Rome is an incredible destination that will keep curious visitors busy for weeks (or even years!). From ancient history to papal intrigue, every street has a story to tell.
But Rome is also an excellent base for exploring other parts of Lazio and Italy. From small towns to artistic wonders, there are so many places you can reach by public transport. Here are 25 of the best day trips from Rome, how to get there and why we think you will love them too.
1. Albano Laziale
A charming town with a rich history that gives its name to Lake Albano below it. Less popular than neighboring Castello Gandolfo, but it’s easy to combine the 2 in a single day. Visit the Roman amphitheater or go underground to see the impressive cistern built to store water for the garrison and the Catacombs of San Sentore.
How to get there: Take the train from Termini Station to Albano Laziale.
2. Anagni
Thanks to several of its citizens becoming popes in the Middle Ages, Anagni became known as the ‘City of the Popes’. You’ve probably never heard of it, but I think it’s one of the best day trips from Rome for 2nd or 3rd time visitors. Visit the old papal palazzo and learn the story of when Pope Boniface VIII was slapped here. Next, go under the cathedral to the frescoed crypt and see why it is called the Medieval Sistine Chapel. Take a wander through the town, and finish your visit with lunch looking out across the surrounding countryside.
How to get there: Buy a train ticket for ‘Città di Anagni’ (not Anagni-Fiuggi), as this includes both the train and the bus up to the town. The bus leaves from outside the station bar. We recommend getting the 9.14 train, which will get you to the station in time to have a coffee before the bus leaves. To go back, buses leave the town at 13.55 or 15.00.
3. Assisi
The birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi is a place of spiritual and cultural pilgrimage for many visitors. The Basilica of St. Francis and Giotto’s fresco cycle are worth the trip alone, but do take time to explore other sites connected to the saint – the Basilica of St. Clare, the Sanctuary of San Damiano and the Eremo delle Carceri – as well as the Roman remains at the heart of the town. Don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli in the lower town, a Papal basilica that contains the chapel where St. Francis was called to start the Franciscan Order.
How to get there: There are trains to Umbria from Roma Termini every couple of hours. Some are direct, others you’ll have to change in Foligno. They depart from platform 2EST, a 10-minute walk from the main station, so plan to arrive well in advance of the departure time.
4. Bracciano
In summer months, Bracciano is popular with locals and tourists for its spectacular lake. Just an hour north of Rome (making it a very easy day trip), the town is dominated by the Orsini-Odescalchi Castle. The castle, which has hosted celebrity weddings, welcomes visitors with a variety of tours.
How to get there: Take any train to Bracciano or Viterbo from Roma Ostiense, Roma Trastevere, Roma San Pietro, Valle Aurelia or Monte Mario.
5. Bologna
For a complete change of pace, head north to Emilia Romagna, a region famed for its food and Medieval history. Whatever the weather, the miles of porticoes will protect you as you eat your way through the real Bolognese sauce – known as ragù and not served with spaghetti! – traditional lasagne, tortellini, piadina and mortadella. How to avoid coming back several pounds heavier? Climb one of the famous towers or the world’s longest portico to the Sanctuary of San Luca above the city!
How to get there: There are many high speed trains every hour that stop at Bologna Centrale. Booking is required, and early reservations often mean better prices. Take a look our guide to travelling by train in Italy.
6. Bomarzo
The curious Renaissance Park of the Monsters isn’t the easiest day trip from Rome, but it’s one of the most unique. Sculptures of bizarre and mythical creatures hide along the path ready to delight visitors of all ages. The walk only takes about an hour, but there’s a picnic area at the end so take lunch with you and enjoy the shade of the Sacred Wood a bit longer.
How to get there: If going by public transport, this day trip is best done on a Saturday. Take the 9.30 train from Termini to Orte, then the 10.40 COTRAL bus to Bomarzo.
7. Caserta
Inspired by Versailles, the Royal Palace of Caserta was home to the Spanish royals who ruled the south of Italy. The opulent Baroque palace is impressive, but the park is the real draw. Follow the canals, fountains and waterfalls that lead from the palace to a point in the distance. Then relax in the English Garden with its landscaped ruins and search for Venus bathing between the trees.
How to get there: There are a few direct high speed trains from Roma Termini to Caserta each day. The train takes just over an hour and the station is conveniently located right opposite the palace entrance.
8. Castel Gandolfo
One of the easiest day trips from Rome, the pretty town of Castel Gandolfo is just a 40-minute train ride from Termini. The town is famous for the papal summer villa (now a museum since Pope Francis decided he didn’t need a vacation pad), their gardens and the wonderful views over Albano Lake.
How to get there: Take the train to Albano Laziale from Roma Termini. The schedule is a bit odd (sometimes there are hourly trains, sometimes there aren’t) so check the timetable for the day you want to visit carefully.
9. Cerveteri
The Etruscan necropolis of Cerveteri is world’s away from the grandeur of Rome. Thousands of tombs, from simple holes in the rocks to hobbit-style houses of the dead give a fascinating insight into this peaceful, pre-Roman culture. After visiting the site, stroll into the town to visit the museum and have lunch before heading back to Rome.
