Italy's ancient capital Rome, considered the cradle of Western civilization, is located in the Lazio region, close to the center of Italy's boot-shaped peninsula. Although there is much to see and do in Rome, visitors sometimes overlook that it is an ideal hub for exploring the beautiful cities surrounding Rome. Rome is a perfect center for day trips by train to some of Italy's most beautiful and often overlooked tourist destinations, such as Orvieto, Naples, Florence, Pisa, Ostia, Santa Marinella, and Civitavecchia. Now let's discover the best day trips from Rome. Also, don't forget to check out my previous post on the best day trips from Milan and my guide on the best things to do in Rome.

Image by Valter Cirillo

1. Orvieto

If you are interested in visiting an ancient Italian city with beautiful views from the Etruscan period, a day trip to Orvieto would be a good idea. The city, located on a wide, flat hill made of volcanic rocks, is surrounded by walls and has a complex underground cave and tunnel network that has been used from the Etruscan period to the Middle Ages. Enjoy a pleasant day in this walkable city by savoring the beautiful architecture, the lovely ceramics displayed in charming shops, and the peaceful landscapes of the Umbrian countryside. The Orvieto Cathedral, adorned with mosaics in tones of gold and precious stones, is one of Italy's most beautiful cathedrals, featuring reliefs depicting scenes from the Old Testament on its facade. Don't miss Scalza's Pieta, a sculpture that is both impressive and emotional. Other places like the St. Patrick's Well, Orvieto Underground, and the Etruscan Museum are also enjoyable spots to spend your day.

Where to Eat in Orvieto

Using seasonal ingredients, Trattoria del Moro Aronne offers great pasta dishes in a warm atmosphere. Nidi di Rondine is a must-try. Febo, a modern restaurant located in the center of Orvieto, and brewpub is also highly recommended.

How to Get There by Train

Trenitalia operates train services from Rome Termini to Orvieto every 4 hours. The travel time is 1 hour and 16 minutes. Ticket prices range from €8 to €16.

2. Naples

Naples, the regional capital of Campania, is a city known for its famous Neapolitan pizza and is only 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Rome by high-speed train. Naples offers many attractions, including a beautiful crescent-shaped coastline, deep blue sea views, historic castles, world-famous pizzas, and desserts, all accompanied by the impressive sight of Mount Vesuvius. While exploring throughout the day, don’t forget to sit in a café in a square and enjoy a frothy cappuccino and a Sfogliatella filled with rich ricotta. The interior of Naples Cathedral is filled with the most beautiful frescoed domes in the Royal Chapel. Soft tones of blue, white, gold, and many colors depict scenes from holy books. For the best view of the city, take the lift to Vomero Hill and enjoy the view of the distant rooftops from Castel Sant'Elmo. For more city views, visit Piazza del Plebiscito, home to the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola; this structure resembles Rome's Pantheon, and the Naples Royal Palace, which is now a museum, is also located here. The nearby Galleria Umberto I shopping center will enchant you, raising your eyes to the heights of its steel and glass domed ceiling. Don’t forget to use the metro line, which is quite efficient for getting around the city.

Where to Eat in Naples

Stop by Gran Caffe Gambrinus for coffee and sweets. For pizza, L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele is an absolute must. The Pizza Napoletana at Gino e Toto Sorbillo is also fantastic.

How to Get There by Train

There are high-speed trains between Rome and Naples. The 140-mile journey can be completed in 1 hour and 10 minutes, with ticket prices starting at just €15.

3. Florence

Florence is best explored on foot, and if you're considering a walking tour of the city, you can start your tour at the Duomo Square, admiring the beautiful pink and green façade with its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi. Giotto's Campanile is a freestanding bell tower in the typical Florentine Gothic architectural style and is adjacent to the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, which showcases many works of art from the Florence Cathedral. The entrance fee for this UNESCO World Heritage complex (Duomo, Campanile, and Museo dell’Opera del Duomo) is 15 Euros. The house-museum of Dante Alighieri, the author of the Divine Comedy, is another must-visit place. This house was built on the property of the Alighieri family in the twentieth century, and the museum is displayed in three floors representing different stages of the author's life. Other places to visit include Bargello - a sculpture museum, and the Uffizi located in Piazza Signora next to the Town Hall.

Where to Eat in Florence

Florence has a vibrant street food scene where you can find delicious snacks at reasonable prices. Take advantage of the excellent aperitivo scene where local bars offer free snacks or appetizers when you purchase a drink. Don't forget to check out my guide to cheap eats in Florence.

