In Lazio, it’s impossible to throw a stone and not hit a “historic” site. Before the Roman Empire, the Etruscan civilization ruled northern Lazio. Though little remains of their lifestyle, the famous Etruscan burial sites remain. Some of the best Roman archeological sites include Ostia Antica (Rome’s ruined port), major temple complexes in Palestrina and Terracina, and ruins of villas belonging to Roman emperors such as Nero (at Anzio), and Tivoli features the most luxurious villa built by Hadrian. There is also the Castel Gandolfo which is now the Pope’s private garden.
Opera is an Italian invention, and there’s no better place to see a live performance in Rome than at the Teatro dell’Opera. This beautiful theater, embellished by stucco work and a magnificent chandelier, boasts an interior resonance chamber. World-famous stars such as Caruso, Maria callas, Renata Tebaldi and Pavarotti have graced the stage. In conjunction to the Teatro dell’Opera company, there is also the Teatro Nazionale, which features dance performances and the Terme di Caracalla. The Terme di Caracalla is an archaeological site that has been turned into an open air theater. If you happen to travel to Rome in early March and April, you will be able to enjoy the spring festival: Festa di Primavera. This festival features free guided tours of churches, monuments and a series of concerts.
Eating like a Roman is simple: choose only the finest local ingredients. A good meal in Italy is not about the recipe or some complex technique; rather, it is the vital integrity of the food that shines through with each dish. You can have pizza anywhere, so it’s valuable to try regional dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara made with an egg and cheese sauce and bacon. If you are the type who is willing to try anything, then order some Rigatoni alla Pagliata (rigatoni with calf intestine).
If your idea of a great vacation is to enjoy the outdoors and go for a hike then the hills and lakes of Lazio have much to offer. Nearby Bracciano Lake is a national park. There are three main cities on the lake: Bracciona, Trevignano Romano and Anguillara Sabazia. The next nearby lake is Lago di Martignano which features an unspoiled environment since it is nestled between two farms. There are campgrounds available for those who don't wish to stay at hotels.
If summertime means getting sand in your hair, then check out Marina di Montalto—a coastal resort town located in the northern part of Lazio. A little down south is Tarquinia, which also features a beach resort. If your trip focuses on Rome, you can still get away to the beaches of Fregene using public transport.
