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How to Find the Train Line Contact Number in the UK

If you’re looking for a train line contact number in the UK, you’ve come to the right place. Finding the right number can be tricky, but with a few simple steps you can get the information you need quickly and easily. Here’s how:

Check Your Train Line Website

The first place to look for a train line contact number is on your train line’s website. Most train lines have a dedicated customer service page that lists their contact information. This is usually located at the bottom of the page or in the “Contact Us” section. If you can’t find it there, try searching for “contact us” or “customer service” on the website.

Look Up Train Line Phone Numbers

If you can’t find a contact number on your train line’s website, you can look up their phone numbers online. There are several websites that list phone numbers for different train lines in the UK, such as National Rail Enquiries and Trainline. You can also search for your specific train line on Google and see if they have a dedicated phone number listed.

Call National Rail Enquiries

If all else fails, you can always call National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50 (or +44 (0)20 7278 5240 from outside of the UK). They will be able to provide you with contact details for any train line in the UK.

Finding a train line contact number in the UK doesn’t have to be difficult. With these simple steps, you should be able to get all of the information you need quickly and easily.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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12 Realistic Day Trips from Rome by Train

Posted on Last updated: November 1, 2023

Home » Destinations » Europe » Italy » 12 Realistic Day Trips from Rome by Train

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Planning a trip to Rome, Italy, and are thinking about side trips? Keep scrolling for my list of the best day trips from Rome by train worth adding to your Italy itinerary!

This list of day trips from rome by train was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a trip to Italy’s capital and want to add some adventure to your vacation by taking day trips from Rome by train?

Too many visitors stay glued to the historic center and don’t do any day trips outside of Rome! Yes, there are enough things to do in Rome to last a lifetime and then some (it is the eternal city, after all) but the rest of Italy has so much to offer too.

UNESCO sites, ancient ruins, charming hilltop towns, and alternative places in Italy await outside of Rome’s borders.

This guide includes all the best day trips from Rome by train so no rental car is required. Yes, you don’t have to worry about navigating through lethal Roman traffic!

Discover all the inspiration you need to take awesome Rome day trips as well as essential logistical info to get to grips with the Italian rail network too.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Rome blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Rome with kids.

Popular Rome Tours/Activities

• Golf Cart Tour (this is a great way to sightsee without having to walk everywhere)
• Skip-The-Line Colosseum for Families Tour (definitely the way to go)
• Rome Gladiator School (seriously the best Rome activity for my kids)
• Family Vatican Highlight Scavenger Hunt (great way to keep kids engaged)
• Rome Tour for Kids with Gelato & Pizza (tasty tour for families)
• Flytographer photo shoot (they are easy to book are really affordable)

Kid-Friendly Rome Hotels

• Parlamento Boutique Hotel (easy walk to the Trevi Fountain and has free WiFi and A/C)
• Il Campo Marzio (easy walk to Trevi Fountain and Pantheon and has free WiFi and A/C)
• Charme Spagna Boutique Hotel (they have a family suite and have free WiFi and A/C)
• Hotel Scalinata di Spagna (offers free breakfast, A/C, and WiFi)
• Hotel Manfredi Suite in Rome (great location with lots of family rooms, free WiFi and A/C)

Want an epic Italy guide book? This is my favorite Italy itinerary and guide!

Tivoli Day Trips from Rome

Home to Hadrian’s Villa and several Roman aqueducts, visiting Tivoli is like visiting Rome with all the modern buildings stripped away. It’s one of the best day trips near Rome because you’re still close enough to see the city.

In fact, you’ll be able to appreciate the scale and majesty of Rome from Tivoli’s vantage point.

In Tivoli, you should also visit the Villa d’Este and the Aniene waterfall. For such a small place, there are lots to see and do here.

How To Get From Rome to Tivoli by Train

This day trip from Rome takes less than an hour. From Roma Termini station, take a direct Trenitalia RV train to Tivoli station. RV (Regionale Veloce) services are semi-fast regional trains so they’re affordable, you don’t have to book in advance, and they make fewer stops. 

This journey can be between 35 to 55 minutes depending if the service stops at fewer stations on the route. Around 30 trains follow this route every day and ticket prices start from €2.60. Bargain!

Day Trips from Rome to Pompeii

Whilst Pompei with one ‘i’ is the modern city near Naples, Pompeii is the UNESCO World Heritage Site on the outskirts. This is the city that was trapped under thick volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. 

If you’re interested in archeological sites, taking a Rome to Pompeii day trip by train is a bucket list-worthy trip for you. There’s enough to see here that you could literally spend all day exploring the site and the museum .

How To Get from Rome to Pompeii by Train

From Roma Termini , hop on a direct high-speed Italo Treno service to Napoli Centrale station. This journey takes around one hour and 15 minutes and trains traveling between Rome and Naples leave two to three times an hour.

Change trains at Napoli Centrale and get a regional MET service with Trenitalia to Pompei station. This journey is only 25 minutes and over 70 trains travel this route every day. It’s a 20-minute walk from Pompei to the ancient Roman town of Pompeii.

Tickets for this entire journey start from €14. Since it includes a high-speed train, you should book in advance to avoid disappointment and more expensive last-minute prices.

Florence Day Trips from Rome

You really should spend a few days in Florence to see all the highlights. But if you’ve only got time for a quick Tuscany day trip from Rome, one day is better than nothing!

Visit Michelangelo’s David, check out the Uffizi gallery , and walk over the postcard-perfect Ponte Vecchio bridge.

How To Get from Rome to Florence by Train

From Roma Tiburtina station, hop on a high-speed, direct Trenitalia FR train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella station. FR (Frecciarossa) is a high-speed service so you should book your tickets in advance to guarantee seats on this train.

Trains travel this route every 20 minutes and the journey is less than 90 minutes. Tickets are usually around €20.

Day Trips from Rome to Frascati

Looking for an ‘off the beaten path’ day trip from Rome by train? Frascati is nestled in the Alban Hills near the ancient city of Tusculum.

Here, you’ll find the ruins of ancient Roman amphitheaters and impressive palaces like the Villa Aldobrandini.

How To Get from Rome to Frascati by Train

From Roma Termini , get a direct REG (regional) Trenitalia train to Frascati station. This journey is only around 30 minutes and there are roughly 16 services per day. 

Tickets for this route can cost as little as €2.10. It’s perfect if you’re looking for budget day trips from Rome, Italy!

Venice Day Trips from Rome

If you have the stamina for an extremely long day, a Rome to Venice day trip by train is doable.

You’ll have just enough time to stroll around St Mark’s Square, visit the basilica, hop in a gondola, and sail into the Grand Canal before hopping on a train back to Rome. Get all my top Venice travel tips before you go!

How To Get from Rome to Venice by Train

From Roma Tiburtina , choose a high-speed, direct Trenitalia FR train to Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia . Despite the speed, this journey still takes just over four hours. This is why Venice is a great idea if you’re looking for longer, weekend trips from Rome!

Nevertheless, there are roughly 49 services a day so book the first and last trains of the day in advance to maximize your time. Average ticket prices for this journey are around €40.

Santa Marinella Day Trips from Rome

Santa Marinella is perfect if you want to enjoy Rome day trips by train to the beach. There are shallow, rocky coves that are perfect for younger kids to splash around and lots of soft, yellow sand to lounge on.

How To Get from Rome to Santa Marinella by Train

From Roma Aurelia station, hop on a direct REG Trenitalia service to Santa Marinella station. The length of this journey is around 40 minutes and they leave every 30 minutes. Tickets start from €4.60.

Roma Aurelia station is a little outside of Rome’s city center. You might need to take a connecting train from Roma Termini which is much more central.

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Day trips from rome to orvieto.

Orvieto is a city in Umbria perched on a rock cliff and easy to reach via train rides from Rome. It’s famous for the 13th-century Duomo di Orvieto cathedral, its Etruscan underground cave network, and many other archaeological sites.

How To Get from Rome to Orvieto by Train

From Roma Tiburtina station, take a direct RV Trenitalia to Orvieto station. This journey is just over an hour and there are around 20 services a day. Tickets start from €7.90.

Orvieto station is a 40-minute walk outside of the historic center so you might need to hop in a taxi if that’s a little too far.

Assisi Day Trips from Rome

The Birthplace of the famous Saint Francis of Assisi, this is another hill town in Umbria and one of the top excursions from Rome if you’re interested in Italy’s religious history.

The Basilica of Saint Francis houses a stone sarcophagus with the saint’s remains and there are beautiful frescoes painted on the walls too.

How To Get from Rome to Assisi by Train

From Roma Tiburtina station, get a direct IC Trenitalia service to Assisi . IC (InterCity) trains are high-speed trains that you must book in advance. This train journey takes just under two hours and roughly 18 services every day. Tickets start from €9.90.

Day Trips from Rome to Pisa

Pisa is a great alternative to Florence if you want to enjoy Tuscany day trips in Italy from Rome. Plus, it’s much easier to see the highlights of Pisa in one day .

Take funny photos with the famous Leaning Tower and explore the city’s lesser-known attractions too. Check out my tips for visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa with kids !

How To Get from Rome to Pisa by Train

From Roma Tiburtina , hop on a direct FA Trenitalia service to Pisa . FA (Frecciargento) services are high-speed trains and you should book them in advance to avoid disappointment. To be honest, there is not much difference between Trenitalia’s FR, FA, and IC trains aside from their names.

The length of this train journey is just over two hours and there are around 38 services a day. Ticket prices for this service are usually around €25.

Naples Day Trips from Rome

Famous for being loud and unpretentious, Naples is best explored in small doses which makes it a perfect one-day trip from Rome.

Your only goal when you visit Naples is to consume all the pizza you can and avoid getting knocked down by mopeds!

How To Get from Rome to Naples by Train

From Roma Termini , get a direct high-speed Italo Treno service to Napoli Centrale station. This journey takes around one hour and 15 minutes and trains traveling between Rome and Naples leave two to three times an hour. 

Book your ticket in advance as you need seat reservations to travel on these trains. Ticket prices are usually around €12 for this journey.

Day Trips from Rome to Cerveteri

One of the closer day trips outside Rome, Cerveteri is known for its ancient, pre-Roman necropolis. The results of many archaeological investigations in this area are now on display in the National Museum of Cerveteri.

How To Get from Rome to Cerveteri by Train

From Roma Aurelia , take a direct REG Trenitalia train to Ladispoli – Cerveteri station. This train only takes around 25 minutes and they run every 40 minutes. Tickets start at around €3 so it’s perfect if you are looking for quick and easy train trips from Rome.

Terni Day Trips from Rome

Near the Lazio border, one of the best day trips from Rome you could take is to the Umbrian city of Terni on the banks of the Nera River.

Though it’s nowhere near as big as Rome, it’s still a generously-sized city with lots of museums, churches, and piazzas to explore.

How To Get from Rome to Terni by Train

There are both REG and IC services by Trenitalia to Terni. As you’d expect, regional services are cheaper and you don’t need to book ahead but they stop at more stations and take longer. Intercity services are quicker, often a little more expensive, and you do need to book ahead.

Choose whichever service is best for you!

Either way, both direct services depart from Roma Tiburtina station and head to Terni station. This journey is less than an hour and there are around 24 services a day. The average ticket price for this train journey is around €10. 

Rome Day Trips FAQs

Train tickets in Rome, Italy can be purchased in several ways. You can buy them online through the Trenitalia or Italo websites, at the train station from the ticket counter or from automated ticket machines, or through travel agencies. The ticket machines and counters usually have instructions in English and accept credit/debit cards as well as cash. If buying at the station, it’s recommended to arrive early to allow enough time for purchasing tickets, especially during peak travel times.

