While the allure of Rome, with its ancient wonders and vibrant culture, is undeniable, the surrounding region offers a treasure trove of equally captivating destinations. Within a few hours’ drive of the Eternal City, you’ll discover charming towns, significant archaeological sites, idyllic villas, lush gardens, and inviting beaches, each promising a unique and enriching experience. Whether you seek to delve deeper into history, immerse yourself in nature, or simply escape the urban bustle, these day trips provide an opportunity to enhance your Italian adventure and venture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.
Many of these destinations are easily accessible on your own, allowing for independent exploration at your own pace. Alternatively, guided tours are readily available through platforms like Viator, offering a structured and informative experience for those who prefer traveling with a group. To maximize your time, plan for early departures from Rome and return in the evening, ensuring a full day of discovery and adventure. Let’s embark on a journey to explore The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome.
1. Vatican City: Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel
Often perceived as an integral part of Rome, Vatican City is, in fact, an independent nation, the world’s smallest, sharing a modest two-mile border with Italy. Your exploration begins at Piazza di Ponte Sant’Angelo, a picturesque square leading to the iconic Castel Sant’Angelo, a former mausoleum transformed into a papal fortress. Consider a brief visit to the Castel before proceeding down Via Della Conciliazione, a grand avenue that culminates at St. Peter’s Square, the awe-inspiring gateway to St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, stands as a testament to human artistry and spiritual devotion. Its colossal dome, designed by Michelangelo, dominates the skyline, while the interior is adorned with breathtaking sculptures, mosaics, and intricate details.
A short distance away lie the Vatican Museums, a sprawling complex housing an unparalleled collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries. Here, you’ll encounter Michelangelo’s celebrated Sistine Chapel, its ceiling adorned with iconic frescoes depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis. The museums also showcase masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, and countless other renowned artists. Allocate at least half a day to fully appreciate the vast art collections and immerse yourself in the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Getting There: Enjoy a scenic walk as described above, or take Line A of the Metro to the Ottaviano–S. Pietro station, a mere five-minute stroll from St. Peter’s Square.
Travel Tip: Admission to the Vatican Museums is free on the last Sunday of the month; however, be prepared for larger crowds.
2. Via Appia Antica: The Appian Way Road and Catacombs
"All roads lead to Rome," a familiar adage that finds its embodiment in the Via Appia Antica, the oldest road in Italy. This ancient thoroughfare once connected the Roman Empire from Rome to the port city of Brindisi, serving as a vital artery for trade, communication, and military movements. Today, a portion of this historic road is preserved within the Parco Regionale Dell’Appia Antica, a regional park that invites visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of ancient Rome.
Spend a few hours exploring Appia Antica Regional Park, whether by leisurely stroll or invigorating bicycle ride. Along the way, discover significant historical sites, including the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and San Callisto, subterranean burial chambers that offer a glimpse into early Christian history. Admire the ancient city gates at Porta San Sebastiano, the Circus of Maxentius, the Church of Domine Quo Vadis, and the Tomb of Cecelia Metella, each a testament to the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire.
For a delightful break, consider lunch at Ristorante Cecilia Metella, a charming establishment offering outdoor seating during pleasant weather.
Getting There: A 15-minute drive from Rome. For public transportation, take Metro A to San Giovanni, then the 218 bus.
Travel Tip: Visit on a Sunday when much of the Appian Way Road is closed to vehicular traffic, allowing for a more immersive and pedestrian-friendly experience.
3. Ostia Antica: Rome’s Ancient Port City
The ruins of Ostia Antica, part of the Parco Archeologico di Ostia Antica, provide a captivating glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans. As Rome’s former port city, Ostia Antica was a bustling hub of commerce, trade, and cultural exchange. Exploring its well-preserved ruins offers a unique perspective on how ancient inhabitants constructed the empire’s grandest cities.
Dedicate several hours to wander through the ancient streets, shops, and houses of this expansive complex, which typically attracts fewer tourists than Pompeii. Discover archaeological treasures such as the Roman theater, an ancient bakery, communal toilets, and streets and alleyways dating back to the 7th century B.C.
Getting There: A 40-minute drive or a 90-minute train ride from Rome. Take Metro Line B to Piramide or Magliana, then the Ostia Lido train.
Travel Tip: Parco Archeologico di Ostia Antica is closed on Mondays; plan your visit accordingly.
4. Ostia Lido: A Day at the Beach
For a refreshing escape from Rome’s summer heat, Ostia Lido offers the closest beach destination. Located a mere 15-minute drive from Ostia Antica, it presents an ideal opportunity to combine historical exploration with relaxation by the sea.
While perhaps not as glamorous as some of Italy’s more renowned beaches, Ostia Lido offers a pleasant resort town atmosphere with private beach areas available for day use, as well as public sections where you can simply spread out a towel and soak up the sun.
