Destination Italy: The Eternal City of Rome, Gaeta, Vatican, Nemi and Tivoli – Day 4

For the 4th day in the eternal city of Rome we propose you a half-day trip to the area in Italy called the Castelli Romani, where you can visit the charming little town of Nemi and maybe also Castel Gandolfo, followed by a visit to Trastevere at your return in Rome.

Hotels in Rome

If you’re planning to explore both Rome and the Castelli Romani area, staying in central Rome makes an excellent base for day trips.

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Half-Day Trip from Rome to Nemi, Italy and Castelli Romani

To get to Nemi, Italy you have to arrive early at Termini to take the metro to Anagnina to be sure to catch the bus leaving at 9.30. The metro ride takes 23 minutes. So, the breakfast has to be quick, grab something from the supermarket or from Florian’s Cafe in Rome, before your day trip to Nemi.

Getting to Nemi, Italy: Directions and Tips

From Termini Metro Station get line A metro and in 23 minutes you will arrive at Anagnina. From there board the Cotral bus towards Nemi. On this day trip from Rome you will have to change buses in Genzano di Roma. Get off in Genzano di Roma, bus stop Via Dalla Chiesa. From there get back to a roundabout and turn right on Viale Fratelli Rosselli. Continue forward, cross the town and get to the bus stop in Piazza Frasconi Tomasso. From there get on the bus to Piazza Roma – Nemi, Italy. It would take around 1 h and 30 minutes from Rome Anagnina to Nemi. A metro ticket costs 1.5 euros. And the bus tickets would cost the same 1.5 euros each one. The price for the return trip to Nemi would be 9 euros per person. Check the Cotral bus schedule in advance.

Get off at Piazza Roma – Nemi, Italy. Check the bus schedule for your return to Rome, the bus departs from the same bus stop. 2 – 3 hours are enough for a quick visit of the village.

Castelli Romani & Nemi tours

Don’t have a rental car? Guided day trips from Rome make visiting Nemi and the Castelli Romani region easy and stress-free.

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Exploring Nemi, Italy: Highlights and Local Flavors

From the bus station go left, down the road and after the parking lot arrive at Roseto di Nemi within the convent of Santuario del Santissimo Crocifisso – 1 minute walk.

Go back to Piazza Roma and take a photo of the Cupid fountain. On the right there is Bar dei Pini Bernasconi Rossella. It is a nice place to visit and maybe grab a coffee or a snack. They sell local products, especially meat specialties.

Then go forward on Corso Vittorio Emanuele, not on the street on the left. There is a fountain on the left, just before Byron Bar. Pass by the Post Office on the left, continue straight on Corso Vittorio Emanuele and arrive at Bar Delle Fragole Di Iorio Emiliano with its nice terrace. It is a nice place to buy some pastries or a dessert maybe. Their prices are very reasonable: 2 – 10 euros. Buy something with strawberries, because Nemi is famous for its strawberries, considered among the best in Italy.

Ruspoli Palace and Scenic Views of Lake Nemi, Italy

At the intersection go left on Via Plebiscito and find Ruspoli Palace. Keep forward on Via Plebiscito and arrive at Bar Sirena del Lago and a Belvedere point.

Go back at the intersection where the Ruspoli Palace is and turn left on Via Giulia. Visit Fantasie Mediterranee Di Borgognoni Laura – a nice supermarket with traditional products and souvenirs.

At the next intersection go left on Via Giulia. Find the Fountain of the Gorgon just at the intersection on the left. You can refill your bottle with some cold fresh water.

Keep forward and arrive at Terrazza degli Innamorati scenic spot. From there you can admire the Lake of Nemi and the surrounding landscape.

Le Scalette Lunch and Return Route in Nemi, Italy

Go back to the Fountain of the Gorgon and on Via Giulia and, in front of Ruspoli Palace, go left on Piazza Umberto I and forward on Salita Garibaldi and arrive at Le Scalette Restaurant. Nice for picture and to have lunch there if not crowded. It is a typical family-run restaurant. The menu offers traditional dishes at honest prices 20 – 30 euros per person.

From Le Scalette go back and turn left on Via Municipio and continue right on Via Salita della Chiesa. Arrive in Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Continue back to Piazza Roma.

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Optional Extended Tour of Castelli Romani from Nemi, Italy

If you plan to stay longer in Italy and you have a larger budget you can have an extensive Castelli Romani tour and, besides Nemi, you can visit the beautiful towns and villages of Genzano di Roma, Ariccia, Marino, Grottaferrata, Frascati, Monte Compatri, Rocca di Papa and Castel Gandolfo. You can chose some of these locations for another day trip from Rome, or at least go to Castel Gandolfo. You can enjoy the views of the varied landscape, the flowers, and also the good food: wine, porchetta, beer, chocolate, mushrooms, berries.

