Neighborhoods of Rome: what to see near the Eternal City. the outskirts of rome - what to see - italy. tours and holidays from tour operator Avanti
If your tour includes free days, but you don’t want to stay in the city, you can diversify your trip with a trip to the outskirts of Rome. East To the east of the capital lies an area glorified by writers
Tivoli (30 km from Rome)
A medieval town built on Roman ruins, some of which can still be seen. But its main asset is 3 villas, each of which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Villa d'Este (1550) was built in the 16th century by Cardinal Hippolyte d'Este on the site of a Benedictine monastery. The prototype of Versailles and Petrodvorets: gardens, cascades of fountains (more than 100 in total), terraces.
Villa Adriana (118 AD) - Villa of 500 fountains. Villa Adriana during the imperial period exceeded the size of the center of Rome. The owner was a passionate traveler and recreated the buildings he saw and loved in the villa.
Villa Gregoriana - grottoes, waterfalls (height about 160m), caves and mountain paths in the city center, above which rise a couple of ancient temples.
North
Bracciano (Bracciano)(40 km from Rome)
A compact and very authentic town, interesting for the ancient castle of the Orsini-Odescalchi family, the outline of which has the shape of a polygon. The castle was built in the second half of the 15th century by Napoleon Orsini high above Lake Bracciano and decorated inside with frescoes by Antoniazzo Romano, paintings by Zuccari and sculptures from the school of Bernini. In particular, Tom Cruise's wedding took place in this castle. The best castle rooms overlook the beautiful lake.
Civitavecchia (82 km from Rome)
A port town that grew up on the site of ancient Centumcelle, which replaced Ostia as the main port of Rome in the 1st century AD. e. and continued to remain so for almost two thousand years, after which it fell into decline for the same reason as Pisa - the coastline moved away.
It is worth seeing the citadel (16th century), one of the forts of which was designed by Michelangelo (the travel agency is located in the citadel), the remains of the Roman port, Rocca Castle (15th century), the Cathedral of San Francesco d'Assisi (1610), the Baths of Taurine on the northern outskirts of the city, the National Archaeological Museum and the notorious "miracle of Civitavecchia" In 1995, the statue of Madonnina de Civitavecchia, standing in a private garden of the town, suddenly began to "cry tears of blood", and until now this unusual phenomenon has been recorded more and more. ten times.
Viterbo(94 km from Rome)
Italian Avignon, seat of the Roman Popes. Before that - the Etruscan capital (there is an excellent Etruscan museum - near the Porte Fiorentina gate). San Pellegrino, a residential quarter of the 14th century, is perfectly preserved. In Piazza San Lorenzo, the 12th century cathedral and the Papal Palace with a loggia are worthy of attention. Churches, monasteries, preserved residential towers and many authentic streets are scattered throughout the city.
Orvieto(132 km from Rome)
A beautiful city made of tuff on the mountain. Scientists threaten that the tuff is unreliable, but local residents are confident that the city has stood for a thousand years, and will stand for as long. The local cathedral is in no way inferior to the Siena one.
Grosseto(189 km from Rome)
The city, recaptured by Florence from Siena, rebuilt by the Medici and surrounded by a “signature” citadel wall with 6 bastions (dogs live in one of them). You can walk around the entire city along the wall, admiring the center and surrounding area. The city cathedral looks like a multi-colored marble box, and the Palazzo Publico is surprisingly similar to the Siena palazzo.
South
Frascati (21 km from Rome )
The picturesque Alban hills were appreciated in antiquity - rich Romans built villas here, in the Middle Ages lords built their castles here, later rich families built many beautiful residences around Frascati, the best of which is considered to be Villa Aldobrandini, which is impossible not to notice - the majestic belvedere is visible from everywhere. Unfortunately, the villa is privately owned and it is unlikely that you will be able to visit it, but from behind the gate you can admire the park with statues, fountains and grottoes.
Castel Gandolfo (23 km from Rome)
On the picturesque hills near the capital, on the site of the legendary city of Alba Longa - the birthplace of Remus and Romulus, lies an entire recreation area for the Roman nobility and emperors. Nowadays this is the residence of the Pope. This is another opportunity to cross the Italian-Vatican border.
You can wander the streets, admire the Vatican flags and flower-covered windows, and take spectacular pictures of the lake and the papal guards, in front of whom there are no crowds of tourists. The Pope himself celebrates Mass in the local church every Sunday.
Nearby lie the unique crater lakes Alba and Nemi, giving the landscape a special charm.
Ostia Antica (28 km from Rome) p>
A former busy seaport of the Roman Empire, famous for its ancient amphitheater, numerous temples, cobbled streets, luxurious baths, theater, Capitol and necropolis. It is much closer to Rome than Pompeii and Herculaneum, but no less interesting. Pay attention to the Castello di Giulio (15th century) and the Archaeological Museum.
Lido di Ostia(28 km from Rome)
Not far from the old city of Ostia Antica, a later city arose with a modernrecreation area - crowded sandy beaches (entrance fee), small hotels, a beautiful promenade and many bars and restaurants.
Velletri(38 km from Rome)
During the Roman period, many patrician villas were built in the city. The city also has an ancient amphitheater and several temples. After the barbarian invasion in 410, the city fell into decay. In the Middle Ages, the commune gradually began to recover and flourish.