High-speed trains in Italy, such as Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca, are faster and more expensive than regional trains, but offer more amenities such as comfortable seating, air conditioning, and sometimes a dining car. Regional trains are slower, make more stops, and are generally cheaper than high-speed trains. They often have basic seating with no reservations required, making them a more flexible option for shorter journeys.

Yes, you can use a credit card to buy train tickets in Rome, Italy. Most train stations have automated ticket machines where you can purchase your tickets using a credit or debit card. You can also buy tickets online through the Trenitalia or Italo websites using a credit card. It is recommended to have a chip and pin credit card for use in Italy as some machines may not accept magnetic stripe cards.

Train schedules in Rome, Italy are generally reliable, but delays can occur. It is always a good idea to check the schedule ahead of time and plan for some flexibility in case of unexpected delays or changes. Additionally, it is recommended to allow plenty of time for connections, especially if traveling during peak travel times or holidays.

In Rome, train platforms are usually listed on the departure boards found in the main hall of the train station. You can also check the information screens for any updates or changes to the platform number. The platform number is typically assigned a few minutes before departure, so it’s important to keep an eye on the boards and screens for any last-minute changes. If you’re unsure or need assistance, you can always ask one of the station attendants or staff members for help.

I suggest arriving at the train station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time for regional and intercity trains, and at least 1 hour before for high-speed trains. This allows enough time for security checks and to locate your train platform. However, it’s always best to check with the specific train company or station for their recommended arrival time.

Day Trips from Rome by Train Wrap-Up

With so many amazing possible day trips by train from Rome, it would be a shame to not explore another beautiful part of Italy by staying in one place. You can do it without checking in and out of accommodations and lugging your bags from city to city, too.

Take a chance on one of these suggestions for a fun day trip out of Rome and have an even more unforgettable time living la dolce vita !

Looking for more Italy travel resources ? Find out the most Instagrammable spots in Rome , my top Rome travel tips , how to spend 3 days in Rome with kids , things to do in Rome with kids , how to book a Rome photo shoot , kid-friendly Rome hotels , Venice travel tips , day trips from Florence , what Italy is known for , hidden gems in Venice , Florence travel tips , how to spend 10 days in Italy with kids , tips for visiting Italy with kids , best Rome tours for kids , and secret spots in Rome Italy !

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14 Best Day Trips From Rome

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There’s so much to do in Rome that you could easily spend months there without getting bored.

Sometimes you need a break from busy city life, though, or perhaps you’re using Rome as a base to explore other parts of Italy.

Its central location means there are plenty of rewarding day trips from Rome from charming hill towns like Orvieto to major cities like Florence and Naples.

When we spent a month in Rome we were sure we would make plenty of day trips. It turns out there’s so much to do in the city that we didn’t get around to any of our planned excursions. So we asked some other travel bloggers to contribute their favourite Rome day trips.

We received lots of great ideas and have divided them by distance from Rome from easy day trips like Ostia Antica to longer but worthwhile trips such as Rome to Pompeii.

You’ll find details of how to get there by public transport and suggested tours if you’d rather take it easy, save time on transport, and have someone else plan the details.

There’s a map of all these destinations and everything mentioned at the end of the post.

Italian Train Travel Tips

Video: best day trips from rome, rome day trips within 1 hour, day trips 1–2 hours from rome, day trips 2+ hours from rome, day trips from rome map, more rome posts.

Most of these destinations can be visited as day trips from Rome by train. You can check timetables and buy tickets online at Trenitalia.

Make sure you use Italian place names (i.e Roma not Rome and Firenze instead of Florence). 

The fast Freccia trains are cheaper if you book in advance, but reservations aren’t necessary for regional trains.

Just buy your ticket from the counter or self-service machine at the station and be sure to validate your ticket in the machines before you board.

Back to Contents

1) Ostia Antica

Visiting Ostia Antica, an antique settlement merely 30 km from the Eternal City, is one of the best day trips from Rome.

This antique city that in its glory days had 100,000 inhabitants was the main port of Rome and of major commercial importance.

Many travellers don’t know too much about Ostia Antica since its fame is overshadowed by Pompeii , another ancient city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius .

Nevertheless, as an urban construction, Ostia Antica doesn’t have to envy anything to Pompeii.

The ruins of Ostia Antica are situated along the main street, the 1 km long Decumanus Maximus.

Along this street you get to see the ruins of several important temples, the Capitolium (the largest temple of the city) and the one dedicated to Hercules stand out.

Other interesting sights include the public baths known as Termi Nettuno with lovely mosaics and the taverns where locals consumed wine.

The main highlight you can visit in Ostia Antica is the amphitheatre, also known as Agrippa’s Theater where once up to 4,000 spectators could attend the theatrical performances.

How to Get There: One of the great things about Ostia Antica is that it’s easily accessible from Rome by public transport. You simply need to take the Roma-Lido train from Roma Porta San Paolo station , and it will take you to Ostia Antica in 40 minutes.

Suggested Tours: Ostia Antica tour by train or Ostia Antica tour with pick up from your accommodation . 

Contributed by Gábor of Surfing the Planet

If you are looking for fun day trips from Rome, consider the Umbrian hill town of Orvieto , a beautiful little town brimming with history and great architecture.

It’s perched way up on a tufa rock and offers commanding views of the Umbrian countryside below.

You’ll be awe-struck by the magnificent Duomo di Orvieto , with its glitzy facade and gorgeous interior. It should be your first stop in Orvieto.

Then climb to the top of the Torre del Moro for lovely rooftop views. We visited on a cloudy drizzly day but were still blown away by the views.

Visit the Pozzo di San Patrizio , an engineering marvel. It’s built in a double helix design, so mules going up and down the well never had to cross each other. Ingenious!

Take a Orvieto Underground Guided Tour to discover the labyrinth of caves and tunnels created by residents going back all the way to Etruscan times. 

Once you have enjoyed the top sights of Orvieto, spend some time just strolling through the streets of the town, marvelling at the architecture, taking photos of charming doorways, and browsing the ceramics stores.

This was my favourite part of the day. Unlike some of the other places in Italy we visited, Orvieto was not extremely crowded.

Most of the folks we encountered on the streets were residents going about their business and it felt like we were getting a glimpse of the real Italy.

My favourite Orvieto restaurant: We had dinner at Trattoria La Palomba, and it was wonderful. If you order their flavorful pasta dishes, they will shave truffles over the pasta at the table if you so desire. Yum! It’s open for lunch as well.

How to Get There: Frequent trains run between Rome and Orvieto. Fast trains take about 50 minutes. Regional trains take about 90 minutes but are much less expensive.

When you arrive at the station in Orvieto, cross the road to take the funicular up to the town. From the funicular drop-off point, you can either walk into the town centre or take a local bus.

Suggested Tour: Orvieto and Assisi Day Trip from Rome .

Contributed by Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

3) Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli

In the second century AD, the Roman Emperor Hadrian wanted an escape from the hectic political life in Rome.

He chose Tivoli, about 30 kilometres from the capital, as the site for his retreat and it was here that Hadrian’s Villa was built.

As it turns out, it was built so well that Hadrian decided he preferred it to Rome and he made it his official residence and ruled the empire from here in his final years.

Because it was such an important site, it grew in size and grandeur. Hadrian’s Villa was much more than just the residence—it was a small city.

Today, you’ll find the remains of libraries, temples, barracks, and palaces. But, because it was ultimately a place of peace and serenity, you’ll also see gardens and pools and areas that were used for relaxation.

It takes a couple of hours to visit this World Heritage Site these days and explore it properly. It is spread out over a number of different connected areas.

While much of it is in ruins, you can easily get a sense of how it would once have looked and how opulent it must have been.

While you’re in Tivoli, I would suggest also visiting the Villa d’Este . This grand 16th-century villa is another World Heritage Site and also a highlight of the town.

How to Get There: The easiest way to get to Tivoli is by train. Direct trains leave regularly from either Roma Termini or Roma Tiburtina and take less than an hour.

From Tivoli train station , catch bus number 4. Alternatively, you can take the metro Line B from Rome to Ponte Mammolo and then catch the bus bound for Via Prenestina .

Suggested Tour:  Day Tour of Villa D’Este and Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli . 

Contributed by Michael of Time Travel Turtle

4) Villa d’Este in Tivoli

While Rome is famous for its majestic fountains, the highlight of all Roman fountains is outside the city centre.

Villa d’Este is a 16th-century villa, and it is famous for its many dramatic waterworks and fountains.

This villa is a significant place for landscape design. For the first time, water was treated differently to create desired effects.

You can find anything from dripping, gurgling, dramatic spouts and cascading waters within Villa d’Este’s many famous art installations, fountains, and statues.

Elevation changes within the villa’s grounds help to create a sense of mystery—you have no idea what lurks around the corner!

As you might imagine, the visit is highly popular, especially in the summertime, when visitors can cool off within the Villa’s grounds.

With meticulously manicured landscapes, as well as historical villa structures filled with Italian frescoes and artwork, it’s a must visit as a day trip from Rome.

How to Get There: To get to Villa d’Este from Rome, you will need to embark from Tiburtina Station towards Tivoli Station . This short train ride costs less than €10.

From Tivoli Station, Villa d’Este is within a 10–15 minute walk – follow the obvious signs for it. Many visitors combine a day trip with Hadrian’s Villa, which is located not far away from Villa d’Este.

Suggested Tour:  Day Tour of Villa D’Este and Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli

Contributed by Halef and Michael of The Round The World Guys . Photo by Lapping via Pixabay .

5) Bracciano

With only an hour train ride from Rome, you can get off at Bracciano train station and enjoy a lovely medieval town on the shores of its namesake lake.

Apart from the huge lake that also laps the surrounding towns of Anguillara Sabazia and Trevignano Romano , Bracciano is famous for its 15th-century Orsini Odescalchi Castle , an imposing mansion that dominates the view of its historical centre and was the venue of the wedding between Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes in November 2006.

The residence of several noble families and popes for centuries, now the castle is a must for anyone visiting Bracciano.

If you don’t feel like entering the actual mansion, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the lake from its garden.

If you are visiting in summer and want to swim in the lake, from Bracciano you need a taxi, or you can take the train for one more stop and get off at Anguillara, another small town right on the lake’s shores.

There’s also a path down to the lake at Bracciano , but it’s very steep and locals usually travel by car. 

Among the other attractions travellers can visit in Bracciano are the medieval Duomo di Santo Stefano cathedral, the cream-hued main religious building that went through several renovations throughout the centuries.

A day trip to Bracciano is a great escape of peace and relaxation from Rome’s hectic traffic, so you will love strolling around its winding narrow alleys and stopping at its panoramic viewpoint for lake views.

Looking for places to eat you might want to try L’Archetto (Piazza delle Magnolie 1), a restaurant and pizzeria close to the Odescalchi Castle or Ristorante Le tre Spighe (Via Girolamo Tamburri 4) serving local dishes made with quality and locally-sourced ingredients.

I would also recommend Pane e Olio Osteria (Piazza Mazzini 11), right in front of the castle.

How to Get There: Take the train from Rome stations, Trastever e, Ostiense (also metro line B), San Pietro or Valle Aurelia (also metro line A) towards Bracciano or Viterbo .

Suggested Tour: Bracciano: Half-Day Odescalchi Castle & Town Tour with Lunch

Contributed by Angela of Rome Actually

My favorite day trip from Rome is to Naples. Historically, Napoli has some important monuments to explore such as Castel dell’Ovo , Castel Nuovo , etc.

