17 Day Trips from Rome
Rome is known for its historical monuments, colourful culture and delectable cuisine. There’s plenty to pack into your itinerary, but if you tire of Italy’s capital, escape on one of these day trips from Rome.
Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, thanks to its endless slew of sightseeing, culinary and cultural experiences. From the Trevi Fountain to the Colosseum, every inch of this city is bursting with things to do.
Activities and attractions in Rome certainly come in no shortage, making it a top-tier location for all types of travellers.
Pack your appetite for carbonara pasta and gelato, because your holiday in Rome is about to be unforgettable. Find out everything you need to know in this guide on How to Plan a Trip to Rome.
If you need a break from the bustling streets, discover these day trips from Rome. Whether you want to explore enchanting villages, architectural gems or vibrant seaside towns, you won’t be disappointed.
Sip Aperol Spritz on the Amalfi Coast, see the countryside in Siena and indulge in the birthplace of pizza, Naples.
No matter your preferences for food, adventure or avid sightseeing, we’ve got it all covered in this guide. Andiamo ragazzi!
Best Day Trips from Rome
This incredible city is filled with history, culture and delicious cuisine.
Pack your itinerary with bucket list attractions and the best gelato in Rome and explore beyond the capital. Surrounded by bucolic villages, ancient ruins, medieval towns and pristine beaches, finding the right fit for you is easy.
Take your Rome trip to the next level with this 7-day Italy Itinerary. We cover top travel destinations like Rome and Milan while leaving time for day trips to hot spots like the Amalfi Coast. With the best time to visit, how to get around, top activities and accommodations, you won’t have to worry about organising a thing.
Rome is my favourite city in the world. The capital city was one of the first places I visited in Italy, and I instantly fell head over heels. The sights, sounds, smells. Uh, every experience made me feel like I was in a movie. And after 7 years of living in Barcelona, I still find myself daydreaming of Italy.
Lazio and the surrounding regions are carved with culture and vibrant escapes, and we cover everything you need to know in this guide to 17 of the best day trips from Rome.
Here’s a summary of the top Rome day trips:
Naples
Sperlonga
Siena
Assisi
Orvieto
Civita di Bagnoregio
Castel Gandolfo
Tuscany
Capri
Etruscan City of the Dead in Cerveteri
Florence
Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius
Appian Way
Ostia Antica
Amalfi Coast
Tivoli
Bracciano
17. Naples
Naples is a lively city that’s rich in history, art and culinary delights, making it the perfect day trip from Rome by train.
Explore the UNESCO-listed historic centre and make your way through the narrow streets. See striking churches like Gesù Nuovo, and embark on an underground tour of Napoli Sotterranea.
Visit the National Archaeological Museum, which boasts one of the world’s most impressive collections of Greco-Roman artefacts, as well as ruins from Pompeii and Herculaneum. If there’s one thing you can’t leave without, it’s a taste of authentic Neapolitan pizza. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, so be sure to pack your appetite.
Want to stay a little longer? Check out this guide on the Best Day Trips from Naples.
How to get to Naples from Rome:
Bus: Buses depart from Rome Tiburtina Bus Station to Naples Metropark Central in around 2.5 to 3 hours. FlixBus and Itabus run regularly and are a great budget alternative.
Train: The high-speed train from Rome to Naples (Frecciarossa or Italo) takes just over 1 hour and 10 minutes. The train departs from Roma Termini and arrives in Napoli Centrale, and there are also slower regional trains available.
Car: Drive to Naples via the A1 Autostrada del Sole in around 2 hours (with tolls). This is a scenic drive, so be sure to squeeze in a stop at places like Monte Cassino or Caserta Palace.
16. Sperlonga
Sperlonga is a scenic seaside town that’s known for its whitewashed homes, cobbled streets and beautiful beaches. This is a relaxing coastal escape that’s located about halfway between Rome and Naples.
Spice up your stay in Rome with a combination of Blue Flag beaches and historical sites. Visit the Villa of Tiberius and don’t miss its enchanting Grotto of Tiberius, which features ancient Roman sculptures.
Sip espresso on the beachside promenade before spending the day in the crystal-clear waters. With a laid-back atmosphere, Sperlonga is one of the most peaceful day trips from Rome.
How to get to Sperlonga from Rome:
Bus: There’s no direct bus from Rome to Sperlonga, but you can take a bus from Rome’s Laurentina Station to Fondi (approx. 2 hours). From there, you can hop on a local bus to Sperlonga and arrive in 15–20 minutes.
