Tired of the typical tourist traps? Let’s embark on a three-day journey through Rome’s lesser-known archaeological wonders. This itinerary will take you beyond the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, offering a unique perspective on the Eternal City’s ancient past.
- A 3-Day Deep Dive into Ancient Rome
- Day 1: The Appian Way – Rome’s Ancient Highway
- Day 2: The Domus Aurea
- Day 3: the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica
- To Rome with Italo
To visit Rome thoroughly, you would need several weeks, and it still wouldn’t be enough to explore it all! We have previously suggested some alternative itineraries for you to explore the Capital, also focusing on areas further away from the center, such as the EUR district, or tours tailored for cinema aficionados.
A 3-Day Deep Dive into Ancient Rome
This time, however, we propose a three-day itinerary of ancient Rome, but don’t expect traditional suggestions such as the Imperial Forums or the Colosseum: we will take you to less visited but equally splendid archaeological sites! Come on, ask your boss for a Friday off, and pack your comfortable shoes: let’s go – unleash the archaeological weekend!
Day 1: The Appian Way – Rome’s Ancient Highway
The Appia Antica Park has ancient roots: it was 312 B.C. when the consul Appius Claudius gave his name to a revolutionary new road linking the city to Campania, built with large, polished stones and thus suitable for all means of transport of the time.
Begin your adventure on the legendary Appian Way, one of ancient Rome’s most important roads. This ancient thoroughfare, dating back to 312 BC, once connected Rome to the Italian peninsula. It was built by the consul Appius Claudius, who gave it his name.
This thoroughfare was ingeniously constructed with large, polished stones, making it suitable for all forms of transport of the era.
As you traverse the Appian Way, you’ll encounter a myriad of historical sites, including ancient tombs, catacombs, and villas. Don’t miss the chance to explore the stunning Roman villas, such as Villa dei Quintili and Villa di Massenzio, which offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Rome’s elite.
Today, this expansive park spans 3,500 hectares between central Rome and the Alban Hills. It is a protected area teeming with historical significance and natural beauty. Visitors can explore its many sites during spring and autumn through an array of guided tours.
The park features several access points, with the main one being the Appia Antica Service Center. Open daily from March to October (with some hourly restrictions), it offers bicycle rentals for those who wish to traverse its scenic pathways. This unique green space invites you to envision the bustling daily life along one of Ancient Rome’s most important routes!
Day 2: The Domus Aurea
Translating to “Golden House” in Latin, the Domus Aurea refers to the opulent villa constructed by Emperor Nero following the devastating fire that ravaged Rome in 64 A.D. Seizing this opportunity, Nero appropriated a vast expanse of land, much to the detriment of his fellow Romans.
After Nero’s demise, his grand villa fell into ruin, only for Trajan to erect his baths atop its remnants. This fortuitous layering has helped preserve the Domus Aurea through the centuries.
Today, visiting the Domus Aurea offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of ancient Roman elites. The restoration site is accessible via guided tours enriched with multimedia enhancements, including virtual reality experiences—an engaging way for visitors of all ages to appreciate its grandeur!
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Day 3: the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica
Sunday is the perfect day to visit the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica, one of Italy’s largest and best-preserved archaeological sites.
Originally positioned along both sea and river, Ostia was strategically significant for trade and military operations. Today, you can wander through its ancient remains, including those of its imperial ports—a chance to discover a different facet of Roman archaeology that often escapes notice. Weekends are particularly delightful for experiencing the park’s vastness; be sure to check their official website for detailed schedules.
Pro tip: if you plan your visit on Sunday, you can also visit the Decorated Houses to admire their beautiful decorations and frescoes from the imperial era, and maybe stop in Ostia for a hearty seafood lunch!
Rome Day Trip: Where to Go in a Day
Whatever you’re looking to explore, the areas around Rome offer a variety of experiences that can be enjoyed in a single day. These excursions not only complement the Roman experience, but also enrich your Italian adventure with minimal travel and maximum enjoyment.
To Rome with Italo
The Eternal City is just a stone’s throw away thanks to high-speed rail! With Italo offering numerous daily train options to and from Rome, archaeology enthusiasts can also venture out to Brescia and discover the Brixia Archaeological Park right in the city centre. Always travel in style with high-speed comfort!This itinerary promises an enriching experience filled with history and exploration beyond the conventional sights. Embrace this opportunity to uncover hidden treasures within Ancient Rome!