But the key attraction and the reason to take that visit to Naples can be summed up in one word—pizza.

Naples has been the home of Margherita pizza since 1830, and the first ever pizzeria can be found here in Naples and is still functional.

The Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba is widely believed to be the first pizzeria in the world and they surely do make pizza like a work of art.

The next round of pizza must be had at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele . This is where Julia Roberts shot Eat Pray Love and even if you forget that, a pizza and a beer here, it’s a promised trip to heaven!

If you still have some pizza space left, I’d highly recommend you try ‘ fried pizza’ , a special local pizza in Napoli. Also make sure you sample some limoncello , a local lemon liquor.

While many fear Naples’s reputation for crime, the city is full of warm and lovely people who will go out of their way to help you. Just take basic travel precautions and Naples will guarantee you a wonderful experience.

To wind up your trip, head to the coast and take a walk until you discover the glorious Mount Vesuvius staring at you. Naples will be memorable as an absolute beauty and the biggest pizza heaven!

How to Get There: Take the fast Frecciarossa train from Roma Termini to Napoli Central which arrives in just over an hour.

Suggested Tours: Pompeii and Naples small group tour from Rome or Naples Street Food and Sightseeing Tour (transport from Rome not included). 

Contributed by Parampara and Parichay of Awara Diaries

7) Florence

Even though Florence is located nearly 300 km north of Rome, it can easily be visited on a hassle-free day trip.

The quick train journey will leave you with plenty of time to visit the fascinating historic centre of Florence during your day trip.

Start your day by visiting the famous statue of David in the Galleria dell’Accademia museum .

Afterwards, take some time to admire the plethora of beautiful Renaissance buildings before visiting the Duomo di Firenze , the famous cathedral of Florence.

Later, head to Pizzeria Dante on the south bank of the River Arno for some incredible Tuscan pizzas.

Make sure to stop by the famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge on your way back into the city centre.

If you just want to explore the quick highlights of Florence, you could even extend your day trip and visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa as well.

How to Get There: For a Rome to Florence day trip take the high-speed Frecciarossa or Frecciargento trains from Roma Termini station to Florence , which take less than 1.5 hours.

Suggested Tour:  Florence and Pisa full day tour from Rome .

Contributed by Mike of 197 Travel Stamps

Umbria is one of the most picturesque regions in Italy, and it is possibly the least appreciated.

When people visit Rome, which is in the Lazio region, many take day trips to Tuscan towns such as Pisa .

This is a well-traversed route, and as an alternative, visiting neighbouring Umbria is a better option for those wanting to experience a town that is less visited.

Assisi is such a town and one that is certainly worthy of checking off a list.

It boasts one of the most unique basilicas in a country that has many, a town replete with the most beautiful cobbled streets, cafes, and small family-run shops.

There’s also a spiritual side that’s best experienced when hiking through Bosco di San Francesco di Assisi , a wooded area where the good saint himself took his contemplative walks.

There’s also, of course, the wonderful truffles and olive oil of the region served in just about every eatery. It’s one of my favourite day visits from Rome.

How to Get There: A train ride from Roma Termini to Santa Maria degli Angeli is about 1 hour and 45 minutes and drops passengers off at the foot of the hill town Assisi. One can opt to take a taxi or a bus from there, both inexpensive.

Suggested Tour: Assisi and Orvieto Full Day Excursion from Rome

Contributed by Andrew of Dish Our Town

Viterbo: most people outside of Italy have never even heard of it. At a mere 100 km from Rome but seemingly on a different planet, this small city is truly beautiful and deserves a visit.

It is the perfect place to escape when Rome gets too crowded with tourists or too hot during the summer months. 

The main point of attraction of Viterbo is the medieval city centre, almost entirely surrounded by incredibly well-kept walls.

For about 24 years in the 13th century, Viterbo was the seat of the Pope—the Papal Palace is one of the most interesting places to visit in the city.

Other places that deserve a visit are the Duomo of San Lorenzo and the Church of Santa Maria Nuova . San Pellegrino is the oldest part of town—it’s a maze of narrow cobbled alleys and beautiful small squares. 

Viterbo is famous for the Macchina di Santa Rosa , a very interesting festival held each year on the night of 3 September in honour of the protector saint of the city.

During the festival, a team of 100 porters carries an enormous, completely illuminated statue of papier-mache (a new one is made every few years) across the narrow and dark streets of the centre, which for the occasion is completely closed to traffic.

The next new machine is scheduled to parade the streets in September 2024.

Seeing the streets lighten as the saint approaches is quite a unique show—so much so that in 2013 the festival was added to UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. 

How to Get There: Reaching Viterbo from Rome is easy: there are frequent departures from Roma Aurelia train station and it takes around one hour and 45 minutes. 

Suggested Tour: Viterbo Private Walking Tour

Contributed by Claudia of My Adventures Across The World . Photo by Tama66 via Pixabay .

10) Lago di Bolsena

Lago di Bolsena (Bolsena Lake in English) is a quiet area located north of Rome.

You can easily reach this beautiful lake by train from Rome to Montefiascone , a quaint lakeside town.

Once you’re there get ready for some serious food tasting. The Tuscia Viterbese , a big area once called Etruria, includes three regions (Lazio, Tuscany and Umbria), and it’s famous for producing great olive oil and the Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone wine.

There are a number of ancient churches you can visit for free, like the Chiesa di San Flaviano . Here you will find the Johannes Defuk tomb.

This German bishop stopped here on his way back to Germany after a visit to Rome and fell in love with the famous wine Est! Est!! Est!!!… so much so that he decided to stay here and died not much later.

The local legends say that he took advantage of the gift of hospitality by drinking too much wine and was cursed by God for this.

While exploring the lake and taking pictures of the fishermen’s boats, make sure you stop for lunch at Mamma Pappa .

This tiny restaurant represents the area quite well by cooking traditional dishes with farm-to-table ingredients at low prices.

We were surprised by the huge servings, but these seem to be pretty common in the Lago di Bolsena area!

Suggested Tour: Another great activity is this ‘Park of the Monsters’ Tour in the nearby Garden of Bomarzo that includes time to explore the Lake.

How to Get There: Take the Trenitalia train from Roma Termini to Montefiascone . It will take you a little more than 1 hour 40 minutes to get there and tickets cost from €7.

Contributed by Danila of Travelling Dany  

11) Pompeii

Pompeii, the ancient Roman city is one of the most popular day trips from Rome. It’s a must for anyone who is interested in history and archaeological sites.

In AD 79, Pompeii was buried under 4–6 metres of volcanic ash and pumice during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius , which destroyed the whole city and killed around 2000 of its inhabitants.

Today you can walk around the ancient city and see the remains of the buildings and even the inhabitants.

The people of Pompeii’s bodies mutilated and left holes in the solidified volcanic mass, which made it possible for the archaeologists to create plasters of the victims by pouring liquid plaster into these holes.

These plasters have revealed how the locals looked during the last moments before they died. A mother who held her daughter hard in her arms, people in fetal positions, people who you can see were in severe pain, and even dogs and cats.

It’s very sad and horrifying to see, but at the same time, it was interesting to get an insight into what it was like to be there during the eruption.

Since you’re going there on a day trip from Rome, you are probably going to get hungry sooner or later. Near Pompeii, there are a couple of restaurants, but personally, I didn’t want to eat there since they were overpriced and touristy.

Since you have to change train in Napoli, I recommend you to go there instead and get something to eat before going back to Rome.

Eating pizza in Napoli is on many people’s bucket lists since it was in Napoli that the pizza was invented.

How to Get There: You can do a day trip from Rome to Pompeii by train. Catch the train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale , walk for about one minute to Napoli Piazza Garibaldi , and catch the train to Pompeii (towards Salerno). The journey takes around two hours from Rome to Pompeii.

Suggested Tours: Pompeii Day Trip from Rome or Pompeii Tour with Guide

Contributed by Christine of Christine Abroad  

12) Sorrento 

If you are looking to get out of the city for a day, hopping on the train to Sorrento is the perfect solution.

Located in the Bay of Naples , the shoreline view includes views of the Isle of Capri and Mount Vesuvius.

This town is full of breathtaking scenery, so don’t forget to bring your camera and snap a few memories on this day trip.

Once you’ve soaked in the panoramic views, make your way towards the Church of San Francesco to admire the arches which date back to the fourteenth century.

Occasionally the church hosts classical concerts in the evening during the summer months, a great way to absorb the region’s culture.

Be sure to take a leisurely stroll through old Sorrento and get lost in the narrow streets and alleyways.

There are plenty of quaint shops selling local goods such as leather goods, ceramics, and lemon branded souvenirs.

This part of town is also lined with a number of charming trattorias to enjoy a delicious meal al fresco.

No meal in Sorrento is complete without tasting a regional favourite, limoncello. This lemon-based liquor makes refreshing cocktails in the summer heat and is a must-do during your time in this charming town.

How to Get There: To get to Sorrento, you can catch the train from  Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale .

Here you will need to transfer to the Napoli Garibaldi station next door and purchase a ticket for the local Circumvesuviana train for the remainder of the journey to Sorrento (the train also stops at Pompeii). Total travel time is around two hours. 

Contributed by Jeanne of Pure Wander  

13) Wine Tasting in Tuscany

Wine tasting in Tuscany–can you imagine anything more idyllic?

Escape the hustle and bustle of Rome for a day to sip some wine in the Tuscan countryside, trading in city views for vineyard overlooks and a stop or two in a beautiful hilltop town of Tuscany.

To set off from Rome for a day of tasting wine and exploring vineyards in Tuscany, you’ll likely want to book an organised tour: not only will they handle transportation for you, but you also won’t have to worry about how much you drink (and Tuscan wineries tend to pour generously).

Even if you’re not typically someone who enjoys organised tours, consider making an exception for this. 

Tuscany is a region not to be missed, but its large size and relative distance from Rome make handing over the organisation to someone else for a day trip an excellent idea.

Tuscan wines are some of the best known in the world and range from Chianti to Brunello di Montepulciano (which is made in southern Tuscany, which is accessible from Rome!) to the famous Super Tuscans from the Bolgheri area.

All in all, there are 10 notable wine areas within Tuscany–and while you can’t explore them all on a day trip from Rome, you can sure get a solid start.

Suggested Tours: Small Group Tuscany Wine Country Day Trip from Rome  or  Tuscany in One Day Sightseeing Tour from Rome .

Contributed by Kate of Our Escape Clause

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy, and for a good reason. Not too many buildings in the world are leaning this much, and in addition to that, it’s a historical tower dating back to the 12th century.

After you’ve seen the tower and taken the traditional and “mandatory” selfies where you’re holding up the tower with your hands, I suggest going for a stroll in the old town before getting back to the train station.

Pisa is one of the oldest cities in Italy and used to compete with Genoa and Venice as a maritime powerhouse.

Pisa has lots of other historical sites to discover beyond the Leaning Tower. For example, there are more than 20 historical churches and several museums and art galleries to explore.

How to Get There:  The train departs from Rome Tiburtina and then you just make a quick change in Florence . The train takes 2 hours and 24 minutes, and from the central station in Pisa , you can walk or take the bus to the Leaning Tower.

Suggested Tour:  Small-Group Tour: Florence and Pisa Day Trip from Rome

Contributed by Alex of Swedish Nomad

There are so many places to visit near Rome that it can be difficult to decide which to choose.

If you only have a week in Rome I recommend taking at most one or two day trips—perhaps to a smaller hilltown like Orvieto and to Tivoli or Ostia Antica.