Getting There: A 40-minute drive from Rome, or take the Roma Lido train from Roma Ostiense station in approximately 35 minutes.
Travel Tip: For a wider selection of beaches, consider venturing a bit further north or south of Rome to destinations such as Sperlonga Beach, Santa Marinella Beach, or Anzio Beach.
5. Tivoli: Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa
Venture east to Tivoli to discover two exceptional UNESCO World Heritage sites: Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa. Villa d’Este, a magnificent 16th-century Renaissance-style villa, is renowned for its exquisite gardens and elaborate fountains. Its meticulously designed landscape showcases a harmonious blend of art, nature, and engineering.
A short bus ride away lies Villa Adriana (Hadrian’s Villa), a sprawling complex created by Emperor Hadrian during the second century. This vast estate encompasses impressive theaters, ancient baths, and several Greek and Latin libraries, reflecting the emperor’s intellectual curiosity and appreciation for diverse cultures.
At Villa d’Este, be sure to admire the Fountain of Neptune, Fontana della Proserpina, Fontana del Bicchierone, Fontana dell’Organo, Fontana dell’Ovata (also called Fontana di Tivoli), and Vialle delle Cento Fontane ("Avenue of 100 Fountains"). Then, hop on a shuttle to Hadrian’s Villa to explore the 300-acre complex.
Getting There: Tivoli is approximately a 35-minute drive or 50-minute train ride from the Roma Tiburtina Station. From Tivoli’s main square, a shuttle provides convenient access to Hadrian’s Villa, about a 10-minute drive away.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss Villa Gregoriana, located east of Villa d’Este, where you can visit a temple dedicated to Vesta, a stunning waterfall, and picturesque gorges within Parco Gregoriana.
6. Orvieto: Umbria’s Famed Etruscan Hill Town
Perched dramatically atop tufa cliffs, the Umbrian hill town of Orvieto presents an unforgettable sight. Inhabited since Etruscan times, Orvieto’s monuments and museums chronicle millennia of history. The town’s stunning Duomo (cathedral), with its mosaic facade, is considered one of the finest medieval monuments in Italy. Orvieto also boasts an array of shops and restaurants where you can savor the culinary delights of the Umbria region.
Visit St. Patrick’s Well (Pozzo di San Patrizio), an impressive Etruscan well dating back to the 16th century. Ascend Torre del Morro for breathtaking panoramic views of the Italian countryside, admire Orvieto’s beautiful Gothic cathedral, and stroll along the town’s charming medieval streets.
Getting There: A little over an hour’s drive from Rome. A funicular connects the station and lower town with the medieval center above.
Travel Tip: Discover even more Etruscan ruins at the Temple of Belvedere, Necropolis, and Museo Claudio Faina.
7. Tarquinia: Famous Frescoes and Tombs
Tarquinia, situated northeast of Rome, is renowned for its Etruscan tombs and the excellent Etruscan Museum. The town also features a charming medieval center, with frescoes dating back to 1508 adorning its Cathedral.
Begin your visit at the tourist information center in Piazza Cavour before proceeding to the archaeological museum, Museo Archaeologico, housed in Palazzo Vitelleschi. Your ticket includes admission to the Necropolis, where over 6,000 Etruscan tombs were excavated and decorated with frescoes, some dating from the 6th and 2nd centuries B.C.
Getting There: Tarquinia is accessible in approximately 90 minutes by car or train on the Roma-Ventimiglia line via the Roma Termini station; the journey is 15 minutes shorter from the Roma Ostiense station.
Travel Tip: Explore nearby Norchia to witness Etruscan tombs carved into the cliffside, or Sutri, home to an ancient amphitheater.
8. Frascati and Castelli Romani: Volcanic Hill Towns
Frascati, nestled in the hills approximately 13 miles south of Rome, forms part of the Colli Albani and Castelli Romani area, a volcanic complex of hills and lakes that has long been favored by wealthy Romans as a summer retreat. Today, Frascati is known as the City of Wine and provides a delightful escape from Rome’s summer heat.
Begin your Frascati adventure at Villa Aldobrandini, where you can visit Scuderie Aldobrandini, the restored former stables that now house the Museo Tuscolano, a local history museum. Explore the gardens before continuing to the Cattedrale di San Pietro, where the heart of Bonnie Prince Charlie (Charles Edward Stuart) is interred. If traveling by car, consider a visit to Tusculum to view the 4th-century ruins of an ancient villa and amphitheater.
Getting There: Frascati is reachable from the Roma Termini station in approximately 30 minutes.
Travel Tip: Other Castelli Romani volcanic hill towns worth exploring as day trips include Grottaferrata (known for its abbey), Marino (a popular spot for caves and hunting), and Castel Gandolfo (home to the Pope’s summer palace).
