Plan some of the most memorable day trips from Rome with this handy list.
When it comes to trotting the globe, one location that pops up time and time again is the beautiful country of Italy. It is no wonder why. Italy is one of the most historic and deeply rooted locations on the globe. From the ancient civilization found in the Roman ruins to the beautiful landscape, Italy has done a fantastic job preserving their history and beauty. One such city is the iconic city of Rome. Rome is one of the most fantastic cities that Italy has to offer. Today, we are going to go beyond the beautiful city of Rome and explorer some of Rome's neighboring towns. There are plenty of beautiful location to visit if you are looking to take some fantastic day trips from Rome.
Why Should You Consider Taking Day Trips from Rome?
Rome is a fascinating City. However, the beauty of Rome is not contained in this iconic city alone. You do not have to go far out from Rome to see some of the best cities that Italy has to offer. From historical cities to cities that have some of Italy's most fascinating paintings, we have covered them all you. Today we are going to take a look at some of the best cities that make for some of the best day trips from Rome. If you are calling Rome your home base while on vacation in Italy this season, then you have come to the right place. Here is our list of some of the best day trips from Rome that you can not miss out on.
How to Get Around Will Planning Day Trips from Rome?
The awesome thing about many of these day trips from Rome is the fact that they are rather easy to get to. With most of these day trips from Rome, all you need is to book a ticket on the train. For the most part, train tickets are sold by the nationally recognized Trenitalia. This train is the perfect way to get around if you are looking for comfortable and fast travel.
The good news is, when you book your ticket through Trenitalia, You will not be breaking the bank as far as training tickets go. Not only that but for many of these popular day trips from Rome, you can expect to spend no more than two hours traveling. Let's get started with our list of some of the best day trips from Rome that you can not miss out on.
1. Vatican City
Whether or not you are a Catholic is irrelevant when you come to this next city. The iconic Vatican City is perhaps one of the most popular cities in all of Rome. From starters, the Vatican City is the location where the pope calls home. Alongside its religious significance, there is so much more that the iconic Vatican City has to offer. For starters, the architecture here is simply magnificent. While the Vatican City is often flowing and bustling with tourists, The atmosphere in the Vatican City is a little more muted and tranquil than in the city of Rome.
This is an experience that should not be missed out on and is easily one of the best places to visit if you are looking for some of the best day trips from Rome. Better yet, you do not have to travel far to get here. Conveniently so, the Vatican City is located within the city of Rome. It should be noted, that when you do arrive here, you will need to bring along your passport. Entering the Vatican city is akin to entering a separate country altogether.
What to Do Here
The magic of the Vatican City is simply amazing. For starters, the Vatican Museums here are sure to take your breath away. The Museums will walk you through the cities past. Not only that, but they will give you an experience that you are sure to never forget. In fact, the museums are a bit overwhelming in the sense that there is beautiful art in every corner you look. For the sake of soaking it all in you might want to plan more than one day to explore this beautiful location.
One of the top highlights of the Vatican City that you can not miss out on is visiting the Sistine Chapel. If you ask any tourist or local, they will tell you that the Sistine Chapel is easily the landmark location to visit. In fact, it is so popular that you can expect to wait up to four hours in line just to enter it. To get the most out of your day, we suggest that you visit early so that you will spend most of your day in the museum and not waiting outside in the lines.
When you get to the Sistine Chapel, you will work your way through its incredible display of art that litters the museum. The highlight of your experience of the Sistine Chapel will easily be Michelangelo's painting the Last Judgement. This fresco covers the entirety of the Chapel's ceiling. When you get the opportunity to view this painting firsthand, it will indeed be a magical moment that you are sure not to forget.
2. Florence
One of the best cities to visit that makes for one of the best day trips from Rome is the historical city of Florence. There are so many things to do in Florence that you may want to consider expanding your day trip to a weekend trip instead. However, if you are crunched for time, then starting your day off early and ending it late will allow you to explore the beauty of Florence all in one day as well.
