14x Best Day Trips from Rome – By a Travel Expert!

Hi there! We are Yasmin & Behrad, traveling the world from Canada and sharing our best practices with you. Flying to Rome is at least once a year on our Bucket list, as it’s one of our favorite stopovers. In this guide we’ll show you the best day trips from Rome by train & by tours.

Thank You for Your Support!

This page contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission, if you book through them at no extra cost to you. To read more, please see my Disclaimer.

If you’re flying out from US or Canada to Italy, Rome is one of the best stopovers, as you can normally find cheaper flights even during the high-season. Yessss! Italy is so beautiful and although we’ve seen a lot there, we still find small villages that are jaw dropping.

And the other good thing about it, is that you can also easily travel on budget in Italy from north to South.

In this Guide we will show you the Best day trips from Rome by train, by cars, and tours. We also show you the must-visit places in each destination. 

How to travel around in Italy

What I love about this country, is that the roads are so convenient and the views are so amazing, that you can easily travel around by car or train.

The major cities are easily accessible through high-speed trains and buses, while it might be better to explore the smaller villages by car or by tours. We love to do roadtrips during our summer trips to Italy and travel by train/bus or tours during colder season.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for renting a car, I would suggest not to book a very big one, if you’re heading to visit smaller villages, as the roads are sometimes quite narrow and it’s easier to drive around with normal cars.

Also check our Ultimate Guide to visit Rome:

• How to get from Rome to Amalfi Coast
• The Ultimate Rome Itinerary (2025) : Must-Visit places/Restaurants/Hotels
• Best Areas to stay in Rome: A Complete Guide

Let’s dive into the 14 best day trips from Rome, with the routes, how to get there, and best tours we’ve experienced during our trips, to make your planning smooth and exciting.

1. Viterbo – Thermal Baths & Medieval Magic

My first favorite is the less famous one, but it’s as if you step back in time and the view is unreal when you travel from Rome to Viterbo. So we start with Italy’s Medieval city.

Another reason we love about Viterbo is because it’s still not that touristy and crowded. It’s located at the top of the hill and the views are so stunning.

This medieval town is only about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Rome by train. It’s packed with history, thermal springs, and charming old streets that make it one of the best day trips from Rome Italy by train, that you could easily make. I love thermal baths and my favorite is the one at the hotel Salus Terme.

By Train: It’s so easy to go there by train. We took the train from Rome to Viterbo and in 1h 40 min with the regional train from Rome’s Termini you’ll arrive in Viterbo Porta Fiorentina. We paid $8 during the high season, but you can even find tickets for $5.

What to visit there?

There are many beautiful medieval monuments to visit once you’re in Viterbo. The first iconic palace, you’ll need to visit is the Palazzo dei Papi, which was once the residence of the popes during their exile from Rome. The view from Loggio delle Benedizioni over the city is breathtaking and best for photos.

Also we loved the San Pellegrino Medieval Quarter with it’s stone arches and small piazzas. It was like a fairytale with a lot of wine bars and tiny restaurants. You’ll love it.

Some other must-visits are: Terme dei Papi (Thermal Baths of the popes), Piazza del Plebiscito (City Hall Square) and Museo Nazionale Etrusco Rocca Albornoz. This museum will show you the roots of Viterbo.

Best Thermal Hotels in Viterbo: our favorite hotel is the Hotel Salus Terme. The Thermal bath is fantastic and the rooms are spacious. We loved to stay there at the end of our 30 days Europe tour and it was so relaxing. Check the details here.

2. Tivoli – Villas, Gardens & Ancient Glamour

Tivoli is a serene escape from Rome’s hustle, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical grandeur. You’ll love the cascading fountains of Villa d’Este and the ancient ruins of Villa Adriana provide a picturesque backdrop for a day of exploration and relaxation.

Although we’ve been there several times, it’s on top of our list when traveling to Rome, as it’s just an hour away from Rome and very good accessible with the train.

Travel Time: 1h with the regional trains from Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina stations to Tivoli. It’s normally between 40 to 54 minutes. Trains departure approximately every hour. Ticket prices starts at €3.

Why Tivoli: Tivoli is perfect for history lovers and those who love majestic gardens and villas. This easy day trip from Rome features UNESCO World Heritage Sites. I wouldn’t miss that.

Highlights: Villa d’Este’s fountains, Villa Adriana’s imperial ruins

Tour Option: Tivoli Day Tours from Rome are also available, if you would rather go with a group on good prices and you’ll also get the skip-the-line entrance. You can check here.

3. Amalfi & Pompeii – History & Pizza Perfection

If you’re staying in rome more than 5 days, I highly recommend taking this day trip or even stay 1 night in Amalfi, which is a heaven on earth to us. Just imagine mountains, blue water, Flowers, narrow streets and lots of Lemon trees. If you love those vibes, you should take that ride. 

