Lazio, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Lazio, Italy: A captivating blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culinary traditions in the heart of Italy.

Lazio, a region in central Italy, is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic Italian experiences. Home to the capital city, Rome, Lazio offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. From the iconic Colosseum to the tranquil lakes and rolling hills, there is something for everyone in this diverse region. Wander through the streets of Rome and discover world-famous sites such as the Vatican City, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum. Beyond the capital, Lazio boasts charming medieval towns like Viterbo and Tivoli. The latter is known for the stunning Villa d'Este and its magnificent gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nature lovers will be enchanted by the natural beauty of Lazio. The region features pristine beaches along the Tyrrhenian Sea, the serene waters of Lake Bolsena, and the lush landscapes of the Apennine Mountains. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lazio offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring Italy's rich biodiversity. Lazio's culinary scene is equally impressive, with traditional dishes that highlight local ingredients. Savor the flavors of Roman cuisine, including pasta carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine from the renowned vineyards of Frascati or a refreshing Aperol Spritz. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, Lazio promises an unforgettable Italian adventure. Its combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and culinary delights makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lazio.

Visit Rome's major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid large crowds.
Take a day trip to the medieval town of Viterbo for a more peaceful and authentic Italian experience.
Explore the natural beauty of Lake Bolsena and enjoy a boat ride or a swim in its clear waters.
Try the local wines from the vineyards of Frascati, especially the white wines which are renowned in the region.
Wear comfortable shoes as many of Lazio's historical sites and towns have cobblestone streets.

Top City Travel Guides in Lazio

The cities of Lazio, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Rome

Naples

Orvieto

Destinations in Lazio

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Abruzzo National Park

Via Francigena

Explore Lazio: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Lazio

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

MagicLand

Discover the thrills and magic of MagicLand, Italy's leading amusement park, where adventure and family fun come together in a spectacular setting.

4.0

Santa Severa Castle

Explore the enchanting Santa Severa Castle, a stunning coastal fortress steeped in history and breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

4.5

Mercati di Traiano Museo dei Fori Imperiali

Discover the Mercati di Traiano, an archaeological museum revealing the grandeur of ancient Rome's marketplace and its historical treasures.

4.6

Arch of Constantine

Explore the Arch of Constantine, a historic monument in Rome that celebrates Emperor Constantine's victory with intricate sculptures and rich history.

4.7

Best landmarks in Lazio

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Trevi Fountain

Experience the enchanting beauty of the Trevi Fountain, a historical landmark in Rome, where art, culture, and tradition meet in a spectacular display of Baroque architecture.

4.8

Colosseum

Discover the grandeur of the Colosseum, Rome's iconic historical landmark where ancient history comes alive amidst stunning architecture.

4.7

Pantheon

Discover the Pantheon, an architectural masterpiece in Rome showcasing ancient Roman engineering and rich historical significance, a must-visit for every traveler.

4.8

Piazza Navona

Discover the enchanting beauty of Piazza Navona, Rome's iconic Baroque plaza filled with art, history, and vibrant local culture.

4.7

Best restaurants in Lazio

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Iari The Vino

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Iari The Vino in Rome - home to exquisite ravioli and warm hospitality.

4.6

Taverna dei migliori

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Taverna dei Migliori in Rome—where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.6

Ce Stamo A Pensà

Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine at Ce Stamo A Pensà in Rome—where every dish tells a story.

4.6

La Forchetta d´Oro

Experience authentic Roman flavors at La Forchetta d'Oro, where traditional Italian cuisine meets warm hospitality in the heart of Rome.

4.1

Best bars in Lazio

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Bar San Calisto | Roma

Experience the authentic Roman café culture at Bar San Calisto, a beloved local bar in the heart of Trastevere, perfect for tourists and locals alike.

4.6

FRENI E FRIZIONI

Discover Freni e Frizioni, a vibrant cocktail bar in Rome, where innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere create an unforgettable experience.