For example, you could plan a relaxing day trip to Frascati, famous for its elegant villas, charming historic center, and excellent white wine — perfect for a leisurely lunch with panoramic views of Rome.

If you enjoy history and local traditions, plan a day trip from Rome to Ariccia, known for its grand baroque Palazzo Chigi and the lively “fraschette” taverns serving traditional porchetta. In Marino, you can explore beautiful churches and time your visit for the famous Grape Festival in autumn.

Also, consider a day trip from Rome to Grottaferrata to visit the ancient Greek Abbey of San Nilo or to Rocca di Papa and Monte Compatri for scenic hikes and breathtaking views of the Alban Hills. Each of these destinations makes for an easy and rewarding day trip from Rome, offering a perfect mix of nature, culture, and authentic Italian life.

Castel Gandolfo

Another nice town in Italy is Castel Gandolfo, situated quite close to Nemi. Castel Gandolfo is a picturesque hilltop town overlooking Lake Albano, renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning views, and the historic Papal Palace that once served as the Pope’s summer residence.

Alongside Nemi, Castel Gandolfo is regarded as one of the most picturesque towns in Italy. Within Castel Gandolfo you can find the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo which served as a summer residence and vacation retreat for the pope, and now is open as a museum. You can visit the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo for 14 euros a ticket, open Monday – Saturday between 9 am – 6 pm (4 pm last admission).

While in Castel Gandolfo, also visit Villa Barberini and Barberini Garden – entry ticket is 23 euros, open only Saturday and Sunday between 10 am and 6 pm. Villa Barberini is a magnificent historic villa in Castel Gandolfo, featuring beautiful Baroque architecture and also lush gardens. The adjoining Barberini Garden offers a peaceful escape with its carefully designed terraces, fountains, and panoramic views of Lake Albano, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll in Castel Gandolfo. The coastline of Lake Albano is full of summer residences and also villas, and cottages built in the 17th century.

Explore Italy Your Way

Planning your Italian adventure? Arrange a taxi transfer or rent a car to explore Rome, Gaeta, Nemi and Tivoli at your own pace.

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Car Rental

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Trastevere: Rome’s Most Picturesque Neighborhood

As your day trip to Nemi ended, follow the same return itinerary to Rome Termini.

Then back in Rome after the half day trip, the next destination we propose is Trastevere. From Roma Termini first head to Bocca della Verità; it is a 15-minutes bus ride. Then take bus 170 in the direction Agricoltura, travel 9 stops. From the metro station Termini go left on Piazza dei Cinquecento and find bus 170 stop.

Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth)

From 170 bus stop Boca della Verita’ continue forward and pass by the Fountain of the Tritons and then cross the street and finally arrive at Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth). If not crowded you should visit.

Afterwards, from Bocca della Verita cross back the street and go north west on Largo Americo Petrucci and pass bythe Forum Boarium – former Roman livestock market and site of the first gladiatorial combat, cross the street and pass by the Cloaca Maxima (ancient Rome sewer), cross Ponte Palatino over the Tiber to get to Trastevere. See Ponte Rotto (Ponte Emilio) – oldest stone bridge in Rome, circa 2nd century BCE, and the Tiber Island on the right.

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere and Dining Options

After Ponte Palatino go left along the river on Lungotevere Ripa. Turn right in front of Eni Gas station on Via dei Vascellari. Continue forward on this street until you arrive at a second piazza that is Piazza di Santa Cecilia and there is Santa Cecilia in Trastevere cloistered convent, housing Cavallini’s masterpiece fresco.

If hungry, eat at Il Vascellari; they sometimes have a 25% discount on The Fork app. Their dishes are very good, and prices are ok: 10 – 15 euros a course.

Trastevere Food & Walking Tours

Rome’s dining scene is vast, making it hard to find truly memorable spots without local insight. This small-group tour helps you skip tourist traps and discover standout eateries in Trastevere. Sample 10 Roman specialties including a full pasta meal, pizza, gelato, plus Italian wines, local beer, or non-alcoholic drinks, all while exploring one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods with an in-the-know guide.

