28 Best Day Trips From Rome

There are many incredible day trips from Rome and you can easily leave the city and feel you are a world apart from it. 

Rome, the Eternal City, is fantastic place: a perfect mixture of historic and archeological sites, beautiful churches, museums and art galleries, lively vibe, delicious food and fun nightlife. However, it can get overwhelming: traffic, noise, crowds of tourists – after a few of days there, you’ll probably need a change of scenery.

The good news is that Rome is so centrally located in Italy, and so well connected, that you can easily get out of it even just for a day. Continue reading for the most interesting places you can visit on day trips from Rome. I’ll start with the closest ones to the capital.

The Best Day Trips From Rome

Ostia Antica

Submitted by Rhonda Krause of Travel? Yes Please!

If you love history and ancient sites then Ostia Antica is definitely one of the nicest day trips from Rome. Ostia is connected to the city via the Appian Way. Located only 30 km (18.6 miles) from Rome, this town used to be the commercial port of the Eternal City. Facing the sea, it was here that goods were stored and then shipped to Ancient Rome via the Tiber river.

At its peak – between the 1st and the 5th century BC – Ostia got to count around 100,000 inhabitants – it was actually twice bigger than Pompeii. It was also a very wealthy city, with many villas and residential areas for its rich inhabitants. There were shops, taverns and temples, a political forum, an amphitheater and thermal baths. A walk along the main street of the site – the ancient Decumanus Maximus – will provide many a wow. Make sure to spot the ancient theater and the mosaics inside the Baths of Neptune!

You can get to Ostia by train from Roma Porta San Paolo Station towards Roma-Lido. The trip takes around 40 minutes. You can use your Roma Pass to hop on the train. For a more in depth visit of the site, you could consider joining a guided tour. Click here for more information.

Make sure to read my post How To Visit Ostia Antica.

Ostia

I’ve already mentioned Ostia Antica among the most popular day trips from Rome, but this lovely coastal town is the perfect place to visit if you need for a dip in the sea, too – and you can combine visiting the archeological site with something more relaxing. The beach lacks the charm of those in Sardinia, but you will find lots of good restaurants serving seafood, plenty of places to rent umbrellas and – if you are tired of basking in the sun – a nice center with Art Nouveau buildings,.

Trains to Ostia run from Roma Ostiense Station – you can use your Rome City Pass to get there. The journey takes around 30 minutes. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here.

Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este, Tivoli

Submitted by Ingrid Zudor of IngridZenMoments.com

The perfect Sunday getaway, an escape from Rome to Tivoli would offer one of the best day trips from Rome and plenty of history without having to travel too much and too far.

Tivoli is home to two of the best preserved Roman villas – Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este. These are some of the nicest places for day trips from Rome and truly a must-visit. 

The first was built in the 2nd century by Emperor Hadrian. It was so grand that in his final years he decided to make it his official residence; and it was so large that it was more like a village proper. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, despite the passing of time it is in incredible conditions and inside you’ll find the remains of temples, palaces, libraries and barracks. You’ll also be able to enjoy the gorgeous park around it.

You can buy tickets to Villa Adriana here or here.

Villa d’Este, where the son of Lucrezia Borgia used to live, is a 16th century villa with beautiful gardens complete with some of the prettiest fountains and waterfalls in the area of Rome. 

Another place you may want to check out in Tivoli is the Villa Gregoriana, a beautiful park at the foot of the acropolis that was commissioned by Pope Gregory XVI around 1834.

Trains to Tivoli leave from Rome Tiburtina station and take you there in less than one hour. Guided tours usually include a visit of both villas and admission tickets. For more information click here. 

Make sure to also read my posts A Guide To Hadrian’s Villa, Tivoli: 17 Best Things To Know and A Guide To Villa D’Este And Tivoli Gardens, Italy.

Frascati and the Castelli Romani

Submitted by Annabel Kirk of Smudged Postcard

Many songs in the Roman dialect celebrate the beauty and the wines of this region. The most famous one is “La Società Dei Magnaccioni” (you can listen to it here). This part of Lazio is one of the best and easiest day trips from Rome. It’s located at about half hour drive south of the city – scattered there you’ll find many lovely picturesque towns. You can go there to hike through the beautiful Alban Hills, to eat and drink wine and just take in (and photograph) the amazing views.

