6. Ariccia (45min. from Rome)
Ariccia has a long and interesting history to uncover. You’ll find more works of Bernini as well as ruins of the Via Appia Antica and Emperor Vitellius’s villa.
Palazzo Chigi
Another famous creation by Bernini for Pope Alexander VII. Modest on the outside, but full of the ornate Baroque style Bernini is known for on the inside.
Porchetta
While in Ariccia be sure to try porchetta, a local specialty of spit-roasted pork with fresh herbs. You can enjoy it on it’s own or in a panini. Porchetta consists of a pork roast, de-boned, skin-on, salted, stuffed with liver, fennel, garlic, rosemary, and other local herbs. It’s then either spit, or slow roasted over a wood fire for a minimum of 8 hours. Just in case you feel up to the challenge of recreating it at home.
7. Bracciano (1hr. from Rome)
Lake Bracciano
Like Lake Albano, Lake Bracciano is another volcanic crater lake. As one of the cleanest lakes in Italy, it’s perfect for sailing, canoeing, and swimming. Use of Motorized boats are limited to professional fisherman and police, keeping the lake pristine. There are plenty of places to eat and sample the local fish.
Castello Orsini-Odescalchi
This 15th century castle is the largest in Italy and was once home to the infamous Borgia family. The castle houses a museum and hosts cultural events.
8. Anzio & Nettuno (1hr. from Rome)
Fishing Ports
Fishing is a big deal in this coastal town. There are no shortages of local restaurants serving up the daily catch.
Anzio Beachead Museum
A museum dedicated to the WWII amphibian landing in Anzio. It also hosts an archaeological museum. Everything resides in the 17th century Villa Adele.
Forte Sangallo
BONUS: Sperlonga (2hrs. from Rome)
Last, but certainly not least in our list of day trips from Rome, is the picturesque cliff town of Sperlonga.
Sperlonga Beach
Below the Medieval cliff town of Sperlonga sits a gorgeous beach. Need we say more? Soak up the sun, and go for a swim. Most tourists don’t know this place exists, so you’ll get that true local experience.
Torre Truglia
Built in the 17th century to ward off pirates, the tower features great views of Sperlonga. Climb to the top and be sure to bring your camera!
Villa of Tiberius
These are the ruins of Emperor Tiberius of Rome’s summer home. Little is left of the villa, aside from the grotto. The on-site museum features the grotto’s many artifacts. Literature buffs will enjoy the ancient statues depicting scenes from Homer’s Odyssey. Fun fact: Sperlonga is believed to be where Odysseus lands in Homer’s epic poem.
Have you ever taken any of these day trips from Rome? Do you have any others to recommend? Let us know in the comments below!
Silvia Bolasco-Gianfortune
Silvia believes that the best way to travel is from a local perspective – do as the locals do, go where the locals go, and eat where the locals eat.
