"Tra il dire e il fare c'è di mezzo il mare." This famous Italian proverb is used to describe the difference between what people say and what they actually do. Here's how it works: suppose you want to do something very difficult—pass an Italian exam, for example. So you start studying, reading, and listening. But "tra il dire e il fare c'è di mezzo il mare": you'll have to work very hard to succeed.
A first step might be coming to Dilit, for example! But that's not really the point. Let me try again:
"Sono in un mare di guai!" This expression is used when a disaster has happened and you're right in the middle of it, with no idea how to get out.
Okay, one last one:
"Siamo ancora in alto mare!" Perfect for when you have a work project to finish, but you haven't even started and the deadline is tomorrow!
What do all these expressions have in common? Two things: they are used all the time by Italians… and they all rely on the metaphor of the sea. For us, the sea is serious business.
And if you find yourself in Italy during the summer, you absolutely have to go to the beach! Especially if you're in Rome—you can't miss the opportunities offered by the areas surrounding the capital.
Ready? Put on your best swimsuit and let's go.
Ostia is the simplest choice, perfect if you're vacationing in Rome and want some sea air without traveling far.
From central Rome, you can reach it on a historic local train departing from Porta San Paolo/Piramide and stopping at Lido Centro, Stella Polare, and Castel Fusano.
Ostia offers plenty of options: you can spend a classic beach day at one of the many beach clubs, many of which also serve excellent spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), or stroll along the seafront promenade to the Pier.
If you prefer a more authentic atmosphere, continue toward Castel Fusano or the Cancelli area, where the beach is wider and largely free-access.
And there's more: at Ostia Antica you can wander among the magnificent ruins of a city frozen in time. Truly atmospheric.
Anzio is one of the best destinations for anyone looking for a complete day trip: sea, a historic town center, and a charming harbor. It has everything, and getting there is easy.
Simply walk a few minutes from Dilit toward Termini Station and hop on one of the many regional trains heading to this lively oasis of relaxation.
Once there, you can stroll along the harbor, visit Nero's Caves (Grotte di Nerone), or continue on to Nettuno, with its unique medieval old town.
Anzio is also historically significant: it was here that the Allied landings took place during the Second World War.
Santa Marinella is another convenient destination, perfect for a day by the sea.
The regional train from Rome Termini takes just over an hour, with frequent connections to Santa Marinella station. If you prefer to stop earlier, Maccarese and Fregene are also good options for a seaside excursion.
One of the advantages of Santa Marinella—and of those other two destinations—is that the train station is close to the sea. Once you get off the train, you can easily walk to the main beaches.
It's the perfect place for an aperitivo at sunset! We call it "the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea."
The symbol of this seaside town is the Castle of Santa Severa, which stands directly overlooking the sea.
The combination of beach, history, and beautiful scenery makes it an ideal destination for families as well. You can explore the castle village, take a swim, and then enjoy a meal right by the water.
Sperlonga requires a bit more planning, but it's absolutely worth it. The sea here is breathtaking.
From Rome Termini, take a train to Fondi-Sperlonga; the journey takes just over an hour. From the station, you'll need to take a bus to the beach.
Sperlonga is famous for its whitewashed historic center and its beautiful beaches of pale sand set in unspoiled natural surroundings.
While you're there, be sure to visit the Villa of Tiberius and the Cave of Tiberius.
Gaeta is one of the most beautiful destinations in southern Lazio.
From Rome Termini, take a train to Formia-Gaeta; the trip takes about an hour and a half. From Formia, you can then take a Cotral bus into Gaeta.
If you visit Gaeta, be sure to spend some time at Serapo Beach for a swim, explore the Split Mountain (Montagna Spaccata), and climb up to the Sanctuary of the Most Holy Trinity.
You absolutely must try tiella di Gaeta, a local savory pie traditionally filled with octopus or escarole. And don't forget the famous Gaeta olives.
But that's not all! Near Rome there are also some beautiful lakes.
First among them is Castel Gandolfo. You can reach it from Rome Termini by train in less than an hour.
Here you can stroll through the village, visit the Papal Villas, or simply relax by the lakeshore.
As for food, you'll be spoiled for choice: porchetta, traditional Roman dishes, coppiette (cured meat snacks), and plenty of wine!
Lake Bracciano is another excellent alternative to the sea. Here you'll find yet another castle—the Orsini-Odescalchi Castle—dominating the panoramic view.
Pack a sandwich from home and enjoy the day!
Ponza is the most spectacular destination in Lazio.
You can take a train from Rome to either Anzio or Formia and then continue by ferry or hydrofoil.
Ponza boasts crystal-clear waters, colorful houses, little fishing boats, and a vibrant atmosphere.
I recommend booking a boat tour to visit Chiaia di Luna, the natural pools, and the sea caves.
So there you have it…
From Rome, it takes very little to feel as though you're enjoying a classic Italian summer holiday, sipping a Spritz under a beach umbrella.
What are you waiting for?
Summer here is wonderful. ????️????????????
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