During the bombings in 1943 and 1944, many historical monuments of the city were destroyed. It is worth noting the 16th century church of Santa Maria del Sangve, the church of San Antonio Sabate (14th century), the Gothic bell tower of Santa Maria in Trivio, erected in 1353 in gratitude to the city for deliverance from the plague epidemic that ended in 1348. St. Clement's Cathedral was built on the ruins of an ancient temple in the 14th century.
Anzio(63 km from Rome)
An ancient port located in the south of the province of Roma, from the 4th century. BC e. was both a favorite vacation spot of the Roman patricians and an important religious center - the city housed the largest sanctuary of the goddess Fortune, surrounded by the villas of nobles and emperors (many of them have survived to this day in varying degrees of preservation). Now it is a popular seaside resort with a 12-kilometer beach area, a recognized center of cultural life and a departure point for the nearby Pontine Islands.
Nettuno(65 km from Rome)
Anzio is practically adjacent to another first-class seaside resort - Nettuno. And it is from here that one of the most popular beach areas of the Tyrrhenian Sea coast begins - Riviera di Ulisse, stretching almost 100 km almost to the Gulf of Naples.
Here are such famous places as the city of Gaeta with its Cathedral, the Diocesan Museum, numerous churches and a castle, the city of Formia with the ruins of the Temple of Janus and the Theater of Trajan; the resort town of Sperlonga, famous for its grottoes, beaches and narrow streets; the oldest settlement in the region is the town of Itri and the nearby monastery of Madonna della Civita; the city of Cassino with its best water park in the region, as well as resort centers: Latina, Sabaudia, San Felici Circeo, Terracina, Fondi, Minturno Scauri, etc.
Pontine Islands (135 km from Rome)
The Lazio region also includes a small group of Ponizian islands - Ponza, Palmarola, Zannone, Ventotene, Santo Stefano, Gavi and La Botte. This archipelago of volcanic origin, lying almost in the center of the Tyrrhenian Sea, due to the diversity of its landscapes and picturesque settlements, is considered the most extraordinary place in the Tyrrhenian Sea. The waters surrounding it have an average depth of 30-50 meters, the underwater geology is extremely unusual (a volcanic area after all), and therefore this area is extremely popular with divers.
Montecassino (144 km from Rome)
one of the main religious and cultural centers of the Middle Ages. The real treasure of the monastery is the richest library, numbering more than 100,000 volumes and manuscripts (including unique ones) from the 6th to the 20th centuries.
The restoration of the famous monastery "where it was and as it was", financed by the state, was carried out in just one decade, and today we can see an exact copy of the former Montecassino - with its basilica, Loggia Paradiso, numerous beautifully decorated courtyards, residential and economic buildings.
Most of the surviving works of art are kept in the monastery museum, but about the sad events. The Second World War resembles a huge memorial cemetery where more than 1,000 Polish soldiers who died during the liberation of Montecassino in May 1944 are buried.
DAY TRIPS FROM ROME
There are several cities within a 2-4 hour drive from Rome by train or car, a one-day visit to each of which will be a real gift for a lover of culture and art.
Arezzo(227 km north of Rome)
Arezzo is one of the richest cities in Tuscany. Arezzo has preserved monuments from the Middle Ages: the first place among them is the famous frescoes of the Church of San Francesco. On Corso Italia, the central street of the city, stands the church of Pieve di Santa Maria, whose pride is one of the most elegant Romanesque facades in Tuscany. Today, the main industry of Arezzo's economy is the production of jewelry.
Sienna(245 km north of Rome)
Thousands of people come here every year from all over Italy to admire the amazing “reserve” of the Middle Ages. Siena has preserved its ancient appearance better than other Italian cities. Even residents of the new quarters, located outside the medieval walls, gravitate towards the old center. And everything in it is as it was in the 13th-14th centuries.
Florence(284 km north of Rome)
One of the most beautiful cities in Italy and the whole world, the capital of the Italian Renaissance and the birthplace of Dante, Machiavelli and Michelangelo, Florence is undoubtedly on the list of must-see cities in Italy.
Its streets, squares, palaces and temples are decorated with the creations of great Italian masters. Any walk will become an unforgettable journey through the historical places of the city. The historic city center is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Pisa(384 km north of Rome)
The main attraction of Pisa is the architectural ensemble on the Square of Miracles (Piazza dei Miracoli). This cathedral ensemble has no equal in the world. The three buildings of the complex - the Cathedral, the Baptistery and the Leaning Tower of Pisa - are made of sparkling white marble. In the center stands the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, famous for its size; to the west of it is the beautiful Baptistery, and to the left rises the famous bell tower, which went down in art history under the name “Leaning Tower”.
Bologna(390 km north of Rome)
The seventh most populous city in Italy. The historic center of Bologna is considered one of the best preserved centers in Europe; in terms of its importance, it ranks second in the country after Venice. Due to the good condition of its historical center, Bologna has been recognized as "the most picturesque city in the world."
