Castelli Romani

Just a short journey from the bustling streets of Rome, the Castelli Romani region offers a peaceful escape into the forested hills of Lazio. This scenic area includes 17 charming towns, historic villas, and volcanic lakes, making it a beloved destination for day trips, local wines, and timeless culture—all nestled in the rolling Alban Hills.

Recommended For

History Lovers: Discover Roman ruins, noble palaces, and centuries-old festivals.

Wine Enthusiasts: Sip world-renowned vintages from Frascati and Lanuvio.

Romantic Travelers: Wander cobbled streets, enjoy lakeside views, and indulge in local cuisine.

What to Expect

Location: South of Rome, between Lakes Albano and Nemi
Size: About 50 square miles of countryside and hills
Number of Towns: 17, each with its own history, landscape, and local traditions
Atmosphere: Peaceful, traditional, and authentically Italian

Top Towns to Explore

Castel Gandolfo: Former papal retreat, now home to the Apostolic Palace Museum
Ariccia: Home to the Parco Regionale dei Castelli Romani and the Church of Assunta
Frascati: Famous for white wine production dating back to the 5th century B.C.
Nemi: Known for its volcanic lake, sweet strawberries, and Castello Ruspoli
Genzano: Rich in Roman history, site of the Infiorata flower festival in June
Lanuvio: Admire Carlo Fontana’s Fountain of the Scogli and visit wineries in a former jail
Rocca Priora: See the symbolic Baronial Palace and panoramic hilltop views

Historical & Cultural Highlights

Palazzo Apostolico: Castel Gandolfo’s papal palace, now open to the public
Church of Assunta: 17th-century Ariccia church with frescos by Ambrogio Borgognone
Villa of the Antonini: Remains of the home of the last Roman emperor in Genzano
Castello Ruspoli: A well-preserved 16th-century noble castle in Nemi
Infiorata Festival: A vibrant floral celebration held annually in Genzano

Wine & Culinary Delights

Frascati White Wine: Crisp and iconic, traditionally paired with Roman meals
Lanuvio Wines: Crafted from grapes grown in volcanic soil, rich in local history
Converted Jail Winery: Visit Lanuvio’s repurposed town jail turned wine cellar
Strawberries from Nemi: Famous across the region for their flavor and freshness

Visitor Tips

Getting There: Easily accessible by train or car from Rome—perfect for a day trip
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and lively local events
Local Events: Don’t miss festivals like Infiorata or summer village celebrations
Swimming: Lake Nemi’s waters are beautiful, but swimming is prohibited

Contact & Map

Castelli Romani
Region of Lazio, Italy – Southeast of Rome
italia.it – Castelli Romani