4 Best Day Trips from Rome

Tivoli is a beautiful mountain town filled with historical sites and gardens. Located in the Monti Tiburtini hills, Tivoli was a resort town for wealthy Romans who were fleeing the notoriously hot Roman summers. It was also a must-see destination during The Grand Tour for its two UNESCO heritage sites, Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana. Your best bet is to take the train to get there; buses are a bit unreliable and can be packed to the gills during the summer.

What’s this place all about?
The Roman Emperor Hadrian built this villa as his country estate. Its ruins are recognized as his greatest artistic achievement and bear UNESCO World Heritage status. Tickets cost eight euros and are available on-site.

What’s it like being there?
Though not much of the villa itself remains, the archeological remnants and 18th-century statues create an awe-inspiring aura.

Who comes here?
Visitors tend to be a mix of Romans and tourists who've already seen Rome's major sights and want to dig deeper.

Did it meet expectations?
This is a spectacular archeological site with beautiful gardens extending 80 hectares. The Maritime Theater—an artificial island built as the emperor's private residence—is worth seeking out.

What, or who, do you think it’s best for?
Archeology lovers and history buffs will be drawn to this historically charged site, but it's also nice if you just want a stroll in the fresh air. Just be aware that it's all outside, so don't come if the weather is lousy.

What’s the vibe here?
Wandering around the grounds, with its beautiful flowers and elaborate fountains, might inspire you to ditch your life back home and buy a crumbling old villa to fix up. The other visitors were very polite and diligently took selfies posing in front of the impressive fountains.

Any standout features or must-sees?
This Renaissance villa, located near the famous Villa Adriana, is best known for its massive, elaborately landscaped gardens.

What—and who—is this best for?
This is definitely an inspiring—and romantic—place to spend an afternoon. Stop by the ticket office on your way in to purchase a ticket for eight euros.

What’s this place all about?
This medieval castle built by Pope Pius II is a major landmark in Tivoli. The inside is off limits, so you'll have to admire it from the outside.

What’s it like being there?
This imposing fortress constructed in 1461 with four turrets may inspire some somber reflection. It was used as a prison until the 1960s.

Who comes here?
Most people just pass by and snap some photos on their way to the Villa d'Este or Villa Adriana.

Did it meet expectations?
It's not much of a destination, but a landmark to take note of as you explore the historic center of Tivoli.

What, or who, do you think it’s best for?
The inside is closed to the public, so this is just a quick stop for a photo opp on the way to Tivoli's more famous sites.

Tell us about your first impressions when you arrived.
This restaurant, poised on top of the acropolis overlooking the Temple of Vesta, has been around since 1720—you can feel its historic character as soon as you walk through the door. The vibe inside is elegant, with parquet floors and white-napped tables, but the outdoor terrace with views of the Aniene River is the place to be.

What was the crowd like?
Everyone from Princess Margaret to Yoko Ono has dined here, so the restaurant's reputation precedes it. (Reservations are definitely recommended.) Expect a lively atmosphere as the place fills up with visitors from Rome and beyond.

What should we be drinking?
You might want to start with an aperitivo of Prosecco or an Aperol Spritz, but most people order wine with their lunch or dinner.

What should we be eating?.
The food is a delicious array of Italian specialties, with pastas and seafood playing starring roles. Don't neglect the antipasti, though: options like shrimp-and-squid ravioli with cherry tomatoes, pork with roasted potatoes, and Roman-style artichokes are served on a three-tiered platter.

How did the front-of-house folks treat you?
The staff are pros who make service look like an art.

What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here?
Between its rich history, gorgeous atmosphere, excellent food and great service, this is a great place to impress your future spouse or celebrate a special occasion.

What’s the vibe here?
This picturesque park maintained by F.A.I. (Fondo Ambiente Italiano) offers a manicured version of wild nature that drew artists and writers away from the sights of Rome in the 19th century. It's definitely a feast for the eyes but is a decent workout too, with a trail leading you past a waterfall, caves, grottos, and up and down lots of stairs.

Any standout features or must-sees?
The major draw is the waterfall, which was a regular stop on the Grand Tours of the 1800s. The view looking out over the temple and waterfall is said to be one of the most painted landscapes on earth.

Was it easy to get around?
Once inside the park, follow a trail that loops around the waterfall. It's a pleasant walk amid beautiful nature, but has a lot of steps, which could pose a problem for people with mobility issues.