Train: Board a regional train (Regionale) from Roma Termini to Fondi-Sperlonga station. The journey takes around 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on the day and time. From Fondi-Sperlonga station, catch a CO.TRAL bus or a taxi to Sperlonga and arrive in approximately 15 minutes.
Car: Drive on the A1/E45 highway and SS7 Appia and arrive in around 2 hours. Parking is available near the beach and the town centre, but it can fill up quickly in summer. Arrive early to avoid the congestion.
15. Siena
Siena is tucked in the beating heart of Tuscany. Replete with countryside charm, it’s famous for its medieval architecture and rich history.
Siena is one of the best day trips from Rome, especially if you’re interested in culture and history.
Step inside the striking Piazza del Campo, where the well-known Palio horse race takes place. Don’t miss the chance to see the intricate black-and-white marble façade at the Siena Cathedral (Duomo).
Meander the narrow streets, get a feel for the rich history and enjoy scenic hilltop views from Torre del Mangia.
How to get to Siena from Rome:
Bus: Catch a bus from Rome Tiburtina Bus Station to Siena Piazza Gramsci in approximately 2 hours 45 minutes. FlixBus and Tiemme offer direct services, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
Train: Boarding a train from Roma Termini to Siena requires a transfer at Chiusi-Chianciano Terme. The total journey time takes around 3 to 3.5 hours and from the Siena train station, it’s just a 20-minute walk or short bus ride.
Car: The scenic drive via A1/E35 and SR2 takes you through the Tuscan countryside and is about 2.5 hours.
14. Assisi
Assisi is a peaceful escape that’s celebrated as the birthplace of St. Francis.
Home to the Basilica of St. Francis and Giotto’s frescoes, this Rome day trip is best for spiritual seekers and avid artists. Assisi is the perfect addition to your holiday in Rome if you’re interested in a tranquil adventure.
Wander the town’s medieval streets, peer up at the stone houses and bask in the panoramic views of Umbria’s countryside. Assisi is rich in spiritual significance and artistic heritage. Explore the Rocca Maggiore Fortress for unparalleled scenery and hike up to the Eremo delle Carceri.
How to get to Assisi from Rome:
Bus: Catch a bus from Rome Tiburtina Bus Station to Assisi Piazza San Pietro in around 3 hours.
Train: Trains from Roma Termini to Assisi take 2 to 2.5 hours, usually with a change at Foligno. The Assisi train station is in Santa Maria degli Angeli, with local buses running to the city centre.
Car: Drive on the A1 and SS75 and arrive in about 2.5 hours. Parking is available near the historic centre, which is best explored on foot.
13. Orvieto
Perched on a dramatic volcanic clifftop, every corner of Orvieto boasts breathtaking views. If you’re a wine lover or photographer, don’t miss this epic location.
Brimming with history, culture and architectural delights, this destination is coined as one of the top day trips from Rome by train. Visit the Duomo di Orvieto, famous for its detailed Gothic façade, before heading to the city’s underground tunnels.
Marvel at the remarkable Pozzo di San Patrizio, a 16th-century double-helix well. Spend your day winding through the cobblestone streets and giving your credit card a workout in the artisanal shops. Sample Umbrian delicacies in the cafe scene, and pair it all with a glass of Orvieto Classico wine.
How to get to Orvieto from Rome:
Bus: Buses run from Rome Tiburtina Bus Station to Orvieto Piazza Cahen in about 2 hours.
Train: Trains from Roma Termini to Orvieto take around 1 to 1.5 hours, with frequent daily departures. A funicular from the Orvieto train station takes you to the historic centre in minutes.
Car: The drive via the A1 Autostrada del Sole takes around 1.5 hours. There’s convenient parking near the funicular so that you can enjoy easy access to the old town.
12. Civita di Bagnoregio
Amp up your stay in Rome with a trip to Civita di Bagnoregio, also known as the ‘Dying Town’.
This isolated hilltop village is connected by a picturesque pedestrian bridge. The car-free streets are lined with stone houses and sweeping panoramas of the Valle dei Calanchi.
As you walk across the dramatic footbridge, you’ll be immersed in the fairytale-like ambience. Roam the charming alleyways and relish local cuisine in relaxed trattorias.
Bagnoregio’s isolation and lack of crowds make it one of the most unique day trips from Rome.