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From Santa Cecilia in Trastevere go back left on Via Santa Cecilia and at the first intersection turn left on Via dei Genovesi. Continue forward on Via dei Genovesi until arriving at an intersection with a large road and turn right on Piazza Sidney Sonnino. Cross the street and at the second intersection, just after a church, go left on the charming Trastevere street in Rome – the instagramable Via della Lungaretta. You can eat at Antica Osteria Rugantino and also have a refreshing granita on the Tiber’s shore at Alla Fonte d’Oro – Grattachecca dal 1913. Antica Osteria Rugantino is a nicely decorated restaurant, a great place to sit outside and people watch. It’s a traditional Rome osteria in Trastevere serving good food at reasonable prices: 6 – 20 euros a course.

Piazza di Santa Maria and Nearby Attractions

Then go back on Via della Lungaretta. Continue forward on this street until you finally arrive in a large piazza – Piazza di Santa Maria. Here you will find Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere – free entry, and also Fontana di S. Maria in Trastevere.

Wander around, because the narrow streets of Trastevere neighborhood in Rome are very charming. From the middle of the Piazza di Santa Maria go north on Via della Fonte d’Olio. Then at the intersection go forward (right) on Vicolo del Piede and at the next intersection turn right on Via della Pelliccia and inally arrive at Antico Caffè del Moro, old-world venue with a nicely decorated façade.

As exiting Antico Caffe del Moro, go right, towards West on Via della Pelliccia and at the intersection turn right on Vicolo del Cinque. See the famous BAR del Cinque, one of the most photographed places in Trastevere.

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Walk from Trastevere to the Janiculum Terrace (Belvedere del Gianicolo) in Rome

From Santa Maria in Trastevere up to the Janiculum Terrace, on of the seven hills in Rome, is a 15-minutes walk.

From BAR del Cinque go forward south on Piazza di S. Egidio. Continue south and at the intersection turn right on Via della Paglia.

Or, as facing the Basilica Santa Maria in Trastevere go right on Via della Paglia. Continue on this street until arriving at a high school and there turn right on Vicolo della Frusta. At the small intersection go left and climb the stairs to arrive in Via Garibaldi and go north (turn right). Then at the first intersection go left on Via di Porta di S. Pancrazio. There is a fountain from where you can drink water just at the intersection, on the left.

Continue up on this street, climb the stairs and at the intersection see Fontana dell’Acqua Paola on the left, you have to go left a little to see it. Then turn back and continue up north and at the intersection go on the street in the middle – a street called Passeggiata del Janiculum. Continue on this alley until finally arriving at Terraza del Janiculum (Belvedere del Gianicolo) – well-known hilltop terrace near Trastevere offering panoramic views of Rome.

From Janiculum terrace go north to the bus station P.le G. Garibaldi and board the 115 or 870 bus and travel for 7 stops and get off at Lgt.Sangallo/Perosi bus stop.

Evening Sightseeing in Rome’s Historic Center

From the bus stop, which is just near a parking called Via Giulia Parking, go south along the Tiber. Pass by the bridge Ponte Giuseppe Mazzini and, after the second intersection on the left, you’ll see some orange buildings on the left, the first ones have an orange concrete fence and then the fence ends and you will find an archway with stairs, just between two orange buildings. Go down the stairs on this archway called Vicolo del Polverone.

Piazza Farnese and Campo de’ Fiori Market

Then go left on Via Giulia, arrive at an intersection where you will find Fontana del Mascherone on the left. Continue forward and turn right at the next intersection on Via dei Farnesi. You will arrive in Piazza Farnese where is Palazzo Farnese, famous Renaissance palace built by Michelangelo, used as a French embassy now. From the middle of the Piazza go left north east on the street in the middle – Via de’ Baullari. Continue ahead and arrive in Campo de’ Fiori, public square hosting a popular local produce market, selling fruits, vegetables and also other general goods.

Rome Walking Tours

Choose from walking tours that include Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, and nearby landmarks.

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Piazza Navona

Continue forward on Via de’ Baullari. At the first intersection keep forward on Via de’ Baullari. Then at the intersection with Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, second intersection – large one, cross the street. Pass by San Pantaleo church. Then go north east on Via della Cuccagna. At the crossroads keep forward on Via della Cuccagna and finally arrive in Piazza Navona – elegant square dating from the 1st century A.D., where you will find many bars and some street artists. See the three baroque fountains: Fontana del Moro, Fontana dei Fiumi, Fontana del Nettuno. The church Sant’agnese in Agone is in the middle.