Frascati is a brilliant day – or evening – trip from Rome. It is one of the hilltop towns which make up the Castelli Romani, set in the once-volcanic Colli Albani. Due to its elevated location, Frascati is particularly appealing in summertime where the temperature is a few degrees cooler than the capital.

Don’t miss Villa Aldobrandini and Villa Falconieri. Make sure to also visit San Pietro Cathedral. When lunch time comes, head to one of the many osterie and try porchetta (slowly roasted pork on the spit).

Romans and tourists alike flock here for evening meals. Although more well known for its refreshing sparkling white wine, the region is also famed for its pork products. As the sun sets behind the hills, people meet at communal tables to enjoy the local cuisine. Carafes of wine are collected from the wine cellars and charcuterie stalls sell delicious porchetta dishes.

The streets of Frascati are a joy to wander through in the summer evenings. Families meet for an evening passeggiata, children enjoy ice creams and there is a convivial atmosphere to the place.

Other places to visit in the Castelli Romani are Nemi, Rocca di Papa, and Castel Gandolfo – famous for being the summer residence of the Pope (a property that actually belongs to the Vatican).

20 kilometers south east of Rome, Frascati is best reached by one of the regular trains from the capital – a journey of around 30 minutes. Just ensure you don’t miss the last train back! Alternatively, opt for a guided tour such as this one. For wine tasting tour of the area, you can consider this option.

You should also read my post A Guide To The Castelli Romani.

Castel Gandolfo

Set on the shores of Lake Albano is Castel Gandolfo, a lovely small town famous for being the Pope’s summer residence and one of the most popular places to visit on day trips from Rome. The 17th Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo was built above the ancient residence of Emperor Domitian. The palace and the minutely manicured gardens were designed by Gianlorenzo Bernini’s, as well as the main church.

Once you are done visiting the Papal Palace, head down to the lake for a refreshing dip. You’ll find a well equipped beach where you can rent a kayak or a SUP for extra fun. Hungry? Find a “fraschetta” – a typical village eatery – and enjoy a delicious local meal.

Direct trains to Castel Gandolfo depart from Roma Termini station. Tickets cost €2.10. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here. Alternatively, go on a guided tour that includes roundtrip transportation and a visit to the Papal Palace. You can book it here.

Ladispoli

Once known as Alsium, Ladispoli is 35 km (21.7 miles) north of Rome and a locals’ favorite for a beach escape in a place that is not nearly as crowded as Ostia. Torre Flavia Beach has nice sand dunes, marshes and even the ruins of a medieval fortification.

Cotral Buses to Ladispoli depart from Rome’s Valle Aurelia metro stop (Line A) and take about 40 minutes.

Fregene

Back in the 16th century, Fregene was owned by the Rospigliosi, one of the most powerful families in Rome. Nowadays, this remains one of the best beaches near Rome with a nice forest of pine trees that protect the shoreline and lots of nice seafood restaurants. You will find everything you may possibly need for a relaxing day.

Cotral Buses leave from Rome’s Valle Aurelia metro stop (line A) and take about one hour.

Santa Marinella

A popular seaside resort already in Roman times – when people would go to the Aquae Caeretanae – today Santa Marinella is a great alternative to Ostia beach, not to mention much prettier. The beach is actually free to access (contrary to most places in Ostia). You will find lots of nice seafood restaurants. When you’ve had enough of the sun, head to town for a walk around the pretty streets.

Next to Santa Marinella you’ll find Santa Severa, another popular beach.

Hop on a train from Termini Station to Civitavecchia and get off at Santa Marinella. It takes about one hour. The beach is a short walk from the train station. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here.

Bracciano

Located on the shores of a volcanic lake from which it takes its name, this is a lovely small medieval town in the province of Viterbo that can be easily visited on day trips from Rome. It used to be a fishing and farming village but at the beginning of the 15th century the pope gave it to the Orsini family, who built the local castle, now known as Odescalchi Castle. This mansion has been disputed by Roman aristocrats throughout the 15th century and was finally confiscated by pope Alexander VI in 1496.

