Aug 22, 2023
By Goodnight Staff 
Rome is an incredible city teeming with history, culture, and beauty. With such a variety of attractions, it can be not easy to decide what to do and see in the Eternal City. But why not take a day trip to explore the surrounding areas?
From ancient ruins to stunning lakes and glorious vineyards, there are plenty of amazing day trips to take in and around Rome. Whether you’re interested in a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled outing with the family,you will find some of the best day trips to enjoy in and around the city.
Just over 15 miles southwest of the capital, this thriving port city was a bustling commercial hub in ancient times.
Ostia Antica is one of the most well-preserved Roman sites in Italy, and a visit will give you an authentic insight into what life was like for the inhabitants of this important harbor town. The ruins include temples, roads, homes, businesses, and baths.
You can see these ruins close up on this tour, and they’re a feast for the eyes with their mosaics and frescoes still intact. Plus, you can learn about the area’s history on this half-day tour.
The site is accessible by Metro, and the train station is just across the road from the archaeological park, so there’s no need to worry about getting lost! Once there, take the bridge to get into the archaeological park.
Located in the Lazio region, Tivoli is a beautiful and historic town that is often overlooked. However, it is a must-see for anyone who wishes to get away from the hustle and bustle of Rome and experience some of the country’s most beautiful attractions!
Tivoli is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este. Whether you choose to visit these sights on your own or as part of an organized tour, you will not be disappointed! Afterward, you can take out time to enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.
The ruins of Pompeii offer a glimpse into the lives of ancient Romans. The city was buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and is still a popular tourist destination today.
If you’d like to visit both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius on the same day, you can take a private tour that includes both destinations. Alternatively, you can also take a public bus that regularly runs between the two attractions.
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD wiped out many cities, including both Herculaneum and Pompeii. It also caused major earthquakes in the area, as well as several pyroclastic surges. These pyroclastic surges were a mix of gas and rock fragments, which engulfed nearby cities and caused severe damage.
The Amalfi Coast is among the most beautiful and picturesque parts of Italy. It boasts sandy beaches, medieval charms, delectable cuisines, and panoramic views.
The most suitable time to visit the Amalfi Coast is between April and June when warm weather and flowers bloom. It is also a great opportunity to hike and admire the beauty of the coastline.
While the more celebrated towns of Amalfi and Positano are certainly worth exploring, it is also a good idea to discover the lesser-known villages that have been built on cliffs and carved into the rocks over centuries.
Another fantastic destination to explore on an Amalfi Coast day trip from Rome is Ravello, which boasts a rich history. There are many ruins to explore here, including a Roman temple and a medieval palace that was built on top of a rocky hilltop.
You will also be able to see one of the most famous beaches on the Amalfi Coast, Marina di Praiano, where you can relax and soak up the sun. You can also see the Blue Grotto, which is a natural wonder that is lit by sunlight and looks like it’s glowing from within.
Capri is a popular destination for tourists, and it’s home to some of Italy’s most famous attractions.
One must-see is the Faraglioni rock formations. They’re an iconic landmark in Capri, formed by erosion over thousands of years.
The best way to see these rocks is by taking a boat tour. You can get up close to the formations and snap stunning photos.
It’s also possible to hike along a coastal path called Via Tragara, which will give you a greater view of the formations and allow you to experience the natural beauty of Capri.
Many annual events in Capri make for fun activities and celebrations, including a grape harvest festival in September and the International Folklore Festival in June.
During these times, you’ll be able to witness traditional folk dancing and local music. Visiting Capri during these times is one of the best ways to experience the island’s culture and history.
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is famous for its awe-inspiring masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture. One of the most iconic sights is the Duomo, which features a terracotta-tiled dome engineered by Brunelleschi and a bell tower by Giotto.
If you’re an art buff, then the Uffizi Gallery is an absolute must-visit on your trip to Florence. It houses works by Renaissance legends like Da Vinci, Botticelli, and Michelangelo.
