15 Best Day Trips From Rome

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Rome is undoubtedly one of the most mesmerizing cities in the world, with its rich history, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture. However, if you're planning a trip to the city of ancient Rome and have some extra time on your hands, it's worth exploring the beautiful surrounding areas that offer a glimpse into Italy's diverse landscape and culture.

From picturesque hilltop towns to stunning coastlines and archaeological gems, there are plenty of options for day trips from Rome that cater to different interests. Whether you're looking for a relaxed countryside escape or an action-packed adventure, here are some of the best day trips from Rome that should be on your radar.

1. Villa Adriana

If you are looking for a popular day trip from Rome that will take you back in time, Villa Adriana is the best place to visit. This archaeological site is located in Tivoli, just 30 km away from Rome, and it is one of the most impressive ancient villas in Italy.

Villa Adriana was built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. This villa was not only a luxurious retreat for the emperor but also a place where he could express his love for art, architecture, and nature. The villa is a perfect example of the Roman Empire's grandeur and sophistication.

Hadrian's Villa is a vast complex that covers an area of over 120 hectares. The villa has more than 30 buildings, including palaces, temples, theaters, libraries, and baths. The villa also has a vast network of underground tunnels, which were used to transport goods and people.

One of the most impressive buildings in Villa Adriana is the Canopus. This building is a replica of a canal in Egypt, and it was used for banquets and parties. The Canopus is surrounded by statues and columns, and it is a perfect example of the Roman Empire's fascination with exotic cultures.

Another highlight of Villa Adriana is the Maritime Theater. This building is a circular island surrounded by a moat, and it was used as a private retreat for the emperor. The Maritime Theater is a perfect example of how the Roman Empire used architecture to create illusions and entertain people.

Contact:

Address: Largo Marguerite Yourcenar, 1, 00010 Tivoli RM, Italy

Phone: +39 0774 530203

2. Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

If you're fascinated by ancient history and natural wonders, a day trip to the city of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius is a must-do when in Rome. Here's what you need to know to plan your Rome day trip.

The easiest way to get to the ruins of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius from Rome is by booking a guided tour or by taking the train to Naples and then to Pompeii. The tours typically include transportation, admission tickets, and a knowledgeable guide to take you through the archaeological site and up the volcano. If you prefer to go on your own, you can take a train from central Rome to Naples, and then another train from Naples to Pompeii. Trains run regularly throughout the day, and the journey takes about 2 hours each way.

Pompeii is an ancient Roman city that was buried under volcanic ash and pumice after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Today, it is a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy. You can explore the ruins of the city on foot and see the preserved buildings, streets, and public spaces that give us a glimpse into life in ancient Rome. Some of the highlights of Pompeii include the Forum, the Amphitheater, the House of the Faun, and the Baths.

Mount Vesuvius is the only active volcano on the European mainland and one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world. It last erupted in 1944, and scientists believe that it is overdue for another eruption. Despite its reputation, it is safe to visit the volcano with a guide who will take you up to the crater and explain the geology and history of the area. The hike to the top of the volcano takes about an hour and is moderately strenuous, but the views from the top are breathtaking.

3. Tivoli

If you're looking for a visit from Rome that offers a mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty, Tivoli is an excellent choice as it's only an hour away. This small town is located about 30 kilometers from Rome and is easily accessible by train or bus. Here are some of the highlights you can expect to see during your visit to Tivoli.

Villa d'Este

One of the most famous attractions in Tivoli is the Villa d'Este. This magnificent Renaissance villa was built in the 16th century for Cardinal Ippolito II d'Este, and it's renowned for its stunning gardens and fountains. The villa's gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and feature more than 500 fountains, cascades, and water features. Some of the most impressive fountains include the Fountain of Neptune, the Fountain of the Organ, and the Hundred Fountains.

Hadrian's Villa

Another must-see attraction in Tivoli is Hadrian's Villa, which was built in the 2nd century AD for the Roman Emperor Hadrian. This sprawling complex covers an area of more than 120 hectares and includes palaces, temples, and thermal baths. Some of the highlights of the villa in Tivoli include the Canopus, a large pool surrounded by columns, and the Maritime Theater, a circular structure that was used for entertainment and performances.

