Timeless Italy Tour from Rome to Ostia Antica, Ceri, Bracciano Castle

highlights

• Journey through the ages and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Italy’s breathtaking landscapes
• Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Romans as you explore Ostia Antica, a remarkably preserved Roman port city
• Experience the medieval charm of Ceri, a clifftop hamlet with Etruscan roots and timeless traditions.
• Discover Bracciano Castle, a medieval fortress turned Renaissance residential castle
• Admire the stunning views of Lake Bracciano from the top of Bracciano Castle
• Journey through history, from Ancient Rome to the Renaissance, all in one unforgettable day.
• Travel in comfort and style in a private deluxe vehicle and professional English-speaking driver at your service
• All RomeCabs tours by car are private just for you and your party for optimal tour enjoyment, comfort, and privacy
• This tour does NOT include a Tour Guide, you will Self Tour away from the vehicle
• * Please read ALL the information on the tour page before booking. Tour Requests are confirmed based on availability

itinerary

• Ostia Antica (2 hours)
• Lunch in the medieval village of Ceri
• Visit Bracciano Castle ( approx 1.5 hours)

description

This private day tour from Rome with RomeCabs offers a unique opportunity to experience Timeless Italy, traveling through the eras of Ancient Rome, the Medieval Age, and the Renaissance.  Italy’s history is not confined to the pages of books—it’s a living experience that comes to life as you walk through an ancient Roman city, medieval villages, and majestic castles. For travelers seeking unforgettable day tours from Rome, away from crowded attractions, this journey offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Italy's rich history spanning millennia

Begin your journey with a stop in Ostia Antica, the ancient Roman port city that offers a glimpse into the daily life of a once-thriving Roman Empire. History isn’t just seen here—it’s felt as you stand in the very places that shaped Rome’s enduring legacy.

Next, explore the charm of Ceri, a captivating medieval hilltop village rooted in ancient history. Steeped in character and deeply connected to the Etruscans, the enigmatic and advanced pre-Roman civilization, Ceri’s cobblestone streets and tranquil atmosphere transport you to a world shaped by centuries of culture and tradition.

Experience the charm of Bracciano, a picturesque medieval town overlooking the volcanic crater Lake Bracciano.  Dominating its skyline is the majestic Bracciano Castle (Castello Orsini-Odescalchi), a formidable medieval fortress expanded into a residential castle, blending Renaissance military architecture with the opulence of frescoed halls and elegant design.

With the comfort and convenience of a private tour by RomeCabs, complete with door-to-door service from your hotel or accommodation in Rome, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through Italy’s living history.

•  This Timeless Italy Tour is NOT Offered on MONDAYS as Ostia Antica is CLOSED on Mondays.

TIMELESS ITALY TOUR PRICE LIST:

• For Up to 2 Persons from Rome Hotel:  480 EUROS
• For Up to 4 Persons from Rome Hotel:  520 EUROS
• For up to 6 Persons from Rome Hotel:  570 EUROS
• For up to 8 Persons from Rome Hotel:  600 EUROS

NOTE: If using AOL, NETSCAPE, YAHOO, or HOTMAIL - check your Spam Folder regularly as these email providers have issues with email delivery. Otherwise, please use GMAIL for fewer issues.

* You may also do a QUICK PRICE CHECK using the Price Check & Booking Form on the Right Side of this page.  Once you receive the PRICE QUOTE based on the information you input, you may proceed to SUBMIT your Tour Request.

*** Dates on the Booking Form Calendar that are NOT Selectable, are NOT AVAILABLE.

OSTIA ANTICA: Walk in the Footsteps of Ancient Romans

Your Timeless Italy tour begins with a 2-hour visit to Ostia Antica, a fascinating ancient Roman city that was once the gateway to Rome, strategically located at the mouth of the Tiber River in ancient times. Its name, derived from the Latin word ostium (meaning "mouth"), reflects its role as a vital port through which goods, people, and ideas flowed from across the Mediterranean to the heart of the Roman Empire.

Often called "Rome’s Pompeii" for its remarkably preserved ruins, Ostia Antica offers a rare opportunity to walk through an ancient Roman city almost as it once stood. As you stroll its stone-paved streets, you can imagine the vibrant daily life of merchants trading wares and residents bustling between warehouses, markets, and homes.

