Explore greater Rome with no less than 20 day trips from Rome by train. Head into the Lazio province and even get a taste of what nearby Umbria and Tuscany have to offer, all in under 2 hour train ride from the capital.
Rome is my absolute favorite city in Italy, scratch that, the world. The history, beauty, slightly rough around the edges locals, and a neverending stream of glorious Roman ruins to visit means I keep coming back for more.
Yet, sometimes one needs a respite from the oppressive throngs of tourists. Good thing there are plenty of things to do outside of Rome! Read on to find the easiest day trips from Rome without a car, or an expensive tour guide. These can all be undertaken by yourself, simply by hopping on the most sustainable form of transport, a train!
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Where to Go From Rome by Train?
Upon researching places to go outside of Rome, I stumbled upon many articles advising travelers to go to the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre and even Venice on a day trip from Rome. Let’s be realistic here, these places are not day trips. The majority of your time will be spent in transport, leaving precious little time to actually explore.
I firmly believe in quality over quantity. There are plenty of great one-day trips from Rome that do not involve endless travel time. A two-hour radius from Rome gives you access to awesome hiking, renaissance palaces, medieval castles, tiny villages and abundant UNESCO world heritage.
And the best news of all, is that you can visit them all by yourself. Here and there I have sprinkled in recommendations for day tours, just to make sure you have a complete overview of the various options available.
20 Day Trips from Rome by Train
As much as I would have loved to see all these places near Rome myself, there are still a few I have not made it to just yet. To ensure you have the best, first-hand information, I enlisted the help of a few fellow travel bloggers to create the most comprehensive list of realistic train trips from Rome.
4 Train Trips From Rome Under One Hour From the City
1. FRASCATI
Explored by Caroline from VeggieWayfarer
Why go to Frascati from Rome: The village is one of the quickest and most hassle-free Rome day trips by train covered in this article. It is a typical Roman Castelli, a group of communes in metropolitan Rome where in times past noblemen of Rome came to get away from the blistering heat of Rome.
What to do in Frascati: Located a mere 20 km from Rome in the Alban hills lie a number of Roman Castelli, Frascati being the most picturesque. The village is tiny but is home to the magnificent Villa Aldobrandini with its extravagant gardens. It is still privately owned by the eponymous family, meaning the villa itself is closed, however, the gardens can be visited freely.
Combine a visit to the gardens with a local culinary tour. Learn how to make fresh pasta, take an e-bike tour around the various local vineyards and embark on a wine tasting (highly recommend this activity!)
How to get there from Rome: Take the direct regional train between Roma Termini and Frascati. The train ride takes around 30 minutes. Tickets cost €2.10 (US$3) one way.
RECOMMENDED LOCALLY RUN TOUR | Frascati is surrounded by vineyards, making it the perfect spot to try some local wine and embark on a tranquil culinary tour with a knowledgeable local guide.
2. ALBANO LAZIALE
Explored by Caroline from VeggieWayfarer
Why go to Albano Laziale: Located at just 25 kilometers from Rome, Albano Laziale is one of the historic Castelli Romani. Tiny villages in the hills surrounding Rome where noble families of old built their castles (Castelli) to enjoy cooler temperatures in summer.
What to do in Albano Laziale: The little village itself is, truth be told, nothing special. What makes the trip worth it however is the location right near the Albano Lake. Much like its neighboring village Castel Gandolfo, it is the perfect place to cool off in the summer months by taking a refreshing dip in the lake.
Alternatively, hikers can walk the 9.7km (6 mi) around the hike or head into the Alban hills on a longer hike. Check out the various hiking options and routes online.
How to get there from Rome: Albano Laziale is a comfortable 55 min train trip from Rome. The regional train runs multiple times an hour from Roma Termini and costs €2.10 (US$3) one way. Check timetables and book online via the Omio platform.
TIME SAVER | Want to squeeze in various Castelli Romani into a day trip? Consider investing in day tour from Rome that combines Albano Laziale, Castel Gandolfo, Frascati and Arrici.
3. CASTEL GANDOLFO
Explored by Caroline from VeggieWayfarer
Why go to Castel Gandolfo from Rome: Overlooking Lago Albano, 25 kilometers outside of Rome lies the former summer residence of the Pope. Castel Gandolfo is another one of the Castelli Romani villages. Until 2014 the Pontifical villa was closed to the public, but since then visitors can take a peek at the magnificent gardens and the impressive private apartments.
