Day Trips from Rome:
5 Hidden Gems to Explore Nearby
You already know that the Eternal City is full of history, culture, and endless sights, but sometimes, a day trip from Rome can refresh your Italian adventure. If you’re planning a longer trip to Rome, I would suggest taking a short tour from the city to explore new corners of Italy without committing to overnight stays.
I suggest choosing from 5 amazing places you can visit on a day trip from Rome. Pick a direction and enjoy stunning towns, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural experiences only a quick journey away.
Day Trip from Rome: Tivoli
Let’s start with the north-east direction. Located just 30 km from Rome, Tivoli offers a peaceful retreat. It’s one of the best day trips for those who love Renaissance villas, ancient ruins, and beautiful landscapes.
Key Attractions in Tivoli
Villa d’Este: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Villa d’Este is a must-see for anyone visiting Tivoli. It’s famous for its Renaissance architecture and waterworks. The villa’s gardens feature over 500 jets in fountains, pools and water troughs. The most iconic fountains are Neptune and the Hundred Fountains. These are 2 of the most photographed spots in the garden.

Visit the villa’s terraces, which provide panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A musical fountain show is held regularly, where the fountains’ dance’ to classical music.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes for easier walking.
Villa Adriana (Hadrian’s Villa): This complex is one of Italy’s largest and most important Roman ruins. It was designed to reflect Hadrian’s travels across the Roman Empire, and its architecture draws inspiration from Greece and Egypt.
The main attraction is the Canopus, a long pool surrounded by statues. And the Maritime Theater, a circular building once used as Hadrian’s private retreat.
Tip: During your day trip from Rome, allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore Villa Adriana, as it covers a large area. Consider hiring a guide or using an audio tour to get a deeper understanding.
Villa Gregoriana: For those who love nature, Villa Gregoriana is a great place to visit. This park features walking paths, waterfalls, and ancient ruins. One of the highlights is the Great Waterfall, which cascades from a height of 125 meters.
The park has wooded trails and several viewpoints over Tivoli. It’s less crowded than Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana but equally beautiful.
Tip: Bring water and wear sturdy shoes, as some paths can be steep and uneven. The park is ideal for a picnic, so pack a snack .
Getting to Tivoli
Getting to Tivoli from Rome is easy and convenient. Depending on your travel style, there are several ways to reach the town.
Car: Renting a car offers more flexibility, especially if you want to explore the surrounding area. The drive to Tivoli takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking is available near the main attractions, though spaces can fill quickly during the busy season.
Train: The most popular option is the train from Rome’s Termini Station. The journey takes about 40 minutes, and tickets cost around €5. The train station in Tivoli is located within walking distance of the main attractions.
Bus: Another option is to take a bus from Tiburtina Station. Although the bus takes about 1 hour, it’s a budget-friendly option.
Extra Tips During Your Day Trip from Rome to Tivoli
When to visit: Tivoli can be visited year-round. But spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer the most pleasant weather for walking around. Summers can be hot, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Combine with a spa: If you have extra time, consider visiting the Terme di Roma spa near Bagni di Tivoli. It’s the perfect place to relax in thermal baths after a day of sightseeing.
Day Trip from Rome: Orvieto
The second choice for your day trip from Rome in the region of Umbria. Orvieto is a charming hilltop town about 120 km north of Rome, high on a volcanic plateau. Orvieto is known for its Gothic cathedral, underground caves, and countryside views.
Key Attractions in Orvieto
Orvieto Cathedral (Duomo di Orvieto): The town’s most famous landmark is the Duomo di Orvieto. It’s a Gothic cathedral that took more than 300 years to complete. Its façade is decorated with intricate mosaics, bas-reliefs, and sculptures. Inside, you’ll find Luca Signorelli’s frescoes. These frescoes are considered some of the finest Renaissance art in Italy.