Other attractions include the beautiful Santo Stefano cathedral and the lake and nature reserve that are a perfect place for a relaxing walk.

Trains to Bracciano leave from various stations in Rome – Trastevere, Ostiense, San Pietro or Valle Aurelia heading to Viterbo. All trains stop in Bracciano. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here. Alternatively, you can go there on a guided trip. For more information, click here.

Make sure to also read my post An Easy Guide To Anguillara Sabazia.

Bomarzo

One hour and 15 minutes drive from Rome, Bomarzo, in the province of Viterbo, is a lovely small town known for the 16th century Park of the Monsters. Also known as the Garden of Bomarzo, the park was commissioned by Pier Francesco Orsini in honor of his deceased wife.

Getting to Bomarzo by public transport will require taking a train to Viterbo and then a further bus. It’s much easier to rent a car for the day so that you can also visit other places nearby such as Viterbo and other towns in Tuscia (more about that in a bit). Check out the prices of car rental here. Alternatively, join a guided tour such as this one.

Tarquinia and Cerveteri

Submitted by Soumya Gayatri of Stories by Soumya

If you are looking for a unique day trip from Rome, head to the old city of Tarquinia made famous by the presence of 6000 ancient Etruscan graves that were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2004.

Some of these Etruscan tombs at Tarquinia date back to as early as 9th century BC and reflect various kinds of burial practices from ancient times.

Located in the province of Viterbo, about 90 minutes drive from Rome, Tarquinia is well known to Italians, but not a very popular destination among foreigners – yet. This is an ancient Etruscan town whose best site is a necropolis where there are some incredibly well preserved paintings and murals. When visiting, make sure to also pop in the very well curated archaeological museum.

You can book a guided tour here.  

Cerveteri is a beautiful medieval town where you’ll find some very well preserved Etruscan ruins. It also has a very well preserved necropolis and a good museum.

The necropolis of Tarquinia and Cerveteri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Trains to Tarquinia leave from Rome Termini Station – make sure to check the train timetable and buy train tickets here. Once in Tarquinia, you can either walk to the Etruscan necropolis or take bus D. The best way to get to Cerveteri from Rome is by car. Alternatively, you’ll have to take the train from Rome to Marina di Cerveteri, where you’ll have to catch bus D to Piazzale Moretti or Piazza Aldo Moro and from there bus G to the necropolis.

Another option to visit Tarquinia and Cerveteri on the same day is on guided day trips from Rome such as this one.

Viterbo and the Tuscia

Viterbo, at about 100 km (63 miles) from Rome, is one of Italy’s best kept secrets and a perfect place for day trips from Rome. I am biased towards it as it’s where my dad and his family are from. The lovely capital of the Tuscia region, once known as Etruria and spread across northern Lazio, Umbria and Tuscany’s lower Maremma, is significantly lesser known so it is the perfect place to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. 

Viterbo has a beautiful historical center surrounded by well kept walls. It was the seat of the pope for about 24 years in the 13th century, and it has a magnificent Papal Palace – the Palazzo dei Papi. Other places of interest are the Romanesque-Gothic Duomo of San Lorenzo and the Church of Santa Maria Nuova. Other places to visit are the Terme dei Papi, historical thermal spas which you can enjoy for a real steal; and the Palazzo dei Priori, which has painted with beautiful frescoes. The oldest area in the city is San Pellegrino, a maze of narrow cobbled alleys and tiny squares.

If you happen to be around Rome at the very beginning of September, visit Viterbo in time for Santa Rosa, a fantastic festival held on the evening of 3 September in honor of its saint – it may be worth spending a night there for this. During the festival, a team of 100 porters carries an enormous papier-mache statue that is beautifully illuminated, moving it along the narrow streets of the historic center. In 2013 Santa Rosa festival was added to UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list.

Trains to Viterbo leave from Rome Aurelia train station. The journey takes around one hour and 45 minutes. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here. Once there, you can walk around on your own or join a guided tour of the city. You can book it here.

Make sure to read my post A Curated Guide To Viterbo.