The double symbol of Bologna is the “falling” towers of Torre Garisenda, 48 meters high, and Torre degli Asinelli, 98 meters high. The latter can be climbed by climbing 498 steps of a ladder. Bologna is also famous for its cooking, which forms part of the life philosophy of every resident of Bologna, for which it received the humorous prefix “fat”.
Naples(227 km south of Rome)
The main city of southern Italy and the third largest city in the country, the most controversial city in Italy - you either love it or hate it. Life in Naples is noisier, more intense, brighter and simpler than in other cities. Naples is an extraordinary, lively and vibrant city, every block in it is a separate village, every street is a set for a street show, and everything around seems like sketches for an opera that has not yet been composed. They say that even Italians from the north come here to feel the spirit of the authentic, former Italy.
The outskirts of Rome are no less beautiful than the Eternal City itself, because patricians and members of imperial families built their villas in the suburbs of the capital. Wonderful romantic buildings, surrounded by luxurious parks, await travelers a short distance from Rome. It is quite possible to get to them on your own using public transport, or rent a car and move from one attraction to another with ease.
What to see in the vicinity of Rome.
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Tivoli and its villas
One of the most breathtaking places in the vicinity of Rome is the city of Tivoli. It is located not far from Rome (24 km) on the Anio River and includes all the pleasures of an Italian holiday: ancient magnificent architecture, picturesque natural beauty and family restaurants with traditional cuisine. Tivoli is known throughout the world for its villas, which are definitely worth seeing if you find yourself in Italy.
1. Villa d'Este.
This building is called the most beautiful building in all of Italy. The villa was built for Cardinal Ippolito II in the 16th century. Medieval and Renaissance architecture harmoniously fit into the appearance of Villa d'Este. It is surrounded by a rich garden, inscribed in the Italian landscape, five hundred fountains, numerous grottoes, pools and ponds. It was Villa d’Este that the architects were guided by when designing Versailles and Peterhof.
2. Villa Adriana.
This villa was built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. Hadrian is known as an emperor-architect, philosopher and artist, and there is an opinion that the villa was built according to his design. The huge archaeological center includes libraries, gardens, baths, a theater, a temple, and the emperor's chambers. Villa Adriana was decorated with originals and copies of famous works of art: sculpted statues, paintings, frescoes and mosaics are still preserved on the territory of the villa. After Hadrian, the villa was a favorite place of emperors and retains traces of the grandeur of the Roman era.
3. Villa Gregory
The villa is named after Pope Gregory XVI, who in 1832 ordered the course of the Aniene River to be changed due to frequent floods. Thanks to this, stunning waterfalls arose, which both tourists and residents of Italy come to see. Villa Gregory is attractive with its romantic landscape, grottoes, colorful paths, cliffs, and fascinating alleys. You will especially enjoy visiting the elegant round temple of Vesta from the 1st century BC, which later became Christian, as well as the windowed tunnel that was built through the picturesque rocks.
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How to get there?
- By bus. Departure from Ponte Mammolo metro station or from Tibertina station. The fare costs only about 2 euros and you will reach Tivoli in 40 minutes.
- By train. Departure point: Tibertina or Termini train stations. The train can take almost an hour and costs 2.60 euros.
Bracciano
A must-see is the small medieval town of Bracciano, located in close proximity to Rome. The city is located on the shores of an amazing crystal lake, after which it was named. Be sure to stroll through the narrow, inviting streets lined with medieval signs and old family-run restaurants. But the main attractions of the city of Bracciano are of course the castle and the lake.
1. Lake Bracciano
The lake is of volcanic origin and once upon a time in its place there was a village that was flooded. The lake is very clean, because the authorities prohibit the use of motor vehicles and the dumping of waste, and its water is a drinking source for nearby cities, including Rome. The opening landscape amazes with its pristineness and pure beauty, and volcanic beaches with black sand and swimming in clear water will provide a break from exhausting walks.
2. Bracciano Castle
The first tower of this castle was founded in the 10th century and since then it has had many eminent owners and has developed throughout its existence. The romantic defensive architecture of the ancient building is filled with many legends and secrets that the guide will share with you. You will see the Papal Room, the Etruscan Hall with ancient exhibits, the chambers of Isabella de' Medici, the Hall of the Caesars and even the utility rooms of the castle.
How to get there?
Bracciano can be reached by train from Rome, from Ostiense station. The trip takes only 30 minutes and costs 3 euros. Your stop is Bracciano station.
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Those who are tired of the fast pace, noise and bustle of Rome can admire the sights of the suburbs, which are no less interesting and popular than the capital.
The outskirts of Rome: what to see here and what you can get acquainted with?
Picturesque lakes and mountains, ancient castles and villas, streets of ancient cities - all this is located at a distance of only 40-60 km from the capital.
Lake Bracciano
One of the nearby tourist towns is Bracciano. This charming Italian town with its cobbled streets feels like you've been transported back in time several centuries. In addition to old traditions passed down from generation to generation, here you will find a crystal clear lake with the same name as the city and the Orsini-Odescalchi castle, which has not changed its appearance for several centuries. [More about Bracciano ]
Cerveteri
Another settlement located northwest of Rome is Cerveteri. Cerveteri is a city with a rich history, on the territory of which there was a settlement of the ancient Etruscan civilization. Cerveteri is surrounded by a whole complex of necropolises (ancient cemeteries), in which representatives of one of the most progressive Etruscan civilizations at that time rest.
