For the second day in Rome we propose a day trip to one of the stunning coastlines in Italy, the Riviera di Ulisse, with its charming beach towns – Gaeta, Sperlonga, Terracina. If you have time, you can even make this trip longer: 2 – 3 days. You will have the opportunity to visit some nice coastal towns in the region of Latina, Italy, starting with Gaeta. The area is called the Riviera of Ulisee and one of its highlights is Montagna Spaccata. There are nice seaside resorts at the Tyrrhenian Sea, frequented by locals in the summer. We will mention Formia, Gaeta, Sperlonga, Terracina, Monte San Biagio, Fondi, with focus on Formia, Gaeta, Sperlonga and Terracina.
Italy Day Trip from Rome to Gaeta: A Coastal Escape
As you have to depart early towards your first destination – Gaeta, which is at around 170 km distance from Rome, you won’t have time for the usual breakfast. You can buy something from the Conad supermarket on the go. They open at 7.30 am. Or you have McDonalds in front of the train station, open 24h. And near the train station there is also Spinelli cafe that opens as early as 6.30 am.
From Hotel Virginia to Termini the itinerary is the same: turn left on Via Montebello, then turn left on Via Goito, turn right at Piazza dell’Indipendenza. Go forward on Via Solferino and continue straight forward on Viale Enrico de Nicola and then turn left at Piazza dei cinquecento and arrive at Termini metro and train station.
The trains in Italy usually are on time, so be there as early as possible if you want to arrive to Gaeta. At 8 am let’s say it would be OK. There is no train that gets actually to Gaeta, it gets to Formia, and from there you can take a bus to the destination. The train Roma Termini – Formia Gaeta can cost between 8.40 and 18 euros per person. The trip can last an hour and between 10 – 30 minutes. heck the Trainitalia website or the Trainline app.
Formia
Formia is a historic coastal town in Lazio, Italy, between Rome and Naples. Once a Roman resort (home to Cicero’s villa), Formia is known today for its ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and ferries to the Pontine Islands. The town’s lively waterfront, local markets, and traditional cuisine make Formia a vibrant destination for both relaxation and exploration.
From Formia train station you have to walk to Formia port. Then take the Cotral bus. The trip from Formia to Gaeta is a short one. Check the schedule at: https://servizi.cotralspa.it/Orari or you can also install the Cotral app.
From Formia Train Station head right, towards west on Piazza IV Novembre which further ahead changes its name in Via XXIV Maggio. At the 2nd intersection go left on Via Rialto Ferrovia and continue forward until you get to a square where you can find the Chiesa di Santa Teresa d’Avila.
If you didn’t have enough time to grab something to eat in Rome, and can’t wait until you arrive in Gaeta, get something from Recco Gastronomia in Formia, a sandwich or pastry. It is a deli store located in Formia central square, near the stairs and the church. But if you can, wait until arriving in Gaeta to taste some typical tielle (some sort of pizza) with octopus, and maybe also with olives.
Climb down the stairs near the church in the main square of Formia and get to an intersection with a wide street, then cross the street and continue forward on Via Cristoforo Colombo. At the intersection continue forward, cross the parking lot and go towards the roundabout and towards Formia port and find the bus stop on the right. That is Porto p.le Vespucci bus stop.
Exploring the Best Beach Towns in Italy near Rome: Gaeta, Sperlonga and Terracina
From Porto p.le Vespucci, Formia board the bus to Gaeta – Piazza della Libertà – 1.50 euro a ticket – a 10-minutes ride. Buses leave from Formia every 30 minutes according to the schedule. Try using the Coral App.
Gaeta
Arriving in Gaeta
It would be perfect to arrive in Gaeta as early as possible, at least at 10.30 am. Get off at Piazza della Libertà bus stop. From there to the Santissima Annunziata church is a 13-minutes walk.
The next stop on the Riviera di Ulisee would be the fancy little town of Sperlonga. Check the Cotral bus schedule to know when the buses depart to Sperlonga. They can leave every hour or every two hours.
First Stop: Exploring the Historic Center
From Piazza della Libertà turn right towards the sea and at the roundabout turn right on Via Lungomare Giovanni Caboto. Eat a slice of tiella with octopus and olives at Il Fornaio De Conca bakery; this is something traditional in Gaeta.
Continue forward on Via Lungomare Giovanni Caboto along the sea shore until arriving at an intersection; just after passing a church on the right, Chiesa di San Biagio turn right on Via Annunziata.
The Santissima Annunziata and Cappella d’Oro
Arrive at Cappella dell’Immacolata Concezione (Cappella d’Oro); it is just after passing underneath an arch, the first door on the left, and the next building is the Santuario della Santissima Annunziata, the entrance is form the piazza in front of it. Visit the beautiful Cappella d’Oro. There was born the Concept of the Inmaculate Conception of the Holy Virgin Mary.
