Things To Do
in Ciampino
Ciampino is a small Lazio town just southeast of Rome, anchored by its international airport and a compact historic center. It blends a calm residential vibe with easy access to the Roman hinterland, offering quick escapes to Castelli Romani and the Appian Way. Its streets are lined with family-run trattorie, bakeries, and markets that showcase Lazio's rustic flavors.
With frequent rail and bus links to Rome, Ciampino serves both as a peaceful base and a convenient gateway to the Eternal City.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Ciampino with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sipping authentic Italian coffee and tasting freshly baked pastries. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets, taking in the quaint architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the historic Santa Maria Assunta Church, a key landmark in the area.
In the afternoon, enjoy a delightful lunch at a trattoria, sampling traditional Roman dishes such as carbonara or cacio e pepe. Post-lunch, take a short train ride to the nearby city of Rome and explore the iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Spend some time shopping for souvenirs in the lively streets before heading back to Ciampino.
As evening falls, unwind with a leisurely dinner at a local ristorante, enjoying regional Italian wines and delicious homemade pasta. After dinner, take a sunset stroll around the city, appreciating the serene ambiance and twinkling lights. Cap off your night with gelato from a renowned gelateria, savoring the sweet flavors as you embrace the beauty of Ciampino.
Take a morning trip to the beautiful Castelli Romani area, where you can explore the picturesque hillside towns. Begin with a visit to Frascati, known for its exquisite white wines, and enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard. The fresh morning air and stunning views will set a perfect tone for your day.
Afterwards, indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of Frascati's traditional eateries, sampling local cheeses and meats. Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming streets of Nemi, famous for its strawberries and breathtaking lake views. Relax by the shores of Lake Nemi, soaking in the scenic beauty of the region.
Return to Ciampino in the evening and savor dinner at a hidden gem that specializes in local cuisine. Share stories over a family-style meal, enjoying dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Conclude your charming day by relaxing in a park while enjoying the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍝Three-course restaurant meal | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 mile | $8-12 |
| 🎟️Cinema ticket | $9-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Rome and other Lazio sights
- Relaxed base with easy airport access
- Rich Lazio cuisine and markets
- Reasonable prices compared to central Rome
- Small town feel may lack big-city nightlife
- Public transport to Rome can be less frequent than central hubs
- Limited direct tourist infrastructure in Ciampino (compared to Rome)
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Ciampino
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful, narrow lanes and pastel facades provide classic Italian street photography at any hour.
Photograph the stone church and surrounding arcades in the town center during golden hour.
Take short walks to hillside paths with views across the Lazio countryside toward Rome on clear days.
Food in Ciampino
Ciampino Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Lazio classic with guanciale, tomato and pecorino, best enjoyed in a traditional trattoria in Ciampino or nearby Rome.
Must-Try!
Artichokes slow-cooked with garlic, mint, and olive oil; a springtime Lazio staple.
Herb-roasted, rolled pork that’s juicy and flavorful, often found in markets and casual eateries.
Veal tenderized with prosciutto and sage, cooked in white wine and butter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and local street snacks.
Casual street-food options featuring crispy rice croquettes and rectangular pizza by weight.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite Buongiorno/Buonasera; handshake or light kiss on both cheeks in close circles.
Dress modestly in churches; speak softly in public spaces; avoid loud behavior in sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in Ciampino
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, service is often included; check the bill. If not included, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for smaller shops and markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with peak crowds around Rome; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan early morning or late afternoon excursions.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for outdoor markets and hill walks.
Cool but usually dry; occasional rain; great for museum visits and cozy trattorie.
Blooming landscapes around Lazio; perfect for outdoor walks and photography.
Ciampino at Night
Hiking in Ciampino
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A regional park with scenic trails through hills, vineyards, and forests; popular for day hikes from Ciampino.
Gentle lakeside trails around the lago, with viewpoints across the water and surrounding hills.
Airports
How to reach Ciampino by plane.
A short drive or bus ride from the town center; international and domestic flights, mainly low-cost carriers; convenient for quick access to Rome.
Rome's main international airport, 20-30 miles away; multiple domestic and international connections; reachable by train or bus via Rome.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residential town with schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
Residents who travel to Rome for work, using the airport and rail links.
Visitors seeking a quieter base near Rome with easy access to Castelli Romani and historic sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport; local clubs and matches are common in Lazio communities.
Hilly terrain around Ciampino and the Castelli Romani make cycling a popular activity.
Local clubs and school facilities provide basketball opportunities for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ciampino.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most trattorie, with pasta, vegetable sides, and fresh salads; ask for cucina vegetariana or piatti senza carne.