Beach in Sicily, Italy / photo by admin

1. Ostia

Ostia is about thirty minutes from Rome by train, and is one of the most popular summer day trips for Roman citizens. Three miles of golden sand is bordered by the Paolo Toscanelli boulevard; a great place for you to stroll down, popping into the cafes and restaurants for bite to eat. The beautiful beach is divided up into public and private areas- you can access the private for a fee; these beaches are usually less crowded with better facilities. If you’re tired of the sun, check out the Roman ruins or the historic port of Ostia Antica.

2. Nettuno

Slightly further from Rome is the bay of Nettuno. Easily accessible on foot, the sea esplanade leads to modern Nettuno; whereas the older ‘Il Borgo’ part is located near the town centre. Il Borgo contains some of the Amalfi coast’s best restaurants, with a beautiful view over the port area. Live music and other activities take place over the summer on the esplanade and the marina. The best small beach is the Spiaggia le Sirene.

3. Santa Marinella

It’s just a quick train ride from the Rome Termini station, (only 45 minutes) to this picturesque beach commune. The clean Mediterranean sand and crystal waters attract many locals, so this isn’t the place to go if you’re looking for privacy and seclusion! Adding to the allure, one of Italy’s most famous seafood restaurants – L’Acqua Marina – is located only ten minutes away.

4. Sperlonga

When you need a break from the history, consider Sperlonga. Although it’s two and a half hours from Rome, the journey is definitely worth it when you see the stunning pale sandy crescent and open ocean view. The beach is well-developed, with all facilities within easy reach; and the local eateries serve everything from fish and chips to authentic Italian cuisine. Some places will even deliver food direct to your beach towel!

5. Santa Severa

With the officially-recognized cleanest waters around Rome, this beach is easy to get to from Rome by bus or train. In addition to the pristine sand, there’s a nature reserve located on a nearby headland; as well as a naturally formed cave system once used as a hiding place by slaves.

Whether you’re renting one of the Rome apartments or staying in an Amalfi coastline villa; visiting a local beach is the perfect way to finish off your summer vacation. Make sure you leave early to grab that prime spot on the sand!

Next time you are heading over to Europe, why not rent one of the apartments in Rome from Worldwide Accom.There are many within the city centre, close to the metro stops as well, meaning you can easily hop on the metro to all the attractions or even to the beach.

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Theatrum in Ostia Antica, Italy by Oliver-Bonjoch

As a result of thousands of years of silting at the mouth of the Tiber River, the shoreline has slowly moved 3 kilometers away from Ostia Antica. Originally founded back in the 7th century B.C., Ostia Antica has been known as the fourth kingdom of the Roman Empire. The ruins of Ostia Antica which can be seen today however, only date back to the 3rd and 4th centuries B.C.

The most notable and one of the best preserved structures in Ostia Antica is the Castrum which dates back to the 3rd century B.C. There are many well-preserved buildings located throughout Ostia Antica. You will find some of the finest frescoes and mosaics of the Roman Era in Ostia Antica. There is also a Temple of Jupiter in the site which has become known as the Capitolium.

Ostia Antica is most noted as having been attacked by pirates back in 68 B.C. During the sacking of Ostia Antica, the entire port area was set ablaze and two senators had been kidnapped by the pirates. As a result of this attack on the Roman Empire, Pompey the Great built an army that would seek out and destroy the pirates in less than a years’ time.

Today, Ostia Antica is one of the most popular destinations in Italy outside of Rome itself. While countless visitors make their way to the Roman monuments only, those who chose to venture out to Ostia Antica are amazed at how well-preserved the site actually is.

The post Ostia Antica – the harbour city of an ancient Rome | Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.