The Etruscans believed that a person, leaving for the afterlife, had to have his own home, therefore, for the deceased, entire houses with all the necessary utensils were built a little far from the city of the living, and this is how entire cities of the dead appeared - necropolises. Having visited such a necropolis, you feel a special connection between the past and the present, the world of the dead with the world of the living.
View of the necropolis near Cerveteri. Each round building is the home of the deceased.
Tivoli
The most famous city in the vicinity of Rome is Tivoli, a city known since antiquity. It welcomes tourists with picturesque nature and ancient architecture, but most of all it is famous for three villas: d'Este, Adriana and Gregorian.
- Villa d'Este is located in the city center, it is a beautiful park with many fountains and elegant sculptures. It is believed that Villa d'Este became the prototype of Versailles and Peterhof.
- The next villa is the richest estate of Emperor Hadrian, of which only ruins now remain. The villa is surrounded by a wonderful olive grove, nearby is the Kanop pond, in which, according to legend, the handsome Antinous, considered Hadrian’s favorite, drowned.
Ruins of Hadrian's Villa. In addition to these remains, the villa has an excellent park and a swimming pool with sculptures
- And the third is Villa Gregoriana. This villa is essentially a huge park where you will see impressive waterfalls, dark caves, giant grottoes and ancient temples. This is a place that is pointless to describe, it is worth seeing. [More about Tivoli ]
Villa Gregoriana waterfall
Review of three Tivoli villas in video:
Ostia
Ostia is an ancient port city that reached its peak during the imperial period, becoming a major business and trade center. Unfortunately, now its population has decreased several times, but a large number of attractions remain. Today it is an archaeological complex where you can fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the ancient Roman city: charming streets, richly decorated baths, a theater, a tavern, temples, houses of the nobility and ordinary citizens.
In addition, here you will find a great beach where you can soak up the warm Italian sun.
Ostia beach
"Roman Castles" or Albanian Mountains
Another attraction of the outskirts of Rome are the so-called “Roman castles” (Albanian hills). The Albanian Mountains are an area that combines a natural park and several small towns; this place was a favorite of the ancient Roman nobility in the past and remains attractive to most Romans today.
The enchanting beauty of volcanic lakes and magnificent landscapes, the aromas of traditional Italian cuisine and excellent wines - a real paradise for gourmets and nature lovers, it seems that everything here is shrouded in peace and tranquility.
View of the “Albanian Mountains” and the nearby lake
Naturally, a walk through the suburbs of the Italian capital does not end there, because the outskirts of Rome are an entire country with magnificent nature and famous architectural monuments. It is not for nothing that these places have so attracted poets and artists, ancient emperors and aristocrats in all centuries.
Most tourists and travelers dream of visiting Rome. Some have already realized their cherished dream, others are just planning a trip to the Eternal City. What explains such popularity of the Italian capital? Why do thousands of people come here every year?
Rome is an amazing treasury of unique historical, architectural and cultural monuments that many people want to see with their own eyes. If you have already been to the capital of Italy several times, and it seems to you that you know well the interesting and memorable places of this city (although, in our opinion, this will take a lifetime), we suggest you go to the outskirts of Rome. What to see in the nearest suburbs of the capital? We assure you that the areas surrounding the bustling and modern city will seem very interesting to you, and the attractions of the suburb are not inferior to the capital - picturesque mountains and lakes, ancient castles and villas, the streets of ancient cities - all this is located at a distance of no more than 60 km from the capital.
Cerveteri
We will begin our acquaintance with the outskirts of Rome from a settlement located northwest of the capital - Cerveteri. This is a town with a rich history, where in ancient times there was an Etruscan settlement. Cerveteri is surrounded by a complex of ancient cemeteries (necropolises), in which representatives of one of the most progressive civilizations in those distant times found their final refuge.
The Etruscans were convinced that a person who had gone to the afterlife should have a home, so they built large houses for the deceased with the necessary utensils a little away from the city of the living. This is how necropolises appeared. Having visited one of them, you feel a special connection between the past and the present.
Tivoli
The most famous and frequently visited city in the vicinity of Rome is Tivoli, known since ancient times. It welcomes tourists with magnificent nature and ancient architecture. The town is famous for its three villas: Adriana, Gregoriana and d'Este.
Villa d'Este is located in the very center of the city. This is a magnificent park with fountains and elegant sculptures. Experts are sure that this particular villa became the prototype of Peterhof and Versailles. If you are an admirer of the beauty of gardens, we recommend visiting Villa d’Este. It is located opposite Villa Adriana. This is a magnificent estate, but it is the gardens that tourists come here most often to see. What's remarkable about them? This is a collection of unique and unusual plants, as well as picturesque landscapes.
Take a walk through the winding labyrinths - at every step you will find a surprise in the form of an elegant statue or a musical fountain. In addition, the garden has amazingly beautiful waterfalls. And when you get a little tired from the walk, you can relax and drink a cup of aromatic coffee in small cozy restaurants or buy a souvenir in the boutiques located along the narrow streets of the villa.
