If you’d like a guided tour of this magnificent ruin, you can book this half day tour to Ostica Antica from Rome. Or, once you arrive, you can take this local tour with an archaeologist to really get the full scoop.

6. Castel Gandolfo 

Castel Gandolfo is one of easiest day trips from Rome. It’s also one of the most picturesque and bucolic escapes from the capital’s chaos.

The town is set amid the Alban Hills, with lush wooded hillsides. It looks out over the tranquil Lake Albano.

For centuries, the town has been home to the the pope’s summer palace. The Pontifical Villas cover almost 136 acres (more than Vatican City ).

You may remember the palace and its magnificent gardens from the Netflix movie The Two Popes .

The 17th century Apostolic Palace is a sight to behold. Inside, it’s ornate and richly decorated. Pope Francis opened the palace as a museum in 2014. There are seven rooms open for visitors to explore.

There are several stunning papal gardens, including the Barberini Gardens, Giardino della Madonna, and the Belvedere Gardens.

The Belvedere is the most famous. It even has an ancient Cryptoporticus built by Emperor Domitian.

There are some other landmarks in town to admire. In particular, Bernini designed the Church of San Tommaso da Villanova.

Getting There:   Day Trip fro Rome to Castle Gandolfo

There are daily trains to Castel Gandolfo. The trains takes approximately 38 to 45 minutes, depending on which train you take. Be sure to buy a return ticket because there are no ticket machines in the town.

You can also drive to the castle in 50 minutes. But parking near the castle is difficult.

7. Frascati

Frascati is the best known of the 13 Castelli Romani region towns. The town is set on a hill between rolling rows of grapevines.

Frascati used to be a popular summer escape for Roman nobility. The town has a pretty historic center. It comes complete with steep streets and views of Rome. Frascati is also know for its porchetta and wines.

Patricians built many villas in Frascati. Unfortunately, many of them were destroyed during World War II.

But the impressive Villa Aldobrandini still stands, overlooking the town. While a bit dilapidated, the villa is a famous example of early Italian Baroque architecture.

The villa is still privately owned by the Aldobrandini family. But the gardens are open to the public. You can tickets from the tourist office in Piazza Marconi.

The gardens are terraced and sculpture-filled. You can explore the pretty grotto-like Water Theater behind the villa. The views of Rome from the garden alone are worth the visit.

The garden is only open on weekdays and is closed at lunch time (1-3 pm). A trip to this tiny town is a great (and easy) activity to escape the summer heat of Rome.

Frascati is a lively town. There’s plenty of shops and night life. A popular spot is the “Bar of the Mirrors,” where your reflections are distorted and transformed.

Getting There:   Day Trip from Rome to Frascati

Frascati is directly connected to Rome by regional train, making it easy to get to. It’s only a 30 minute ride.

You can also book a guided half day wine and food tour from Rome to Frascati . Or a half day tour that includes pasta making, wine, and dinner .

8. Tarquinia

It’s worth a taking a day trip from Rome to Tarquinia just to see the UNESCO-listed Necropolis of Tarquinia . It’s one of Italy’s most magnificent Etruscan sites.

In Tarquinia, you can find the distant past brought to life. The “city of the dead” is pre-Roman. It dates back to the 7th century B.C.

For 300 years, until 500 B.C., Tarquinia was the master of Rome and central Italy. Tarquinia boasts some of the best preserved Etruscan sites in the world.

Since 1489, nearly 6,000 tombs have been excavated. The most important tombs are the Tomb of the Shields, the Tomb of the Lioness, and the Tomb of the Warrior.

There are 140 fantastic large scale wall frescos behind plexiglass. Press a button to light them up. The necropolis was popular with Roman artists. Raphael and Michelangelo ventured there to study the frescos.

The medieval town of Tarquinia is itself quite charming, sprawling on a hill overlooking the sea. You can visit the National Museum of Tarquinia .

It’s housed in the Palazzo Vitelleschi. The Gothic-Renaissance palace is a masterpiece of architecture.

At the Piazza del Duomo you can admire the town’s Cathedral of Santa Margherita. The Romanesque Church of St. Francis also deserves a visit.

Getting There: Day Trip from Rome to Tarquinia

Tarquinia is fairly easy day trip from Rome. It’s 60 miles northwest of Rome.

It’s a 1:10 drive by car. But you can also take the train from Roma S. Pietro station. The ride is a speedy 55 minutes.

You can also book a guided day tour from Rome .

9. Sperlonga

After the quick pace of Rome, perhaps you feel like hitting the beach. If so, day trip from Rome to Sperlonga.

Sperlonga is an extremely pretty “do nothing” beach town. It’s about 80 miles south of Rome in Italy’s Lazio region. Most Americans haven’t heard of it. But the locals love it.

The old town is a whitewashed warren of passageways and staircases. You’ll find cafes and shops, decked out in flowers. There’s a view of the broad sandy beaches from a piazza at the very top.

The first summer tourist to Sperlonga may have been the Roman Emperor Tiberius. He built the grandiose Villa of Tiberius .

Ruins of the villa weren’t discovered until 1957, when the Italian government was building a highway.

Among the ruins was a grotto with colossal statuary. Most of it dedicated to the Greek hero Ulysses. A connected museum now holds the ancient sculptures.

Tiberius and his court likely enjoyed the natural cool of the grotto cave. You can find the ruins at the far end of Sperlonga’s Levante Beach.

You can also hike up to the Truglia Tower. This medieval tower was built in the 17th century to protect Sperlonga from pirate attacks.

The tower stands out like a strange, geometric sentinel atop a hill overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. The vantage point offers spectacular views of the sea and beaches below.

Getting There: Day Trip from Rome to Sperlonga

Sperlonga is one hour south of Rome by car. Trains for Sperlonga depart from Rome Termini.

The train drops you at the train station in the village of Fondi. From there, you take a bus to Sperlonga.

10. Florence

Florence is one of my favorite towns in Italy. It’s an overwhelmingly beautiful city that really deserves multiple days.

But, if you’re pressed for time, it’s certainly possible to visit Florence as a day trip from Rome.

Florence is nicknamed the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” With the best Medieval and Renaissance art in Europe, Florence is a veritable art lovers paradise.

Florence’s entire city center is a designated UNESCO site. There are scads of  must visit attractions in Florence .

You have your choice of frescoed churches,  Medici palaces , majestic cathedrals, elegant piazzas, and world class museums. You can tread on the same flagstones as Leonardo, Dante, and Galileo.

READ :  3 Day Itinerary for Florence

Florence Cathedral is the most prominent landmark in Florence. It was built over 172 years, beginning in 1296. 

Florence Cathedral is Gothic in style, but not in the light and elegant way you think of Paris’ Notre Dame. It’s made of brown sandstone and beautifully frosted with pink, green, and white marble.

You may want to book a  guided tour of the Duomo  itself. You can also book a  guided tour of the Duomo that includes access to the dome and secret terraces   that you wouldn’t see on a regular visit.

Spend some time lingering in the  Piazza della Signoria , Florence’s free outdoor sculpture gallery.

Head inside the  Palazzo Vecchio , former home of the Medici dynasty , and admire the frescos by Giorgio Vasari .

You can’t leave Florence without visiting the  Uffizi Gallery . Click here to book a timed entrance ticket.

The Uffizi is a bastion of Renaissance art. The museum houses one of the world’s most famous paintings,  Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli .

If you’re a real art lover, plan to see Michelangelo’s iconic  David  in the Galleria dell’Accademia and the sculptures of the  Bargello Museum .

Or, if you like to travel with a theme, you can follow  the Michelangelo trail in Florence .

Getting There:   Day Trip from Rome to Florence

For a Rome to Florence day trip, take the high speed train from Roma Termini station to Florence. It takes less than 1.5 hours.

Florence is an eminently walkable city.

But to avoid hassle and make the most of your one day in Florence , you might consider going with  a guided tour . Otherwise, at a minimum, you’ll want to have a skip the line ticket for the Uffizi and it’s absolutely essential to pre-book a  ticket to climb Brunelleschi’s dome .

11. Pompeii

One of Italy’s most fascinating destinations is the ancient buried city of Pompeii . There’s really nothing quite like it in the world.

Pompeii is Rome’s most famous archaeological site, a living museum. In 79 A.D., Mount Vesuvius erupted and buried the city in 60 feet of ash. 

The city was entombed and preserved for many centuries. Beginning in 1748, archaeologists began painstakingly excavating the ruins.

The ruins are a remarkable evocation of everyday Roman life. You can get a vicarious thrill sharing living space with ancient Romans. 

In the complex, you’ll find roman baths, a roman forum, brothels, basilicas, a grand theater, and the oldest Roman amphitheater in the world. The most important monuments are the Temple of Apollo, the city bathhouse, and the villas of the nobility.

The Villa of the Mysteries is probably the most important home. It contains one of the most famous frescos from all of Ancient Rome, The Mysteries of Dionyus , which covers three walls.

Pompeii is the gift that keeps on giving. New finds are made all the time, including recently unveiled frescos in the House of the Vettii and other spots. When you’re done exploring the ruins, head to a vineyard or restaurant on the nearby Mount Vesuvius.

Click here to book an entrance ticket for Pompeii.

Getting There:   Rome Day Trip to Pompeii

Pompeii is a hugely popular day trip from Rome. To get there, it’s easiest to book a tour. I recently did this tour and really enjoyed it. You can also a book a tour that includes wine tasting and lunch .

Otherwise, you’ll want to make the 2 hour long journey by train, which requires you to change through Naples.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to visiting Pompeii .

Vibrant Naples is the birthplace of pizza. The old town is chaotic, brash, colorful, and very authentically Italian.

Naples is a big sprawling city that’s slightly rough around the edges. Most of its attractions are in the historic center. Naples boasts stunning churches, beautiful palaces, great art, and some epic foodie eateries.

Naple’s top attraction is the Naples National Archaeological Museum . If you’re a history buff, it’s worth a day trip from Rome just to see this great world class museum.

The museum houses Greco-Roman artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum. These are the two towns that were buried by ash, and hence preserved, when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. You will also find ancient statuary in the Farnese Collection.

Click here to book a ticket and guided tour to the museum.

Located in the stunning pink Capodimonte Palace, the Capodimonte Museum is another must visit attraction in Naples. It’s one of Italy’s best museums .

It houses a collection of fine and decorative arts, mostly from Naples. The core of its collection was compiled by the powerful Farnese and Bourbon families.

The Capodimonte Museum features works by Caravaggio , Masaccio , Titian, Raphael, El Greco, Bruegel, and Sebastiano del Piombo.

Click here to book an entrance ticket.

The Piazza del Plebiscito is the main square in Naples. It’s flanked with important historic buildings. These include the Royal Palace, the Royal Basilica, and Salerno Palace. The colonnade mimics St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City.

The beautiful San Francesco di Paola steals the show. You can tell it was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome . The bright airy interior is decorated in white marble, with an altar that has gorgeous lapis lazuli inlay.

If you’re on the UNESCO trail in Europe , you may want to carve out time for he incredible  Palace of Caserta . It’s a UNESCO site just 30 minutes north of Naples.

The palace was built by King Charles VII of the House of Bourbon. It was used as the main residence of the kings of Naples.

With over 1200 rooms, the palace was one of the largest palaces in 18th century Europe. The sprawling palace complex was built on a grid with four outer wings.

You enter via the Grand Staircase of Honor, surrounded by marble. The palace is lavish inside, especially the gold filled throne room.

Getting There:   Rome Day Trip to Naples

Getting to Naples from Rome is easy, if you go by train. The high speed trains leave from Rome Termini, making the journey in 1:10.

If you go by car, the journey takes over twice as long. So if you really want to day trip from Rome to Naples, you should take the train.

You can also book a private transfer from Rome to Naples . Or go on a small group guided tour .

13. Sorrrento

Sorrento is the quintessential Italian resort town. It lies on the Amalfi Coast, facing out to the Bay of Naples.

Wedged on a ledge over the sea, the cliff top town of Sorrento can be done as a day trip from Rome. If you’re staying longer than a day, Sorrento makes a perfect springboard for visiting the Amalfi Coast.

Start your tour of Sorrento on Piazza Torquato Tasso. Named after an Italian poet, this is the center of life in Sorrento.

Tasso’s statue sits in the Piazza Sant’Antonio. But the hidden back lanes of Sorrento are the most tantalizing. They’re filled with shops selling gelato, limoncello, prosecco, leather goods, and more.

If you’re ready to sit down and sip, the Hotel Belair Sorrento offers stunning views overlooking Sorrento and Mount Vesuvius. There’s also good views from La Pergola Bar a Champagne.

If you need some beach time, head to Marina Grande Beach. Sorrento is also famous for its lemons and filled with lemon groves.

Getting There:   Rome Day Trip to Sorrento

To get to Sorrento, you will need to take the train to Naples. Be sure to book in advance as the high speed trains can sell out.

There, you will need to transfer to the Napoli Garibaldi station next door and purchase a ticket for the local  Circumvesuviana train  for the remainder of the journey to Sorrento.

Total travel time is around two hours. If you’d like to see more of this region during the day then  a guided tour  is a better way to go.

14. Viterbo

Underrated Viterbo is a beautiful medieval gem just an hour from Rome. Viterbo was at its zenith in the 13th century, when it overshadowed Rome itself as a center for papal power.

The main reason to visit Viterbo on a day trip from Rome is to admire the beautifully intact medieval town center.

Viterbo is almost entirely surrounded by incredibly well kept walls. The San Pellgrino district is one of the best preserved neighborhoods in Italy.

In the 13th century, Viterbo was the seat of the Pope for 24 years. The Gothic Palazzo Papale was built in the 13th century as a residence for popes looking to get away from Rome.

