The Eternal City of Rome is filled with immense beauty and history and this makes it definitely worth a visit, but why stop at that when the city of Rome is also surrounded by more magnificent landscapes and monuments?
It can sometimes be hard to lay down a list of things to see for a day trip from Rome but, if that’s the case for you, fear not! We’re here to help with our list of the best day trips from Rome!
Tivoli – a mountain town with a rich history and nature
Located just outside of Rome, circa 34 kilometers from the city, Tivoli is a mountain town surrounded by nature and great historical sites.
One of the most interesting aspects of the city of Tivoli is its three Villas, among which two were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage:
- VILLA ADRIANA: Located on the Tiburtine Hills, this Villa is the most ancient out of the three as it was first built in the 2nd century. It was commissioned by Emperor Hadrian who wanted to make it his residence and it was, in fact, built according to his taste. It’s a combination of the things he loved most from his travels, mainly in Greece and Egypt and it’s filled with fountains, gardens and theaters that extend for over 300 acres. It’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999;
- VILLA D’ESTE: Designed by architect Pirro Ligorio and commissioned by Cardinal Ippolito II, the former governor of Tivoli, Villa D’Este is a Renaissance Villa filled with popular fountains, like the Rometta, Fontana dell’Organo, Fontana degli Uccelli, Fontana del Bicchierone, Fontana di Nettuno. Inside Villa D’Este, you will also be able to find Palazzo D’Este, a residential palace. It’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site;
- VILLA GREGORIANA: Commissioned by Pope Gregory XVI, Villa Gregoriana is a natural park filled with trees, waterfalls and fountains;
Ostia Antica – ancient Rome’s naval base and port
Not far from Rome, you will be able to find Ostia Antica, ancient Rome’s naval base and port, founded in the fourth century BC.
Ostia Antica is filled with history, with its intricate mosaic floors and Baths. Here are some things you can’t miss out on seeing in Ostia:
- BATHS OF NEPTUNE: A core element of Ancient Rome’s culture, the Baths of Neptune are sea-themed thermal baths filled with beautiful mosaic floors. These baths served as a way to gather socially but also for Romans’ personal hygiene.
CAPITOLIUM AND FORUM: a religious center and the only building located in Ostia Antica that remained elevated throughout the Middle Ages;
- BAKERY;
- THE TOMBS;
- PORTICUS DELLA FONTANA A LUCERNA;
Castel Gandolfo – the summer residence of the Pope
Located near the city of Rome, Castel Gandolfo is the summer residence of the Pope and a great place for a day trip based on exploring through art, food and nature. Here’s a list of some things to see in Castel Gandolfo:
- LAKE ALBANO: a 168 meters volcanic lake;
- PALAZZO PONTIFICIO: the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo, commonly
known as the Papal Palace is the Summer residence of the Pope;
Castel Gandolfo is also filled with many great restaurants and popular wine tastings in the Castelli Romani area. Make sure to try one!
Conclusion
Taking a day trip from Rome is always a fun experience. Escaping the frenzy of the city and the busy crowds will make for a relaxing day amongst great historical beauty. If you want to get to know more about Rome and Italy, check out our other blogs.