What to do in Castel Gandolfo: Tour the former Pontifical villa and gardens in Castel Gandolfo. The gardens and private apartments of the Pope can only be visited with a guide, while the villa itself is free to enter for anyone with a valid ticket. The gardens are absolutely spectacular, but tend to be very popular so be sure to book the earliest slot available.
Time permitting, you can also walk down to the lake (a 20-minute walk from the village) to swim, sunbathe, and kayak. We unfortunately were not able to squeeze this into our schedule, but if you have a full day then it could easily be combined.
Where to eat in Castel Gandolfo: We opted for a local restaurant with views over the lake, il Grottino. The food was not bad, the views were unbeatable.
How to get there from Rome: Take the direct regional train between Roma Termini and Castel Gandolfo. The train ride takes around 45 min, after which a short 10-minute hike uphill will bring you to the entrance of the Castle. Tickets cost €2.10 (US$3) one way.
GET YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE | Purchase your tickets for both the villa and the gardens in advance as there are limited slots available and they tend to sell out fast, especially during the summer months.
4. ANZIO
Explored by Madison from Madisonsfootsteps
Why go to Anzio: Anzio offers the perfect beach near Rome. It is easy and budget-friendly to get to and offers a welcome escape from the sometimes oppressive heat of the city. There’s no excuse not to lather on the sunscreen and to head out.
What to do in Anzio: Although Italy is known for rocky beaches in tourist hot spots like the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre, you won’t find any rocks on this beach. Anzio’s coastline is all clear, white-sand and turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place to relax by the ocean with a book or go for a swim in the shallow, warm waters.
While you’re in town, be sure to save some time to explore the grotte di Nerone (the caves of Nero). These caves and tunnels on the beach are part of the ancient villa built by the Roman Emperor, Nero.
Where to eat in Anzio: Romolo al Porto. The restaurant is known to have some of the freshest fish in Italy.
How to get there from Rome: Direct train from Roma Termini to Villa Claudia (Anzio). Travel time is just short of one hour. Ticket prices cost €4 ($5) each way. Check the train schedule and purchase tickets online.
PROLONG YOUR STAY | There is always to the option to stay an extra day and explore a truly off-the-beaten-path part of Italy, the pristine Ponce island with its rugged coastline and awesome snorkeling.
14 Rome Day Trips by Train Between 1 and 2 Hours
5. ANGUILLARA SABAZIA
Explored by Annalisa of Travel Connect Experience
Why go to Anguillara Sabazia: Anguilarra Sabazia is one of the lesser-known places to visit near Rome by train. Anguillara, as the locals call it, overlooks the southern shore of Lake Bracciano, one of the cleanest lakes in the country, and one of the nicest natural landmarks in Italy.
What to do in Anguillara Sabazia: Once you arrive in town of Anguillara Sabazia, begin the tour of the historic center by entering through the town’s ancient gate, Porta Maggiore or di Castello. Then you will find yourself in front of the Renaissance-era Town Hall and the 19th-century Fountain of the Earth.
Behind the fountain is one of the most picturesque views of Lake Bracciano. At this point, you will feel like going down the stairs from the historic center to the pier and diving into the lake but wait a little longer. Next to the town hall are steps leading to the Torrione Gardens, which take you to the ancient watchtower. From there, you have an even more beautiful view.
Yet there is another even more scenic spot, which you can reach by walking 5 minutes, and that is the small piazza where the church of S.M. Assunta stands. From there, begin the downhill walk to the Piazza del Molo, the liveliest place in Anguillara.
Where to eat in Anguillara Sabazia: If you want to taste something really local, such as fried lake fish or pasta with fish sauce, go to Toto Friggitoria Pescheria. Breakfast with a view can be had in Bar Gelateria Principe, alongside the lakefront promenade.
How to get there from Rome: To reach Anguillara, take a Trenitalia regional train to Anguillara from one of the following stations: Rome Trastevere, Rome Ostiense or Rome Valle Aurelia. The trip takes between 40 and 50 minutes, while the ticket costs about €3 (US$4).
LOCAL TIP: If you visit Anguillara in the summer, the best thing to do is to take a dip in the refreshing, crystal-clear waters of Lake Bracciano. Doing so will be easy because free beaches or beaches with beach clubs can be reached with a walk of just 10 minutes from the town’s historic center.
