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Castelli Romani: an experience between art, culture, food & wine Preview

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Rome, Italy
Nature ToursSightseeing ToursAttractionsArts & CulturePilgrimage Or Religion
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About this activity

Escape Rome's crowds for a full-day immersion into the Castelli Romani hill towns, where volcanic soils nurture world-class wines and centuries of art meet authentic Roman countryside cooking. Journey through papal history, Renaissance villas, and working vineyards while sampling local specialties in a traditional fraschetta.

From the hilly areas of Marino and Genzano di Roma, to the peaks of Rocca di Papa and Rocca Priora, the Castelli Romani towns are characterized by a wide variety of spaces. Discover the Roman Castles through the archeology of the Colli Albani, the historical residences, the Via Francigena, the Vie del Sacro and the path of the Two Lakes. These are itineraries to appreciate the landscape and natural beauty of the territory, its flavors, tastes and aromas; it is the genuineness that gives unique characteristics to the dishes of our kitchen.
First we’ll visit Castel Gandolfo – a lovely town where the Pope has his summer residence. These towns lay in a dormant volcanic crater which has provided fertile land for the growth of grapes and the production of wine. This means we cannot miss a stop to a local wine cellar with the visit of its vineyard and a tasting of local food and wine. After a short visit of Ariccia, you'll have lunch in a typical Fraschetta and then return to Rome. 

Highlights

  • ✓Castel Gandolfo: the Pope's summer papal residence and lakeside village
  • ✓Working vineyard tour and local wine tasting in the volcanic Colli Albani region
  • ✓Lunch at a traditional fraschetta (family-run Roman tavern) with regional dishes
  • ✓Hilltop towns of Marino, Genzano, Rocca di Papa with panoramic views
  • ✓Archaeological and historical sites tracing the Via Francigena pilgrimage route
  • ✓Photography opportunities across rolling vineyards and Renaissance architecture

Insider tips

  • ★The volcanic crater geology creates uniquely mineral-rich wines—ask your tasting guide about terroir differences between vineyard parcels
  • ★Fraschette traditionally offer abundant local cheese, cured meats, and house wine at better value than tourist restaurants; arrive hungry
  • ★Early morning departure from Rome avoids afternoon crowds at Castel Gandolfo and allows better light for hilltop photography
  • ★Many routes incorporate the Two Lakes path (Lago di Albano and Lago di Nemi)—ideal for a short walk if you ask your guide

Good to know

  • •8-hour duration includes travel time from Rome; confirm pickup/drop-off location and time when booking
  • •Comfortable walking shoes essential—town exploration and vineyard visits involve uneven terrain and moderate slopes
  • •Lunch is included at a traditional fraschetta; communicate dietary requirements in advance
  • •Weather varies significantly in the hills; bring a light jacket even in summer
  • •Limited accessibility for mobility challenges due to historic cobblestone streets and vineyard terrain

Who it's for

Wine enthusiasts seeking hands-on vineyard experience beyond TuscanyFood & culture travellers wanting authentic local dining and regional historyPhotography and landscape lovers drawn to volcanic terrain and Italian hill townsDay-trippers from Rome seeking a manageable escape without overnight travel

Best time to visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer ideal temperatures, fewer crowds, and harvest season activity at vineyards. Avoid peak summer heat and winter rain, which can make hilltop paths slippery.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€75
per person