What—and who—is this best for?
F.A.I. recommends one-and-a-half to two hours to do the full loop around the park, so it might not be worth going if you're short on time or have trouble walking.

What’s this place all about?
The ruins of a circular temple from the first century B.C. is one of Italy's most famous archeological landmarks—or rather, it was in the 19th century, when Americans and Brits flocked here on the Grand Tour.

What’s it like being there?
Italy is chock full of ancient ruins, including impressive sites like the Colosseum, but this temple is one of the country's most painted landmarks, admired by writers like Henry James. Turner was just one of many artists who came here to sketch it.

Who comes here?
Today, history buffs and archeology fans seek out this ancient temple.

Did it meet expectations?
Art history fans might recognize it from paintings by Claude Lorraine and other artists. It might make you want to embark on your own Grand Tour to delve deeper into Italy's historic riches.

What, or who, do you think it’s best for?
You don't need to spend a lot of time here to appreciate the beauty of this ancient temple, but if you've come all the way to Tivoli, it's worth seeking out.

The Castelli Romani are located in the Alban Hills southeast of Rome. There are seventeen of these small, delightful towns and they have drawn wealthy and notable Romans to these hills for centuries. Each town has its own flavor, but all are known for their awe-inspiring views, delicious food and wine, art, and architecture.

Tell me: What’s this place all about?
If you thought the Vatican was grand, wait until you see the Papal Summer Palace on Lake Albano. About an hour southeast of Rome in the region known as the Castelli Romani, the palace sprawls over 55 hectares of gardens, including Pope Benedict's organic farm. Pope Francis first allowed visitors to access the gardens in 2014; in 2016, he opened 20 rooms in the palace. Tickets cost 11 euros and can be bought online.

What’s it like being there?
That old adage, "if these walls could talk" rings especially true here. This grandiose palace holds centuries of secrets, having witnessed Jewish refugees being hidden by Pope Pius XII during WWII, the death of Popes Pius XII and Paul VI, and Pope John Paul II hanging out in his swimsuit by the pool he built.

Is there a guide involved?
An audioguide comes included with the price of a ticket.

Did it meet expectations?
You don't have to be Catholic to appreciate the beautiful gardens, but it might make you dubious about how many popes adhered to the Christian principles of living humbly.

So, then, what, or who, do you think it’s best for?
You'll probably want a couple of hours to see the interiors and explore the gardens, so it might not be worth a visit if you're short on time.

How did it strike you on arrival?
Surrounded by gardens and rolling hills, this charming agriturismo is just 40 minutes outside of Rome but feels a world away. Out here, you're surrounded by the olive groves and vineyards of Frascati, whose wines have D.O.C.G. status (the highest designation for Italian wines). A farmhouse built in the early 20th century lies at the heart of the property, and on a clear day, you can see the Cupola of St. Peter's in the distance.

What’s the crowd like?
You might encounter day trippers from Rome touring the vineyards or oenophiles from farther afield staying on the property.

The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
Rooms in the farmhouse are simply furnished with tile floors, rustic furnishings, and balconies. They range in size from single rooms to apartment-style suites with kitchenettes.

Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
The hotel provides free Wi-Fi.

Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.
The winery is the real standout feature of this property, and many people come just to tour it for an afternoon without staying at the inn. You can book a guided tour and tasting paired with local cheeses and salumi for a pleasant afternoon in the countryside.

What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?
The hotel isn't winning any design awards, but you're not here for a fashionable stay; you're here for the food and wine.

Bottom line: worth it, and why?
This agriturismo in Frascati is a great option if you want a countryside escape with great food and wine less than an hour from Rome.

Tell me: What’s this place all about?
This impressive baroque palazzo renovated by Gian Lorenzo Bernini was once home to the powerful Chigi family, one of the most important Italian Papal dynasties. Famed director Luchino Visconti filmed scenes from The Leopard here in 1963, and the place looks the same now as it did then.

What’s it like being there?
This baroque palace flies under the radar, but its grandiosity could be compared to the great palaces of Rome, Florence, and Venice.

Is there a guide involved?
The rooms of the Piano Nobile (i.e. the main floor) can only be seen on a guided tour, which costs 8 euros.