What to Do Here
Simply put, Florence is an art lovers dream. Everywhere you go in the city you will be met with some of the world's most fantastic art. For example, you will find the iconic statue of David here in the Galleria dell' Accademia. If you are a fashion lover, then The Gucci Museum is a location you can not miss either. The Gucci Museum takes visitors on a detail evolution of fashion. Finally, another iconic place to visit is the Uffizi Gallery. The Uffizi gallery is home to some of the most inspirational pieces of work. You can find the iconic works of Raphael, Caravaggio, and Botticelli here.
Countless other museums and monumental landmarks are here in Florence too. To get lost in a magical city that is deeply rooted in history with every turn, Florence easily tops our list of one of the best places to go to. Especially if you are looking for one of the best day trips from Rome.
3. Pompeii
This next location is one of the best day trips from Rome that will have you traveling down the southern coast of Italy. If you are a history buff, you are sure to love the historic landmark of Pompeii. Pompeii is a historic location for many reasons. Long ago, it was an ancient Roman city that was as iconic and important to the locals as Rome was. For years since, tourists have been flocking to this city to soak in its magnitude. In fact it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Italy according to the UNESCO world heritage site. This rich city opens its doors to over two and a half million visitors every year.
What to Do Here
One of the most unique features of Pompeii is the fact that it is home to the ancient Pompeiian ruins. The ruins are a large collection of statues and buildings that are one of the most intriguing sites to see. For an even more in depth exploration of the past, visitors must make it a point to stop by The Villa of the Mysteries. The Villa of the Mysteries is an estate that has been preserved over the years. An iconic staple of the Villa of the Mysteries is the beautiful frescoes that are housed here.
If you are interested in the religious aspects of Pompeii, then the Pontifical Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary is a church that is worth visiting. This Roman Catholic church features stunning frescos, beautiful art, and even more stunning architecture. Although you will find plenty of locals here who come to pray, tourists can respectfully and quietly visit to soak in the beauty.
Finally, if you time your visit just right, you may get to experience a concert or event in the Grand Theatre of Brescia. This Grand Theater is the main drama house in Pompeii. Everything from historical reenactments to concerts takes place here.
4. Cinque Terre
This next location is easily one of the best spots in Italy to visit if you are staying in Rome. In fact, ask any local and they will tell you that this is easily one of the most popular locations if you are planning one of the best day trips from Rome. While it may take a little time to get here from Rome, when you do arrive you will be pleasantly surprised. This is because there are a range of beautiful picturesque mountain of colorful homes that will greet you once you arrive in the Cinque Terre.
What to Do Here
The Cinque Terre is the formal name for the stretch of coastline that is home to five fisherman villages. These villages are really unique in the fact that they are so small. Along with that, everyone who lives on them knows one another. Not only that, but the picturesque beauty that these villages are known for is simply stunning. The rows of colorful houses have taken over the mountainside and have created the perfect destination for every wanderlust traveler.
When you do get here, you have the option of exploring the five different villages that are here. The Villages include the fabulous village of Riomaggiore, the popular village of Vernazza, followed by the three remaining villages, Manarola, Corniglia, and Monterosso. Each village offers its own unique vibrancy and beauty that separates one from all the other four.
Each of these five villages is unique in their own way. However, you can easily spend a whole day exploring one village, so you will want to plan accordingly. There are a couple of ways that you can get to the Cinque Terre. The most popular way is to take a train from the adjoining town, La Spezia. The train ride from Rome to La Spezia might be a little daunting, but once you reach the town, the train ride into the villages is rather short.
When you do get here, you must make it a point to take an exploration of the trail between the villages. The trail connects all the villages together and is a great way to see each village during your day trip. Leisurely weave your way through the beautiful towns for a simply unforgettable experience.