The best way to appreciate Tuscia, however, is on a road trip – so make sure you rent a car for this! Places you may want to include in your itinerary are Soriano nel Cimino, home of the well kept Orsini Castle and of a beautiful forest; Calcata, located on top of a hill and whose views from a distance are breathtaking; Vitorchiano, and Bagnaia, where you have to visit the beautiful Villa Lante.

Lake Bolsena

I grew up listening to my dad’s stories of how he’d jump on the volcanic Lago di Bolsena as a child and then, once he grew up, he started enjoying glasses of Est! Est!! Est!!! wine – so I must mention it in this post! Home of a quaint, small lakeside town, Bolsena Lake is located in the Tuscia Viterbese.

The village is home to a few beautiful churches which include San Flaviano Church. You’ll also be able to see German Bishop Johannes Defuk’s tomb who, much like my father, fell in love with the Est! Est!! Est!!! wine to the point he decided to move there.

Take the train to Montefiascone departing from Roma Termini. The journey takes about one hour and 40 minutes. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here.

Civita di Bagnoregio

Considered one of the ultimate places to visit in Lazio, Civita di Bagnoregio is a lovely tiny town of Tuscia known as the dying village (though tourism is bringing it back to full like) because it stands on a hill that is slowly eroding and collapsing into the Valle dei Calanchi below. It makes for an excellent day trip from Rome – just avoid going at the weekend as it can be crazy busy.

Civita di Bagnoregio is best visited independently by car. You can check out the prices of car rental here. If you’d rather use public transport, you will have to take the train to Orvieto first – it departs from Termini station and takes between 50 and 90 minutes. From Orvieto, you can then take the Cotral Bus to Civita di Bagnoregio.

For guided tours departing from Rome, click here. Make sure to also read my post A Short Guide To Civita Di Bagnoregio.

Orvieto

Submitted by Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

The little Umbrian hill town of Orvieto makes for the perfect day trip from Rome. It is located around 25 km (15.5 miles) from Civita di Bagnoregio so if you have your own car you can visit both on the same day. It is easy to access by public transport, and there are so many fun things to do in Orvieto in one day!

Located at little over 440 meters (1,443.5 feet) above sea level on top of a tuff hill, on the border with Umbria, it was founded between the 9th and 8th centuries BC, and subsequently inhabited by the Etruscans.

The village is blissfully isolated, connected to the surroundings only through a narrow bridge that has had to be rebuilt several times – the Nazis destroyed the original one during WWII. You’ll have to walk into the village through the only gate, the Romanesque Arch of Porta Santa Maria, and once there you will be able to explore the marvelous medieval remains, with the beautiful cathedral, the gorgeous main square, and the many tiny shops.

It’s most notable landmark is the Duomo which has a stunning mosaic facade, but the undergrounds are worth visiting too. You should also walk up – or take the funicular – to the walls of Albornoz Fortress. There also are the remains of an Etruscan Necropolis that may be worth exploring.

The train is the best way to get to Orvieto from Rome. They run frequently and take just over an hour. From the station, take the funicular to the historic center. From the funicular station, a local bus will bring you to the cathedral.

You can also visit Orvieto on guided day trips from Rome that includes a stop in Assisi. You can book it here.

Make sure to read my post A Short Guide To Orvieto.

Assisi

Christians will definitely know about Assisi. This lovely small hill town of Umbria is famous for being the birthplace of St. Francis. It has one of the most beautiful Basilicas in Italy – the Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi; as well as a maze of tiny cobbled alleys and small shops, local restaurants and cafés. Other places worth visiting are the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Not far from town, Rocca Maggiore and Rocca Minore forts are great vantage points for views of the city.

It takes little over 2.5 hours to reach Assisi from Roma Termini train station. For a faster trip, you may want to take the train to Santa Maria degli Angeli which takes little over 1.5 hours, and from there take a taxi or a bus. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here. Once in Assisi, you can explore independently, or join a guided tour such as this one.

Guided tours of Assisi that depart from Rome often include Orvieto in their itinerary. For more information, click here.

Rocca Massima

Submitted by Megan Starr of Megan & Aram

Rocca Massima is not a village that is on many people’s radar when taking a day trip from Rome, but if you love an off-the-path experience and a little bit of adventure, it is definitely worth the trip!

