5 Day Trips from Rome for Foodies
Rome might have more to do and see than you can fit into a lifetime, but sometimes it is nice to escape the Eternal City and soak up somewhere different. As foodies, we love nothing better than history, culture, and sightseeing with a little local food and wine. So here are our suggestions for five easy day trips from Rome which combine our love of Italy, travel, and gastronomy.
Hotfoot it to Florence
Just 90 minutes on the fast train will take you to the capital of the Tuscany region and cradle of the Renaissance. Get your culture fix at the Uffizi or Accademia museums, wander over the iconic Ponte Vecchio to the trendy Oltrarno and climb the dome of the gorgeous Duomo for spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside.
Eat & Drink: Dare to try a lampredotto (tripe) sandwich at one of the many street sellers and pop into one of the city’s cozy enoteche for a bottle of Tuscan red wine.
Explore the Castelli Romani
Located south-east of Rome, the group of hill towns known collectively as the Castelli Romani make an easy escape from the hustle and bustle of the center. Visit the winding streets of charming towns such as Frascati, Marino, and Ariccia, stroll around the lakes of Albano and Nemi or check out the historic papal residence in Castel Gandolfo.
Eat & Drink: Devour the spectacular porchetta of Ariccia, washed down by a glass of local Frascati wine.
Take the Fast Train to Naples
There is nowhere quite like Naples, and a short train ride of just over an hour makes it an easy hop from Rome. For the true Neopolitan experience, roam along Spaccanapoli and absorb the sights, smells, and colors of this vibrant city. Don’t miss the nativity figurine shops on Via San Gregorio Armeno and the amazing market of Pignasecca.
Eat & Drink: Don’t miss the chance to eat authentic pizza in its place of birth, grab some delicious fried street food on the go and satisfy your sweet tooth with a classic sfogliatella, a decadently sweet stuffed pastry.
Chill out at the Beach
It is easy to forget how close Rome is to the coast, but a simple train trip will reward you with some seaside relaxation. Head north up the Tyrrhenian Coast to the lovely quaint beach towns of Santa Marinella and Santa Severa, or travel south to Anzio or Nettuno to get that feeling of sand between your toes.
Eat & Drink: Sample the local seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants, there is nothing like dining on a plate of spaghetti alle vongole while staring out to the sparkling sea.
Discover the Charm of Orvieto
Orvieto’s magnificent position atop a lump of volcanic rock makes it the perfect vantage point to admire the gently rolling, verdant hills of Umbria. Visit the town’s distinctive striped cathedral to see the spectacular frescoes and explore deep inside the rock with a tour of Orvieto’s underground caves and tunnels before a long, leisurely lunch.
Eat & Drink: Try Umbrian specialties such as local cheeses, cured meats, and truffles paired with the renowned white Orvieto wine.
For more food and travel recommendations take a look at the Local Aromas blog, and when in Rome, take a food tour, wine tasting, or cooking class to gain local insider knowledge and tips on Italy’s best food and wine.