5. The Amalfi Coast
If you loved the beautiful villages that the Cinque Terre is so well known for, then you are sure to love the Amalfi Coast. Simply put, the Amalfi Coast is Cinque Terre approaching steroids. This rolling stretch of coastland is composed of an assortment of colorful houses. These colorful houses offer the picture perfect landscape that every traveler and photography traveler lives for.
Before you arrive at the Amalfi Coast, you will want to do a little planning beforehand. There are several cities that call the Amalfi Coast home. So you will want to pay close attention to which one best suits your needs. For more information on the beautiful cities of the Amalfi Coast click here.
Because of the sheer beauty of the Amalfi Coast, this is naturally a hotspot for tourists and locals who are looking to get away. In fact, hundreds and thousands of tourists flock here every single year. It is no surprise why either. There are plenty of luxurious resorts that line the coast of the towns here.
What to Do Here
When you get here, there is a range of things that are just waiting for you here. Because of the sheer beauty that is associated with the Amalfi Coast, one of the must-do activities is to stroll around and soak it all in. Be prepared to climb many stairs and zig zag many alleyways. This is part of the fun of exploring the magic of the Amalfi Coast.
Once you have finished exploring, it is an absolute must that you sample some of the food here. From traditional seafood to authentic Italian cooking to American comfort food. You are sure to find a type of meal that suits every traveler here. The busy nature of the Amalfi Coast offers the option of choice to travelers.
One of the best towns to visit on the Amalfi Coast if you are a food lover is the city of Positano. Positano is a village that is comprised of colorful little homes and resorts that are simply stunning. All the Comforts that you would want in a luxurious stay can be found in Positano. In fact, if you are looking for one of the best day trips from Rome, then consider spending a long weekend in the stunning Amalfi Coast.
6. The Island of Capri
One of the best day trips from Rome is to the beautiful island of Capri. The island of Capri is the perfect mix of Italian charm and a faux tropical getaway. This mix is perfect for the locals as the island of Capri is located a little bit away from Rome in the Bay of Naples. Because of this, if you plan on taking a day trip from Rome here, then we suggest heading out early in the morning.
What to Do Here
For the shopping enthusiast, the island of Capri is the place to go to if you are looking to do some serious retail therapy. There is a range of boutiques that you will find here. Everything from the Italian label, to worldwide high couture, will be found here. Along with the upscale fashion boutiques, there are plenty of upscale resorts to match. These resorts and hotels accommodate hundreds and thousands of travelers each year who come to the island of Capri to relax.
When you do arrive, it is a must that you visit the Blue Grotto. The Blue Grotto is considered to be Capri's most popular natural wonder. Along wit that, the Blue Grotto is perhaps one of the most magical locations in the Island of Capri. This series of underwater caves are serene and beautiful to experience. The reflection of the sunshine against the crystal clear water creates one of the most bluest shades of water that you have ever seen. For outdoor enthusiasts, stopping by to experience the Blue Grotto is one of the most magical things to do on the Island of Capri.
Other locations to visit on the island of Capri include the Faraglioni cliff and cave. This location is a perfect experience for lovers of the outdoors as well.
7. Assisi & Orvieto
If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Rome, then one of the best day trips from Rome to take is to the nearby Assisi & Orvieto. This relaxing destination is the perfect way to take in the beautiful sights that Italy has to offer. Better yet, Assisi & Orvieto is a perfect way to experience a day in the life of a local.
What to Do Here
When you do get here, one of the popular items that you should have on your agenda is visiting the beautiful cathedral of Orvieto. This Cathedral is a stunning work of art that captures the classic Italian style.
If you want to sample some of Italy's best wines, then Assisi & Orvieto is just the right place to go to. When you make your way a little out of the town of Orvieto, you will be greeted with some of the best wineries that Italy has to offer. Better yet, depending on your travel season, you can find plenty of wineries that are open for tasting throughout the day. Some of the most popular ones that can be found on the Tuscan hillside include the Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino wines.