The gallery has long lines, so it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance. Then, you can take your time to savor the works and admire the building’s architecture.
Another great way to spend an afternoon in Florence is to visit the ancient ruins of Fiesole. Located just outside of the city center, this archeological site is a short bus ride away.
Florence, arguably the birthplace of the Renaissance, is still filled with its greatest achievements, from Brunelleschi’s terracotta dome on the Duomo to Michelangelo’s David in Piazza Della Signoria. Its palaces and museums are legendary, especially the vast art collections at the Uffizi Gallery.
A great place to start your day in Florence is the Duomo Museum, where you can see Brunelleschi’s model for the dome, a show-stopping recreation of the cathedral, and Lorenzo Ghiberti’s extraordinary North and East Doors of the Baptistery. You should also pay a visit to the Giotto-designed campanile and Battistero di San Giovanni.
Another fantastic place to start your day is Piazza Della Signoria, home to several celebrated landmarks, including the lavish town hall, Palazzo Vecchio, and the vast Galleria Degli Uffizi.
You should also try and squeeze in a visit to the Galleria dell’Accademia, which is home to Michelangelo’s David sculpture, as well as other masterpieces of the High Renaissance.
If you’re lucky enough to have more time on your hands, head to the Mercato Centrale, an impressive outdoor market with cheeses, cured meats, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to sit and sample some local produce before heading back to the hotel for dinner.
Tuscany has a lot of hill towns that are perfect for a day trip from Rome. These villages have great views, beautiful old streets, and lots of history to tell!
Tuscany’s hill towns are the perfect place to get lost in Italy’s idyllic countryside. Often found in movies, their quaint streets and beautiful architecture make for stunning photos.
In the northern part of this region is Pienza, a UNESCO-listed renaissance town with plenty of historical sites to see. You can walk through its cobbled streets and ceramics shops and get introduced to Tuscan specialties like pecorino cheese and wild boar.
Montepulciano is another Tuscan hill town with a lot to offer. You can visit the 13th-century fortress in the morning and sample velvety red wines in the afternoon.
Arezzo is one of Tuscany’s best-kept secrets. It’s world-famous for its ceramics and metal processing, which has brought wealth to the city over time.
The picturesque medieval village of Certaldo is also worth visiting. Here, you’ll find one of the best-preserved medieval centers in the country. You’ll also find a museum dedicated to Etruscan artifacts and the stunning Palazzo Pretorio, which was once a residence for Florentine governors.
Often surrounded by thick defensive walls, these charming towns offer visitors a real taste of medieval life. They are rich in art, often have medieval castles, and boast fascinating museums.
Aside from a few more famous towns like Florence and Siena, you can also find some lesser-known gems in the region. For example, Suvereto is a sleepy little town that is one of the best places to enjoy the beauty of Italy.
With a castle spotted with lichen above the slim alleyways of its medieval center, it is a beautiful place to visit. The village is surrounded by vineyards, and the gastronomy of this area is amazing.
Volterra is a jewel of Tuscany and arguably one of the best hilltop towns you can visit. It offers everything you need in a Tuscan hilltop village – including a gorgeous main square, a charming Palazzo dei Priori, and some fascinating museums.
Located at the cusp of Umbria, Lazio, and Tuscany, Orvieto is the perfect place to escape the crowds of Rome and experience something truly special. This tiny city is bursting with history, churches, and stunning views, not to mention some of Italy’s best wine!
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Orvieto is a fascinating city that holds the history of the Etruscans close to its heart. Orvieto is home to several archeological sites, including a series of caverns that lie beneath the city, which were believed to have been used by noble families as hiding places during attacks on the town.
There are various things to see and do in Orvieto, from the ancient ruins of Belvedere Temple to a stroll through the town’s necropolis. But one of the most interesting things to do in Orvieto is to climb up to the Torre del Moro, a historical tower that provides incredible views over the city.
