There is a lot to do in the region of Lazio, besides visiting the Eternal City, of course. Below attractions are all within an hour drive from Villa Sonia.
Ostia Antica
Ostia Antica is a 50min drive alongside the coast from Villa Sonia. It is one the largest ancient Roman sites with excellent preservation of its ancient buildings, frescoes and mosaics.
Castelli Romani
In Roman times, the Castelli Romani provided an escape to the elite of the hot Roman summers. Nowadays, Romans still love this area in the Alban Hills, consisting of multiple small towns, to drink locally produced wine, eat porchetta and enjoy gorgeous views.
A couple of highlights:
- Ariccia – famous for porchetta
- Castel Gandolfo – former vacation destination of the pope
- Frascati – known for it’s white wine
Anzio
Located 20min from the property, Anzio is the largest city in the area. Situated at the fishing port, there are plenty of fish restaurants around the marina serving fresh seafood. Furthermore, it’s a departure point for ferries to the Pontine islands in the summertime (see below). The city has seen many historic events such as the Battle of Anzio during WWII and it used to be Emperor Nero’s holiday retreat, from which you can see the remains at the Grotte di Nerone.
Pontine Islands
From May till September, ferries are running from Anzio to Ponza, the largest of the 3 Pontine islands. There, you can tour the island, have lunch or rent a boat and visit Palmarola (the most beautiful island in the Mediterranean, according to Jacques Cousteau).
And More Within 30min
- McArthur Glen Design Outlet Castel Romano; Burberry, Versace, Nike, Levi’s, Jimmy Choo, Stone Island, Valentino, Calvin Klein and many more.
- Cinecittà World; amusement park with more than 40 attractions, including 3 rollercoasters, based on the world of cinema.
- Zoomarine; water park with a zoological garden and dolphin shows, featuring tube rides, slides and various pools.