Piazza della Rotonda and The Pantheon

From the middle of the piazza, by the church, go on the street called Corsia Agonale. Arrive in Piazza Madama and go left on Corso del Rinascimento just a little, cross the street and go right on Via del Salvatore. Go ahead on Via del Salvatore and at the intersection also go forward on Via Giustiniani. Pass by a Coop supermarket. Finally arrive in Piazza della Rotonda and find the Pantheon. This iconic temple was built circa 118 to 125 A.D.. For a striking photo, take a picture of the Fontana del Pantheon with the Pantheon in the back. Also capture the Pantheon from Via del Pantheon, located in the northwestern corner of Piazza della Rotonda, after passing Tempio Bar. Moreover, snap a photo of a gelato in front of the Pantheon. And if you have the chance, photograph a horse and carriage in front of the Pantheon.

Pantheon Tours & Entry Tickets

A 45-minute guided tour of Rome’s Pantheon with reserved entry, an expert local guide, and historical and architectural insights, including a visit to Raphael’s tomb.

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Surround the Pantheon and see Basilica di Nettuno in the back, on Via della Palombella alley.

Entry to the Pantheon is free of charge. It is open daily between 9 am and 6.45 pm. Also, once you are in the area, you should grab an ice cream from Cremeria Monteforte.

If you want to visit Largo di Torre Argentina, go in the back of the Pantheon and head south on Via della Rotonda and keep forward until you get to a big intersection, cross the street and arrive at Largo di Torre Argentina and the Feral Feline Colonies Torre Argentina (Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary). There is free access, but a donation would be appreciated. It is an archaeological site close to where Julius Caesar was killed.

Best Photo Spots Around the Pantheon

Then go back to the Pantheon. From the Basilica di Nettuno in the back, on Via della Palombella continue east and at the intersection turn right on Via della Minerva and then arrive in a square where you can see the Obelisco della Minerva (Elephant and Obelisk). Photo suggestion: photograph the Elephant Obelisk with the Pantheon in the background. Afterwards, exit the square by the south east exit – Via Santa Caterina da Siena.

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Evening and Dinner Recommendations in Rome

Strolling Through Rome’s Historic Streets and Dinner Delights

At the intersection continue left on Via di Piè di Marmo. Then at the next intersection see the statue Piè di Marmo, which is a large restored marble foot with sandal, the remains of an ancient Roman statue. Back on Via di Pie di Marmo, at the intersection turn left on Via di S. Ignazio and at the end of the street, turn right again and arrive in Piazza di Sant’Ignazio and there you will find Sant’Ignazio di Loyola Church.

Leave Piazza di Sant’Ignazio by the south western exit and get on Via del Seminario and at the first  intersection go right on Via delle Paste.

At the end of the street turn right on Via dei Pastini, continue forward and finally arrive in Piazza di Pietra with the Tempio di Adriano on the right – Roman temple from 145 AD, now the façade of Rome’s stock exchange.

It’s time for dinner. Continue right on Via di Pietra and at the first intersection finally arrive in Via Corso. 

Go left, towards north on Via del Corso and at the sixth intersection turn left on Via del Parlamento, after passing Zara store on the right, it’s the first street on the left. Continue forward and Via del Parlamento becomes Via della Impresa. When the street ends, after the piazza and the parking lot turn left, on Via della Impressa and immediately turn right on a small street called Vicolo Rosini. Find Da Gino al Parlamento restaurant on the left.

Da Gino al Parlamento is open Monday – Saturday between 1–3 PM and 8–11 PM, closed on Sunday. It is an old-world trattoria with frescoes on its vaulted ceiling. It is frequented by locals. They serve classic Italian food, at reasonable prices: 12 – 16 euros a course.

Return and Transit to Accommodation

From Da Gino al Parlamento go back to Via del Corso through Via della Impressa and then Via del Parlamento, and after the street finishes turn right on Via del Corso. Continue south and at the second intersection go left on Largo Chigi just in front of Zara store. Cross the street and find Largo Chigi bus stop and take the bus no. 492 towards Tributina. Finally get off at Volturno/Cernaia bus stop. It is a 10-minutes ride, 6 stops (492 bus operates until 11 pm.

From Volturno/Cernaia bus stop go left back a little and at the first intersection go left on Via Montebello. Keep forward until arriving at Virginia Hotel.

Find the Best Area to Stay in Rome

Choosing the right area can make your visit to Rome much easier. The city is large, and your accommodation location can affect how much time you spend travelling between attractions.

Staying near Roma Termini can be convenient if you plan to use trains, buses or the metro, especially if you are arriving by train or planning day trips outside the city.

Alternatively, explore accommodation in the historic centre, near the Vatican, around Trastevere or in other neighbourhoods that suit your itinerary and budget.