Panoramic Views of Gaeta
After the Annunziata church turn left and continue further on Via Lungomare Giovanni Caboto, just along the sea shore, parallel to Via Faustina. From the sea shore you can capture panoramic pictures of Gaeta, including the Aragonese Castle (it is not open for visits). Continue forward on Via Lungomare Giovanni Caboto and see a piazza on the right, where you see Christian Bar. From this piazza look back and take a picture of the iconic Tempio di San Francesco d’Assisi.
Porta Domnica and the Cathedral Basilica
Continue forward on Via Lungomare Giovanni Caboto and after arriving at Piazzale Caboto parking lot (there you can look back and take another picture of Tempio di San Francesco d’Assisi and of the Annunziata Church tower) continue forward on the sea shore and, after passing a church and a bar called Lupo di Mare Guiness, continue forward and then turn right and arrive at Porta Domnica, an historical landmark.
From Porta Domnica continue right on Via Domo. Arrive at Campanile Cattedrale Duomo di Gaeta(Torre Medievale) and the Cathedral Basilica of Gaeta.
The Tempio di San Francesco d’Assisi
Turn right on Via Duomo and then continue further ahead at Piazza Generale Traniello. Get some refreshments from Ottimo Market grocery store for the walk to Montagna Spaccata, because there will be no other shop on the way.
You will get to a park where is the Monumento ai Caduti (on the right). Turn left on Via B. Nardone and then turn right on Via Nardone, and continue forward on Via Angioina until arriving at the beautiful Tempio di San Francesco d’Assisi, with its imposing statue of Saint Francis. The entry is free.
The terrace in front of the church offers breathtaking views of the splendid Gulf of Gaeta, on clear days you can admire the islands of Capri and Ischia, and the Vesuvius.
Walking to the Montagna Spaccata
From the Tempio di San Francesco d’Assisi to the Santuario de la Montagna Spaccata it’s a 20-minutes walk (1.4 km). From the Tempio di San Francesco d’Assisi go right, towards north west on Via Angioina, the road below not the upper one, the one that starts just at the right of the church as facing it. At the intersection turn left on Via della Breccia. At the next intersection keep left on Via della Breccia. Go with the road and then go forward (left) on Via Santissima Trinita. There is a panoramic point on the right from where you can see Serapo beach.
Grotta del Turco and the Montagna Spaccata
Continue forward on Via Santissima Trinita and arrive at the Santuario della Montagna Spaccata. It is a free entry. The Montagna Spaccata in Gaeta is a spectacular seaside sanctuary where legend and nature meet — a dramatic cliff said to have split at Christ’s death, offering breathtaking sea views, a sacred grotto, and a deep sense of peace and mystery. This “Montagna Spaccata” actually meaning a split cliff, has steps down to a seaside chapel dedicated to a 16th-century saint.
From the right of the building begins a Via Crucis that leads to the Chapel of San Filippo Neri. From the left another stairway leads to the Grotta del Turco. Grotta del Turco is a natural cave that, through 275 steps, descends directly into the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Go right and see the other sights: Santuario della Santissima Trinità , Montagna Spaccata, Cappella del SS. Crocifisso, Cappella di San Filippo Neri. To the right of the church there is a corridor decorated with the 14 stations of the Via Crucis painted on majolica, which leads to the sixteenth century chapel of San Filippo Neri. The route continues among the rocks of the Montagna Spaccata through a staircase that reaches the so-called “hand of the Turkish”, an imprint in the rock made by an unbeliever, the bed of St. Philip Neri and the Chapel of the Crucifix.
What Can Be Visited at the Santuario della Santissima Trinità , Montagna Spaccata
- The Sanctuary of the Most Holy Trinity, built in 930;
- “Grotta del Turco”, a spectacle of nature;
- Missionary Exhibition;
- Stages of the Via Crucis, painted on a majolica of 1849;
- Chapel of St. Filippo Neri;
- Impression on the rock of the hand of a “Turkish sailor“;
- “The Bed” of S. Filippo Neri carved from the rock;
- Chapel of the Crucifix;
- Terrace from where you can admire the “Montagna Spaccata”.
Returning to Piazza della Libertà from Montagna Spaccata
From the Santuario de la Montagna Spaccata back to Piazza della Libertà is another 20-minutes walk (1.4 km). Go on Via Santissima Trinita and at the intersection keep left forward on Via Munanzio Planco. From this point you can see Serapo Beach on the left.
Keep going with the road and at the big intersection turn right on Via Firenze. Continue forward at the next small intersection and at the next one go left on Via Piave, before arriving at the park. At the third intersection turn right on Via Luigi Cadorna. Then turn left and arrive in Piazza della Libertà .
