Exploring the many attractions in Rome can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of options on what you can see and do. The constant hustle and bustle of crowds and the relentless pace may leave you yearning for a respite. If you’re seeking a break, continue reading, as I’ll suggest some fantastic day trips from Rome by train, conveniently categorized by the duration of the train rides, sparing you the need to research it on your own.
Day Trips from Rome by Train
So, you’re ready to get out of Rome for a bit, are you? Then let’s do it! Below, I will review some of the best towns to visit for your escape. I have a few that I will be sharing that are some of my favorites, and maybe someday, when you go, you will find your favorites, too. Let’s dive in…
Day Trips from Rome by Train Under One Hour
1. Tivoli
Travel time by train is 47 minutes. The cost is €2.60 one way.
Tivoli is a town located east of Rome. It has two iconic landmarks such as Villa d’Este, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its magnificent gardens and fountains. Hadrian’s Villa is also here, an expansive archaeological complex revealing the grandness of an ancient Roman emperor’s residence. The town also offers natural wonders, illustrated by Villa Gregoriana, a park featuring waterfalls, caves, and scenic trails.
You can relax and wander through the town’s medieval streets, discover quaint shops, and enjoy the local atmosphere. If you’re looking for even more relaxation, check out Tivoli’s thermal baths, which reflect the town’s ancient spa tradition.
2. Bracciano
Travel time by train is 51 minutes. The cost is €4.70 one way.
Bracciano is a medieval town in a lakeside setting located northwest of Rome. While in Bracciano, visit Castello Orsini-Odescalchi. Explore this impressive medieval castle that dominates the town’s skyline. The castle is well-preserved and provides panoramic views of Lake Bracciano. Also, while in town, visit the Church of St. Stephen. This historic church is known for its Renaissance and Baroque elements, including impressive frescoes and artwork. If you want to relax, spend time at the lake, which offers water sports and recreational activities. Enjoying a boat ride is also something that can be done. If you are a naturist, visiting the Regional Natural Park of Bracciano-Martignano is a must!
The park offers hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and a chance to appreciate the surrounding area’s natural beauty.
3. Ostia Antica
Travel time by train is 46 minutes. The cost is around €3.00 one way.
Ostia Antica was once a bustling harbor city of Rome. It is located southwest of Rome. Ostia Antica shows off its well-preserved ruins, which offer visitors a chance to explore the layout of the Roman town, complete with streets, houses, public buildings, and warehouses. If you are a history enthusiast, this is the perfect town for you. Here, you can see the impressive Theater, the Forum, the Baths of Neptune, and the ancient apartment buildings known as insulae. Take time to see the Theater. This structure was built during the reign of Augustus in the 1st century BC. The Theater could accommodate around 3,500 spectators. The Theater was a central hub for various performances, including plays, musical events, and public gatherings.
Visiting the Forum allows you to appreciate the temples, basilica, and surrounding structures. This expansive public square, surrounded by essential structures, played a pivotal role in the city’s daily life.
The baths of Neptune is a well-preserved complex dating back to the 2nd century AD, showcasing the time’s advanced engineering and architectural genius.
It’s truly fascinating to grasp that the Romans, way back in time, were remarkably advanced and possessed a wealth of knowledge. The baths contained changing rooms that led into the Caldarium, Tepidarium, and Frigidarium, which featured rooms with varying temperatures; the Caldarium was hot, the Tepidarium was tepid, and the Frigidarium was cold, allowing bathers to experience a progressive thermal routine. The baths were also equipped with sophisticated water supply and drainage systems.
Day Trips from Rome by Train 1-2 Hours
Below, you will find the towns that take 1-2 hours to get to from Rome as we continue listing day trips from Rome by train.
4. Naples
Travel time by train is 1 hour and 12 minutes. The cost for the high-speed train is around €60 one way.
As if the pizza alone isn’t enough to tempt you to take a day trip to Naples….Naples offers many other reasons to visit. It is home to UNESCO-listed landmarks such as the historic city center, where narrow streets wind past architectural gems and centuries-old churches. The Royal Palace and the Naples Cathedral are must-sees as well. The palace is located in the historic Piazza del Plebiscito. One of the highlights of the Royal Palace is the beautiful Palatine Chapel, known for its stunning frescoes, marble decorations, and remarkable Baroque altarpiece. Outside the palace, you can enjoy a walk around the gardens with a panoramic view of Mt. Vesuvius and the Gulf of Naples. A visit to the Naples Cathedral, located in the heart of Naples, holds a significant place in the city’s religious and cultural history and remains an important site for locals and visitors. Its construction dates back to the 13th century, although it has undergone several renovations and additions, blending various architectural styles including Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance.