8. Ninfa Garden
Credit: Cristiano Minchillo
Another great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Rome is the beautiful Ninfa Garden. The beautiful Ninfa Garden is easily one of the best places to go to if you are looking to plan on one the best day trips from Rome. For tranquility, calm, and relaxation, the Ninfa Garden should be at the top of your list.
What to Do Here
When you arrive, you will be immediately taken aback by the beautiful scenery of the garden. In fact, for many all across Europe, the Ninfa Garden is considered to be one of the best and most beautiful gardens in all of Europe. It offers sheer tranquility, floral arrangements, and waterfalls will have you in agreement.
For the botanist lover, you will be taken aback by the fact that there are over 1,300 different plant species that you will find here. These plant species play an integral role in keeping the gardens looking not only beautiful but staying healthy all year long.
Right down the road of the gardens, you will find the small little town of Sermoneta. Sermoneta is everything you would expect out of a quaint Italian Village. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and soak in the charm that this quaint little town has to offer.
9. Villa d'Este
If you are looking for a cute little getaway, then the Villa d'Este Can make for one of the best day trips from Rome. Villa d'Este has an intricate history that is just as detailed as the beauty found on the grounds. It was first established by Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este in about the year 1515. His mission was to make the Villa d'Este just as beautiful and luxurious as the historical nearby Hadrian’s Villa. Visitors here will say that it was a mission accomplished. The Villa is filled with incredibly stunning rooms. The frescoes rooms are really one of the standout features of Villa d'Este.
What to Do Here
One of the main attractions at the Villa d'Este is the beautiful gardens on the ground. The garden was conceptualized by the architect Pirro Ligorio. Alongside Alberto Galvani, a magical and stunning Grounds was created. The gardens feature a range of fountains that are simply stunning. The primary style of the fountains is mannerist and baroque. The medley between the two styles has created a landmark that is simply stunning.
Another one of the landmark features of the gardens is the one hundred fountains display. This display of beautifully laid out fountains offers a memorable experience that you can not forget. In fact, the hundred fountains display has been used as the background of several films including the popular Ben Hur. Along with the garden's fountains, there are plenty of beautiful terraces, grand slopes, staircases, and promenades for you to experience. On a day that does not see any visitors, you can expect to roam the gardens without disturbance.
10. Hadrian's Villa at Tivoli
If you are if you are planning to visit Village d'Este, then planning a trip to Hadrian's Villa makes for one of the best day trips from Rome as well. Adrian's Villa at Tivoli is located Near Villa d'Este so it only makes sense that you visit this popular location as well. Hadrian's Villa was constructed as a somewhat retreat for the Roman Emperor Hadrian. As Legend has it, his dislike for the Palatine Hill in Rome was what led him to escape to the Villa when he needed to relax. With the stunning landscape and architecture in the villa, it's easy to see how this location was a safe haven.
What to Do Here
When you get to Hadrian's Villa, there is so much beauty to experience. One of the main features of Hadrian's Villa is the Poecile. The Poecile is a large garden. It is also iconic because it features a swimming pool. The Poecile was built so that it could be enjoyed regardless of the season.
Another landmark of Hadrian's Villa is the Canopus. The Canopus is essentially a long water basin. Alongside the water basin, you will find columns and statues. The stunnig architecture at the Canopus is one of the features that shows you the Villas attention to luxury.
There are also plenty of other locations of the Villa that you must visit. If not for the history, then for the sheer preservation of them. Withstanding the test of time, these locations are just as pristine as the day they were built. Some of the best preserved parts of the Villa include the academia, the imperial palace, the philosopher's room, and the Greek theater.
Finally, it's a must that you visit the Teatro Marittimo or the Maritime Theatre. This Maritime Theater is somewhat of an island that offers an elaborate colonnade that is circumscribed by a canal. When Hadrian needed some time to think, it is here where the emperor would get away to. This is considered one of the most popular locations for him to come to when he wanted to express his thoughts in absolute silence and tranquility.
