Where to go in Italy after Rome?
Let us assume that you have quite a few days to spend in the capital, and are looking to dip your toes into exploring its surroundings, or other Italian towns and cities. It is such a pleasure and privilege to be able to have so many options within the country to travel to- this is why (very) occasional day trips from Rome are so common for local families.
You just need to have a desire for it, and on a whim, off you will be to immerse yourself into another environment!
What’s close to Rome?
You may be surprised by the myriad of jewels that crown the outskirts of Rome. Towns and cities in the countryside or by the sea that lend all kinds of history to the Roman Empire, that in today’s contemporary world shine for the architecture, artifacts and stories that they have to unveil to you.
Rome might be the first city that pops into your mind when you think about Italy, but there are some other cities that can be easily accessed from there that should be part of the top contenders of your Italian itinerary. They are famous from an artistic, cultural and culinary standpoint, all highlights in understanding the beauty of this Meditteranean country.
The biggest examples to be given:
Florence and Naples.
This article will include the best day trips from Rome that can be taken, a little bit about the history of each place and what these destinations have to offer you.
4 places to visit near Rome by train
Here are the most interesting day trips to take from Rome by train.
Tivoli
Known for its beautiful gardens and ancient Roman Villas, Tivoli is a sublime out-of-city experience that is a popular choice amongst the inhabitants of Rome. It is the most ethereal destination included in this list, with a dreamlike atmosphere that is sure to capture your imagination.
Location: Tivoli is in the Lazio region, located about 30 km northeast of Rome.
How to get there: It takes about an hour to reach Tivoli from Rome, with trains leaving hourly from the stations.
What to do:
- Villa d’Este: Tivoli is best known for this 16th century villa and its gardens, which are considered to be some of the most beautiful to be found in Italy. Here you can find gorgeous Renaissance landscapes and many fountains such as Cento Fontane (Hundred Fountains) and the Water Organ Fountain.
- Hadrian’s Villa: Emperor Hadrian’s 2nd century AD Villa Adriana can be found close to Villa d’Este. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a mix of ancient architectural styles.
Tour to take: Tivoli and Villa d’Este
This tour includes transfer services to and from the destination. This removes the possibility of missing a connecting train or being confused by an unfamiliar station. Be accompanied by a licensed guide filled to the brim with knowledge; this will further help bring out the beauty and marvel of the countryside and the estate!
Cerveteri
Visiting the town and comune of Cerveteri is one of the stranger, more remarkable day trips you can take from Rome. It is best known for the heritage it has preserved from the ancient (pre-Roman) Etruscan civilization, therefore allowing you to have quite peculiar explorations!
Location: Cerveteri also belongs to the Lazio region; it lies about 33 km northwest of Rome.
How to reach: It takes approximately 1 hour to reach Cerveteri from Rome, with trains leaving every half hour.
What to do:
- Necropolis of Banditaccia: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this necropolis of the Etruscan society is a fascinating and unique endeavour. Explore the tombs which are characterized by mounds of dirt used to form natural domes that cover each burial site.
- National Archaeological Museum of Cerveteri: Learn more about this ancient civilization and their ways of societal development through showcases of artifacts and other findings.
- Santa Maria Maggiore: Visit the medieval church in the historic center of the town.
- Panoramic views from the Cerveteri Castle: Climb atop the medieval Ruspoli fortress to get panoramic views of the town.
Tour to take: Necropolis of Cerveteri
This tour includes a transfer from Rome, as well as a guide for the necropolis and museum, which would be the most ideal experience to dive into the histories of a vital civilization that most do not otherwise know about.
Orvieto
Orvieto is built upon a rocky, volcanic cliff in the countryside of Umbria and is historically rich for it dates back to the Estrucan period and is dense with Renaissance and Medieval architecture.
Location: Orvieto is located in Umbria, about 96 km north of Rome.
How to reach: By train it takes 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Orvieto, with trains leaving every four hours from stations in Rome. By car it approximately the same time.
What to do:
- Duomo di Orvieto: This cathedral is one of the most stunning examples of Italian Gothic architecture. The terrace of the cathedral also offers beautiful panoramic views of the Umbrian region.
- St. Patrick’s well: This is not an ordinary well. Named after the saint of Ireland, the well is an architectural wonder, which was built in the 16th century in order to supply water for the entire city of Orvieto.
- Wine tasting: Orvieto is known for its wine -a well known white wine is Orvieto Classico- and so there are plenty of vineyards, cellars and wine tastings for you to indulge in!
