Things To Do
in Acilia
Acilia is a coastal suburb of Rome, located to the southwest of the city along the Lazio coast. It blends a quiet, residential atmosphere with easy access to beaches and ancient sites, making it a convenient base for day trips into Rome and Ostia. The area offers a relaxed pace, local markets, trattorie, and sea views that shift with the seasons.
As a gateway to Ostia Antica and Roman beach life, Acilia is well-connected by rail and road, inviting visitors to explore both inland history and seaside scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Acilia, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings. Stop by a local café for a traditional Italian breakfast, enjoying a fresh cornetto and cappuccino while soaking in the morning sun. As the town awakens, you'll find vibrant markets setting up, offering a glimpse into the local culture.
After lunch, visit the nearby archaeological sites to delve into the rich history of the area, where ancient Roman ruins tell captivating stories. Explore the small museums showcasing local art and artifacts, providing insight into Acilia's past. Take a moment to relax in one of the town's parks, surrounded by lush greenery and perhaps a few friendly locals.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional trattoria for dinner, where you can savor authentic Italian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as families gather for an evening meal, and don't forget to try the homemade pasta. After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the serene ambiance and perhaps stopping for gelato.
Kick off your day with a drive to the nearby coastline, where the golden sands of the beaches await. Rent some beach chairs and umbrellas for a relaxing morning, basking in the sun and listening to the gentle waves. For the more adventurous, try your hand at paddle boarding or kayaking in the calm waters.
After a morning of sun and surf, indulge in a seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant, where the catch of the day is always fresh. Spend the afternoon enjoying beach volleyball or simply lounging while sipping on refreshing drinks. Take a dip in the Mediterranean to cool off, feeling the warm sun on your skin.
As the day winds down, enjoy a beachside sunset that paints the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect backdrop for some memorable photographs. Head to a beach bar for a casual dinner, where you can enjoy fresh fish dishes accompanied by local wines. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the shore, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or espresso | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way public transport ticket | $1.5-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $70-150 |
| 🛒Groceries for a basic week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to both Roman culture and the Lazio coast
- Relaxed, less-touristy vibe compared to central Rome
- Good value for seafood and fresh produce at markets
- Strong rail connections to Ostia Antica and central Rome
- Limited nightlife within Acilia itself; more options in Ostia or Rome
- Beach facilities can be crowded in peak summer
- Some signage and services are localized; English may be limited outside tourist areas
- Public transport can be slower on weekends or holidays
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Acilia
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic beacon at the edge of the harbor with a long jetty and sweeping sea views—excellent at dawn or sunset.
Well-preserved ancient streets, mosaics, and walls offering dramatic light and texture for wide-angle and detail shots.
Colorful facades, fishing boats, and a lively waterfront atmosphere perfect for candid street photography.
Long seaside promenade with palm trees and sea cliffs; ideal for long-exposure seascapes and golden-hour portraits.
Food in Acilia
Acilia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spaghetti with clams in garlic, olive oil, and white wine; a quintessential coastal dish, especially delicious with freshly caught clams.
Must-Try!
Fish soup featuring a medley of local seafood, tomatoes, and herbs; best savored in rustic seaside eateries.
Baked sea bass with herbs and lemon; a staple at many Lido di Ostia restaurants.
Classic Roman pasta with guanciale, tomato, and pecorino; widely available in trattorie around Acilia.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh fish, produce, cheeses, and prepared street foods; ideal for sampling local flavors and picking up picnic ingredients.
Try supplì (fried rice balls), pizza al taglio, and grilled seafood along the seafront stalls—great for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'buongiorno' (good morning) or 'buonasera' (good evening); a handshake is common in formal settings, while friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and observe local customs inside sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Acilia
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included in restaurant bills; rounding up or small extra tips are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cards are widely accepted in eateries and shops; cash is handy for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and busy with beach crowds; plan beach visits early, stay hydrated, and seek shade during peak heat hours. Expect high humidity and occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
Mild temperatures with fewer crowds; great for outdoor walks and photography along the coast. Rain is possible, so pack a light jacket.
Cool but generally mild; many beaches quieter, making it a peaceful time for atmospheric seascapes. Rain and chilly winds are common; layer up.
Pleasant temps and blooming coastal scenery; ideal for walking tours and exploring Ostia Antica with comfortable weather.
Acilia at Night
Hiking in Acilia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails along the Lazio coast with sea views, pine forests, and archaeological sites; suitable for day hikes and photography.
Short hikes that connect to nearby towns and rural landscapes, offering quieter scenery away from the coast.
Airports
How to reach Acilia by plane.
Rome’s main international airport, about 25-30 km from Acilia; accessible by train (FL1) and highway routes.
Smaller airport primarily serving low-cost carriers; roughly 40-50 km from Acilia; reachable by bus and rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families choose Acilia for its residential feel and access to beaches and parks.
Residents who travel to Rome or Ostia for work rely on efficient rail connections.
The calm coastal environment is attractive to retirees seeking a slower pace near the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant sport across Lazio with local teams and community leagues; watch or participate in casual matches along the coast.
Common on Ostia Lido beaches during summer; informal courts and weekend tournaments attract locals and visitors alike.
Coastal and inland routes suitable for day trips and rides along bike paths near Acilia and Ostia.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Acilia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Lazio, opt for vegetarian pasta with seasonal vegetables, marinated artichokes, carciofi alla Romana (artichokes Roman style), and grilled vegetables; inform staff about cheese or broth if dietary needs require it.