Did it meet expectations?
The sybaritic Cardinal Flavio Chigi amassed an impressive collection of 17th-century baroque paintings and furnishings, which remain on display. Wandering through rooms like the "Stanza delle Belle" lined with portraits of Roman beauties, the Landscapes Room, and the Nun's Room featuring portraits of the ten Chigi sisters feels like stepping back in time.

So, then, what, or who, do you think it’s best for?
You'll probably want more than an hour to tour this opulent baroque palazzo and may want to linger even longer in the Chigi Park, which was a favorite stop on the Grand Tour.

Tell us about your first impressions when you arrived.
This intimate restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Oliver Glowig is set inside the barrel room of Poggio Le Volpi winery. Dim lighting and white-napped tables give it a refined atmosphere.

What was the crowd like?
Chef Glowig draws a loyal following of foodies and oenophiles.

What should we be drinking?
You're literally sitting in a wine cellar here, so vino is obviously the beverage of choice. Poggio Le Volpi produces bottles that range from fruity white Frascatis to robust reds. The wine list also features a variety of options, including French champagnes, Tuscan reds by Antinori, and bottles from as far away as New Zealand.

Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss.
German Chef Glowig has spent his 20-year career in Italian kitchens, including the Capri Palace Hotel & Spa and the Hotel Aldrovandi Villa Borghese, where he earned two Michelin stars. At this intimate, 30-seat enoteca, he turns out creative takes on Italian classics, like a scampi crudo with artichoke hearts and burrata, cacio e pepe pasta with sea urchin, and pork with celery and cherries soaked in Armagnac.

And how did the front-of-house folks treat you?
The staff are attentive and detail-oriented.

What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here?
This is the perfect place to impress your future spouse with a romantic dinner among the wine barrels. A few glasses of wine and you might even be in the mood to pop the question.

Zoom out. What’s this place all about?
This fascist-era museum houses the few artifacts that remain of Caligula's pleasure ships. It's a quirky, off-the-beaten path attraction that many Romans have never even heard of.

How was the collection?
The first-century Roman emperor Caligula—known for insane behavior like trying to appoint his horse to the senate—created two massive pleasure ships laden with marble, ivory, and mosaics that floated in the Lake of Nemi. No one knows how or why exactly they sunk, but people tried unsuccessfully to recover them since the 15th century. Ultimately, it was Mussolini who ordered the lake drained and had the ships pulled out of the mud before they were destroyed in a fire during WWII. The museum is dedicated to these curious relics, with artifacts and documentation about them.

Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged?
This is a small and very niche museum, so you could visit it in under an hour.

Zoom out. What’s the big picture here?
Imago Artist organizes bespoke tours for individuals and small groups, so you definitely need to book in advance. Founder Fulvio De Bonis or one of his guides will pick you up at your hotel and bring you to Albano for a day of exploring ancient Roman sites.

How are the guides, then?
Fulvio is an art historian by training and is extremely passionate about Lazio, where he was born and raised. He knows all the best under-the-radar and off-limits sites to visit in Rome and the surrounding area. He's very well organized, but adds a bit of spontaneity to his tours with various surprises. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, follow his lead and you'll be sure to discover something new.

Anything you’ll be remembering weeks or months or years from now?
Fulvio is able to access off-limits sites like the Catacombs of San Senatore under the Church of Santa Maria della Stella and the Roman Cistern, an underground series of tunnels and aqueducts that still functions today.

So: money, time—how can we make the most of both?
Imago Artis tailors its tours to your interests, so it's ideal for people who have special requests or want access to exclusive sites.

How did it strike you on arrival?
Hotel Flora is housed in an elegant Liberty-style villa surrounded by a charming garden. It's conveniently located a short walk from the train station and ten minutes from the center of town, but feels quite tranquil compared to Rome.

What’s the crowd like?
Because of its convenient location, this hotel draws business travelers who prefer to stay just outside of Rome's hustle and bustle as well as visitors using it as a base to explore the Castelli Romani.

The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
Rooms are clean and serviceable with parquet floors, traditional decor, and marble bathrooms. For a nominal fee, you can upgrade to a spacious junior suite with a living room and hydromassage tub.

Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
The hotel provides free Wi-Fi.

Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.
A buffet breakfast is included in the rate and the garden is a pleasant place to enjoy a meal when the weather is nice. There's also parking on-site.

What was most memorable about your stay?
This hotel is a nice base in the Castelli Romani, but don't expect the kind of five-star accommodations you'd find in Rome.