6. REGGIA DI CASERTA (ROYAL PALACE OF CASERTA)
Explored by Caroline from VeggieWayfarer
Why go to Reggia di Caserta: Reggia di Caserta or the Royal Palace of Caserta was constructed in the 18th century for the Bourbon kings of Naples, it was designed to rival Versailles. With its grand architecture and sprawling gardens, it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors from around the globe.
What to do in Reggia di Caserta: Spend the day visiting the colossal Royal Palace of Caserta. While I have seen many tours advertising a joint tour of the palace and Pompeii in one day, honestly I do not think this is feasible. The castle and the grounds themselves will take you more than half a day to properly visit.
Where to eat in Reggia di Caserta: Diana & Atteone Restaurant which uses typical local products.
How to get there from Rome: Take the high-speed frecciarossa from Rome Termini to Caserta and walk 500 meters to get to the entrance of the palace. Total travel time is a little over one hour. Tickets start at €35 (US$40) one way. Check tickets and book online.
FOR ART LOVERS: If you are a history buff who happens to love art, then splurge on a guided tour of the royal palace with a dedicated Art Expert. If not, simply purchase the entrance tickets online and use the very complete audio guide to tour the grounds and palace.
7. VILLA D’ESTE
Explored by Caroline from VeggieWayfarer
Why go to Villa d’Este from Rome: The UNESCO-classified Villa d’Este has the most spectacular frescoes and enormous gardens filled with beautiful fountains.
What to do in Villa d’Este: Visit the Villa d’Este, a renowned Renaissance villa. Constructed in the 16th century for Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este, the villa became a symbol of the Renaissance’s grandeur. Tickets need to be purchased in advance as limited spots are available and do tend to sell out in the summer months.
Tip: Grab a combo ticket for Villa d’Este, Villa Adriana and lesser known Sanctuary of Hercules Victor. It is cheaper than purchasing each ticket individually.
How to get there from Rome: Direct trains run between Roma Termini and Tivolo. The train ride itself is 40 minutes, after which a 15 min walk will take you from the station to the entrance of the Villa. Tickets cost €3.6 (US$4) each way.
Alternatively, grab a bus at the Rome Ponte Mammolo train station and get off at the Tivoli, Piazzale Nazioni Unite stop. This route takes roughly one hour and costs €1.50 (US$2) each way. Check timetables for trains and buses & purchase tickets online.
TOURS | Villa Adriana & Villa d’Este can be easily combined in one day tour. Getting there from Rome and then traveling between both locations requires taking a couple of local buses. Alternatively, book a great value-for-money tour including the entrance fee, lunch and transport from Rome.
8. VILLA ADRIANA (HADRIAN’S VILLA)
Explored by Caroline from VeggieWayfarer
Why go to Villa Adriana from Rome: Villa Adriana is one of my favorite train trips from Rome. These ruins were once a Roman villa complex built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. They were buried under mounds of sand until an archaeologist stumbled upon them in the 18th century.
What to do in Villa Adriana: Walk around the 120 acres of terrain dotted with magnificent ruins, including temples, palaces, thermal baths, and gardens. What I loved most is the fact you can actually walk inside the various ruins, on the very floor the ancient Romans walked on thousands of years ago.
How to get there from Rome: We opted to combine Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana in the same day trip. To get to both villa’s you take the same bus from Rome. Departing at the Rome Ponte Mammolo train station, for Villa Adriana you get off at Tivoli Via Tiburtina Via Serena, from here a 15-minute walk brings you to the entrance gate of Villa Adriana. This route will take one hour and costs €1.50 (US$2)
Alternatively, first visit Villa d’Este, then hop on the CAT bus which drops you right at the entrance of Villa Adriana. Sit tight, a dedicated blog post on this day trip from Rome is coming soon!
TOURS | Villa Adriana & Villa d’Este can be easily combined in one day tour. Getting there from Rome and then traveling between both locations requires taking a couple of local buses. Alternatively, book a great value-for-money tour including the entrance fee, lunch and transport from Rome.
9. LAGO BRACCIANO
Explored by Joanna from Theworldinmypocket
Why go to Lago Bracciano: Looking into what to do around Rome to escape the summer heat? Lago Bracciona is the perfect day trip for you. The lake combined with the village offer the perfect blend of sightseeing and relaxing.