11. Naples
Another one of the best day trips from Rome also happens to be one of the most popular cities in all of Italy. Naples, Italy is indeed a city that you can not miss out on. Naples is located about two hours south of Rome. This makes it the perfect location if you are looking for one of the best day trips from Rome. However, there is plenty to do here that for many, a day trip may not suffice.
What makes this one of the best day trips from Rome is the fact that Naples is Italy's largest and oldest cities. This makes it the go-to place for history buffs and architecture enthusiastic.
What to Do Here
One of the most popular things to do in Naples, Italy is to visit the iconic Mount Vesuvius. This iconic mountain is also a legendary volcano. If you are a hiker, then you will love the trail that is located on Mount Vesuvius. This trail is perfect for exploring this iconic Mountain.
Another hotspot to visit is the Royal Palace of Naples. This Royal Palace is a must for history buffs. At its conception, it was intended to be a hunting lodge for King Charles III. Soon after, this location grew to be a royal residence. Not only that, but it also grew to be the ideal location for the king to house his inherited Farnese collection.
The fantastic collection includes a range of portraits of some of the ruling families members. The legendary Titan painted these portraits. Currently, the collection housed here includes over 500 pictures. Along with the Titan portraits, you can find additional artwork by Mantegna, Caravaggio, Raphael, Botticelli, El Greco, and Bellini. There is also a range of Neapolitan artists from the 17th and 18th centuries whos work is housed here.
When you enter the Royal Apartments, you will be transported to a magical destination in Italian history. In the Royal Apartments, you can expect to be greeted with stunning furniture, tapestries, and stunning porcelain. All these household items were once used in the palace during the Savoy dynasties.
If you enjoy the porcelain collection, then you must make it a point to visit the Salottino di Porcellana. This small room is an absolute wonder as the walls of this room are completely lined with delicate pieces of porcelain. In fact, the porcelain here dates back to the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.
If you are looking for a relaxing evening, then visiting the Naples Harbor is a must as well. This historic harbor is one of the main gateways into the Mediterranean. To really get a sense of this lively and vibrant city, the harbor does a great job. Speaking of the Mediterranean, visiting one of Naples many beaches is a must. The beaches here are absolutely pristine and beautiful.
If you want to take a step back in time, then part of your itinerary on one of the best day trips from Rome should include a trip to the National Archaeological Museum. The National Archaeological Museum is home to some of the world's finest antique collection. In fact, many of the artifacts that survived Pompeii have found their way into the museum here in Naples.
In this Museum, you can expect to find historic marble sculptures. One such sculpture is the Farnese Hercules. This Massive statue measures at 3.17 meters and was found in the Baths of Caracalla in Rome. It is truly a stunning sight to see.
Italy is known for its majestical Cathedrals. When it comes to Naples, there is no exception. One of the most popular things to do in Naples is to visit the cathedral. The cathedral here dates back to the 13th century and is an absolutely stunning work of art. Throughout the years, several earthquakes have destroyed parts of the cathedral. However, attention to restoration has helped keep the Cathedral alive and well.
Once you are inside Naples' popular Cathedral, you can expect to be greeted with the 17th century Chapel of San Gennaro. San Gennaro was considered to be the patron saint of Naples. When you visit the main altar, you will be greeted with a silver bust. This silver bust is where the skull of the saint can be found.
Once you get outside of the Cathedral, you will be greeted by more beauty. There are churches that surround the cathedral that are just as stunning as the Cathedral itself. One of these churches is the Santa Maria Donnaregina. There is also the Baroque Church of San Filippo Neri and the Beautiful San Paolo Maggiore. Lastly, you will also find the San Lorenzo Maggiore. These churches are as historic as they are beautiful. They would make the perfect addition to any day trip from Rome while in Naples.