How to get to Civita di Bagnoregio from Rome:
Bus: Take a Cotral bus from Rome Saxa Rubra Station to Bagnoregio via Viterbo, taking around 3 hours. From Bagnoregio, it’s a 20-minute walk across the pedestrian bridge to Civita.
Train: Trains run from Roma Termini to Orvieto (1 to 1.5 hours), then a bus to Bagnoregio (40 minutes). A short walk from Bagnoregio leads you to Civita di Bagnoregio.
Car: Driving via the A1 Autostrada del Sole and SS71 takes about 2 hours. Parking is available outside Bagnoregio, with pedestrian access to Civita only.
11. Castel Gandolfo
This one-of-a-kind destination sits just 25 kilometres southeast of Rome.
Castel Gandolfo is perched above Lake Albano, a famous summer residence of the Popes. This Rome day trip is illustrated by scenic landscapes, ancient history and a peaceful atmosphere.
Visit the Apostolic Palace and admire its meticulously landscaped Barberini Gardens, which are now finally open to the public. This lakeside setting is perfect for leisurely strolls and panoramic dining. If you’re interested in a historical yet relaxing getaway close to Rome, you can’t go wrong with Castel Gandolfo.
How to get to Castel Gandolfo from Rome:
Bus: Take a Cotral bus from Rome Anagnina Station to Castel Gandolfo, which takes around 40 minutes. Buses run regularly, offering scenic views of the Alban Hills along the way.
Train: Trains depart from Roma Termini to Castel Gandolfo station in about 40 minutes. The station is a short uphill walk to the town centre and Apostolic Palace.
Car: Driving via the Via Appia Nuova (SS7) takes around 40 minutes. Parking is available near the town centre, with stunning views over Lake Albano.
10. Tuscany
Tuscany is carved with rolling hilltops, verdant vineyards and charming medieval towns.
Amp up the action on your Rome trip with some time under the Tuscan sun. Indulge in a wine-tasting experience in the Chianti region and discover San Gimignano’s soaring towers.
Kick back and relax in the thermal baths at Saturnia. The thermal waters at Saturnia are called ‘Cascate di Mulino’ and are completely free. Located just 6 km outside of Saturnia, they are just a stone’s throw from the Terme di Saturnia Resort.
Tuscany is rich in cultural and culinary delights, as well as a range of relaxing experiences. This day trip from Rome by train is worth adding to your bucket list!
How to get to Tuscany from Rome:
Bus: Take a bus from Rome Tiburtina Station to Florence and arrive within 3 to 4 hours. Buses are a cost-effective way to visit Tuscany, thanks to the scenic views along the way.
Train: High-speed trains like Frecciarossa or Italo run from Roma Termini to Florence in 1.5 hours. Trains to other Tuscan towns like Siena or Pisa take around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the route.
Car: Driving via the A1 Autostrada del Sole takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to reach destinations like Florence. Renting a car gives you the freedom to see Tuscany’s countryside at your own pace.
9. Capri
Capri Island is famed for its glitz and glamour. Fill your day trip from Rome with natural beauty, luxury shopping and the iconic Blue Grotto.
The ultimate Rome vacation includes some time in the sun, and there’s no better place to do that than in Capri. This island is well-known for its elegant boutique shops and megayachts, but the town also hosts a number of artistic and cultural gems. Dive deep into the island's long and rich history in its museums and monuments, including Villa San Michele and the Casa Rossa.
Take a boat tour around Capri, meander through the Gardens of Augustus and hop on the chairlift to Monte Solaro for the best views.
How to get to Capri from Rome:
Bus: Take a MarinoBus from Rome Tiburtina Station to Naples (about 2.5 to 3 hours), then transfer to the Sorrento bus for another 1 hour. From Sorrento, take a ferry to Capri and arrive in around 20-25 minutes.
Train: Take a high-speed train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale (about 1 hour 10 minutes), then transfer to a Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento (about 1 hour). From Sorrento, take a ferry to Capri.
Car: Driving via A1 Autostrada takes around 2 hours, then you’ll need to park in Sorrento. Then, take a ferry to Capri and arrive in 20-25 minutes.
8. Etruscan City of the Dead in Cerveteri
The fascinating Etruscan City of the Dead in Cerveteri is situated 44 kilometres from Rome.
This Rome day trip is as eerie as it gets, inviting you to explore the mysteries of the Etruscan civilization. Cerveteri is known for its impressive Banditaccia Necropolis, where you can walk among ancient tombs and rock-carved burial chambers.