Another great thing to do in Orvieto is to take a tour of the underground labyrinth of tunnels and caves that lie under the city. These are full of archeological discoveries from the Etruscan era, Middle Ages, and Renaissance periods. You can book a tour with Orvieto Underground on their website.
The biggest attraction in Caserta is undoubtedly the Royal Palace of Caserta, known as Reggia di Caserta. This UNESCO World Heritage site dated back to the 18th century and was built by the Bourbon Kings of Naples.
Designed by Luigi Vanvitelli, this massive Baroque palace is an architectural marvel that spreads out before you as a grid of enormous courtyards. It is one of the most impressive buildings in Europe.
Its symmetry isn’t the only thing that makes it stand out; its park is also one of the best in Campania, embellished with fountains, waterfalls, statues, and groves. You can walk its shady paths, cycle, or horse and cart through the expansive grounds.
While Caserta is famous for its immense baroque palace, there’s much more to see on this day trip from Rome! Visit the nearby amphitheater of Capua, explore medieval and baroque cities, and admire landscapes.
The vast Palace of Caserta has a mind-boggling number of rooms, staircases, and luxuriously appointed apartments. Its Baroque interiors are richly decorated to the tastes of the 18th-century kings, and many paintings hang in the rooms.
During the summer, Campania can get busy with tourists, but Caserta is relatively quiet during most of the year. Going to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Caserta Royal Palace is an exciting day trip from Naples and offers plenty of opportunities to explore this beautiful region.
One of the more stunning features of the palace is the Scalone D’Onore, a multi-colored marble staircase designed by Vanvitelli that combines baroque and classic architectural elements. It is a directional architectural piece that influenced the staircase design of aristocratic residences throughout Europe.
Another opulent example of the Baroque is the National Library, which houses a large collection of papyrus scrolls from Herculaneum and remnants of a 5th-century Coptic Bible. Moreover, the library has a stunning collection of letters written by renowned composers such as Guiseppe Verdi and Franz Liszt.
Assisi is a UNESCO World Heritage site with incredible historical sites and churches, including the Basilica of Saint Francis. Though the city is most famous for its religious attractions, it also features beautiful scenery and remnants of its medieval heritage.
A stroll through the town’s medieval streets is a great way to explore. Tours are available that combine history with other activities, including shopping and food-and-wine tasting.
While in Assisi, consider visiting the Temple of Minerva, an ancient Roman structure. It sits high in the town and dominates the view.
Visitors can also get a great view of the Basilica of Saint Francis from this high spot. It’s a steep walk uphill, but it’s well worth the effort.
Another must-see is the First Franciscan Community, a set of rustic stone shelters where the early Franciscan followers lived and worshiped. These buildings serve as a reminder of the poverty and simplicity that was embraced by St. Francis and his followers.
Food and wine are hugely popular in Assisi, and many tours focus on the region’s rich culinary tradition. Some tours include tastings at a family-owned organic winery, and others feature traditional foods like cured meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
Dedicated to the memory of one of Catholicism’s most venerated saints, Assisi is an enchanting medieval hill town in central Umbria. Explore its renowned basilica and visit the birth place of St Francis, the patron saint of animals, who lived here.
Assisi can feel busy and chaotic during peak season, with knick-knack stalls and tourist restaurants crowding its streets. If you stay after the day trippers have left, its quiet streets reveal an entirely different side to this famous pilgrimage destination.
The best way to get around Assisi is on foot. Start your exploration at Piazza Giovanni Paolo II, which has ample public parking and is one of the main bus stops for those taking the local bus from the train station (check schedules at the bus stop and purchase tickets at the bar in the train station).
Then, walk uphill to the Church of Santa Stefano. This small church has a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere, especially after dark when the bells toll in silence. A walk up the hill to Rocca Maggiore, a fortress on the hill overlooking Assisi, is also a must.
