Rome is such a popular tourist draw that many people simply forget about or downright ignore its surroundings. Such a pity this is because there are so many fantastic places to visit near Rome that can make for the trip of a lifetime and make you live the true Italian dream.
From dream-like palaces to fairy-tale gardens, from amazing chapels and crypts to pre-Roman necropolises, there is so much to discover around the Lazio region that limiting your trip to the city of Rome will be a waste.
Not to mention that far from the crowds of selfie-snapping tourists and from endless lines, you are sure to have a more authentic experience of Italian life, otherwise known as dolce vita!
But what are the best places to visit near Rome?
The Lazio region is so big and diverse that it’s really difficult to pin down one or two places to visit near Rome. Unfortunately, due to the fact that the Eternal City is also very big and holds so many beautiful landmarks and monuments to explore, many of the towns around it are usually visited as day trips from Rome.
What has always amazed me is that it’s so rare to see travelers visiting gems like Viterbo, even though it’s a big town and such an important historical city. Nevertheless, I think Viterbo is one of the few places that still attracts a few adventurous holidaymakers, while other cities remain mainly undiscovered (undeservingly so!).
These are a few places I wish people would visit to enjoy their Italian vacation far from the crowds and in total relaxation.
Anagni
The first time I visited Anagni, I immediately fell in love. It’s one of those quaint towns steeped in history that conveys the typical Italian charm we all look for when traveling around the Belpaese.
Apart from the laid-back atmosphere, Anagni has been the setting for important historical events involving popes and noble families throughout the centuries. Ever heard of Pope Boniface VIII? He got slapped in Anagni!
Rivalries, wars, palaces, and beautifully frescoed chapels are among the things you can enjoy in this quaint town, only an hour from Rome!
Bomarzo
This is one of the most mysterious places near Rome to visit and one that attracts the interest of many. Unfortunately, it’s not quite the easiest location to reach unless you are driving. Otherwise, you need to either hire a private driver or join a private tour.
The Sacred Wood of Bomarzo, known by most as the “Park of Monsters”, is indeed a large, bizarre garden that highlights the odd personality of its founder and owner.
Montefiascone
Not directly on the shores of Lake Bolsena, Montefiascone is known for being the best belvedere point for the beautiful lake of the Tuscia region in northern Lazio. Rich in history and culinary and wine tradition, this is also a stop on the Via Francigena pilgrimage route.
Unfortunately, Montefiascone is also not quick to reach by public transport, but if you drive, you can add a walk and, why not, a drink by the lake in smaller towns like Marta or Capodimonte, along with exploring the other attractions and monuments of the area.
Tarquinia
Last but FAR from being least, Tarquinia is a wonderful destination in the Lazio region if you are a fan of history and are curious to discover the importance of the area BEFORE Rome and the empire.
Close to other cities such as Cerveteri and Tuscania, this was an area where the Etruscan civilization settled and thrived, a rich and important culture that so much influenced Rome from its foundation and in the first centuries of its existence.
Tarquinia is home to a huge Etruscan necropolis where dozens of underground tombs can be visited. Their colorful frescoes are wonderful and their architectural style reveals so much about their culture and spirituality. If combined with the local archaeological museum and the nearby necropolis of Cerveteri, your immersion in the fascinating Etruscan world will be complete and unforgettable!
While you can reach Tarquinia’s necropolis using a combination of train and bus, this will take you much longer than simply getting there by car.
All these places and more are included in my 7-day Discover Lazio tour!
This is an exclusive experience for no more than 12 people because I loathe those huge 50-person tours. The locations, experiences, and accommodations of my tour are handpicked, carefully chosen, and nothing is left to chance.
An expert tour leader, knowledgeable tour guides and an experienced driver will make sure everyone is at ease and having a great time. All the guests of my Discover Lazio tour will go back home with a rich baggage of travel memories and a full week of dolce vita lifestyle.
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