Top Five Day Trips from Rome

While studying abroad in Rome, you can experience so many other exciting places with minimal time and cost! Check out the underground caves of Orvieto, enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Bracciano, and so much more. Check them out during a free weekend or maybe even after class!

Tivoli

Located just about 40 minutes from Rome, Tivoli is home to two beautiful historical sites: Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa. Villa d’Este has stunning Renaissance gardens and fountains, reflecting the beauty of 16th-century Italian landscaping. Hadrian’s Villa, built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, was an imperial retreat featuring palaces, baths, and temples inspired by Greek and Egyptian architecture. There are also beautiful waterfalls that can be accessed through a quick hike. Tivoli offers a blend of artistic, historical, and natural beauty. It was my favorite day trip out of Rome.

Orvieto

Orvieto is a stunning hilltop town in Umbria, about 90 minutes from Rome, known for its history and breathtaking views. Its most famous landmark, the Orvieto Cathedral, is a beautiful cathedral with a lot of history. Inside, the frescoes by Luca Signorelli are must-see. Beneath the town lies an underground cave system, used for centuries as storage, escape routes, and even medieval olive oil mills. Another highlight is the Pozzo di San Patrizio, a deep well with a unique staircase built in the 16th century. My CIS group and I went to Orvieto, and we had a blast. Between these three things, it makes up for a great day.

Pompeii

Pompeii is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world, offering a rare glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome. The city was buried under volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, preserving homes, streets, frescoes, and even the remains of its inhabitants. Walking through Pompeii, you can see public baths, an amphitheater, and well-preserved villas with intricate mosaics. The plaster casts of victims frozen in time add a reminder of the city’s tragic end. Located about two hours from Rome by train, Pompeii is a good visit for history enthusiasts looking to explore one of the most significant remnants of the ancient world.

Lake Bracciano

Lake Bracciano, located about an hour from Rome, is a perfect destination for a relaxing day trip. Surrounded by picturesque medieval towns, the lake offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and lakeside dining. I never got to swim in the lake as it was too cold, but just looking at it was impressive enough. One of the main historical highlights is Castello Orsini-Odescalchi, an impressive Renaissance castle overlooking the lake. This fortress played a significant role in history, serving as a summer residence for several popes. The castle’s well-preserved interiors showcase grand halls, papal chambers, and medieval artifacts.

Ostia Antica

Located just 30 minutes from Rome, Ostia Antica is one of Italy’s best-preserved ancient sites. Once a thriving port city of the Roman Empire, it now stands as an open-air museum with remarkably intact ruins. Visitors can walk through its ancient streets and explore bathhouses, an amphitheater, and residential buildings with original mosaics. The site provides valuable insights into everyday Roman life, from marketplaces to communal latrines. This site is very comparable to Pompeii, but it will be less busy and not as big.

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Blog by Adam Witty
Semester in Rome - American University of Rome Spring 2024
Global Outreach Leader Spring 2025