At the time, Rome was a place of plague and rampaging factions of rival barons. The escape palace was the site of the first ever conclave to elect a new pope.

The interior isn’t always open. But you can climb the stairs to admire what was once the loggia.

Viterbo is also a spa town. You can have a local volcanic mud bath or steam in an ancient cave at Terme dei Papi .

For sustenance, you can grab lunch at Cantina Palazzo dei Merchant. The casual eatery shares a kitchen with one of the best wine cellars in Italy, Enoteca la Torre.

Getting There:   Rome Day Trip to Viterbo

Viterbo isn’t well enough known yet for there to be day tours from Rome. Instead, you’ll need to take one of the hourly trains. They reach Viterbo in around 1:40. It’s a 1:15 drive by car.

15 . Civita di Bagnoregio

Just 30 minutes from Viterbo is Civita di Bagnoregio. It’s a magical, almost surreal, hill town. You could do both towns on a day trip from Rome.

The Etruscans founded Civita di Bagnoregio over 2500 years ago. It’s largely unaltered ever since.

The isolated and picturesque Civita teeters on a hilltop in a vast canyon, north of Rome. The topography scares away most tourists.

To access this little hamlet, you’ll have to ditch your car, walk across an elevated and steep 300 meter pedestrian bridge, and enter via a massive 12th century stone arch called the Porta Santa Maria.

What could be more dreamy and surreal?

Once inside, the charms of Civita are subtle. There’s nothing special to do but wander around in this enchanting rural village.

Civita is just unadulterated old world Italy. The warm stone walls glow in the sunshine. Have a seat on the steps of San Donato Church, be suspended in time, and admire the flowerpots.

Here’s my complete guide to Civita di Bagnoregio .

Getting There: Day Trip from Rome to Civita

It’s easiest to drive to Civita. The drive takes 1:45. You park in the adjacent town of Bagnoregio. You’ll see signs for the parking lot.

If you’re using public transport, you can take the train from Rome to Orvieto. In Orvieto, you can buy a ticket for the Cotral bus that goes to Civita. However, bus service isn’t exactly plentiful in this remote area.

Located in Umbria, the saintly and stunning hill town of Assisi is a destination for art lovers. Assisi was the home and final resting place of St. Francis. 

Hence, it’s a pilgrimage destination. In fact, the 13th century Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is one of Italy’s best known churches and a landmark UNESCO site.

There are two parts to the church — the lower church (for pilgrims) and the upper church (for clergy). The frescos in the lower church mark the pivotal transition in art history from the Gothic period to the early Renaissance era. 

The highlight is the frescos attributed to Giotto in the Chapel of Santa Maria Maddalena. He reputedly painted a 28 panel cycle called  The Life of St. Francis , between 1297 and 1300.

That chapel also has a fresco cycle by Pietro Lorenzetti, with a haunting  Depostion .

The upper church houses paintings by Cimabue, the greatest Italian painter of the 13th century International Gothic style. Giotto was Cimabue’s protege.

For more info, here is my one day in Assisi itinerary and my guides to the best things to do in Assisi and my guide to the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi . But the town and this complex are so fascinating, you may want to book a guided tour .

Getting There:   Day Trip from Rome to Assisi

A high speed train ride from Roma Termini to Santa Maria degli Angeli takes about 1:45. It drops passengers off at the foot of the hill town Assisi. From there, you can opt to take a taxi or a bus.

You can also book full day guided tour from Rome to Assisi .

17. Montecassino Abbey

Montecassino Abbey is one of the most famous abbeys in the world. For a sacred place, the abbey has a rather bloody history of destruction and rebirth. The abbey has been invaded, sacked, burned, and bombed.

In 529, Saint Benedict built a monastery home for the monks from Subiaco. At the time, he was the patron saint of Europe.

In 577, Montecassino Abbey was destroyed by the Langobards. In 887, the Saracens attacked. The abbey was rebuilt again in 949.

In 1944, the abbey was the scene of a hugely divisive battle in WWII. In anticipation, the abbey moved its treasures to the Vatican and Castle Sant’Angelo . Then, it was bombed when the Allies mistakenly suspected that Germans were hiding there.

After WWI, a massive decade long project to restore and rebuild Montecassino began. The monks’ motto was “where it was, as it was.” The abbey is now a major destination in Italy for tourists, pilgrims and history buffs.

To visit, you need to book a guided tour in advance. In winter, the abbey is only open on Sundays.

You can visit the cloisters, an ornate church, library, crypt, museum, and war cemeteries. The museum houses magnificent paintings, mosaics, coins, manuscripts, and ancient books.

Getting There:   Rome Day Trip to Montecassino

If you’re traveling between Rome and Naples, the beautiful Abbey of Montecassino is the perfect stop. It’s a 2 hour drive from Rome.

High speed trains depart from Rome Termini and take approximately 60-79 minutes. A bus outside the train station deposits you at the top of the mountain. Or you take a taxi up.

18. Bracciano

Bracciano is located on the shores of the volcanic Lake Bracciano. It’s a lovely small medieval town. Piazza IV Novembre is the main square.

Bracciano used to be a simple fishing and farming village. But in the 15th century, the pope gifted the town to the powerful Orsini family. They built the local castle, now known as Odescalchi Castle .

This castle is one of the few Renaissance castles in Italy. You’ll find medieval interiors, artifacts, and period furniture. From the top, you’ll have beautiful views of Lake Bracciano.

Other attractions in Bracciano include the beautiful Santo Stefano Cathedral and Church of St. Liberato. The lake and nature reserve are a perfect place for a relaxing walk.

Getting There: Rome Day Trip to Bracciano

Trains to Bracciano leave roughly every half hour from various stations in Rome – Trastevere, Ostiense, San Pietro or Valle Aurelia. All trains stop in Bracciano en route to Viterbo.

Pisa ia a beautiful little town in Tuscany with a rich architectural heritage.Most travelers to Pisa understandably come for Pisa’s calling card — the famous and mysterious Leaning Tower of Pisa.

But Pisa is so much more than a one site “hit and run” town, especially for art and history lovers. The Field of Miracles is a true spectacle. It’s a simply splendid assemblage of Romanesque, Gothic, and Early Renaissance art and architecture. 

You can visit the Duomo, the Baptistery, the Monumental Cemetery, and several museums. You may want to book a guided walking tour to see all the attractions and get the historical backdrop.

Straddling the Arno River, the town of Pisa itself is a charming (if very small) town. There are pretty pretty piazzas, historic buildings, and museums.

Here’s my guide to the top attractions in Pisa and my tips for visiting Pisa .

Getting There: Rome Day Trip to Pisa

To get to Pisa, you will have to travel to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station and then change trains for Pisa. The overall journey will take you slightly more than two hours. 

Once there, you may want to book a local guided tour to get the most out of your day trip from Rome.

Some tours combine Pisa and Florence. If you just want to see the cathedral and the leaning tower, you can book that here .

20. Gardens of Ninfa

If nature beckons, day trip from Rome to the secret Gardens of Ninfa . The legendary garden is a noble family’s fairytale garden.

The gardens are immersed in nature and scattered with centuries old ruins. Though Rome is just an easy hour drive away, Ninfa feels like a remote, happily isolated world.

You park your car in a sunny olive grove, buy your ticket, and step through a stile onto a path of fine gravel. 

The park occupies a full 20 acres, of which 16 are open to the public. The crystalline river Ninfa, hardly more than a healthy stream, winds through the property.

The garden is said to be the world’s most romantic garden. It was created in 1921 by the Caetani family. It’s designed in the English garden style.

The garden features thousands of exotic plants and trees. The gardens are informal, with an impressionistic messy style.

As any fancy garden, the Ninfa Garden is never the same from one month to the next. Depending on the season, you’ll find a profusion of climbing roses or heavy wisteria vines.

To protect the gardens, access is limited. The garden is open from April through October on the first Saturday and the first Sunday after the first Saturday of each month, as well as the third Sunday in April, May and June. 

You can only visit via a guided tour.

If you’re day tripping from Rome, buy tickets in advance at the Fondazione Camillo Caetani .

Getting There: Rome Day Trip to Ninfa Gardens

Ninfa is 40 miles south of Rome. It’s best to drive. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi. There’s parking at the entrance to the gardens. Or, you can book a full day tour .

21. Palestrina

Palestrina is another good day trip from Rome for history buffs and ruin lusters. The entire town is built over and into the ruins of an enormous ancient temple.

Originally a significant Etruscan town, Palestrina became renowned for its massive Temple of Fortuna Primagenia. The shrine dates from the 2nd century B.C. In antiquity, this temple was one of the largest and most visited temples in Italy.

The temple ruins were only discovered after WWII bombings exposed the ancient foundations.

The former sanctuary of the temple was later transformed into the Palazzo Colonna-Barberini. The 17th century palace now houses the very fine Museo Archeologico . It’s situated at the highest point of the town and is hard to miss.

It’s worth a visit for the museum alone. It houses a large and well-labeled collection of Etruscan bronzes, terra cotta statuary, pottery, and some Roman artifacts. The star of the show is a 1st century B.C. mosaic representing the river Nile in flood.

Getting There: Rome Day Trip to Palestrina

By car, it’s a 40 minute drive from Rome to Palestrina. Buses leave every four hours from Termini Station in Rome.

22. Bolsena

Bolsena is a pretty hidden gem town on Lake Bolsena. Bolsena is a town where it’s possible to enjoy a wide range of activities, depending on your interest.

Set on Italy’s largest volcanic lake, Bolsena has a relaxing and romantic quality. The town is secluded and close to nature. You can hike, swim, or just relax.

Bolsena is also an ancient Etruscan settlement. It’s home to a large necropolis with tombs and funerary ornaments, which attracts history buffs and archaeologists.

The historic center is picture perfect. Bolsena’s main monument is the Cathedral of St. Cristina. It’s dedicated to an 11 year old girl who was martyred during the reign of Roman emperor Diocletian. 

You can also visit the Castello Monaldeschi. The castle was built during the 12th and 14th centuries.

It now houses the Lake Bolsena Museum. The museum gives you an overview of the region’s history.

Getting There: Rome Day Trip to Bolzano

Both by car and high speed train, Bolsena is about 1:40 from Rome. If you’re driving, leave your car in the parking space in the central Piazza Matteotti.

23. Bologna

Nicknamed  La Grassa , or the Big Fat, for its delicious food, Bologna just oozes medieval charm. Bologna is a bit of a hidden gem in Italy. But it shouldn’t be. 

Bologna is a historic city filled with striking architecture, beautiful piazzas, a swathe of palaces and towers, and gourmet restaurants.

Bologna’s must visit attractions are found in the city’s main square, Piazza Maggiore. You’ll be greeted by a huge statue of Neptune atop a fountain.

It was created by one of the great late Renaissance sculptors, Giambologna. He was an artist second only to Michelangelo in skill.

On one end of the piazza is the massive Basilica of San Petronio, honoring Bologna’s patron saint. On the other is the swishy Palazzo dei Rei Enzo.

Bologna’s most famous site and most beautiful church is the Santo Stefano Church . It’s a complex of seven churches, founded by Petronio atop a Roman temple. 

Legend holds that, when Dante was expelled from Florence for his politics, he wiled away time in the Romanesque cloisters.

When you’ve seen the main sites, head to the Piazza della Mercanzia. There, you’ll find Bologna’s leaning tower, Asinelli Tower.

You can climb 500 steps to the top for panoramic views. Then have a gelato or meal in the pretty piazza.

Then head to Bologna’s medieval Quadrilatero and meander through the medieval lanes filled with shops. Be sure to walk under the famous 666 Portico, the beautiful terra cotta arcades.

In Bologna, you may want to guided walking tour of the city or a guided food tour .

Getting There: Rome Day Trip to Bologna

Bologna is a bit of a hike from Rome. Your best bet is to take the high speed train, which clocks in at around 2 hours. Be sure to book online in advance.

You can also book a guided day tour from Rome , if that’s easier.

Gaeta is a pretty town that’s the perfect seaside day trip from Rome. Gaeta has a well-preserved medieval historic center and a beautiful natural setting overlooking there Tyrrhenian Sea.

Serapo beach is a fantastic gold sand beach, definitely one of the best beaches near Rome. Sant’Agostino Beach is a great place for surfing.

The 6th century Aragonese Castle is the most distinctive feature of the Gaeta skyline.

Gaeta is also known as the “city of 100 churches.” The Byzantine-style Church of St. Francesco is the most stunning one. Geata’s duomo has some beautiful art inside and an elegant Norman bell tower.

Gaeta is also home to Mount Orlando. If you hike up, you can explore the Sanctuary of the Split Mountain and a famous grotto. You’ll have stunning views of the Mediterranean. There’s an entrance to the park on Serapo Beach.

Getting There: Rome Day Trip to Gaeta

Gaeta is located halfway between Rome and Naples and is well connected by the road network and public transport. Trains take about 1:40. You may want to book a guided walking tour for your visit.

25. Sacred Park of Bomarzo

The Sacred Park of Bomarzo, located in the Lazio region of Italy, is a one-of-a-kind garden that offers a truly unique experience. More commonly referred to as the Park of Monsters, it was commissioned by Pier Francesco Orsini, an Italian nobleman from the 16th century.

The main sculptures in the park, which number around 30, were created by the architect and sculptor Pirro Ligorio. Ligorio also played a role in the design of the renowned Villa d’Este .

These sculptures portray mythical creatures, monsters, and other surreal figures and are interspersed throughout a natural landscape of hills, trees, and flowers. Some of the most famous sculptures include a giant elephant with an obelisk on its back, a dragon, a massive turtle, and a house with tilted walls.