To get to Tivoli from Rome, you can take a high-speed train from Roma Termini train station to Tivoli station. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and trains run frequently throughout the day. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Rome's Ponte Mammolo station, which takes about 45 minutes.

4. Florence

If you're a lover of art, culture, and history, then the city of Florence is one of the best day trips from Rome for you. Known as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is a city that will leave you in awe of its beauty and grandeur.

One of the most iconic landmarks of Florence is the Duomo Cathedral, a magnificent structure that took almost 150 years to complete. The cathedral's dome, designed by Brunelleschi, is one of the largest in the world and offers the best views of the city from the top.

Another must-visit attraction is the Uffizi Gallery, which houses some of the world's most famous works of art. From Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" to Michelangelo's "Tondo Doni," the gallery is a treasure trove of Renaissance art that will leave you speechless.

No trip to Florence is complete without a visit to see Michelangelo's masterpiece, the David. This iconic statue of the biblical hero stands at an impressive 17 feet tall and is a symbol of the city's artistic heritage.

Aside from its art and architecture, Florence is also known for its delicious cuisine. From traditional Tuscan dishes like ribollita and bistecca alla fiorentina to gelato and cannoli, the city is a food lover's paradise.

5. Naples

If you're looking for a day trip from Rome with a mix of history, culture, and food, Naples might be the best in all of Italy. The city is famous for its cuisine, which includes pizza, pasta, seafood, and pastries, among other delicious dishes. Naples is also home to several archaeological sites, including Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

To get to Naples from Rome, you can take a fast train from Roma Termini station to Napoli Centrale station, which takes around one to three hours depending on the type of train you choose. Once you arrive in Naples, you can explore the city on foot or by public transportation, such as buses or the metro.

One of the must-visit places in Naples is Pompeii, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological ruins in the world. Pompeii was buried under ash and pumice after the eruption of the Vesuvius, which preserved the city's buildings, streets, and artifacts. You can take a guided tour of Pompeii to learn more about its history and see its highlights, such as the amphitheater, the forum, and the brothel.

Apart from Pompeii, Naples has several other historical sites worth visiting, such as Herculaneum, Oplontis, and Stabiae. These sites offer a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans and showcase their art, architecture, and technology.

Finally, Naples is a food lover's paradise, with its famous pizza, pasta, and seafood dishes. You can try the authentic Neapolitan pizza, which has a thin and crispy crust, fresh tomato sauce, and buffalo mozzarella cheese. Other popular dishes include spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), frittura di paranza (fried mixed seafood), and sfogliatella (a crispy pastry filled with ricotta cheese and candied fruit).

6. Orvieto

If you want to take a day trip from Rome by train that will take you to a charming Umbrian hill town, Orvieto is the perfect place to go. This town is located about 75 miles north of Rome and can be reached by train in less than an hour.

One of the highlights of Orvieto is the stunning Cathedral of Orvieto, which dates back to the 14th century. This impressive structure features intricate Gothic architecture and houses many works of art, including frescoes by Luca Signorelli. You can also visit the nearby Basilica of St. Patrick, which is known for its beautiful mosaic floors.

Another must-see attraction in Orvieto is the Pozzo di San Patrizio, or St. Patrick's Well. This impressive well was built in the 16th century and features a double helix staircase that allows visitors to descend to the bottom and back up again without crossing paths. The well was designed to provide water during times of siege, and it's a fascinating example of Renaissance engineering.

If you're interested in history, you may also want to visit the Orvieto Underground. This network of tunnels and caves was used for centuries by the town's residents as a way to escape invaders and store food. Today, you can take a tour of the underground and learn about the town's fascinating past.

7. Ostia Antica

If you're looking for a top day trip from Rome that takes you back in time, Ostia Antica is the perfect destination. This ancient Roman city was once a thriving seaport, and today it's an impressive archaeological site that provides a glimpse into the past.

To get to Ostia Antica, you can take a train from Rome's Porta San Paolo station. The journey takes around 30 minutes, and once you arrive, you'll be able to explore the site at your own pace.

As you wander through the ruins, you'll see everything from ancient houses and shops to public buildings and temples. Highlights include the amphitheater, the Forum, and the House of Diana.

One of the advantages of visiting Ostia Antica is that it's much less crowded than other ancient sites near Rome, such as Pompeii. This means you'll be able to enjoy the ruins in relative peace and quiet.