Located on a large hill hovering 735 meters over the land below, Rocca Massima offers unparalleled views of the region – boasting views of the Pontine plain as well as the Tyrrhenian Sea (on clear days).

There is not an overabundance to do there, but you will keep occupied if you’re a nature lover. Some of the major sights in Rocca Massima are actually the local peaks of Monte Garofalo and Monte Rinzaturo. Because of the rugged terrain, you will find several hiking opportunities in and around these mountains.

One of the most popular hikes is the Rocca Massima loop trail that takes you around Monte Lupone to Campo di Segni and back to Rocca Massima. It is a moderate trail that is around 26 km (16 miles) long.

Another top thing to do in Rocca Massima is to visit Flying in the Sky, the longest and fastest zipline in the world. It is one of the best places to go ziplining in Italy and is a fantastic Rome day trip for those seeking a bit of adventure in a remote area in Lazio.

The best way to get to Rocca Massima is by private car. You can hire someone to take you there, but it is a very remote and quiet area and it is best seen and reached by private vehicle.

Sperlonga

With its Ponente beach following the main road, this is probably the best beach you can reach on an easy day trip from Rome. Once home to a palace belonging to Emperor Tiberius, Sperlonga also features a nice sea grotto which was first discovered in 1957 and where lots of statues and other objects were found. Needless to say, seafood restaurants are one of the main features!

Take the regional train to Naples from Rome Termini Station and get off at Fondi-Sperlonga – you’ll get there after about one hour and 15 minutes. Once there, find a shuttle to the beach. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here.

Ponza

Submitted by Linda Faison of La Dolce Fit Vita

Just because you’re in Rome doesn’t mean you can’t have that Italian coastal moment! That island vibe complete with boat cruising or vespa driving is just a mere couple of hours from Rome believe it or not.

A place where you will get to experience some of the most pristine waters in Italy, Ponza Island is a true hidden gem. Not only is Ponza a quiet and uncrowded place, it’s also a place where you can have a more authentic experience exploring a more “rugged” type of nature.

If you’re a fan of boating, rent a boat and have fun exploring all the little coves. Cala dell’Acqua is just stunning and if you’re a fan of diving you can even venture to explore the sunken American World War II ship there.

Another local favorite spot are the Piscine Naturali, natural pools that have developed into the actual rock of the island. The water here is absolutely stunning and there are even a couple of restaurants right on the rock! For aperitivo, an absolute must is getting a drink at Chiaia Luna where you will get the most beautiful sunset views overlooking the bay.

Getting to Ponza is quite easy. Drive or take the train to either Anzio or Formia because you can easily take the train and then walk to the port (it’s about a 10/15 min walk). Opt for a hydrofoil to make the most of your day trip and if you drove to the port, leave your car in parking. Make sure to also plan ahead when going to Ponza – many ferries do not operate during off-season so check those timetables! For a guided tour departing from Rome and that includes a boat ride, click here.

Naples

Submitted by Lori Sorrentino of Italy Foodies

Naples is a popular destination to visit on day trips from Rome, even though it deserves more than a day. This is one of Italy’s biggest cities, with so much to see. Among the places you shouldn’t skip there are Piazza del Plebiscito, Castel d’Ovo, San Severo Chapel, San Gennaro Catacombs, the Archeology Museum, the Royal Palace and the Cathedral. Take a walk along the Spaccanapoli, a small road that cuts through the Old Town – along that you’ll find the church of Gesù Nuovo and Santa Chiara Monastery.

If there is one thing you shouldn’t miss that is the iconic foods of Naples. This is where pizza was invented in 1830, and I wholeheartedly recommend to make it a point to try it there. You can pick the traditional one or opt for the “pizza a portafoglio” – which is folded in two; or the pizza fritta. Just build up an appetite before you go! Before you visit, make sure to check out this guide to the best pizzerie in town.

You can also join a street food such as this one.

There are regular Frecciarossa (fast train) departing from Termini train station that take you to the city’s central station in little over one hour. Opt for an early train so you have more time to explore the city. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here. You can combine visiting Naples with a tour of Pompeii, too.