The park was designed to inspire wonder and contemplation. It’s a must-visit Rome day trip anyone interested in art, history, or the bizarre and unconventional. It’s truly an unforgettable hidden gem in Italy that shouldn’t be missed.

Getting There: Rome Day Trip To Sacred Park of Bomarzo

You can get to the park by car taking the A1 highway. The journey takes about an hour.

Alternatively, you can take a train from Rome’s Termini Station to Orte and then hop on a local bus to Bomarzo. You can also book a guided day tour from Rome .

26. Vatican City

Last but certainly not least, I end with the easiest day trip from Rome, Vatican City. The Vatican isn’t just a walled city. It’s home to one of the world’s greatest art collections, housed in former wings of the Vatican Palace. 

The  Vatican Museums  are one of the world’s most visited sites. They attract millions of visitors annually. The works in the Vatican are invaluable crowning glories of Western art.

A museum path leads you through the long corridors and wings of the Vatican Museums.

Most of the fine art, as opposed to decorative art, is in the  Vatican Pinacoteca  (painting gallery), the Pio-Clementine Museum (sculpture gallery), the  Raphael Rooms , the Borgia Apartments, and the Sistine Chapel.

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescos  are the undisputed highlight of a visit to the Vatican. They’re among the most famous paintings in the history of art. 

20,000 people visit daily to cast their eyes upward to the glorious ceiling. Michelangelo spent 4 years toiling away on the 9 ceiling panels.

They depict scenes from Genesis and seem to open up the chapel to heaven.

While in Vatican City, you also have to visit St. Peter’s Basilica . It’s the most famous church in Christendom.

The basilica is the burial place of Saint Peter and past popes. This is where you’ll find the famous Bernini Baldachin canopy and Michelangelo’s tragically beautiful  Pieta .

Designed by Bramante, Raphael, and Michelangelo, the basilica is a true Renaissance masterpiece.

It may be the most ornate space you’ve ever stepped foot inside. The basilica showcases an intense visual array of precious treasures and grandiose decoration. Think gold and marble everywhere.

The basilica is a treasure trove of Bernini sculptures. You can also climb the dome. As a reward, you’ll have the iconic view of St. Peter’s Square and a panoramic view of Rome. 

Here’s my guide to spending one day in Vatican City . You can pre-book your ticket here .

If it’s your first time visiting the Vatican, you will probably want to book a guided tour , which lasts between 2-3 hours. Last time I visited, I took a guided tour and then went back on my own to see the rest.

Getting There : You can walk right into Vatican City. Or take a taxi, if you’re in a hurry.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best day trips from Rome. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources:

• 3 days in Rome itinerary
• 5 days in Rome itinerary
• 10 day itinerary for Tuscany
• 10 day itinerary for Italy’s classic cites
• 11 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 1 0 day itinerary from Milan to Rome
• 1 week itinerary from Venice to Milan
• 30 beautiful towns in Italy
• 100+ Italy bucket list experiences
• Tips for visiting Italy
• Historic landmarks in Italy
• 20 beautiful churches in Italy

If you’d like to day trip from Rome, pin it for later.

4 thoughts on “25+ Amazing Day Trips From Rome”

Hello! I just read your article on “Day Trips from Rome,” and I must say, it’s a fantastic guide for exploring the captivating destinations surrounding the Eternal City. Your selection of day trips offers a diverse range of experiences, from ancient ruins to picturesque towns.

I appreciate how you provided detailed information about each day trip, including the highlights, activities, and practical tips. It’s evident that you have a deep knowledge of the region and want your readers to have the best possible experience during their day trips from Rome.

The photographs you included are absolutely stunning and give a visual glimpse of the beauty and allure of each destination. They truly complement your writing and make me want to pack my bags and explore these places right away.

I also like how you’ve considered different interests and preferences in your selection of day trips. Whether someone is a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s a day trip that caters to their passions.

Thank you for sharing these amazing day trip ideas with us. Your article is a valuable resource for anyone visiting Rome and looking to venture beyond the city to discover the hidden gems of Italy. Keep up the fantastic work on your blog, and I’m looking forward to more travel inspiration from you. Happy travels! Highly Recommended to all.

Thank you so much!

Your review and guide have given me the best info of all my searches of Italy. Thank you for all the links! Now I want to extend my stay at least another week in October!

Have you mapped out any of these trips? Right now I have three days of free time and would like to see as many as I can from your article.

I do love what you wrote and how you wrote it!!

Thank you Charmaine. I have’t mapped it out. But you can visit Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este on the same day.You could visit Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio on the same day. And then you could go to either Naples or Florence on the third day. Or Naples + Pompeii. Endless options. But those would be my favorite picks. Have fun!

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Last Updated on May 25, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

11 Best Day Trips from Rome

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on April 3, 2024

They don’t call Rome ‘The Eternal City’ for nothing – the Italian capital is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in Europe. It gave the world the Roman Empire and all the culture and infrastructure that came with it – roads, aqueducts, it’s all thanks to Rome! Then there was the Renaissance, making today’s Rome a global city known for its art and architecture. There’s a treasure trove of attractions on offer here.

Map of day trips from Rome

But there are also plenty of day trips to get involved with from this storied city. From seeing where Ancient Rome’s port city of Ostia once stood to the beautiful villas at Tivoli, you can even see Florence or the stunning island of Capri. Check out the following day trips from Rome .

Anyone interested in military history might want to visit Anzio, an ancient coastal city 52 km (32 miles) from Rome. Battles were being fought here as early as the fifth century BC. In more recent times, Allied forces launched their campaign to conquer Italy with an amphibious landing in January 1944. Photos of the landing and battle can be found at the Beachead Museum. Travelers may wish to visit the cemeteries where British and American troops are buried.

In-between battles, Anzio is a fishing port and ferry terminal to the Pontine Islands. The city is a good place to see old Roman villas or a Roman tower as well as WWII foxholes at Riserva Naturale di Tor Caldara. The aroma of seawater may lure visitors to the port where they can see the fishing fleet and eat the city‘s famous fish. Sun seekers can spend time on sandy beaches, including the popular Blue Bay.

Getting to Anzio

• Lying just an hour away from Rome by train, getting to Anzio by public transport couldn’t be easier. From Roma Termini, you simply need to hop on a direct train and sit back and watch the world pass by your window. Trains usually run once an hour, although, at peak travel times, they run as frequently as every half hour. Tickets can cost as little as three euros, and once you arrive at Anzio, you’ll find yourself just a ten-minute walk to the center of town and its beautiful port.
• If you rent a car, driving to Anzio from Rome isn’t a bad idea; you’ll pass some delightful scenery, and this journey too takes just over an hour. From the centre of Rome, head directly south on the SS148, which will take you through a wonderful nature reserve. At Aprilla, turn off onto the SS207 – from there, you’ll reach Anzio in no time at all. Another option is to follow the Via Cristoforo Colombo until you reach the glittering Mediterranean. From there, take the SP601 all the way down the coast to Anzio, with magnificent sea views accompanying you on your journey.

Gritty Naples is a city of superlatives. It is the third largest city in Italy . It was the most bombed Italian city in World War II. It has the largest historic city center in Europe, most appropriate since it is one of the longest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back 2800 years. With over 400 ancient churches, it is one of the most Catholic cities in the world.

Naples Cathedral is the main church; each September it honors the city’s patron saint, Saint Januarius, with a miracle: The saint’s dried blood becomes liquid when near his relics. The city’s main square, the Piazza del Plescito, is home to Italy’s oldest opera house.

Naples also is known for its many castles, including Castel Nuovo, a city landmark, and the 13th century Saint Elmo’s castle, built in the shape of a star. Naples has great museums such as Naples National Archaeological Museum with one of the biggest collections of Roman Empire artifacts.

Getting to Naples

• The most convenient and quickest way to travel between the two cities is undoubtedly by train; it can take as little as 75 minutes to get to Naples from Rome . This, however, is for the fast train and tickets can cost up to 60 euros. The slower trains are cheaper at around 20 euros a ticket, but these can take between two to three hours to arrive at Naples’ Centrale Station. It is a very well-serviced route, and at any time of day, there will be at least a couple of trains departing from Roma Termini railway station. Once in Naples, you’ll find yourself just a short walk from all the main sights that you’ll want to check out.

9. Castelli Romani

Unknowing travelers might think Castelli Romani referred to a single old Roman castle. They’d be wrong. Castelli Romani is a collection of 13 picturesque towns in the Alban Hills just a few miles south of Rome. Ancient Romans went there to escape the hustle and bustle of the city; modern Romans still follow that tradition. One of the towns is Castel Gandolfo, one of Italy’s most historic towns and the most popular of the Castelli Romani towns.

It also is the pope’s summer home; a former palace is now a museum. The region offers scenic caldera lakes and lush forests punctuated with vineyards. It is one of Italy’s top wine-growing regions. This is where Frascati, which can be white or red, comes from; for centuries it’s been a very popular wine among Romans. Don’t pass up a chance to drink Frascati where it’s made, the village of Frascati.

Getting to Castelli Romani

• Driving is the easiest way to visit the Castelli Romani, as they lie nestled amidst the Alban Hills and the only viable way to get from one to the other is by car. Castel Gandolfo, for instance, lies just 40 minutes away from the center of Rome. To get there, you merely need to stay on the SS7 heading southeast out of the city, which takes you directly there. From here, you can visit the beautiful vineyards and villages which lie around nearby Lake Nemi. Another option is to follow the SS215 out of Rome to the marvelous Frascati, which only takes half an hour. From there, you can head to any of the other nearby Castelli Romani.
• Famed for its wineries and vineyards, many visitors to Rome opt to take a guided tour of this region to learn more about the history and practice behind winemaking, as well as to sample some of the delicious wines. Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll visit the impressive centuries-old Principe Pallavicini estate, which is located amidst some absolutely stunning scenery full of olive groves and beautiful vineyards.

8. Ostia Antica

Located at the mouth of the River Tiber, Ostia was Rome’s seaport, but, due to silting and a drop in sea level, the site now lies 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the sea. It is famous for the ancient apartment buildings (insula) that are very well preserved.

You can explore these buildings to one story in height, with narrow stairways and corridors leading to small rooms. There are also the remains of more wealthy houses, such as the House of Cupid and Pysche, with very rich marble decorations.

Getting to Ostia Antica

• From the center of Rome, Ostia Antica makes for a very convenient day-trip; you can easily get there by public transport in less than an hour. At Roma Termini, you take a short metro journey to Piramide, where you then take a train in the direction of Cristoforo Colombo. Once you arrive in Ostia Antica, you’ll see signs pointing you to the magnificent ruins – it’s only a short walk to the entrance.
• Another option that is well worth checking out is to take a guided tour of the impressive site. With an expert guide on hand, you’ll come away having learned loads about Ostia Antica’s fabulous ruins. The walk takes you around all the main sights, such as the Forum, Amphitheater and Baths of Neptune.

7. Florence

Visitors will have to make some tough choices since only one day in this city isn’t long enough to see everything . A must-see is the Duomo, Florence’s cathedral that is about a half-hour walk from Santa Maria Novella train station. Comfortable walking shoes are a must since cobblestone streets are narrow and uneven.

The world-class Uffizi art gallery showcases the best Italian Renaissance artists Travelers can ogle the over-the-top wealth of the Medici family at the Pitti Palace or just wander the streets in the historic center seeking statuary, such as the replica of Michelangelo’s David (the original is at the Accademia museum). End the day nibbling a gelato cone and walking across the Ponte Vecchio over the Arno River.

Getting to Florence

• Although it may look quite far on the map, it can take a surprisingly short time to get to Florence by train from Rome . In fact, the journey is actually amongst the most popular in the whole of Italy, as both commuters and travelers make their way between the two every day. Consequently, it is a very well-serviced line; there are three or four trains per hour, so you’ll never find yourself waiting long. From Roma Termini, it can take as little as 90 minutes on the fast train, although these tickets are obviously more expensive than if you take the slow train. Once you arrive at Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, it is only a short walk to the gorgeous historic center.
• To make the most of your time in Florence, it’s not a bad idea to take a guided tour, as this will take you around many of the main sights in the city with minimum hassle. With stops at il Duomo, the Accademia Gallery, and Piazza Santa Croce included on the tour, you’ll certainly see as much of Florence as is possible in one day.

A trip from Rome to the lovely hill region of Umbria will bring you to the medieval town of Assisi where you can explore significant religious sites, Roman ruins and artistic beauty. The town’s main attraction is the Basilica of St. Francis, the eternal resting place of Italy’s patron saint.

Most of the cobblestone streets in town lead to this beautiful cathedral where you can admire its exquisite architecture and interior ceilings and walls that are embellished with stunning frescoes. Surrounding the basilica, you will discover medieval houses and shops that are well worth a look.

Other sites not to miss include Piazza del Comune, the town center, with its old clock tower, the Church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva with its Roman columns, and St. Claire’s Basilica, which offers scenic views of the valley below.

Getting to Assisi

• With regular trains running between Rome and Assisi, the medieval town can take less than two hours to reach. On the way, you’ll pass through some stunning scenery; there’s a reason it is known as Italy’s ‘green heart.’ While some trains take you directly to Assisi, most train journeys involve a transfer at Foligno. As it is a small station, however, it is a very stress-free and easy connection. Check the train timetable carefully before heading to Assisi, as the slower trains can take up to three hours to get there.
• While driving to Assisi takes roughly between two and three hours and is a lot more effort than taking the train, this does mean that you can stop off at any of the beautiful scenes that you come across. Heading northwards from Rome, take the E35 and E45 until you reach Orte, where you will turn off and head towards Terni before continuing along the SS3. Once past Foligno, simply follow the signs to Assisi.

