Hi all, So, we will have seen the top sights in Rome and have left the last vacation day open. After the probably hectic pace of the last 2 weeks, I am looking for a day trip (we have early flight home next AM) to the countryside - really relaxing and low key - or a beach (early June). Would prefer 1 hr travel time out. Any ideas? Ron?
Thanks much guys! You have all been a tremendous resource.
Posted by
San Jose, CA
1994 posts
Orvieto is about an hour north of from Rome by train. It's a lovely ancient hill town with one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Italy (IMO), and is in a pretty area with great views from the old town. There are also Etruscan ruins, and it's known for its wine, I believe... although I didn't explore those facets of the area. The train drops you off across the street from a funicular that takes you uphill to the old town. From there you can walk (uphill) or take a short local bus ride to the center of town. I was there in winter and it was very quiet; I'm not sure about summer crowds. However, it's a little out of the way, so I'd guess it wouldn't be as crowded as many other hill towns.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
You mean this duomo in Orvieto? :-) Orvieto is wonderful. We stayed there for two nights a year ago and highly recommend seeing it. Here are some of the photos I took, in case you're interested. Also, be sure to check out Ron in Rome's advice on how to do Orvieto as a daytrip from Rome.
Posted by
Lake Forest, CA, USA
1633 posts
Hands down, Orvieto! You will love this hilltown. The Duomo has a gold mosaic facade that shimmers in the sunlight and an interior chapel with frescoes painted by Signorelli which is supposed to be his best work. Just walking the quaint streets and passing by cute archways and lovely doorways is fun in itself. Here's a gem of a restaurant that has a lovely outdoor terrace to dine in. Lots of locals which tells you it's top notch with very reasonable prices. Re Artu' on Via Loggia dei Mercanti, 14, 05018 Orvieto Terni, Italy Phone number is +39 0763 393438
This restaurant is hidden but well worth finding. ? Have a fun last day in Italy! .
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15798 posts
Villa Adriana and Tivoli
Posted by
OP
Marietta
22 posts
Sounds like a great day trip - thanks!
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
Don't discount the option of staying in Rome with "nothing to see." One of my favorite things to do in Rome is just walk around the center, stopping in any churches I pass, sitting in caffes, comparing gelaterie... Rick Steves always emphasizes how exhausting Rome is, but I find it just the opposite-if you do it right.
Posted by
Alta Loma, CA, USA
1446 posts
Mark, I also suggest Orvieto as a great day trip from Rome. It takes approx 90 minutes to get to Orvieto from Rome and it's a really nice town. We spent a day there and wished we had stayed longer. There are a variety of things to do there but my favorite is just to wander the back streets and enjoy the slower pace. Do not miss seeing the facade of the Duomo lit by the sun; it's beautiful. I also suggest the underground tour (which lasts about an hour); it was extremely interesting. You can also visit St. Patrick's Well or ascend to the top of Torre del Moro for the fantastic views.