If you want to make the most of your visit, consider hiring a guide or joining a tour. This will give you a deeper understanding of the site's history and significance.

8. Hill Towns of Tuscany

For a scenic tour from Rome, the towns in the hills of Tuscany should be at the top of your list. Tuscany is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming medieval towns, and delicious food and wine. Here are a few towns to consider visiting.

Pienza

Pienza is a small town in the Val d'Orcia region of Tuscany. It is known for its beautiful Renaissance architecture, including the Palazzo Piccolomini and the Duomo. Pienza is also famous for its pecorino cheese, which you can sample at one of the many cheese shops in town.

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is another town in the Val d'Orcia region. It is known for its red wine, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which you can taste at one of the many wineries in town. Montepulciano also has several historic churches and palaces, including the Palazzo Comunale and the Church of San Biagio.

San Gimignano

San Gimignano is a medieval hill town in the province of Siena. It is known for its 14 towers, which were built by wealthy families in the 14th and 15th centuries. San Gimignano also has several museums, including the Museum of Sacred Art and the Museum of Torture.

Volterra

Volterra is a hill town in the province of Pisa. It is known for its Etruscan ruins, including the Porta dell'Arco and the Acropolis. Volterra also has several museums, such as the Etruscan Museum.

Hiking in Tuscany

If you're looking for an active day trip, consider hiking in the Tuscan countryside. There are several hiking trails in the Val d'Orcia region, including the Via Francigena, which is a historic pilgrimage route. You can also hike in the hills around San Gimignano, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

9. Castel Gandolfo

If you're looking for a relaxing day when visiting Rome, Castel Gandolfo is a great option. This small town is located about 15 miles southeast of Rome and is known for its stunning views of Lake Albano and its famous Papal Palace. Here are a few things you can do during your visit to the Castle

The Papal Palace is the summer residence of the Pope and is located in the heart of Castel Gandolfo. You can take a tour with guide of the palace and its gardens, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Admission to the palace is €11, and tickets can be purchased on the official Vatican website.

The Vatican Gardens are located within the walls of Vatican City and cover an area of about 23 hectares. The gardens are home to a wide variety of plants and trees, as well as several fountains and sculptures. You can take a tour of the gardens, which lasts about 90 minutes and costs €32 per person.

Villa Gregoriana is a park located in the town of Tivoli, about 20 miles east of Rome. The park is home to several beautiful waterfalls and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Admission to the park is €8, and tickets can be purchased on site or online.

Lake Albano is a volcanic lake located near Castel Gandolfo. You can take a boat tour of the lake and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills and countryside. Boat tours typically last about an hour and cost around €10 per person.

10. Amalfi Coast

If you're looking for a picturesque and relaxing day outside of Rome, the Amalfi Coast is a must-visit destination by the seaside. This stunning coastline stretches for 50 kilometers along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, colorful houses, and terraced vineyards.

One of the most popular destinations along the Amalfi Coast is the town of Positano. Known for its steep streets, pastel-colored houses, and beautiful beaches, it's a perfect place to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun. You can also visit the nearby old town of Amalfi, which is home to a stunning cathedral and a picturesque harbor.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Amalfi Coast is also known for its wineries. You can take a tour of the vineyards and taste some of the region's best wines. If you're looking for a more active day trip, you can also go hiking along the coastline or take a boat tour to the nearby island of Capri.

11. Lake Bracciano

If you're looking for a peaceful and scenic day trip from Rome, Lake Bracciano is a great option. Located just 32 kilometers northwest of Rome, this 56 square kilometer volcanic lake in Italy with a 32 km shoreline is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

One of the most popular activities at Lake Bracciano is swimming. The water is clean and clear, and there are several beaches around the lake where you can swim and sunbathe. Some of the most popular beaches include Trevignano Romano, Anguillara Sabazia, and Bracciano.

If you're interested in history, you can visit the Orsini-Odescalchi Castle, which is located on the shores of Lake Bracciano. This castle was built in the 15th century and has been beautifully preserved.

Another great way to explore Lake Bracciano is by boat. You can rent a boat and take a tour of the lake. This is a great way to see the lake from a different perspective and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

If you're interested in hiking, there are several trails around Lake Bracciano. One of the most popular trails is the Sentiero del Lago, which is a 12-kilometer trail that goes around the entire lake. This trail offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.

