While my design certainly wasnt going to compete with the many Roman masterpieces found in Lazio, I came away with a new appreciation for this challenging art form. 1.6 Calcata Vecchia. About an hour from the city, the three towns framing the lake combine the crumbling charm of rural Italy with the eclectic history of Rome. From the train station at the bottom of the hill, take the funicular to the top, and then either walk into the town or take a local bus to the piazza where the Duomo is located. Built by the Caetani (or Gaetani) family, as was much of the village, it tells the story of this noble Italian family. 22 Gorgeous Seaside Towns in Italy - Fodors Travel Guide 1. Beneath the medieval architecture lies a much older layer of caves dug into the tuff by pre-Roman civilizations. Florence, Rome, Venice. Separated from the beautiful bay of Serapo Beach and the bustling thoroughfare of Via della Indipendenza by Monte Orlando park, the old harbour-side part of Gaeta feels very tucked away. Calcata Vecchia Calcata Vecchia is located 50 km north of Rome in the direction of the city of Viterbo. Quickly access the town with about an hour-long bus or train ride from Rome for less than 5 each way. My recommendation would be to try to get a table at La Cantina di Arianna, with a wood-burning oven and amazing local dishes.Civita Di Bagnoregio. thank you very much for all this information about Italy! Book early, because this is a popular place to visit, especially for honeymooners! Travelers are voting Muggia, Albano Laziale and Grottaferrata as the best of 26 towns & villages near Rome. Looking to explore beyond the region of Lazio? How to get there? Recently, I heeded that invitation and set out on my own Viaggio Italiano to discover some of the best places near Rome to visit by train, bus, and the occasional taxi. This means if you purchase something from a link, I may make a small commission at no cost to you. Its set in an exquisite botanical garden, the bedrooms decorated with murals. Even though Im not a history or archaeology person, I was captivated walking through the ruins. Nearby, the Cannuccete Valley provides some beautiful walking trails, but the most impressive close-by attraction is the Archaeological Museum of Palestrina. Discover nature, gardens, architecture, and history all rolled into one charming city. However, if youre not in the mood for a non-stop city break and instead want to slow down and savour the good things in life alongside the best Italian experiences, the countless small towns in Italy close to Rome promise plenty of historical insight still but served up with a much more laid-back atmosphere. Suggested by: Kerri from Beer and Croissants. Also, consider heading to Civita di Bagnoregio, another breathtaking borgo that, sadly, I didnt have time to visit on this trip. Theres a spa, tennis and petanque courts and a restaurant at which you can have a delicious dinner while discussing Roman history with owner Fausto Bonetti. The compact medieval core of Bomarzo sits above the park, and while it wont take long to explore the streets, a trip here combined with the nearby attractions shows why small-town Italy shouldnt be underestimated. The Villa Borghese Park is the most famous park in Rome. Each room and suite is done up in its own style, and the hotel makes a virtue of this. Orvieto is famous for its ceramic stores, so if you love shopping, make sure you allow for time to browse some of the stores. This website is full of my favourite places and people, and stories from the road I hope it can help you explore the world a little bit better through tips, advice, and personal stories. While I didnt stay here myself, I did have lunch in the serene setting of Agriturismo La Fattoria, which also offers rooms in the converted farmhouse. The town is home to a volcanic lake, which is one of the top attractions near Rome. If you are considering places to visit near Rome to stay a while and relax, little Atina will happily oblige. You will find themdirectly at the main square Piazzo Pio IIbut also inside the hiddenromantic side streets! And not to forget the breathtakingCathedral of Santa Maria Assuntathat is located in the center and is one of Pienzas landmarks. This post contains affiliate links. 35 Amazing Day Trips from Rome - Best Places to Visit nearby - TourScanner The town stands on the site of the ancient Etruscan city-state of Sabate, of which nothing remains today but tombs, legend and the whispers of the occasional ancient geographer, half-lost through the millennia. 