How to Get There by Train

The fast Italo train from Rome to Florence takes only 1 hour and 36 minutes and costs €13.90 when booked in advance through Omio; prices can go up to €75 during the day. Alternatively, if you prefer slower local trains, these can take 3 hours and are much more affordable during the day.

4. Pisa

If you head north towards Italy's Tuscany region, you will pass through the Tiber Valley to reach the historic city of Pisa, just six miles from the Ligurian Sea. In fact, Pisa is located on the alluvial plain of the Arno River and was once a wealthy port city. This wealth is reflected in the architecture of the cathedral complex in Piazza dei Miracoli. The religious monuments include structures such as the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the cemetery.

The image created by the gray and white marble façades against the well-maintained green grass of the Piazza presents one of the finest examples of architectural art.

Where to Eat in Pisa

L’Ostellino, located near the tower, is a place that offers the best paninis in Italy. A wonderful spot.

How to Get There by Train

The fastest trains from Rome to Pisa take 2 hours and 17 minutes, with ticket prices starting at €10.

Image from Simona

5. Ostia

The preferred beach destination for summer holidays in Rome, Ostia, is located just a few steps away from Rome, situated in the Ligurian Sea.

Located 30 kilometers west of Rome, Ostia is away from tourists and is Rome's best-kept secret. It contains an excellent example of well-preserved Roman ruins outside of Pompeii. Ostia began to emerge around 620 BC and became an important place supplying salt to the Roman Republic due to its proximity to extensive salt flats. Salt was highly valued due to its role in preserving meat. The archaeological site spans 10,000 acres and contains many details about the reality of Roman life. The Necropolis, the Baths of Neptune, the Great Theater, the Piazza of the Guilds, the Great Horrea, the Capitolium, the Forum, and more make visiting Ostia extremely worthwhile.

Where to Eat in Ostia

Paninoteca Al Diciassette is a must-visit for its sandwiches; Pane E Vino Trattoria Romana is also a good choice with its fresh fish and excellent buffet prices.

How to Get There by Train

The suburban train from Rome to Ostia takes about 45 minutes and costs only €1.50.

6. Santa Marinella

Another perfect beach day trip is Santa Marinella, which you can reach in just a 30-minute train ride from Rome's Trastevere. The advantages of visiting Santa Marinella include the beach's proximity to the main train station. Walk towards the crescent-shaped bay with bright, clean water, and perhaps rent an umbrella and sunbed to enjoy the sun. If the first beach is crowded, there is a second beach a short distance away. There are many places offering seafood restaurants and antipasti plates. Santa Marinella is known as the 'pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea' and carries a vintage charm and beauty that reflects its past popularity. Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini had a summer house here, which still exists.

Where to Eat in Santa Marinella

Pizzas at Pizzeria Tavola Calda La Stella are quite good; for seafood lovers, you can visit Al Porticciolo.

How to Get There by Train

There are many trains from Rome to Santa Marinella, and you can reach here in less than an hour; the cost is as low as €5.

Civitavecchia. Image by Celina Schou

7. Civitavecchia

The ancient Civitavecchia cruise port is located just 61 km from Rome and is known for its port built by Roman Emperor Trajan in the 2nd century BC. The best way to enjoy Civitavecchia is to explore it on foot. As you wander through the winding streets of the city, encountering the silent beauty of the old churches in ancient squares offers a pleasant experience after the hustle and bustle of Rome. Visit the impregnable Roman fortress Fort Michelangelo, which has existed since the 16th century; its walls are 6 meters thick. Take some time to admire this magnificent structure and the central tower built by Michelangelo. If you have time, consider visiting the Taurine Baths, adorned with changing rooms, baths, and bedrooms. Spend the day walking along the coast and on the promenade. Head to the main street, Corso Centocelle, for shopping; here you can find many shops and outdoor dining opportunities. Try to notice the Etruscan remains located below street level, displayed with glass facades that you can walk over. Fresh fruit and vegetable markets, churches, and street performers make Civitavecchia an unforgettable day trip.

Where to Eat in Civitavecchia

For great local seafood, Il sugherino, for comfort food, Cruise Cafe, and for homemade Italian dishes at good prices, Ostaria La Babbiona should definitely be visited.

How to Get There by Train

Getting here by train from Rome takes about an hour, and the average ticket price is €5.