While in the Umbria region, you might also want to visit the charming town of Orvieto situated majestically on a big chunk of volcanic rock called tuff. Its impressive cathedral, the Duomo, which is considered one of Italy’s finest with its stunning mosaics and frescoes, influenced Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel.

It would certainly be well worth the time to explore the city’s labyrinth of underground tunnels. Carved 3,000 years ago from volcanic rock by the Etruscans to provide escape routes for the nobility, these elaborate tunnels contain grandiose rooms, stairs, cisterns and quarries.

The city’s oldest church, San Giovenale, is also worth a visit as well as both the 14th century Albornoz Fortress and St. Patrick’s Well, which was uniquely designed to supply water for the city during war times.

Getting to Orvieto

• From Roma Termini, it usually takes about 75 minutes to reach Orvieto by train. Along the way, you pass through some lovely scenery, which makes the journey flash by. Trains aren’t super regular, however, so if you miss one, you may find yourself waiting an hour until the next one. Tickets are very cheap and can go for as little as eight euros.
• Another option is to take the car to Orvieto; it takes a similar amount of time as by train, although you do then have the luxury of stopping off at nearby Lago di Bolsena for a lakeside lunch. From Rome, you need to head north on the E35 and follow it for around an hour until you see signs to Orvieto.
• A popular option amongst visitors to Rome who are pressed for time is to take a guided tour to both Orvieto and Assisi, combining the two beautiful towns into one memorable day trip. This enables you to see a number of amazing sights – such as Orvieto Cathedral and the Convent of Santa Chiara – without having to spend two days away from all of Rome’s incredible attractions.

All it takes is a one-hour trip from Rome to the small town of Tivoli to experience two of the most spectacular sites in the Lazio region, Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este. Most tourists like to combine both of these villas into one instead of two day trips from Rome.

A history lover’s paradise, Hadrian’s Villa features an impressive, sprawling complex of 30 ancient Roman structures that were built during the second century by the Emperor Hadrian as a retreat from the busy capital of Rome.

Here, visitors can enjoy a glimpse into the lavishness of ancient Rome when you walk among the 250 acres of marble pavements, palaces, theaters, libraries, baths, temples and private quarters that once housed royal guardsman, attendants and slaves.

If you enjoy formal gardens, Villa d’Este is a must-do. Located on the opposite side of town from Hadrian’s Villa, this splendid estate features a lovely mansion, but it is the gardens that most visitors come to see.

What makes these historic gardens so special is the Renaissance method of integrating unique water works and artistic features into the beautiful landscape. Stroll along winding and maze-like paths that offer a pleasant surprise at every turn like musical fountains, gorgeous statues, frescoed rooms and breathtaking waterfalls. If you can tear yourself away from the gardens, you will also find cozy little restaurants and boutiques along the narrow streets of this charming villa.

Getting to Tivoli

• By train, it can take as little as half an hour to reach Tivoli from Rome, although many options will take around an hour to an hour and a half. The journey, however, is very cheap and a ticket can cost you less than three euros one way. While Villa Gregoriana is located just a short walk away from Tivoli train station, you’ll need to take a bus if you want to visit the other two villas, which are well-signposted. This does make it tricky to visit more than two out of the three on a day trip to Tivoli.
• Indeed, many people decide to take a tour to both Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este, which enables them to explore the ruins without having to worry about figuring out bus times. The guide’s commentary will tell you all about the amazing villas and their rich history.

A day trip from Rome to the beautiful island of Capri requires a full day, but it is well worth it. Capri offers several fantastic attractions, but the one not to miss is the Blue Grotto, a cave that reveals a brilliant reflection of blue and emerald-colored water.

The cave can be accessed by a short boat ride from Marina Grande. Other attractions include Mount Solaro, Capri’s highest point. A chair lift takes visitors to the top of the mountain which offers stunning views of the island and sea. The lovely Villa San Michele in the town of Anacapri is also worth a visit with its stunning gardens, Phoenician steps, cafe and museum.

Getting to Capri

• People wanting to visit Capri from Rome first need to head to Naples, where they can take a ferry to the idyllic island. From Roma Termini, it can take as little as an hour and fifteen minutes to reach Naples if you take the fast train. Slower trains, while cheaper, can take up to three hours, but this will severely limit how much time you have in Capri. Once in Naples, take a metro or taxi to Piazza Municipio. Ferries regularly leave from nearby Molo Beverello , and the high-speed ones take 40 minutes to reach Capri.
• If all that sounds a bit complicated, you may want to look into taking an organized trip to Capri; this is a hassle-free way to see incredible sights such as the Blue Grotto and sweeping views of the Bay of Naples. From Rome, the tour takes you on a scenic bus journey to Naples before you take to the waters and head off to explore what Capri has to offer.

2. Amalfi Coast

Stunning scenery is what the Amalfi Coast is all about: picturesque towns built on hills and cliffs that drop off into the sea below. Some towns are built right up to the water, with craggy mountains as the backdrop. No wonder the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations.

The region is popular with celebrities, especially Positano with its glitzy boutiques. Perhaps they fell in love with the region while filming movies and TV shows here; that’s very easy to do here. It’s also easy to fall in love with limoncello, a liqueur made from Amalfi lemons.

The Amalfi Coast is dotted with quaint villages , each with at least one old church worth visiting and some with palatial Roman villas. Located between the gulfs of Naples and Salerno , there’s only one very scenic road through the region, but the towns are easily accessible by ferry.

Getting to Amalfi Coast

• For visitors looking to explore the glorious Amalfi Coast while in Rome, Positano is a great place to head to that is well-serviced by bus from Naples. After taking a train from Roma Termini to Naples Centrale Station, which can take anywhere between an hour and fifteen minutes to three hours, it is just a short walk to Naples Garribaldi, from where the bus departs. It takes around an hour to get to Meta, where you then change and take a half hour bus ride to Positano. While this may sound like a long journey, the views from the bus over the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius mean that it passes by very quickly.
• To make the most of your visit to the Amalfi Coast, a tour may be the best option. It combines a visit to Pompeii with a stop at Positano, and you even have the chance to go for a swim in the enticing waters of the Mediterranean.

No visit to Rome would be complete without a day trip to Pompeii . You can walk among the streets of this ruined metropolis to learn about its history and see what remains of 2,000 year old shops, restaurants, residential homes, baths and brothels as well as political, religious and commercial centers.

There are also plastered body casts of actual people who died in the catastrophic volcanic eruption of 79 AD. The National Archeological Museum of Pompeii contains a fascinating collection of artifacts and art works that were excavated from the Pompeii site.

Getting to Pompeii

• By high-speed train, it takes just over an hour to get to Naples from Rome. From there, it is relatively easy to get to Pompeii using public transport. At Naples Centrale station, take the Circumvesuviana train towards Sorrento. The train journey to Pompeii Scavi station only takes half an hour, and you’ll see the entrance to the ruins as soon as you exit.
• For visitors really looking to gain a greater understanding of Pompeii’s fascinating history, a tour to the ruins and Mount Vesuvius accompanied by an expert guide is well worth looking into.

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35 Amazing Day Trips from Rome – Best Places to Visit nearby

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Are you looking for the best day trips from Rome? Some cool places to visit for a day out of the city? You are in the right place! Beyond Rome lies a wealth of options for day trips and excursions. Some of the most rewarding tourist destinations can be reached within an hour, either by car, bus, or train.

Whether heading north or south from Italy’s capital, there’s plenty to see and do on a day excursion from Rome. From beautiful beaches to stunning monuments, vineyards to picturesque villages, discover 35 amazing places to visit from Rome – an eclectic mix of day tours out of Rome to meet every budget!

1 – Pompeii

Step into a time machine and take a trip back into the past to the ancient city of Pompeii. Explore the majestic homes as well as modest ones that have been perfectly restored and preserved or visit Roman shops that were once frequented by Pompeii’s citizens. In other parts of Pompeii, baths and brothels stand ready for exploration, while the Villa of Mysteries offers a bizarre experience with frescoes that have confused scholars for many years. Join in on the debate and try to interpret the preserved frescoes or walk through the ancient streets of the city to spot graffiti that can still be seen to this day on some of the city’s walls.

• Day tours from Rome to Pompeii

See also: The best Pompeii tours from Rome provide an immersive experience, revealing the rich history and culture of this iconic site.

2 – Naples

Naples is the gateway city to Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii and in actual fact, you can visit both places in one day. A city full of history and attractions to visit such as Castel Naples and National Archeological Museum. Also famous for being one of the most famous Italian city for pizza so you might be interested to join a food tour around Naples to get to know their cuisine. You won’t be disappointed.

• Excursions to Naples from Rome

3 – Mount Vesuvius

Depart for an extraordinary tour and h ead to the peak of Mount Vesuvius, one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions. Discover the bay of Naples from another perspective with your volcanologist guide.

• Day trips from Rome to Vesuvius

4 – Caserta Royal Palace

Referred to as an Italian Versailles, this Royal Palace in Caserta is the largest in the world (UNESCO World Heritage). This royal palace has five floors, 1200 rooms, 34 stairs and 1742 windows. All its decoration, tapestry and frescoes are breathtaking. Make sure you book a guided tour if you decide to visit Casera Royal Palace for the day so you get a comprehensive guide of its history. If you are travelling there by train or car, you can book your tickets in advance to avoid the queue.

• Compare day trips to Caserta Royal Palace

5 – Venice

Experience one of the most romantic cities in the world. Heavily touristy but with fascinating architecture, canals to wander around on a gondola and stroll around the labyrinth of cobblestone streets, as well as its world-class museums. If you’re in Rome and want to travel to Venice you may want to travel there on a speed train to save up time. From Venice, you can visit some of the islands on a ferry like Burano, Murano, Torcello.

The main attraction in Venice Saint Mark’s Cathedrals Archdiocese of Venice is one of the most famous churches and one of the best-known examples of Italo-Byzantine architecture.

• Day tours out of Rome to Venice

6 – Calcata

Perched atop a rocky mountain, Calcata is one of the most beautiful and unique villages just 30 km from the city of Rome. Calcata makes an ideal excursion from Rome for those who are looking for something different to do whilst in Rome. Its bohemian atmosphere and medieval architecture are definitely enchanting.

7 – Monte Cassino

Famous for its monastery built by Saint Benedict in 529 for himself and the monks from Subiaco. Just a 2-hour drive from Rome, Montecassino Abbey has a lot of history to learn about. From when it was destroyed by the Langoboards and again during the wartime; to understand fully how much its monastery suffered, you can combine your day trip out of Rome with a tour of WWII battlefields in the Montecassino area.

Day Trips from Rome to Amalfi Coast

Fall in love with one of Italy’s most beautiful coasts on a day trip from Rome, where you will explore the enchanting town of Amalfi. Their beautiful narrow streets spill down the hill and their colourful houses are its true essence. You can also reach the beach and relax while enjoying some sun.

• Day Tours from Rome to Amalfi Coast

Hot tip: read our review of the best Amalfi Coast boat tours .

8 – Positano

You can also find Positano on the famous Amalfi Coast, perched on a hill which spills down to the water. It is a very popular destination so if you’re planning a day trip to Positano, it’s best if you schedule it during the spring season. As it’s in Amalfi Coast, consider taking a day tour out of Rome to Amalfi Coast and explore Positano and its other beautiful quaint towns.

9 – Sorrento

Overlooking the bay of Naples, Sorrento is a favourite holiday destination. There are not shortage of fun things to do in Sorrento . Apart from the beautiful scenery, it also offers museums and characteristic markets. You can experience the heart and soul of Piazza Taso where you will find many restaurants or go to the Marina Grande to eat some seafood. Sorrento has many places to explore and its scenery is beautiful. Due to its proximity to Naples, you may want to take a day trip from Rome to Naples and include Sorrento in your itinerary.

Day trips from Rome to Tuscany

Hot tip: Read more about the best things to do in Tuscany .

Interesting history, beautiful countryside and delicious food, Tuscany has a lot to offer. If you only have one day to visit somewhere outside of Rome, this day trip from Rome to Tuscany can be your best option. You get a guided visit of Siena, San Gimignano and Pisa. Explore the city of Siena and the cathedral, Chianti hills for a Tuscan lunch and wine tasting. Wander around the streets of San Gimignano and admire Pisa’s architecture. This type of day trip lasts for 12 hours approximately.

• Day tours from Rome to Tuscany

10 – Florence

Florence is a must-visit so make sure you add it to your itinerary. Florence is home to some of the most important Renaissance heritage highlights in the world such as Uffizi Gallery, the Bargello, Santa Maria Novella or the Santa Croce. Also, the library of San Lorenzo is a must-visit as it shows Michelangelo’s pure architecture. After all the museums and monuments that you will visit, you will be mesmerized.

• Day tours out of Rome to Florence

 11 – Siena

The ancient city of Siena boasts of UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is famous for its Palio, a horse race which runs in Piazza del Campo two days a year; its medieval architecture, the Palazzo Civico with its stunning frescoes and Torre del Mangia, a 400-steps tower which has amazing views overlooking the city and its surroundings.

• Compare Siena day trips from Rome

12 – Pisa

You’ve probably seen thousands of pictures of The Leaning Tower of Pisa, as it is the icon of the city. But it’s not all just about the Leaning Tower, Pisa also has more than 20 historical sites like churches, museums, art galleries and more to explore. Wander around the old town and understand why Pisa is one of the most important cities in Italy, as it used to compete back in the days with Genoa and Venice as a maritime powerhouse.

• Compare Pisa day trips from Rome

13 – San Gimignano

San Gimignano is one of the most picturesque villages in Tuscany. It boasts 14 medieval towers, cobblestone streets to wander around in and admire the old medieval architecture of the buildings. It’s small enough to be visited on a day trip from nearby cities such as Siena, Florence and Rome.

