We know Rome tends to overshadow everything that dwells anywhere within the distance of being in the same country, but there’s really much more to the region of Lazio than just the Eternal City. But where should you go in Lazio? What to visit near Rome? Don’t worry, as, in our attempt to advertise the rest of Lazio a bit more, today’s guide will be all about the underappreciated gems in Lazio!
Where should you go in Lazio?
Best towns and villages near Rome
If you’re already done with the incredible monuments and unparalleled atmosphere of Rome, don’t fret. All of the following towns and villages are within a trip distance from Rome – the closest one is 15 miles away from Rome while the furthest is around 90 miles away.
Anagni
Town of Popes
Anagni is mainly known for two things. Firstly, it’s beautiful architecture, with a large number of lovely remaining medieval-style buildings. Secondly, it’s the birthplace of four popes: Innocent III, Alexander IV, Gregory IX and Boniface VIII. In itself, Anagni is also a beautiful Italian town full of small and narrow streets. It also offers an excellent view of the Sacco Valley. We recommend visiting the Museo Della Cattedrale di Anagni!
Where is Anagni located? It’s 45 miles south-east of Rome (reachable via Italy’s A1 motorway).
Castel Gandolfo
A town with a papal residence
You may recognise Castel Gandolfo, either from the TV or simply because it’s where the papal residence is. The Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo is a vacation retreat for the pope. Interestingly, it’s actually an extraterritorial location, meaning that it’s exempted from Italian laws. Castel Gandolfo is located on Lake Albano, so you’ll also have a lovely view of the lake when strolling through the town.
Castel Gandolfo is located 15 miles to the south-east of Rome.
Civita di Bagnoregio
The Dying Town
Civita di Bagnoregio is primarily known as the Dying Town, as it’s located on a solitary hill which is subject to constant erosion. In other words, the village may suddenly just disappear if the erosion gets far enough. As such, it’s a place only inhabited by 16 people. You have to go through a pedestrian bridge to get to the village at all as well. We wouldn’t want to stress you out, but the time to see this beautiful village may be limited.
The Dying Town is located 77 miles north of Rome.
Fossanova
Fossanova Abbey
Fossanova is a church complex in Lazio, close to Priverno. It’s known for its beautiful architecture and Gothic style, as well as that it’s where Thomas Aquinas died. The church itself, in its initial form, dates back to 1135. Apart from the church, the belfry, the hospital, the gardens and the farm buildings nearby are all worthy of attention. It’s one of the gems of the region.
The Fossanova Abbey is located 57 miles south-east of Rome.
Gaeta
A seaside city in Lazio
Here’s the first seaside place in Lazio – the city of Gaeta. This lovely city is located on the slopes of Torre di Orlando. You’ll find many charming places of interest here, including great sandy beaches near the centre. It’s a perfect place for beach holidays (somewhat) near Rome.
Gaeta is located in the province of Latina, 90 miles south-east of Rome.
Palestrina
The ancient city of Praeneste
Rome’s too expensive for you but you still want that ancient atmosphere? Palestrina will be right up your alley. Its biggest attraction is the Temple of Fortuna, a large religious complex built in 204 BC. It was dedicated to, you guessed it, the goddess Fortuna. People would bring their newborn children here to bless them and increase the chances of them surviving. The temple consists of many terraces and the main part at the very top. Apart from that, the rest of the town is also full of ancient remains and is just a lovely place in and of itself. A great site for a relaxing stroll without the overbearing crowds of Rome.
Palestrina is located 25 miles east of Rome.
Subiaco
Religious attractions in Subiaco
In addition to a charming centre, Subiaco is the home of popular religious attractions, including the Santuario del Sacro Speco and the Monastero di San Benedetto. The Monastero is an abbey located right next to a rock face with the Sacred Cave of Saint Benedict, who lived here in the 6th century. Not only is the location of the abbey just beautiful, it’s also richly decorated inside. The temple and the complex of buildings reminded us a little of the Greek Meteora.
Subiaco is located 45 miles east of Rome.
Sutri
A pretty town in Lazio
Sutri is an ancient town in the province of Viterbo. You’ll find a Romanesque cathedral, an Etruscan necropolis, the ruins of the city walls and a Roman amphitheatre here. The town has merely 6,500 inhabitants and it’s a perfect example of a lovely Italian town.
Sutri is located 35 miles north of Rome.
Trevignano
A town on a lake in Lazio
Trevignano Romano is a town situated on Lake Bracciano. You’ll get a great view of both the town and the lake from the nearby ruins of an ancient fortress. On the way to the top, you can enter the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta. A lovely place if you like small quiet towns near lakes.
Trevignano is located 27 miles away from Rome.
Viterbo
The prettiest city in Lazio?
Viterbo is quite a big city compared to the previously mentioned towns and villages here. However, despite its size, you will still feel the atmosphere of a small Italian town here. Spots especially worth seeing are the Palace of the Popes and the Viterbo Cathedral. Of course, as much as anything else, just a walk through its streets is an attraction in and of itself.
It’s located about 50 miles away from Rome.
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