Pompeii provides a haunting glimpse into ancient Roman life frozen in time. Together, they offer a day trip filled with culinary delights and archaeological wonders. We recommend taking a tour, as it can be a bit overwhelming to change the trains and see all those attractions. 

Travel Time: If you want to go with a train, take the high-speed train to Naples like Frecciarossa or Italo and you’ll be there in 1h 15min. From Napleas to Pompeii you can take the Train.

Get Our Free Guide: Rome has so much to see, and believe me you can’t see them all in one trip. But you can see the best of it and eat the most authentic Italian food. See our Guide for 5 days in Rome and our Foodie Guide to Rome.

Train: Rome to Naples via high-speed train Circumvesuviana train line, which takes about 36 minutes to reach Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri station, located near the archaeological site. But as said, we did that journey with the train once and twice with a tour and tour is definitely more convenient. 

Why Pompeii & Amalfi:

Explore the dramatic ruins of Pompeii and just indulge in the beauty of Amalfi. If you have time, just take a break in Naples and have an authentic Italian Pizza. .

Must-Do: walk through ancient Roman streets, visit the Forum, amphitheater and public baths. Amalfi is one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world and explores Positano with its narrow, picturesque streets and shops for ceramics and linen. 

Pro Top: Pre-book your tour Rome Day Trip to Pompeii & Amalfi with transport and lunch.

4. Orvieto – Hilltop Bliss

You don’t want to miss that volcanic view. Orvieto boasts a stunning cathedral and underground tunnels that whisper tales of Etruscan civilization. We love its panoramic views and local wines that make it even more heavenly. The scenic panorama is a paradise for photographers and videographers like us. 

Travel Time: 1h 15min Train from Rome to Orvieto: It’s easy to go to Orvieto with train. You can take the regional train from Roma Termini that costs from €16. ight at the Orvieto train station, you can hop on a funicular railway that takes you up to the historic hilltop town. From there, a small shuttle or a 10-minute walk brings you into the heart of town.

Why Orvieto: We love Orvieto for it’s dramatic clifftop views, it’s Cathedral and the local white wine (Orvieto Classico). Orvieto is a medieval town perched above vineyards and valleys. A perfect place for a one day trip from Rome.

What to Explore: The gothic cathedral, underground caves, and Umbrian wine

Tour Option: Orvieto Day Trip with Wine Tasting, that’s a great option and we loved that. It’s one of a kind experience.

5. Assisi – Spiritual Escape

Assisi is the hometown of St. Francis of Assisi, one of Italy’s most beloved saints and the founder of the Franciscan order. The town sits peacefully on a hill in Umbria, surrounded by olive groves and offering breathtaking views of the valley below. 

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top day trips from Rome that we really enjoyed. It’s just a bit further than the other day tours and the ride is about 2 hours from Rome. We suggest to take the early trains. 

Travel Time: 2h | Train: Rome to Assisi (via Foligno), Please see below.

Why Assisi:

If you’re a photographer like us, you’ll find the best post card views in Assisi. So be sure you take your full gears with you. The city with it’s cobbled streets, artisan shops and local trattorias give a cozy, timeless atmosphere. It offers serenity, spirituality, and stunning views of Umbria.

Highlights: Basilica of St. Francis,Rocco Maggiore, St. Clare’s Basilica and try the local truffle dishes, wild boar and the region’s wines. You’ll fall in love with the cuisine. 

Looking for a hotel or you want to know where to stay in Rome, Read our free Guide to Rome Neighborhoods & best hotels from budget to luxury.

Tour Tip: if you take a train you’ll reach the train station which is in the Santa Maria degli Angeli area, and need to take a bus, taxi, or walk uphill to go to the city. We found it easier to take a tour of Assisi. There are several budget-friendly Rome to Assisi Day-Tours with Lunch.

They are also offering Orvieto and Assisi in one day. You can see the details here. 

6. Ostia Antica – Underrated Roman Treasure

If you’re in Rome and craving a bit of history without the crowds of Pompeii, let me tell you about one of my favorite hidden gems: Ostia Antica. It’s like stepping into a time machine — just 30-45 minutes from the city — and it’s honestly one of the best day trips from Rome by train.

Travel Time: 45 min | Train from Rome Piramide Station: So here’s how I got there: I started my day at Piramide Metro Station, which connects directly to Roma Porta San Paolo. From there, I hopped on the Roma-Lido train — no reservations needed, just a simple metro ticket for €1.50. The ride took about 35 minutes, and I got off at Ostia Antica Station.

After a short 5-minute walk over a pedestrian bridge, I found myself at the entrance to this ancient Roman city.

Pro tip: For a 3-5 day itinerary, also check our Guide to Rome’s must-visit places.