5. Orvieto
Travel time by train is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost is between €12 and €18 one way.
Orvieto, one of my favorite towns, is a picturesque hilltop town in central Italy. It is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and captivating cultural heritage and is situated to the north of Rome. Its main focal point is the Orvieto Cathedral (Duomo di Orvieto). It is striking in its beauty, made with Black and white marble in Italian Gothic architecture. Orvieto also has this amazing underground. It includes tunnels, caves, and wells carved into the tuff rock. The underground reveals the city’s Etruscan origins and served various purposes throughout history, from storage to secret escape routes. If wine is your thing, you can tour local vineyards, taste the distinct wines, and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions. BTW, it’s renowned for its white wine.
Walking through the historic city center, you see quaint shops, local eateries, and hidden gems around every corner.
6. Florence
Travel time by train is 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cost for the high-speed train is around €60 one way.
Florence is another absolute favorite of mine. I’m actually heading back in a few months! It is situated north of Rome. Florence is a breathtaking city with so much to do. I highly recommend making this more than a one-day trip, but if that is all you have time for, I will highlight some of the must-see options in this beautiful city.
I would start by visiting the Florence Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze). It’s in the center of the city and graces the skyline alongside the picturesque Ponte Vecchio. I highly recommend a tour of the inside. While visiting the cathedral, climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond. The tour I took was great. It is one hour in duration… giving you plenty of time to go onto the next must-see.
Next, I would head to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s most renowned art museums. Take in masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Booking tickets in advance is recommended to skip the lines. This recommended tour is 1.5 hours in duration.
After the Uffizi Gallery, I would walk to the historic Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge spanning the Arno River. The bridge is lined with shops, offering a charming atmosphere and great photo opportunities. From here, explore Piazza della Signoria, Florence’s main square, and admire the outdoor sculptures. Visit the Palazzo Vecchio and the town hall and explore its historic chambers.
Make your way to the Accademia Gallery to witness Michelangelo’s iconic statue of David. The gallery also houses other works by Michelangelo and a collection of Renaissance art. Skip the line tour listed below. Tour time is approximately 1.25 hours.
After the Uffizi Gallery, I would walk to the historic Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge spanning the Arno River. The bridge is lined with shops, offering a charming atmosphere and great photo opportunities. From here, explore Piazza della Signoria, Florence’s main square, and admire the outdoor sculptures. Visit the Palazzo Vecchio and the town hall and explore its historic chambers.
Make your way to the Accademia Gallery to witness Michelangelo’s iconic statue of David. The gallery also houses other works by Michelangelo and a collection of Renaissance art. Skip the line tour listed below. Tour time is approximately 1.25 hours.
Visit the Santa Croce Basilica, the final resting place of notable figures such as Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, and Machiavelli. The basilica is a treasure trove of art and history. From here, take a little R&R in the afternoon with a stroll through the Boboli Gardens, a magnificent Renaissance garden behind the Pitti Palace. Enjoy the greenery, fountains, and sculptures. I highly encourage you to consider this suggestion—it’s truly stunning. The views across the Arno River into the center of Florence are breathtaking.
The last recommendation is the Mercato Centrale. This is a bustling food market for a taste of local flavors. You can literally purchase anything here. Mercato Centrale engages your senses with a profound symphony of colors, aromas, and flavors, creating a culinary experience like no other in the heart of Florence.
➡️ Skip the Line Florence Cathedral Tour
➡️ Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour
➡️ Skip the Line Accademia Gallery Tour
➡️ Skip the Line Santa Croce Basilica Tour
➡️ Audio Tour of Florence (3.5 hours long)
7. Civita di Bagnoregio
Travel time by train is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost is between €12 and €18 one way. You will then need to take a 20-minute bus ride to the town in front of the train station. €1-3 one way.
I assure you that this is one of the most breathtaking views in Italy. When traveling, I literally found this town on a whim. Didn’t even know about it in the earlier days of my travels to Italy. Civita di Bagnoregio is perched on top of a plateau of volcanic rock and is accessible only by a pedestrian bridge, which you will walk to get to the town. There are no cars in the town. Today, there are only 16 inhabitants. It is unfortunately known as the “Dying Town”. This is due to erosion of the surrounding tufa rock, which has caused parts of the plateau to crumble away. In recent years, Civita di Bagnoregio has experienced increased tourism even though there has been a decrease in its population. A day trip to this town is like stepping back in time and exploring a place that seems frozen in history. Its isolation, stunning views, and medieval charm make it a hidden gem for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience in Italy.
