Rome - The surrounding area

Ostia Antica

An essential item for the trip and only 35 minutes west of Rome. This was ancient Rome's main port and has a wealth of history and atmosphere. Some people claim that it is an archeological site to rival Pompeii. The ruins are so well preserved that you can get a feeling of walking through ancient Rome.

Bomarzo

This is a monster park for the children an hour's drive from Rome; Parco dei Mostri. This mystical park was created in the 16th century and is a popular place to keep the children occupied.

Bracciano

This is a small town 30 km north west of Rome which is famous for its volcanic lake, 'Lago di Bracciano'. This is a popular and beautiful area close to nature. It is recommended to take a sailing trip and admire the scenery for the water. The town gas a mediaeval castle called Castello Orsini-Odescalchi.

Villa Adriana and Villa D'Este

Tivoli lies about 30 km east of Rome and is home to historical villas. Villa Adriana is the 2nd century villa of Hadrian and is a vast estate in tribute to the emperor. The later Villa D’Este was built in the 16th century is simply breathtaking  due to hectares of landscaped gardens and hundreds of ornamental fountains.

Necropolis of the Banditaccia

This is a UNESCO World Heritage site based at Cerveteri about 35 km northwest of Rome. There are over 400 burial sites at this location dating from between the 8th and 2nd centuries BC.