Why Ostia Antica

A hidden archaeological site that rivals Pompeii but without the crowds. Now, Ostia Antica was once the thriving port of ancient Rome, and today it’s this beautifully preserved archaeological site where you can wander through old bathhouses, temples, markets, and even a Roman theater. I saw mosaics that looked like they were done yesterday — it was surreal.

What I love most? It’s peaceful. No massive tour groups, no noise — just birds, ruins, and the breeze. It felt like my own personal Pompeii, but way easier to get to from Rome.

Must-See: Roman theater, The Bath of Naptune, The Insulae, The Forum

Tour Option: You can get a tour from Rome, but honestly it’s easy to go by train and the train station is very close to the historical part of the city, just 5 minutes walk. But if you prefer to get a tour, here is my suggestion: Ostia Antica Guided Tour from Rome.

7. Venice – Iconic Canal City

Yes! It’s possible and we did it, but you need to wake up early and sleep late. It’s 4 hours ride from Rome but it’s worth it. Let me tell you something, if you haven’t been to Venice and don’t know when you’re coming back to Italy again, it’s a must-visit on your day tours from Rome.

Travel Time: 3h 45min | Train: This is how we did it. We took a high-speed train from Rome Termini station to Venice Santa Lucia, and it was honestly such a smooth ride. It takes just under 4 hours, and if you catch the early morning Frecciarossa (around 6:30 or 7:00 AM), you’ll be sipping a spritz in Venice by 10:30.

I booked my ticket through Omio — super easy to use. Prices can vary depending on how early you book, but I paid around €45 for a second-class seat and it was comfy, clean, and came with Wi-Fi. Not bad for a cross-country ride.

Why Venice:

I don’t think I need to say much, but if you love to see Gondolas, piazzas, and romance, it’s all waiting for you  in Venice. Start early to make it a magical Rome day trip.

Top Sights: St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Grand Canal, Piazza San Marco, Rialto Bridge and don’t forget to drink an Aperol Spritz with Cicchetti (little Venetian tapas)

Pro Tip: We went to Venice with a high-speed train. And you can easily find the historical places in Venice and of course the Canal. You can book your Rome to Venice train early to avoid high prices. We never tried a tour there, so can’t recommend.

8. Tuscany Wine Country – Rolling Hills & Chianti

Tuscany is a region, not a town, so your exact destination matters. I chose Sienna and Ulignano for a cozy wine-tasting experience, but last time we did Chianti and it was also fascinating.

You can also chose Montalcino, or even San Gimignano. For Wine experiments, I would suggest taking a tour, as they are normally out of the city centers, so you might need to pay for extra taxis to take you there. 

Travel Time: As said I only took wine tours for this area. If you want to travel by train, It’s around 2.5 to 3 hours from Rome and is a paradise for Wine lovers.

Why Go: Tuscany’s scenic countryside is a dreamy escape for wine and food lovers. Believe me even a tomato tastes so different than anywhere else. You will suddenly fall in love with all kinds of fruits and vegetables and find your hidden wine expertise!

Regions to Visit: Montepulciano, Montalcino, Chianti, Siena,

Tour Option: Tuscany Wine Tour from Rome with lunch and tastings. This is the tour that we would recommend. We enjoyed it a lot and had so much fun!

9. Cinque Terre – Coastal Color & Charm

Believe me you can easily take pictures like the one we did, even no need to edit. It really looks like that or even more beautiful.

If you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram and stopped at a photo of rainbow houses stacked along cliff edges above turquoise sea — that was probably Cinque Terre. It’s just as magical in real life. And while it’s a long day trip from Rome, it’s absolutely worth it, especially if you’re staying in Rome for several days and want to mix city with coast and the view of UNESCO World Heritage site.

Travel Time: 4h | Take a high-speed train from Rome Termini to La Spezia Centrale. This takes about 3.5–4 hours. From La Spezia, hop on the local Cinque Terre train that runs between the five villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.

The local train connects the towns in under 5 minutes each. You can buy a Cinque Terre Train Card, which gives you unlimited travel for the day.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want to maximize your time, leave Rome as early as possible (like 6:00–7:00 AM) and return in the evening. Or, better yet — make it an overnight trip!

Why Cinque Terre

Cliffside villages, coastal trails, and gelato with sea views make this a top day trip from Rome. Seafood pasta, pesto Genovese, fresh anchovies, focaccia, and local white wine called Sciacchetrà. This region is a foodie’s paradise.

Activities: Hike the Blue Trail, explore five villages, swim in the Ligurian Sea and eat everything! 

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the sunset in Manarola, Swimming in Monterosso, Limoncino tastings in local shops and lunch in Vernazza’s harbor (take the grilled seafood)

10. Frascati – Wine & Local Flavors

If you’re craving a slower pace, rolling hills, local wine, and old-world Italian charm — but don’t want to travel too far — let me introduce you to Frascati. It’s one of the most underrated day trips from Rome, and best of all? It’s super easy to reach by train in under 30 minutes! No need to book a tour.