What to do in Lago Bracciano: There are quite a few things to do in Bracciano on a day trip from Rome. Get lost in the medieval village of Braciano, and explore the 15th-century Orsini-Odescalchi Castle (entrance fee €10). Fun fact this castle was catapulted to fame internationally when Tom Cruise married Katie Holmes here.
The eponymous lake serves as a natural reservoir for the city of Rome, meaning no motorboats can sail in the waters making it an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing. The keen eye will spot the black sand on the shores, this comes from the fact the lake is in fact volcanic.
What to eat in Lago Bracciano: Trattoria del Castello – it overlooks the castle and serves a delicious local Roman specialty: Pasta alla gricia
How to get there from Rome: Take the train from Roma Valle Aurelia station rather than Tiburtina, where the train originates. This is because Tiburtina is harder to get to than Valle Aurelia which is very central. Tickets to Bracciano cost €2.6 (US$3) each way. Check timetables.
10. OSTIA
Recommended by Sydney of Sydney to Anywhere
Why go to Ostia: One of the best places to see near Rome is without a doubt Ostia. Take a break from the busy city to explore ancient ruins and relax by the sea. Located just 30 kilometers southwest of Rome, Ostia Antica is easily accessible by public transportation.
What to do in Ostia: When you arrive, you’ll find yourself in Ostia Antica, an ancient port city that once served as Rome’s main harbor. This lesser-known archaeological site is fascinating and even rivals Pompeii in terms of how well-preserved it is. Get tickets in advance and avoid the crowds.
After soaking in Ostia’s noteworthy history, head towards the coast to enjoy the area’s beautiful beaches. The Lido di Ostia beach stretches for miles and offers a perfect spot to relax and sunbathe.
What to eat in Ostia: For a quick bite, try some delicious Roman street food such as supplì (fried rice balls with cheese) or pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice). If you prefer a sit-down meal, opt for one of the traditional trattorias and feel like your most Italian self. Officina Culinaria, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Italian dishes and lovely terrace, comes highly recommended!
How to get there from Rome: To reach Ostia, you can take the Roma-Lido train from the Porta San Paolo station in Rome. The train ride takes approximately 40 minutes, and tickets cost around €1.50 (US$2) each way. From Roma Termini, the total travel time is 1h20.
TOURS | Alternatively, hop on a day tour from Rome which includes transport to Ostia, skip-the-line tickets for Ostia Antica and a guided tour of the archaeological sites.
11. ORVIETO
Recommended by Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer
Why go to Orvieto: The city is one of the many places near Rome worth visiting. In fact, the whole city has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Combine that with mouthwatering Truffle Pasta and you have an awesome day trip.
What to do in Orvieto: The number one thing to do in Orvieto is to explore the magnificent Cathedral. probably the single most impressive cathedral I have ever seen! Next, discover the fascinating underground city and the Pozzo della Cava
Stroll through the medieval streets of the historical center, visit the Etruscan Necropolis, an ancient burial site, and, time permitting, visit the Papal Palace and admire the medieval frescoes.
What & where to eat in Orvieto: Orvieto is the Umbria region of Italy where the specialty is cured meats and truffles. Read more about traditional Umbrian cuisine.
How to get there from Rome: Take the regional train between Roma Termini station and Orvieto (1 hour journey) followed by the scenic funicular ride connecting Orvieto Station to the entrance of the Historical Center. The funicular ride is a blissful 5-minutes. Door to door the journey will take just shy of 1h30.
The train ride will set you back €9.15 (US$11) one way while the funicular costs around €1.3 (US$2).
READ | 10 Picturesque Villages in Umbria
12. SPOLETO
Recommended by Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer
Why go to Spoleto: Spoleto is one of the most underrated side trips from Rome. This hamlet is perched on the side of a cliff and is slightly more off the beaten path, making it wonderful to explore even in summer (when we decided to go!).
What to do in Spoleto: The village is a treasure trove of little alleyways filled with Roman arches, a Romanesque cathedral, and tiny local eateries. All this is protected by a large medieval fortress and surprisingly intact medieval city walls.
Tip: Just outside of Spoleto you can find the impressive Marmore Falls, a 2000-year-old man-made waterfall with its very own working hours. Getting there via public transport however from Spoleto is virtually impossible if you are on a day trip as it will mean an extra 4 hours of travel time.