Bracciano is a popular tourist destination, and a day trip to Bracciano is an unforgettable experience. Located on the edge of Lake Bracciano, the town is surrounded by rolling green hills and lush vineyards, making it a great spot for a relaxing holiday.
The town of Bracciano is home to several important historical sites. The most famous is the Castello Orsini-Odescalchi, a 15th-century castle built by the powerful Orsini family. The castle is a breathtaking sight, with its imposing towers and beautiful gardens. Inside, visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and admire the art and artifacts from the Renaissance period.
The town of Bracciano is also home to many other attractions. Those looking for some invigorating outdoor activities can take a walk or a boat ride around the lake or explore the surrounding countryside on horseback. For those interested in art and culture, there are several museums and art galleries to visit.
Shopping is another popular activity in Bracciano. There are a variety of boutiques and markets to explore, selling everything from handmade crafts to designer clothes. There are also various cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Italian cuisine and sample local delicacies.
No visit to Bracciano is complete without tasting the local wines. The area has several wineries, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample the delicious wines of the region.
A short ferry ride away from the Italian capital, Ponza is a little-known island of unspoiled beauty and charm. It’s a popular getaway for Romans and Neapolitans looking for a quiet place to relax.
The island’s 22km (14-mile) craggy coastline is studded with emerald coves and promontories, which are ideal for exploring by chartered boat. The waters are crystal clear, sandy, or rocky, depending on where you go, and there is plenty of fish to spot.
You can also explore the ruins on the island, which include the remains of two Roman necropolises and the infamous Grotte de Pilato, where biblical villain Pontius Pilate swam. There are also several grottoes and reefs, a popular spot for divers.
When it comes to eating, Ponza’s gastronomic heritage is all about local legumes and seafood. The most popular dishes are linguine c’o fellone, stuffed squid, and pontine casatiello.
It’s best to visit the island in June or September when it’s not too busy, and prices are lower. A week is a good time to stay on the island, especially if you want to see everything!
You can visit the island on a day trip from Rome or by renting a boat. Several companies offer this service, and it’s a fun and unique way to see the island.
Another option is to take a helicopter. This is a fun way to get there and saves you a lot of time!
It’s worth noting that you will need a vehicle to explore all of the different coves. This is more so if you are planning on renting a boat, as there will be a limited amount of boats available.
Historically, Ponza and its sister islands were places of exile for the Roman emperors. They sent family members or political enemies who were deemed unruly there.
The small town of Frascati, located 20 kilometers southeast of Rome on the Alban Hills, is famous for its aristocratic villas, built as summer retreats by rich Roman families during the Renaissance and baroque periods. These are set in magnificent gardens that still provide awe-inspiring views.
With its compact historical center, beautiful villas, and delicious food and wine, Frascati is a refreshing day trip from Rome. The town was once a popular retreat for noble Romans and boasted several impressive Renaissance and baroque villas.
You can easily visit Frascati on a guided tour that lasts an hour and a half. The trip starts at the train station and takes you into the historic center of Frascati to admire ancient churches, villas, and vineyards.
On the way, you’ll also stop at a winery for a tasting experience. If you have time, you can also explore the nearby Tusculum, Cicero’s favorite resort, which is just a short distance away from Frascati.
The Tusculum day trip also offers you a chance to enjoy the local cuisine, explore the local markets, and buy souvenirs to take home. You can taste the traditional dishes of the city and get a chance to sample some of the most delicious food Italy has to offer. You can also visit the local wineries and sample some of their best wines.
The best way to see the aristocratic villas of Frascati is by joining an organized tour, which can also include a wine-tasting experience.
The tours can also take you to other hilltop towns in the Castelli Romani region, like Castel Gandolfo (the Pope’s summer home) or Nemi and Roca di Papa, which are also worth visiting.
This picturesque enclave of medieval castles was the cradle of the early modern villeggiatura or villa culture. It grew out of the ancient Roman ideal of otium or learned leisure or restorative withdrawal, and it was shaped by Renaissance artistic theory that placed the humanists and churchmen as the model for the ideal.