These tombs date back to the 9th century BC and feature detailed inscriptions and artwork. The site’s surroundings and archaeological significance make it a must-visit for history lovers. If you want a glimpse at Italy’s pre-Roman heritage, this is one of the most unusual day trips from Rome.
How to get to Cerveteri from Rome:
Bus: Take a bus from Rome Saxa Rubra Station to Cerveteri. The total journey time takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Train: Take a train from Roma Termini to Cerveteri-Ladispoli and arrive in approximately 40 minutes. From the station, embark on a short bus ride or walk to the town centre.
Car: The drive via the A12 highway takes around 45 minutes. Parking is available near the Etruscan Necropolis, making it easy to explore the site on your day trip.
7. Florence
The birthplace of the Renaissance offers a dazzling diversity of experiences. Its world-famous art and jaw-dropping architecture make for an unforgettable experience.
If you want to see Florence from Rome on a day trip, it’s best to leave as early as possible. This stunning city is located 275 kilometres north of Rome and can be easily reached by train.
This colourful city has a lot of things to see, from Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery to Botticelli’s masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery.
Walk across the Ponte Vecchio, admire the iconic Duomo and soak up the vibe in the piazzas (squares).
When you’re all done admiring world-class art and architecture, indulge your tastebuds in a local trattoria.
Florence’s buzzing street life and artistic finds make it a cultural hot spot. The mix of history, art, and architecture makes it one of the top day trips from Rome to Florence.
How to get to Florence from Rome:
Bus: Take a bus from Rome Tiburtina Station to Florence Santa Maria Novella. The total journey time takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. Buses are a budget-friendly option, especially if you’re a backpacker.
Train: High-speed trains like Frecciarossa or Italo depart from Roma Termini to Florence Santa Maria Novella. You can arrive in about 1.5 hours. Trains run frequently throughout the day, making it an easy and quick mode of transport.
Car: The drive via the A1 Autostrada del Sole takes about 3 hours. You’ll have the flexibility to stop as many times as you want and enjoy the scenic roads through Tuscany.
6. Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius
Pompeii is located 241 kilometres south of Rome and is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
The ancient city of Pompeii was buried by the eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79 AD. This ancient UNESCO-listed site promises a captivating journey through local Roman life.
Walk down well-preserved streets, admire the grand villas and marvel at centuries-old frescoes. Hike to the top of Mt Vesuvius for panoramic vistas over the Bay of Naples, and don’t forget to peer down at the volcanic crater.
A day trip from Rome to Pompeii boasts ancient ruins, hiking trails and all-round adventure. If you’ve got extra time, visit the nearby town of Herculaneum, which is another ancient city.
I wouldn’t recommend doing this day trip during the summer months, as it can get a bit overwhelming due to the heat. Summer is Italy’s peak tourist season, so you can expect to battle it out with big crowds if you choose to visit during this time.
How to get to Pompeii from Rome:
Bus: Take a bus from Rome Tiburtina Station to Pompeii. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours via a direct route.
Train: Take a high-speed train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale (about 1 hour 10 minutes), then transfer to the Circumvesuviana train to Pompei Scavi (about 30 minutes). The Pompei Scavi station is right next to the entrance of the ruins, so you won’t have to walk far when you arrive.
Car: The drive via A1 Autostrada and A3 takes about 2.5 hours. Parking is available nearby, but be sure to arrive early to secure your spot.
5. Appian Way
Not all roads lead to Rome… but this one does. The Appian Way is one of Rome’s oldest roads and is framed by ancient ruins, aqueducts and towering pine trees.
Get active on your holiday in Rome on the Via Appia, which is just 10 kilometres from the city centre. The best way to see this gem is to cycle or walk. Along the way, you’ll pass historic landmarks like the Catacombs of San Sebastiano and the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella.
The serene countryside serves as a tranquil break from Rome’s busy streets. This route is best suited to history aficionados and nature seekers alike.
How to get to the Appian Way from Rome:
Bus: Take the bus 118 from Rome Colosseo Station to Appia Antica (about 20 minutes). The bus will take you directly to the entrance of the Appian Way Regional Park.
Train: Take a train from Roma Termini to Roma Appia (about 15 minutes). From there, it’s a short walk or bus ride to the Appian Way.
Car: Driving via Via Appia Nuova takes about 20 minutes. There are several parking areas along the Appian Way, giving you easy access to explore.