What & where to eat in Spoleto: Make sure to try to local desert Crescionda from one of the many restaurants right under the medieval fortress, to enjoy the very best views over Spoleto.
How to get there from Rome: The regional train takes you direct from Roma Termini to Spoleto Train Station. Expect to spend about 1h25 on the fast train and 1h40 on the slower train. Tickets start at €10 (US$11) for the slow train and €22 (US$25) for the fast train.
READ | 10 Picturesque Villages in Umbria
13. FLORENCE (FIRENZE)
Explored by Martina from PlacesofJuma
Why go to Florence: Florence or Firenze is one of the most popular one-day trips from Rome. The city is a treasure trove of culture, Renaissance architecture and mouthwatering restaurants.
What to do in Florence: Once in Florence make a beeline for the magnificent Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo, climb to the top of the dome to enjoy the panoramic view of the city. Next peruse the Uffizi Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Renaissance artworks by famous artists such as Botticelli and Michelangelo. There is always a long queue, so however, be sure to book your ticket in advance.
Take a leisurely stroll across the famous Ponte Vecchio, and get lost in the narrow streets and charming squares of Florence’s historic center. Time permitting climb up to the Piazzale Michelangelo, grab a glass of wine and watch the best sunset over Florence.
Where & what to eat in Florence: Grab a drink in Ala Grande Caffè or try a typical Florentine schiacciata at all’antico vinaio.
How to get there from Florence: To reach Florence from Rome, it’s best to take a high-speed train from Rome’s Termini Station to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station. The trip takes about 1.5 and tickets cost around €50 (US$50) each way. Check time table and book tickets.
TOURS & SKIP THE LINE TICKETS | When we went, the tickets for the Uffizi gallery were sold out. Make sure to book them in advance! Take a guided tour & skip the huge queues for the gallery & Accademia.
14. POMPEII
Recommended by Helen of Helen on her holidays
Why go to Pompeii from Rome: Pompeii was a bustling Roman town until AD79, when the volcano Mount Vesuvius erupted. The town was buried under ash and rocks for many hundreds of years until archaeologists began excavating the site and discovered its amazingly well-preserved ruins. Today, Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe.
What to do in Pompeii: Pompeii is a huge site and can feel overwhelming, so when you visit Pompeii it’s best to get a guided tour to give you some background before you head off exploring on your own. One of the most exciting things about Pompeii is that it’s still an active archaeological site and new discoveries are being made all the time. The new ‘House of the Day’ program lets you see inside houses that aren’t usually open to the public – a different one for each day of the week.
How to get there from Rome: Pompeii is 15 miles south of Naples and is easily accessible by train. The quickest way to get to Pompeii is to take a fast Italo or Frecciarossa train to Naples then the local train to Pompeii. Total travel time around 1h40. Train tickets will cost around €60 (US$65) if booked on the day. Check timetables and book in advance via the Omio platform. There are also plenty of tours available from Rome.
Guided Tours of Pompeii: Immerse yourself in history by taking the top-rated guided tour with an archeologist through the ruins. Browse through the various tours on offer
15. FREGENE
Explored by Caroline from VeggieWayfarer
Why go to Fregene from Rome: A trip to Fregene is the local’s favorite thing to do around Rome during the summer. It is the perfect spot to escape the heat, although it is a little further out than the beach in Ostia.
What to do in Fregene: It’s all about relaxing and watersports in Fregene. This coastal town has a large stretch of pristine sandy beaches, with plenty of lidos (places renting deckchairs and umbrellas), beach bars, and even various surf schools. The town comes alive in summer and becomes very, very busy.
How to get there from Rome: Fregene is located very close to the Rome Fiumicino Airport. The fastest way to get to Fregene from Rome is to hop on a direct train from Rome Termini to Rome Fiumicino Airport (30 minutes). Tickets cost €14.5 (US$16) one way there switch to the regional bus in the direction of Viale Castellammare (18 minutes).
16. VITERBO
Recommended by Claudia from My Adventures Across The World
Why go to Viterbo from Rome: The capital of the Tuscia region, Viterbo is a beautiful medieval town entirely surrounded by walls, with gates that allow access to the historic center. A walk around Viterbo historic center is a pleasant experience in and of itself, if anything because you won’t find any of the tourist crowds of the capital.
What to do in Viterbo: Make sure to visit the Palazzo dei Papi, Viterbo’s Papal Palace. This is where the first conclave in history took place. Grab an audio guide to learn more about the town’s illustrious history.