9. Sabina (Sabine Hills): Medieval Villages and Cooking Classes
Embark on a day trip to the Sabine Hills, a picturesque region dotted with medieval towns, ancient monasteries, and historic castles, most easily explored by car.
Popular destinations include Fara Sabina, Toffia, Farfa, Montopoli, and Bocchignano. Castle enthusiasts should visit Rocca Sinibaldi, home to Castel Cesarini, dating back to 1084 A.D., and Frasso Sabino, home to Castel Sforza, dating back to 955 A.D.
Getting There: The train to Fara in Sabina takes under an hour, while the drive from Rome’s city center is approximately an hour.
Travel Tip: For an immersive culinary experience, Convivio Rome Italian Cooking Holidays offers half-day cooking classes in a private Italian home, as well as extended tours focusing on olive oil and regional wines.
10. Florence: A Trip into Tuscany
Although Florence warrants a longer visit, a day trip can still provide a rewarding overview of this cultural capital. Begin at Piazza del Duomo to visit the Baptistery, Campanile (Bell Tower), and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, where stained glass windows were crafted by Donatello. Climb the 463 steps to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome for panoramic city views.
History enthusiasts will appreciate Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio, home to some of the city’s oldest sections and replicas of famous statues, including Michelangelo’s David. To see the original, visit the nearby Galleria dell’Academia. Art lovers should also explore the Uffizi Gallery, showcasing Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
Getting There: A three-hour drive from Rome, but high-speed trains can reach Florence in under 1.5 hours. The historic city center is a 15-minute walk from Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station.
Travel Tip: Pre-book tickets online for popular attractions like Galleria dell’Academia and the Uffizi Gallery to avoid long queues.
11. Pisa: The Leaning Tower and So Much More
If you’ve dreamt of capturing the iconic photo at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, now is your chance. Head to Piazza del Duomo, a 20-minute walk from Pisa Centrale train station. Climb the 183-foot tower or explore the Cathedral, Baptistery, and cemetery.
For a relaxing day, purchase fresh ingredients at the Mercato delle Vettovaglie market and enjoy an Italian-style picnic in Piazza del Duomo or the Botanical Garden of Pisa, established by the Medici family in 1544.
Getting There: Pisa is about two hours and 15 minutes from Rome by train (to Pisa Centrale station) or four hours by car. The city is easily walkable.
Travel Tip: Stroll along Borgo Stretto or visit Santa Maria Della Spina to admire its 13th-century Gothic architecture.
12. Naples: The Best Pizza in Italy
Naples is renowned for its pizza, which many consider the best in Italy. Sample pizza a portafoglio (folded pizza) as you stroll along Spaccanapoli, or savor Neapolitan pizza at one of the city’s top restaurants. In 2017, the art of pizza making was officially listed as a culinary art on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.
Explore the Duomo, which houses two vials of patron saint San Gennaro’s blood, and the 14th-century Santa Chiara Church, home to a monastery, archaeological museum, and tombs. Discover Greco-Roman ruins beneath the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore, explore ancient castles, admire artwork by Titian, Botticelli, and Raphael at the Capodimonte Museum, and enjoy a funicular ride.
Getting There: A two-hour drive or a little over an hour by train from Rome.
Travel Tip: Purchase a Naples Pass if visiting several attractions, including Pompeii or Herculaneum, to save on admission and transportation fees.
13. Pompeii: Historic Ruins by an Epic Volcano
Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, is a popular day trip from Rome and Naples. Witness the remnants of the city destroyed by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius on August 25, 79 A.D.
Pompeii offers a glimpse into the past, with intact frescoes and mosaic floors in Roman homes, and plaster casts of people and animals caught in the moment of the eruption. The city is vast, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk between excavation sites and educational areas.
Getting There: Pompeii is about 2.5 hours from Rome by car or train (to the Pompei Scavi or Pompei Santuario stop). A SITA bus between Naples and Salerno stops at Piazza Esedra in Pompeii.
Travel Tip: TickItaly offers a three-day pass including public transportation from Naples and admission to Pompeii, plus one more excavation site (Herculaneum or Baia Archaeological Park).
14. Capri: Beyond the Blue Grotto
While famous for its sea caves, like the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), Capri offers Roman ruins, gardens, monasteries, beaches, and views from Anacapri and Mount Solaro.
Explore the ruins and gardens of Villa San Michele in Anacapri, gaze at the Faraglioni rock formations, or savor limoncello and traditional dishes like ravioli Caprese, wood-fired pizza, or Caprese salads.
Getting There: From Rome, travel to Naples by car or train (2.5 hours), then take a 45-minute ferry from Molo Beverello or Calata Porta di Massa ports to Capri.
Travel Tip: Capri has limited roads, so rely on public transportation, taxis, or funiculars.