If hungry and there is enough time left till the bus to Sperlonga departs, eat a slice of pizza at Pizzeria Rustica or have a gelato from Sangria booth.
Getting to Sperlonga from Gaeta
Take the Cotral bus from Gaeta – Piazza della Libertà (via Giuseppe Mazzini) to Sperlonga – Piazza Europa – 1.5 euro a ticket, a 20-minutes trip. Check the bus schedule: https://servizi.cotralspa.it/Orari, or use the Cotral app.
Sperlonga
Arrival in Piazza Europa, Sperlonga
Arrive in Piazza Europa, Sperlonga. Besides Gaeta, Sperlonga is a hidden gem beach town in Italy, mostly frequented by locals. From Piazza Europa go towards left, cross the street, climb the stairs, go behind the building that is the city hall. Cross the piazza towards east and admire the panoramic view from the Belvedere Sperlonga point.
Exploring the Historic Center of Sperlonga
Go right on Corso S. Leone and arrive in the Piazzetta, in the historic center of Sperlonga. Search for a place to eat if hungry. There are nice places, such as Cocktail Bar, Bar Trani and MarVino, at the other end of the piazzetta. From the piazzetta go right on Via Orticello and arrive at MarVino. It is a nice place to sit on the steps outside. It is a little hidden away so it takes some finding.
Strolling Through the White Alleys of Sperlonga Old Town
Then go back to the Piazzetta and go right on Via Tiberio and then turn right on Via Ripa. Wander on the tiny white alleys of the Sperlonga old town.
Torre Truglia and Sperlonga Port
Then continue on Via Ripa, go with the road and then this changes its name in Via Torre Truglia. Go down on the road and climb down some stairs and arrive at Torre Truglia and on the left you can see Sperlonga Port and the beach nearby.
Lunch and Relaxing in Piazza Fontana
From Torre Truglia go left on Via del Porto and continue till arriving at Piazza Fontana. On the way Via del Porto changes its name in Via della Saponera and then in Via San Rocco. If hungry eat something at Fiorelli, a sandwich or pastry or at Ristorante Pizzeria Tropical, while sitting on the terrace and taking in the sea views and beach vibes of Sperlonga.
If not that hungry, try the supermarkets at Piazza Fontana.
Sperlonga Beach Options
The small town of Sperlonga is famous for its stunning beaches — some of the most beautiful along the Lazio coast between Rome and Naples. The town sits atop a rocky promontory, and below it stretch long, golden-sand beaches lapped by clear, turquoise water. Here are a few highlights:
- Spiaggia di Levante (East Beach) – Located on the side of Sperlonga toward Terracina, this beach is known for its soft sand, gentle waves, and also its family-friendly vibe. You’ll find both public and private lidos with umbrellas, loungers, and beach cafés.
- Spiaggia di Ponente (West Beach) – This side of Sperlonga beach tends to be a little wider and less crowded, with excellent views of the Sperlonga old town perched above. It’s ideal for sunset walks and water sports like paddleboarding.
- Grotta di Tiberio (Tiberius’ Cave) – Near the archaeological museum at the northern end of Sperlonga, this small cove combines beach time with history — the Roman Emperor Tiberius had a seaside villa here, and the grotto still holds ancient sculptures and ruins.
The beaches at Sperlonga regularly earn Blue Flag status for cleanliness and environmental quality. With its mix of history, charm, and Mediterranean beauty, Sperlonga’s beaches are a favorite weekend escape for Romans and an underrated gem for international travelers.
Returning to Piazza Europa
From Piazza Fontana go right on Via Roma and then turn right on Via Torre di Nibbio – it is a small street on the right in front of a pharmacy. Turn right and go up – the street is also called Via Torre di Nibbio. At the next intersection turn right and then left and climb the stairs and arrive in Via Municipio. Finally, go right and arrive in Piazza Europa.
Taking the Cotral Bus from Sperlonga to Terracina
Catch the Cotral bus Sperlonga Piazza Europa – Terracina (Via Roma – Piazza XXV Aprile) – 1.5 euros per person – a 26-minutes ride. Check the bus schedule at: https://servizi.cotralspa.it/Orari, or you can also use the Cotral app.
Terracina
Arrival in Terracina – Piazza XXV Aprile
Get off at Piazza XXV Aprile. Go right on Via Roma towards the sea shore, pass through Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi and then arrive at the beach and go left on Lungomare Matteotti. From this point you can see Pisco Montano and also Tempio di Giove Anxur.
Exploring the Historic Center of Terracina
Next, you should visit the historic center, so head to Piazza Municipio – it is a 16-minutes walk (1,2 km). Go back to Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi. Just after passing Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, turn right after Chiesa del Santissimo Salvatore, which is across the street, through Piazza della Libertà and go on Via Annunziata. Keep forward until arriving at Palazzo della Bonificazione Pontina. From the terrace you can admire the views.
