Travel Diary_Part II Italy

5 amazing day trips from rome

Let’s not doubt that when in Italy, Rome is the #1 city to visit for most tourists. After all, the eternal city has a reputation that precedes it wherever you go. Yet, while writing a blog about the wonders of this place would be a lot of fun, we also think there’s more than enough information about that throughout the web. 

Our experience in Rome has always been that of a local, so we thought we should tell you about some amazing towns and places you can visit just for the day. Let’s jump right onto the countdown! Shall we?

#5 Lake Bracciano

This lake of volcanic origins is located about twenty miles from Rome. Bracciano, Anguillara Sabazia and Trevignano Romano are the three main towns that surround this area. 

During our first weekend in Italy, we decided to visit first the town of Bracciano, which rises right above the lake, and it’s perfect laid back alternative when it comes to escape the chaos of the capital. 

If you have time, a walk along Trevignano’s lakeshore, will leave you with a sense of peace and found joy for the little pleasures in life: a gentle breeze, the laugh of some kids riding their bikes, the smell of fruits and veggies while crossing a farmers market, and the sweet voice of a “nonna” sitting on the balcony while singing a traditional song. Yes, this town is that and much more. Definitely worth taking a small detour from that tourist life.

If you happen to be there during lunch or dinner time, you should definitely eat at one of the restaurants that border the lake. The food, that changes according to the season is amazing… Just as much as the view! If you don’t know what to get, try fish and eels, two of the main local specialties.

Looking to do something cultural? Check out the Odescalchi Castle, also known as the Castello Orsini Odescalchi after two of the noble families which owned the site.

#4 Frascati

We could have done this trip in half a day, but let’s be honest: wine deserves a full day. 

Frascati is located about twelve miles southeast from Rome and technically is part of the Castelli Romani (mentioned in #2), but since it’s a bit further from the other towns we decided to write a dedicated segment for it. Frascati has a beautiful historic centre, and impressive views of Rome. The town is also famous for its wine  and villas, so why not do both? We first visited the Villa Aldobrandini, which believe or not is still owned and occupied by the members of the Aldobrandini family. The gardens are open to the public and are absolutely stunning.

After so much history and walking, we went to the Casale Minardi. This winery is one of the oldest farmhouses in the area, and it boasts an old cellar which keeps all the equipment used by generations of winemakers. Their wines are delicious, but don’t take our word for it...You should go and try them!

#3 Lake Vico

Lake Vico is a short drive away from Rome (about forty miles North). According to a legend this lake was created when Hercules threw his club into the ground and created a hole that was soon filled with water from a nearby stream. On a more realistic perspective, lake Vico was created by a collapsed volcanic cone.

During the summer, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and pic-nic spots all along the lake. 

If you have time, you should also explore the nearby town of Nepi, which is known for its mineral springs, sold and bottled under the Acqua di Nepi brand. 

Also, guess what? There’s a castle! We know what you are thinking, “another one?!?!”. Yes, apparently Italians love castles. The Borgia Castle, also known as Rocca di Nepi, is a 15th-century reconstruction of a feudal manor. It was once the property of Lucrezia Borgia, and is surrounded by massive walls and four towers. You can follow in the footsteps of the Roman Empire with a cobbled road that the castle sits upon. You can’t miss it!

#2 Castelli Romani

This group of small towns is located about thirty minutes southeast of Rome, around the lakes of Albano and Nemi. Our favorites are Castel Gandolfo (summer home to the Popes), Marino (known for its Grape festival on the first Sunday of October, when some of the fountains spout wine instead of water….say whaaat!?!), Ariccia (famous for its “porchetta”, which is pork that is slowly roasted with herbs) and Nemi. This is where we spent a beautiful evening at Ramo D’Oro restaurant, which has one of the best views of Lake Nemi. The whole area is also known for their wines, so get ready to do some more wine tasting. 

#1 Assisi

Assisi is probably the most distant city of all the ones we have talked about, but it’s still very accessible. You can get there either by car or train in a little less than two hours...Totally worth your time!

This town lies amid Umbria's green hills. It’s known as the birthplace of St. Francis, who was the founder of the religious order known as the Franciscans. Also, it’s considered a Unesco heritage site due to its magnificent medieval architecture. 

Along with the Basilica of Saint Francis, the Basilica di Santa Chiara is a must-see place in Assisi. After, If you are up for the climb, head to the Rocca Maggiore Castle, a striking fortress that was rebuilt during 14th century over an earlier fortification dating back to the time of Charles the Great.  

As for food, there are plenty of options to choose from. We went to Trattoria Pallotta, which offers a taste of some of the best dishes in the area, and it has a really nice environment. When you are done, take a stroll to Piazza Santa Chiara and take a moment to experience the vibrancy of this town and its locals.

Well friends, with that we reached the end of our travel diary. We hope we gave you some inspiration for your next adventure. If you decide to go visit some of these places and need some extra advice, feel free to shoot us an email! We are always happy to help out!

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Til next time!