Although it would take you a lifetime to see everything Rome has to offer, we encourage our guests to explore the nearby sites, attractions, and towns near the Eternal City for a fuller taste of the region and all its treasures. Rome is a great base for taking day trips to discover ancient archeological sites, landscaped gardens, hilltop villages, and even the Pope’s summer residence. Here are TreasureRome’s top five experiences!
A beautiful hilltop town located just 40 minutes from Rome, Tivoli is famous for its parks, gardens, and villas. Take a tour through Villa d’Este, a 16th-century Renaissance villa with hundreds of water fountains, statues, grottos, and other architectural details. Then step back even further in time at Villa Adriana, or Hadrian’s Villa, a vast archeological park that dates back to the 2nd century. Last but not least, explore Villa Gregoriana and dine at a picturesque trattoria located just beside the ruins.
Just one hour north of Rome, Orvieto is a charming medieval town in Umbria that is filled with homemade artisan ceramics, linens, and a variety of delicious gourmet meats, cheeses, and oils. The impressive cathedral in the town center is worth a visit in its own right. After a walk through the town, head into the countryside for a traditional meal at an agriturismo. And don’t miss the chance to visit nearby Civita di Bagnoreggio or ‘the dying city’: this town is something you have to see to believe.
The ancient port city of Ostia Antica was a thriving center for trade during the Roman Republic (509 – 27 BC) and functioned as Rome’s primary seaport during this time. There are dozens of fascinating sights to explore, including ancient baths, shops, a Jewish synagogue, temples dedicated to the Persian god Mithra and a Roman theater, where performances are still held to this day during the summer months. The site is easy to reach on the Ostia Train Line or we can help you arrange a private transfer to reach the archeological park.
The Castelli Romani, or “Roman Castles”, are a collection of hilltop towns located southeast of Rome and built around two volcanic lakes: Lago Albano and Lago di Nemi. Rome’s nobility used to flock here in the summer months to escape the heat and the towns provide a welcome respite from the frenzy of the capital: enjoy local food and wine while you soak in small-town charm. Each town also boasts a unique culinary tradition, like white wine from Frascati, bread from Genzano, wild strawberries from Nemi, and porchetta from Ariccia.
Within the many towns of the Castelli Romani, Castel Gandolfo is worth a visit in particular because it is home to the Apostolic Palace, better known as the Pope’s summer residence. This incredible property was commissioned by Pope Urban VII in the 17th century and features landscaped Barberini Gardens that rival the grounds of Versailles. Explore the residence before dining at a lakeside restaurant in the charming town.
Looking for more things to do around Rome? We have a great selection of day trip proposals on our Experiences page.