Tip: There is a small fee to visit the interior. Guided tours are available if you want to learn more about the art and history.
Orvieto Underground: One of the most unique experiences is exploring the town’s underground caves. The Etruscans carved these labyrinths of tunnels and passageways over 2,500 years ago.
Book a guided tour of the Orvieto Underground to explore the ancient wells, cisterns, olive presses, and pigeon houses used for food production. The tour usually takes about an hour and is available in multiple languages.
Pozzo di San Patrizio (St. Patrick’s Well): If you decide to spend your day trip from Rome in Orvieto, you should visit its engineering marvel – St. Patrick’s Well. It was built in the 16th century to ensure water supply during the siege. The well is 53 meters deep and features a double helix staircase that allowed mules to transport water up and down. Walk down the 248 steps to the bottom of the well. The descent is not tricky, but due to the spiral layout, it can be a bit dizzying. The view of the well from the top is also spectacular.
Torre del Moro: If you like panoramic views, climb the 47-meter-tall medieval tower Torre del Moro. You’ll have a view of the Umbrian landscape and the town’s red-tiled rooftops.
The climb is around 200 steps, but there is an elevator for the first part of the ascent. Once at the top, you’ll get some of the best photo opportunities in Orvieto.
Orvieto’s Medieval Streets: Wander through Orvieto’s medieval streets. The town is filled with charming alleyways, artisan shops, and family-run trattorias.
Getting to Orvieto
Orvieto is one of the more popular day trips from Rome due to its easy access to things to do.
Car: If you prefer to drive, Orvieto is about 1.5 hours from Rome by car. Parking is available at the town base. From there, you can either walk up or take the funicular.
Train: A direct train from Rome Termini Station takes more than 1 hour. You can take the funicular to the town centre at the Orvieto train station. The funicular is located just outside the train station and runs every 10 minutes.
Extra Tips for Orvieto
When to visit: Orvieto can be visited year-round. However, spring and fall are the best times to explore the town due to the mild weather.
Festivals: If you visit in late May or early June, you may catch Orvieto’s famous Corpus Domini procession. This medieval religious celebration dates back to the 13th century. The procession features historical costumes and a grand parade through the town’s streets.
If you are planning to visit the Eternal City, read this guide for the perfect itinerary for your 1 day in Rome.
Day Trip from Rome: Ostia Antica
Just 30 minutes from Rome, Ostia Antica offers a journey back in time. As the once-thriving port city of Rome, Ostia Antica was a hub of trade and commerce. It served as the gateway between the capital and the Mediterranean. Today, it stands as one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Italy. Ostia Antica is a great choice if you’re looking for a day trip from Rome that combines history and nature.
Key Attractions in Ostia Antica
Ostia Antica Archaeological Park: The main draw of Ostia Antica is the Archaeological park. Here, you can wander through the ruins of ancient Roman buildings or stroll down ancient streets lined with the remains of houses, shops, and public buildings.
You should visit the Baths of Neptune, known for their intricate black-and-white mosaics depicting Neptune. Also, see the Forum of Corporations. Once, it was a bustling business centre with over 60 offices, and now it is a fascinating place to explore ancient Roman commerce.

Tip: The site is large, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Guided tours are available, but self-guided tours with maps and audio guides are also great.
Roman Forum: Like any major Roman city, Ostia Antica had its own Roman Forum. This marketplace served as the city’s commercial and political centre. You can see the remains of ancient temples, warehouses, and shops.
House of Diana: One of the best-preserved buildings in Ostia Antica is the House of Diana. It’s an ancient multi-story building with courtyards, balconies, and communal spaces.
Look for ancient graffiti—some carved by the building’s original residents nearly 2,000 years ago.
Mithraeum: During your one-day trip from Rome, visit Mithraea, an underground temples dedicated to the god Mithras. These secretive temples were used by followers of the mystery religion of Mithraism. The Mithraeum of the Baths of Mithras is well-preserved, with an altar and frescoes still intact.
Tip: The Mithraeum is underground and can be dark, so bring a flashlight or use your phone’s light.
Getting to Ostia Antica
Ostia Antica is one of the easiest day trips, thanks to its proximity to the city and excellent transportation options.
Train: The most convenient way to reach Ostia Antica is by taking the regional train from Rome’s Porta San Paolo Station. The train ride takes just 30 minutes.
If you’re using a Rome public transport pass, it covers the fare to Ostia Antica. The train station is also connected to the Piramide metro station, so you can easily catch a metro from anywhere in Rome to the Porta San Paolo station.
Car: Ostia Antica is about a 40-minute ride from central Rome. There’s plenty of parking available near the entrance to the archaeological park.
Extra Tips for Your Day Trip from Rome to Ostia Antica
Bring water bottles: There are fountains throughout the site, but bringing a bottle of water with you is a good idea.
Wear comfortable shoes: The ancient streets are made of uneven stones, so wear comfortable shoes.
Combine with a beach day: Ostia Antica is located close to the coast, so combining your visit with a trip to the beach is easy. Lido di Ostia is the most popular beach near Rome. It offers plenty of amenities, including beach clubs, restaurants, and lounge chairs for rent.
For your short stay in the city, learn how to spend perfect 2 days in Rome.
Day Trip from Rome: Castel Gandolfo
Just 25 kilometres from Rome, nestled in the Alban Hills, lays Castel Gandolfo. The town is known for its picturesque setting and views over Lake Albano. Castel Gandolfo is one of the best day trips from Rome by train if you’re a fan of history, nature, or architecture.
Key Attractions in Castel Gandolfo
Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo: The Papal Palace has served as the summer residence for Popes for centuries. Recently, the Vatican opened it to the public. The palace itself is Baroque architecture. Inside, you’ll find many historical artefacts, including personal items used by various Popes.
Tip: To visit the Papal Palace, you must book a tour in advance, as the Vatican controls access. The tours are available in multiple languages.
Lake Albano: Castel Gandolfo overlooks the crystal-clear waters of Lake Albano. The volcanic lake is ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming and canoeing. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, walk along the scenic pathways encircle the lake.
The Vatican Observatory: Another unique attraction in Castel Gandolfo is the Vatican Observatory. It’s one of the oldest astronomical research institutions in the world, but it is not always open to the public.