Next to the palace, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo is also built in the typical piperino stone that characterizes most of the historic center and is one of the most beautiful churches in the city. It’s a short walk from there to San Pellegrino, the medieval quarter which is a series of cobbled narrow alleys, archways and balconies adorned with colorful flowers.
Where to eat in Viterbo: Al Vecchio Orologio, a trendy osteria that serves dishes of the local tradition such as lombrichelli pasta. There’s also Enoteca San Lorenzo, which has a smaller menu but a fantastic wine selection. Both of them are in the historic center.
How to get there from Rome: Direct trains to Viterbo Porta Romana station depart regularly from Roma Ostiense train station (nearest metro station Piramide). The journey lasts around one hour and 40 minutes and tickets are €5,60 one way.
LOCAL TIP | The boutiques that line Corso Italia are perfect for a shopping spree – and prices are a lot cheaper here than in Rome. Stock up on your souvenirs here, instead of the capital.
17. GAETA
Recommended by Merryl of Merrylstravelandtricks
Why go to Gaeta from Rome: Gaeta is a beautiful coastal town, with a wonderfully preserved historical center. It’s quaint, uncrowded, and has tons of cool watersports on offer. The ideal day trip destination from Rome or Naples.
What to do in Gaeta: Start your day trip in the historical center filled with meandering cobblestone streets, charming piazzas and medieval buildings. Keep an eye out for the Roman ruins sprinkled throughout town. Weather permitting, make the trek up Mount Orlando for stunning panoramic views of Gaeta and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea.
Head to Serapo Beach to work on your tan. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and picturesque views or sign up for a snorkeling day trip and explore the marine life here.
Where to eat: Antica Pizzeria da Ciro in Gaeta. This acclaimed pizzeria serves up mouthwatering pizzas with a wide range of toppings, showcasing the region’s culinary excellence.
How to get there from Rome: Gaeta can easily be reached from Rome by taking a train from Roma Termini to Formia-Gaeta station, followed by a short bus ride to the center. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and costs around €15 (US$17) each way + €3 (US$4) bus fare (to be paid in cash to the bus driver). Book your train tickets in advance via the Omio platform.
18. BOLOGNA
Recommended by Emma from Travelonatimebudget
Why go to Bologna: Bologna is a slightly longer train trip from Rome, but this ancient university city is oozing charm, cozy bars and the youthful energy of hundreds of students.
What to do in Bologna: The city has wonderful architecture and grand historical buildings which are best seen on a walking tour of the center. Highlights include Piazza Maggiore, with the 14th century gothic Basilica di San Petronio. Nearby is the Renaissance-style Palazzo dei Banchi, with its striking green dome, and the Palazzo del Podestà, with the Torre dell’Arengo bell tower next to it. This has a cavernous whispering gallery (Voltone del Podestà), which is known for its fantastic acoustics.
Another must is a visit to Bologna’s Two Towers (Le Due Torri), both built during the 12th century. The Asinelli Tower is the tallest (230 feet) and from a distance appears to be leaning over. You can climb it for incredible city views. And finally, time permitting visit the former Jewish Ghetto and the University district.
What to eat in Bologna: Bologna is Italy’s culinary heartland. Head to the Quadrilatero district and grab a tagliere (literally wooden plank) filled with a variety of (cured) meats and cheeses. Or delve into the local specialty: Lasagna.
How to get there from Rome: The fast Italo or Frecciarosa train Fast trains run daily. The cost of a return journey starts at around €30 (US$ 35). Total travel time is around 2 hours. Booking in advance is required, check schedules via the Omio platform.
FOODIE TIP | Bologna runs a very good value/money street food walking tour that combines food and history. This tour is less suitable for vegetarians.
2 Places to Visit Near Rome by Train Just Over 2 Hours Away
19. PISA
Explored by Kristin from Scotlandlessexplored
Why go to Pisa: The leaning tower of Pisa is such an iconic landmark in Italy that is is well worth the, slightly longer, train trip from Rome.
What to do in Pisa: The 12th-century leaning tower is an absolute highlight. Fun fact, it was meant to be much taller than it is today but it started to lean after the second story was added. It is actually the clock tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta but the tower has become much more famous than the cathedral itself. Get your tickets and book a guided tour in advance to skip the long queues.
