Exploring Rome and its surroundings can be a lifelong journey, what with it being full of ancient sites, historic landmarks, and captivating ruins. If you're considering mixing up your stay in the Eternal City with a few day trips, you're in for a treat. Rome offers easy access to a variety of destinations, from impressive archaeological sites to pretty hill towns and some stunning beaches.
Here are some top day trip ideas from Rome, most of which are conveniently accessible via public transport. While some of these trips may take a bit longer, they are definitely worth the effort when you need a break from the bustling atmosphere of Italy’s largest city.
9 Best Day Trips From Rome
1Florence
Day Trips From Rome
280 km
Distance
From the most famous cathedral dome dominating the skyline of Florence, architectural marvels reminding you of their past political might and world’s top art museums displaying the works of the Renaissance to the stunning gardens, panoramic views and beautiful villas, Florence is a ‘must visit’ tourist destination. A day trip from Rome to Florence with meticulous planning and a carefully crafted itinerary can comfortably allow you to explore the best of Florence in one day.
Top things to do in Florence
2Venice
Day Trips From Rome
526 km
Distance
Venice, a city built entirely on water, has always pulled hoards for tourists curious to witness this distinctive marvel. Popularly called the “floating city” or the “city of canals” is a unique city historically as well as architecturally. Built on mud and sand, this city has magical touch to it with spectacular scenery coupled with the miracle of creative genius. Ornate marbled and frescoed palaces with artistic domes are an unbelievable work of art and architecture. And if all this wasn't enough the tantalising Venetian cuisine with traces of ancient spice route entices you to make this city a must visit destination.
Top experiences in Venice
3Naples
Day Trips From Rome
226 km
Distance
Driving through the breathtaking view of the scenic Italian countryside, you find yourself witnessing the most spectacular slice of the country’s coastline. Clear blue waters of the bay of Naples is the most refreshing treat to your senses. One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Naples is also one of the most charming and beautiful cities in Italy. With a historic city center that is a designated Unesco World Heritage Site; the architectural, artistic and cultural heritage of Naples is second to none. If you decide to visit Naples, for a prolonged stay or a day tour, make sure to check out the National Archaeological Museum, Royal Palace of Naples, Castel Nuovo, Castel Sant'Elmo, the Catacombs of San Gennaro and more.
Top experiences in Naples
4Amalfi
Day Trips From Rome
277 km
Distance
The town of Amalfi and the surrounding seascape are one of the most beautiful places in all of Italy. Situated at the mouth of a ravine opening up into the sea, Amalfi is situated at the foot of Monte Cerreto and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and beautiful coastal scenery. The quaint town, perched upon a hill, paints a stunning picture and make visiting Amalfi a must for those visiting Italy..
5Tivoli
Day Trips From Rome
33 km
Distance
Tivoli a city in Lazio, since the 19th century has been a favourite with poets, painters and rich aristocrats for its unparalleled scenic beauty. This hilltop town is home to two Unesco World Heritage Sites; Villa Adriana, the sprawling estate of Emperor Hadrian, and the 16th-century Villa d'Este, a Renaissance villa famous for its landscaped gardens and lavish fountains. Famous for archaeology, history, places of worship and natural sceneries, this town should definitely be visited by beauty lovers.
6Ostia Antica
Day Trips From Rome
26 km
Distance
Ostia Antica, ancient Rome’s seaport gives you a peak into the Roman lifestyle. Remains of the docks, warehouses, apartment flats, mansions, shopping arcades, and baths take you back 2000 years into the rich history of this port town. Just 30 minutes from the Colosseum this town has managed to preserve the ancient buildings, magnificent frescoes and impressive mosaics beautifully. It is a densely populated Roman city at the mouth of the river Tiber which is an ideal tourist destination for art and history lovers.
7Cinque Terre
Day Trips From Rome
436 km
Distance
Cinque Terre is a string of five charming little villages neatly tucked away in Northern Italy, a stunning coastal region often dubbed a traveler'd dream. The deep blue of the ocean and sky, the lush green of the man-made terraced gardens and the multi-color pastel hued houses are postcard perfect. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its sun, sand and wine, makes for a perfect relaxing getaway Rome.