Sperlonga is a small beach town between Rome and Naples. Its beach is Blue Flag status, meaning the water is noted for its clarity and cleanliness. In fact, the beach is so wonderful that sometimes all else is overlooked. Sperlonga, like many Italian hill towns, has an Old Town, the Centro Storico. The Centro Storico is on a cliff and dates back to medieval times. Its white buildings, punctuated with bright pink bougainvillea, are redolent of a Greek fishing village. It’s definitely worth a stroll and is a perfect spot to have an aperitivo as you wait for the bus to the train station.

Tell me: What’s this place all about?
The archeological ruins of the Villa of Tiberius, the Roman emperor who ruled from 17 to 42 CE, were long rumored to lie somewhere between Rome and Naples. Finally discovered in 1957, they testify to this importance of this whitewashed seaside town that's been all but forgotten since its heyday in the 1950s and '60s. Legend has it, Sperlonga was a stop on Odysseus's journey, and a group of ancient sculptures depicting scenes from the Odyssey were found in the grotto adjacent to the villa. Anyone can wander the ruins of the villa, but you have to pay a 5 Euro admission fee to enter the museum where the statues are now kept.

What’s it like being there?
Standing amid the ruins of the villa and grotto, you might be overwhelmed by the ancient mythology that electrifies the air here.

Who comes here?
Sperlonga is a favorite beach town for in-the-know Romans, but it's not on most tourists' radars so you might be the only native English speaker around.

So, then, what, or who, do you think it’s best for?
History buffs and archeology fanatics should seek this place out. You can get here by train from Rome or—better yet—make it a stop on a road trip from Rome to the Amalfi Coast.

Tell me: What’s this place all about?
This 17th-century tower stands out like a strange, geometric sentinel atop a hill overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. After the town was sacked by pirates in the 16th century, it was erected to protect the area from further attacks. There's not much to do in the tower, but its breathtaking views are worth a quick stop. You can just walk up to it via a path in town or from the beach below.

What’s it like being there?
It's not the town's most awe-inspiring landmark, but it's worth a quick stop for the views.

Who comes here?
Most people just stop by for a quick photo op before moving on.

Did it meet expectations?
Photographers will appreciate the vantage point offering spectacular views of the sea and beaches below.

So, then, what, or who, do you think it’s best for?
This medieval tower on a hill was built to protect Sperlonga from pirate attacks. Though the town doesn't need much protecting these days, the tower offers a great vantage point for photo ops.

Let’s start big picture. What’s the vibe here?
This tranquil garden is beautifully manicured and tightly controlled by the Roffredo Caetani Foundation—Caetani was the godson of composer Franz Liszt and married a wealthy English woman who cultivated the garden. It's a feast for the eyes with several types of roses, magnolias, wisteria, and other flowers blooming in spring and summer.

Any standout features or must-sees?
Don't miss the man-made lake, where divers discovered the foundations of a Roman temple.

Was it easy to get around?
You have to tour the gardens with one of the foundation's bilingual guides, so you likely won't get lost. When the garden is open for the season, tours leave every ten minutes and last about an hour. The foundation recommends booking online in advance to avoid the lines. Be sure to check the opening dates before you go.

All said and done, what—and who—is this best for?
This beautiful garden is about halfway between Rome and Sperlonga and costs 15 Euros to visit, but if you're short on time, it might not be worth a detour. But fans of horticulture will likely want to make the trek.

Orvieto is a small hill town in Umbria. It’s a perfect and easy day trip from Rome. Set on a cliff of tufa rock (no worries there’s a funicular), this charming town offers specular views, excellent food, and incredible art. Orvieto is known for its local white wine, known as Orvieto Classico, and its olive oil. This is the place to get lost in the pretty side streets—and underneath the streets. There are more than 1,200 caves and tunnels that wind below the town that were built by the Etruscans during the third century BC. But the major attraction is the Duomo, built in 1290.

What were your first impressions when you arrived? Immediately, there is a relaxed atmosphere. People come here for their pork dishes, reasonably prices, and overall good food.

What’s the crowd like? It's a mix of locals and tourists. Not a pretentious place.

What should we be drinking? They have a lot of local wine, a pretty solid selection. It is Italy, after all!

Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. This is simple food; nothing fancy. Try anything made with cinghale (wild boar).

What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here? It's a great place to go with friends or family for some simple down home local food.