Exploring Rome can be overwhelming, even for the most experienced travelers. There is just so much to see and do in the Eternal City. When you want to escape the capital’s chaos, several worthwhile locations make for perfect day trips from Rome. Just hop on a train at Roma Termini, the central train station, and enjoy one of these nearby destinations. 

1. Bologna

Food lovers will rejoice in the short journey from Rome to Bologna. Spend the day taking in the unique architecture of this university town, including the famous UNESCO World Heritage porticoes, then book yourself a table for a long lunch of fresh pasta and wine. Walk off your meal by admiring the food markets across the city, or climb one of Bologna’s towers. Can you spot which one is leaning, just like in Pisa?

2. Tivoli

By far one of the most popular destinations from Rome, Tivoli is home to three stunning villas with expansive gardens. Think you recognize pictures of Tivoli? Well, there is one memorable scene in The Lizzie McGuire Movie that takes place at Villa d’Este. Enjoy the expansive green space and splendor of these unique estates. 

3. Napoli

Go for the pizza, stay for the people watching. Luckily, Napoli is just a short trip from Rome. Naples might be even more chaotic than Rome, but everyone should experience its raw beauty at least once. Plus, it’s the birthplace of pizza and sfogliatella, a warm, flaky pastry shaped like a shell. Travelers can also consider visiting Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii for the day.

4. Anzio

If you’ve ever visited the Eternal City in the summer, then you know how inescapable the heat in Rome can be. Why not cool off with a day by the sea? Rome is only about 40 minutes by train from the clear aqua waters of the Tyherrian sea. Anzio is an excellent destination for the day, where you can mix history, the beach, and delicious seafood. 

5. Assisi

Anyone with a knack for churches and holy relics will find Assisi to be a treasure trove of discoveries. With its blend of light pink and sand-colored stone, Assisi is easy on the eyes. Once you’ve made it to the town, take in the view of the horizon, with its countless olive groves stretching below. When you’ve tired of going in and out of churches, sit down for a meal. Since you’re in Umbria, consider ordering something with truffles. 

6. Castel Gandolfo

If you’ve ever wondered where the Pope spends his summers, then it’s time to visit Castel Gandolfo. Known for the Apostolic Palace (which is open for tours), this little lakeside town is more than meets the eye. A short walk from the train station is a beautiful stretch of beach on the shores of a volcanic crater lake, Lake Albano. Take a refreshing swim then lounge on the soft black sand in the shade of the papal palace. 

7. Bracciano

Bracciano is another lakeside town near Rome, home to a stunning castle with sweeping views over Lake Bracciano. If you’ve been looking for a small medieval town to explore, then this is it. Take the time to walk through Castello Odescalchi, the fated site of Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise’s wedding. Its halls might seem haunting, with how much history this castle has seen.  

8. Florence

If you’re dying to take in the Renaissance city but only have a day left on the itinerary, you’re in luck! Florence is only 1.5 hours on the speed train from Rome, with train times available throughout the day. Visit a museum or two, take in the incomparable beauty of the duomo, and enjoy some Tuscan cuisine. Pisa is another famous city to visit from Rome, less than an hour away from Florence.

With so many amazing day trip suggestions from Rome, you might have a hard time choosing what to see next. Wherever you choose to go, delight in the magic of returning to the Eternal City in time for sunset and an Aperol Spritz.

 

This post is by Maggie, the blogger behind The Artful Everyday and former Rome Abroad Traveler. Follow her on Instagram for more Italy content and travel tips.