• Compare San Gimignano day trips from Rome

14 – Livorno

On the western coast of Italy in Tuscany, Livorno is well-recognized to be similar to Venice. It’s surrounded by canals and it’s one of the oldest parts of the city. Here you can enjoy some local food, wandering around the city with its majestic squares, numerous bridges and architecture.

15 – Cortona

An old town with Etruscan origin easy to enjoy on foot and its beautiful surroundings. Set on an altitude of 600 metres, it has beautiful views. It offers many good restaurants and bars that serve typical dishes of Tuscany and its delicious wines. Near to the Lake Trasimeno, Montepulciano, Arezzo, Siena, Orvieto, San Gimignano and much more other beautiful villages. If you want to maximize your experience in Tuscany, include Cortona in your itinerary.

• Day Tours to Montepulciano and Cortona

16 – Arezzo

Birthplace of the famous Giorgio Vasari and Piero della Francesca, Arezzo is an open museum of their art. Nowadays it is an agriculture trade centre and has machine, clothing, jewellery and gold industries, also a touristic place in Tuscany. The piazza Granda is its main place to visit with many cafes and restaurants, pass by Arezzo’s cathedral, the Medici Fortress which offers a 360-view of Arezzo and the surrounding areas. Don’t miss their traditions where each of Arezzo’s neighbourhood has their own team of knights who joust twice a year in June and September.

17 – Capalbio

A beautiful gorgeous village in Southern Maremma that is an easy day trip from Rome. This charming city is best to visit in the summer season for its sandy beaches, its top places to visit is the Fortress of Aldobrandeschi and the Church of San Nicola. Capalbio is rich in history, natural vistas and long sandy beaches. This can be an ideal day trip from Rome if you want to get away from the hustle.

Day trips from Rome to Umbria region

Explore the Umbria region from Rome and discover everchanging, untouched landscapes in the green of stunning valley.

18 – Assisi

A small Umbrian town in central Italy, Assisi is a short drive away from Rome. It is best known for being the birthplace of Italy’s patron saint, St. Francis of Assisi, who is also one of the most popular Catholic saints in history. The main attraction of the town is the 13th-century Basilica di San Francesco, which houses sacred relics of St. Francis along with gorgeous frescoes depicting his life.

• Day Tours out of Rome to Assisi

19 – Orvieto

Sitting on a grand stone throne a thousand feet above the valley floor, the town of Orvieto in the Umbria region is an absolutely stunning day trip destination. Orvieto is the most striking and memorable of all of Italy’s hill towns and features a 13th-century cathedral and former papal residences as well as an extensive and intricate network of underground tunnels.

The town is separated into two distinct sections: the old-town on the hilltop and the relatively modern part of town below. While there are some points of interest in the new part of town, your time is best spent at the top of the hill where the lively Orvieto cathedral beckons.

Day trips from Rome nearby

20 – Tivoli

Just an hour away from Rome, the historic town of Tivoli is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Hadrian’s Villa and the Villa d’Este . They are composed of a large number of structures, lakes, libraries, temples and gardens. Not be missed are the Fountain of the Dragons, the Hundred Fountains and the Water Organ Fountain in the Villa d’Este.

• Compare Tivoli day trips from Rome

21 –  Ancient  Ostia

This ancient city was the main port of Rome and of major commercial importance. Nearly all of the city of Antica is an incredible excavation site which dates back to the 7 th century although there are some sites that are still uncovered and date back to the 3 rd century.

It’s must-visit attractions are Baths of Neptune, the theatre, Capitolium and Forum, Decumanus Maximus and much more… Make sure you visit Ostia Antica with a tour guide in order to get a comprehensive explanation of its rich history.

• Day trips from Rome to Ancient Ostia

22 –  Castelli Romani

Castelli Romani is home to several beautiful towns. Great villas and palaces can be found all over the villages, as the area was once a favourite retreat for wealthy Roman residents in the past.

For those who are keen on tasting some of the region’s white wine, make sure to visit the town of Frascati. Meanwhile, the town of Castel Gandolfo is home to the Papal Palace and its magnificent garden. Other towns to visit include Velletri, home to an archaeological museum dating back to the Iron Age, Arricia, which is famous for its roast pork, and Albano Laziale, a town with a lengthy history.

Castel Gandolfo

Easily accessible side trip from Rome due to its proximity (40 minutes approximately). You can learn from history, art and culture in Castel Gandolfo by visiting the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo. Go up to the castle to enjoy the views over the Lake Albano. Castel Gandolfo has a lot to enjoy from so if you’re looking to visit more than just the typical attractions in Rome.

• Day trips to Castelli Romani from Rome

23 – Matera

It boasts very well preserved rock-cut settlements that are considered World Heritage. It is recognized for its caved houses on limestone rocks. If you’re looking for something different and unique, Matera will fulfil your expectations.

It is a city full of hidden treasures, museums, festivals, concerts and much more.

24 – Giardino di Ninfa

A great example of Italian medieval architecture, the Giardino di Ninfa is a park situated in Cisterna di Latina of central Italy. There are tour guides in this garden between the months of April and October only.

The availability to visit the garden is due to preserving the garden, the remains of a medieval castle, churches, clock towers, palazzos and plenty more to see.

25 –  Cerveteri

Famous for its well-preserved Etruscan Necropolis, just a 50 minutes drive from Rome. Its main attraction is the Necropolis of the Etruscans but not only this, it also has many historical sites and cultural attractions: the Ruspoli Castle, Cerite National Museum where you can see artefacts from the necropolis, Piazza San Pietro and many other attractions.

Day Trips from Rome to Apulia region

26 – Apulia

Apulia is a region in Southern Italy towards the eastern coast which offers a lot of things to see. It has many UNESCO World Heritage such as Trulli in Alberobello, the castle of Frederick II in Castel del Monte, Longoboard sanctuary in Monte Sant’Angelo. It also has beautiful traditional houses full of history in Ostuni, baroque buildings and Romanesque-gothic churches all over this region.

The region of Apulia, in general, has a vibrant vibe so if you’re looking for relaxing on a beach, culture, art and tradition, you should come here. There are plenty of day trips from Rome to Apulia region where you can have a thorough tour of almost everything there is to see in Apulia.

Day Trips from Rome to the seaside, lakes and islands

27 – Capri

Escape to an island in the Tyrrhenian Sea for a day trip from Rome. Tours usually take you to Naples and from there they take you to Capri on a boat. In Capri you shouldn’t miss out on Blue Grotto, a small beautiful cave and Anacapri where you can get on a cableway. It’ll take you up to the top of Monte Solaro and have breathtaking views of the gulf of Naples and Salerno.

• Compare Capri day trips from Rome

See also: Best boat tours in Capri

28 –  Ponza island

Ponza island is just off the coast of Italy south of Rome and north of Naples. Ponza has plenty of Etruscan, Roman and other remains. Most famous site in Ponza is probably the Roman Gallery which is a Roman tunnel that connects the town of Ponza to the beach of Chiaia di Luna. You can enjoy snorkelling and swimming in the clear blue sea and other many water activities.

• Ponza day trips from Rome

29 – Santa Marinella

If you’re visiting Rome in the summer and want to explore more than just city, Santa Marinella is a great place for a day trip to cool off, eat some fresh seafood and relax on the beach. Santa Marinella is a perfect seaside day trip from Rome, just 50 minutes away.

30 – Lake Trasimeno

One of the best things to do in Lake Trasimeno is a tour of the islands by ferry: Island Polvese and Island Maggiore. Not only this, but you can also go round the Lake Trasimeno by bike to explore the Lake quicker and enjoy the views. There are castles to visit, palaces and much more to explore perfect for relaxation and wander around. Since there are plenty of things to do, consider looking for day trips from Rome to Lake Trasimeno. You won’t regret it!

31 – Lake Martignano

Lake Martignano, a very calm lake to enjoy the peace and tranquillity. It is a perfect day trip from Rome to get away from the hustle. Not only you can spend the day, but you can also stay overnight at a campsite. You can visit the Agriturismo il Castoro where you can enjoy grass beach and hammocks to make your stay more comfortable, as well as a restaurant in the area to enjoy grilled meat.

32 – Lake Bracciano

Located in Bracciano, the Lake Bracciano is a volcanic lake which is characteristic for its clear waters. Many water activities can be enjoyed here like sailing, canoeing, scuba-diving. Lake Bracciano belongs to the Bracciano-Martignano Natural Park so it is well-preserved. You can visit Lake Bracciano on a day trip from Rome and visit the town of Bracciano whilst you’re there. The town of Bracciano has a medieval castle worth visiting.

• Compare Bracciano day trips from Rome

33 – Lake Vico

An unspoiled area in Lazio with fresh, clear and calm waters. The perfect place to enjoy some paddle boarding, kayaking around the lake and canoeing for adventurous travellers. In addition to a good variety of water activities, Lago di Vico has a lot of nature to explore and bird species to watch. It has plenty of treks to walk in and picnic tables to stop at and eat whilst being in total nature. You can find Lago di Vico just an hour and 20 minutes from Rome.

34 – Anzio

About 1 hour away from Rome, Anzio is a fishing port famous for its delicious fish plates and for being a significant site during World War II. It also has a harbour for ferries and hydroplanes to the islands of Ponza, Palmarola and Ventotene. You can combine a day trip from Rome to Anzio and Ponza islands if you’re feeling adventurous.

35 – Sperlonga

Its main attraction is the beach, Sperlonga is a famous summer destination for families. Famous for its grotto (cave) which has sculptures representing scenes of Odysseus. Not much more to see, Sperlonga is a destination to relax in, on its beaches, walk its promenade, go up its watchtower and visit its archaeological museum.

We hope this comprehensive guide helps you find out more about the many day trips from Rome. If you have any queries please do not hesitate in commenting below!

• Compare all day trips from Rome

Train Travel in Italy: The Ultimate Guide

Train travel in Italy is relatively easy, but may pose some challenges if you have never been to the country or if you are not used to this mode of transportation. This is why we have created this ultimate guide to traveling by train in Italy, which you can also print out and carry with you during your trip as a reference. 

Let’s look at the main points to consider. 

What is the Best Way to Get Around Italy?

Buying an italian train ticket, arriving at the train station in italy, safety at the train station.

• Types of Italian Trains
• Should I Book a First Class Ticket or a Second Class Ticket?  
• What To Do If Your Train is Canceled or Delayed

How to Pack for Train Travel in Italy 

• Train Travel Times for the Most Common Italian Routes  

The Most Important Train Stations in Italy

The train is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to travel around Italy, however this does not mean you have to do it all by train. Whether you use the train for all or part of your Italian trip depends on the itinerary that you are planning. If you do the classic Rome-Florence-Venice tour, then you can do it all easily by train, and it is the recommended option because the train stations in these cities are conveniently located in the city centers and you do not need a car to tour them. If you plan to visit the countryside or the mountains, you should consider renting a car as it gives you more freedom and flexibility. You can also combine different modes of transport: train between major art cities, a rental car for an on the road and to reach smaller towns and hilltop towns that may not be as well connected, plane if you need to go from the north to the south of Italy or vice versa. 

Most train stations in Italy are located in or very close to the city center (hence why many have ‘centrale’ in their name), so they’re very easy to reach, sometimes even on foot from your centrally located hotel. 

Where Italian trains are the best or only choice:

• Rome, Florence, Venice, Naples, Milan, Cinque Terre

Where Italian trains are better avoided:

• Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Sardinia, remote countryside

Where a car is a good option, but you can also get by with trains and buses:

• Tuscany, Umbria, the Dolomites 

You have two options to buy train tickets for your Italian trip:

• Buy your ticket online in advance via the train company’s website (Trenitalia and Italo), an intermediary like Italian train travel specialists ItaliaRail , or through your travel agent;
• Directly at the train station in Italy, either at the ticketing window or using the self-serve ticket machines (instructions are available in English and the machines accept credit cards).

We recommend buying your tickets in advance whenever possible so that you do not have to wait in line, deal with a machine if you’re in a hurry, you have more seat options, plus having your trip mapped out beforehand can save you precious time while in Italy.

As a general rule of thumb, the sooner you book, the cheaper the fare. Seniors and children (or family packages) generally have reduced fares on Trenitalia’s Frecce and Italo. 

*For more information about buying train tickets in Italy, see our dedicated feature .

First of all, always arrive early (at least 20 minutes before your train’s departure time). Train stations in major cities like Rome, Milan and Bologna are very big and you may have to walk five to ten minutes to reach your track ( binario in Italian). 

The first thing you want to do when you get to the train station in Italy is to find the electronic board with the trains departure information. There are several throughout the stations, with the bigger one in the main hall and ticketing area, and smaller ones on each platform, in underground passages and waiting areas.

The board has the following information:

• Type of train and train number ( treno )
• Train’s final destination ( destinazione )
• Departure time ( orario )
• Delay ( ritardo ) - expect a 5-10 minute delay as standard in Italy
• Information ( informazioni ) - this usually displays the intermediate stops of the train with arrival times and where the different classes are located scrolling by
• Platform number ( binario )

To identify your train, look for the train number on your ticket, as the destination shown on the board is the final one, but your destination may be an intermediate stop (which you will see in the part of the display that scrolls by). 

If your train does not have a specific train number, date and time printed on it, you must validate it before boarding . Look for a green, white or yellow electronic box and insert your ticket into it to get it timestamped (ie validated) before getting on your train (the validation lasts for six hours). This mostly applies to regional trains. You do not need to validate your ticket if you are taking a Freccia high-speed train or Italo train (see below for specifics). 

When at the platform, double-check that the train you are about to board is the right one by looking at one of the several boards positioned overhead along the track, it specifies train number and destination.