12. Assisi

When looking for a peaceful and spiritual day trip from the city of Rome, then Assisi is the perfect destination for you. This quaint hill town is located in the Umbria region of Italy and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Assisi is famous for being the birthplace of St. Francis, the patron saint of Italy, and the founder of the Franciscan order. Here are some of the top attractions you can visit during your day trip to Assisi:

The Basilica of St. Francis is a must-visit attraction in Assisi. This stunning basilica is dedicated to St. Francis and is divided into two parts: the Upper Church and the Lower Church. The Upper Church is adorned with beautiful frescoes that depict the life of St. Francis, while the Lower Church contains his tomb. The basilica is a pilgrimage site for Catholics and is considered one of the most important Christian sites in the world.

St. Francis is perhaps the most well-loved saint in Italy and the world. He is known for his love of nature and his compassion for all living beings. During your visit to Assisi, you can learn more about his life and teachings by visiting the many museums and churches dedicated to him. You can also walk in his footsteps by visiting the places where he lived and preached, such as the Hermitage of the Carceri and the Porziuncola.

Assisi's historic center is a charming medieval town that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The town is filled with narrow streets, quaint shops, and beautiful churches. You can also visit the Rocca Maggiore, a medieval fortress that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

If you want to make the most of your day trip to Assisi, then consider booking a private tour with a driver. This tour will allow you to visit all the top attractions in Assisi at your own pace and with the guidance of an expert local guide. You can also customize the tour to suit your interests and preferences.

13. Sorrento

For a coastal escape from Rome, Sorrento is the perfect day trip location. This small town is located on a cliff overlooking the Bay of Naples and is world-famous for its lemons, which are used to make limoncello, a popular Italian liqueur.

To get to Sorrento, you can take a luxury climate-controlled bus from Rome, which will take approximately 3 hours. Once you arrive in Sorrento, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline or explore the town's charming streets and shops.

One of the best tourist attractions in Sorrento is the Museo Correale di Terranova, which houses an impressive collection of art and antiques. You can also take a boat tour to explore the nearby island of Capri or visit the nearby town of Positano, which is known for its colorful houses and stunning views.

If you're a foodie, be sure to try some of Sorrento's famous seafood dishes, such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or frittura di paranza (mixed fried seafood). And of course, you can't leave Sorrento without trying some limoncello, which is made with the town's famous lemons.

14. Pisa

If you're looking for a day trip from Rome to a city in Southern Italy that is famous for its architectural sites, then Pisa is a great option. The city is located in Tuscany and is known for its Leaning Tower, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can take a guided tour to Pisa from Rome, which includes a stop at Florence and lasts around 13 hours. Pickup for the Pisa excursion is either from your hotel or a central location in Rome, and the tour starts around 7 AM. The first stop will be Pisa, where you will have the opportunity to explore the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Leaning Tower (visit from outside).

Alternatively, you can take a private full-day tour that allows you to visit both Florence and Pisa in one day from Rome. After pickup, travel to the Field of Miracles in Pisa, where you have 1.5 hours of free time to climb the Leaning Tower.

If you prefer to travel independently, you can take the train from Rome to Pisa. The high-speed Freccia train (Frecciabianca or Frecciarossa) takes around 3 hours, the Intercity also takes 3 hours, or the local Regionale Veloce takes around 4 hours. Prices range from 27/30 euros to up to 50 euro, depending on when you book.

15. Castelli Romani

If you're in for a day trip from the Eternal City that offers a mix of history, culture, and nature, Castelli Romani is a great place to go. This group of small towns is located in the Alban Hills, around 20 kilometers southeast of Rome. The area is officially part of the Province of Rome and is home to the Castelli Romani Regional Park, founded in 1984.

One of the main attractions of Castelli Romani is its wine. The area is known for its vineyards and wineries, and you can taste some of the best wines in Italy here. Frascati is one of the most popular towns in the area for wine tasting. You can visit one of the many wineries in the town and taste some of the local wines, such as Frascati Superiore and Cannellino di Frascati.

Getting to Castelli Romani is easy, as there are several public transport options available. You can take a train from Rome to Frascati, which takes around 30 minutes. From there, you can explore the town on foot or take a bus to other towns in the area.