If you won’t be travelling around the rest of Italy, then prioritise what’s most important to you—perhaps a major historic site like Pompeii or the beautiful art city of Florence.

Italy is such a stunning country that you can’t go wrong with any of these places.

• 29 Unusual Things to Do in Rome
• The Best Things to Do in Trastevere, Rome  
• Testaccio, Rome Neighbourhood Guide
• 12 Best Places to Eat and Shop in Testaccio Market, Rome
• Eating in Italy: Dos and Don’ts
• London to Italy by Train: Everything You Need to Know

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15 Comments

Thanks for the article – can’t wait to put it to use. It appears per his website that Johnny Madge has moved to Valencia, Spain and now does his olive oil tours there

Reply ↓

Thanks for letting me know – I have updated the post.

Nice place In Italy

Nice article. You have covered everything nicely

My Compliments to the author. I am planning a summer trip to Italy this year and your article is very, very crisp (to put it crisply :). Thank You!

Erin, thanks for these tips. You’ve made a very comprehensive list of different trips from Rome. I would probably add that Castel Gandolfo and usually forgotten Nemi near lakes Nemi and Albano offer a very interesting short ride from the Eternal city. Pope’s summer residence, ghosts of Caligula’s floating palaces and that Aeneas’ tree make it an interesting historical experience. And also there’s Frascati with its medieval looks, villas and wine tours can be a nice addition.

Thanks for the suggestions Pavel! Frascati has been on our to-visit list for a while.

Rome is a place of great beauty and history. The places featured in this article are really amazing. Visiting Rome is a worthwhile experience, the city is simply superb… And also the article is well in detailed, good and useful tips for travelers especially for those first time visitors of Rome.

Loving your insights to Italy. Also have just read your informative information on packing. For someone who has backpacked and walked around the world for many years I can’t believe I didn’t know about compression cubes. How fantastic. You have now changed the way I will pack. Thanks so much. ???

Thanks, Helen and I’m glad you’ve discovered compression cubes now – they are so helpful!

Wow, nice guide trip in rome. Thank you so much!

This blog is no less a guide book for Rome. Loved reading it throughout. Very helpful.

Thanks Markus! More Rome posts coming soon!

I really appreciate the maps that you’re making. They’ll be *so* useful. I can follow in your footsteps! ;-)

I’m glad you find them useful Tony! I’m obsessed with making custom Google Maps when I’m planning trips!

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Four Really Easy Day Trips From Rome By Train 

by Sarah Wilson | Nov 30, 2021 | Europe , Italy | 2 comments

Rome is a fabulous city to visit. In fact, it’s an all-time favourite of mine. But sometimes, exploring a large metropolis can get a bit too much, and it’s nice to escape the city for a little bit. Here are four really easy to do day trips from Rome by train, ranging from just thirty minutes travelling time to a little over an hour. 

1 Ostia Antica. 

Ostia Antica is just a thirty-minute train trip from Rome.

Ostia Antica often referred to as ‘the poor man’s Pompeii’, is a really easy to do day trip from Rome by train. It might not be quite as well preserved as Pompeii, but it’s a lot closer to Rome, definitely worth a visit and a lot less crowded than both Pompeii and Herculaneum . 

Once the busy port city of Ancient Rome, the site of Ostia Antica is spread over 10,000 acres, so it is not a bad idea to arm yourself with an audioguide or map of the ruins before setting off. You can pick one up at the entrance. Did I do that? Of course not. Did I get lost? Absolutely! 

With or without a map, you will eventually find yourself in the Forum, the main square, which still has the remains of the Capitolium temple. 

Keep an eye out for the mosaics, the old shops and villas, even the ancient Roman latrines. It’s fun to let your imagination go wild as you picture life 2000 years ago.

The ancient brick theatre of Ostia is still used these days for summer concerts and performances.

Would I Recommend Ostia Antica?

Yes, it was fun. I loved getting lost amongst the ruins. I was there in August, and there was hardly anyone else around. It’s an easy half-day outing from Rome. Afterwards, before heading back to Roma, wander around the nearby town or even head to the nearby Ostia Beach. If you would prefer to have a local guide to show you around the site, check this half-day tour from Rome.

How Much Does It Cost To Visit Ostia Antica 

Under 18’s free 

By the entrance, you’ll find clean toilets and a vending machine selling water. There’s very little shade in the park, so if you haven’t brought any water with you, it’s a good idea to do so here. 

Opening Hours For Ostia Antica 

Open every day excepts Mondays,1 January, 1 May, and 25 December

From 25 October to the end of February 08:30 – 16:30 

March 08:30-17:15 

April to September 08.30-19:00

October 1-24 08.30-18:30 

The last entrance to the park is one hour before closing. 

Where To Eat At Ostia Antica 

In theory, there is a restaurant at Ostia Antica, but due to Covid restrictions, it was closed when I was there. 

I was going to head back to Rome for something to eat, but my stomach had other plans. ‘Eat now!’ it screamed. 

I came across the Arianna al Borghetto  just a five-minute walk from the main entrance to the park. 

I had a delicious Fettuccine Caserecce al Ragu for just €9. When you’re a solo female traveller dining alone in Italy, the waiters can be pretty flirtatious but in a harmless, fun way. When asked why does such a beautiful lady dine alone, I told him that my partner had recently passed away. 

‘Mamma mia!’ he declared. Nonna came out, slapped the waiter for ‘upsetting me’ and kept appearing with more food than I could eat, plus wine and dessert. I was even given fruit for the journey back to town. I love Italy!

How To Get To Ostia Antica From Rome 

First, ignore what Google Maps tells you. It wants to send you all over the place.

The easiest way to get there is to make your way to the Piramide Metro stop on Metro Line B, just four stops from Roma Termini Station in the direction of Laurentina. Then, follow the signs to the Roma-Lido line. Board the local train and get off at the stop Ostia Antica. Journey time 30 minutes.

On arrival, follow the signs to Ostia Antica or the other tourists. 

If you’re not keen on the idea of travelling independently to Ostia Antica and would rather know what you’re seeing, it’s also possible to arrange a tour out of Rome . 

2 Castel Gandolfo

Castel Gandolfo  is just a forty-five-minute train journey from Rome. 

Well, my day at Castel Gandolfo didn’t go quite to plan but was a lovely outing nevertheless. The town is known as the Pope’s City as its home to the Pope’s summer residence. So, I was looking forward to seeing the Papal Palace and its gardens, but it was closed! 

I had checked the website beforehand, which confirmed it was open. So I asked a local in my terrible Italian why was it closed, thinking maybe the Pope was in town. ‘Perché è, (because it is)’, he replied. Umm, not very helpful.

I later discovered that it was now only open at weekends when tourists are about. So please don’t believe what you read on their website! I had deliberately chosen to visit on a Friday because I wanted to avoid seeing other tourists. 

Anyway, it was lovely just walking around the pretty town. Cute piazzas, charming side streets and fabulous views looking down to the lake. 

Piazza della Libertà, the main square, is dotted with cafés and small shops selling souvenirs and local products.

Eventually, I spotted a table at a restaurant overlooking the lake with my name on it. I quickly checked online that the restaurant wasn’t one of those overpriced tourist traps- it wasn’t. Actually, the restaurant’s website  said it was closed Friday lunchtime. Obviously, the people of Castel Gandolfo are not very good at keeping their websites up to date.

So a change to my original plan, but I ended up having a lovely relaxing day just pottering about the streets, then enjoying a good old Roman pasta dish Cacio e Pepe, the original Mac and cheese. 

Where To Eat In Castel Gandolfo 

There are several restaurants in the main square and side streets, but as I couldn’t see the Pope’s place as planned, I thought, well, let’s aim for a decent lunch then with a view. 

And that’s how I found Ristorante Bucci . Gorgeous lakeside vistas and very reasonable prices considering the location. Think 14€ for a pasta dish with a fabulous view! 

How To Get To Castel Gandolfo 

Trains go from Roma Termini to Castel Gandolfo and take around 40 -45 minutes. Do allow enough time at Roma Termini station to buy tickets as those ticket machines can be temperamental. I bought a return ticket as was told you couldn’t buy train tickets at the Castel Gandolfo Station, but you can, but if you know you’re returning to Rome, you might as well get it in advance.

And don’t forget to validate your ticket before you board. Using the ticket to get through the platform barrier does not validate your ticket; who knew, eh? When in doubt, act dumb; that’s my secret go-to, as it comes naturally. Or use a train app like OMIO .

If you don’t fancy visiting Castel Gandolfo independently and risk not seeing the sites, there are plenty of tours on offer from Rome .  

3 Villa d’Este, Tivoli 

Tivoli is a forty minute to an hour train trip from Rome. It all depends on the time of day and train. 

Villa d’Este, Tivoli

The 16th century Villa d’Este  is famous for its terraced Italian Renaissance style garden. The villa and gardens are a UNESCO world heritage site.

Within the villa itself, most of the rooms have been restored. The detail and decoration of the artwork on the walls and ceilings within these rooms are impressive. 

Each room is filled with beautiful frescos. Notable rooms inside the villa include The Hall of Glory and The Hall of the Hunt. 

I was a little disappointed as I hoped to see the villa more as it was in the 16th century. The mansion is very much an art gallery. Yes, the art has been restored and was stunning, but it was hard to get a feel for what it was like to live there. Maybe that’s just me. 

However, most people come to the Villa d’Este to see the gardens.

Villa d’Este Gardens

The Villa d’Este Gardens are possibly the most well-known in Italy. 

The gardens are rather large, so you can easily spend a few hours exploring the various segmented areas. 

And there are a lot of fountains – 51 fountains. Some very flamboyant, others a mere trickle. Now, here’s the nerdy bit for those that like facts and figures – as well as 51 fountains, there are 64 waterfalls, 220 basins, 364 water jets, 398 spouts. All these are fed by 875 metres of canals and channels that work by the force of gravity and not pumps. Impressive, huh? 

What Else Is There To See In Tivoli

Other sites in Tivoli include Villa Adriana and Villa Gregoriana, but it was getting too hot that day for any more sightseeing, so will have to save those for another time. 

How Much Does It Cost To Visit Villa d’Este 

Adults €12 

Opening Hours For Villa d’Este

Open daily except Monday mornings, 1 January and 25 December. 

Hours vary depending on the month. For up to date times, please check their website . 

Where To Eat In Tivoli

Close to Villa d’Este, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Most come with good reviews. I went for a €15 menu of the day that included an antipasto, first and second course, dessert, water and wine at the Trattoria da Gabriella. The house wine was awful, and the food was average at best- not really selling it, am I? The food not on the set menu looked pretty good, and the waitress was really lovely, but would I go back? Nah! 

How To Get To Tivoli

Trains leave Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina and take around 40 minutes to one hour. Be sure to get off at Tivoli Station and not Bagni di Tivoli otherwise; you’ll have a very long walk (and before you ask, no, I didn’t.) And don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding. Or, for convenience, use an app like OMIO.

From the train station, it’s a 15-minute walk to Villa d’Este. Follow the signs and other tourists. 

If you prefer a tour to Tivoli from Rome rather than travel independently, check these out. 

4 Orvieto 

It takes just over an hour to reach Orvieto from Rome by train.

The gorgeous Umbrian hill town of Orvieto was my favourite of all my day trips from Rome. Perched on top of a steep tufa hill, it’s a charming place to visit. I would have loved to have stayed a little longer here, but the reason I was choosing quick and easy day trips from Rome by train was because I was housesitting for two lovely cats. 