The leaning tower might be your reason to visit Pisa but it will likely be the cathedral and the architecture of the rest of the town which is what you will remember most from your trip. Whilst exploring the town don’t miss Pallazo dei Cavalieri, Piazza dei Miracolli, Santa Maria della Spina or a walk along the river.
Where to eat in Pisa: Porci Comodi is known for its sandwiches and antipasti boards. V. Beny is a great option for fine dining.
How to get there from Rome: High-speed frecciarosa trains connect Roma Termini to Pisa Centrale. The train journey takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes one way. Ticket prices start at €30 (US$35) one way. Check timetables and purchase train tickets.
READ | Heading further North? Check out my comprehensive northern Italy itinerary for inspiration.
20. ASSISI
Explored by Caroline from Veggiewayfarer
Why go to Assisi: Assisi is the home and final resting place of Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan order. To this day the UNESCO-classified town of Assisi remains a very important pilgrimage site.
What to do in Assisi: Head to the Basilica di San Francesco where the remains of Saint Francis are buried. The frescoes inside the Basilica are absolutely astounding and could rival those of the Sistine Chapel. It’s worth investing in a guided tour of the Basilica as there is so much to see inside.
The little town is positively bursting at the seams with churches, so go on a church-hopping bonanza. Aside from the Basilica, pop into the Cathedral of San Rufino, the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Assisi and if you are up for a little walk the UNESCO-classified Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli.
Where & what to eat in Assisi: Read up on traditional Umbrian cuisine before you head out.
How to get there from Rome: From Rome Turburtina Station take the regional train direction Perugia and stop in Assisi (train journey 1h56, price €12,70 (US$ 14) one way). From the Assisi train station either walk 45 min to the historical center of Assisi or hop on a local bus that stops right in front of the Basilica (journey time 10 min).
SAVE TIME | I will not hide the fact that Assisi is a very, very long day trip from Rome if you want to take the train. But it is so spectacular, that it is truly worth visiting. GetYourGuide has a reasonably budget-friendly day tour from Rome combining Orvieto and Assisi.
The Various Train Destinations From Rome on a Map
Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where the various train trips from Rome discussed above are located. Yellow pins are places near Rome reachable in under one hour, red pins are reachable between one and two hours and the green pins are slightly longer than 2 hours.
Where to Stay in Rome
Spending a few days exploring in and around Rome and looking for a locally run hotel to sleep in? Here are my favorite hotels, for various budgets. Or browse various hotels in Rome available.
Courtesy of booking.com
RECOMMENDED: Roma Suite Monti
A no-nonsense hotel with the absolute best location in the trendy Monti neighborhood. Great value for money and the exact hotel where I stay every time I visit Rome.
Location: 10-minute walk from the Colosseum
Courtesy of booking.com
GREEN HOTEL: Bio Hotel Raphael
Hotel Raphael has the very best vegetarian and biological restaurants in the city on a beautiful panoramic rooftop. They conscientiously use natural materials throughout their hotel, including a magnificent large ivy-covered façade.
Location: Around the corner from Piazza Navona
Courtesy of booking.com
LUXURY WITH A VIEW: Palazzo Manfredi
This 5-star hotel has the absolute best location and views over the Colosseum. The trendy rooftop cocktail bar is an absolute added bonus.
Location: Right opposite the Colosseum
Train Travel from Rome – The Practicalities
Types of Trains to Take From Rome
REGIONAL TRAIN (L): A slower train that makes stops at all stations between the larger cities. The include the InterRegionale (IR), Regionale (R), Diretto (D), and Espresso (E). Tickets can be bought right before boarding the train, and are much cheaper than the below options.
INTERCITY (IC): A fast train that connects larger cities. They usually cover the same route as the below AV trains but are a bit slower, and cheaper. makes limited stops between the larger cities. Tickets can be bought right before boarding the train, no prior reservation needed.
HIGH SPEED TRAINS (AV): The alta velocità or high-speed trains are the fastest trains run by TrenItalia. These trains require a reservation in advance and are usually more expensive. The trains include:
- Frecciarossa – The “red arrow” trains, the fastest of the bunch serving Turin, Milan, Bologna, Rome, Naples, and Salerno.
- Frecciargente – The “silver arrow” trains, serving Rome, Venice, Verona, Bari/Lecce, and Lamezia Terme/Reggio Calabria.
