What To Do In Tivoli

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The hill town of Tivoli is a maze of medieval streets, alleys and stairways, with bars and restaurants and historic churches. It has a long history stretching back to Roman times and it is surrounded by hot springs. So why do so many visitors limit themselves to a single day trip from Rome? And what is there to do in Tivoli if you decide to stay a little longer.

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Why Visit Tivoli?

For many tourists the main reason to visit Tivoli is to explore its two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Hadrian’s Villa and the gardens of the Villa d’Este. However the town has several other reminders of its long history, including Roman ruins, a medieval castle, and several interesting churches. There are also viewpoints and walking paths for those who want to explore the surrounding countryside.

Staying overnight has an added benefit. Most visitors seem to be day trippers, meaning that when evening arrives the locals reclaim the town. It becomes once more a charming Italian hill town where you can relax and enjoy a meal in one of the excellent restaurants.

Night time in Tivoli, in a narrow street looking through an archway. — A medieval street in Tivoli

Tivoli’s Historic Villas

There are three historic villas in Tivoli. These were built as rural retreats, places to avoid the summer heat of Rome. Two of them – Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este – are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The third, Villa Gregoriana, is on the UNESCO Tentative list.

Villa Adriana

A short distance from the town of Tivoli, the Villa Adriana was built for the Emperor Hadrian in the 2^nd century CE. It was more of a small town than a single residence, with a palace, baths and administrative buildings. Today’s visitors can stroll around the extensive ruins and parkland.

Villa D’Este

The 16^th century Villa d’Este is remarkable mainly for its gardens, on the side of a steep hill with views across the countryside. With terraces, statues, fountains and waterfalls, you could spend several hours enjoying these gardens (just remember that when you have walked down the hill you will have to climb back up…)

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Villa Gregoriana

The gardens of the Villa Gregoriana were commissioned by Pope Gregory XVI in 1826. Following flooding the course of the nearby Aniene river was diverted, creating a huge waterfall which now cascades down the wooded slopes of a rocky gorge. Visitors to the gardens can scramble down narrow paths to find caves, tunnels and the remains of two temples as well as the original Roman villa.

Looking down on a fast flowing waterfall and trees from above. — The magnificent Aniene waterfall

Roman Tivoli

Tibur Superbum, as it was known, was one of the most important towns of Roman Italy, connected to Rome by the Via Tiburtina. Apart from the Villa Adriana, the most important Roman site in Tivoli is the Santuario di Ercole Vincitore, a temple and theatre complex dedicated to the hero and demigod Hercules.

There are several smaller Roman sites in the town, such as the Anfiteatro di Bleso and the Mensa Ponderaria (a public weigh-house). The remains of two temples can be seen behind the Ristorante Sibilla. And wherever you go you will see bits of Roman masonry built into later buildings.

Outer wall and doorway of a medieval house with carved Roman pillar set into the brickwork. — Look for bits of Roman masonry built into the walls of houses

What Else To See In Tivoli

One of the pleasures of Tivoli is just walking around the historic centre, with its tiny medieval passages, archways and breathtaking viewpoints. Look out for cobbled streets and unusual architectural details such as those of the so-called Gothic House on Via Campitelli.

Churches Of Tivoli

Tivoli has several impressive churches including the Cathedral, or Basilica of San Lorenzo, and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore (next door to the Via d’Este) which has so many frescoes that it feels like an art gallery! You’ll also find some interesting frescoes in the small San Silvestre church on Via del Colle.

Interior of church with painted celing and walls. The altar is decorated with statues and lots of flowers. — The magnificent church of Santa Maria Maggiore

Rocca Pia

Rocca Pia is a 15^th century fortress built by Pope Pius II as a way of controlling squabbles between two local families. It is currently closed to the public but you can see the large square structure with its four round towers from the outside.

Square castle with round towers at the corners. A flag is flying from one tower. — The 15th century Rocca Pia

Tivoli Terme

Tivoli has always been noted for its thermal springs, but today the spa facilities are at Tivoli Terme, around 8 km away. Tivoli Terme is a town in itself, with hotels, shops and a railway station, and spa treatments are available at the Acque Albule.

Looking across a river gorge towards Roman remains and a temple. There is a large tree to the side and old houses behind the temple. — Looking across the Aniene gorge towards the Sibilla temple

How To Visit Tivoli

Tivoli is around 30 km from Rome. You can reach it by train (most trains leave from Tiburtina station but there is also a less frequent service from Roma Termini).
If you drive you may find it easiest to park at the bottom and walk up to the historic centre. However, there are some small car parks higher up the hill if you are unable to walk.
People with mobility issues should note that this is a medieval town built on a hill. You will encounter stairs, slopes and uneven surfaces.
When walking round the town be aware that Google Maps is not entirely reliable. You may find yourself directed to a footpath that is closed for repairs…
There is a wide choice of restaurants and bars. Don’t miss the Ristorante Sibilla, an excellent restaurant in a historic building (you may need to book during busy periods).
There are lots of places to stay in Tivoli. Most of the larger hotels are near the bottom of the hill but there are some smaller hotels and B&Bs higher up. I stayed at the Al Palazzetto which was quite basic but very nice (if you stay here note that it doesn’t have its own car park).
Visiting in the winter months will allow you to avoid the crowds at the Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este. However some places may be closed at this time of year, and parts of sites may be closed for restoration – you will need to check in advance.

About Bewitched by italy

Bewitched By Italy is owned and managed by Karen Warren.

I have been writing and travelling for many years (almost 70 countries at the last count), but Italy remains one of my favourite destinations. This website is my attempt to inform and inspire other travellers, and to share some of the things I’ve discovered along the way. Read more…