26 of the most beautiful places in Rome When it comes to things to do in Rome, it's hard to resist simply wandering the pretty streets. Just a woman who has fallen in love with getting lost around the world. Quaint, rounded village surrounded by gorgeous valley and river countryside. Certainly, these borghi could be day trips from Rome, but they will all invite you to slow down and stay a while, and with plenty of museums, delicious regional produce, and Roman artefacts to discover, you might just want to heed their invitation. The Temple of Diana, a historically significant pilgrimage and worshipping site since the 6th century BC, and the Roman Ship Museum of Nemi. Known for its medieval architecture and narrow cobblestone streets, this town is a popular destination for artists and culture lovers. Walking around, youll feel like youve stepped into the Middle Ages. If youre feeling hungry, be sure to order the most famous local dish,Cavatelli Vitorchianesi, a thick spaghetti-like pasta resembling an earthworm and topped with a rich tomato sauce. There arent many hotels in the city center, but B&Bs provide a great alternative. For many, this tiny historic village and the beautiful landscapes around are a highlight of any Tuscany tour. Baita la Faggeta, in the Faggeta forest, is a fantastic restaurant in an idyllic setting. The historic city of Pienza is one of the best small villages near Rome to visit! The inhabitants of Trevignano have taken a pragmatic approach to antiquity throughout the centuries. By public transport from Rome, the best bet is to take a bus to Palestrina and another up the hill if you dont want to do the steep climb. Overview of the Amalfi Coast There are bus routes also available. The local white wine, Colli Albani, also featured heavily during the evenings spent on my apartments balcony overlooking the lake. How to get there? Of course, tearing yourself away from the countrys attraction-packed, sightseeing-centric and footfall-heavy capital is a tough decision to make. 5 Romantic villages near Rome you should visit - RomeCabs Why visit? By public transport from Rome, you can either take the Cotral bus to Rieti and then change to the Labro bus, or a train to Terni and then a second train, the quickest journey is around two and a half hours. Civita Di Bagnoregio is one of the most famous and spectacular hilltop villages in Italy. The magic of these places was the chance to enjoy a slower pace of life, connect with the local community, and discover numerous ancient sites and stories that perhaps a day trip wouldnt allow, so do yourself a favour and stay a while. In the old village core, the streets are a delight to explore although the compact size means it wont take long. The star of the show is a 40ft canoe, one of five such vessels that astonished archaeologists when they were discovered. Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are some of the most famous, but some of the smaller, less known towns, such as Tramonti and Nerano, are well worth some of your precious time. Your email address will not be published. Lago Albano. The promenade, lined with palm trees, bars and restaurants, stretches for two miles and is the perfect place to enjoy the warm evening breezes during your passeggiata, or just to lounge on a bench and contemplate the water. Located next to Villa Gregoriana, this restaurant provides a great atmosphere and delicious food. Like the Dan Flying Solo Facebook page for more travel stories! This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. High above in the wooded land of the mount, incredible viewpoints of Gaetas castle and borgo can be enjoyed. Privenos menu of treats is delicious, with a heavy focus on buffalo produce, such as mozzarella and meats, multi-award-winning Orsini Olive Oil, andChiacchietegli di Priverno(violet broccoli from Priverno). At the Santuario Della Santissima Annunziata, dont miss the jaw-dropping Cappella dell Immacolata Concezione behind. Do yourself a favour and spend a few nights here. It has a spectacular facade, with golden mosaics and a lovely rose window. The better rooms here are the most tasteful in Trevignano by some margin, but one or two edge into slightly Argos catalogue-y territory. 2.1 How to get there. Once you pass the footbridge and take a million Instagram-worthy shots of Civita Di Bagnoregio, youll enter the town. Montepulciano, for top-notch wine. Sweeping views across the countryside and eternal city, and a side trip to the amazing National Archaeological Museum of Palestrina. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. An incredible dining experience not to be missed is at La Tagliata. However, the true magic is the original architecture. I've been lucky enough to turn my passion for travel and photography into my job, and spent four years travelling full time before settling down in Portugal - a far cry from the life I thought I would have when I left my London restaurant managers job. The most popular of these are Cascia near Terni and Albano Laziale in L'Aquila City. The atmosphere you breathe is that of a community, where everyone knows everyone and everyone is ready to welcome new visitors. The most beautiful villages around Rome - Unique Tours Factory I only had lunch here, but after having a snoop around the grounds, I wished we had booked in for a few nights. The journey is around 80-minutes by both car or public transport. Required fields are marked *. Perhaps most excitingly, in the 16th century it was home to Paolo Giordano Orsini, the Duke of Bracciano, and his wife Isabella Romola de' Medici. In Orvieto, start by exploring the beautiful Duomo, the most-visited sight in the town. Get a FREE budget printable to help you save money on any trip. 596. My mission? This much is obvious when you first glimpse it a tumble of medieval houses, painted shutters gaping, scattered down the hillside like a handful of rolled dice. If you want to stay in a super peaceful and small town in