To get to Frascati, take the train from Roma Termini Station (about EUR2 and 30 minutes). You can also rent a car or join an organized tour.
The town is the best-known as the Castelli Romani, the castle town of the Alban Hills. Its aristocratic villas were built in a dominant position around it during the Renaissance, and are among the finest examples of Italian architecture from that period.
Tuscania is a beautiful, quaint town located ninety minutes north of Rome on the border of Lazio and Tuscany. It has been admired for centuries for its picturesque setting, fine culture and foods, medieval walls, and cobblestone streets.
There are a number of things to see and do in Tuscania, including visiting the Colle San Pietro archaeological park. You can learn about the history of this small city by seeing Roman, Etruscan, and medieval remnants in a guided tour.
You’ll also find some lovely churches in Tuscania, including the Church of San Marco and Santa Croce. These two venerable structures are both well worth a visit, with their brick facades and rose windows, not to mention their pretty gardens.
Another highlight of Tuscania is its many restaurants and pizzerias, which are all very traditional. You can try a wide variety of Italian cuisine, including pasta dishes, sandwiches, pizzas, and light meals.
In addition, there are also some weekly open-air markets where you can buy local goods. It is a great way to get acquainted with the locals and explore their culture. The shops here are mostly family-run businesses that have been around for years and are popular among the locals.
Located in Viterbo province, Tuscania is one of the top day-trip destinations from Rome. It’s a 90-kilometer (56-mile) drive from the capital and can be reached by train.
The town itself is sleepy, with a walled medieval center that dates from the 16th century. Strolling along the cobbled streets and hidden corners, you can discover medieval churches.
A few of the main sights are within walking distance of the city center, including the Basilica di San Pietro on Colle di San Pietro and Santa Maria Maggiore. These churches have been built on the site of the Etruscan acropolis and evoke the town’s past as an important center of culture.
There are also many Etruscan necropolises around Tuscania, especially the Necropolis of Madonna dell’Olivo with tombs dating to the 5th and 1st centuries BC.
These include tombs of the Curunas family with remarkable sarcophaguses, as well as those of the Vipinana and Caracello families. There are also a series of labyrinths, with thirty tunnels, that run throughout the necropolis.
Santa Marinella Beach is a stunning beach near Rome, Italy. This secluded beach is surrounded by the Circeo National Park and has little commercial development apart from a few stabilimenti that rent umbrellas and sun beds.
It’s an ideal option for solo travelers, families, and relaxation getaway lovers. You’ll find a peaceful and natural environment here with plenty of amenities, including loungers and umbrellas, a beach restaurant, changing rooms, and showers.
You can also enjoy different water activities, including catamarans and jet skis. It’s an excellent spot to relax and unwind, and there are even a few restaurants along the beach where you can grab lunch or dinner.
To get there, you’ll need to take a train from Rome (Roma Termini, Ostiense Trastevere, or San Pietro). It’s a 1-hour ride, and the return ticket is EUR4 to EUR10.
Once you’re on the beach, you can relax in the sun, or if it’s still early in the day, head to one of the many seafood restaurants. A favorite is L’Acqua Marina, which is a beautiful restaurant that’s a 10-minute walk from the beach at Piazza Trieste 8.
Its main beach is so close to the train station that all you need to do is follow the swimsuit-wearing crowd and you’ll find it: a small bay with clear water. It has a mix of both rocky areas as well as gorgeous sandy parts.
This beach is also popular with families as it has a lot of shady places for those who want to sit and relax. There are plenty of restaurants near the water to satisfy your humger.
Another beach town to consider is Sperlonga, located about 90 minutes south of Rome by train (Roma Termini, Ostiense Trastevere, or San Pietro). It has a few free beaches but also some private beach clubs. It’s also home to some of the best pristine waters in Italy and is worth a visit for this reason alone.
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