Finally, it is a must that you cap off one of the best day trips from Rome here by indulging in some of Naples most tastiest meals. Naples is known for their delectable pizza and seafood. It is an absolute must that you sample some of the tasty meals here. Whether it is enjoying a meal on the seaside or dining in one of the many restaurants that call Naples home, you will not be disappointed. Naples is easily one of the best day trip from Rome that we know any traveler will love.
12. Ostia Antica
Credit: Philip Mallis
If you want to get transported into what feels like a whole new world, then Ostia Antica is easily one of the best day trips from Rome. Ostia Antica is conveniently located just about a half hour from Rome. This makes it one of the best if not the most ideal day trips from Rome. Although Ostia Antica was once a port city of Rome. This ancient town has been well preserved over the centuries. Today you can find plenty of entertainment and leisure to participate in.
What to Do Here
Many tourists and locals will often refer to Ostia Antica as “ Pompeii without the crowds.” in addition to Pompeii, Ostia Antica, is arguably one of the most well preserved Roman ruins in all of Italy. Part of the beauty is the fact that this little explored area means that you can avoid crowds nearly all times throughout the year. If the crowds of Pompeii are a little daunting for you, then Ostia Antica is a great alternative.
The history behind Ostia Antica is quite interesting. This city is located right on the mouth of the Tiber River. Because of its location, it was mainly a salt producing town. However, soon after it was taken over by Rome, Ostia Antica quickly grew to be one of Rome's most dominating port cities. Because Ostia Antica was a port city, goods from nearly every corner of the world found their way to this piece of the Mediterranean. However, the fortunes of Ostia Antica did not last long. Soon after, another port was built in Rome, leading to the slow end of Ostia Antica. However, just because the port city is no longer in operation, there is plenty more to experience.
For starters, the Baths of Cisiarii and the Baths of Neptune are one of the most popular features here. The Roman Empire was known for its forward-thinking public structures. One such public structures were these two public baths. When an operation, they had swimming pools, saunas, and even steam rooms. According to some historians, there were even makeshift exercise rooms that were housed here. While the baths are no longer in operation, there are some other things you can do.
When you visit these popular locations, you will be met with some of the most beautiful mosaics that call the inside of these baths home. In the Baths of Cisiarii, you will be greeted with beautiful mosaics that depict Men at Work who are pulling wagons that are carrying clients. These stunning mosaics tell us the story of what ancient Ostia Antica once looked like. For more stunning mosaics, you must visit the baths of Neptune. The Baths of Neptune feature a giant floor mosaic. This floor mosaic shows the Roman and Greek sea god, Neptune, pulling a pack of horses. Surrounding them, there is a beautiful arrangement of monsters and myths depicted as well.
Another popular location to visit in Ostia Antica is the ancient Roman Amphitheater. This Amphitheater is simply too stunning not to visit. This theater was built in the early 1st century and was built by the talented Agrippa. This massive theater seats over 2700 visitors. To this day, you can still catch shows and events every summer. This stunning theatre is separated into two tiers. Historians suggest that the top tier was for the woman while the bottom tier was for the men. The thought behind this was that the men had better viewing areas when seated at the bottom.
Other popular locations that you should visit include the Piazza Delle Corporazioni. This is a huge square that is lined with an eclectic range of vendors that include both merchants and traders. The Piazza used to be the main location where the trade of goods took place. Finally, the Forum, the Mithraeum and the ancient public restrooms are other popular sites that you can not miss out on.
Final Thoughts
If you are a traveler who is setting your sights on Italy, then there are a couple of ways you can explore this magical country. One of the most popular ways is to start from the top of the country and work your way down. However, if you are not a big fan of back-to-back flights and trains, then consider finding a city to call home. From there, you can take day trips out from that city instead. If you are staying in the beautiful city of Rome, then consider this list of some of the best day trips from Rome. Without a doubt, these are some of the best destinations that you can not miss out on.
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