4.2

Ristorante Bar del Fico

Experience the essence of Rome at Ristorante Bar del Fico, where delicious Italian cuisine meets vibrant cocktails in a charming atmosphere.

3.9

Salotto42

Experience the vibrant ambiance of Salotto42, a cocktail bar and brunch restaurant in the heart of Rome, blending exquisite drinks and delightful cuisine.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Lazio

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Vinile

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Vinile, Rome's premier cocktail bar featuring live music, delicious food, and a lively disco atmosphere.

4.0

Ice Club Roma

Experience the frosty nightlife of Ice Club Roma, where cocktails and ice converge for an unforgettable evening in the heart of the Eternal City.

4.3

Nice

Discover the pulse of Rome's nightlife at Nice Disco Club, where vibrant music and electrifying energy create unforgettable experiences.

3.4

Goa Club

Unleash your inner party animal at Goa Club, Rome's premier disco club, where vibrant music and electrifying atmosphere await.

4.0

Best shops in Lazio

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Designer Outlet Castelromano McArthurGlen

Discover unbeatable deals and a delightful shopping experience at Designer Outlet Castelromano, your gateway to luxury brands at affordable prices.

4.4

Valmontone Outlet

Discover unbeatable deals at Valmontone Outlet, the premier shopping destination near Rome with a diverse range of brands and delightful dining options.

4.3

RINASCENTE Rome Via del Tritone

Explore RINASCENTE Rome, the ultimate shopping destination offering luxury brands and local treasures in the heart of the Eternal City.

4.4

Galleria Alberto Sordi

Explore Galleria Alberto Sordi, Rome's iconic shopping mall blending luxury, culture, and Italian charm in an architecturally stunning setting.

4.3

Explore Lazio on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Lazio, mapped for you.

Lazio Essentials

Lazio is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The primary entry point by air is Rome's Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Fiumicino), which handles both international and domestic flights. Ciampino Airport also serves low-cost airlines. By rail, Rome Termini is a major hub with connections to other cities in Italy and Europe. For those driving, Lazio is accessible via major highways such as the A1 (Autostrada del Sole) and the A12.
Public transportation in Lazio is extensive and efficient. The ATAC system covers Rome with buses, trams, and metro lines. Trenitalia operates regional trains connecting towns and cities within Lazio. Rental cars are widely available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are also readily available. For a unique experience, consider renting a Vespa to navigate the streets like a local.
Italy uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in cities and towns. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Lazio is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded tourist spots such as Rome's historic center and public transport. Be cautious in areas like Termini Station and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings and use a money belt if possible.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, medical services, and fire departments. Hospitals and clinics are available throughout Lazio, with several major medical facilities in Rome. Pharmacies (Farmacie) are widespread and can provide basic medical supplies and advice. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress stylishly and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'buongiorno' (good morning) or 'buonasera' (good evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don't ask for ketchup or other condiments not traditionally used in Italian cuisine.
To experience Lazio like a local, visit the lesser-known towns such as Tivoli, known for Villa d'Este and Hadrian's Villa. Engage with locals in markets and trattorias to learn about their way of life. Don't miss the Etruscan ruins in Tarquinia and Cerveteri. For a unique experience, attend a local festival or sagra, where you can enjoy traditional food, music, and culture.

When is the best time to visit Lazio?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Lazio