4. Ostia Antica
This ancient Roman port city is woven with well-preserved ruins, but, without the crowds of Pompeii. Ostia Antica is coined as Rome’s forgotten Pompeii, and it’s just 30 minutes by train.
Once Ancient Rome’s main port, this archaeological site features age-old streets, houses and baths. Explore the ancient theatre and baths, roam through the well-preserved Roman streets and don’t miss the Forum and Capitolium.
This day trip from Rome is significantly less crowded than Pompeii. Offering a quieter (but still impressive) glimpse into Italy’s past, Ostia Antica is best suited to history enthusiasts and archaeology lovers.
How to get to Ostia Antica from Rome:
Bus: Take Bus 06 from Piramide Metro Station to Ostia Antica. The journey time is about 30 minutes.
Train: Take a Regional train (Line Roma-Lido) from Roma Porta San Paolo to Ostia Antica Station (about 30 minutes). The train station is situated just a short walk from the entrance to the ruins.
Car: The drive via Via Ostiense takes about 30 minutes.
3. Amalfi Coast
There’s no better way to spice up your stay in Rome… The Amalfi Coast is framed by dramatic clifftops, colourful villages and crystal-clear waters.
A day trip from Rome to the Amalfi Coast promises coastal views, fresh seafood and pebbly beaches. Lounge around on a sunbed, stroll through the steep streets and soak up the Mediterranean charm.
Don’t miss this guide on the Best Things to do in Amalfi Coast. This picture-perfect escape is located roughly 273 kilometres south of Rome, and it’s easy to get here without a car.
Situated in the Campania region of Southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast extends from the Sorrentine Peninsula to the town of Vietri sul Mare.
There are 13 towns on the Amalfi Coast, including Amalfi, Atrani, Cetara, Conca de' Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Scala, Tramonti and my personal favourite, Vietri sul Mare.
The landscape is lapped by limestone cliffs, a cove-carved coastline and a slew of cliff-hugging villages. A Rome day trip to the Amalfi Coast is well worth adding to your bucket list.
Want to stay a little longer? Make the most of the region with this 5-day Amalfi Coast Itinerary.
How to get to Amalfi Coast from Rome:
Bus: Take a MarinoBus from Rome Tiburtina Station to Amalfi. The total journey time is about 4 to 5 hours, so it’s only worth doing if you leave very early in the morning.
Train: Take a high-speed train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale (about 1 hour and 10 minutes). From here, you can transfer to the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento and arrive in 1 hour. From Sorrento, take a bus or ferry to various towns along the Amalfi Coast.
Car: You can travel from Rome to the Amalfi Coast via the A1 and A3 and arrive in 3.5 to 4 hours. Be prepared for narrow, winding coastal roads - this drive is not for the faint-hearted.
2. Tivoli
Tivoli is teeming with villas and waterfalls, as well as two UNESCO-listed sites. This Rome day trip looks like it’s been ripped straight out of a fairytale book.
Tivoli is home to grand villas, Villa d’Este, which is full of fountains and gardens, and Villa Adriana, an ancient Roman complex. The serene surroundings and striking architecture offer a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Rome.
Located 29 kilometres east of the capital city, Tivoli plays a key role in the Lazio region. Hidden deep in the green mountains of the Monti Tiburtini, manicured gardens, Renaissance art and awe-inspiring architecture await.
Don’t miss a chance to marvel at the natural gorges and waterfalls at Villa Gregoriana. Tivoli’s haul of history, art and nature makes it a relaxing day trip for both nature lovers and history buffs alike.
How to get to Tivoli from Rome:
Bus: Take a Cotral bus from Rome Ponte Mammolo Station to Tivoli. The total journey time is roughly 1 hour.
Train: Take a train from Roma Termini to Tivoli and arrive in 1 hour and 10 minutes. The Tivoli train station is about a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride to the city centre.
Car: The drive via A24 takes approximately 40 minutes.
1. Bracciano
Bracciano is located 47 kilometres from Rome and is steeped deep in history. If you’re interested in doing outdoor activities, this is one of the best places to visit on your Rome trip.
Overlooking Lake Bracciano, this town is well-known for the impressive Castello Orsini-Odescalchi. This is a well-preserved medieval castle with enchanting views.
During the warmer months, dive into the lake for swimming and sailing, or stay lakeside for a divine dining experience. Bracciano’s character-packed streets and laid-back atmosphere pose the perfect break. The combination of history, nature and tranquillity makes it one of the best day trips from Rome.
