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There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Tivoli sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Italy, Tivoli is a treasure trove of enchanting attractions that await every traveler’s discovery.
From the stunning cascades of ancient gardens to the majestic ruins, Tivoli offers an unforgettable experience that takes you back in time, where beauty, history, and art magically converge.
Get ready to embark on a remarkable journey, where the wonders of nature and the marvels of human ingenuity collide, and let Tivoli enchant you with all its splendor.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Tivoli:
1. Villa d’Este
Villa d’Este is a magnificent Renaissance villa in Tivoli, Italy, known for its stunning gardens and fountains.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the magnificent gardens and marvel at the numerous fountains, waterfalls, pools, and grottoes. The villa also features frescoes and artwork from the Renaissance era.
Don’t miss: The Fountain of Neptune, the Oval Fountain, and the Hundred Fountains are must-see attractions in the garden. Inside the villa, don’t miss the various frescoes and paintings, including the Sala della Fontana and the Sala dei Fasti.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and uneven paths in the garden.
Consider taking a guided tour to gain additional insight into the history and architecture of the villa.
2. Hadrian’s Villa
A large Roman imperial villa complex built for the Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD.
What to see or do: Explore the extensive ruins of the villa, including the beautiful Canopus pool, the Maritime theatre, the Piazza d’Oro, and the Imperial Palace.
Marvel at the intricate mosaics and statues that adorn the site.
Don’t miss: The stunning Canopus pool, a large rectangular pool surrounded by columns and statues, and the Maritime theatre, a circular structure that was used to stage nautical performances.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the site.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat of midday. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
3. Villa Gregoriana
A stunning landscaped park in Tivoli, Italy, created in the 19th century around the Aniene River waterfall.
What to see or do: Explore the winding paths and lush gardens, admire the stunning views of the waterfall, and explore the park’s many caves and grottoes.
Be sure to visit the Temple of Vesta and the Roman-era ruins, as well as the charming town of Tivoli itself.
Don’t miss: The impressive Grand Cascade, which features a series of waterfalls and pools, as well as the breathtaking views from the terrace overlooking the valley below.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths and bring plenty of water, as there are few facilities within the park.
Consider visiting in the fall or spring, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are smaller. And be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning natural beauty of Villa Gregoriana.
4. Temple of Vesta
Temple of Vesta is an ancient Roman temple located in Tivoli, Italy. It is dedicated to Vesta, the goddess of the hearth, home, and family.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple’s circular base and Corinthian columns, which are made of marble and tufa. The temple’s interior is not open to the public.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and explore the other ancient ruins located in Tivoli, including the Hadrian’s Villa and the Villa d’Este.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of stairs and uneven paths around the temple. Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
5. Tivoli Cathedral
Tivoli Cathedral, also known as Saint Lawrence Cathedral, is a beautiful Roman Catholic church located in the heart of Tivoli, Italy.
What to see or do: With its stunning baroque architecture and intricate frescoes, visitors can admire the beauty both inside and outside of the cathedral.
Take a stroll through the peaceful gardens surrounding the church, or attend a mass or other religious ceremony to experience the sanctity of this holy space.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to view the breathtaking frescoes that adorn the walls of the cathedral. Created by Italian painter, Pinturicchio, they are among the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of Renaissance art in Italy.
Insider travel tips: It’s free to enter the cathedral, but a small donation is appreciated. Be sure to dress appropriately – no shorts or bare shoulders – as it is an active religious site.
To avoid crowds, try to visit outside of peak tourist season.
6. Castello della Rocca Pia
A medieval castle built in the 15th century that overlooks the town of Tivoli.
What to see or do: Take a tour of the castle’s interior and explore its towers and battlements. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the castle’s ramparts.
Don’t miss: The castle’s impressive dungeons and torture chamber, complete with gruesome instruments of punishment.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes as the castle’s stone stairs and narrow passages can be challenging to navigate.
Also, consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and take advantage of the best lighting for photos.
7. Sanctuary of Hercules Victor
What to see or do: Admire the well-preserved circular structure of the sanctuary built during the 2nd century BC, marvel at the iconic 16 fluted Corinthian columns that surround it, and explore the nearby ruins of Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic view of Tivoli from the sanctuary’s location on the edge of a picturesque hilltop overlooking the city.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the breathtaking sunrise views. Wear comfortable shoes as the sanctuary’s path can be steep and rocky.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Villa d’Este to experience one of the most magnificent gardens in Italy.
