17 Best Day Tours to Take From Rome
Last Updated: Jun 26, 2023
Reading Time: 11 minutes
By: Shaun
Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. But if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get a more local experience, there are plenty of amazing day trips to take you outside of Rome and explore the charming towns, stunning countryside, and gorgeous coastline that Italy has to offer.
If you are looking to take a break from all the monuments and museums that Rome has to offer, why not take a day trip and see what else Italy has to offer?
What are the best day tours to take from Rome?
Rome’s central location on the Italian peninsula is well connected, making it very easy to travel in any direction experience someplace new, and be back in Rome in time for dinner.
From mediaeval hilltop villages to ancient Roman ruins, from wine tastings to beachside bliss, here are some of the best day tours that take you outside of Rome.
1. Tivoli: Villa D’Este and Hadrian’s Villa
Villa D'Este | Image by Waldo Miguez from Pixabay
If you only have one day to venture outside of Rome, then the obvious choice is the picturesque town of Tivoli. The town is just 30 kilometres from Rome and famous for its two stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Villa D’Este and Hadrian’s Villa.
Villa D’Este, built in the 16th century, boasts some of the most beautiful gardens in Italy, with hundreds of fountains, waterfalls, and sculptures set in a lush green landscape.
Hadrian’s Villa, once the extravagant retreat of the Roman emperor Hadrian, is now a sprawling archaeological site with the ruins of temples, theatres, and thermal baths.
2. Ostia Antica and the Roman Coast
Ostia Antica | Image by neufal54 from Pixabay
If you’re looking for a day trip that combines ancient history with seaside charm, a visit to Ostia Antica and the Roman Coast is a great option. Ostia Antica was once the bustling port city of ancient Rome and dates back to the 4th century BC.
Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this once-thriving city and get a glimpse of how life was during ancient Rome. Make sure not to miss the amphitheatre, the mosaics, and the Temple of the Republican Forum.
After exploring the ancient city, head to the nearby beaches, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy some fresh seafood.
3. Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio
Ostia Antica | Image by Frank Conte from Pixabay
Travel north from Rome, and you’ll discover the charming hilltop town of Orvieto, perched on a volcanic plateau and surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The town is famous for its magnificent Gothic cathedral as well as its underground tunnels and caves, where Etruscan tombs and mediaeval wells can be explored.
From Orvieto, it’s just a short drive to Civita di Bagnoregio, a stunning mediaeval town located atop a rocky outcropping in the middle of a valley. Visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets and alleys, which are lined with ancient buildings and charming shops, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
4. Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius
Pompeii | Image by Graham Hobster from Pixabay
If you’re fascinated by ancient history and natural wonders, a day trip to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius is a must. Pompeii, the ancient Roman city that was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, with incredibly preserved ruins of houses, theatres, and public buildings.
Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that caused the destruction, is still active but can be visited on a guided tour, offering stunning views of the Bay of Naples and the surrounding countryside.
5. Naples
Naples | Image by Lajos Móricz from Pixabay
Near Pompei and Mount Vesuvius is the famous city of Naples, or Napoli. This city is also known for its history, stunning views of the sea, and, above all, its delicious food.
While in Naples, you can visit
- The Naples National Archaeological Museum hosts one of the most extensive collections of ancient art and artefacts in the world.
- Piazza del Plebiscito is the largest square in Italy and is surrounded by some of Naples’ most important buildings, including the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola.
- Castel dell’Ovo, which is located on a tiny island in the Bay of Naples, is a mediaeval castle that offers stunning views of the city and the sea.
- Go shopping. Naples is a great place to do some shopping, with everything from luxury boutiques to street markets. One of the most famous shopping streets in Naples is Via Toledo, which is lined with shops selling everything from clothing to souvenirs. If you venture to the street markets, make sure to have some cash to pay for your purchases.
