In Latio, the cradle of ancient Rome, every stone seems to whisper tales from millennia past. Each year, millions of visitors flock to Rome to marvel at the grandeur of the Colosseum and the magnificence of St. Peter's Basilica. Yet, the rural areas like the Castelli Romani also captivate with their rolling hills and charming wine villages, where traces of the Etruscans can still be found. From the shimmering waters of Lake Bracciano to the picturesque coast of Gaeta, Latio's diverse landscape enchants with timeless charm.
Top 10 Highlights of Lazio
Where gladiators made history
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Colosseum
Rome, Lazio
The Colosseum, an iconic symbol of ancient Rome's grandeur, stands as a remarkable testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the Roman Empire. This colossal amphitheater, once the site of heart-stopping gladiator combats and ferocious battles with wild beasts, draws the gaze of over 7 million visitors each year.
The Power & Splendor of the Popes
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Treasures of the Vatican
Rome, Lazio
The Vatican is – in the heart of Rome – the smallest independent state in the world and is home to some of the world's most beautiful masterpieces. A visit is among the top highlights in all of Europe. Both St. Peter's Basilica with its monumental dome and the Sistine Chapel, featuring Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes, attract millions of visitors each year.
Michelangelo's celestial art
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Sistine Chapel
Rome, Lazio
The Sistine Chapel is a pinnacle of Renaissance art and a must-visit for anyone stepping into the Vatican Museums. It's famed for Michelangelo's iconic ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment. The sheer scale and artistic mastery of Michelangelo's work make it an unforgettable experience.
2,000-year-old engineering marvel
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Pantheon
Rome, Lazio
The 2000-year old Pantheon, a masterpiece of ancient architecture, stands as a monumental tribute to Roman engineering and artistry. This iconic structure was initially conceived as a temple to the 7 classical gods, and was later consecrated as a Christian Church. Walking through its doors, one is immediately struck by the vast, open space of the rotunda, topped by the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. At the dome's zenith is the oculus, a 9-meter-wide aperture that floods the interior with natural light, creating a connection between the earth and the heavens.
Time travel to the Roman Empire
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Roman Forum
Rome, Lazio
A visit to this impressive open-air museum is an absolute must for any visitor to Rome. Nestled between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills, it offers insight into the heyday of Roman civilization. Here, you can stroll through the remnants of majestic temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches that once formed the center of political and religious life.
Fantastic views from Michelangelo's dome
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St. Peter's Basilica
Rome, Lazio
St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world and the heart of the Vatican, impresses with its masterful Italian Renaissance art. The majestic dome, designed by Michelangelo, rises high above the city and offers spectacular views of Rome - a climb is therefore a must. Inside, the basilica impresses with its magnificent marble interior and artistic statues, including the moving Pietà. A highlight is the visit to the necropolis beneath St. Peter's Basilica, where the tomb of the Apostle Peter lies.
The world's most popular fountain
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Trevi Fountain
Rome, Lazio
The Trevi Fountain, a masterful baroque marvel, is not just Rome's largest but also its most breathtaking fountain. Amid the hustle and bustle of the city, it stands as a grandiose display of mythical figures and cascading waters, captivating all who come to toss a coin and embrace its legend.
Meeting spot in Rome
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Piazza Navona
Rome, Lazio
As the first rays of sun touch the cobblestones, Rome's most beloved and picturesque square awakens with its fountains casting soft shadows. By day, it transforms into a vibrant hub, buzzing with the energy of bustling cafés, street performers, and portrait artists. The original piazza was constructed atop the 30,000-seat stadium di Domiziano in 86 CE. One can still access the ruins for a ticket of €9.
Hadrian's Mausoleum
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Castel Sant'Angelo
Rome, Lazio
Castel Sant'Angelo, originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, is now a fascinating museum. It got its name from a vision of Pope Gregory I in 590 AD: the Archangel Michael appeared to him, sheathed his sword, and thus announced the end of the plague. Inside the castle, you can admire the magnificent Sala Paolina, with frescoes depicting episodes from the life of Alexander the Great.
Magnificent mosaics in Rome's Marian Church
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Santa Maria Maggiore
Rome, Lazio
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is renowned for its stunning 5th-century mosaics depicting scenes from the Old Testament. As one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas, it impresses with its baroque facade (18th century) and opulent interiors.
Spring is one of the most delightful times to visit Latio. The temperatures are pleasantly mild, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, and nature bursts into full bloom. It's the perfect season to explore historical sites and nature parks without the heat of summer.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Latio can be quite hot, with average temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, and peaks that often exceed 30°C in July and August. This is the height of tourist season, especially in Rome and along the coast. It's ideal for beach vacations, but be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is another wonderful time to visit, with mild weather and temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The harvest season brings a plethora of culinary festivals and events. Plus, the tourist crowds begin to dwindle.
Winter (December to February)
Winters in Latio are relatively mild, with average temperatures between 5°C and 10°C. Higher elevations can be cooler, but snow is rare. This is a peaceful time for sightseeing, with fewer tourists around. The Christmas season also brings festive markets and events, particularly in Rome.
Getting There
By Plane
The international Rome-Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci) is the main gateway to the region. Regular direct flights connect Rome with most European capitals and many other international cities. Rome-Ciampino Airport also serves some European destinations, mainly through low-cost airlines.
By Train
Italy's well-developed rail network connects Lazio with other parts of the country and Europe. High-speed trains like the Frecciarossa and Italo link Rome to cities such as Florence, Milan, and Naples in just a few hours. International train connections are also available from cities like Paris and Munich, often with a transfer in Milan or Turin.
Traveling in Lazio
By Train
Lazio's rail network is extensive and connects its major cities. Trenitalia's regional trains are reliable and offer regular services between cities.
The main station in Rome, Roma Termini, is the central hub from which you can easily explore the region.
Popular routes include Rome to Viterbo, Tivoli, Civitavecchia, and Latina.
High-speed trains (Frecciarossa) run from Rome to more distant destinations, with particularly delightful journeys through picturesque landscapes.
By Car
Renting a car is another excellent way to explore Lazio. When leaving Rome, follow the A1 or A24 to reach various parts of the region. Be aware that traffic in urban areas, especially in Rome, can be heavy and parking can be difficult to find. It's advisable to research parking garages or public parking spaces in advance.
By Bus
Lazio's bus network is well-developed and offers a cost-effective alternative to trains. Cotral operates most of the intercity buses, connecting Rome with many smaller towns and popular day trip destinations like the Alban Hills or the villages around Lake Bolsena. In Rome, the city ATAC buses provide extensive service.