Fortunately, Orvieto is small enough that’s it’s easy to fit in all the main highlights in a day- such as the impressive Duomo, St Patrick’s Well, the fabulous countryside views, stroll the ancient streets, and sample the delicious local cuisine. 

There’s a more detailed post right here for more information on what to see and do in this lovely town. 

Where To Eat In Orvieto 

There are quite a few restaurants on the piazza by the Duomo. All nice for a drink and people watching, but for delicious food, you need to head into the back streets. 

I had a fantastic homemade pasta with truffles and a chocolate and caramel mousse at the Trattoria La Grotta . Just a very short walk from the Duomo, but down a side street. 

How To Get To Orvieto 

Trains depart from Rome Termini and take around an hour and a quarter to Orvieto Station. Immediately opposite the station is the funicular that takes you up to the old town. If you are not comfortable with travelling independently to Orvieto, it’s also possible to organise a tour from Rome.

If you enjoyed this article on easy to do day trips from Rome by train, please share it with your friends.

Love Italy?

Check out these posts for other amazing places to visit around Italy.  Beautiful Towns and Villages in Umbria

Is Genoa Worth Visiting?

Ortisei Italy – A Great Base For Exploring The Dolomites Exploring Orvieto – A Fabulous And Easy Day Trip From Rome By Train How To Spend One Full Day In Bologna Why You Should Visit Ferrara – An Easy Day Trip From Bologna Varenna- The Perfect Base For Exploring Lake Como Two Days In Verona How To Spend One Full Day (and a little bit) In Milan Discover Spello – A Beautiful Hill Town In Umbria Diary Of A Solo Traveller On A Viking Ocean Cruise From Barcelona To Rome  Top Tips For Visiting Pompeii

Venice Islands in One Day

Visiting Herculaneum

The Best Things To Do In Sestri Levante, Italy

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Solo traveller, exploring the world one adventure at a time. Enthusiastic about trying new cuisines and uncovering hidden gems. Animal lover, often found house-sitting and making furry friends. Based in Malta, but always daydreaming about moving to Italy. Join me as I wander and discover the beauty of our world.

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Thank you Sarah for a wonderfully informative and friendly introduction to attractions nearby to Rome and easy to access. With a friend who has visited before, I’m going to Rome for the first time and very keen to take shortish excursions by train, so I found your personal experiences very interesting and useful, unlike much of the corporate blurb that’s foisted upon us. Again, thank you. I look forward to reading your future comments.

Thank you very much, I really appreciate your comments. Have a wonderful time exploring Rome.

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France and Italy by Train

Your Guide to Train Travel in France & Italy: Paris to Rome Trains & More

The 10 Best Day Trips From Rome by Train

The Italian capital contains enough sights and attractions to make any vacation burst at the seams. But if you’re keen to see more of Italy, there are some spellbinding day trips from Rome by train.

Archeological marvels, chocolate-box towns, and architectural jewels compete for attention. It’s a veritable menu of cultural delights with something to tempt every appetite. To give a flavor, we’ve selected 10 magical destinations just a short rail journey from the Eternal City.

1. Ostia Antica

Ostia Antica, an ancient port at the mouth of the Tiber, is a remarkably well-preserved relic that rivals Pompeii for inspiring awe. Founded in 620 BC, many vestiges of imperial glory survived the fall of Rome. Among them is an impressive theater, fragmented mosaics, and revealing frescoes housed in the museum and vast archeological park .

Another reason Ostia Antica qualifies as one of the best day trips from Rome is that you can poke around antiquity without the crowds found elsewhere in the city. Surprising, considering it takes just 26 minutes on the Ferrovie Urbane trains that connect Rome (Porta San Paolo) with the coast. Rome to Ostia Antica trains (Roma-Lido line) are frequent and fares inexpensive, elevating one of Italy’s most under-appreciated landmarks to unmissable for history buffs.

Rome to Ostia Antica Details

• Any journey on Rome Metro or Ferrovie Urbane trains costs €1.50 (BIT fare valid for 100 minutes from validation on any point-to-point trip). Purchase before boarding and use the Roma-Lido line. 
• To depart from Roma Termini, use Line B of the Rome Metro to Piramide before switching to the Roma-Lido line. If you take this route, buy two BIT tickets.
• Alternatively, consider a 24-72 hours Roma region train passes , starting from €7 for 24 hours.
• Roma-Lido trains depart Porta San Paolo for Ostia Antica every 15 minutes.
• Metro B (and B1) trains from Roma Termini to Piramide (switch to Roma-Lido trains here) depart every 7-10 minutes.
• Porta San Paolo direct to Ostia Antica takes 57 minutes on Ferrovie Urbane trains.
• Traveling from Roma Termini to Piramide by Metro takes 17 minutes. The onward journey by Ferrovie Urbane (Roma-Lido) trains from Piramide to Ostia Antica takes 51 minutes.
• Online Booking: Omio

Ostia Antica Tours

Small-group tours to ostia antica from rome.

Tivoli rightly steals attention when planning Rome day trips by train. The charismatic town boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites from golden eras separated by a millennium, the Roman Empire and the Renaissance. It’s a breathtaking couplet comprising the palace and fountain-filled gardens of Villa d’Este and a sprawling villa complex built by Emperor Hadrian (Villa Adriana) brimming with Roman artifacts. Oh, and there’s also the striking hillside gardens and waterfalls of the fetching Villa Gregoriana, a photogenic cherry on top of an unforgettable day trip.

Regionale trains connect Roma Tiburtina (Metro Line B) and Tivoli, including several fast and direct trains. Slower Regionale trains depart early morning, so the journey may be longer but they will help maximize time in Tivoli. Like many of the best day trips from Rome by train, you can stroll up and buy tickets before traveling. Try to leave early, as local Cattivoli buses or taxis are necessary to reach the villas.

Rome to Tivoli Details

• Prices: Regionale trains from Roma Tiburtina to Tivoli cost €2.60 – €3 (Ordinaria fares, second-class only). Buy in the station.  
• Frequency : 1-2 trains depart hourly from Roma Tiburtina to Tivoli.
• Duration : The quickest train journey from Rome to Tivoli is 36 minutes on direct services. Indirect services trundling through commuter stations in the Lazio region take up to 1 hour and 7 minutes.

Tivoli Tours

Small-group tours to tivoli from rome.

Orvieto is a medieval hilltop town imperiously punctuating the Umbrian skyline. An atmospheric jumble of winding streets and colorful piazzas bursts with character and tourist-friendly distractions. The centerpiece is a stunning Gothic cathedral , Duomo di Orvieto. Cars are virtually non-existent, the views over rolling cypress grove fields are magnificent, and the quaint streets invite leisurely exploration. Ensure your phone is fully charged, as the camera will surely be busy.

Although one of the longer day trips by train from Rome, intrepid travelers are rewarded with a rustic landscape detached from urban sprawl. It takes under 1 ½ hours to reach Orvieto station from Roma Termini . From there, the only option is to trek to the top alongside the droves inevitably disgorging from the train. It’s a picturesque journey, and trains return until late evening, allowing plenty of time to soak up the timeless atmosphere and savor an Umbrian specialty or two.

Rome to Orvieto Details

• Daytrippers can choose Regionale trains or Intercity trains. Early morning Regionale services are recommended to get the most from a day trip. 
• Regionale fares are fixed at €9.15 and can be purchased at the station.
• Intercity fares start €9.90 (second-class) booked up to 4 months ahead with Trenitalia . First class fares — with more elbow room — start at €11.90. Second-class Intercity fares on the day of travel start at €17.50. Both fares can be booked on Omio .
• Direct trains from Roma Termini to Orvieto depart at least every 2 hours. In addition, there are 3-4 Indirect services (one change) daily.
• The earliest Intercity train departs at 10.22. Slightly slower Regionale services depart from 06:06.
• Duration : The fastest services from Rome to Orvieto are Intercity trains that take up to 1 hour and 16 minutes. Slower but more frequent Regionale trains take 1 hour and 17 to 26 minutes.

Orvieto Tours

Small-group tours to orvieto from rome, 4. frascati.

Magnificent villas abound in genteel Frascati, famed as a summer retreat for well-heeled Romans. Crisp with character like its eponymous white wine, the compact hillside town is one of the most accessible day trips by train from Rome. A 17 th -century cathedral, a Roman archeological site, and 12 glorious Tuscan villas that survived World War II headline. Hit the cobblestones, drink in panoramic views of Rome, and stop for a glass of local fizz in a convivial osteria. 

Time your departure, and you’ll have time to visit a winery and discover why Frascati was cherished by Romans as “the golden wine,” despite its less-than-stellar reputation.

At just 30 minutes on a direct, fixed-priced Regionale service , train trips from Rome don’t come much quicker and easier. Buy at the station and hop on one of the hourly services; four stops later, you’ll disembark within walking distance of the Tuscolano Archaeological Park and splendid Villa Aldobrandini .

Rome to Frascati Details

• Prices: Regionale fares from Roma Termini to Frascati are fixed at €2.10, second-class only. Buy in the station or online at Omio .
• Frequency : Trains from Rome to Frascati depart hourly. Return services continue throughout the evening.
• Duration : It takes just 30 minutes to travel from Rome to Frascati by rail.

Frascati Tours

Small-group tours to frascati from rome, 5. fregenae.

It’s not all art and history when choosing Rome day trips by train. If you want to break out the sunglasses and swimsuits, head to the seaside resorts at Fregenae. City dwellers head there to cool down, catch some rays, and enjoy leisure activities like the energetic Parco Avventura or more grown-up fun at cocktail bars built for sunset romance. It is one of the best day trips from Rome by train when you need a break from the intensity of the Italian capital. Or a break from life itself.

Trains from Roma Termini and several other stations in the city depart every 30 minutes for Maccarese-Fregene . Maccarese is a town adjacent to Fregenae (aka, Fregene). Pack your suncream and roll up to the station to buy fixed-fare tickets for one of the most laidback places to visit near Rome by train. Allow time to walk or use the Cotral bus to reach the beach, approximately 4 miles from the station.

Rome to Fregenae Details

• Prices: Regionale trains from Roma Termini to Maccarese-Fregene are fixed at €2.60. Purchase in the station or online at Omio . 
• Frequency : Rail services from Rome to Fregenae depart every 30 minutes.
• Duration : It takes just 29 minutes to travel by rail from Rome to Maccarese-Fregene.

6. Civita di Bagnoregio

The hilltop village of Civita di Bagnoregio is a jaw-dropper. Impossibly perched atop an isolated volcanic rock, the evocative landmark was settled 2,500 years ago by Etruscans. The Porta Santa Maria gate still stands as evidence of Etruscan ingenuity. While the 7th century San Donato Church remains a stirring sight rising above the rooftops.

Once emblematic of “dying villages” in Italy, 12 people manage to live there today, reaching the outside world via a single suspended path. However, those numbers swell with day trippers, many there via train trips from Rome.

Like several evocative day trips by train from Rome, a bus trip completes the journey. Head to Orvieto (a destination already on our list) on fast regional trains before hopping on a Cotral bus to Bagnoregio (try not to miss the late return journey at 6.20 pm). Then pay the toll and savor the dizzying walk into the village.

Rome to Civita di Bagnoregio Details

• Fares from Roma Termini to Orvieto are fixed at €9.15. A couple of Intercity services in the evening can be cheaper when booked ahead but leave too late for Rome day trips by train.
• Bus fares are €2 for a single journey. The toll is currently €5.
• Frequency : Trains from Roma Termini to Orvieto depart every 1-2 hours. Onward buses are less frequent, departing 9-10 times daily, with no Sunday service .
• Duration : Budget 1 hour 17 minutes for the train journey. Budget up to 1 hour for the bus ride, plus time for switching transport.
• Online Booking: Book both train and bus legs in one app using Omio .