Make sure to read my posts A Complete Guide To Visiting Pompeii, The Best Things To Do In Naples and A Great Itinerary To See Naples In A Day.

Pompeii

Submitted by Pauline of BeeLoved City

Most people visit this astonishing archeological site as a day trip from Naples, but the good news is that Rome is close enough for you to be able to enjoy it even if you aren’t heading south.

Pompeii is famous for having been completely abandoned as a consequence of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD which killed more than 2,000 people and buried it under a large coat of volcanic ash and pumice. Nowadays, you can visit it to explore the remains of the many beautiful buildings and even of the bodies that were covered in ashes. the most notable sights are the Tempio di Apollo, the Terme Suburbane city bathhouse and the many villas of the noble class that once lived in the city.

To get to Pompeii you have to catch the train from Termini to Napoli Centrale and then head to Napoli Piazza Garibaldi station nearby and catch the train to Salerno, stopping in Pompeii. You can check the train timetable and buy train tickets here. Count around 2 hours for the overall journey and make sure to get your tickets to the site before visiting. You can get tickets here. 

Alternatively, you can join a guided tour such as this one. 

Amalfi Coast

In the Bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular places to visit in Italy. While a day is not much to take all there is to see, a guided tour may be logistically a good idea. Make sure to stop in the scenic villages of Sorrento, where you should spot the Chiostro di San Francesco Monastery, and the Museo Correale di Terranova; go to Amalfi and Positano to take in the beautiful views, try the delicious local food, and even spend some time at the beach.

I wouldn’t recommend trying to visit the Amalfi Coast from Rome independently. You would have to take the train from Roma Termini station to Napoli Centrale, and once there transfer to Napoli Garibaldi station, which is a few minutes walk, and take the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento (this also stops at Pompeii).

On the other hand, there are several tours depart from Rome. You may want to consider this one.

Make sure to read my posts A Day Trip From Rome To Amalfi Coast and The Best Things To Do On The Amalfi Coast.

Positano

Submitted by Jackie Rezk of Jou Jou Travels

Positano is one of the top Amalfi Coast destinations and when you will arrive, you will understand exactly why! There are beautiful beaches, sunset views, winding roads, endless shopping, and the best food you could imagine.

The main beach is Spiaggia Grande and is the most famous. If you would like to find a quieter beach then go to Fornillo or Arienzo Beach Club (Pictured, pre-booking required). A really fun activity includes taking a sunset boat ride which takes you to the famous arch and beach, the Fiordo di Furore.

Be sure to end your day with tasty food from Chez Black which specializes in seafood.

You can get to Positano from Rome either by taking the train to Naples and then taking the ferry to Positano. The train is a 1-hour journey to Naples and the ferry is an additional 35-minute journey. Alternatively, you can drive to Positano which will take just over 3 hours. Finally, you have the option of joining a guided tour from Rome for a completely hassle free day. You can book it here.

Sorrento

Submitted by Joanna of The World In My Pocket

Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast in general are one if Italy’s most romantic areas.

There are quite a few things to do in Sorrento, starting with experiencing the beach clubs in Marina Piccola. Whilst there aren’t proper beaches in Sorrento, it’s part of the experience to sunbathe under a blue umbrella on one of the piers. Another must is having lemon gelato and limoncello made from the famous Sorrento lemons. A great place for a tasting, inside a real lemon grove, is Giardini di Cataldo.

One of the hidden gems in Sorrento is the Chiostro di San Francisco. This quiet 14th century monastery has a lush garden and its hidden just behind one of the most popular viewpoints in Sorrento.

If you want to visit Sorrento from Rome, you can easily do it both my public transport and by car. With the fast train, it takes less than three hours to reach Sorrento, but you have to change in Napoli. By car, it’s the same amount. The road between Napoli and Sorrento is so beautiful that I highly recommend you drive it. For a hassle free day, you can join a guided tour such as this one.

