Background

Circeo National Park: A Coastal Haven of Myth and Nature

Explore Italy's Circeo National Park: where myth meets nature on the Tyrrhenian coast. Hike, birdwatch, and discover ancient legends.

4.6

Circeo National Park, established in 1934, protects a diverse coastal landscape south of Rome, encompassing mountains, forests, wetlands, and beaches tied to the legend of Circe, the enchantress from Homer's Odyssey. It's a haven for hikers, birdwatchers, and those seeking natural beauty and historical intrigue.

A brief summary to Parco Nazionale del Circeo

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the park's visitor center in Sabaudia for trail maps and information about the park's ecosystems and history.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially at the coastal lakes, to spot various aquatic species and possibly pink flamingos.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as trails can be rocky and uneven, especially on the Circeo Promontory.
  • Pack water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking, as facilities within the park may be limited.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions can change rapidly, especially on the coast and higher elevations.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Rome, take a Trenitalia train to Monte San Biagio-Terracina Mare station. From there, a COTRAL bus will take you to Sabaudia. From Sabaudia, local buses connect to various points within the park. Bus tickets cost around €3. Check COTRAL's website for the most up-to-date schedules.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Latina station, a taxi or ride-share to the Parco Nazionale del Circeo will cost approximately €15-€25 and take about 36 minutes. Prices may vary depending on the time of day and the specific service.

  • Driving

    From Rome, take the SS148 (Via Pontina) south towards Latina. Exit at Sabaudia or San Felice Circeo, depending on your desired destination within the park. Parking is available in Sabaudia and San Felice Circeo, with hourly rates around €1. Weekly parking passes are available for €30. Be aware that parking near popular trailheads can be limited, especially during peak season.

Unlock the Best of Parco Nazionale del Circeo

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Parco Nazionale del Circeo

Circeo National Park, one of Italy's oldest national parks, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and mythological history. Established in 1934, the park stretches along the Tyrrhenian coast between Anzio and Terracina, about 100 km south of Rome. The park's diverse landscape includes the Circeo Promontory (Mount Circeo), coastal dunes, a 'selva' forest, wetlands with four coastal lakes, and the island of Zannone. The park's name derives from the enchantress Circe in Homer's Odyssey, who, according to legend, lived in this area and bewitched Ulysses. The park encompasses approximately 85 square kilometers and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and cycling. The park's diverse ecosystems host a wide array of flora and fauna, including rare species. The Circeo Promontory, reaching 541 meters, dominates the landscape and offers hiking trails with panoramic views. The 'Selva di Circe' forest, a remnant of the ancient Pontine Forest, provides a unique humid environment. The coastal lakes—Fogliano, Monaci, Caprolace, and Paola (Sabaudia)—are important habitats for migrating birds, including flamingos. The island of Zannone, part of the Pontine archipelago, offers further hiking opportunities and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the park's natural trails, visit the visitor center in Sabaudia, and discover archaeological sites, including the ruins of a Roman villa. The park provides a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in history and mythology.

Popular Experiences near Parco Nazionale del Circeo

Popular Hotels near Parco Nazionale del Circeo

Select Currency