Ostia Antica

If you are looking to get away from the crowded sites of Rome consider taking a day trip out to Ostia Antica, an ancient port city about half an hour's train ride outside of the city. Started in the 7th Century B.C., this town was the major port for centuries.  The oldest remains of the city today date from around the 3rd-4th Century B.C., and are in amazing condition for their age.  The architecture of the city and the amazing artistry still on display today will make you glad you spent the day visiting.

The metro will take you just a few blocks away from the entrance.  When you arrive prepare to be shocked about how empty it is.  While millions of visitors a year may visit Rome, only a small fraction make it out to this outdoor museum.   It does cost to get in, but the €6.50 price is well worth it.  The site is more than 10,000 acres, so plan on spending the full day out there.

When you walk in there is a long road that stretches the full length of the site, just as it did in ancient times.  One of the first sites will be the Baths of Neptune.  While you are in there be sure to check out the tile floors which are still in excellent condition considering some of them have been exposed to the elements for millennia.  Check of the massive amphitheatre on the right and then continue to the senate building which still looks like it could be in use today.  Past that starts the residential area where homes were built on multiple floors.  Keep going to see the outdoor frescoes, and climb to the top of some of the open stairwells to get a view from on high of the amazing ruins.