Piazza Municipio and Terracina Cathedral
From Palazzo della Bonificazione Pontina go back and arrive in Via Annunziata and go left towards north. Arrive in Piazza Municipio. There you can see Terracina Cathedral and the Capitolium di Terracina.
Corso Anita Garibaldi and Chiesa del Purgatorio
From Piazza Municipio go to the left of the Bell Tower of the Cathedral and through the passage and you will reach Corso Anita Garibaldi and keep straight until arriving at Palazzo Dei Vallecorsani and turn right on Via S. Lorenzo and arrive at Chiesa del Purgatorio (Chiesa delle Anime del Purgatorio) – a 2-minutes walk.
Returning to Piazza XXV Aprile
From Chiesa del Purgatorio go back the same way to Palazzo della Bonificazione Pontina – a 10-minutes walk. From Palazzo della Bonificazione Pontina go right and climb down the stairs and arrive in Via Posterula and continue down the road. At the intersection turn left and continue on Via Roma, pass by the Post Office, cross the street to the right and arrive at Piazza XXV Aprile.
Where to Eat in Terracina Before Returning
Maybe you won’t have enough time for a proper dinner, as you have to return to Rome. So, you can grab a sandwich, a slice of pizza or some pastry. Some options would be Pizzeria Miseria e Nobiltà Terracina, near the bus station, so you can eat before the departure. They serve pizza, pizza by the slice etc. It is not a fancy place, but the pizza is good and the prices are low. The place is frequented by locals. Another option can be Pizzeria L’ ammiraglio Terracina serving good Neapolitan pizza at low prices and excellent quality.
Cotral Bus and Train Connection to Rome
From Via Roma (Piazza XXV Aprile) board the Cotral bus to Staz. FS Monte S. Biagio – 1.5 euros per person – a 15-minutes ride. Check the bus schedule: https://servizi.cotralspa.it/Orari.
Then you can take the train from Staz. FS Monte S. BIagio Terracina Mare to Roma Termini. The price is usually 7 euros per person and the ride will take approximately 1.20 h. Check in advance the Trenitalia website or use the Trainline app.
Gaeta, Sperlonga & Terracina Highlights: Food, Views & Italy Local Charm
Each of these seaside towns offers its own unique blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights — making them perfect for a coastal day trip from Rome. Gaeta stands out with its dramatic coastline and medieval old town, where you can stroll along the seafront promenade and enjoy local specialties like tiella — a savory pie filled with octopus or vegetables.
Just a short drive away, Sperlonga charms visitors with its whitewashed houses, cliffside views, and also a relaxed beach atmosphere. The town is ideal for slow wandering and soaking in views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Don’t miss the chance to walk the narrow alleys and stop at a café with a view.
Terracina, meanwhile, blends ancient ruins with a laid-back beach vibe. You’ll find plenty of local trattorias serving fresh seafood, and if you have time, the walk up to the Temple of Jupiter offers breathtaking panoramas over the coastline. Each town has its own rhythm, but together they capture the essence of Lazio’s southern coast — a perfect blend of sun, sea, and Italian soul.
In conclusion, the trip from Rome to some of the most charming coastal towns in Italy – Gaeta, Sperlonga and Terracina, and back to Rome, would cost 21.5 – 41.5 euros per person. If you have time and a bigger budget you can spend a few nights in a hotel in Sperlonga and this way you can visit the 3 towns at a slower pace and also spend time at the beach!
Dinner in Rome
Then, back in Rome, choose a place for dinner near the Virginia Hotel or near Termini station:
- Pizzeria del Secolo, located near Termini, is open until 2:30AM. They sell pizza by the slice for a quick meal. Prices are very reasonable.
- Florian’s Cafe, situated between Termini and the hotel, is open until 12AM.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Il Cuore di Napoli is located near Virginia Hotel, open for dinner between 6:30PM–12AM. Sometimes they offer a 20% discount on The Fork app. They serve good Neapolitan pizza with fresh ingredients, and good seafood at reasonable prices.
- Steak House cucina tipica romana dal 1932 is a restaurant situated just in front of Virginia Hotel, open 6–11.30PM.
Read On
Be sure to check out our Day 3 itinerary to continue exploring — from hidden corners to grand vistas, there’s much more to discover. Also, you can find all our posts about Rome on this page. And for more inspiration and practical tips on visiting Italy, grab our maps and travel guides and head over to our Italy Travel Hub and Italy Bucket List — your starting point for all things Italian! Want to discover more? Don’t miss our posts on Naples, and also our day trips to the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii.
Thanks for reading!
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