How to get to Bracciano from Rome:
Bus: Buses depart from Saxa Rubra Bus Station to Bracciano town centre. The total journey is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
Train: Trains leave from Roma Ostiense, Roma Trastevere, or Roma San Pietro stations and go to Bracciano Train Station. The journey is roughly 50–60 minutes.
Car: You can arrive in Bracciano via the Via Cassia (SR2) or A12 highway in around 45–60 minutes.
Best Time to Visit Rome
Now that you’re all caught up on the best day trips from Rome, let’s get into the logistics.
The best time to visit Rome depends on your preferences, travel budget and style. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:
Spring
From March to May, you can enjoy a mild climate with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. During the spring season, Rome’s parks and gardens are blooming, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
There are fewer tourists compared to the summer, meaning that attractions are less crowded. This is the best time for culture enthusiasts, families and couples who are looking to enjoy the attractions with the big crowds.
Events in Rome:
Easter (April): Don’t miss the Vatican City’s mass and processions, like the Papal Easter Mass.
Festa della Primavera: This spring festival in Rome is packed with cultural events and open-air concerts.
Rome Film Fest (June): This celebrates international cinema in various venues.
Summer
From June to August, you can expect high temperatures reaching 30°C to 40°C. Most locals go on holiday, so a lot of smaller shops and restaurants might close. Popular attractions are very busy during the summer, so expect long queues and big crowds. This is the best time for those who enjoy summer festivals, vibrant nightlife and beaches.
Events in Rome:
Estate Romana (Roman Summer): Outdoor concerts, theatre performances and film screenings.
Festa della Repubblica (Republic Day, June 2): Parades and festivals celebrating Italy's founding as a republic.
Rock in Roma (June to July): Live music concerts with international artists.
Autumn
From September to November, you can expect mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is the perfect time for sightseeing, as the fall foliage lights up parks like Villa Borghese. Compared to the summer there are fewer tourists, making it ideal for those wanting to explore without the summer rush. This is the best time to visit Rome if you’re a foodie, thanks to the harvest festivals and fresh produce.
Events in Rome:
Rome Film Fest (October): This international film festival showcases films from all over the globe.
Festa della Salute (November): This traditional festival is held in the Trastevere neighbourhood.
Roma Jazz Festival (November): International jazz concerts take place in various venues all around the city.
Winter
From December to February, you can expect cold temperatures averaging 5°C to 15°C and it can feel chilly, especially in the evenings. The capital city is much quieter, making it a tranquil time to explore the sights. Some attractions have shorter hours, but the festive lights and decorations make it a magical experience. Winter is ideal for those who enjoy Christmas markets and cultural festivities without the high season rush.
Events in Rome:
Christmas in Rome (December): The city is fringed by Christmas markets, special events and nativity scenes, especially around the Vatican City.
New Year’s Eve (December 31): See the fireworks and celebrations in Piazza del Popolo and Piazza Venezia.
Epiphany (January 6): The Befana parade offers festivities and performances around the city.
Things to do in Rome
Spice up your Italy itinerary with the slew of sightseeing experiences in Rome.
Whether you want to make pasta in a local’s home, sip Prosecco overlooking the Colosseum or toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, there’s plenty to pack into your trip.
Enjoy a mix of attractions, activities and day trips from Rome, Italy, with these top-rated activities:
Visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Wander around on a Colosseum tour and Gladiator Arena
Go beyond the capital on this Villa D'Este and Hadrian's Villa Tivoli Day Tour
Marvel at the Borghese Gallery & Gardens
Escape the city buzz on a Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius day trip
Dive deep into the history on a Crypts and Catacombs tour
How to Get Around Rome
Easily reach the best day trips from Rome with this guide on how to get around. Whether you prefer a long-distance train ride or the comfort of a rental car, we cover everything you need to know about travelling around the Italian capital.
Public Transport in Rome is affordable and runs frequently, and you don’t need to spend a lot to get around. Here’s everything you need to know about the metro, train and bus network, as well as car/motorbike rental and the Rome City Pass.
Metro
Rome has an extensive underground metro system (Metro di Roma) that offers convenience. There are three metro lines: Line A (red), Line B (blue) and Line C (green) and metro stations are dotted across the city. If you’re a budget traveller, the metro is a cost-effective mode of transport. You can combine the metro and regional trains to reach destinations like Ostia Antica and Tivoli.