Italy, then Bomarzo does the trick although perhaps basing yourself in Viterbo will make getting around by public transport easier. Never spam, just #RealTravel. Castel Gandolfo is often regarded as one of the most beautiful small towns near Rome, something that even the Pope would attest to as it is here he has his summer residence, the Papal Palace. Today, walking through the alleys and panoramic terraces, you can explore the artists workshops and get to know them. While Castel Gandolfo is a good option for a day trip near Rome, staying a night or two will allow you to appreciate the quieter side of the streets and give you more time to experience the lake and palace. What a wonderful article! Once youve tired of the castle, take a look at the medieval churches scattered around the town. Where to stay? Rooms are recently refurbished, and do a great job of melding the houses roughly hewn stone brickwork with a more modern aesthetic. This small, historic town is a hidden gem nestled by the Sabine Hills just 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Rome. These cities around Rome are the perfect way to balance out your vacation. 1. There is also a startling 16th-century depiction of the death and ascension of the Virgin Mary, which decorates the churchs apse. Beyond Rome lies a wealth of options for day trips and excursions. Meander down to the towns long promenade to sniff out some fresh seafood. By car, Vitorchiano is 90-minutes from Rome or two and a half hours from Florence. People have been gazing into this landscape since prehistory squint, and you might almost be there with them. Medieval village vibes coupled with an impeccable hidden tower discovery. Inside the tower, a perfectly preserved bell tower was found, which had been hidden in plain sight for centuries, unbeknown to the villagers. Complete Guide: The Best Coastal Towns Near Rome For the best food in town, go to I Tre Scalini in the main square. Set behind crenellated defensive walls is the historic borgo part of Vitorchiano, which has expanded to include a newer town. If you dont have a car and want to explore the province and small Italian towns around, then Rieit is a good base. In the middle of the Lake of Orta, you will find a tiny little island full of churches and old buildings. There are a few options on how to get to Positano. Only a very few police boats and fishermen may use their engines, making it one of the least polluted lakes in Italy - and one of the most tranquil. Join the monthly newsletter for travel tips and inspiration! To ensure you see the best bits, here photographer Mary Quincy shares her guide to the most beautiful places in Rome - from landmark fountains and bridges to hidden alleys and neighbourhood secrets By Mary Quincy Whether the eels are the result of a pun or linguistic confusion is unclear, but their presence definitely has something to do with their Italian name anguilla, which is sometimes wrongly taken to be the root of Anguillara. Civita di Bagnoregio, also known as the dying town, because of its remote location and because of the few people that still live there, is one of the most visited villages outside of Rome. By public transport from Rome, you can take a train to Fossanova-Priverno station and then a quick Cotral (or commune) bus to the village or town. The town is nestled 30 km away from Rome and can be explored on foot. The Torre dellOrologio wasnt discovered until 1974, when repair works took place, but boy, it was one big discovery. How to get there? 7 Best Places To Visit Near Rome On Your Italy Holiday In 2023 Its also usually much less visited than neighbouring Castel Gandolfo. From sipping on delicious award-winning Cabernet in small Italian towns to visiting the city of Cicero and devouring pasta in countryside agriturismos (rural farm accommodation), all your away-from-Rome dream Italian experiences are awaiting here. Historic Il Cavalier DArpino (it used to be a wool factory) provides a wonderfully grand stay with a pool a short walk from the centre. If you seek a small town in Italy to stay a while and soak up the good life, you wont go wrong here. In fact, the town is named after the Roman villa that stood where the coast formed a right angle, or angularia. What it does mean, though, is that things can be a little hit and miss. Most travelers head to popular places such as Ostia Antica or Civita di Bagnoregio; some travel as far as Naples and Pompeii. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. B&B al Vicolo dei Pescatori is right on the waterfront, with some rooms offering gorgeous lake views. The lake is surrounded by hills, and the town is situated at the top of one of these hills. Civita Di Bagnoregio is the old town, close to (modern) Bagnoregio and not far from Orvieto. 