The third villa is Gregoriana. This is a huge park where you can see dark caves, impressive waterfalls, ancient temples and huge grottoes. This place is a must see.
Ostia
The next place in the vicinity of Rome that deserves your attention is the ancient port city, which reached its heyday during the imperial period. It was at this time that it became a major trade and business center. Nowadays, its population has decreased several times, but many attractions remain.
First of all, this is an archaeological complex in which you can feel the atmosphere of an ancient Roman city: narrow streets, luxuriously decorated baths, a tavern, a theater, houses of ordinary citizens and nobles, temples... In addition, here you can relax on an excellent beach.
Assisi
You can see attractions in the vicinity of Rome in the Italian region of Umbria, located two hours' drive from the capital. Here is the medieval city of Assisi. It has preserved many monuments related to religion.
But the main attraction of the city is the Basilica of St. Francis, which became the eternal resting place of the country's patron saint. The city's cobbled roads will lead you to the magnificent cathedral, where you can admire the temple's exquisite architecture and interior decoration. Inside, the ceilings and walls are decorated with unique frescoes.
Near the Basilica there are medieval houses and even small shops that are also worth a look. Don't forget to visit the city center, where there is an ancient clock tower, the Basilica of St. Clare, the temple of Santa Maria Sopra Minevrai.
Albanian hills
If you are still interested in what to see in the vicinity of Rome, we recommend that you visit the “Roman Castles” (Albanian Hills). This is a stunningly beautiful area that unites several small towns and a natural park. Once upon a time, the ancient Roman nobility loved to visit this place. And today most Romans find him attractive.
The amazing beauty of volcanic lakes, stunning landscapes, the aromas of famous Italian wines and national cuisine - this is a true paradise for gourmets and lovers of outdoor recreation. Everything here is imbued with calm and tranquility.
Don't forget about the natural attractions of Italy in the vicinity of Rome. Therefore, we recommend that you go to the fabulous island of Capri. You can get here by boat from Naples, enjoying amazing scenery along the way.
The island has many interesting attractions, but if your time is limited and you cannot see them all, be sure to visit the Blue Grotto. This is an amazing cave with reflections of emerald and blue water.
Experienced travelers recommend visiting the highest point of the island - Mount Solaro. You can take a lift to its top. From the top there is a stunning view of the sea and the island. Tourists usually take great photos here.
Pompeii
Italians will call your trip to the capital in vain if you do not visit the famous city of Pompeii, located in the outskirts of Rome. The journey here will take no more than two hours. You will have a unique opportunity to wander the streets of the destroyed ancient Roman metropolis and see buildings and public places that were buried almost two thousand years ago.
The city's National Museum presents an exhibition of unique historical artifacts, as well as works of art discovered during the excavations of Pompeii.
Lake Martignano
Our review of attractions would be incomplete if we did not mention the lakes. There are several of them in the vicinity of Rome, and each is unique in its own way. And what landscapes there are here! For example, Martignano is a volcanic lake located just north of the city. After walking a short descent from the highway, you will find yourself on the shore, which is decorated with an English lawn, and you will see a reservoir of extraordinary beauty. Romans and city guests enjoy spending weekends here - you can swim in the lake and sunbathe on the shore. In addition, here you can listen to performances by local musicians.
Albano
Lake Albano in the vicinity of Rome is a favorite vacation spot for the townspeople. It is located very close to the capital and attracts vacationers with magnificent scenery. A lake formed in the crater of an extinct volcano. Its area is six kilometers, depth is about 170 meters. Interestingly, the water level in it is regulated by an ancient sewage tunnel, which was founded in 398 BC. Lake Albano and its neighboring Lake Nemi are separated by Mount Monte Cavo.
Bracciano: Orsini-Odescalchi Castle
Where to go in the vicinity of Rome for lovers of antiquity and ancient castles? Bracciano is a lake located in the town of the same name. It is the drinking reservoir of the Italian capital. This is one of the cleanest and second largest lakes in the province of Lazio.
On the banks of Bracciano stands the ancient castle of Orsini Odescalchi (13th century). It still belongs to the descendants of the aristocratic Odescalchi family. Previously, the castle belonged to another famous family - the Orsini. One of the representatives of the family has earned a very dubious reputation: according to rumors, Paolo Orsini settled the souls of his wives in the galleries of the ancestral castle.
The castle itself and its interior decoration are perfectly preserved: huge fireplaces, carved and forged beds with canopies, Renaissance-style furniture, portraits of beautiful ladies and a huge number of ancient frescoes. Ten years ago, the wedding ceremony of Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise was held at the castle. Never before have so many Hollywood stars been seen in a small town at the same time. Today, within the walls of the castle there is a museum in which there are several halls: the armory, the Etruscans, the sciences, the Caesars, etc. From the castle tower there is a stunning view of the mountains, lake and valleys.
Rest
It is unlikely that anyone plans a trip to Italy just for sightseeing in the vicinity of Rome. The sea here is warm and gentle, conducive to a comfortable beach holiday. If you want to relax and get some rest after sightseeing, then Positano is perfect for this.
This is a picturesque commune with numerous colorful houses, like something out of a fairy tale, and a beautiful pebble beach. To get here, you should take the train from Rome to Salerno, and from there take a ferry to your final destination.