8Siena
Day Trips From Rome
231 km
Distance
A city of museums and churches with a rich confluence of medieval art, Siena is an ideal holiday destination for wine lovers longing for a bit of old-world charm. The historic center of Siena prides itself on being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and The Siena Cathedral is the most notable of all the tourist attractions. Siena is often considered a giant, open-air museum with spiritual and secular monuments that have retained both their medieval forms and their extraordinary art collections. That said, a trip to Siena is a feast for the senses and an essential stop on every Tuscan itinerary.
Top experiences in Siena
9Castel Gandolfo
Day Trips From Rome
24 km
Distance
Perched atop the sapphire blue waters of Lake Albano, Castel Gandolfo is a quaint village that mushroomed around the Pope’s Summer Palace. Get on a train from Rome Termini station and skirt along the dreamy Italian countryside, far far away from the tourist hordes of Rome. Castel Gandolfo is one of the most picturesque historical villages of Castelli Romani. Tucked away in this quaint town is the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo that has given a long line of Popes respite from the hordes and heat of Rome; a summer getaway in essence.
Day Trips From Rome - Compare Your Options
Rome Day Trips | Distance | Duration | Category | Good For |
---|---|---|---|---|
Castel Gandolfo | 24 KM | 35 minutes | Nature Lovers & History | Family, Couples |
Ostia Antica | 26 KM | 35 Minutes | History and Culture | Family, Couples |
Tivoli | 33 KM | 36 Minutes | Shopping | Family, Couples |
Amalfi | 147 KM | 3.5 hours | Culture | Family, Couples |
Siena | 231 KM | 2.5 Hours | Nature Lovers & Winery | Family, Couples |
Naples | 226 KM | 5.5 hours | Historic | Family, Couples |
Florence | 280 KM | 3 hours | Art & Culture | Family, Couples |
Cinque Terre | 436 KM | 5 Hours | Coastal & Scenic Beauty | Youngsters, Couples |
Venice | 526 KM | 5.5 hours | Nature & Culture | Couples |
Day Trips From Rome Map
Insider Tips
1. Dress for the weather
Summers are pleasant in Italy and hence, you can dress up how you like. If visiting Italy in winter, remember that winter temperatures may go down to 9°C (48°F) in Rome and Naples.
2. Make an itinerary
Italy may be a small country but it offers an astounding number of experiences. It is better to plan your visit and not cramp in too much as you will be tempted.
3. Go for tours
Whenever you can, go for a guided tour. If it's your first time visiting Italy, then your guides will help you learn and experience interesting things that you otherwise wouldn't have.
4. Try the local cuisine
Italian food is more than just pizza and pasta. There's a whole universe of delicious Mediterranean cuisine waiting for you on your Italian adventure.
FAQs
Pisa is technically a day trip from Rome, but we recommend spending at least 2 days in Pisa to see all the sights. If you only have time for a day trip, we suggest visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa and then taking a train to one of the other nearby cities such as Florence or Siena.
Absolutely! Florence is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in all of Italy. We recommend taking an early train from Rome so that you have plenty of time to explore Florence. Be sure to visit some of the city's top sights such as the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio.
Yes, Tuscany is located just a few hours from Rome by train or car. Some of the most popular day trips from Rome to Tuscany include Florence, Siena, and Pisa.
In addition to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Florence, and Siena, other popular day trips from Rome include Assisi and Orvieto.
If you're looking to avoid crowds, we recommend visiting some of the less popular Day Trips in Rome such as Ostia Antica or Tivoli. These destinations are often overlooked by tourists but offer just as much beauty and history as the more popular spots.
You can drive to many destinations from Rome, but some of the most popular include the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, Florence, and Siena. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy around Rome, so plan your route accordingly.
The closest city to Rome is Ostia, which is located just a short drive or train ride away. Ostia is a great day trip destination if you're looking to avoid the crowds of Rome but still want to see some of the sights.