- Etruscan Necropolis and underground: The pre-Roman people -called the Etruscans- are a fascinating civilization to study due to their art, culture and advanced engineering.
Tour to take: Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio
This customizable trip offers a transfer to and from Rome, and has the added benefit of visiting the nearby Civita di Bagnoregio which is called the dying town for its incredibly small number of inhabitants. The only way to reach it is through steep pedestrian stairs, a truly rare experience.
Ostia
For a day by the sea, Ostia is the most accessible place to visit near Rome by train. The modern part of the city of Ostia is connected to the old, which is an archaeological site of a well-preserved port city that was of great significance for the trade activities of the Roman Empire.
Location: 24 km southwest from Rome, and on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea (this is where the Tiber River drains out!)
How to get there: It takes about 25-30 minutes to reach Ostia by one of the trains leaving hourly from Rome’s stations.
What to do:
- Ostia Antica Archaelogical Site: Here, you can discover different aspects of the ancient port city such as the well preserved ruins that would give you insight on the city’s roads, infrastructure and public spaces. You can see temples, public baths and theaters, as well as mosaics and frescoes which would decorate this city.
- Relax by the Ostia beach: The sandy shores of Ostia beach make it the perfect place to swim and tan, or enjoy a seafood-based meal at a beachfront restaurant.
- Look at the Baths of Neptune in Ostia: These well-preserved baths from the 2nd century AD have beautiful mosaics and a fountain that depicts Neptune, the mythological god of the sea.
Tour to take: Ancient Ostia Tour
If you would much rather reach Ostia by car, this tour offers a transfer to and from the location, and also includes a licensed guide to help you understand the preserved ancient Roman city, offering insight that will help you roleplay as an archaeologist!
Other wonderful places to visit near Rome by train
Travel from Rome to Florence
Florence is one of the most beautiful cities close to Rome to visit if you want to travel back in time and immerse yourself in the Renaissance period. It is home to galleries that hold some of the most globally esteemed art pieces. The city itself follows a gorgeous color palette and has many ancient artisan practices and gastronomic taverns to explore.
Florence is perhaps the best choice for day trips from Rome by car considering the relatively short travel distance in relation to the absolute magnificence that the city has to offer.
Location: 289 km north of Rome, part of Tuscany (it is the capital of the region!).
How to get there: The city is a 1.5-2 hours train ride away. By car it takes approximately 3 hours.
What to do:
- Visit the Uffizi and Accademia Gallery: These two revered galleries hold an enormous collection of Renaissance art that may take hours to explore. At the Uffizi you can see Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera, da Vinci’s Annunciation, Raphael’s Madonna of the Goldfinch and works by Caravaggio, Titian, Rembrandt and more. At the Accademia you can view Michelangelo’s towering statue of David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world.
- Visit the Duomo: This cathedral is architecturally captivating, a visual icon to symbolize Florence with just as the Colosseum symbolizes Rome. The facade is made up of green, pink and white marble, and climbing to the top of the Duomo gives you a brilliant panoramic view of the city.
- Basilica di Santa Croce: This Italian Gothic basilica is one of the most important Franciscan churches in Italy. It has many chapels, Renaissance frescoes and paintings and also serves as a tomb for many influential Italians such as Galileo, Michelangelo, Machiavelli.
- Indulge in Tuscan cuisine: Make use of this time in Florence to dine at various establishments to try what the region of Tuscany does best..such as meat dishes and wine!
Tour to take: Florence with Accademia or Uffizi Gallery
This tour makes planning your Florence trip easier by including either a car transfer or the inclusion of train tickets. With the two galleries being as vast and overwhelming as they can be, having a guide for both to make sure you get the most out of one of the best art experiences in the world is optimal!
Travel from Rome to Pienza and Montepulciano
These two picturesque towns are nestled in the heart of Tuscany, and serve as great examples of the idyllic Tuscan scenery we associate the region with. However, both towns can be differentiated from one another, each with specific characteristics to be enjoyed by visitors.
Location: Located northwest from Rome in Tuscany, Pienza and Montepulciano are located approximately at a distance of 146 km.
How to get there: It takes about 2.5-3 hours to get to Pienza by train, and around the same amount of time by car. A car from Pienza to Montepulciano takes 20-30 minutes.
