DAY TRIPS IN ROME, WHERE TO?
A trip to Rome does not need to limit you to the Eternal City. Though Rome has an infinite number of attractions, you may want to consider getting off the tourist-beaten track and heading to some of the lesser-known but equally beautiful surrounding areas for a day or two. While you can reach most places by train, it is also worth researching online Rome transfer services before you leave to make use of some inexpensive deals to and from the city. 1. Villa d’Este The beautiful estate of Villa d’Este is a must-see for those who enjoy lush historic gardens and sumptuous palatial estates. The stunning water features are seamlessly intertwined with artistic features and magnificent surroundings, giving visitors an often-welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of Rome’s city center. Several charming restaurants and delightful boutiques within the vicinity of the villa complete the package. 2. Ostia Antica This ancient Roman harbor is now about two miles from the sea and lies about 45 minutes by train from the centre of Rome. A must-see destination for archaeology buffs and fans of ancient architecture, the main attractions include several extremely well-preserved one-story dwellings complete with stairways and corridors, many stunning frescoes and mosaics, and the ruins of several luxurious homes that still house lavish marble decorations such as the House of Cupid and Psyche. 3. Orvieto Famous in part for its imposing cathedral, Orvieto is a charming town that boasts a wide collection of mosaics and frescoes from within breath-taking surroundings. The city’s underground tunnels were carved from the volcanic rock upon which Orvieto sits around 3,000 years ago and contain stairways, quarries and even large rooms. A true gateway to the past, this subterranean labyrinth is certainly worth a day trip. 4. Hadrian’s Villa Hadrian’s Villa is located in the small but beautiful town of Tivoli on the opposite side from the Villa d’Este, meaning that both villas can be enjoyed in a single day trip. There are around thirty ancient Roman structures housed within the Hadrian’s Villa complex, originally built for Emperor Hadrian as a means of escaping the bustling capital city. Home to several hundred acres of marble pavements as well as temples, baths and theatres, Hadrian’s Villa is a window into the past that will tingle the taste buds of all history lovers.
5. Positano Positano is a truly delightful seaside village on the Amalfi Coast that represents the perfect place for a beachside respite from the big city. Known for its colorful houses and pebble beaches, it is an ideal location for a spot of sunbathing or even a little mountain nature walking. Easily reached via ferry from Salerno, Positano is a great way to diversify an otherwise citycentered trip. Rome is an undeniably stunning city with a huge number of churches, monuments, museums and galleries to explore. If, however, you like the idea of venturing slightly further afield, why not visit one of these lesser-known gems? Aside from visiting these hidden gem staying in owners direct Italy could make the perfect addition to your Italian sojourn.