Far more than just a port, Ostia Antica was a thriving Roman microcosm, embodying the empire’s ingenuity and complexity. Its well-preserved mosaics, buildings, and public spaces transport visitors to a time and see what an ancient Roman city was like nearly 2,000 years ago.

This extraordinary site is a living connection to the grandeur and legacy of Ancient Rome, making it an unforgettable highlight of the Timeless Italy Tour. Wandering through Ostia Antica is like stepping into history, where the echoes of the past still resonate today.

CERI: A Hidden Medieval Village

Next, your journey takes you to Ceri, a picturesque hilltop village that transports you back in time. While its rustic charm transports visitors to the Medieval era, Ceri’s history stretches back even further to its ancient Etruscan roots, a civilization that flourished in central Italy long before the rise of Rome.

The Etruscans, renowned for their advanced urban planning and artistry, first settled in the area, taking advantage of its natural defenses and fertile surroundings.   As the Roman Empire absorbed Etruscan territories, Ceri became a Roman settlement, benefiting from the infrastructure and cultural exchanges of the era. However, it wasn’t until the Middle Ages that Ceri took on its current form.

The village was fortified and transformed into a stronghold, complete with narrow cobblestone streets, sturdy fortified crenelated walls, and a village layout that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Today, Ceri retains its authentic medieval appearance, with stone houses and a serene atmosphere that invites visitors to step back in time. 

At the heart of the village stands the Santuario della Madonna di Ceri, a historic church revered for its spiritual significance and beautifully preserved medieval frescoes of biblical narratives, saints, kitchen scenes, battling devils, and a chimera. The sanctuary, built atop earlier structures, embodies Ceri’s layered history, blending its Etruscan, Roman, and medieval heritage.

Ceri is also an ideal place to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine for lunch, with local family-owned trattorias serving delightful traditional dishes.

BRACCIANO CASTLE: A Renaissance Masterpiece

The final stop on this Timeless Italy tour is the majestic Bracciano Castle, perched above the tranquil Lake Bracciano. This iconic castle, once the residence of powerful noble families, is steeped in a history marked by power struggles, intrigue, and romance.

Originally expanded from the medieval Rocca di Vico, the castle underwent a remarkable transformation beginning in 1470 under the guidance of the Orsini family. Over the years, it evolved into a striking example of Renaissance military architecture, skillfully combining its imposing medieval defensive features with the refinement and elegance of a Renaissance residence.

Stepping inside, visitors are immediately captivated by the castle’s artistic grandeur. Richly frescoed friezes, intricate ceilings, and exquisite paintings adorn its many grand halls,  a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Renaissance period.

In addition to its artistic treasures, the castle offers a glimpse into the lives of its noble inhabitants through its original furnishings from both the Renaissance and the 19th century. As you wander through its grand halls, adorned with period artifacts and treasures, the layers of history come alive, resonating through every corner of its walls.

For those seeking breathtaking views, Bracciano Castle’s battlements provide an unparalleled vantage point. From here, you can take in the serene Lake Bracciano and the rolling countryside, a picturesque panorama that perfectly encapsulates the timeless charm of this region.

Bracciano Castle is not only an architectural marvel but also a testament to centuries of Italy’s architectural, cultural, and historical evolution. Its unique blend of medieval strength and Renaissance opulence makes it a highlight of any journey through Timeless Italy, offering visitors a truly unforgettable experience.

After your visit to Bracciano, you will reunite with your driver and begin the journey back to Rome, aiming to arrive at your hotel at around 5 PM. The day's experiences will leave you with vivid memories of the stunning sights you've encountered. From the ancient Roman streets of Ostia Antica to the timeless charm of Ceri and the majestic presence of Bracciano Castle, you've traveled through centuries of Italy's remarkable history on this memorable day trip from Rome.

Upon your arrival in Rome, your driver will take you directly to your hotel or accommodation.

Important Information

PLEASE READ THE INFORMATION BELOW AND ACCEPT THE   TERMS OF SERVICE  AND PRIVACY POLICY BEFORE BOOKING.