In addition to a pleasant relaxation on a warm beach under the gentle rays of the Mediterranean sun, you can explore the mountains located here, where you will discover picturesque waterfalls and unusual plant species.
Lido di Ostia
The town of Ostia is a suburb of Rome, located 25 km from the capital. It is famous for its numerous beaches (both paid and public), all of them are well equipped. The beaches in the town are sandy, and the flat bottom of the Tyrrhenian Sea allows you to relax here with children.
A small seaside town with a population of 16 thousand is located on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is an hour away by train from Rome. The town is very calm and quiet, which is what attracts tourists and Romans here. Free beaches in the city center are often crowded. They are all very clean and well maintained.
On the coast, vacationers can visit numerous small cafes and restaurants, where you will be offered seafood treats and delicious dishes of national cuisine.
Anzio
Excellent beaches in the vicinity of Rome await holidaymakers in Anzio. The ancient city is much older than the Italian capital. Its founder, according to legend, is Antaeus, the son of the sorceress Circe and Odysseus.
Before joining the Roman lands, the city was a fortification of the Volscian tribe. Today you can relax here on beautiful beaches, the length of which exceeds 12 kilometers. Sailing enthusiasts and surfers prefer to relax in Anzio. In between beach holidays, you can visit the archaeological and military museums.
Nettuno
Anzio smoothly flows into another town - Nettuno. Romans love to relax on the beaches of this city, so it’s better to come here on weekdays. The water here is crystal clear, and the shore is covered with fine clean sand.
Sabaudia
The beaches of Sabaudia are located 95 km from Rome. They are part of the Odyssey Coast. All of them have been awarded the Blue Flag, but at the same time they are not as crowded as other beaches in Italy. The most popular of them are La Buffala Beach, Lido Azzuro Sabaudia, Duna 31.5.
Interestingly, Sabaudia is a city that was built in 200 days by order of Mussolini as an elite resort. This calm and quiet place is popular among Italian celebrities.
San Felice Circeo
Another city on the Riviera is Odyssey, located near Sabaudia. It is famous for its comfort and intimate atmosphere. Those who wish can have a great time on both paid and free beaches, although the latter are always crowded with vacationers.
The beaches are sandy, with a gently sloping bottom. Closer to the foot of the mountain, the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea are favored by snorkelers and divers. The city has many cafes and restaurants. The town is interesting for its location: it has two parts. One of them is located on the mountain, the other at its foot. As the ancient legend says, thousands of years ago the mountain on which the city was built was an island that Odysseus sailed past. Here he first met the beautiful Circe.
1 | Go to the sea“Every summer weekend we go to the seaside in Ostia,” says Lorenzo Ruggeri, journalist and blogger, with a smile. – From the center of Rome to the sea – about forty minutes by train. At Piramide station, without leaving the metro building, you need to go to Porta San Paolo, then get off at Lido Centro or at the terminus. The modern part of Ostia, however, is of no value. The main thing here is the beach. In the summer we come here to swim with a large group, and in the winter we come here to walk along the choppy sea.” 2 | Learn the history of the conclave“The origin of such an important institution for the Catholic Church as the conclave, the body that elects the Pope, is connected with Viterbo,” lawyer Mauro Porte adjusts his glasses. – This word comes from the Latin expression cum clave, that is, “under the key.” In 1268, the residents of the city simply locked the cardinals, who did not want to agree with each other, in one of the halls of the Papal Palace, so that they could finally decide on a candidate. Moreover, in order to achieve a solution to the issue, it was necessary to first put the cardinals on bread and water, and then completely dismantle part of the roof of the room where the meeting was held. After 1006 days, the pontiff was finally elected. However, there is already something to see in Viterbo. For example, the San Pellegrino quarter is one of the few examples of homogeneous buildings from the 12th–13th centuries. This is where those streets with ivy-covered houses and flower pots at the doors are located that you might have seen in travel magazines.” 3 | Feel like a hippie“This city was built on a mountain in the middle of a dense forest. At first I didn’t understand what was so special about Italy here,” says student Patricia Ravanelli. – And then I found out that Calcata is the Italian capital of hippies. In the 1930s, they wanted to resettle the city because they were afraid that the rock on which it was built would collapse. Fortunately, it never came to that. But in the 70s, representatives of bohemians, artists and writers came to the empty settlement, and not only from Italy. They managed to strengthen the base of the rock and revive the city. Now Kolkata, with its tiny art galleries, workshops, shops and tiny cafes, is somewhat reminiscent of Balinese Ubud. That’s why I like it here so much.” 4 | Hear the roar of the waterfall“Most travelers tend to associate Tivoli with Villa Ippolito d’Este. The park, a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance and a UNESCO monument, really deserves attention, you can’t argue with that,” bus driver Marco Mastroberardino turns down the radio. – Firstly, Tivoli itself is a beautiful, cozy medieval town. Secondly, in addition to Villa d’Este, there is also the amazing Villa Gregoriana with tunnels in the rocks, and most importantly, a large waterfall. This wild and almost deserted park is literally carved out of the rock. I love coming here with my wife in late autumn, when thick fog falls on the foliage of the spreading trees.” 