8. Ponte Gregoriano
Ponte Gregoriano is a historical bridge located in Tivoli, Italy, which dates back to the 17th century.
What to see or do: Take a stroll across the bridge to admire the beautiful views of the Aniene River and the stunning landscapes of Tivoli.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the cascading waterfalls of Villa Gregoriana, located just below the bridge, which are truly breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photography. Wear comfortable shoes as you might want to explore the nearby gardens and parks too.
9. Villa Adriana
A sprawling villa complex built by the Roman emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, located in Tivoli, Italy.
What to see or do: Explore the vast grounds and admire the impressive architecture, including the Canopus and Serapeum pools, the Maritime Theatre, and the Temple of Venus.
Don’t miss: The Grand Thermae, where you can see the remains of the ancient sauna and cold plunge pools, and the Pecile, a large open-air courtyard with a pool and surrounded by columns.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes as the site is quite large, and be sure to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.
If possible, hire a guide to learn more about the history and significance of each feature.
10. Temple of the Sibyl
The Temple of the Sibyl is an ancient temple located in Tivoli, Italy, known for its picturesque view and unique architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The interior of the temple is also worth a visit, with its impressive architecture and decorative frescoes.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a walk around the temple to fully appreciate the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to take some amazing photos of the temple and the scenery.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the temple during the early morning or late afternoon hours to avoid crowds and take advantage of the beautiful lighting.
Also, wearing comfortable shoes is recommended, as there are some steep and uneven paths leading up to the temple.
11. Acropolis of Tivoli
A historic archaeological site located in Tivoli, Italy, dating back to ancient Roman times.
What to see or do: Explore the numerous ruins and structures within the Acropolis of Tivoli, including the Temple of Vesta, the Temple of the Sibyl, and the remains of the ancient Roman city walls.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views of Tivoli and the surrounding landscape from the top of the hill.
Insider travel tips: Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
12. Temple of Tiburtine Sibyl
An ancient temple dedicated to the Tiburtine Sibyl oracle, located in the town of Tivoli near Rome.
What to see or do: Explore the ruins of the temple, which include four columns and a carved lintel. Admire the surrounding landscape of Tivoli and take in the historical significance of this ancient site.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to learn about the legend of the Tiburtine Sibyl, a prophetess who supposedly predicted the coming of Christ to the Roman emperor Augustus.
Her prophecies were highly respected and sought after by the ancient Romans.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the site requires a bit of walking from the parking lot.
Also, be sure to bring a hat and plenty of water, as the sun can be intense during the summer months.
If you are interested in the history of the area, consider visiting the nearby Villa d’Este, a stunning Renaissance villa and garden.
13. Church of San Lorenzo
The Church of San Lorenzo is a historic church located in Tivoli, Italy. It was originally built in the 5th century and has undergone multiple renovations over the centuries.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture of the church, including its intricate facade and bell tower. Inside, there are stunning frescoes and a Romanesque crypt.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the stunning “Madonna del Soccorso” painting by Girolamo Siciolante da Sermoneta, located in the chapel of the same name.
Insider travel tips: – The church is located near other popular attractions in Tivoli, such as Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa, so consider planning to visit these sites together.
14. Rocca Pia Castle
Rocca Pia Castle is a medieval castle built in the 15th century located in the historic center of Tivoli, a small town near Rome.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Rocca Pia Castle can explore the castle’s impressive fortifications and take in panoramic views of Tivoli and the surrounding countryside from the ramparts of the castle walls.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the castle’s main tower, which offers some of the best views in all of Tivoli.
Additionally, there is a museum located inside the castle that gives visitors an opportunity to learn about the history of Tivoli and the castle itself.
Insider travel tips: To truly appreciate the medieval charm of Rocca Pia Castle, consider visiting the castle at sunset when the light is soft and the views are particularly stunning.
Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the castle’s narrow stairways and steep walls can be a challenge to climb.
Finally, it’s worth noting that the castle can get very busy during peak tourist season so consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
15. Chiesa di San Silvestro
Chiesa di San Silvestro is a beautiful church located in the heart of Tivoli, Italy. Built in the 12th century, this church is a perfect example of Romanesque architecture.
What to see or do: Take a tour around the church and admire its stunning Romanesque features including its bell tower, portico, and geometric decorations. Marvel at the beautiful frescoes and admire the artwork of Simone Martini, an Italian painter from the 14th century.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the stunning fresco of San Cristoforo, which depicts the Saint carrying baby Jesus across a river.
It is considered one of the most beautiful examples of a fresco from the 15th century.
Insider travel tips: