I'm planning my itinerary, and I think I might have one extra day in Rome.
So, I was thinking of adding a daytrip to somewhere close by. Does anyone have any good suggestions? I was thinking Naples, but I also heard its not a safe place for travelers right now. My travel mates have suggested Pompeii & Vesuvius. Is there enough time to do both Pompeii and Vesuvius on the same day?
Or is there a better location?
Many people on this board, myself included, will tell you to check out Ostia Antica instead. It was the old Roman seaport and many of the buildings are still (mostly) intact. The ancient Roman ruins in Rome itself are impressive but they are also generally fenced off. In Ostia, you can sit in the ampitheater, climb up to the top of the grand temple or an apartment building, etc. I loved it!
It's also a lot closer to Rome. I think it's about 45 minutes south of the city and you can get there using the metro/train. Do a search for Ostia Antica in the search box in the upper right corner for more info. Rick Steves's Rome guidebook also has an excellent detailed walking tour of Ostia.
I would echo Liz re: Ostia Antica--Hadrian's Villa/Villa d'este in Tivoli are also popular day trips. I would go to Pompeii/Vesuvius over Naples...it is possible to do them both but would be pushing it. You can do Pompeii in a day but it will be a long one. If you aren't likely to be back in Italy for a while, I would say go to Pompeii. If it's likely you'll be back in a little while, I would wait and do it as part of a southern Italy trip.
I would suggest the Appian Way. It's the old thousand year old trading road lined with sights. It's a fun walk especially if the weather is decent and gets you out of Central Rome. This is especially fun if you rent a bike (there's a bike shop at one end whose name escapes me now) and ride along the road.
Rick Steves suggests Orvieto for an Umbrian hill-town experience. I spent a day there several years ago. It is about a 1-hour train ride from Rome. There is a lot of history there, beautiful old buildings, spectacular Duomo, great ceramics, great views, and good eating, but best of all is just wandering around all the fascinating medieval streets.
I highly suggest Pompeii. I don't know how the time line would work out to do Pompeii and Vesuvius in the same day. However, I do love Pompeii. It is amazing. It really all depends on how much time and how adventurous you are (taking the train and connecting in Naples). If you have the time and you want to try something new go for Pompeii. It is a one of a kind place. I am sure the other places mentioned are great also, and you won't be disappointed either way you go. If you have any questions about Pompeii that you would like to ask I will help as much as possable.
If you want to see a buried city, I vote for Ostia Antica. Having been to both Pompeil and OS you can get the same feeling at OA. I think Pompeil is bit too far from Rome for a day trip. Too much travel. Also, on the way to OA you can see the cathedral "Outside the Wall". The Vatican prior to building the current Vatican. Hadrian would also be a good choice.
take a look at the book "Daytrips Italy" by Steinbicker. It has lots of day trips with maps and a description of what to see.
Pompeii is very long day trip from Rome. I agree with others that a trip to Ostia Antica is a better fit. Orvieto is a wonderful daytrip as well. It's a great break from the fast paced city of Rome. Other options: Tivoli, Viterbo, Anzio.