Civita di Bagnoregio Tours

Small-group tours to civita di bagnoregio from rome.

Assisi, an imposing hill town in Umbria with roots predating ancient Rome, is a magnet for visitors and unquestionably one of the best day trips from Rome by train. Birthplace of patron saint Francis, the town is layered with character and architecture through the ages. The showpiece is the fabled basilica named after its famous son , dominating the skyline. The moderately-sized town greedily boasts two castles and a Roman amphitheater (of sorts). In short, the train journey from the Italian capital is merely the prelude to a dazzling journey through time.

Getting there by rail is a cinch. But plan ahead to maximize your time. Take direct Regional Veloce trains rather than slower one-change services, and you’ll arrive in Assisi in a little over 2 hours. Regional fares are fixed, so no need to reserve. The trains are clean and modern but without many facilities; bring your own snacks to enjoy the delightful cruise through the Umbrian countryside.

Rome to Assisi Details

• €12.70 is the fixed fare from Roma Termini direct to Assisi. No need to reserve, but check Trenitalia for departure times.
• A couple of Intercity trains also ply the route. Booked at least 2 weeks ahead for a ticket starting at €7.90. Intercity fares cost from €24 for last-minute purchases. 
• Frequency : There are 5-6 daily direct rail services from Rome to Assisi. A similar number of slower services requiring one-stop are available.
• Duration : The fastest trains from Rome to Assisi get the job done in 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Assisi Tours

Small-group tours to assisi from rome.

Pompeii needs no introduction. The Roman city is part historical relic, part lesson in the power of nature. It’s an absorbing destination , forever paused in horror and history. Is Pompeii accessible in one day? “Naturalmente,” otherwise it wouldn’t be on our list of Rome day trips by train.

The Rome to Pompeii train journey is a two-hander. First to Naples, switching from Napoli Centrale to Napoli Piazza Garibaldi (9-minute walk) for a local Metropolitano service. The local service is a fixed fare (€3) and takes 37 minutes to deposit travelers almost at the gates of Pompeii.

A medley of rail tickets is available to reach Naples. Regional trains are cheaper, especially if buying late, but take twice as long as high-speed services. Superior Frecce trains, including the classy Frecciarossa 1000, take around 1 hr 15 m. Do yourself a favor and book one of these services. Fares are low when booked early, but the comfort levels are a cut above. More importantly, you get more time to explore the ruins of Pompeii.

Rome to Pompeii Details:

• Slow regional services cost a total of €14.80 from Rome to Pompeii.
• Tickets for high-speed Frecce trains from Roma Termini to Pompei via Naples start at €24.90 for second-class Frecce  Standard. Frequent Special Frecce fares can be as low as €14.90. Book up to 4 months before travel with Trenitalia for the lowest fares, with prices rising as seats disappear. Various upgrades are offered on Frecce trains, often for just a few Euros.
• If you plan to stop in Naples, fares from Naples to Pompeii are fixed at €3. Book your trains between Rome and Naples and buy that ticket at the station for flexibility.
• Frequency : 1-2 high-speed trains travel between Rome and Pompeii. Napoli Piazza Garibaldi to Pompeii trains departs twice hourly.
• Duration : Overall, you can travel from Rome to Pompeii by train in 2 hours and 10 mins, including changes in Naples.

Click here to read our full article on traveling from Rome to Pompeii…in just a day!

Pompeii Tours

Small-group tours to pompeii from rome, 9. florence.

The Renaissance jewel of Tuscany is one of the most captivating places to visit near Rome by train. The entire historic center is UNESCO protected and a sensory motherload of cultural wonders, from the fairytale Ponte Vecchio to the artistic pearls at the Uffizi Gallery . Mark Twain once wrote that the “city of dreams, is a sight to stir the coldest nature”. Once again, he nailed it.

As you would hope, train links between Roma Termini and Florence (Firenze S.M. Novella is the station you want) are excellent. Competing high-speed services from Trenitalia (Frecce class) and Italo keeps prices low. The direct journey (often only stopping at Roma Tiburtina) takes under 100 minutes, and comfort is high as you pass through the pastel landscapes of Tuscany. You couldn’t ask for more from one of the best day trips from Rome by train.

Rome to Florence Details

• Slick Italo high-speed trains are the best value. Book up to 4 months ahead and get fares from €21.90 for a Low-Cost Smart (i.e. economy) seat. Look out for eXtra MAGIC discount fares as low as €10.90. Upgrade options abound.
• Trenitalia Frecce trains start from €27.90 for standard Super Economy booked up to 4 months before travel. Discount fares (Special Frecce) are frequently available from €14.90. Plenty of upgrade options.
• Book online with Omio for either Italo or Trenitalia services. There isn’t much to separate the services, as both they almost match each other for speed and comfort, which are top-tier by global standards.
• Frequency : 4-6 services depart hourly from Roma Termini to Firenze S.M. Novella across Italo and Trenitalia high-speed services.
• Duration : Direct high-speed trains from Rome to Florence take under 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Florence Tours

Small-group tours to florence from rome, 10. castel gandolfo.

You barely have to leave Rome to reach picturesque Castel Gandolfo in the Alban hills above Lake Albano. Aside from a cooling green haven made for nature and lakeside activities, the town is known for its papal palace that shaped the character of the quaint strung along the hilltops. Now a museum , the Pope’s summer hangout is a compelling reason to escape the Roman cauldron and savor a scenic slice of Lazio good enough for the supreme pontiff. 

A big reason why Castelo Gandolfo works when looking at day trips by train from Rome is the sheer convenience. A regional service departs approximately every hour, takes under 45 minutes, and costs less than a cappuccino. It is an easy day trip. And a charming escape, a world away from Rome.

Rome to Castel Gandolfo Details

• Prices: €2.10 for a fixed-price Regional train from Roma Termini to Castelo Gandolfo. Buy at station before boarding. Check Trenitalia
• Frequency : Approximately 1 train departs hourly from Rome to Castelo Gandolfo. Check Omio for departure times.
• Duration : Rome to Castelo Gandolfo by train takes 44 minutes.

Castelo Gandolfo Tours

Small-group tours to castelo gandolfo from rome, so, what are the best day trips from rome by train.

It’s really up to you, and how you’re feeling. But, geez, if push comes to shove, here’s where we stand: We feel strongly that no trip to Rome is complete without seeing Ostia Antica. Additionally, if your Italian adventure doesn’t include a foray into Tuscany or Umbria, also “must-sees” in our book, then we humbly submit that Civita or Orvieto should top your “day trips from Rome” list.

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11 Best Day Trips from Rome

Last updated on October 3, 2023 by Becky Griswold and Alex Schultz - 6 Comments

They don’t call Rome ‘The Eternal City’ for nothing – the Italian capital is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in Europe. It gave the world the Roman Empire and all the culture and infrastructure that came with it – roads, aqueducts, it’s all thanks to Rome! Then there was the Renaissance, making today’s Rome a global city known for its art and architecture. There’s a treasure trove of attractions on offer here.

Map of day trips from Rome

But there are also plenty of day trips to get involved with from this storied city. From seeing where Ancient Rome’s port city of Ostia once stood to the beautiful villas at Tivoli, you can even see Florence or the stunning island of Capri. Check out the following day trips from Rome .

11. Anzio [SEE MAP]

Anyone interested in military history might want to visit Anzio, an ancient coastal city 52 km (32 miles) from Rome. Battles were being fought here as early as the fifth century BC. In more recent times, Allied forces launched their campaign to conquer Italy with an amphibious landing in January 1944. Photos of the landing and battle can be found at the Beachead Museum. Travelers may wish to visit the cemeteries where British and American troops are buried.

In-between battles, Anzio is a fishing port and ferry terminal to the Pontine Islands. The city is a good place to see old Roman villas or a Roman tower as well as WWII foxholes at Riserva Naturale di Tor Caldara. The aroma of seawater may lure visitors to the port where they can see the fishing fleet and eat the city‘s famous fish. Sun seekers can spend time on sandy beaches, including the popular Blue Bay.

Getting to Anzio

• Lying just an hour away from Rome by train, getting to Anzio by public transport couldn’t be easier. From Roma Termini, you simply need to hop on a direct train and sit back and watch the world pass by your window. Trains usually run once an hour, although, at peak travel times, they run as frequently as every half hour. Tickets can cost as little as three euros, and once you arrive at Anzio, you’ll find yourself just a ten-minute walk to the center of town and its beautiful port.
• If you rent a car, driving to Anzio from Rome isn’t a bad idea; you’ll pass some delightful scenery, and this journey too takes just over an hour. From the centre of Rome, head directly south on the SS148, which will take you through a wonderful nature reserve. At Aprilla, turn off onto the SS207 – from there, you’ll reach Anzio in no time at all. Another option is to follow the Via Cristoforo Colombo until you reach the glittering Mediterranean. From there, take the SP601 all the way down the coast to Anzio, with magnificent sea views accompanying you on your journey.

10. Naples [SEE MAP]

Gritty Naples is a city of superlatives. It is the third largest city in Italy . It was the most bombed Italian city in World War II. It has the largest historic city center in Europe, most appropriate since it is one of the longest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back 2800 years. With over 400 ancient churches, it is one of the most Catholic cities in the world.

Naples Cathedral is the main church; each September it honors the city’s patron saint, Saint Januarius, with a miracle: The saint’s dried blood becomes liquid when near his relics. The city’s main square, the Piazza del Plescito, is home to Italy’s oldest opera house. Naples also is known for its many castles, including Castel Nuovo, a city landmark, and the 13th century Saint Elmo’s castle, built in the shape of a star. Naples has great museums such as Naples National Archaeological Museum with one of the biggest collections of Roman Empire artifacts.

Getting to Naples

• The most convenient and quickest way to travel between the two cities is undoubtedly by train; it can take as little as 75 minutes to get to Naples from Rome . This, however, is for the fast train and tickets can cost up to 60 euros. The slower trains are cheaper at around 20 euros a ticket, but these can take between two to three hours to arrive at Naples’ Centrale Station. It is a very well-serviced route, and at any time of day, there will be at least a couple of trains departing from Roma Termini railway station. Once in Naples, you’ll find yourself just a short walk from all the main sights that you’ll want to check out.

9. Castelli Romani [SEE MAP]

Unknowing travelers might think Castelli Romani referred to a single old Roman castle. They’d be wrong. Castelli Romani is a collection of 13 picturesque towns in the Alban Hills just a few miles south of Rome. Ancient Romans went there to escape the hustle and bustle of the city; modern Romans still follow that tradition. One of the towns is Castel Gandolfo, one of Italy’s most historic towns and the most popular of the Castelli Romani towns. It also is the pope’s summer home; a former palace is now a museum. The region offers scenic caldera lakes and lush forests punctuated with vineyards. It is one of Italy’s top wine-growing regions. This is where Frascati, which can be white or red, comes from; for centuries it’s been a very popular wine among Romans. Don’t pass up a chance to drink Frascati where it’s made, the village of Frascati.