What to do in Pienza:
- Explore Piazza Pio II: This square is characterized by two magnificent structures on each opposite end. One is a Renaissance palace commissioned by Pope Pius II with a beautiful inner courtyard, and the other is the cathedral, Duomo di Pienza. There is a well located in the center of the piazza.
- Enjoy the views: Rolling hills and shades of green and auburn mix and meld into one another, making this one of the most beautiful views to witness.
- Eat Tuscan specialties: Pienza is notable for the production of pecorino cheese, and it comes in many different varieties. There is a lot of warm, hearty food to try in Tuscany, but when in Pienza, do indulge in a cheese tasting!
In Montepulciano:
- Duomo di Montepulicano: This cathedral has both Gothic and Renaissance design elements and a bell tower that can be climbed for a panoramic view.
- Fortezza di Montepulciano: This historic fortress provides the highest lookout point from the town and exhibits a breathtaking view. Its construction is a mix of several architectural styles, and it has a museum within it.
- Drink fine wine: Montepulciano is renowned for its wine culture, with remarkable vineyards, cellars and wine bars to enjoy.
Tours to take
We can help you organize a true Tuscan experience capable of delighting the palate. Here are two tours to look into:
Tuscany Wine and Cheese tour in Pienza and Montepulciano
Transport is included in this tour, making your journey stress free and as picturesque as it can be, without giving public transport any chance of dampening the experience. This tour takes you to both towns, providing you with a guide if you prefer to have one, and offers a lunch and cheese tasting experience on top of a hill for a breathtaking view of the region! You will venture to Montepulciano to have wine in a historical underground cellar.
Pienza and Montalcino
Private transfer is included in this tour as well, and will provide you with a licensed guide if requested. It can be customized to take you to either Montalcino or Montepulciano. You will have lunch and wine here, with a chance to taste the famous wine of the town called Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
Moving around in the Tuscan region without a car is not usually easy unless you have a car at your disposal to fully experience the place. This is why we recommend taking a tour where you can customize different aspects yet have the comfort of logistics being taken care of.
Travel from Rome to Assisi
Another town of enormous cultural importance , with significant relevance from a religious point of view is Assisi. It is the birthplace of St. Francis, one of the Saints in Christian history, and so many view visiting Assisi as performing a pilgrimage of sorts.
Location: Assisi is in the Umbria region and is approximately 131 km from Rome.
How to get there: It takes 2-2.5 hours by car, and 2-3 hours by train depending on the type you book.
What to do:
- Basilica of St. Francis: Explore this gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage site which is the peak highlight of the town, nestled at the edge of a lookout point. The pearly medieval structure looks beautiful amidst its backdrop at all times of the day and the interior includes frescoes from renowned Italian artists Giotto di Bondone and Cimabue.
- Oratory of St. Francis: Close to the basilica you can find the sacred chapel, where St. Francis and his companions would pray. The frescoes inside depict scenes from his life.
- Rocca Maggiore: A grand medieval fortress, Rocca Maggiore serves as the highest point in Assisi for a panoramic view of the Umbrian region. Oftentimes you can find cultural exhibitions of sorts taking place inside the fort, but visitors are mainly attracted by the viewpoint and the opportunity to wander around the prominent, rising walls and towers.
- The central square: More medieval architecture can be found in and around the bustling town square. Experience the lifestyle of the locals and indulge in dishes specific to the region.
Tour to take: Assisi and the Gentle Hills of Umbria
This tour includes a transfer with an English-speaking driver, making the picturesque way to Assisi so much more enjoyable and efficient. You also have the option of choosing a local, licensed tour guide who will be able to delve into the histories of the sacred town, making sure that your trip does not just sweep over the sites without appreciating the true beauty and stories that make them as special as they are.
Travel from Rome to Naples
Moving toward the south of Italy, one of the best places outside of Rome to visit is Naples. With a sunny and warm disposition that is very particular to the city, Naples is the first eye-opener into a completely different impression of Italian life- nevertheless beautiful and energetic!
Location: Naples lies southeast of Rome by approximately 190 km.
How to get there: Naples makes one of the most popular day trips from Rome to experience a taste of the south, with it being so close by and easy to reach. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car and the high speed train that leaves hourly from Rome takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
What to do:
- Eat Neapolitan pizza: This is the only trip on this list that will mention food right at the top of the activity list. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and gives you an entirely new outlook on it than what Rome can offer you. There are a number of authentic pizzerias that will provide you with the pizza feast of your lifetime!
- Centro Storico of Naples: Explore the historic center of Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is wonderfully characteristic and crammed with history of one of the oldest inhabited cities of the world.
