10 Best day trips from Rome

Perched on top of the Monti Tiburtini hills on the Aniene River just East of Rome, Tivoli is home to some stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites and breathtaking views. No day trip to Tivoli would be complete without visiting Villa D’Este, one of the most impressive Renaissance villas and gardens worldwide. Cascading waterfalls, fountains and beautiful frescoed-halls make Villa D’Este a unique example of a 16th-century Italian garden. Another must-visit is Villa Adriana, an exceptional complex of classical buildings created in the 2nd century A.D. by the Roman emperor Hadrian.

Just an hour’s drive from Rome, in Tuscia, lies the breathtaking Palazzo Farnese. Commissioned by the influential 16th-century Farnese family, this pentagonal, five-storey villa showcases Renaissance artistry by renowned figures like il Vignola, Antonio Tempesta, and Taddeo and Federico Zuccari. Initially planned as a military fortress by Pope Paul III, his nephew, Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, transformed it into a luxurious residence with exquisite Italian gardens. The palace’s highlights include the Map Room with its detailed world maps and celestial depictions, the Loggia of Hercules, and the enchanting Sala of the Fasti Farnesiani. To fully appreciate its splendor, a guided tour is highly recommended.

This beautiful borgo in the province of Viterbo is just 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Rome. We stumbled upon this hamlet on our way to a restaurant after we gave up on visiting the gardens of Bomarzo due to an hour-long que to get in! But Bagnaia was such a gem. We visited the historic center and then visited the magnificent Villa Lante, a Renaissance-style villa with Italian style gardens. Truly a must-visit. We then headed for lunch at the nearby restaurant Giardini di Ararat. Super recommend this day trip from Rome, especially in the fall with the beautiful foliage!

Less than a two-hour drive from Rome you’ll stumble upon what the New York Times has called “the most romantic garden in the world”. The Giardino di Ninfa or Garden of Ninfa is a green oasis that boasts 1300 plant and flower species with the ruins of the medieval town of Ninfa serving as a backdrop. The town of Ninfa was destroyed in the 14th century and afterwards became a garden with rare botanical species, water pools and fountains at the behest of the Caetani Family, who founded the Roffredo Caetani Foundation which preserves the garden. You can admire 19 species of deciduous magnolia, birch, water iris and Japanese maples. Not to mention the bamboo plants (which grow 7cm per day) and so much more. A wonderful day trip to get in touch with nature!

Overlooking Lake Albano, Castel Gandolfo is one of the towns of the Castelli Romani best known for the beauty of the nature that surrounds it and for the elegance of its historic center. Not to mention it was the summer residence of the Popes for generations until Pope Francis decided to abandon the palace. And now, from April to October (excluding July and August) you can visit the stunning Pontifical Villas and Gardens! Afterwards, head on over to Antico Ristorante Pagnanelli for local specialties and amazing wine overlooking Lake Albano. To get to Castel Gandolfo take the train from Roma Termini station.

Nestled in the lush greenery of the Aniene Valley, Subiaco is a hidden gem just an hour’s drive from Rome. Famous for its monastic history, Subiaco is home to the Sacred Convent of Saint Benedict and the Monastery of Santa Scolastica, both offering an insightful glimpse into medieval monastic life. The town is also renowned for its picturesque streets and traditional Italian charm. A visit to Subiaco isn’t complete without exploring the Rocca Abbaziale, a fortress offering panoramic views of the valley below. Subiaco’s blend of spiritual heritage and natural beauty makes it a serene escape from the bustle of Rome. For lunch, reserve at Agriturismo La Parata.

Orvieto, perched on a tuff cliff in the heart of Umbria, is a splendid destination for a day trip from Rome, only an hour and a half away by train. This medieval town is renowned for its striking Duomo, a Gothic architectural marvel with a dazzling facade of mosaics and sculptures. Equally impressive is the St. Patrick’s Well (Pozzo di San Patrizio), an architectural marvel with a double helix staircase, designed for water supply during sieges. Orvieto’s Etruscan roots are also on display in its extensive network of underground tunnels and caves. While here, indulge in the local culinary scene, particularly the famous Orvieto Classico wine. Orvieto offers a captivating mix of history, art, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit on any Roman day-trip itinerary. For lunch, reserve at Trattoria La Palomba.

A gem in the heart of the Lazio region, Viterbo, often overlooked by tourists, is steeped in medieval charm and history. This city was once a refuge for popes during times of unrest in Rome, and its Papal Palace, where several papal conclaves took place, is a testament to its significant past. Actually, Viterbo’s Papal Palace was the site of the first and longest papal election in history, which lasted from 1268 to 1271. This prolonged election led to the origin of the term “conclave” (from Latin: cum clave, meaning “with a key”), as the cardinals were literally locked (‘clavis’) in (‘cum’) to hasten their decision. The city’s historic center, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in central Italy, is encircled by an ancient stone wall and is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, ancient houses, and quaint squares. The San Pellegrino quarter, with its picturesque alleys and courtyards, feels like a journey back in time.

To explore some beautiful lakeside towns in the Lazio region just head on over to Bracciano, Anguillara Sabazia or Trevignano Romano. All three are lakeside towns along the shores of the famous Lake Bracciano. Medieval towns, beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere are in store for you. For lunch, I recommend reserving a table at Chalet del Lago in Anguillara, and don’t forget to stop by the stunning Museo Storico dell’Aeronautica Militare, aka the Historic museum of the Italian Air Force, in Bracciano. There’s also the stunning 15th century Orsini Odescalchi Castle to check out — famous for being the wedding location of celebrities such as Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes! The Bracciano area is also filled with beautiful agriturismi – explore these four farm-stays near Rome.

All archeological fans need to visit Ostia Antica — Ancient Rome’s seaport at the mouth of the Tiber River founded by the fourth king of Rome – Anco Marcio. The best part? You won’t find the tourist crowds you get in other archeological sites like Pompeii! Historically, Ostia Antica was a key port for the Romans, where innumerable goods were exchanged. Today, it is known as Rome’s “ghost town” for its wonderfully preserved ruins of streets, villas and frescoes. Check out the Terme di Nettuno, baths that date back to the 2nd century boasting stunning mosaic floors to be completely swept off your feet! To reach Ostia Antica take the Ostia Lido train from San Paolo Station and get off at Ostia Antica. For lunch, take the metromare to Lido di Ostia (or drive for 10 minutes) and go to the restaurant La Vecchia Pineta.