Getting to Castelli Romani

• Driving is the easiest way to visit the Castelli Romani, as they lie nestled amidst the Alban Hills and the only viable way to get from one to the other is by car. Castel Gandolfo, for instance, lies just 40 minutes away from the center of Rome. To get there, you merely need to stay on the SS7 heading southeast out of the city, which takes you directly there. From here, you can visit the beautiful vineyards and villages which lie around nearby Lake Nemi. Another option is to follow the SS215 out of Rome to the marvelous Frascati, which only takes half an hour. From there, you can head to any of the other nearby Castelli Romani.
• Famed for its wineries and vineyards, many visitors to Rome opt to take a guided tour of this region to learn more about the history and practice behind winemaking, as well as to sample some of the delicious wines. Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll visit the impressive centuries-old Principe Pallavicini estate, which is located amidst some absolutely stunning scenery full of olive groves and beautiful vineyards.

8. Ostia Antica [SEE MAP]

Located at the mouth of the River Tiber, Ostia was Rome’s seaport, but, due to silting and a drop in sea level, the site now lies 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the sea. It is famous for the ancient apartment buildings (insula) that are very well preserved.

You can explore these buildings to one story in height, with narrow stairways and corridors leading to small rooms. There are also the remains of more wealthy houses, such as the House of Cupid and Pysche, with very rich marble decorations.

Getting to Ostia Antica

• From the center of Rome, Ostia Antica makes for a very convenient day-trip; you can easily get there by public transport in less than an hour. At Roma Termini, you take a short metro journey to Piramide, where you then take a train in the direction of Cristoforo Colombo. Once you arrive in Ostia Antica, you’ll see signs pointing you to the magnificent ruins – it’s only a short walk to the entrance.
• Another option that is well worth checking out is to take a guided tour of the impressive site. With an expert guide on hand, you’ll come away having learned loads about Ostia Antica’s fabulous ruins. The walk takes you around all the main sights, such as the Forum, Amphitheater and Baths of Neptune.

7. Florence [SEE MAP]

Visitors will have to make some tough choices since only one day in this city isn’t long enough to see everything . A must-see is the Duomo, Florence’s cathedral that is about a half-hour walk from Santa Maria Novella train station. Comfortable walking shoes are a must since cobblestone streets are narrow and uneven.

The world-class Uffizi art gallery showcases the best Italian Renaissance artists Travelers can ogle the over-the-top wealth of the Medici family at the Pitti Palace or just wander the streets in the historic center seeking statuary, such as the replica of Michelangelo’s David (the original is at the Accademia museum). End the day nibbling a gelato cone and walking across the Ponte Vecchio over the Arno River.

Getting to Florence

• Although it may look quite far on the map, it can take a surprisingly short time to get to Florence by train from Rome . In fact, the journey is actually amongst the most popular in the whole of Italy, as both commuters and travelers make their way between the two every day. Consequently, it is a very well-serviced line; there are three or four trains per hour, so you’ll never find yourself waiting long. From Roma Termini, it can take as little as 90 minutes on the fast train, although these tickets are obviously more expensive than if you take the slow train. Once you arrive at Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, it is only a short walk to the gorgeous historic center.
• To make the most of your time in Florence, it’s not a bad idea to take a guided tour, as this will take you around many of the main sights in the city with minimum hassle. With stops at il Duomo, the Accademia Gallery, and Piazza Santa Croce included on the tour, you’ll certainly see as much of Florence as is possible in one day.

6. Assisi [SEE MAP]

A trip from Rome to the lovely hill region of Umbria will bring you to the medieval town of Assisi where you can explore significant religious sites, Roman ruins and artistic beauty. The town’s main attraction is the Basilica of St. Francis, the eternal resting place of Italy’s patron saint.

Most of the cobblestone streets in town lead to this beautiful cathedral where you can admire its exquisite architecture and interior ceilings and walls that are embellished with stunning frescoes. Surrounding the basilica, you will discover medieval houses and shops that are well worth a look.

Other sites not to miss include Piazza del Comune, the town center, with its old clock tower, the Church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva with its Roman columns, and St. Claire’s Basilica, which offers scenic views of the valley below.

Getting to Assisi

• With regular trains running between Rome and Assisi, the medieval town can take less than two hours to reach. On the way, you’ll pass through some stunning scenery; there’s a reason it is known as Italy’s ‘green heart.’ While some trains take you directly to Assisi, most train journeys involve a transfer at Foligno. As it is a small station, however, it is a very stress-free and easy connection. Check the train timetable carefully before heading to Assisi, as the slower trains can take up to three hours to get there.
• While driving to Assisi takes roughly between two and three hours and is a lot more effort than taking the train, this does mean that you can stop off at any of the beautiful scenes that you come across. Heading northwards from Rome, take the E35 and E45 until you reach Orte, where you will turn off and head towards Terni before continuing along the SS3. Once past Foligno, simply follow the signs to Assisi.

5. Orvieto [SEE MAP]

While in the Umbria region, you might also want to visit the charming town of Orvieto situated majestically on a big chunk of volcanic rock called tuff. Its impressive cathedral, the Duomo, which is considered one of Italy’s finest with its stunning mosaics and frescoes, influenced Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel.

It would certainly be well worth the time to explore the city’s labyrinth of underground tunnels. Carved 3,000 years ago from volcanic rock by the Etruscans to provide escape routes for the nobility, these elaborate tunnels contain grandiose rooms, stairs, cisterns and quarries.

The city’s oldest church, San Giovenale, is also worth a visit as well as both the 14th century Albornoz Fortress and St. Patrick’s Well, which was uniquely designed to supply water for the city during war times.

Getting to Orvieto

• From Roma Termini, it usually takes about 75 minutes to reach Orvieto by train. Along the way, you pass through some lovely scenery, which makes the journey flash by. Trains aren’t super regular, however, so if you miss one, you may find yourself waiting an hour until the next one. Tickets are very cheap and can go for as little as eight euros.
• Another option is to take the car to Orvieto; it takes a similar amount of time as by train, although you do then have the luxury of stopping off at nearby Lago di Bolsena for a lakeside lunch. From Rome, you need to head north on the E35 and follow it for around an hour until you see signs to Orvieto.
• A popular option amongst visitors to Rome who are pressed for time is to take a guided tour to both Orvieto and Assisi, combining the two beautiful towns into one memorable day trip. This enables you to see a number of amazing sights – such as Orvieto Cathedral and the Convent of Santa Chiara – without having to spend two days away from all of Rome’s incredible attractions.

4. Tivoli [SEE MAP]

All it takes is a one-hour trip from Rome to the small town of Tivoli to experience two of the most spectacular sites in the Lazio region, Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este. Most tourists like to combine both of these villas into one instead of two day trips from Rome.

A history lover’s paradise, Hadrian’s Villa features an impressive, sprawling complex of 30 ancient Roman structures that were built during the second century by the Emperor Hadrian as a retreat from the busy capital of Rome.

Here, visitors can enjoy a glimpse into the lavishness of ancient Rome when you walk among the 250 acres of marble pavements, palaces, theaters, libraries, baths, temples and private quarters that once housed royal guardsman, attendants and slaves.

If you enjoy formal gardens, Villa d’Este is a must-do. Located on the opposite side of town from Hadrian’s Villa, this splendid estate features a lovely mansion, but it is the gardens that most visitors come to see.

What makes these historic gardens so special is the Renaissance method of integrating unique water works and artistic features into the beautiful landscape. Stroll along winding and maze-like paths that offer a pleasant surprise at every turn like musical fountains, gorgeous statues, frescoed rooms and breathtaking waterfalls. If you can tear yourself away from the gardens, you will also find cozy little restaurants and boutiques along the narrow streets of this charming villa.

Getting to Tivoli

• By train, it can take as little as half an hour to reach Tivoli from Rome, although many options will take around an hour to an hour and a half. The journey, however, is very cheap and a ticket can cost you less than three euros one way. While Villa Gregoriana is located just a short walk away from Tivoli train station, you’ll need to take a bus if you want to visit the other two villas, which are well-signposted. This does make it tricky to visit more than two out of the three on a day trip to Tivoli.
• Indeed, many people decide to take a tour to both Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este, which enables them to explore the ruins without having to worry about figuring out bus times. The guide’s commentary will tell you all about the amazing villas and their rich history.

3. Capri [SEE MAP]

A day trip from Rome to the beautiful island of Capri requires a full day, but it is well worth it. Capri offers several fantastic attractions, but the one not to miss is the Blue Grotto, a cave that reveals a brilliant reflection of blue and emerald-colored water.

The cave can be accessed by a short boat ride from Marina Grande. Other attractions include Mount Solaro, Capri’s highest point. A chair lift takes visitors to the top of the mountain which offers stunning views of the island and sea. The lovely Villa San Michele in the town of Anacapri is also worth a visit with its stunning gardens, Phoenician steps, cafe and museum.

Getting to Capri

• People wanting to visit Capri from Rome first need to head to Naples, where they can take a ferry to the idyllic island. From Roma Termini, it can take as little as an hour and fifteen minutes to reach Naples if you take the fast train. Slower trains, while cheaper, can take up to three hours, but this will severely limit how much time you have in Capri. Once in Naples, take a metro or taxi to Piazza Municipio. Ferries regularly leave from nearby Molo Beverello , and the high-speed ones take 40 minutes to reach Capri.
• If all that sounds a bit complicated, you may want to look into taking an organized trip to Capri; this is a hassle-free way to see incredible sights such as the Blue Grotto and sweeping views of the Bay of Naples. From Rome, the tour takes you on a scenic bus journey to Naples before you take to the waters and head off to explore what Capri has to offer.

2. Amalfi Coast [SEE MAP]

Stunning scenery is what the Amalfi Coast is all about: picturesque towns built on hills and cliffs that drop off into the sea below. Some towns are built right up to the water, with craggy mountains as the backdrop. No wonder the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations.

The region is popular with celebrities, especially Positano with its glitzy boutiques. Perhaps they fell in love with the region while filming movies and TV shows here; that’s very easy to do here. It’s also easy to fall in love with limoncello, a liqueur made from Amalfi lemons.

The Amalfi Coast is dotted with quaint villages , each with at least one old church worth visiting and some with palatial Roman villas. Located between the gulfs of Naples and Salerno , there’s only one very scenic road through the region, but the towns are easily accessible by ferry.

Getting to Amalfi Coast

• For visitors looking to explore the glorious Amalfi Coast while in Rome, Positano is a great place to head to that is well-serviced by bus from Naples. After taking a train from Roma Termini to Naples Centrale Station, which can take anywhere between an hour and fifteen minutes to three hours, it is just a short walk to Naples Garribaldi, from where the bus departs. It takes around an hour to get to Meta, where you then change and take a half hour bus ride to Positano. While this may sound like a long journey, the views from the bus over the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius mean that it passes by very quickly.
• To make the most of your visit to the Amalfi Coast, a tour may be the best option. It combines a visit to Pompeii with a stop at Positano, and you even have the chance to go for a swim in the enticing waters of the Mediterranean.

1. Pompeii [SEE MAP]

No visit to Rome would be complete without a day trip to Pompeii . You can walk among the streets of this ruined metropolis to learn about its history and see what remains of 2,000 year old shops, restaurants, residential homes, baths and brothels as well as political, religious and commercial centers.

There are also plastered body casts of actual people who died in the catastrophic volcanic eruption of 79 AD. The National Archeological Museum of Pompeii contains a fascinating collection of artifacts and art works that were excavated from the Pompeii site.

Getting to Pompeii

• By high-speed train, it takes just over an hour to get to Naples from Rome. From there, it is relatively easy to get to Pompeii using public transport. At Naples Centrale station, take the Circumvesuviana train towards Sorrento. The train journey to Pompeii Scavi station only takes half an hour, and you’ll see the entrance to the ruins as soon as you exit.
• For visitors really looking to gain a greater understanding of Pompeii’s fascinating history, a tour to the ruins and Mount Vesuvius accompanied by an expert guide is well worth looking into.

