ITALY RAILWAY BLOG
Best Day Trips from Rome: Unforgettable Escapes Near the Eternal City
Rome is filled with treasures at every corner, but its location also makes it the perfect starting point for exploring central Italy.
Thanks to Italy’s excellent rail network, many remarkable destinations are less than two hours away, offering an easy escape from the city’s lively streets. Planning a few day trips from Rome is a great way to experience more of the country’s history, landscapes, and culture without changing hotels.
Many travelers choose to combine several day trips into a larger itinerary that shows them the country beyond the capital. If you want to make it simple, curated programs from tour operators that organise tours to Italy can help you enjoy these destinations without the stress of planning every detail yourself.
Lazio Region
Easy and quick train access, ideal for half-day or short full-day trips.
Umbria Region
Great for history, spirituality, and medieval charm. About 1.5–2 hours by train.
Tuscany Region
A bit farther (2+ hours) but rewarding for wine, scenery, and architecture.
Top Historical and Cultural Day Trips
Top Historical and Cultural Day Trips
Tivoli's Villa d’Este
1. Tivoli
Just 40 minutes from Rome by train, Tivoli is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Villa d’Este with its ornate fountains and Renaissance gardens, and Hadrian’s Villa, the vast imperial retreat of Emperor Hadrian.
This elegant hill town blends Roman history with scenic beauty, making it one of the best day trips from Rome for art and architecture lovers.
Just 40 minutes from Rome by train, Tivoli is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Villa d’Este with its ornate fountains and Renaissance gardens, and Hadrian’s Villa, the vast imperial retreat of Emperor Hadrian.
This elegant hill town blends Roman history with scenic beauty, making it one of the best day trips from Rome for art and architecture lovers.
2. Ostia Antica
Less than an hour away, Ostia Antica offers a glimpse into ancient Roman life without the crowds. Once the bustling port of Rome, its remarkably preserved streets, mosaics, and amphitheatre bring the past to life.
It’s an ideal day trip for anyone seeking ancient history just outside the city.
Archaeological Roman Empire street view in Ostia Antica
Magnificent views from Orvieto
3. Orvieto
Perched high on a volcanic cliff in the region of Umbria, Orvieto is about 90 minutes from Rome by train and feels like stepping back in time. The town greets visitors with breathtaking views as they ascend by funicular from the station to its medieval center, where narrow lanes wind between ancient stone houses and hidden piazzas.
Its crown jewel is the magnificent Orvieto Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with an intricately decorated façade and vibrant frescoes inside. Beneath the streets lies a maze of Etruscan-era tunnels, wells, and caves that reveal Orvieto’s ancient past.
Perched high on a volcanic cliff in the region of Umbria, Orvieto is about 90 minutes from Rome by train and feels like stepping back in time. The town greets visitors with breathtaking views as they ascend by funicular from the station to its medieval center, where narrow lanes wind between ancient stone houses and hidden piazzas.
Its crown jewel is the magnificent Orvieto Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with an intricately decorated façade and vibrant frescoes inside. Beneath the streets lies a maze of Etruscan-era tunnels, wells, and caves that reveal Orvieto’s ancient past.
4. Assisi
Located in the heart of Umbria and just about two hours from Rome by train, Assisi is best known as the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, one of Italy’s most beloved saints.
The highlight is the magnificent Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site decorated with remarkable frescoes by early Renaissance masters like Giotto di Bondone. Other sacred landmarks include the Basilica of Santa Chiara and the ancient San Damiano convent. Beyond its spiritual heritage, Assisi offers sweeping views of the Umbrian countryside, peaceful gardens, and inviting trattorias serving regional specialties.
Located in the heart of Umbria and just about two hours from Rome by train, Assisi is best known as the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, one of Italy’s most beloved saints.
The highlight is the magnificent Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site decorated with remarkable frescoes by early Renaissance masters like Giotto di Bondone. Other sacred landmarks include the Basilica of Santa Chiara and the ancient San Damiano convent. Beyond its spiritual heritage, Assisi offers sweeping views of the Umbrian countryside, peaceful gardens, and inviting trattorias serving regional specialties.
Basilica di San Francesco d'Assisi
Scenic and Relaxing Rome Day Trips
Scenic and Relaxing Rome Day Trips
Less than an hour from Rome, Lake Bracciano is surrounded by charming lakeside towns and overlooked by a medieval castle. Visitors can stroll the promenade, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply relax by the water. Another recommended stop would be Castel Gandolfo. Set above the sparkling waters of Lake Albano, Castel Gandolfo is the Pope’s summer retreat.
Just 45 minutes from Rome, it offers peaceful gardens, sweeping lake views, and a refreshing break from the city’s energy. And lastly, accessible by a scenic train-and-bus combination, Civita di Bagnoregio is a breathtaking medieval village perched on a cliff. Known as “the dying city,” it enchants visitors with cobbled lanes, stone houses, and dramatic views.
Castel Gandolfo with the Albano Lake view
Food and Wine Escapes Near Rome
Food and Wine Escapes Near Rome
Village of Montepulciano with wonderful architecture and houses
1. Frascati. Only 30 minutes by train, Frascati is famous for its crisp white wines and traditional Roman cuisine. The town’s welcoming trattorias and local vineyards make it a delicious and easy escape.
2. Viterbo. About 90 minutes from Rome, Viterbo is known for its thermal baths, medieval center, and hearty northern Lazio dishes. It’s ideal for travelers looking to pair relaxation with authentic flavors.
3. Montepulciano. Although slightly further (about 2 hours by train), Montepulciano is a Tuscan gem celebrated for its Vino Nobile and Renaissance architecture. It’s a rewarding day trip for wine enthusiasts seeking beautiful countryside views.
2. Viterbo. About 90 minutes from Rome, Viterbo is known for its thermal baths, medieval center, and hearty northern Lazio dishes. It’s ideal for travelers looking to pair relaxation with authentic flavors.
3. Montepulciano. Although slightly further (about 2 hours by train), Montepulciano is a Tuscan gem celebrated for its Vino Nobile and Renaissance architecture. It’s a rewarding day trip for wine enthusiasts seeking beautiful countryside views.
How to Plan Day Trips from Rome
How to Plan Day Trips from Rome
Planning ahead helps make the most of your day trips. Italy’s rail network is fast, reliable, and ideal for reaching most nearby towns, with frequent departures from Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina stations. Booking train tickets in advance can secure better fares, especially for longer routes like Assisi or Montepulciano.
Start your day early to enjoy plenty of sightseeing time and consider traveling light with just a day bag. If you prefer a more structured experience, guided tours can be a convenient way to explore multiple highlights without having to handle logistics yourself.
Roma Termini station on a map
Tips for Stress-Free Rome Day Trips
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One destinationStick to one destination per day to avoid rushing. -
Water & snacksBring water and light snacks to keep energy levels up. -
Check schedulesCheck train return times in advance, especially for smaller towns. -
Carry a chargerCarry a portable phone charger to keep maps and tickets accessible all day. -
Reserve ticketsReserve entry tickets to popular attractions in advance to save time on arrival. -
Have cashKeep some cash on hand for small local cafés or taxis.
With fast train connections, visiting nearby towns and landscapes is one of the most rewarding parts of a Roman holiday. These Rome day trips offer a deeper look at Italy’s heritage with a little planning beforehand. For travelers who want to explore beyond the Eternal City while keeping the experience seamless, Italy tour packages offer customizable journeys that include many of these unforgettable escapes.