7 Best Day Trips From Rome – Beautiful Places to Visit Near Rome, Italy

Rome is a treasure chest of ancient wonders, breathtaking architecture, and rich culture, but even the Eternal City can’t contain all the beauty of Italy. Explore nearby short trips from Rome or must-do day trips from Rome to get lost in cobblestone alleys and a tapestry of picturesque towns, stunning landscapes, and iconic cities, each offering a unique blend of history, gastronomy, and charm.

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Day Trips from Rome – Places to Visit Near Rome – Attractions near Rome

Whether seeking a break from the crowds, a deeper dive into Italian heritage, or simply an escape into nature, day trips from Rome are a perfect way to experience the country more intimately. In this blog, we’ll explore the best day trips, short trips, places, and attractions near Rome, complete with things to do, travel details, and helpful tips — everything you need to make the most of your Roman holiday.

Tivoli – Where Roman Luxury Comes to Life

About 35 km east of Rome, Tivoli is one of the most rewarding places to visit near Rome, ideal for day trips and overnight stays. This ancient town is famous for its UNESCO-listed villas, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty, Roman opulence, and Renaissance flair.

How to Reach Tivoli from Rome – Getting there is straightforward — you can take a train from Roma Tiburtina Station to Tivoli, which takes around 50 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive, and the scenic route along the Via Tiburtina is a delight.

Things to do in Tivoli

• Once you arrive, begin with Villa d’Este, an awe-inspiring Renaissance palace famous for its spectacular fountains, gardens, and water organ. Every corner feels like a step back into a more elegant era.
• Then head to Villa Adriana, the sprawling ruins of Emperor Hadrian’s countryside retreat, where you can walk through history and marvel at Roman engineering.

Overnight Stay option – Consider staying at Hotel Torre Sant’Angelo, perched on a hill with sweeping views of Tivoli and the surrounding countryside.

Tours to Book – Book a guided Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana combo tour to enhance your visit, which offers skip-the-line access and historical insights.

Tivoli is a perfect day trip from Rome, Italy, to explore the beautiful Roman and Renaissance luxury without straying too far from the capital.

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Orvieto – The Cliffside Wonder in Umbria

Rising dramatically above the Umbrian hills, Orvieto is a stunning medieval town combining natural drama and architectural beauty. It’s one of the top cities to visit near Rome for art lovers and wine enthusiasts.

How to Reach Orvieto from Rome – Located 120 km north of Rome, Orvieto is easily accessible by train in just over 90 minutes from Roma Termini. A funicular takes you up to the historic center from the train station.

Things to do in Orvieto

• Begin your visit with the Orvieto Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece adorned with mosaics and frescoes that rival Florence’s Duomo.
• Don’t miss the Underground Orvieto Tour, which takes you through a labyrinth of caves and tunnels dating back to Etruscan times.
• Climb the Torre del Moro for panoramic views of the surrounding valley, then reward yourself with a glass of local Orvieto Classico wine.

Overnight Stay Option – Stay at the charming Palazzo Piccolomini, which blends 16th-century architecture with modern comforts. If you’re planning your visit, consider joining a wine-tasting tour in Umbria, many of which depart from Orvieto.

Orvieto possesses a magical combination of cliff-top views, Etruscan history, and Umbrian culinary charm — just a short ride from Rome.

Civita di Bagnoregio – The Dying Town That’s Alive With Beauty

Often referred to as “la città che muore” or “the dying town,” Civita di Bagnoregio is a surreal and almost mythical village perched atop a crumbling hilltop. Despite its nickname, this tiny hamlet is one of the most beautiful attractions near Rome, especially for photographers and romantics.

How to Reach Civita di Bagnoregio – Located about 120 km north of Rome, the drive takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. If you’re going by public transport, take a train to Orvieto and then a local bus or taxi to Civita.

You’ll enter the town via a narrow footbridge that offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding valleys.

Things to do in Civita di Bagnoregio

• In the city, you’ll find narrow lanes, flower-bedecked stone houses, and cozy trattorias that feel untouched by time. So explore them by walking tour.
• Visit the tiny piazza, explore artisan shops, and soak in the tranquility.

Overnight Stay Option – Book a room at Corte della Maestà, a boutique B&B that offers romantic and uniquely decorated suites. Guided day tours from Rome are also available, often including Civita and Orvieto.

Few places capture the essence of a disappearing Italy like Civita. Its beauty lies not just in its architecture but in its fragile existence.

Florence – A Full Day in the Cradle of the Renaissance

Yes, Florence is worthy of a multi-day trip, but if your time is limited, it’s possible — and unforgettable — to do it in a day.

How to Reach Florence from Rome – High-speed trains make this day trip from Rome a breeze, with the journey taking just 1.5 hours from Roma Termini to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.

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Things to do in Florence

• Start your exploration with the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and don’t miss climbing the dome for incredible views.
• From there, make your way to the Uffizi Gallery, where Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and works by Michelangelo await.
• Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, and stop for gelato at a riverside café.