10 of the Most Beautiful Villages in Romania You Must Visit - Alux.com While Atina could be visited in half a day, or youll need more hours if done as a day trip from Rome, the views of the valley are a serene place to rest, and the converted palace of Palazzo del Senatore has amazing views from the breakfast terrace, though I found the attic rooms a little cramped with the low ceilings and lack of regal features, so for the full palatial experience, opt for the upgrade. Many of the places to stay in Vitorchiano are private home rentals, which are handy as here would make a good base for a few nights exploring the Province of Viterbo. Why visit? Arpino is a great place to base yourself in the south, as there is plenty going on here. Inside the old guesthouse, archaeological discoveries from the ancient Roman city of Privernum can be witnessed, with the collection continuing in Privenos city museum, the old medieval town nearby, which gained its name from the historic settlement. 18 Small, Quaint Towns Near Rome in Tuscia and Beyond Why visit? Palilula, Dolj. Past the arch carved with coats of arms of ancient families, you enter an exclusively medieval area where a few hundred people live. By public transport from Rome, take a train to Orte or Viterbo and then a Cotral bus; the journey takes around two hours. In the municipality of Santa Marinella . Gaeta was the only borgo I visited in Lazio that sits on the sparkling cyan waters of the Mediterranean. Tivoli is home to the magnificent Villa D'Este which has the most picturesque garden. You are in the right place! Legend has it that Isabella would have her lovers brought to her room in secret every night; when she was done with them they would be ejected through a secret trap door and dropped into a well lined with blades. Perched above the volcanic-crater lake of the same name below, the pedestrianised compact borgo core is a mix of colourful facades, restaurant terraces try the localporchetta(pork) sandwich and historic buildings. For a beach-view stay, the simple rooms at Hotel Serapo sufficed (the upgrades to sea views were around 15 when we arrived as we had booked a normal room), or right in the Old Town, we got an amazing bargain at B&B La Gaetana, which has a terrace overlooking the tower and sea, by calling directly to the owner. Though Trevignano Romano is little more than a fishing village today, it has far grander roots. There is plenty to do in this picturesque town, from incredible restaurants and sweeping views of the Meditteranean Sea. Not much has changed locals claim that there are houses being built today whose garages are repurposed Etruscan tombs. For such a notable destination, its relatively small, but certainly not without its charm. Wandering around the town of Orvieto is perhaps one of the most fun things you can do here. Top tip: Get up early to hike Santo Stefano Hill at sunrise; the low clouds and magnificent views from the chapel are worth it. Here are 8 incredible small towns near Rome, Italy that are perfect for an afternoon trip or a long weekend! Theres also an archaeological museum, though some of the most ancient and important treasures found here now live in Romes museum. Flowers sprout up crumbling walls while delicate wrought-iron balconies perch higgledy-piggledy like scattered pigeons pausing for breath. The gorgeous 17th Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo contains . Why visit? 15 beautiful villages near Rome and across Lazio, Italy To inspire you to 'let the bucket list flow' and see what the world has to offer. Inside the 16th-century tower, a simple structure that rises dramatically next to the hamlets entrance lies a true hidden gem of Italy. Inside, ancient houses dating back to the medieval period (and even before) sit on narrow alleyways that somehow always lead you back to the towns square and old clock tower. While youre in town, make sure you visit the Centro Espositivo del Neolitico, which houses some of the most interesting finds from the underwater exploration of the Neolithic village, alongside exhibits from the actual archaeological processes. This village near Rome is pretty small, so can make for a day trip, although youll likely want to also spend a few hours at least visiting the museum of Palestrina, so consider staying at least one night here, perhaps at B&B I 4 Sentieri which has magnificent views over the borgo. The temptation to liberate one and take an aerial look at the waters of Lake Bracciano is near irresistible. Yes, Atina is one of those villages near Rome you come to get away from it all, and the sublime views of the cloud-hugged valley at sunrise, where mist rises above award-winning vineyards, remind you every morning youve made a good choice. 1.5 The town of Trevignano Romano. 1.2 Things to see around Lake Bracciano. As you walk the tranquil streets and mountain trails nowadays, its hard to imagine such terror and misery in this calm village near Rome, although monuments and war-location reminders are still visible. This Renaissance Sistine gilded chapel is coated in gold, with impressive paintings by masters Scipione Pulzone and Giovanni Filippo Criscuolo. Here you will find the pure, magical romantic: The old town knowns as the perfect city of the Renaissance and the endless rolling fields, dreamlike viewpoints, and picturesque cypress avenues, here you will experience the real Tuscany, which is otherwise only known from travel magazines. The island is Isola San Giulio. Nearby, you'll find some of the other most delightful villages near Rome, such as Ariccia, Lanuvio and Nemi, so Castel Gandolfo serves as a decent base for both hamlet hopping, but also exploring Rome if you don't want to stay in the capital proper. Historical ruins pre-dating the Romans, plenty of culture to discover, and a lively centre. You can also take the train to Naples and take the ferry. Santa Marinella and Santa Severa: seaside close to Rome. May 5, 2019 Europe, Italy Often referred to as the green heart of Italy, Umbria is a treasure trove of exploration. 