No trip to Naples would be complete without trying a slice (or two) of pizza. Some of the most famous pizzerias in Naples include Da Michele, Sorbillo, and Di Matteo. However, Naples has much more to offer than just pizza, with a variety of delicious seafood dishes, pasta dishes, and pastries. Some other must-try foods in Naples include sfogliatella (a crispy pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese), babà (a small, rum-soaked cake), and gelato.
6. Capri and the Blue Grotto
Capri | Image by Bilal EL-Daou from Pixabay
If you are looking for a day trip that is pure luxury and glamour, you cannot go wrong by heading to the island of Capri, located just off the coast of Naples. Capri is a stunningly beautiful island that has been a popular destination for the rich and famous for centuries, thanks to its clear waters, rugged coastline, and glamorous boutiques and restaurants.
One of the highlights of a trip to Capri is a visit to the Blue Grotto, which is a magical sea cave that glows with an ethereal blue light caused by the sunlight reflecting off the water. Another highlight are the beautiful Gardens of Augustus, which offer amazing views of the sea and the famous Faraglioni rock formations.
7. Sorrento
Sorrento | Image by user32212 from Pixabay
If you are looking for some authentic Italian culture, then Sorrento is a must-visit destination. Sorrento’s historic centre is a maze of narrow streets, colourful houses, and charming squares. One can take a stroll around the town to soak up the authentic Italian atmosphere and admire the stunning views of the Bay of Naples.
Sorrento is also surrounded by beautiful beaches such as Marina Grande, Marina Piccola, and Bagni della Regina Giovanna, so make sure you pack your swimming costume so you can spend a few hours relaxing on the sandy shores after taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
8. Positano and the Amalfi Coast
Positano | Image by Benjamin Davies from Pixabay
If you need more after visiting Sorrento, then you cannot miss Positano and the Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast is a group of charming towns built on the rugged coastline of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The towns are perched on steep cliffs that overlook the sea, offering amazing views of the sea, rocky beaches, and colourful houses.
Positano is the most popular town on the Amalfi Coast and is well known for its pastel-coloured houses, narrow streets, and exclusive boutiques. The Amalfi Coast, on the other hand, includes other picturesque towns such as Amalfi, Ravello, and Praiano, each with its own unique charm.
9. Florence and the Chianti Region
Florence | Image by MustangJoe from Pixabay
For a day trip that’s full of art, history, and delicious food and wine, head north to Tuscany and visit the city of Florence and the nearby Chianti region. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a city that boasts some of the world’s most famous works of art, including Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. Visitors can explore the stunning architecture, enjoy delicious Tuscan cuisine, and shop for high-end Italian fashion.
After exploring the city, head to the nearby Chianti region, where you can taste some of the best wines in Italy, visit charming hilltop towns, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
10. Siena
Siena | Image by Makalu from Pixabay
Another jewel of Tuscany well worth a day trip is the town of Siena. The town is famous for its stunning Gothic architecture, including the Duomo di Siena and the Torre del Mangia.
Visitors can also explore the Palazzo Pubblico and the Piazza del Campo, which host the famous Palio horse race, which takes place twice a year on July 2nd and August 16th.
11. Assisi and Spello
Assisi | Image by VĂN HỒNG PHÚC BÙI from Pixabay
If you are looking for a spiritual and scenic trip, make sure to visit the charming towns of Assisi and Spello in the Umbria region. Assisi is famous for being the birthplace of St. Francis, and his legacy is visible everywhere, from the stunning Basilica of San Francesco to the peaceful Hermitage of the Carceri.
Spello, on the other hand, is a charming mediaeval town that boasts beautiful churches, colourful flower displays, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
12. Pisa
Pisa | Image by schmidmatthieu from Pixabay
Pisa is most famous for its leaning tower, but the tower is just one of the attractions at the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli.
The Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Camposanto Monumentale, which are all in the Piazza dei Miracoli, are full of art and history and are must-visits after climbing all the way up to the tower.
If you have some time to spare before returning to Rome, you can spend some time at the Palazzo Blu art museum, explore the Botanical Gardens, or just stroll along the Arno River or the lively shopping street of Corso Italia.
