Excursion to Castelli Romani - the Roman Castles 5 hours

When we hear "Roman Castles," we often imagine a landscape of fairy-tale castles or Gothic-style fortresses, similar to those found in Northern Europe. However, the region of the Roman Castles (Castelli Romani) is entirely different.
The Roman Castles. Castel Gandolfo - Lake Albano
This area is a collection of small provincial towns located 30 km from Rome, nestled within the Castelli Romani Regional Park amidst the Alban Hills of volcanic origin. It is a landscape best described as a “sanctuary of nature shaped by human hands,” where the mysterious, dark glimmer of Lake Albano and Lake Nemi and the vibrant blooms of trees in winter are truly breathtaking.
It’s a journey through time, from the legends of Ancient Rome to the era of the Popes. It is a place of natural wonders, including a rare example of a natural optical illusion. The region also boasts simple yet rich local cuisine and the silvery Frascati wine. In short, it is the real Italy — authentic and unpretentious.
Tour Itinerary - The Roman Castles
The tour begins at the archaeological site of the Baths of Caracalla and the Ancient Appian Way. The route then leads to Castel Gandolfo, a town located on the site of the legendary city of Alba Longa, the birthplace of Romulus and Remus. It is a popular destination all year round, situated on the western shore of Lake Albano with stunning panoramic views.
The main attraction of Castel Gandolfo is the Papal Villa, whose history dates back to the early 16th century and is associated with various popes. For centuries, the Popes would spend their summers here. Saint John Paul I referred to the villa as the "Second Vatican," and it remains an extraterritorial property.
Today, the entire Papal Summer Residence complex in Castel Gandolfo is open to visitors. Spanning 55 hectares, it includes the Papal Palace or Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo with private apartments, the Gallery of Papal Portraits, the Gardens of Villa Barberini, and even the Vatican Bio-Farm.
This remarkable opening is a reflection of Pope Francis's pastoral approach. He chose to reside in a modest apartment in the Casa Santa Marta, a residence for cardinals during the conclave, instead of the papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace overlooking St. Peter’s Square.
Beaches - Lake Albano
The Antico Ristorante PAGNATELLI, established in 1882, offers exquisite food, impeccable service, and a stunning view of Lake Albano. It also houses a wine museum. Nearby is the ARTE e VINO tavern, a unique venue where vintage items decorate the space. It offers a wide range of local dishes made from organic products, and owner Angelo personally welcomes guests.
During summer, you can stop for a swim at Lake Albano before visiting Nemi, Frascati, Ariccia, or Genzano di Roma.
GENZANO DI ROMA
This charming village, not far from Lake Nemi, traces its history to the Cistercian monks who built a fortified castle in 1255, around which the old town of Genzano gradually grew. Today, Genzano is famous for its annual Infiorata festival, held on Via Italo Belardi.
First held in 1778 in celebration of Corpus Domini, the event covers the street in a floral carpet around 2,000 square metres in size, depicting 13 religious or secular scenes, including reproductions of famous artworks or geometric patterns. On Sunday evening, a procession carries the Holy Sacrament from Santa Maria della Cima to the Collegiate Church. The carpet remains on display, with wilted petals replaced until Monday evening when children symbolically destroy the Infiorata. In 2011, the event was declared Italy's Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Tourism.
Genzano is also known for the Festa del Pane Casareccio di Genzano in September, celebrating traditional bread-making. This local bread was the first in Italy to receive IGP status.
NEMI - The Second Most Popular Village in the Roman Castles
Nemi is nestled in the verdant heart of Castelli Romani, perched 520 metres above sea level, overlooking Lake Nemi. Walking down its winding main street, the aroma of local meats and delicacies from artisan shops entices visitors.
The town’s Strawberry Festival has ancient roots, originally a pagan celebration in Ancient Rome, later Christianised in honour of St. Anthony. The tradition was transferred to Nemi from Campo de' Fiori in Rome in the 1870s. The festival is held in May, when strawberries are at their most fragrant, with early harvests starting in April.
ARICCIA - A Culinary Journey
Ariccia, set between two lakes, is famous for its fraschette, traditional eateries offering porchetta di Ariccia. This ancient roast pork delicacy, thought to predate Roman conquest, was originally prepared for offerings to Latian Zeus. The practice was perfected by Roman nobles and continues to thrive today.
FRASCATI
Frascati, the final stop on the culinary tour, is synonymous with Frascati wine. The town's landmark, Villa Belvedere degli Aldobrandini, is frequently depicted in art. Since the Grand Tour era, writers and artists have drawn inspiration from the town's beauty and wine.