Bus
Rome is home to an expansive bus network that spreads across the entire city. The main bus terminal in Rome is located at Termini Station, and you can buy tickets from tobacco shops, newsstands and vending machines before you get on the bus. You can reach day trip destinations like Tivoli, Frascati and Castel Gandolfo.
Train
When you visit Rome, you can make your way to major cities via the train network. Board a train from one of the main stations like Termini or Tiburtina. The best day trips from Rome by train are Florence, Naples, Amalfi Coast and Cerveteri.
Car, Motorbike or Scooter Rental
Renting a car, motorbike or scooter in Rome for flexibility and the freedom to travel at your own pace. Rome has heavy traffic congestion during peak hours, so plan your travels outside of these times to avoid frustration. Be mindful of the ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) zones, which are restricted traffic areas monitored by cameras.
Rome City Pass
If you want to know how to plan a trip to Rome for the first time, save money with the Rome City Pass. This budget alternative offers unlimited public transportation and discounted entry to popular tourist attractions.
Where to Stay in Rome
Your stay in Rome promises plenty of fun, food and fascinating history.
Embarking on the best day trips from Rome is easy when you have a base, and there’s lots of accommodation to choose from.
Top Hotels in Rome, Italy
Budget Accommodation (€): Hotel Bright
Mid-Range Accommodation (€€): Sentho Roma
Luxury Accommodation (€€€): Hotel Vilón
Best Neighbourhoods in Rome
The best area to stay in Rome depends on your interests and budget. From the history-drenched Centro Storico to the bohemian Monti, here are some of the most popular districts in Rome.
Historic Centre (Centro Storico)
Rome’s historic centre is an obvious pick for first-time visitors. You’ll be a stone’s throw away from major attractions like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon and Piazza Navona. In the Centro Storico, there’s a diverse range of hotels, guesthouses and vacation rentals.
Vatican City (Prati)
The Vatican City has a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels with St. Peter’s Basilica views to mid-range hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals. This is ideal for those wanting proximity to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Square. The neighbourhood boasts lots of local dining options and easy transport connections via Ottaviano and Cipro Metro stations.
Testaccio
Testaccio boasts a top-quality coffee scene, budget-friendly restaurants and lively nightlife, making it one of the best places to stay in Rome. Plus, it’s just two metro stops from the Colosseum! The accommodation in Testaccio varies from mid-range hotels to stylish boutique options.
Monti
With a central location and bohemian vibe, Monti is one of the best areas to stay in Rome. This neighbourhood is close to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Piazza Venezia and it has trendy boutiques, wine bars and an authentic feel. If you want to book accommodation, you can find a mix of luxury, boutique and mid-range hotels.
Trastevere
Trastevere has a mix of boutique hotels, cozy B&Bs, stylish apartments and guesthouses. This is perfect for experiencing Rome’s cobblestone streets, ivy-draped buildings and vibrant piazzas. Travestere is ideal for those seeking a lively atmosphere and easy access to the Vatican City.
FAQs
What is the best day trip to do from Rome?
The best day trip depends on your personal preferences and travel budget. The most popular Rome day trips are destinations like Pompeii, Florence, Naples and the Amalfi Coast.
What cities can I visit from Rome?
Lazio and the surrounding regions are made up of seaside towns, rural villages and ancient ruins. Board a high-speed train to places like Tuscany, or hire a car and visit more rural areas like Siena.
What is the best city to combine with Rome?
The Amalfi Coast is ideal for a summer getaway, Naples is charming in the fall and Tuscany is ideal for a spring holiday. The best areas to visit depend on your budget and what type of trip you want to have.
What is the prettiest part of Rome?
The most beautiful places in Rome come in no shortage. Piazza Navona, The Vatican City and Villa Borghese are on practically every traveller’s bucket list. But places like the catacombs of Rome and Castel Sant'Angelo are arguably just as picturesque.
Why Should You Take a Day Trip from Rome?
Sightseeing in Rome poses plenty of opportunities for culture vultures, history buffs and foodies alike. From the Trevi Fountain to Villa Borghese, your itinerary promises a slew of action-packed experiences.
If you tire of Italy’s capital, discover the charming countryside, age-old ruins and serene coastal towns. Indulge your senses in popular places like Amalfi Coast and Naples, or get off the beaten track to destinations like Bracciano and Tivoli.
Before you jet-set off on your Italy vacation, save this guide on the top day trips from Rome!