Also, make sure to board the correct carriage; the number is visible on the side of the train, on an electronic sign on the door, and before boarding, on a screen overhead. This way you will avoid creating more confusion and blocking aisles as you walk through carriages to reach your seat.  

Generally speaking, traveling by train in Italy is safe, but be vigilant of pickpockets and other petty criminals that may target disoriented travelers intent on finding their way through the station. Always carry your bag in the front, and consider investing in a money belt to place your passport, credit card, money and important documents. 

If your luggage on the train is not close to you (ie if it’s big you’re going to have to place it in the luggage area at the front or end of the carriage), take a look at it when the train stops at intermediate stations.

Do not accept help from strangers who may offer to carry your luggage or help you get a ticket at the ticketing machine. They may insist on getting a ‘tip’ from you once their ‘service’ is done and not leave until you do. Just send them away as soon as they approach you. 

Types of Italian Trains 

Two companies run trains in Italy: Trenitalia and Italo. For a long time, Trenitalia has been the only railway company in Italy and to this day it has the widest network and routes. Italo began operating in 2012, and offers high-speed service between major Italian cities. 

When traveling on Trenitalia, you have three different types of train to choose from which differ based on speed and price. 

Le Frecce - they are Trenitalia’s most modern, comfortable and fastest trains, which also means they cost more. They require advance reservation, have seat assignment, and provide most of the high-speed service on the main lines between Turin, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Rome, Naples, and Bari. 

There are three types of Frecce: 

Frecciarossa : the fastest and most expensive trains, traveling up to 300 km/h. They connect Italy’s biggest cities (Turin, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Rome, and Naples), but not Venice. Frecciargento : these trains use both the high-speed and traditional lines; they are not as fast as the Frecciarossa and take you to main cities such as Florence, Bologna, Rome, and Naples, but not to Milan or Turin. They go to Venice and southern regions like Apulia and Calabria.

Frecciabianca : the slowest among the Frecce, they run on traditional lines and connect large and medium-sized cities in 14 of the 20 Italian regions (Valle d’Aosta, Trentino Alto Adige, Umbria, Basilicata, Sicily and Sardinia are not covered).

Intercity - these trains are less expensive than the Frecce ; they operate outside of the high speed line, therefore your trip will take longer. They connect medium to large cities across Italy, making few intermediate stops. It is not always possible to reserve your seat in advance. These trains are usually quite old and don’t have amenities like wi-fi and restaurant service, available on the Frecce .

Regional trains   - the cheapest option, these trains are used by locals to get to and from work and school, connecting minor towns and villages. You cannot reserve a seat in advance, therefore if you need to take a regional train, try to avoid rush hours. Coaches are mostly second class, with only one or two reserved for first (which in this case you may want to get). These are the trains you would take for example if you were going to the Cinque Terre or to Assisi.

General tip : use the Frecce to reach the biggest cities, then use regionali to move around the region to smaller centers (when possible - sometimes you will need to take a bus instead; sometimes renting a car will be the easiest option). 

Should I Book a First Class Ticket or a Second Class Ticket? 

All trains generally offer first class and second class, or, in the most modern trains, ‘standard’, ‘premium’, ‘business’, ‘executive’ (the most expensive, the less seats available and the less people around you). What corresponds to second class (or standard) on the Frecce and Italo is absolutely decent, but obviously more crowded, so if you wish for tranquility and silence, go for an upper class of service. You may want to step up to first class on the Intercity and regional trains.  

What To Do If Your Train is Canceled or Delayed 

When you travel by train in Italy, you should be aware that things don’t always go as smoothly as you may expect in countries such as, say, Switzerland or Germany. Try to remain patient as your train may be canceled or delayed because of a strike, an accident or repairs on the line. 

As reported on the Trenitalia website:

- if your Freccia train is delayed by 30 to 59 minutes, Trenitalia will issue a bonus equal to 25% of the ticket price that you can use for future purchases.  

- If your Freccia train is over an hour late when you get to your destination, you are entitled to a compensation equal to: 25%   of the ticket price for a delay ranging from 60 to 119 minutes; 50%   of the ticket price for a delay of more than 120 minutes. The compensation may be issued in the form of a bonus for a new ticket to be purchased within 12 months; cash if the ticket was paid cash or refund on the card that you used for payment.

You can request your bonus after 24 hours from the date of travel and up to 12 months, at the ticket office of any train station, online on the Trenitalia website, at the travel agency that issued the ticket, or by calling the Call Center. 

Use this page for reference .

Pack light! You don’t want to have to carry around a huge suitcase that is hard to lift and lower when you get on and off the train. Remember, there are a few steep steps up (and down) the train, there may be stairs to the platforms, especially in the older stations where you won’t find the automatic ones, and you may have to walk the distance in large train stations like Rome Termini or Bologna Centrale. 

Go for a light carry-on or even a backpack, this will be helpful in general as you may decide to also walk between your hotel and the train station. 

We have a great feature with general tips on how to pack for travel to Italy by Sarah Murdoch, a Rick Steves tour guide and Italy expert. 

Train Travel Times for the Most Common Italian Routes  

Rome – Florence 

1 hour 31 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia)  

1 hour 23 minutes (Italo)

Rome – Venice 

3 hours 45 minutes (Frecciargento – Trenitalia)

3 hours 45 minutes (Italo)

Rome – Milan 

2 hours 55 minutes / 3 hours 20 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia) 

3 hours 14 minutes (Italo)

Rome – Naples  

1 hour 10 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia) 

1 hour 20 minutes (Italo)

Florence – Milan 

1 hour 40 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia) 

1 hour 50 minutes (Italo)

Florence – Venice 

2 hours 5 minutes (Frecciargento – Trenitalia) 

2 hours 5 minutes (Italo)

Milan – Venice 

2 hours 23 minutes / 2 hours 35 minutes (Frecciabianca – Trenitalia) 

Milan – Naples 

4 hours 40 minutes (Frecciarossa – Trenitalia)

4 hours 31 minutes (Italo)

• Rome: Roma Termini
• Florence: Firenze Santa Maria Novella
• Venice: Venezia Santa Lucia
• Milan: Milano Centrale
• Naples: Napoli Centrale
• Turin: Torino Porta Nuova
• Bologna: Bologna Centrale 

Now that you know everything you need to know about train travel in Italy, enjoy the ride as you watch Italy’s beautiful scenery roll by!

For more Italian train travel, check our dedicated section , Italy by Train. 

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15 Beautiful Small Towns and Villages Near Rome and Across Lazio, Italy

Home » Destinations » Europe » Italy » 15 Beautiful Small Towns and Villages Near Rome and Across Lazio, Italy

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Updated: 24th March 2023

Spanning out from the eternal city, the region of Lazio is sprinkled with many of Italy’s best small towns and ravishing villages near Rome. And with far fewer visitors, they nearly all deliver a tranquil escape, especially outside of the summer season.

Of course, tearing yourself away from the country’s attraction-packed, sightseeing-centric and footfall-heavy capital is a tough decision to make. However, if you’re not in the mood for a non-stop city break and instead want to slow down and savour the good things in life alongside the best Italian experiences , the countless small towns in Italy close to Rome promise plenty of historical insight still but served up with a much more laid-back atmosphere.

Recently, I heeded that invitation and set out on my own Viaggio Italiano to discover some of the best places near Rome to visit by train, bus, and the occasional taxi. Trying to keep sustainable travel at the forefront of my mind, I discovered even the loftiest hilltop villages were accessible with a little patience and planning, with plenty of treasures awaiting after the climb.

While each of the five provinces that make up Lazio all offer their own culture, cuisine and plenty of picture-perfect day trips from Rome, I quickly realised that every borg o (small Italian villages, borghi is the plural) promised something in common.

The magic of these places was the chance to enjoy a slower pace of life, connect with the local community, and discover numerous ancient sites and stories that perhaps a day trip wouldn’t allow, so do yourself a favour and stay a while. 

Of course, those awarded the ‘ I Borghi più Belli d’Italia ‘ (most beautiful villages in Italy) title were ravishing, but each one I set foot in had its own captivating charm, and I hope you find the chance to craft your own unforgettable journey through Lazio, far from the crowds of Rome.

Here are 15 of the most beautiful villages near Rome I recently discovered, broken up into the five provinces across central, northern and southern Lazio, and soon, I’ll add more in-depth guides to each of these villages near Rome on my Italy travel blog pages.

In this article...

Staying central: Province of Rome (Castelli Romani) and possible day trips near Rome

Starting closest to the country’s capital, the area surrounding the eternal city is the best option if you seek day trips near Rome rather than an overnight stay or slow-paced rural village escape.

Within the greater metropolitan and nearby area, you’ll find plenty of beautiful spots to escape from the city’s busy attractions, and reliable public transport connections ensure an easy journey.

Parts of this land are called Castelli Romani due to the numerous castles around, meaning you can count on these places to visit near Rome to be packed with history, photogenic panoramas, and plenty of memorable moments without venturing too far into the Lazio region.

Castel Gandolfo

Why visit? Spectacular lake views coupled with the incredible summer residence of the Pope

Castel Gandolfo is often regarded as one of the most beautiful small towns near Rome, something that even the Pope would attest to as it is here he has his summer residence, the Papal Palace. 

That was until 2014 when Pope Francis opened the palace and gardens to the public, and now they are a popular tourist attraction, often combined with a visit to the Vatican city. While I didn’t tour them this time (book tickets in advance), I found other ways to enjoy the borgo and spent a few nights here. This, I found, allowed me to enjoy the village in a slumber, as being one of the most popular places near Rome to visit by train on a quick day trip, it can feel quite crowded during the holidays or weekends.

Beyond the palaces and churches, I found enough to keep me busy. From taking boat tours and kayaking on Lake Albano, the cerulean-hued and turquoise-fringed volcanic crater lake below, to devouring the regional pasta specialities, such as  cellitti  coasted in a porcini mushroom sauce. The local white wine, Colli Albani, also featured heavily during the evenings spent on my apartment’s balcony overlooking the lake.

For such a notable destination, it’s relatively small, but certainly not without its charm. While the imposing entrance gates, the 1624-built palace, and impressive churches are all classical, you’ll find a contemporary dining scene here, with trendy restaurants, many of which seemed to have been designed with Instagram in mind. 

One of my favourite moments came in La Musa Mosaici, where I learnt to hammer stone pieces and craft a mosaic. While my design certainly wasn’t going to compete with the many Roman masterpieces found in Lazio, I came away with a new appreciation for this challenging art form.

Nearby, you’ll find some of the other most delightful villages near Rome, such as Ariccia, Lanuvio and Nemi, so Castel Gandolfo serves as a decent base for both hamlet hopping, but also exploring Rome if you don’t want to stay in the capital proper.

Top tip: Avoid the weekends (and peak season) to skip the crowds, and if you want something fun to do, take a 90-minute mosaic class .

How to get there? By train from Rome, the journey to Castel Gandolfo takes around 45-minutes, with a short walk uphill after. By car, if there is no traffic, you’ll arrive in under 30-minutes.

Where to stay? While Castel Gandolfo is a good option for a day trip near Rome, staying a night or two will allow you to appreciate the quieter side of the streets and give you more time to experience the lake and palace. The suites and apartments at Atlantis Inn , especially those with lake views, are a delight. 

Why visit? The Roman Ships Museums and the adorable small village by a lake atmosphere

If you want to combine a few of the villages near Rome together, then Castel Gandolfo, Ariccia, and Nemi are easily blended – especially if you follow the gorgeous walking trail between the two lakes.

Nemi’s setting is an absolute beauty. Perched above the volcanic-crater lake of the same name below, the pedestrianised compact borgo core is a mix of colourful facades, restaurant terraces – try the local  porchetta  (pork) sandwich – and historic buildings. It’s also usually much less visited than neighbouring Castel Gandolfo. 

Down by the lake, two of Nemi’s most famous attractions can be found. The Temple of Diana, a historically significant pilgrimage and worshipping site since the 6th century BC, and the Roman Ship Museum of Nemi.

The Roman ships, once anchored on the lake and used in religious celebrations for Diana, were nearly lost forever after sinking until they found a new home in the Museum during the 1930s. Sadly, a fire in 1944 torched both the Museum and the wooden vessels, and they were finally lost forever. However, inside you’ll find displays, recreations, and information on their storied past. 

Top tip: Don’t visit on a Monday, you’ll find all the museums closed.

How to get there? Surprisingly, given it’s so close to Rome, it’s not so direct to get here. You’ll need to take two buses and allow at least 90-minutes or hike the trail from Castel Gandolfo. By car, you can arrive in less than 40 minutes. 

Where to stay? Nemi’s compact size means it can be a day trip from Rome or combined with a visit to Castel Gandolfo. However, as with all the beautiful small towns near Rome, slowing down is the name of the game, and if you wish to spend some nights here, the rooms at il Lago di Nemi (closer to the lake than the village) promise a tranquil retreat.

Castel San Pietro Romano 

Why visit? Sweeping views across the countryside and eternal city, and a side trip to the amazing National Archaeological Museum of Palestrina

A literal movie star, Castel San Pietro Romano’s cinematic mountaintop position (752 metres) has seen it featured in various silver-screen films and plaques across the borgo highlight scenes and the settings.

Set atop Mount Ginestro, the panoramas across Rome and beyond – an eternal view over an eternal city, if you will – are equally as motion picture worthy. Of course, this position was picked for a defensive reason rather than to be camera worthy, but that has sure helped make this spot a popular day trip near Rome.

