Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend escape, or passing through on your way to Tuscany or Umbria, the Italian region of Lazio offers a wealth of experiences that often get overshadowed by its main attraction, Rome. The broader area around the Eternal City is well worth exploring. As a travel advisor specializing in trips to Italy, here are a few of my favorite Lazian destinations that you won’t want to miss.

Palazzo Farnese

The village of Caprarola, just an hour northwest of Rome, hides one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Palazzo Farnese is a 16th-century palace in the green hills of the Cimini Mountains that seems to rise from the volcanic rock itself. A marvel of its time, it was designed by master architect Vignola for Cardinal Alessandro Farnese and functioned as both a fortress and noble residence.

Vivid frescoes and ornate details of Renaissance and Mannerism elegance adorn the interior. The highlight is the “Scala Regia,” a grand spiral staircase reminiscent of Bramante’s in the Vatican Museum, which can only be seen through exclusive access. Beyond the palace walls, terraced gardens with fountains and sweeping views of the Lazio countryside offer a peaceful retreat.

The village of Caprarola is where the pinnacle of Italian grandeur meets small-town charm—a place to slow down and soak in centuries of beauty. Have a walk along the serene volcanic Lake Vico and eat at Trattoria del Cimino dal 1895, an authentic Lazian trattoria steps from the palace.

Sacro Bosco Di Bomarzo

The Gardens of Bomarzo, also an hour north of Rome, are another 16th-century landmark—though they have a decidedly more surreal energy than the palace. Here, there is the “Park of the Monsters,” which is filled with sculptures of mythological creatures, giant animals, and buildings that toy with principles of classic design.

Strange statues and cryptic riddles in Italian or Latin appear around every corner, making each visit feel like a discovery that the whole family can enjoy. Combine it with a trip to Villa Lante, in the village of Bagnaia, one of the most famous Italian Mannerist “surprise” gardens, which similarly aim to subvert expectations and delight visitors.

Castelli Romani

The hills of Castelli Romani offer a harmony of wine, food, and agricultural landscapes. Frascati, a town in the region, is renowned for its award-winning white wines, especially the prestigious DOC and DOCG Superior bottles. Each sip reflects Lazio’s volcanic soil, adding distinctive minerality and depth. Winemaking here is a tradition dating back to the Roman Empire.

Another highlight in this area is the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo. This palace, sitting on Lake Albano, is often used as a summer retreat for the Pope.

With 2,000-year-old ancient Roman roads and Etruscan tombs, grand villas, papal palaces, charming medieval towns, rolling countryside, and unforgettable food and wine, Lazio has something for every traveler.

Fulvio De Bonis is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in trips to Italy. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with De Bonis and Imago Artis Travel at [email protected].