As the capital of Italy and the home of Vatican City, Rome is the right balance of adventure and comfort, that distinctive blend of Italian culture and global religious significance. However, while there’s enough within Rome to keep you busy for weeks, the tantalizing possibility of exploring nearby destinations without actually being in the city adds a whole new layer of opportunity to the travel experience. Whether you’re looking to visit ancient ruins, picturesque countryside, or nearby cities, Rome is an ideal starting point for various day trips.
Let’s look into some of the best spots to hit on your next vacation to Italy. For the following spots, you’ll be able to easily catch a cab, ride-share, or train to get there and back in just one day. This means no transferring hotels or completely re-packing your bags. These are some of the best day trips from Rome that absolutely deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. Day Trip to Vatican City
For many visitors, a day trip from Rome to Vatican City is a must. Located within Rome itself, it’s the smallest independent city-state in the world. In Vatican City, you’ll find breathtaking works of art and architecture, like the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Vatican Museums. Take a tour with a guide for the rare combination of spiritual gravitas, historical depth, artistic wonders, and architectural brilliance.
2. Exploring Pompeii
Along the Western coast, south and east of Rome by 150 miles (241.4 km), lies Pompeii, the ancient city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This historic landmark is easily accessible via Rome by train. It makes for an excellent learning opportunity and provides an incredible look into the past. Guided tours around the city take you through the well-preserved ruins. The markets sell obscure trinkets that you can take home and use to commemorate your trip to a world lost to time. No matter what you buy, the memories will last forever.
3. Florence in a Day
As a popular Rome day trip excursion, the allure of Florence flourishes an abundance of art, culture, and the Renaissance. Take Italy’s rail system. Stroll through the Uffizi Gallery, visit the iconic Duomo, and admire Michelangelo’s David before hopping back to Rome in the evening.
4. Tuscany Countryside and Wine Tasting
For scenic beauty and delicious food, a Rome to Tuscany day trip offers rolling hills and the endless parade of wine tastings. It’s easy to relax in Tuscany—explore the local wineries, enjoy the long stretches of quiet countryside, maybe purchase a bottle of olive oil. The charming towns of Siena and San Gimignano are so close.
5. Tivoli and the Roman Ruins
For those interested in ancient ruins and historical architecture, a Rome to Tivoli day trip is a short drive for low cost. The city lies just outside of Rome and ushers travelers to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Villa d’Este, famous for its Renaissance gardens and fountains, and Hadrian’s Villa, the former home of the Roman Emperor. If you want to make the best of your day trip from Rome, put Tivoli and the ruins high on your to-do list.
6. Amalfi Coast
For those looking to escape both Rome and reason, a journey to the Amalfi Coast makes for one of the more scenic day trips. Towns like Positano cling to the cliffs, while Ravello is perched on a hilltop more than 1200 feet (0.37 kilometers) above the Mediterranean. The impossibly blue waters break against the coast below. Enjoy swimming, luxe beach vibes, and a beautiful atmosphere from one end of the coast to the other.
Planning Your Day Trip from Rome
Consider travel times before finalizing your itinerary. Personal interests, practical logistics, and a little flexibility go a long way to hit that balance of immersing yourself in new experiences while avoiding burnout. Give yourself time to explore at a leisurely pace. Many excursions around Rome feature guided tours custom-made with insightful commentary. Plus, with convenient train and bus options, you can easily venture out while still savoring the comforts of the Italian city.