The ‘Akropolis’ – as the old central core is known – is protected by 2500-year-old polygonal walls, although the multiple medieval towers that once stood here are long gone. Luckily, the walls of the triangular-shaped storied castle that dominates and defines the village are still mainly intact, and you can peek inside the open-air slice of history. Named Rocca dei Colonna, it protected this village near Rome in its influential family-run heyday, warding off any unwelcome attacks from Rome and the Vatican.

Nearby, the Cannuccete Valley provides some beautiful walking trails, but the most impressive close-by attraction is the Archaeological Museum of Palestrina.

Reached by following the trail down the hill, this huge palace is a multi-layered and multi-floored museum packed with Roman artefacts and treasures. The mosaics steal the show, though, with the vast and detailed Nile Mosaic of Palestrina (a Hellenistic period floor piece since restored and displayed on a wall) sure to leave you spellbound.

Top tip: The €5 to enter Plestrina’s museum is worth it alone for the Nile River Mosaic – be sure to go to the top floor (it’s a confusing building) so you don’t miss it.

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, the best bet is to take a bus to Palestrina and another up the hill if you don’t want to do the steep climb. By train, you can go to Zagarolo station and then switch to a bus. Driving takes an hour, with the quickest public transport journeys a little longer.

Where to stay? This village near Rome is pretty small, so can make for a day trip, although you’ll likely want to also spend a few hours at least visiting the museum of Palestrina, so consider staying at least one night here, perhaps at B&B I 4 Sentieri which has magnificent views over the borgo.

Heading south: Province of Latina – villages near Rome

The Province of Latina stretches south and towards the coast, packed with some of the best places to visit near Rome. While the provincial capital, Latina, is much more modern than the medieval Italian villages close by, there is plenty of good public transport to be found, and it won’t take you long to escape to coastal playgrounds and hilltop towns from the capital.

Certainly, these borghi could be day trips from Rome, but they will all invite you to slow down and stay a while, and with plenty of museums, delicious regional produce, and Roman artefacts to discover, you might just want to heed their invitation.

Why visit? Incredible medieval village on a hill packed with Caetani family history

Of all the medieval hilltop villages near Rome, Sermoneta has something special. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and oozing history from its narrow cobbled streets, the quick journey time and connecting bus make this one of the best day trips from Rome. However, personally, I think it’s a magical place to spend a night or two.

Well restored (and in parts, reconstructed), Sermoneta’s history is intricately linked with the Caetani family, who built the magnificent grand palace alongside the defensive walls.

Walking around, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the Middle Ages. From the wooden beamed Loggia dei Mercanti, an old hub of commercial activity constructed in 1446, to the frescoed-heavy interiors of the Chiesa di San Giuseppe and Oratorio dei Battenti, every corner seems to have another treasure to discover.

The Museo C’era Una Volta, housing the endless miniature works of Daniela Caruso, was an astounding find. With fully animated tiny models and scenes of local activities coming to life with the flip of a switch, it’s an absolute delight, as was Daniela, who invited me to join her family for lunch.

Of course, the castle is the star and dominates this village near Rome. Built by the Caetani (or Gaetani) family, as was much of the village, it tells the story of this noble Italian family. Hailing from nearby Gaeta, they were hugely successful in politics, most recognised with the election of Pope Boniface VIII in 1294.

Top tip: Visit on the weekends to ensure access inside the castle, and book your visit to The Garden of Ninfa in advance. 

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, you can take a 30-minute train to Latina station and then a bus (there may be a wait, so plan with the schedules) up to the village. To drive takes a little over an hour.

Where to stay? Sermoneta is certainly one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy I’ve visited, so I’d suggest soaking it all in by staying a little while, perhaps at the homely and historic B&B Le Principesse .

Fossanova (and Priverno)

Why visit? An ancient abbey escape coupled with a lived-in medieval town twin

The Abbey of Fossanova is one of the smallest villages near Rome, as the abbey and the borgo are one and the same. Constructed in 1135 and consecrated in 1208, for many years, the oldest Cistercian monastery in Italy stayed closed to the world, except for a guesthouse reserved for pilgrims and those passing by.

Later the walls fell (figuratively and literally), and now one of the best examples of early Gothic architecture in the country is open to all visitors, and perhaps you’ll even encounter a cheery monk as you wander around.

The limestone complex is grand yet simple in its decor, with some unique little details, such as a crown carved above the rounded window and an impressive mosaic nearby the cloisters. 

It’s a tranquil place to stay and rest, with a couple of cafes which are busy by day, as this is one of the most historical places near Rome to visit by train, the station a pleasant 25-minute stroll away.

Inside the old guesthouse, archaeological discoveries from the ancient Roman city of Privernum can be witnessed, with the collection continuing in Priveno’s city museum, the old medieval town nearby, which gained its name from the historic settlement.

Grand statues and sculptures, masterfully designed mosaics, and ornate wooden ceilings adorned with paintings decorate Priverno’s museum, and outside, on Piazza Giovanni XXIII, there’s an architectural feast. Flanked by the imposing arched portico of the Town Hall, with its arched portico and a grand staircase leading to the Cathedral, this is the beating heart of the commune, where people flock to enjoy drinks and local flavours.

Priveno’s menu of treats is delicious, with a heavy focus on buffalo produce, such as mozzarella and meats, multi-award-winning Orsini Olive Oil, and  Chiacchietegli di Priverno  (violet broccoli from Priverno). By night, this lived-in small Italian town is far more lively than Fossanova, with the narrow cobbled streets glowing under orange-lamps and the sound of laughter and enjoyment ringing through the air from restaurants and bars.

Top tip: Visit both the archaeological museums to learn as much about Privernum as possible, and try to arrange an advance visit to the archaeological site.

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, you can take a train to Fossanova-Priverno station and then a quick Cotral (or commune) bus to the village or town. The journey is around 80-minutes by both car or public transport.

Where to stay? At first glance, Fossanova’s small size makes it seem like a place for a fleeting visit, however, this is one of my favourite places I stayed exactly for that reason – it’s the perfect place to slow down and a fairly good base even if you are using public transport, as the local bus network connecting to the train station is decent. I loved our cute apartment in Casette Rosse , with plenty of space and a shaded balcony.

Why visit? A magical village by the sea with beaches, nightlife and plenty of architecture to enjoy

Gaeta was the only borgo I visited in Lazio that sits on the sparkling cyan waters of the Mediterranean. While the old part is one of the most magical villages near Rome to while away some days, the larger and newer section forms one of the most charming coastal small towns near Rome.

Separated from the beautiful bay of Serapo Beach and the bustling thoroughfare of Via della Indipendenza by Monte Orlando park, the old harbour-side part of Gaeta feels very tucked away.

High above in the wooded land of the mount, incredible viewpoints of Gaeta’s castle and borgo can be enjoyed. There’s also an impressive sanctuary here, known as the split mountain, where a narrow staircase descends to a chapel before climbing up to a unique viewpoint set in the cliff’s crack.

Constructed in the 11th century in honour of Saint Philip Neri, who lived here, the Sanctuary of Montagna Spaccata is just as much about the spectacular nature as prayer.

Inside the borgo proper, there’s an enchanting mix of viewpoints, homes above sheer-rock faces, lively and trendy bars with a youthful vibe, and many impressive architectural finds.

At the Santuario Della Santissima Annunziata, don’t miss the jaw-dropping Cappella dell Immacolata Concezione behind. This Renaissance Sistine gilded chapel is coated in gold, with impressive paintings by masters Scipione Pulzone and Giovanni Filippo Criscuolo. The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi’s tower, with its Islamic details, is equally as striking, while the Church of Saint Francis towers above, providing perhaps the village’s best viewpoint.

Top tip: Some museums and churches are only open during certain hours and on certain days, so check and plan ahead. 

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, you can take a train to Formia-Gaeta, and then a quick Cotral bus to the old centre. The journey time is around two hours by car and public transport.

Where to stay? Do yourself a favour and spend a few nights here. It’s a great place to chill on the beach and visit historical sights, but it also has a good evening energy and trendy bars, especially on the weekend. I made the mistake of just staying one night and then ended up coming back again at the end of the trip. For a beach-view stay, the simple rooms at Hotel Serapo sufficed (the upgrades to sea views were around €15 when we arrived as we had booked a normal room), or right in the Old Town, we got an amazing bargain at B&B La Gaetana , which has a terrace overlooking the tower and sea, by calling directly to the owner.

Further south: Province of Frosinone – places near Rome and Naples

Around halfway between Rome and Naples, the Province of Frosinone is the most southern part of Lazio, with the capital city being Frosinone. Perhaps the most famous attraction here is the Abbey of Montecassino, a vast complex atop the hill in Cassino, which, following its destruction in World War Two, has subsequently been rebuilt.

I spent most of my time here around the Valle di Comino, where some huge battles took place, but now it’s a serene setting of olive groves, mountains, and beautiful small villages near Rome.

This part of Lazio felt the most laid-back and rural, especially away from the larger towns. From sipping on delicious award-winning Cabernet in small Italian towns to visiting the ‘city of Cicero’ and devouring pasta in countryside agriturismos (rural farm accommodation), all your away-from-Rome dream Italian experiences are awaiting here.

Why visit? Historical ruins pre-dating the Romans, plenty of culture to discover, and a lively centre

Arpino has a peculiar form – but in a good way. I’d go as far as saying that the X-design of the settlement, which has been shaped over the centuries, makes it one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy, especially once you start diving into its history.

More extensive than most of the other villages near Rome, as the historical borgo part is actually the small, high-above L’Acropoli di Civitavecchia, there’s plenty of life and activity to be found in the streets.

From the medieval tower that crowns the Civitavecchia, you’ll get your bearings as Arpino rises up the mountains and spills out before you. You’ll also be looking down on the fortified polygonal   walls and ancient cyclopean pointed arch, free from mortar and still standing after more than 2500-years. This area had been inhabited since the Volscian days (around 1000 BC), with the local puddingstone quarries a reason many chose to build and construct here.

Following the trail to the lower part of Arpino, you’ll pass near the mines before arriving at the well-lived-in and colourful streets below. Here, walls are stacked high with stonework from different periods – pre-Roman, Roman and mediaeval – sometimes topped with more modern houses above.

These homes have been occupied by many of Arpino’s most influential citizens, from the Roman scholar, philosopher and statesman Cicero, to the Pantheon’s architect Marco Agrippa and the painter Giuseppe Cesari. 

Arpino is a cultured spot with a handful of museums and ancient sites. If you seek a small town in Italy to stay a while and soak up the good life, you won’t go wrong here. 

Top tip: Head to the Civitavecchia’s tower before 1 pm so you can climb it for the best views.

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, you can take a train to Cassino, and then a Cotral bus, the total journey time should be around three and a half hours. By car, it’s a little over an hour and a half, the same distance as from Naples.

Where to stay? Arpino is a great place to base yourself in the south, as there is plenty going on here. Historic Il Cavalier D’Arpino (it used to be a wool factory) provides a wonderfully grand stay with a pool a short walk from the centre. If you want to explore the valley by public transport, though, you may find Sora offers you better connections.

Why visit? Delicious wines, beautiful vineyard views, and a get-away-from-it-all feel 

If you are considering places to visit near Rome to stay a while and relax, little Atina will happily oblige. There isn’t too much to do here, but the central core of the medieval borgo has a handful of high-quality restaurants and even a few trendy bars (excellent Negronis) to enjoy, and you can even sleep in a palace.

Yes, Atina is one of those villages near Rome you come to get away from it all, and the sublime views of the cloud-hugged valley at sunrise, where mist rises above award-winning vineyards, remind you every morning you’ve made a good choice.

That’s not to say there isn’t a lively community here, though, and on Monday mornings, you’ll find the streets overflowing with the market, which expands far beyond the main square, as it has been doing since the 16th century.

There’s also an archaeological museum, though some of the most ancient and important treasures found here now live in Rome’s museum. Many of these artefacts came from Santo Stefano Hill, which rises next to the village, and although you can see the megalithic walls on a hike there, the most impressive site is the valley from the Cappella della Madonnella hugging its side.

After you’ve had your fill of palaces (there are a few here, including the 14th-century mosaic-displaying town hill), settle into one of the local vineyards to sip on rich ruby-red Cabernets. Having achieved DOP status (Protected Designation of Origin), you can expect quality wines from these aged vines, and the backdrop adds to the flavour.

Top tip: Get up early to hike Santo Stefano Hill at sunrise; the low clouds and magnificent views from the chapel are worth it. 

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, you can take a train to Cassino, and then a Cotral bus, the total journey time should be just over three hours. By car, it’s a 100-minute drive, around the same as from Naples.

Where to stay? While Atina could be visited in half a day, or you’ll need more hours if done as a day trip from Rome, the views of the valley are a serene place to rest, and the converted palace of Palazzo del Senatore has amazing views from the breakfast terrace, though I found the attic rooms a little cramped with the low ceilings and lack of regal features, so for the full palatial experience, opt for the upgrade.

San Donato Val di Comino

Why visit? To slow down amongst the stunning setting against the mountains overlooking the Comino Valley

If you’re seeking a dreamy image of those beautiful small villages in Italy which simply cry out to be enjoyed, then San Donato Val di Comino is calling your name.

Of all the villages near Rome I explored, it was here I was most able to dive into Lazio’s modern regional history, the deepest, thanks to the fantastic, modern, and well-curated museum which recently opened here.

The Museum of the Twentieth Century and the Shoah focuses on the battles which took place in the forested mountains backing the villages, when 1000s of English soldiers hid among the undergrowth, battling with the approaching German soldiers in the valley. Most moving and hardest to digest are the stories of the Jewish community that arrived here, many stripped of their documents and hidden in local houses.

As you walk the tranquil streets and mountain trails nowadays, it’s hard to imagine such terror and misery in this calm village near Rome, although monuments and war-location reminders are still visible.