5 | Drink a jug of Frascati“Unlike Rome, where the heat is unbearably hot in the summer, Frascati is fresh and cool at this time of year - all thanks to its special microclimate. I don’t understand why you even go to Rome in the summer? - Franco Agneloni, a trader in a wine shop, is indignant. – After all, in Frascati it’s no worse. Just look at Villa Mondragone and Villa Aldobrandini - works of Italian Baroque. But the main thing to do here is to drink frascati - this is the name of light white wine in pot-bellied bottles. I warn you, you shouldn’t expect any frills, Frascati is a simple wine, but it goes perfectly with artichokes, risotto and fish dishes. If you are interested in how frascati is made, you can go to the production site. For example, to the Fontana Candida winery. The main thing is to call in advance and arrange a visit.” 6 | Swim in the crater“Yes, indeed, on the site of Bracciano there used to be a volcanic crater,” guide Michele Sansovino points towards the lake. – This can be seen from its round shape. Now the town of Bracciano is a quiet resort where wealthy Romans come to sail in the summer. Water from the lake still supplies Rome through an aqueduct, so it can only be moved by sailing and rowing boats. So the water in Bracciano is very clean. The town itself is calm and quiet, and there is always a place on the beaches, even in high season. Lovers of romance should visit the Orsini-Odescalchi Castle, which has preserved the spirit of the Renaissance.” 7 | Walk among monsters“Bomarzo is known primarily for the Garden of Monsters, also known as the Sacred Forest. This park complex was built by order of the condottiere Vicino Orsini in memory of his deceased wife, says guide Francesca d’Agata. – Entrance costs €10, there is a nice bar and restaurant on site. The park itself consists of eerie sculptures that embody mainly mythological subjects. Among them, for example, is the huge head of Proteus, an elephant devouring a man, dragons, sphinxes with female heads and other evil spirits. By the way, Salvador Dali loved the park, and Michelangelo Antonioni made a documentary about it, “Villa of the Monsters.” 8 | Eat strawberries“If you ask any fruit shop in Rome where their strawberries come from, the answer will always be the same – from Nemi. In our city, strawberries ripen all year round,” says farmer Enzo Viterbese. – Every first Sunday in June we celebrate Sagra delle Fragole. The whole city is decorated with flowers, music plays from the windows, but most importantly, you can try hundreds of strawberry dishes and drinks. And in normal times, Nemi is a paradise for lovers of this berry. You can buy it literally on every corner. The peculiarity of our strawberries is a barely noticeable sourness, and the shape of the berry resembles a heart. My advice is to try La Rosa trattoria on the main street of the city. In addition to strawberry desserts, they serve amazing seasonal dishes such as truffle gnocchi and porcini mushroom pasta.” 9 | Improve your health“In the center of Ciociaria (that’s the name of a part of the province of Frosinone), famous for the film Ciociara, for which, by the way, Sophia Loren received an Oscar, the majestic Ernici mountain range rises,” says the director of the health complex, Professor Renato del Monaco. – At its foot is our town of Fiuggi. The main wealth of these places is the healing thermal springs, known since the Middle Ages. The main complex, the Baths of Boniface VIII (termedifiuggi.com), welcomes millions of tourists every year. At one time, Michelangelo, Pope Pius X, Giovanni Giolitti, Benedetto Croce, Maradona and many others came here to treat kidney stones and other diseases. And if the waters of Fiuggi don’t really interest you, then you can just walk in the fresh air, ride a bike and explore the neighboring towns.” 10 | Catch carp“Thanks to the crystal clear water, Lake Bolsena has received a second name – “a lake that you can drink,” says the head of the local administration, Fabiola Gallo, proudly. – This lake is one of the cleanest not only in Italy, but also in Europe. Here, of course, you can and even need to swim. A characteristic feature of Bolsena's beaches is black volcanic sand. In the southern part of the lake there are two islands - Bisentina and Martana. I highly recommend setting aside a day to sail them. And if you want to see the most romantic view of the lake, then you need to go to Montefiascone. The town itself is beautiful, and the panoramas that open from there are simply amazing. By the way, many fishing enthusiasts come to this place, including from Russia. Every two years we hold a fish festival - thousands of lovers of this gambling activity literally fill the lake. The main interest among fishermen is carp, which is simply incredible in size. But there are pike, black bass, and other fish.” 11 | Ride a horse“The Monte Rufeno Nature Reserve is a magical place,” guide Stefano Maraessa strokes the horse. – This is a protected area crossed by the Paglia River and several tributaries. Most of it is covered with dense picturesque forests. You need to be careful: there are wild boars and deer in the forest, which are best viewed from afar. Who knows what they have in mind... The reserve's trails have varying degrees of difficulty - you can choose the one that suits you. The routes are equipped with signs and plaques with information about the length of the path, level of difficulty and duration. There are special resting places where you can rest and water your horses. It is better to book a guided route in advance. The hike can last several hours or the whole day, depending on your strength and experience.” 