- Naples National Archeological Museum: Visit the museum to see exhibits and artifacts from Pompeii and Hernaculem, Greek and Roman sculptures and more.
- Naples Underground and its catacombs: The ancient passageways and underground systems that lie just below the surface of Naples are endlessly fascinating, telling stories about World War II and the Roman and Greek periods. There are also several ancient catacombs and burial sites to discover.
- Castel dell’Ovo: With the local folklore of a magic egg having been placed inside the castle by a Roman poet, the castle received its name which practically translates to ‘Egg Castle’. It stands on the seafront and is an iconic landmark to visit.
- The Lungomare: The aforementioned seafront is also called the Lungomare. Taking a stroll across it gives you a magnificent view of various sights including the infamous Mount Vesuvius volcano.
- Naples street food: Yes, we might as well end this list with a food-related activity as well! Some spectacular, mouth-watering street food can be found in Naples, from pocket-sized pizza fritta to the sweet, seahshell-shaped sfogliatella.
Tour to take: Authentic Naples Walking Tour
There is no transfer included for this tour as it is designed for those who have already made their way to Naples independently. However, a tour with an expert guide from Naples is the optimal experience. The streets in Naples can meander and mesh into one another, making it easy to get confused whilst exploring the city. This walking experience strategically guides you through the nooks and crannies of the famous street Spaccanapoli.
Travel from Rome to Pompeii and Amalfi
History lovers: Go to Pompeii.
For blissful romance: Cruise the sun-kissed coast of the Amalfi!
The ancient city of Pompeii is both destroyed and preserved through ashy remains after the disastrous volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It is one of the most fascinating ancient civilizations to discover in the world of archaeology, holding eery remnants of the past as you walk within the site.
On the other hand, the Amalfi coast beckons everyone through the sheer beauty of its turquoise waters, and the terraced, colorful towns that dot it in the midst of jagged and green cliffs and rock formations. This is one of the most globally romanticized areas of Italy.
Location: Both Pompeii and Amalfi coast are located to the southwest of Rome, located very close to each other and about 212 km away.
How to get there:
This particular excursion is very popular to do by car. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to get to Pompeii by car. From Rome to Amalfi, the journey can be expected to be around 3.5-4 hours.
By train you first need to get to Naples which is approximately 1.5 hours as well, and then take another train to reach Pompeii. To go to Amalfi you would first have to take a 30-40 minute train to Sorrento, and then transfer by taking a bus. There are no direct trains to the Amalfi coast.
What to do:
- Pompeii Archaeological site: This UNESCO World Heritage site has several remains of architectural structures such as the Temple of Apollo, the Lupanar brothel, the amphitheater of Pompeii, the House of the Faun and much more. It also has many beautiful frescoes and artworks, depicting the life and philosophies of the ancient Romans.
- Pompeii Antiquarium: A visit to the antiquarium layers on the histories of what you will learn at the archaeologial site, with many artifacts on display.
- Garden of the Fugitives: In what once used to be a garden, you will find the provoking plaster casts of a group of people who tried to seek refuge from the eruption..and ultimately, lost.
- Sorrento: Sorrento is sometimes considered to be the gateway into the Amalfi coast. The stunning town is best known for its lemon trees and the limoncello liqueur, one of the many things made from all those lemons!
- Positano: This postcard worthy town is probably the most famous destination along the coast, known for its colorful buildings on a cliff, terracing down to the main beach of the town called Spiaggia Grande.
- Ravello: This hillside town is known for two ravishing villas called Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, as well as for its colorful hand-painted ceramics.
- Amalfi town: Lastly, the scenic Amalfi town is characterized by its many staircases and alleys going up the hillside, the cathedral Duomo di Amalfi, more lemons, and the beautiful Cloister of Paradise, with Arab-Norman architectural influences.
Tour to take: Pompeii and Amalfi Coast Tour from Rome
What if you wanted to include both of these destinations into your one-day itinerary? It may seem impossible, but you can be drenched in Pompeii’s history and soak in the beauty of the Amalfi coast subsequently through a completely customizable tour. With transport being taken care of for each leg of the journey, you can choose where you want to be whisked off to, and what sites you would like an expert guide for.
We have also included the possibility of visiting Hernaceuleum, Pompeii’s neighboring city which was also destroyed by Vesuvius’s eruption, and you can choose which towns on the Amalfi coast to stop in for a meal, or to comb through their beautiful alleys.