Tours to Book – A guided Florence day tour from Rome can help you cover the major sites efficiently.

Overnight Stay Option – If you want to stay overnight, check in to Hotel L’Orologio, a stylish mid-range hotel in the city’s heart.

Florence is the soul of Renaissance Italy, and its art, culture, and cuisine will make you wish you had more time.

Naples & Pompeii – A Southern Italian Adventure

For travelers wanting to dig deep into Roman history, few places can match the impact of Pompeii, the once-thriving Roman city buried by Mount Vesuvius. Combine this with a stroll through bustling Naples, and you’ve got one of the most dynamic short trips from Rome.

How to Reach Naples & Pompeii – Take a high-speed train from Rome to Naples in just over an hour. From Naples, local Circumvesuviana trains take you to Pompeii in 35 minutes.

Things to do in Naples & Pompeii

• Spend your morning exploring the ruins of Pompeii, where frescoes, temples, and homes offer an eerie window into ancient daily life.
• In the afternoon, head back to Naples to explore the historic center,
• Feast on authentic Neapolitan pizza at Da Michele, and take in the views from Castel dell’Ovo.
• If time allows, visit the Naples Archaeological Museum, home to most of Pompeii’s treasures. 

Overnight Stay Option – If staying overnight, Hotel Piazza Bellini offers excellent value in a historic palace right in the heart of Naples.

Tours to Book – Several operators offer full-day Pompeii and Naples guided tours from Rome, including round-trip transport and skip-the-line tickets.

This day trip from Rome allows you to explore Italy’s raw history and vibrant culture, showcasing Italy’s energy, passion, and resilience.

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Castel Gandolfo & The Roman Castles (Castelli Romani)

Just 25 km southeast of Rome lies the picturesque hill town of Castel Gandolfo, nestled on the shores of Lake Albano. It’s famous for being the Pope’s summer residence, but the surrounding Castelli Romani region is also filled with vineyards, rustic charm, and panoramic views.

How to Reach Castel Gandolfo & The Roman Castles – The trip takes only 40 minutes by train from Roma Termini, making it one of the most convenient day trips from Rome.

Things to do

• Explore the Apostolic Palace, which now houses the Papal Palace museum.
• Then enjoy a stroll around Lake Albano, rent a pedal boat, or enjoy a lakeside lunch.
• Drive or take a local tour through the surrounding towns like Frascati (famous for its white wine), Ariccia (try the porchetta), and Grottaferrata.

Overnight Stay Option – For a rustic overnight experience, stay at Hotel Castel Vecchio, offering lake views and a rooftop pool. Book a Castelli Romani wine-tasting tour for the perfect countryside indulgence.

Close to Rome yet worlds away in pace and scenery, this area is ideal for food, wine, and lakeside relaxation.

Viterbo – The Medieval Gem of Lazio

Viterbo is a hidden gem among the cities to visit near Rome, less touristy but rich in medieval charm, thermal baths, and papal history. If you’re visiting in September, don’t miss the Macchina di Santa Rosa procession, one of Italy’s most incredible festivals.

How to Reach Viterbo – Located 80 km north of Rome, Viterbo is reachable in about 1.5 hours by regional train or car.

Things to Do in Viterbo

• Wander the San Pellegrino district, one of the best-preserved medieval quarters in Italy.
• Visit the Palazzo dei Papi, once the seat of the popes during the 13th century.
• For relaxation, head to Terme dei Papi, the thermal spa used since Roman times.

Overnight Stay Option – Stay overnight at Palazzo Riario, a boutique hotel set within a 16th-century palace.

Viterbo offers medieval ambiance and authentic Lazio hospitality without the crowds — a perfect offbeat escape from Rome.

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Useful Tips – Short Trips Near Rome – Cities to Visit near Rome

• Start Early: Most day trips are easier if you catch early trains or tours. It gives you more time at your destination.
• Use Trenitalia or Italo: Both high-speed train services are reliable and efficient for reaching cities like Florence, Naples, and Orvieto.
• Book Tickets in Advance: For major attractions like the Uffizi Gallery, Pompeii, or Villa d’Este, pre-book your tickets to skip long lines.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Many of these towns are best explored on foot, often with cobbled streets and uphill climbs.
• Pack Light and Smart: Always carry a refillable water bottle, a hat in summer, and a light jacket in cooler months.
• Join a Tour When Needed: A guide enhances the experience by bringing history to life, especially for places like Pompeii or Florence.

Though you have made Rome your base city to explore nearby attractions, it doesn’t have to be your boundary. From Renaissance art in Florence to ancient ruins in Pompeii, from the serene gardens of Tivoli to the disappearing charm of Civita, the day trips and short escapes from Rome give you a glimpse of the broader world of Italian beauty, heritage, and flavors. Each destination is an adventure in its own right — near enough for a day, rich enough for a lifetime of memories.

So lace up your walking shoes, charge your camera, and let Rome be your gateway to discovering Italy’s most enchanting nearby towns and cities.

Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro

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