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Discover the Colosseum and Ancient Rome

The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and a fascinating place to begin exploring the city’s ancient past. Nearby, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill reveal the remains of the political, religious and social heart of ancient Rome.

Allow enough time to explore the archaeological area. A guided tour can help bring the ruins to life and explain the history behind the monuments.

Booking tickets in advance can be helpful, particularly during busy travel periods. Check official ticket conditions, entry times and inclusions before booking.

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Visit Vatican City and St Peter’s Basilica

Vatican City is one of the most remarkable places to visit during a stay in Rome. St Peter’s Basilica, St Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums offer an extraordinary combination of architecture, art and history.

If you want to see the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, plan your visit carefully and check ticket availability ahead of time. A guided tour may help you understand the artworks and the history of the collections.

Remember to check current visitor rules and dress requirements before visiting religious sites.

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Explore Rome on a Walking Tour

Walking is one of the best ways to experience Rome. Explore historic squares, impressive fountains, picturesque streets and beautiful churches while discovering the stories behind the city’s most famous landmarks.

Depending on your interests, choose a general introduction to Rome, an ancient history tour, a food walk or an evening tour through the historic centre.

A guided walk can be particularly useful if you have limited time and want to understand more about the places you see.

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Take a Day Trip to Tivoli

Tivoli is a rewarding day trip from Rome, known for its historic villas, gardens and beautiful surroundings. It offers a change of pace from the busy streets of the capital.

Villa d’Este is famous for its gardens and fountains, while Hadrian’s Villa offers a fascinating look at the extensive ancient residence built for Emperor Hadrian.

Check opening times, ticket requirements and transport options before setting out. Depending on your plans, you may want to focus on one villa or make a longer day of your visit.

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Discover Nemi and the Castelli Romani

For a different perspective on Lazio, consider visiting Nemi, a small town overlooking Lake Nemi in the Castelli Romani area. Its scenic setting makes it a lovely place to slow down and enjoy a break from the city.

The area is also known for its local food traditions and strawberries. You can combine a visit to Nemi with other towns in the Castelli Romani, depending on the time available.

Check public transport connections or consider a guided excursion if you prefer not to organise the journey yourself.

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VisitGaeta and the Riviera di Ulisse

Gaeta combines a historic old town, coastal scenery and Mediterranean atmosphere. It can be a lovely addition to a wider Lazio itinerary if you want to experience more than the main attractions of Rome.

Explore the historic centre, enjoy the sea views and leave time to discover the area’s beaches and local cuisine. The best plan will depend on the season and your transport arrangements.

If you are travelling from Rome, check journey times and connections in advance. A day trip may be possible, but an overnight stay can give you more time to explore at a relaxed pace.

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Plan Transport Around Rome and Lazio

Rome has public transport connections including metro lines, buses and trams. For many central attractions, walking is also a practical way to get around, although distances can add up.

If you plan to visit places such as Tivoli, Nemi or Gaeta, check the relevant train and bus connections before travelling. Some destinations may require transfers or additional local transport.

For airport transfers, day trips or journeys with several stops, compare the available options and allow extra time for connections.

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Find Restaurants in Rome

Rome is a wonderful city for discovering Italian food, from traditional Roman pasta dishes to neighbourhood trattorias, pizzerias and restaurants serving seasonal specialities.

Use TheFork to explore restaurants, compare reviews and check available reservation times. Booking ahead can be useful for popular restaurants, particularly during busy periods.

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Plan Your Rome and Lazio Adventure

Want to organise your visit more easily? Use our Rome and Lazio travel guide to help plan your sightseeing days, choose places to visit and make the most of your time in the region.

Explore Rome’s historic landmarks and discover destinations beyond the capital, including Tivoli, Nemi and Gaeta.

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Read On

Be sure to check out our Day 5 itinerary to continue exploring — from hidden corners to grand vistas, there’s much more to discover. You can find all our posts about Rome on this page. 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! Also, if you’re looking to expand your itinerary, don’t miss our posts on Naples, and also our day trips to the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii.

Thanks for reading!

Related:

• Italy Travel — All Our Posts and Guides for Italy
• Our Eternal City of Rome, Gaeta, Vatican, Nemi and Tivoli Italy Visit: Day 4
• Destination Italy: The Eternal City of Rome, Gaeta, Vatican, Nemi and Tivoli – Day 1
• Destination Italy: The Eternal City of Rome, Gaeta, Vatican, Nemi and Tivoli – Day 5
• Our Eternal City of Rome, Gaeta, Vatican, Nemi and Tivoli Italy Visit: Day 3

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