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Lazio. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-DER-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pehr fah-VOH-reh/PRAY-goh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [GRAHT-see-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusa
  [SKOO-zah]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [KOH-meh stah-ee]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [BEH-neh. eh too?]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [PAR-lee een-GLEH-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [nohn kah-PEE-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vohr-RAY veh-DEH-reh eel meh-NOO, pehr fah-VOH-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [nohn MAHN-joh KAR-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-LOO-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-RAY pah-GAH-reh, pehr fah-VOH-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-YOO-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vy VEE-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [KYAH-mah lah poh-LEE-tsyah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [KYAH-mah oon doh-TTOH-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee SOH-noh PEHR-soh]
- I'm illSono malato
  [SOH-noh mah-LAH-toh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-RAY kom-PRAH-reh...]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh SOH-loh gwahr-DAHN-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [KWAN-toh KOH-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo costoso
  [eh TROH-poh koh-STOH-soh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoy ahb-BAH-sah-reh eel PRET-soh]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh OH-reh SOH-noh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh LOO-nah]
- Half past (10)Dieci e mezzo
  [DEE-eh-chee eh MEH-tsoh]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-TEE-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-REE-joh]
- EveningSera
  [SEH-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [YEH-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [OH-gee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-MAH-nee]
- 1Uno
  [OO-noh]
- 2Due
  [DOO-eh]
- 3Tre
  [TREH]
- 4Quattro
  [KWAHT-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [CHEEN-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [SAY]
- 7Sette
  [SET-teh]
- 8Otto
  [OHT-toh]
- 9Nove
  [NOH-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [DEE-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dove si trova...?
  [DOH-veh see TROH-vah...?]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-DEE-reet-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoy mohs-TRAR-mee (SOOL-lah MAH-pah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [KWAN-doh PAH-sah eel PROS-si-mo (OW-toh-boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ...)
  [oon bee-LYEHT-toh (pehr ...)]

History of Lazio

Lazio, known in ancient times as Latium, is the region where the city of Rome was founded in 753 BC. According to Roman mythology, Romulus and Remus, the twin sons of Mars and Rhea Silvia, were the legendary founders of Rome. This event marked the beginning of Roman civilization, which would eventually dominate the Mediterranean world.
Before the rise of Rome, the region of Lazio was inhabited by the Etruscans, an advanced civilization known for their art, architecture, and engineering. The Etruscans established several significant settlements in Lazio, including the ancient cities of Tarquinia and Cerveteri, which are renowned for their elaborate necropolises and tomb paintings.
During the Roman Republic (509-27 BC), Lazio was the heartland of Roman political, military, and cultural life. The region saw the construction of significant infrastructures such as the Via Appia, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum. Lazio played a crucial role in the expansion of Roman influence throughout the Italian peninsula and beyond.
The transition from Republic to Empire saw Lazio, particularly Rome, flourish as the epicenter of the Roman Empire. Emperors like Augustus, Trajan, and Hadrian commissioned the construction of monumental buildings, aqueducts, and roads that symbolized Rome's power and architectural prowess. The Pantheon and the Baths of Caracalla are enduring legacies of this era.
Lazio was pivotal in the spread of Christianity. In 313 AD, Emperor Constantine issued the Edict of Milan, legalizing Christian worship. Rome became a center for Christian pilgrimage, with significant sites such as St. Peter's Basilica and the catacombs. The Lateran Palace became the official residence of the Popes, cementing Rome's status as the heart of Christendom.
During the Middle Ages, Lazio experienced significant political and social changes. The fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD led to the rise of various kingdoms and the Papal States. Rome and its surrounding areas became central to the power struggles between the Papacy and the Holy Roman Empire. Iconic structures like Castel Sant'Angelo and the medieval walls of Viterbo are remnants from this tumultuous period.
Lazio, especially Rome, was a focal point during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The region saw an explosion of artistic and architectural achievements. Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini left their marks on the city with masterpieces such as the Sistine Chapel ceiling, the frescoes of the Vatican, and the ornate fountains of Piazza Navona. The grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica epitomizes this era’s artistic zenith.
The 19th century brought significant political changes to Lazio. The region played a key role in the Risorgimento, the movement for Italian unification. Rome was declared the capital of the newly unified Italy in 1871, marking the end of papal temporal power and the beginning of Italy as a modern nation-state. This period saw the development of new infrastructures and institutions in the city.
In the 20th and 21st centuries, Lazio has continued to be a region of great cultural and political importance. Rome, as the capital city, hosted significant events such as the signing of the Treaty of Rome in 1957, which established the European Economic Community. Today, Lazio is a vibrant region that blends its rich historical heritage with modern advancements, attracting millions of tourists annually.