Once a complete castle village surrounded by double fortified walls, from the highest point, you can enjoy a magnificent panorama across the olive oil groves and valley below. While the tower is shorter than it once was, the 14th-century church alongside it (a friendly neighbour has the key) has grown, and the frescoes inside are impressive.

My favourite thing about San Donato Val di Comino though, was spending time in its ‘living room’ – the main village square where locals, cats and travellers convene to share stories over coffee, beers and homemade wine. This is the magic of those slower-paced trips to small Italian towns, and I was eager to soak in every second of it.

Top tip: Don’t miss the Museum of the Twentieth Century; it’s an excellent, modern, and thought-provoking experience.

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, you can take a train to Cassino, and then a Cotral bus, the total journey time will be between three and four hours. By car, it takes a little under two hours to drive, or from Naples, it’s 90-minutes.

Where to stay? San Donato Val di Comino deserves at least an overnight stay and would make a good base for exploring the valley. While I didn’t stay here myself, I did have lunch in the serene setting of Agriturismo La Fattoria , which also offers rooms in the converted farmhouse. 

Heading north: Province of Rieti – places to visit near Rome

The capital of Rieti Province also goes by the same name, and the valley here is a verdant retreat ripe with cycling, horse riding, and hiking adventures – plus some water sport options such as bird watching by the lakes and rafting down the rivers. Once, the whole valley was submerged until the Romans learnt how to drain the water, and they left plenty of legacies. Perhaps the most fascinating for a visitor is Rieti Underground, which you can visit on an evening tour, one of the places to visit near Rome that isn’t a borgo. 

If you don’t have a car and want to explore the province and small Italian towns around, then Rieit is a good base. Alternatively, there are plenty of walking trails to get around, the most famous being the Saint Francis Walk, part of the much longer Via Francigena .

Why visit? For the religious sanctuary and nativity scene connections with Saint Francis

Unsurprisingly, many of the villages near Rome have religious connections, but Greccio perhaps has the reason to be proudest. It was here, nearly 800 years ago, that the first-ever nativity scene was created, shaping Christmas as we know it today.

The ‘Sacred Valley of Rieti’ was a favourite place of San Francesco (Saint Francis of Assisi), who came to this tranquil setting for meditation and prayer. Following in his footsteps nowadays are many pilgrims completing the Saint Francis Walk alongside those who simply seek out the stunning nature without the religious connotations.

You’ll find a cluster of spacious streets inside the village, all topped with a grand church boasting magnificent panoramas. There’s also a walking trail, the Path of the Artists, through the hamlet, linking religious frescoes and paintings which adorn people’s homes together. The historical connection with the birth scene of Jesus is also celebrated, with the International Nativity Museum displaying hand-crafted scenes from all across the world, which, even if you’re not overly into religious art, can be appreciated for their detailed work.

On a hill opposite, casting its eye across the borgo, is the Santuario Francescano del Presepe di Greccio. It’s here that Saint Francis came to pray, although in his time, it was sleeping under rocky caverns and seeking silence, and the grand complex came much later. Inside the small chapel, you can see where he made the original birth scene, and a much larger modern church gives the complex its splendour from afar.

Top tip: When walking the streets of Greccio, try and spot (and peek inside) the workshops of the nativity scene makers

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, you can either take the Cotral bus to Rieti and then change to the Greccio bus, or a train to Terni and then a second train (but note the train station isn’t so close). The quickest journey by public transport is around two and a half hours. By car, Greccio is around two hours from Rome.

Where to stay? Greccio is pretty small as a village itself, with most of this village near Rome’s attractions being in the surrounding valley walks and the sanctuary. Clean and affordable rooms – mainly aimed at walkers and pilgims – can be found at Oasi Gesù Bambino . As a more upmarket alternative, the Abbey accommodation suggested for Contigliano (below) is also close to here.

Contigliano

Why visit? Quaint, rounded village surrounded by gorgeous valley and river countryside 

Contigliano is another of the villages near Rome overlooking the Rieti Valley and is easily combined together with Greccio. In fact, many of the natural attractions and activities, such as horse riding, and birdwatching on the lakes, fall between the two borghi, meaning they could be combined into a long day trip near Rome, though the gorgeous setting might lure you into staying some nights.

Capping a low hill, Contigliano’s medieval streets offer fantastic views over the Rieti Plains, where cannellini beans are grown, and hiking and biking trails crisscross the lush farmlands. With history from the Bronze Age period, and churches dotting the nearby landscape from the Middle Ages, small Contigliano doesn’t shy away from sharing its own slice of history.

In the old village core, the streets are a delight to explore – although the compact size means it won’t take long. Perhaps the most impressive building, the Collegiata di san Michele Arcangelo, a baroque-style church with a grand facade, is a testament to the community’s spirit, as it was constructed using villagers’ funds rather than money from the church.

Down in the valley below, the lakes of Riserva dei Laghi Lungo e Ripasottile are a serene spot for a stroll and bird watching, while alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Santa Susanna spring in Rivodutri you’ll find a picnic stop haven.

Top tip: Book a packrafting adventure with 42 Gradi Nord to experience the river.

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, you can either take the Cotral bus to Rieti and then change to the Labro bus, or a train to Terni and then a second train, the quickest journey is around two and a half hours. By car, Contigliano is about two hours from Rome.

Where to stay? Contigliano and Greccio could be combined into a day trip from Rome, however, these small villages in Italy, especially when coupled with the valley and Rieti itself, make for a relaxing longer trip. Abbazia di San Pastore provides lavish and historic rooms in a huge heritage building a short drive from the village.

Why visit? Stunning setting perched high above a lake with adorable stone streets

The story of Labro’s return to glory is an interesting one. After World War Two, this medieval hilltop borgo was falling into disrepair. The traditional stone houses were crumbling, residents were departing for better futures, and it seemed that Labro’s destiny was to be like many of the other ghost towns now found across Italy.

Luckily, the fate of this village near Rome changed thanks to the owner of the borgo’s castle and her architect husband, who set about restoring the whole hamlet to the original design. With the return of some 400 residents, Labro came back to life and now, entering the historic core, you almost wouldn’t know what could have nearly been.

Sadly, the weather wasn’t on my side when I visited Labro, but that didn’t stop me from being enchanted by this small town in Italy. Umbrella in hand, I wandered the web of light-stone houses, churches, watchtowers and chapels, seeing how restoration had brought new leases of life, such as churches converted into theatres. Crowning the village is the family-owned Castello Nobili Vitelleschi, which you can enter and tour accompanied by the daughter of the current noble owner.

From the castle’s turret, wonderful vistas of the verdant-enveloped Lago di Piediluco span before you while the historical archives hold treasures of their own. Documents from as far back as 1191 and even signed by the pope form part of the family’s collection, with a 17th-century handwritten account of the borgo’s history particularly fascinating.

Top tip: Book your visit to the Castello Nobili Vitelleschi and be sure to eat (or visit the delicatessen) of Radici Restaurant.

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, the best connection is to take a Cotral bus to Rieti and then change to the Labro bus; the quickest journey is around two and a half hours. By car, Labro is a two-hour drive from Rome.

Where to stay? Labro is one of the most serene places to visit near Rome (if you ask me), so it would also be a lovely place to stay a while and slow down – which is helpful, as many of the small accommodation providers here have minimum stays and renovated Casa Luce is one such place.

Further north: Province of Viterbo – places near Rome and Florence

The most northern province in Lazio, Viterbo, is awash with cute villages that aren’t too far from Rome, and many of the borghi here have Erutscean roots. The Etruria people , who predated the Romans, reached the peak of their civilisation in the 6th century BC, but their story goes back centuries further. After the Romans came, this region was renamed Tuscia, and the countryside and rolling hills certainly give the area a Tuscany-like feel. 

First, you should explore the medieval core of the provincial capital Viterbo , one of the best places near Rome to visit by train, before venturing to the beautiful small towns of Italy in the surrounding area. Viterbo is also a good base if you don’t have a car, with plenty of local bus connections. Also, consider heading to Civita di Bagnoregio, another breathtaking borgo that, sadly, I didn’t have time to visit on this trip.

Vitorchiano

Why visit? Incredible volcanic rock-topped villages dotted with history and statues

One of the most beautiful small towns in Italy (according to me, at least), Vitorchiano is a breathtaking place that merges with the volcanic rock below. Sheer buildings climb up the side decorated with hanging laundry, and the whole thing looks like a movie set.

Set behind crenellated defensive walls is the historic borgo part of Vitorchiano, which has expanded to include a ‘newer’ town. Inside, ancient houses dating back to the medieval period (and even before) sit on narrow alleyways that somehow always lead you back to the town’s square and old clock tower.

Outside the walls, there are two places you shouldn’t miss. First, the Valle delle Sculture, which sits below with aged-shaped stones, and second, the Rapa Nui-carved Moai statue, crafted from the local volcanic  peperino  rock by a family of Easter Islanders. From here, you’ll also get a magnificent view of the steep sides of the village.

If you’re feeling hungry, be sure to order the most famous local dish,  Cavatelli Vitorchianesi , a thick spaghetti-like pasta resembling an earthworm and topped with a rich tomato sauce. As far as villages near Rome go, this one is a real winner!

Top tip: If you wish to visit the Town Hall museum, come on the weekend.

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, take a train to Orte or Viterbo and then a Cotral bus; the journey takes around two hours. By car, Vitorchiano is 90-minutes from Rome or two and a half hours from Florence. 

Where to stay? Many of the places to stay in Vitorchiano are private home rentals, which are handy as here would make a good base for a few nights exploring the Province of Viterbo. While this is a fantastic day trip near Rome, it’s a bit further away, so you might want to stay for a few nights.

Why visit? The nearby Etruscan Pyramid and Sacro Bosco’s fascinating statues

The historic part of Bomarzo might be one of the smallest villages near Rome, but in its surroundings, there are some rather unique attractions to discover.

Here, the Etruscans had a stronghold and, before the Romans, shaped the lands. Perhaps the most apparent discovery relating to this period is the Etruscan Pyramid, which was only discovered in 1991. Later, in 2008, Salvatore Fosci, a local of Bomarzo, set about to clear the weeds and vegetation that had kept this ancient site closed off to visitors and started leading tours here. 

Another intriguing attraction, carved from the local  peperino  stone but built much later, is the Park of Monsters, known as the Sacro Bosco.

This garden complex which was shaped by the statues in the 16th century displays the work of sculptor Simone Moschino. Around 40 figures, from the mythical to the obscene, are dotted around the walking path, each seemingly more imposing than the last. 

The compact medieval core of Bomarzo sits above the park, and while it won’t take long to explore the streets, a trip here combined with the nearby attractions shows why small-town Italy shouldn’t be underestimated.  

Top tip: Try to ask the Town Hall staff if they will show you some of the grand rooms in the building, which is the Palazzo Orsini.

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, take a train to Orte or Viterbo and then a Cotral bus; the journey can take as little as one hour. By car, Bomarzo is 90-minutes from Rome or just over two hours from Florence. 

Where to stay? If you want to stay in a super peaceful and small town in Italy, then Bomarzo does the trick – although perhaps basing yourself in Viterbo will make getting around by public transport easier.

Bassano in Teverina

Why visit? Medieval village vibes coupled with an impeccable hidden tower discovery

Even before a fascinating discovery was made, medieval Bassano in Teverina was already one of Italy’s most beautiful small towns. The ancient streets, Roman-built laundry fountains, and 12th-century church are a delight, but there’s also a secret here that was nearly lost to time.

Inside the 16th-century tower, a simple structure that rises dramatically next to the hamlet’s entrance lies a true hidden gem of Italy. The Torre dell’Orologio wasn’t discovered until 1974, when repair works took place, but boy, it was one big discovery.

Inside the tower, a perfectly preserved bell tower was found, which had been hidden in plain sight for centuries, unbeknown to the villagers. This incredible and ornate 12th-century find, which would have sat alongside the church, was excavated over the coming years, and now, you can enter inside and climb to the top for sweeping panoramas. However, the true magic is the original architecture.

While parts of this village near Rome were destroyed after the war when a passing train full of explosives detonated in the valley, much has been reconstructed, with more work planned to ensure the borgo’s history is all brought back to life. The new part of the town is also full of life, so you can enjoy the community here without feeling like you’re in one of Italy’s ghost villages.

Top tip: Book your visit to the Torre dell’Orologio in advance with the town’s InfoPoint, as you’ll need to enter with a guide.

How to get there? By public transport from Rome, take a train to Orte or Viterbo and then a Cotral bus; the journey can take as little as one hour. By car, Bassano in Teverina is 90-minutes from Rome or two and a half hours from Florence. 

Where to stay? If you have a car and want to tour some of the best villages in Lazio, then the rural retreat of L’Olivo Country Club , peeping up at the village above from the lush gardens and pool, is a nice place to unwind for a while. I only had lunch here, but after having a snoop around the grounds, I wished we had booked in for a few nights.

Looking to explore beyond the region of Lazio? Consider heading further north to devour the foodie paradise that is Emilia Romagna , or diving into some of Italy’s hidden gems around the country.

This article was written in collaboration with iambassador for the ‘Viaggio Italiano’ Project (Italian National Tourist Board, Ministry of Tourism & Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces) following my own tour of the region in Autumn 2022.

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This is a treasure trove of data about Lazio, very hard to find anyone who writes about Lazio outside of Rome.

Glad it’s helpful, Antony. Cheers!

Fantastic! I am planning to go back to Rome and I am happy to see there is so much to see also around.

Italy is so stunning.

It’s just amazing, I’ve been around Rome and Lazio many times and now I realise that I didn’t really enjoy them! I’ll have to go back in a few months. Thanks!!

What a wonderful article! thank you very much for all this information about Italy!

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