Capri

Located in the Bay of Naples, Capri is a real gem of an island best enjoyed on a boat trip. Though a couple of days are recommended to take it all in, you can see quite a bit in just a day if you know where to go. Once you are there, you can enjoy the picturesque views, go to the Blue Grotto (a coastal cavern where you will be able to admire the bluest water you can imagine) and the Faraglioni cliffs, as well as enjoy a drink in one of the many local bars.

The best way to get to Capri from Rome is on a hassle-free, guided tour such as this one.

Florence 

Florence is about 300 km (186.4 miles) from Rome, which seems quite far. To be completely honest, I wouldn’t recommend visiting on day trips from Rome – there is too much to see and do, and this is a city that deserves more time. However, the train journey is quick and if you only have limited time in Italy you may want to give it a go.

Florence has a wealth of fabulous attractions and such a deep history that you’ll only be able to scratch the surface in a day. Among the places you shouldn’t miss there are the Duomo, where you can see the beautiful Cathedral and the Baptistery, Piazza della Signoria which looks much like an open-air museum and where you can spot the Fountain of Neptune and the gallery of statues in the Loggia dei Lanzi; the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio over the Arno River; the Galleria dell’Accademia and the best viewpoint in town at Piazzale Michelangelo.

You can get to Florence by train in less than 1.5 hours on the Frecciarossa and Freggiargento trains that depart regularly from Termini station. I recommend getting an early train – make sure to check the train timetable and buy train tickets here. Guided tours departing from Rome usually include a stop in Pisa too. Check them out here.

Make sure to also read my post The Best Things To Do In Florence.

Pisa

Pisa is another lovely city whose center is fairly small and can be visited in just a few hours. The most famous sight there is the Leaning Tower, which dates back to the 12th century and is located in the gorgeous Campo de’ Miracoli.

To get to Pisa, you will have to travel to Florence Santa Maria Novella station and then change for Pisa. The overall journey will take you slightly more than two hours. Guided day trips from Rome to Pisa usually also go to Florence. For more information, click here. 

Val d’Orcia

Submitted by Marat Stepanoff

Talking about the best of Tuscany, it is impossible not to mention Val d’ Orcia, the heart of Tuscany. There are incredible rural landscapes of the famous Tuscan hills, cypress alleys and the best part of it is that albeit a bit far, you can visit this lovely region on day trips from Rome.

If you are limited to one day, you can visit the highlights of Val d’ Orcia and drive along the valley itself. Don’t forget to have a wine and cheese Pecorino di Pienza tasting. And of course, you should take a walk through the medieval tiny towns.

In Val d’ Orcia you must drive because there are many places that cannot be reached by public transport. If you are traveling from Rome, I recommend renting a car. Take the A1 Highway from Rome. Then you need to take the highway Chiusi – Chianciano Terme. Then drive to Montepulciano. The distance from Rome to Montepulciano is approximately 180 km (112 miles), but it takes no more than an hour and a half.

Montepulciano is not located in the Val d’ Orcia, but in any case, it is part of the route.

If you are not sure if you can abstain from wine tasting you should take one of the one-day tours from Rome such as this one. A professional guide will show you the best and you don’t have to limit yourself.

What other places do you recommend visiting on day trips from Rome?

Further Readings

Do you want to save some time and avoid the lines to major tourist attractions in Rome? Check out my incredible hacks:

• How To Get Tickets To The Colosseum And Skip The Lines
• How To Get Tickets To The Sistine Chapel And The Vatican Museums
• How To Get St. Peter’s Basilica Tickets
• A Complete Guide To Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica Dome
• How To Get Galleria Borghese Tickets
• A Guide To Visiting The Pantheon
• All The Food In Rome You Should Eat: 25 Delicious Dishes
• 18 Useful Things To Know Before Visiting Rome

If you have limited time in Rome, make sure to also read my itineraries:

• The Best Things To Do In Rome
• Why Visit Rome?
• The Perfect Itinerary To See Rome In 2 Days
• A Fantastic Itinerary For 4 Days In Rome
• A Wonderful Itinerary For 5 Days In Rome
• A Great Itinerary For A Fabulous Week In Rome
• 31 Incredible Places To Explore Rome Off The Beaten Path
• How To Get From Fiumicino Airport To Rome City Center
• The Best Roma Pass Options
• The Best Airbnbs In Rome

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