This Timeless Italy day tour from Rome is NOT offered on Mondays Ostia Antica is CLOSED on Mondays.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

Payment can be made in EUROS directly to your driver on the Date of Tour, or prepaid in advance via PayPal or Credit Card online upon request. PayPal processes all online credit card payments for safety and security.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations can be made at least 7 days in advance (and a REDUCED NET RATE Refund for prepaid services) so we can recuperate the loss and your reserved driver does not lose work for that day.

Cancellations must be made via E-Mail and confirmed by our office.  We do not accept cancellations by telephone, text message, or 3rd party.

** Cancelations for PREPAID SERVICES will be refunded the REDUCED Net Rate we receive from your prepayment.  Net Rate: actual service price minus PayPal/Credit Card fees retained by PayPal/Credit Card as they do not reimburse us the fees they retain from your payment.

ADMISSION TICKETS:

OSTIA ANTICA: Admission Tickets are currently 18 Euros per person. Tickets can be purchased at the site before entering. Ticket prices may go up in price when exhibitions are held inside the site.

BRACCIANO CASTLE: Admission Tickets are currently approximately 10 Euros Per person to be purchased on-site on arrival.

* Admission Ticket prices are subject to change with notice.

*  Please note that on rare occasions Bracciano Castle may unexpectedly close for private events or internal reasons. If it's closed upon your arrival, your driver can take you to explore alternative lakeside villages like Trevignano or Anguillara after your visit to the village of Bracciano.

LUNCH IN CERI

Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant in Ceri (there are only 2 family-owned restaurants in Ceri). Ceri is famous for local home-cooked cuisine at reasonable prices that draw Italians and visitors from all over the region. There are no sandwiches or sliced ​​pizza anywhere in the hamlet or its environs.

YOUR PRIVATE DRIVER

This chauffeur-driven tour includes an English-speaking Private Driver who is not a Licensed Tour Guide.

Italy's laws prohibit Drivers from guiding or accompanying guests Your driver will be obliged to remain with the vehicle while you visit sites. For this reason, we recommend private licensed tours, sites, and monuments if you require in-depth information.

Meeting Point at ROME HOTEL / ACCOMMODATION:

Your driver will meet you inside the lobby of your hotel or in areas permitted by hotels.

For Apartments or B&Bs without a lobby, your driver will meet you outside the main entrance of your Pick Up Address.

* If your hotel or accommodation is on a street or in an area restricted to vehicle traffic, your driver will park as close as lawfully possible, will meet you on foot at your Address, and accompany you to your parked vehicle.

FAQ about Timeless Italy Day Tour from Rome

Q1: What makes the "Timeless Italy" tour one of the best day tours from Rome?

A1:  The Timeless Italy Tour is unmatched in offering a journey through centuries of Italian history, from the grandeur of Ancient Rome at Ostia Antica to the medieval charm of Ceri, and the Renaissance elegance of Bracciano Castle.

Q2: Why should I choose a private Rome countryside tour with RomeCabs?

A2: Choosing a private Rome countryside tour with RomeCabs ensures you experience Italy in style and comfort. With door-to-door service, various exciting itineraries, and professional drivers, you’ll avoid the stress of public transportation and crowded group tours. The Timeless Italy Tour provides exclusive access to some of the most captivating destinations near Rome, making it a perfect option for those who value convenience, privacy, and an unforgettable travel experience.

Q3: How far are Ostia Antica, Ceri, and Bracciano from Rome?

A3:  Each destination on the Timeless Italy Tour is conveniently located within an hour or two from Rome by car, making it an ideal choice for a memorable day trip. Ostia Antica is approximately 30 minutes from the city, offering an easy and fascinating start to your journey. From there, the medieval village of Ceri is about 45 minutes to an hour away, providing a peaceful drive through scenic countryside.

Continuing on, Bracciano, with its iconic castle overlooking Lake Bracciano, is approximately 30 minutes from Ceri and about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Rome, which translates to roughly an hour by car. This well-planned route allows you to experience the rich history and charm of these unique destinations without the hassle of long travel times, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable day trip from Rome.

Q4: What are the must-see sites in Ostia Antica on a day trip from Rome?

