Lazio
Vast tracts of countryside, ancient Roman palaces and medieval hilltop towns await in Lazio. The region borders the Tyrrhenian Sea and is filled with historic gems as well assnow-capped mountains, forests and coastal resorts.
Lazio was the cradle of the Roman Empire. It all started in Rome, the Eternal City. Rome is rich with a mixture of architectural styles, including some of the most famous buildings in the world. See the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Castel Sant'Angelo and the remains of temples, arches and basilicas of the Roman Forum. Go to St. Peter's Square and the Vatican, the heart of the Catholic world.
If you are interested in Roman history, visit ancient sites elsewhere in Lazio. Tour Hadrian's Villa in Tivoli, the summer retreat of the Emperor Hadrian. Walk through the remains of Ostia Antica, which was the harbor city of ancient Rome.
Before the Romans, Lazio was populated by Etruscans. Vestiges of their civilization survive in the region. See the Necropolis of Monterozzi in Tarquinia and the ancient site of an Etruscan city at the Vulci Archaeological Nature Park.
Diverse landscapes make Lazio a wonderful destination for lovers of the outdoors. Hike through the forest, around wetlands and by the coastal lakes of the National Park of Circeo. Go wildlife spotting in the Regional Park of the Castelli Romani. This swathe of protected land also encompasses ancient towns, archeological ruins and medieval castles.
Relax at the beach resorts and seaside towns of Lazio's long coastline, including Sperlonga and Gaeta. During the winter, head to the mountains for the ski resorts of Monte Livata and Campo Staffi.
Reach Lazio by flying into either of the two main airports in Rome. Travel to the region’s ancient sites and coastal and ski resorts by using local bus and train services, or explore the region at your own pace with a rented car.