Rome's surrounding area: the best destinations for art and food
Rome is wonderful, but if you have time, it is well worth venturing beyond the capital's walls to explore the surrounding villages. In fact, the Roman countryside is just as packed with beauty, history and gastronomic delights as the city centre. If you don't know where to start, here are some suggestions about the best places to explore Lazio's ancient history and taste some delicious Roman specialities.
Cerveteri
North of Rome and home to the famous Etruscan Necropolises of Banditaccia, Cerveteri is one of the richest locations around Rome from an artistic and archaeological point of view. We also highly recommend walking around Ruspoli Castle in the historic centre, and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore.
Tivoli
43 kilometres east of Rome, on the slopes of the Tiburtini mountains, you'll find Tivoli, an ancient city dotted with wonderful Roman villas. The most beautiful to visit are undoubtedly Villa Adriana, the splendid Villa d'Este and Villa Gregoriana.
Subiaco
Subiaco is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, bursting with history and even the village where the first book in Italy was printed. Another thing that makes it so wonderful is its location within the Simbruini Mountains Natural Park. Be sure to visit if you're a nature enthusiast!
Cervara di Roma
The highest village in Lazio, at 1053 metres above sea level, providing a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding meadows and woods. Be sure to visit the medieval fortress and the Church of Maria Santissima della Visitazione.
Castel Gandolfo
This village south of Rome is known for being the pope's summer residence, but it's also home to several other wonders, including villas, historical residences and interesting archaeological sites, such as the Emissary of Lake Albano and the remains of the Villa of Domitian.
Ariccia
If you want to taste the region's most typical dishes, Ariccia is the city that will get your taste buds tingling. One of the Castelli Romani towns, Ariccia is famous for its traditional "fraschette" restaurants, where you can taste toasted bruschetta, amatriciana pasta and porchetta meat, and enjoy the Castelli wine. But Ariccia isn't just about food! We recommend visiting the Monumental Bridge and two of Bernini's works, the Chigi Palace and the Collegiate of Maria Santissima in Cielo.