12 | Try Pecorino Romano“Pecorino Romano has ancient origins,” Renato Illotto, president of the Pecorino Romano consortium, breaks off a head of cheese with a special knife. – According to legend, this cheese was given as rations to Roman soldiers - all thanks to its long shelf life and high nutritional value. Today our cheese is one of the main Italian DOP cheeses made from whole sheep's milk. A distinctive feature of Pecorino Romano is its rich taste, which it owes to the quality of milk and a moderate dose of salt. Pecorino goes well with Frascati wine, which is produced in the Castelli Romani region. This combination is a kind of gastronomic symbol of the Lazio region. If you want to see how pecorino is made, there is a famous Brunelli cheese factory in the suburbs of Rome. It’s best to arrange a visit by phone; emails are answered very slowly in Italy...” 13 | Relax like an aristocrat“If you want to understand what a holiday in the style of the Roman aristocracy is, you have a direct road to the beaches of the Riviera di Ulisse,” says notary Andrea Mantovani. “They are located next to the city of Latina, built out of the blue by order of Mussolini. If I am not confusing anything from the history course, then near the city of Gaeta Aeneas buried his nurse, and somewhere between Mount Circeo and the island of Ponza, Odysseus lived with the sorceress Circe for several years. Throughout the history of the Riviera, money has been found here: first due to the proximity of the Appian Way, and in our time - due to visiting moneybags from Rome who love to bask in the sun.” 14 | Become a movie hero“Yes, now the Cinecittà film studio is no longer the same as in the 60s,” lighting designer Paolo Gruzovin smokes thoughtfully. – But I remember how Antonioni, Visconti, Vittorio de Sica and Fellini shot their films here. In the 80s, the film studio had a hard time: there was no money, the films were very mediocre. Ten years later, Martin Scorsese and Mel Gibson filmed films here. Now everything is starting to come to life: the cinema museum is open, and groups of tourists are allowed onto film sets. The route passes through three zones: the scenery of old New York, ancient Rome and medieval Assisi. I've been working here all my life, but every time I'm amazed at the grandeur of these scenery! The main symbol of Cinecitta is Fellini and his beloved Pavilion No. 5. Now you can also visit it. Here the director made 23 films, five of which became Oscar-winning.” 15 | Get lost in the ruins“Imagine an entire Roman city, abandoned since Antiquity and excavated several centuries later,” guide Ivana Santangelo begins her story. – It is not as ancient as Pompeii, but the interesting thing is that ancient architects built it in the image and likeness of Rome. All this is Ostia - a city that defended the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea and served as a port at the mouth of the Tiber. Its history is closely connected with the history of Rome: visiting the excavations of Ancient Ostia is like traveling back in time. What else is needed to truly experience that great era?” 16 | Go surfing“I remember being told at school that the settlement of Civitavecchia was Etruscan a long time ago, and then it was conquered by the Romans,” surfer Francesco brushes wet hair from his forehead. – Now our city remains small, but very lively and cheerful. The waves here are not high, but quite long, which is actually rare for Italy. If you go towards Tarquinia, the water will be a little cleaner and the waves will be just as good. Don’t forget to take high-quality sunscreen with you, otherwise it won’t be a laughing matter later – you tan faster in water than on land.” 17 | Take your best photo“Civita di Bagnoregio is my favorite place to shoot,” photographer Andrea Caputo wipes his lens. – The city is located on the top of a hill, and if not for a long 300-meter bridge, getting into it would be very difficult. Actually, here you can practice photography: taking a great shot from the bridge overlooking the city will not be difficult even for a beginner. But then there are so many memories! The city itself has not changed its appearance since the 16th century. Almost no one lives here, and tourists don’t come here so often yet, which, in principle, is only for the better.” 18 | See the filming location of “The Great Beauty”“When we filmed the performance scene in Aqueduct Park, I was, of course, immediately struck by the scale and grandeur of these ancient structures,” says Anita Kravos about the process of working on the Oscar-winning film “The Great Beauty.” “I was told that there are six aqueducts here and, what’s most interesting, many of them are still functioning. I would love to come to the park just for a walk on a day off, since it’s very close to the city, and admission is free. It is easy to get here via the red metro line, direction Ananina. You can get off at any of the stations: Subaugusta, Giulio Agricola or Lucio Sestio, and then follow the signs. Or by car – there’s enough parking for everyone.” 19 | Visit the ancient fort“Believe it or not, I first noticed the strange hexagonal lake when I looked out the window of the plane while landing at Fiumicino airport,” recalls archaeologist Paolo Donadoni. “I was very little then and did not know that this was a port built during the time of Emperor Trajan. There were shipyards, storage facilities, and other port facilities of truly Roman scale. This port has been preserved almost better than all other similar structures. Now it is an archaeological park with many rare plants. An ideal place for walks and original photos! The port has an excellent website where all the necessary information is collected, where you can also book an excursion with a qualified guide. Perhaps it will be me..." 20 | Take a walk around the Pope's dacha“Castel Gandolfo is the summer residence of the Pope,” says a Swiss guard guarding the entrance to one of the papal institutions with an important look. – Until recently, tourists were not allowed into it, but the new owner, Pope Benedict XVI, ordered the residence to be opened for local residents and tourists. Seeing dad is not so easy - even in retirement he is a busy man. But it’s worth coming here if only to just stroll around this quiet and lovely city. And what trattorias and wine bars there are here! In general, I enjoy working in Castel Gandolfo, perhaps even more than at the Vatican gates.”