10-Day Itinerary: Venice to Rome Road Trip, Your email address will not be published. Hey there! Its here that Saint Francis came to pray, although in his time, it was sleeping under rocky caverns and seeking silence, and the grand complex came much later. The capital of Rieti Province also goes by the same name, and the valley here is a verdant retreat ripe with cycling, horse riding, and hiking adventures plus some water sport options such as bird watching by the lakes and rafting down the rivers. The Castle was built by Pope Orsini as a summer residence. Another intriguing attraction, carved from the localpeperinostone but built much later, is the Park of Monsters, known as the Sacro Bosco. Orta San Giulio in Piedmont is a beautiful coloured village to visit. I spent most of my time here around the Valle di Comino, where some huge battles took place, but now its a serene setting of olive groves, mountains, and beautiful small villages near Rome. Down in the valley below, the lakes of Riserva dei Laghi Lungo e Ripasottile are a serene spot for a stroll and bird watching, while alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Santa Susanna spring in Rivodutri youll find a picnic stop haven. Italy's fabulous five: planning your visit to the Cinque Terre How to get there? You can drive from Rome in about an hour, but remember to allow for traffic. The fresco shows a bevy of saints crowding around the Virgins deathbed, halos practically clanking together as they shoulder one another out of the way. Greccio is pretty small as a village itself, with most of this village near Romes attractions being in the surrounding valley walks and the sanctuary. The Prettiest Towns Near Rome - Asmallworld 17 Most beautiful Towns & Villages in Tuscany Best Places to Stay in Tuscany: from Villas to Castles Table Of Contents Italian Coastal Towns Orientation Italy is surrounded by water on the 3 sides and it holds sovereignty over one of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean sea that is Sicily. The best towns near Rome, Italy | CN Traveller From visiting ceramic and linen shops, visiting markets, or catching some sun on the beach, Positano is easily one of the prettiest places to visit in Italy. Here, you'll find two of Rome's most vibrant squares, Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori, both bursting with small, intimate . Why visit? You can roam around the village, observe the historic buildings or just amuse yourself by looking at the hordes of tourists flooding the town square. Ancient Romans thought so, too, and made it one of their favorite seaside bolt-holes. The symbol of Anguillara is a pair of eels, which explains the otherwise rather odd Fountain of Eels that stands at the crest of the town. Top tip: If you wish to visit the Town Hall museum, come on the weekend. Just make sure to leave the hotel at least once during your stay. By car, Labro is a two-hour drive from Rome. But resist it you must the museum is run by the Italian Air Force, which takes a rather dim view of high jinks. Home Destinations Europe Italy 15 Beautiful small towns and villages near Rome and across Lazio, Italy. Its a tranquil place to stay and rest, with a couple of cafes which are busy by day, as this is one of the most historical places near Rome to visit by train, the station a pleasant 25-minute stroll away. Be sure not to miss out on this incredible village near Rome! You can drive from Rome in about an hour, but remember that the traffic can be unpredictable. Whatever you're looking for from Sardinia to the best beach towns in Puglia Italy, you'll find tips below. Near Bracciano lurk four aircraft hangars which house an enormous collection of vintage planes and make up the Italian Air Force Museum. Later, in 2008, Salvatore Fosci, a local of Bomarzo, set about to clear the weeds and vegetation that had kept this ancient site closed off to visitors and started leading tours here. Tickets cost from 3.60. On a peak above the town, as ominous and romantic as something from a Gothic novel, the ruins of a medieval fortress squat above yet another staggeringly lovely view. Walk along the promenade at night, however, and youll catch the most atmospheric view of the town. Why visit? However, personally, I think its a magical place to spend a night or two. A charming hill town perched on top of volcanic rock in Umbria, Orvieto offers commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Sperlonga Anzio Santa Marinella Ostia Fregene Terracina Sabaudia Final Thoughts On The Roman Coastline Sperlonga The coastal town of Sperlonga is located about halfway between Rome and Naples. Dont Panic! It stands on a limestone hill, 605 metres above sea level; it is one of the most beautiful medieval Tuscan towns and is called the "jewel of the 1500s" due to its impressive Renaissance art and architecture. The suites and apartments at Atlantis Inn, especially those with lake views, are a delight.