- Frecciabianca – The “white arrow” trains, serving Milan, Venice, Udine, Trieste, Genoa, Rome, Bari, and Lecce.
ITALO TRAINS: Are run by a privately owned company and are comparable in price to the AV trains. They have more amenities (free wifi, “no sound” car, etc.) and need to be booked in advance. Italo trains serve Milan, Venice, Padua, Rimini, Bologna, Pesaro, Ancona, Florence, Turin, Rome, Salerno, and Naples.
Purchasing Tickets & Taking the Train in Rome
How to purchase train tickets
Traveling around Rome on the train requires you to purchase tickets in advance. For regional trains, this can be done via the TrenItalia website or in the station from one of the red vending machines (pictured above). Make sure you are buying a ticket from a TrenItalia vending machine and not the Italo vending machine (which also happens to be red and can therefore be a bit confusing).
Types of train tickets in Italy
There are four types of train tickets in Italy. Super Economy, Economy, Base, and Ordinaria. The first three are available for all high-speed and Intercity trains, while Ordinaria is only valid for the regional trains. For most of the train trips in Rome covered above the Ordinaria fare is applicable.
Finding the right track
“Binari” is the Italian word for tracks and “ai treni” directly translates into “to the trains”. Around Roma Termini Train Station most signs are in both Italian and English. Inside the main entrance hall, a large digital panel indicates the train number, destination, and track.
Useful information: Check the latest timetables and book your tickets for both domestic and international trains online.
Where to Store Your Luggage When Exploring Places Around Rome
If you are traveling around Italy and want to embark on a day trip from Rome, without having to bring all your luggage along, there are tons of cheap luggage storage options available.
INSIDE ROME TERMINI STATION: Follow the signs for Baggage Storage which lead you to the Kipoint luggage facility (pictured left). The last luggage dropoff and pickup is at 08.30 pm, open 7/7. Please note very large-size bags are not accepted. Prices start at €10/day. Book online to skip the line.
OTHER LUGGAGE STORAGE IN ROME: Just outside of Termini Station (starting from €7/day, pictured above right), near the Vatican Museum (starting €8/day), near Piazza Navona (starting €8/day) or near the Colosseum (starting €8/day)
Train Trips From Rome Tips
Can I take a day trip from Rome to Positano?
Travel time between Rome and Positano is at least 3h20, each way. Despite this being a highly popular guided day trip from Rome, personally I would try and spend at least 2 days exploring the Amalfi Coast and Positano.
Can I take a day trip from Rome to Venice?
If you are relying on public transportation the honest answer is, no it’s not realistic. A one-way trip takes close to 4 hours, meaning there and back is 8 hours of public transport. Skip the expensive tours, you will be spending more time on the train than actually exploring beautiful Rome.
Is it worth getting rail passes in Italy if I plan on making a few day trips from Rome?
No, the interrail pass is considerably more expensive. Starting at €133 for 3 days of travel, which equates to €44 a day. Unless you are thinking of taking the, more expensive, high-speed Frecciarossa trains it is cheaper to stick to booking individual tickets.
What is the difference between ItaliaRail and Trenitalia?
Trenitalia is owned by the Italian government and as such the main train operator in Italy. ItaliaRail sells Trenitalia tickets and is privately owned.
Do they check train tickets in Italy?
Yes! Every time I have taken a train in Italy, my ticket has been checked on the train.
The Best Day Trips to Take From Rome via Public Transport
My top five places to visit near Rome are Villa Adriana, Assisi, Reggia di Casserta, Pompeii, and Castel Gandolfo. Each of these places can be easily reached by Rome, leaving you with plenty of time to explore and learn about their plentiful history.
If I was really pinched for time then I would definitely consider taking a day trip from Rome by train to Florence. While one day in Florence is not enough to really see everything that is on offer, it gives visitors a taste of Renaissance grandeur and the beauty of Tuscany. The high-speed, direct train connection makes travel between the cities an absolute breeze.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING ITALY
FOOD: Vegetarian Food Guide to Italy
NORTHERN ITALY: Awesome 2-Week Northern Italy Itinerary
NORTHERN ITALY: Where to Stay in the Dolomites
NORTHERN ITALY: Sustainable Guide to South Tyrol
SICILY: Local Guide to Palermo
SICILY: Where to Stay in Sicily
Day trips from Rome by train: Pin it
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