How to get there: Trains to Pisa or Civitavecchia leave regularly from Termini and stop at Marina di Cerveteri. From the train station, you need to take a bus to the necropolis.
10. Civita di Bagnoregio
Civita di Bagnoregio is a remarkable, and very photogenic, town balanced on a hilltop between Viterbo and Orvieto. Known as ‘the dying town’ this Etruscan settlement is crumbling slowly into the surrounding valley and has long been abandoned. The Medieval streets of this tiny town are only accessible on foot by a toll bridge. Sensible shoes are a must!
How to get there: Easiest to get to by car. Between Vitbero and Orvieto, park in the modern town of Bagnoregio and follow the signs for the old town on foot. One tip: although there is parking near the footbridge, the closer you park, the higher the cost.
By public transport, take the train to Viterbo Porta Fiorentina, then the COTRAL bus to Bagnoregio.
11. Florence
For art lovers, Renaissance Florence is one of the best day trips from Rome, and one of the easiest. The city has a totally different vibe to Baroque Rome, and whether you choose to hit up the Uffizi and Accademia, or stick to churches and smaller museums, you’ll find the influence of Michelangelo and Botticelli all around you.
How to get there: Any fast train heading north from Rome will stop in Florence. The trip will take 1.5hrs and the station is a short walk from the Duomo. It couldn’t be more convenient!
12. Milan
If Italy’s fashion capital is on your bucket list, it’s possible to get there and back from Rome in a day, but be ready for a long day! Make sure to book tickets to The Last Supper (these won’t be available on the day) and the Duomo in advance to save time. Our advice is to stick to the center and don’t try to see the whole city in a single day.
How to get there: The fastest of fast trains will get you from Roma Termini to Milano Centrale in 3hrs and 8mins. The train station is a bit of a walk from the center, so take the subway or a taxi to save time.
13. Marmore Waterfalls
When you need a break from the city heat, the Marmore waterfalls are the perfect day trip from Rome. Not only are these ancient manmade waterfalls impressive, there are plenty of trees and spray from the crashing water to keep you cool. Bring a picnic and book in advance if you want to see the most spectacular view from the Lovers’ Balcony!
How to get there: Take the train from Roma Termini to Terni. Leave the station. Walk towards the road directly in front of the station and take the first left (it’s a 2-minute walk). Buses for the waterfalls leave from the first stop on the left and there’s an office there where you can buy tickets.
14. Montecassino
The historic Abbey of Montecassino was founded in the 6th century by St. Benedict. Sadly the abbey was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt afterwards, incorporating as much of the original as possible. The monastery welcomes visitors and there are tours you can join to see parts that areas you can’t access on your own.
How to get there: Take the train from Roma Termini to Cassino. From outside the railway station, take a bus (or taxi) up to the monastery. Check the bus times on the monastery website before leaving.
15. Naples
Whether I fancy a really good pizza, some sun or a change of culture, Naples is the best day trip from Rome. Don’t be put off by its bad reputation! Sure, it can be dirty and chaotic, and yes, you will see entire families on a single scooter with not a helmet between them, but it’s also authentic and welcoming. Check out 30 ideas of things to do in Naples.
How to get there: Pre-book the high speed train from Termini that will get you to Naples in just over an hour.
16. Ninfa
Although not easy to get to, the peaceful gardens of Ninfa make for a very peaceful day trip from Rome. A must-see for garden lovers, the microclimate around the ruins of a Medieval town has allowed a unique collection of plants to thrive here in the perfectly landscaped wilderness.
How to get there: The visit to Ninfa is easiest by car. If you aren’t planning to drive in Italy, you can take the train to Latino Scalo, then a taxi to the gardens. Make sure to book entrance tickets for Ninfa Garden in advance as the number of people allowed inside at any time is limited.
17. Orvieto
Between Rome and Florence, Orvieto is built on a platform of volcanic rock. Visit the magnificent Gothic cathedral which dominates the town and see the chapel of San Brizio covered with frescoes by Luca Signorelli. Don’t miss the underground world of secret tunnels which kept popes and citizens safe when the city was under siege.
How to get there: InterCity trains are the best option, though there are slower regional trains too. At the train station, get the funicular train up into the town.
18. Ostia Antica
The ancient port city (now pretty far from the sea) is an easy half day trip from Rome. You’ll find ruins of houses, shops, bathhouses, temples and a theater to explore. The site is big and doesn’t usually get crowded (except on the first Sunday of the month) making it an excellent place to relax.
How to get there: Take the train for Ostia Lido from next to the Piramide metro station to Ostia Antica. This isn’t a great trip for anyone with mobility issues.
19. Palestrina
In ancient times, an important sanctuary stood on the site of Palestrina. Built on many platforms, it was so big that on a clear day it could be seen from Rome. Today, the platforms are still there with the town on top of them. At the top is Villa Barberini, a fascinating archaeological museum with great views and few visitors. The collection includes the Nile Mosaic, an important depiction of life in Roman Egypt and some rather strange animals.