Yes, really. That means you could be sipping white wine on a sunny terrace in the Lazio countryside by lunchtime.

Travel Time: 30 min | Train: From Rome Termini to Frascati

Tour Option: Frascati Wine Tour with Tastings from Rome. We booked a local tour in Frascati and did a wine-tasting in different vineyards. Here is the way of booking!

Why Frascati: A quick ride takes you to this charming town known for wine and Roman villas with picturesque views.

What to Do: Wine, Wine, Wine! Try the DOC Frascati wine. visit Villa Aldobrandini

14x Best Day Trips from Rome

11. Castel Gandolfo – Papal Summer Retreat

Looking for a peaceful escape with stunning lake views, royal history, and charming streets? And you don’t want to drive far away. Welcome to Castel Gandolfo — one of the most delightful day trips from Rome by train that you can easily fit into your itinerary!

This quaint town sits on the edge of Lake Albano and has been the summer residence of the Popes for centuries. It’s a quiet, elegant getaway from bustling Bella Rome, and the best part? It’s only about 40 minutes from Rome by train!

Travel Time: 40 min | Train: Take the regional train from Rome Termini to Castel Gandolfo.

Why Castel Gandolfo: Overlooking Lake Albano, this picturesque town is home to the Pope’s summer residence.

Don’t Miss: Papal Palace, Barberini Gardens, lakeside lunch

12. Florence – Art, Culture & Renaissance Vibe

After Rome, Florence is our next favorite city in Italy. This small and cute Tuscan city is like an open museum. It’s the cradle of the Renaissance. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a living museum, where every corner tells a story of artistic brilliance. 

From Michelangelo’s David to the architectural marvel of the Duomo, Florence offers history, best food and best vibes. It’s a destination for both solo-travelers and romantic couples. Book your high-speed Train Rome to Florence.

Travel Time with train: 1h 30min | The high-speed train from Rome to Florence is the best, which operates frequently on a daily basis. Ticket prices vary based on the class but if you book in advance you can also find as low as €14.90.

If you want to spend more time in Italy and you’re heading to Florence, read our guides to:

20 Best Restaurants in Florence

Why Florence: Florence is a jewel of Tuscany and believe me you’ll want to go back there again and again. It’s one of the eldest cities in the world  and offers breathtaking architecture, and delicious Tuscan cuisine. Check my Guide for 20 Best Restaurants in Florence, so that you won’t miss anything!

Don’t Miss: The Uffizi Gallery, Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Ponte

13. Civita di Bagnoregio – The Dying City

Have you ever heard of a town that literally seems to float on a hilltop, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and stunning views? Welcome to Civita di Bagnoregio, famously called “The Dying Town” because of its fragile position on volcanic tuff rock, but truly alive with charm, history, and breathtaking scenery.

If you’re after a unique day trip from Rome that feels like stepping into a fairy tale, this is it. It’s best to take a tour from Rome, as you have to get a local bus or taxi to go to Bagnoregio. So it’s better to book a tour. 

Travel Time: 2h 30min | If you like adventure and have the time, here is how you can get there: take the train from Rome Termini to Orte (about 1h 15min). From Orte, catch a local bus or taxi to the nearby town of Bagnoregio (about 30 minutes). From Bagnoregio, a scenic footbridge leads you into Civita di Bagnoregio itself — no cars allowed here! You can’t believe your eyes…

Why Civita di Bagnoregio:

A surreal hilltop village accessible by footbridge. One of the most unusual day trips from Rome.

Must-See: The views over the surrounding valleys and eroded hills are nothing short of spectacular. It’s a photographer’s dream! We regret that we didn’t take enough gears wit us. It’s a paradise for photographers. Dramatic cliffs, car-free charm, photo ops galore. The views are Jaw-Dropping.

14. Sperlonga – Seaside Bliss for Beach lovers

Looking for a beach day trip from Rome that mixes gorgeous sandy shores, charming old streets, and some Roman history? Sperlonga is your perfect getaway!

This hidden gem on the Tyrrhenian coast is known for its crystal-clear waters, whitewashed houses, and peaceful vibe. It’s a favorite spot for locals and travelers wanting to escape the city heat and enjoy some sun and sea without the crowds of more famous beaches.

Travel Time: 1h 15min | Take a regional train from Rome Termini to Terracina or Fondi-Sperlonga station (about 1.5 to 2 hours). From the station, hop on a local bus or taxi (around 15 minutes) to reach the town center and beaches.

Why Sperlonga: A beach day trip from Rome with whitewashed streets, turquoise waters, and ancient caves for all the beach lovers. 

What to Do: Relax at the beach, visit Villa of Tiberius and enjoy walking in the charming Old Town.