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Reader interactions.

October 23, 2016 at 1:19 pm

Another easy day trip to Rome is Frascati. Frascati is famous for their white wine and is an easy 25 minute train ride from Roma Termini and costs only 2.10 euro. The town is charming and if you’d like to go on a great laid-back tour I recommend The Old Frascati Wine Tour The tour is run by an American woman who lives in Frascati and is part of one of the wine making families on the tour. Buon Viaggio!

October 10, 2015 at 11:03 am

Pompeii is absolutely feasible for a day trip. The Frecciarossa train takes 70 minutes from Termini to Naples and there the Circumvesuviana train departs every 20 minutes or so, so it won’t take more than 2 hours door-to-door. A must see

April 24, 2015 at 10:35 am

The trips you suggested from Rome sound very interesting. As we will not have a car, are they accessible by public transportation (train/bus)?

June 29, 2014 at 12:43 am

Your list is quite interesting but I would like to make some further suggestions to it. Instead of having only one list “Day trips from Rome”, you create two lists based on the distance from the upper mentioned tourist sites to the nearest big city. Here is my suggestion:

a. 5 Day Trips from Rome 1. Ostia 2.Tivoli 3. Cassino (here you can visit the old Monte Cassino abbey and the ruins of the old roman city Cassinium) 4.The Volcanic lakes around Rome (Lago di Albano- the deepest in Italy), Lago di Bolsena, Lago di Nemi, Lago di Bracciano 5. The city of Gaeta (with a lot of medieval buildings and narrow streets) and Parco Nazionale di Monte Orlando (located in the city)

b. 5 Day trips from Napoli 1. Pompeii 2. Amalfi/Positano (Costiera Amalfitana) 3. Sorrento 4. Caserta (in this city you can find Reggia di Caserta the royal palace, an UNESCO World Heritage site) 5. Capri/Ischia

July 4, 2013 at 12:30 am

Most of these destinations are too far for a reasonable day trip. Who wants to spend 5 hours getting to/from Assisi?

July 4, 2013 at 3:47 am

For a round-trip this sounds pretty acceptable imho. However, if you find this too long for just one place it is also possible to take an organized trip and combine it with Orvieto.

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Stunning day trips from Rome

Don't miss a chance to see more of Italy - more beautiful cities are just a train ride away

It’s got to be said, there’s absolutely no place like Rome . From the world’s most delicious cacio e pepe to some incredible architecture, terrific galleries and a whole load of laid-back wine bars. Once you’re there, you might never want to leave, but a wise man once told us that you can actually have too much of a good thing, and if that’s true, you might want to venture away from the capital, just once. 

And it turns out Rome has some seriously nice neighbours, many of them just a short train journey away. Heading out on a day trip has never been easier, and our top five pretty much have it all. From winding streets to enticing chapels and hidden foodie spots, there’s so much to discover once you know where to look. Here are the best day trips from Rome. 

RECOMMENDED:  📍 The best things to do in Rome 🏛️  Unmissable attractions in Rome 🍽️ The best restaurants in Rome 🛍️ Where to go shopping in Rome 🇮🇹 The best places to visit in Italy

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Day trips from Rome

1.  Naples

Though most people pass through this seaside metropolis on their way to Pompeii, the city of Naples has cleaned up its image in recent years and is worth a visit in its own right. Replete with splendid architectural gems like the Cappella Sansevero and Castel dell-Ovo, vibrant street life and some of Italy’s most celebrated cuisine, Naples satisfies both body and soul.

Start by wandering through Spaccanapoli and the winding streets of the Decumani before enjoying a Margherita at one of the many pizzerias along Via dei Tribunali. Then make your way over to the central Piazza del Plebiscito and the waterfront to take in views of Mount Vesuvius from across the Bay of Naples.

Da Nennella is a boisterous trattoria located in the historic Quartieri Spagnoli that serves up traditional fare in a great atmosphere. You should also try the traditional Neapolitan sfogliatella at Attanasio near the train station and taste a fried pizza at Neapolitan pastries, like Baba al Rum and Sfogliatella, at Pasticceria Poppella and fried pizza at Antica Pizza Fritta da Zia Esterina Sorbillo. 

DRINK: 

Coffee in Naples is regarded as the best in all of Italy; try it at the historic Caffè Gambrinus. A great wine bar-restaurant in the posh Chiaia district is L'Ebbrezza di Noe, or opt for a mixed drink at the outdoor cocktail bar Barril.

Visit the tiled cloister of Chiostro Santa Chiara and dedicate a few hours to the Archaeological Museum of Naples, which houses ancient artefacts and mosaics recovered at Pompeii. On hot summer days, seek shelter underground with a guided visit to the Catacombs of San Gennaro and discover a unique side to this fascinating city. 

Book a room at the  Palazzo Caracciolo  near the Naples Central Station with its impressive 15th-century inner courtyard.

Don’t miss... 

Naples has a long tradition of making elaborate nativity scenes and figurines, which you can discover along Via San Gregorio Armeno in the historic centre.

Get there... A train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale for one hour 18 minutes. 

2.  Ostia Antica

The Archeological Park of Ostia Antica is a wonderful site for a day trip from Rome and is on par with Pompeii for artistic and cultural value. L ocated at the mouth of the Tiber River, Ostia Antica was the harbour city of ancient Rome and dates to the fourth century BC.

With an ancient theatre, public bath structures, a Christian Basilica, a Jewish synagogue and dozens of temples dedicated to the Persian god Mithra, Ostia Antica provides a gorgeous glimpse into the lives of the ancient ruins and will fascinate historians and anyone interested in Ancient Rome. 

Before you venture inside the ruins, fuel up on classic Roman cuisine like carbonara and meatballs at Sora Margherita, located around the corner from the entrance to Ostia Antica. 

Stop for coffee at Bar Centro da Tonino e Maria, a casual bar with plenty of seating outside to relax.

With numerous suggested itineraries for exploring the extensive park, you won’t be able to see everything in one day. But don’t miss the ancient Baths of Neptune, featuring an elaborate mosaic of the sea god riding a chariot, and the Roman Teatro, a horseshoe-shaped theatre.

Ostia Antica is a better day trip than an overnight visit from Rome, but to make a lengthier stay, book in at the  Smy Aran Blu Roma Mare Hotel  at nearby Ostia Beach and soak in some sunshine on the beach the next day.

Don’t miss...

The chance to catch a show at the Roman Teatro during the summer: from electronic music to theatrical performances, the ancient stage comes alive for spectators 2,000 years after it was first built, a truly unique experience.

Get there... A 32-minute train from Roma Termini to  Fiumicino Aeroporto, followed by a 19 minute bus to Romagnoli/Calza.

3.  Orvieto

Orvieto, a hilltop jewel that lies north of Rome in the Umbria region, is replete with small-town charm and makes for a perfect change of scenery from the bustle of the Eternal City. Orvieto boasts numerous artistic and cultural sights, in addition to delightful cafes and restaurants, for a relaxing day trip or weekend away in the countryside.

Begin your tour marvelling at the Duomo di Orvieto with its stunning façade, undoubtedly one of the loveliest in all of Italy, and peek at the frescoes inside the San Brizio Chapel, which were said to have inspired Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Shop for handmade olive-wood souvenirs at Orvieto's quaint shops before stopping for a traditional lunch of fresh pasta and cured meats. At sunset, climb up the Torre del Moro bell tower for a wonderful 360-degree view of the city and the painterly landscape in the distance.

Enjoy a rustic lunch at L'Oste del Re, a cosy restaurant serving local fare like Chianina beef and wild boar.

Have a glass of Orvieto DOC white wine at Enoteca al Duomo in the shadows of the 14th-century basilica. 

Orvieto is a delightful town to wander around window-shopping, popping into churches and tasting the local delicacies. You can also take a walk around the Anello della Rupe, a ring path that winds around the town of Orvieto, to admire it from below. 

Stay at the  Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini , a hotel that belonged to the Papal family of the same name, with comfortable rooms and historic touches.

Venture down St. Patrick's Well, a double-helix structure that dates to the 16th century.

Get there... A train from Roma Termini to Orvieto for one hour 15 minutes. 

4.  Tivoli

The elegant gardens and villas of Tivoli are a wonderful escape from Rome and will delight art history buffs and nature lovers. Tivoli can be reached by train in under an hour from central Rome and has two noteworthy villas that are UNESCO World Heritage sites; Villa d'Este, with its mesmerising fountains and terraced Renaissance gardens and Villa Adriana, is a large Roman archaeological complex constructed by Emperor Hadrian.

The two villas are very different in nature but can be easily seen on the same day. Villa d’Este is a more modern villa and boasts numerous fountains and waterfalls that will impress visitors for their beauty and engineering, while Villa Adriana is an ancient site that will require more imagination to piece together; it is pretty much ruined.

Located a short walk from both villas, L’Angolino di Mirko is a wonderful restaurant with flavourful dishes and a great atmosphere—perfect for lunch or dinner. If staying overnight, book a table at the elegant Ristorante Sibilla, which dates to 1720, for a little history with your meal. 

Sit down for a glass of wine at Enoteca Gadì, an atmospheric wine bar lined with bottles, or stop by Anselmo Pub for a pint. 

In addition to Villa d'Este and Villa Adriana, pay a visit to the romantic gardens of Villa Gregoriana, which are overlooked but remain a beautiful oasis in the city.

A short walk from the Tivoli train station and directly beside the two villas,  Bed and Breakfast Villa d'Este  is a charming place to stay in the centre of town.

Don't miss...  

Admire the splendid Teatro Marittimo, an island within Villa Adriana that has become a symbol of the ancient archaeological site.

Get there... A 50-minute bus from Rome Tiburtina to Tivoli Piazza Garibaldi. 

5.  Florence

You can’t miss a visit to Florence while in Italy, and this incredible city is only an hour and a half train ride from Rome. The capital of the Renaissance is filled to the brim with art and history: it is an outdoor museum that is best explored on foot, admiring its incredible architecture like the Loggia dei Lanzi and Florence Cathedral.

Walk across the Ponte Vecchio, pop into the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David and wander over to the Oltrarno neighbourhood across the Arno River to experience a quieter, more local side of this bustling city. Piazzale Michelangelo has one of the best views of Florence at sunset and makes for a perfect end to a day full of beautiful sights.

Try gourmet street food at Procacci, a historic delicatessen that serves speciality products like freshly-made panini with truffles. For rustic Tuscan fare, grab a seat at the tiny Osteria al Tranvai and pick off the daily specials or head to Osteria dell'Enoteca for a more upscale dining experience that strikes a perfect balance between new and old. 

Stop for coffee at La Ménagére, a design-forward restaurant and café that doubles as a floral boutique and furniture shop. For craft cocktails, Manifattura makes excellent mixed drinks with Italian spirits, and Le Volpi e L'Uva is a cosy wine bar for a glass of Chianti.

Climb Giotto's Bell Tower for an incredible view of Brunelleschi's Dome (be warned, there are 414 steps to the top), take a stroll through the lush Boboli gardens and pay a visit to the Scuola del Cuoio to see a historic leather factory and buy quality handcrafted leather products. 

With a panoramic loggia that gives a view of the city skyline,  Hotel Palazzo Guadagni  is a hotel that packs excellent value in the heart of Florence. Another great bet is the boutique hotel  Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni 1 , with its little terrace overlooking the Arno River.

Spend some time gazing up at the incredible mosaics inside the Florence Baptistery, with its impressive octagonal dome.

Get there... A train from Roma Termini to Firenze S.M.N. for one hour 46 minutes. 

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