How to get there: Take metro line A to Anagnina and take a COTRAL bus to Palestrina. Buses run regularly and take about 1hr to arrive at the foot of the old town.
20. Perugia
Although small, the capital of Umbria is a vibrant International town, home to one of Italy’s most important Italian schools for foreigners. Visit the Perugina chocolate factory, the newly restored Gallery of Art and explore the streets for some incredible views.
How to get there: There aren’t many direct trains from Rome to Perugia. If you don’t feel like leaving at 7.30, look for trains to Foligno where there are frequent connections.
21. Pompeii
If Pompeii is on your bucket list, you could pop down south for a day trip from Rome to tick it off. Get up early and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the ancient city, from the Villa of the Mysteries on one side to the amphitheater on the other and enjoy some mozzarella before heading back to Rome.
How to get there: On Sundays there’s a direct high speed train from Roma Termini to Pompeii. On other days, get any fast train to Naples, then take the local circumvesuviana line from underneath the central railway station to Pompei Scavi.
22. Spoleto
I’m always surprised that Spoleto doesn’t get more visitors. Get the combined ticket for all the sites (minus the cathedral) and spend the day exploring the town’s ancient Roman sites and imposing castle. Don’t miss Filippo Lippi’s frescoes in the duomo, or the chance to climb the bell tower for amazing views.
How to get there: Spoleto is on the same train line from Termini as Assisi, but quite a bit closer to Rome. Arrive at Termini with time to spare as the platform is quite a walk from the main station. Once you arrive in Spoleto, there are escalators and moving walkways that help you move around the town.
23. Tarquinia
Another Etruscan gem, Tarquinia is famous for its painted tombs. The necropolis looks like a strange field filled with doors when you arrive. Each door leads to a staircase so you can access one of the tombs buried underground. Don’t miss the archaeological museum just inside the town walls! The a collection of Etruscan artefacts is impressive, especially the many sarcophagi with their ‘warts and all’ portraits of the former occupants.
How to get there: Hourly trains connect Roma Termini with Tarquinia (also stopping at Ostiense, Trastevere and S. Pietro). From Tarquinia station, jump on a local bus to avoid the 4km uphill walk to reach the town.
24. Tivoli
The lovely town of Tivoli has been a popular escape with centuries of Romans and remains the best day trip from Rome for many visitors. Hadrian’s sprawling villa is now a UNESCO site, along with the delightful water gardens of Villa d’Este. If you aren’t in a rush to get back, enjoy lunch with a view and stroll in the shade of trees and caves in Villa Gregoriana.
How to get there: Villa d’Este is in the center of the town and easily reached by train from Termini or Tiburtina. Villa Adriana is outside the town. From Rome, take metro B to Ponte Mammolo, head to the bus station where the COTRAL bus leaves for Tivoli. Catch the bus from outside the site back to Rome or into the center of Tivoli.
25. Viterbo
This medieval walled city, once the seat of the Papacy, boasts a well-preserved historic center. Wander through the historic San Pellegrino quarter, discover the story of the longest papal election in history at the papal palace or visit the thermal baths. If you happen to be in Italy in early September, the Feast of Santa Rosa on September 4th is not to be missed.
How to get there: Regional trains to Viterbo leave most hours from Roma Ostiense (also stopping at Trastevere, San Pietro and Aurelia). Some trains don’t run on Sundays and holidays so check the schedule carefully for the day you plan to travel.
And 5 day trips from Rome to avoid
With so many of the best day trips from Rome just an hour or two away, why would you choose to spend half the day travelling somewhere for a couple of hours? Having been all over Italy by train and car, we strongly recommend NOT taking day trips from Rome to these places.
Venice
Venice is 4hrs from Rome by high speed train, then a water bus or taxi to reach St. Mark’s. It’s doable in a day if you wake up very early, but is it worth it just to say you’ve been? We don’t think so. Better to divide your time between Rome and Venice. Spend half a day travelling between the two cities, then stay a couple of nights so you can really explore this unique place.
The Amalfi Coast
The trick to the single, winding road to the Amalfi Coast in high season is to get there early. Coming from Rome for the day, the tour buses will have slowed the traffic to a crawl as they edge round the bends long before you arrive. If you are still determined, take the high speed train to Salerno and get the ferry to visit the towns of Amalfi and Positano.
Capri
Like the Amalfi Coast, it’s best to arrive in Capri early before the crowds. You could rent a private boat from Naples, but if you’re happy to spend a few thousand euros on a day trip, why spend a few nights in the area and do it properly?
Tuscany Wine Country
Although we think that visiting Italy by train is faster and less stressful than driving, you will need a car to visit Tuscany. If you want to do some wine tasting, there are plenty of vineyards around Rome, or make Florence or Siena your base for a few days so you can really explore the region.
Pisa
Getting to Pisa and back from Rome is a day isn’t hard, but it’s just not that interesting. The 6am InterCity train will get you there in just over 3hrs and the return train is at 2.50pm. You’ll have more than enough time to climb the tower and visit the other sites on the Field of Miracles, but the tiny space is always crowded and you’ll be happy to get back to Rome!