13. Castelli Romani and Frascati
Sunset over Frascati | Image by ddzphoto on Pixabay
South of Rome lies the picturesque region of Castelli Romani, a group of small towns perched on the hills overlooking the city.
If you’re a wine lover, a day tour to Frascati is not to be missed. This charming town is known for its crisp white wines and stunning countryside. With a visit to a local winery, you’ll learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the region’s finest wines.
Another gem in the area is the mediaeval town of Nemi, famous for its strawberries and the beautiful Lake Nemi.
14. Castel Gandolfo
Lake Albano | Image by Trish Hartmann on Flickr
Castel Gandolfo is a small town located in the hills overlooking Lake Albano. The town is probably best known as the summer residence of the Pope, but it also offers great views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets or visit the Papal Palace or the Barberini Gardens. The town is also famous for its white wine, which is produced locally.
15. Viterbo
Viterbo | Image by Peter H on Pixabay
Viterbo is a historic town located just north of Rome. The town is known for its architecture, with the highlight being the Palazzo dei Papi, a historic palace that was once the residence of the popes and features beautiful architecture and artwork.
Another highlight is to walk along the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route that runs through Viterbo and is a great place to explore the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can also explore the town’s ancient hot springs, which have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties.
16. Santa Marinella
Santa Marinella is a beautiful seaside town located about 60 kilometres northwest of Rome, and it makes for a lovely day trip from the city. You can get to Santa Marinella by taking a train from the Termini station, and the journey takes about an hour. Depending on the time and month, expect to pay between 5 and 15 euros for the ticket.
Once you arrive, you can take a stroll along the town’s beautiful promenade and admire the stunning sea views. You can also visit the town’s mediaeval castle, Castello Odescalchi, which dates back to the 15th century and now serves as a museum. The area is surrounded by several gorgeous beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. The most popular beaches include Spiaggia Libera di Santa Marinella and Spiaggia dei Gravelloni.
17. Lake Bracciano
Lake Bracciano | Image by Đức Tình Ngô on Pixabay
Lake Bracciano is a volcanic lake that formed more than 3 million years ago and is considered one of Italy’s cleanest lakes. The lake is surrounded by the three picturesque towns of Bracciano, Trevignano Romano, and Anguillara Sabazia. The lake used to be an important source of drinking water for the ancient Romans, and during World War II, it was used for military training.
Each of the three towns that surround Lake Bracciano has its own distinct character and history. The largest of the three, Bracciano, is home to the impressive Orsini-Odescalchi Castle, a 15th-century castle that once housed many popes and Italian nobility. Trevignano Romano has narrow streets and colourful houses, while Anguillara Sabazia is known for its ability to witness beautiful sunsets and also for its lakeside promenade.
Lake Bracciano is located around 50 kilometres (30 miles) northwest of Rome, and the easiest way to get there is by car or train.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rome offers a wealth of options for day trips that are sure to satisfy any traveller’s interests. From ancient ruins to stunning landscapes, there is definitely something for everyone.
By visiting these destinations, you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Italy’s rich history and culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do day trips from Rome typically take?
Most day trips from Rome require at least 8–10 hours, depending on the distance from Rome. If you plan to travel by yourself to the chosen destination, it is best to start as early as possible to make the most of your day.
Are these day trips from Rome suitable for families with children?
Yes, most of the day trips from Rome are suitable for families with children. Do note that on many of these tours, there will be long stretches of time when you will be on the road, so it's good to bring with you some entertainment for the little ones.
Are these day trips from Rome trips available year-round?
Yes, day trips are generally available year-round, but some tours may have seasonal availability or they might only be available only on certain days of the week.
How is the best way to get to the surrounding regions of Rome?
Rome is well connected by train to cities like Florence, Naples, and Pisa; however, for smaller towns and villages, you might need to rent a car or book yourself on a tour.