Day Trips from Rome by Train over 2 Hours
Below, you will find the towns that take over 2 hours to get to from Rome as we continue listing day trips from Rome by train.
8. Assisi
Travel time by train is 2 hours and 30 minutes. The cost for the regional train is €13 one way.
Assisi is located north of Rome. It is in the Umbria region of Italy. It’s a small town that is worth the visit. Assisi is particularly famous for being the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Italy. The town is characterized by its well-preserved medieval buildings, including the Basilica of Saint Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site containing important frescoes by renowned Italian artists. Assisi is perched on the slopes of Mount Subasio, offering stunning views of the surrounding Umbrian countryside. The town attracts pilgrims, tourists, and art enthusiasts alike. Highlights in the town are the Basilica of Saint Francis, Rocca Maggiore, and the Basilica of Santa Chiara (Basilica di Santa Chiara).
The Basilica of Saint Francis is a is a major pilgrimage site and one of Italy’s most important religious landmarks. The complex reflects the life and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi.
Rocca Maggiore is a medieval fortress situated on the summit of Mount Subasio, overlooking Assisi. Visitors can explore its towers, walls, and dungeons, gaining insights into the historical significance of Assisi.
The Basilica of Santa Chiara is another notable religious site in Assisi. The basilica features Gothic architecture and houses the tomb of St. Clare.
➡️ Skip the Line Basilica of Saint Francis Tour
9. Pompeii
Travel time by train is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. The regional and high-speed train costs (both needed to get to Pompeii) are around €33 one way.
Pompeii is located south of Rome, just outside of Naples. When I visited, I spent half the day there. I was so enamored by it that I just wanted to soak up everything about this town and its history.
Pompeii met its tragic end in 79 AD when Mount Vesuvius erupted, burying the city under volcanic ash and pumice. This event led to the remarkably preserved state of Pompeii, freezing it in time. The excavation of Pompeii revealed an exceptionally well-preserved urban layout, complete with streets, houses, public buildings, and markets. Visiting here, you can explore the city’s grid-like streets and witness the daily life of its inhabitants. Notable structures found under the ash and pumice include the House of the Vettii, the Temple of Jupiter, and the Stabian Baths. Also unearthed was the city’s amphitheater, the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater, underscoring the significance of entertainment in Roman society. Gladiatorial contests and public spectacles were integral to the city’s cultural fabric.
After visiting Pompeii, I highly recommend going to Mount Vesuvius. It’s just under an hour’s ride and only costs €3-€5.
10. Pisa
Travel time by train is 2 hours and 30 minutes. The cost for a non-stop high-speed train is €58 one way.
Pisa is a beautiful city located in the Tuscan region and close to the Tyrrhenian Sea. What is one very well-known landmark in Pisa? The Leaning Tower, of course. Beyond this, Pisa has other interesting landmarks as well. Pisa’s main square, Piazza dei Miracoli, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Baptistery, and the Camposanto Monumentale. The square is a wonderful ensemble of medieval architecture. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, commonly known as the Pisa Cathedral, is a superb example of Romanesque architectural brilliance. Its impressive façade and beautiful interior artworks, including frescoes and sculptures, attract visitors from around the world.
Pisa is also known for having the first university in Italy. The University of Pisa was founded in 1343.
FAQs
Below, you will find answers to some commonly asked questions.
Is it worth it to do a day trip from Rome to Florence?
In my opinion, it is. However, if you could spare two or three days, that would be ideal. The highlights I listed under Florence will have you experiencing a lot and can easily be done in a day.
Can you do a day trip from Rome to the Amalfi Coast?
I would not recommend trying to see the Amalfi Coast in one day. The travel time alone will take up much of the day. Exploring the Amalfi Coast is best undertaken as a dedicated and well-planned excursion. To learn more about the Amalfi Coast and how to plan a trip on a budget, visit my post here.
Is Florence or Rome nicer?
Determining which is nicer between the two is challenging, as it boils down to personal preference. However, I suggest Rome for your first trip to Italy due to its overwhelming array of activities and attractions. While Florence also offers numerous experiences, it does so on a more intimate scale.
In Conclusion
Hopping on a train from Rome for day trips opens the door to an amazing array of experiences. Whether you’re intrigued by Florence’s eternal charm, stepping into the wonders of Pompeii, or visiting some of the lesser-known towns that don’t deny beauty to the eyes, each adventure promises a bucketful of memories. With the convenience of a well-connected railway, these day trips are like little packages of joy, offering diverse landscapes and cultural treasures just a train ride away from the vibrant heart of Rome.
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