A4:  Ostia Antica is one of the most fascinating ancient Roman cities, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the Roman Empire through its remarkably preserved ruins. Key highlights to explore during this day trip from Rome include:

• The Decumanus Maximus: The main street of Ostia Antica, lined with ruins of shops, homes, and public buildings, gives visitors the feeling of stepping back in time.
• The Baths of Neptune: Renowned for their stunning black-and-white mosaics depicting Neptune and sea creatures, these baths showcase the artistry and ingenuity of Roman bathhouses.
• The Theater: A beautifully preserved open-air Roman theater that could seat thousands of spectators. It remains a centerpiece of the site and is still used for events today.
• Piazzale delle Corporazioni: Adjacent to the theater, this square was a bustling commercial hub, lined with mosaics representing various trade guilds and businesses that once operated in Ostia’s thriving port.
• The Capitolium: A large temple dedicated to the Capitoline Triad—Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva—symbolizing the spiritual and political heart of the city.
• The Forum: The political and religious center of Ostia Antica, featuring remnants of temples, administrative buildings, and market areas.
• The Thermopolium: An ancient Roman tavern where visitors can still see a marble counter and frescoes, providing a unique look into the dining culture of ancient Rome.
• Casa di Diana: Across from the Thermopolium, Casa di Diana (House of Diana) is one of the best-preserved examples of Roman apartments.

Q5: What is there to see and do in Ceri on this Timeless Italy day tour from Rome?

A5. Ceri is a captivating medieval hilltop village that feels frozen in time. The ancient main "road" leading from its central square to the outside world is carved directly into the rock, wide enough for just one vehicle at a time. To manage traffic, a stoplight is positioned at both the top and bottom, allowing vehicles to pass in one direction at a time.

The charming borgo, with its historic buildings, has become a favorite destination for Italians who flock here for lunch and dinner. It's a perfect stop for a delicious meal in the heart of the Italian countryside, offering authentic flavors and a peaceful, picturesque atmosphere.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve dedicated an informative blog: Ceri: Must-See Charming Italian Medieval Hamlet Frozen in Time, filled with fascinating details about this hidden gem. We recommend reading it before your trip to fully appreciate the history and charm of this unforgettable village.

Q6: What is there to see inside Bracciano Castle?

A6: Bracciano Castle (Castello Orsini-Odescalchi) is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and art, offering a fascinating journey through centuries of Italian heritage.

For a detailed exploration of the castle’s interior, we’ve created a comprehensive blog: How to Visit Bracciano Castle (Castello Orsini-Odescalchi). This guide complements our Rome countryside tours and provides an in-depth walkthrough of the castle’s most intriguing spaces, making it an invaluable resource for anyone planning to visit Bracciano Castle.

• Powerful Renaissance Women of Bracciano Castle: Bartolomea Orsini, Felice delle Rovere, Isabella de Medici
  
•  Bracciano Castle: Isabella de Medici and Paolo Giordano Orsini - love, betrayal, murder, legends

Q7: What should I wear or bring for this day trip from Rome?

A7: For this day trip from Rome, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring ancient ruins, cobblestone streets, and castle stairways. A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, especially during the warmer months, to keep you protected while enjoying outdoor sites like Ostia Antica and Lake Bracciano.

Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and consider packing a light jacket or scarf if visiting during cooler months or in case of unpredictable weather. A camera or smartphone is a must to capture stunning views and historical landmarks, and if you plan to visit any religious sites in Ceri, modest attire may be required.

Q8: Is this tour suitable for families or couples?

A8: Yes, the Timeless Italy Tour is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups of friends of up to 7 or 8 looking for private and stress-free day tours from Rome to the countryside.  Families will appreciate the engaging exploration of Ostia Antica, where history comes alive through ancient Roman ruins, while couples can enjoy the romantic charm of Ceri and Bracciano, medieval villages steeped in tranquility.  The grandeur of Bracciano Castle offers a fascinating journey through Italy’s architectural and cultural evolution. This well-rounded itinerary ensures there’s something special for every traveler to enjoy.

Q9: Is the Timeless Italy tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?

A9: The Timeless Italy Tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges due to the nature of the sites included. Ostia Antica involves extensive walking over uneven terrain, and exploring Bracciano Castle requires navigating multiple stairways and steep areas, and are not wheelchair accessible. Please evaluate your physical ability and stamina before booking this tour.

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