The Town Centre: The historic town centre of Castel Gandolfo has cobblestone streets with charming shops and cafes. Visit Piazza della Liberta, the main square, to explore the Baroque-style church called Chiesa di San Tommaso di Villanova, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Getting to Castel Gandolfo
Castel Gandolfo is one of the most convenient and accessible day trips from Rome by train.
Train: A direct train from Rome Termini Station to Castel Gandolfo takes approximately 45 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day. Once you arrive, it’s a short walk to the town centre and the Papal Palace.
Car: If you prefer to drive, the scenic route to Castel Gandolfo takes about 40 minutes by car. Parking is available near the lake and the town centre.
Extra Tips for Visiting Castel Gandolfo
Take a boat ride: If you have extra time, consider renting a rowboat or pedal boat on Lake Albano. It’s a peaceful and relaxing way to enjoy the lake’s clear waters and surrounding hills.
Visit the Roman Castles region: Castel Gandolfo is part of the Roman Castles region, a collection of towns in the Alban Hills. If you have more time, consider exploring nearby towns like Frascati, famous for its white wine, or Ariccia, known for its porchetta.
If you’re planning to stay 3 days in Rome, read this article to learn everything you need to know.
Day Trip from Rome: Florence
Although it may seem too far for a day trip from Rome, Florence is easily accessible. Thanks to Italy’s high-speed trains, it’s just about 1.5 hours. If you’re a fan of art, culture, and history, this is one of the best day trips.
Key Attractions in Florence
Florence Cathedral (Duomo): Florence’s most recognisable symbol is the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly called the Duomo. The structure’s standout feature is Brunelleschi’s Dome, which dominates the city skyline.
Climb to the top of the dome and enjoy the best panoramic views of Florence. The cathedral’s exterior, covered in pink, green, and white marble, is just as impressive as its interior.

Tip: Book your tickets online to avoid long lines. Especially if you plan to climb the dome or visit the adjacent Giotto’s Bell Tower and Baptistery of St. John.
Uffizi Gallery: Art lovers can’t visit Florence without a trip to the Uffizi Gallery. Home to countless Renaissance masterpieces, it features works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Ponte Vecchio: Visit the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest bridge. This medieval stone bridge is lined with small shops, mostly jewellers. The bridge offers a great view of the river and the city, particularly at sunset.
Piazza della Signoria: Piazza della Signoria is home to the Palazzo Vecchio, the city’s historic town hall. The square is also a large open-air museum featuring the Fountain of Neptune and a replica of Michelangelo’s David.
Galleria dell’Accademia: The Galleria dell’Accademia is most famous for housing Michelangelo’s David. The museum also displays other works by Michelangelo and a collection of religious paintings.
Getting to Florence
Train: The Frecciarossa high-speed train from Rome Termini to Florence Santa Maria Novella station is the best travel method. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Florence, all major attractions are within walking distance or a short bus ride. But remember to book train tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Car: Driving from Rome to Florence is possible, but it’s not recommended due to traffic and parking challenges. The drive takes about 3 hours, and parking in Florence’s city centre can be difficult and expensive.
Extra Tips for Visiting Florence
Wear comfortable shoes: Florence’s historic city centre is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes.
Book tickets in advance: Many of Florence’s top attractions have long lines. Booking your tickets online in advance will save you time.
If you are planning to stay less than a week in the Eternal City, find the perfect itinerary for your 4 days in Rome.
A day trip from Rome is a great way to enhance your Italian adventure. From the quiet beauty of Castel Gandolfo to the art and history of Florence, these trips let you experience more of Italy’s charm and culture. So, when planning your time in Rome, consider a quick escape to discover more of what Italy offers.
If you want to explore the Amalfi coast, read this article about other Amalfi day trip from Rome.