Fun Day Trips from Italy’s Cities
Italy’s major cities get the most attention, but smaller cities around the country have some beautiful and unique places to explore. Some of our favorite spots in Italy were the ones we found off the beaten path. We took some day trips from Rome, Naples and Florence while we were in Italy and these were some of the most fun adventures.
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Off the Beaten Path in Italy: Rome Day Trip to Tivoli
As a side trip in Rome we took the local train to Tivoli. The train ride is about an hour ride through the countryside. From the train it is a short walk to see Villa d’Este.
Off the Beaten Path in Italy: Bomarzo – Parco dei Mostri
The Sacro Bosco Park of the Monsters is a little over an hour drive from Rome. We rented a car and drove to this fascinating park. It is home to larger than life sculptures of monsters in a beautiful garden setting.
The Other Historic City: Ostia Antica
If you want to see ruins of a historic city, similar to Pompeii but without the crowds, take the train from Rome to Ostia. Ostia Antica is an archaeological site nearly as large as Pompeii and has some incredible ruins to explore.
Santa Maria Capua Vetere Naples Day Trip
Are you fascinated by the history of gladiators? If you want to see the area where Spartacus once lived, take a day trip to Santa Maria Capua Vetere. This little village is a 45 minute train ride from Napoli. It is home to the second largest ampitheatre in the Roman Empire next to the Colosseum.
Vico Equense
A small fishing village with a fantastic view of Mount Vesuvius and a quaint downtown piazza. Vico Equense is a beautiful village just five train stops from the popular town of Sorrento.
Sorrento
Sorrento is the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Despite being off the beaten path Sorrento, Italy is a popular destination. You will not be alone here, so expect crowds.
