Things To Do
in Frascati
Frascati is a picturesque hill town in Lazio, just southeast of Rome. It is renowned for its white wine, elegant villas, and panoramic terraces overlooking the Roman plain and Lake Albano. The historic center blends medieval lanes, Renaissance churches, and lively trattorie that showcase local cuisine.
Convenient rail and road links make Frascati an ideal base for exploring the Castelli Romani and Rome’s classical sights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Frascati and check into your charming accommodation, absorbing the serene atmosphere of this picturesque town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and authentic Italian coffee. Take a gentle stroll through the historic streets to get a feel for the area.
Grab lunch at a traditional trattoria, indulging in homemade pasta and local wine. Afterward, explore the beautiful Villa Aldobrandini, with its stunning gardens and panoramic views over Rome and the surrounding countryside. Spend some time wandering through the quaint streets, stopping at artisan shops.
As the sun sets, enjoy a sunset dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the cityscape. The glowing lights of the town will add to the magic of your first evening in Frascati. Wind down by sipping an aperitivo at a local wine bar, soaking in the lively ambiance.
After breakfast, head to the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria in Centro, where you can admire its beautiful Baroque architecture and significant artworks. Spend some time reflecting in the peaceful surroundings and appreciating the history of this holy site. Don't forget to capture some photos of the intricate details.
Lunch at a nearby pizzeria allows you to taste some of the best wood-fired pizza in the region. Post-lunch, venture to the nearby Frascati Cathedral to appreciate its stunning frescoes and local art. Take in the view of the surrounding hills from the cathedral’s terrace.
Dinner is at a cozy restaurant serving local specialties, where you can try classic dishes like saltimbocca alla romana. As you dine, listen to live music from local artists that often play in the restaurants. End the evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or cappuccino | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $4-7 |
| 🧺Souvenir or small gift | $5-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming hillside ambience with scenic viewpoints
- High-quality local wines and Lazio cuisine
- Easy day trips to Rome and Castelli Romani
- Limited nightlife compared with Rome
- Some sights require walking on hills or stairs
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Non capisco" - I don't understand
- "Senta, per favore" - Excuse me, please (to get attention)
Places to Visit in Frascati
Visit one of these nice places.
Terraced gardens offering sweeping views over Frascati and the Lazio hills.
Hiking trails with forest scenery and glimpses of ancient ruins and distant horizons.
Shoreline vantage points and lakeside reflections, especially at sunset.
Historic square with Baroque architecture and lively street scenes.
Food in Frascati
Frascati Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Lazio staple of pasta with chickpeas, olive oil, and herbs.
Must-Try!
Lamb with garlic, rosemary, and white wine.
Herb-stuffed roasted pork, sliced thick.
Pasta with pecorino cheese and black pepper.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market stalls selling fresh produce, bread, cheese, and regional delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buongiorno' or 'Buona sera'; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Modest dress in churches; keep voices moderate in public spaces.
Meal times are social; wait to start eating until everyone is served in many places.
Safety
Tipping in Frascati
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included; otherwise, a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated in casual settings.
Credit cards widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash is common at markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry days with long evenings; enjoy terrace dining and sunset views, stay hydrated.
Mild weather with harvest markets and crimson hillside colors; great for hiking and wine tasting.
Cool and often rainy; cozy cafés and wine bars are inviting, with fewer crowds.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming vineyards; ideal for walks, photography, and outdoor meals.
Frascati at Night
Hiking in Frascati
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with panoramic viewpoints and occasional ruins.
Challenging climb to a high vantage point over the Lazio region.
Round-the-lake paths with tranquil scenery and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Frascati by plane.
Main international gateway to Rome; accessible by train or car to Frascati in about 40–60 minutes.
Smaller airport near Rome; often used by budget carriers; easier transit to Frascati by train or taxi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly families and retirees seeking hillside living near Rome.
Many residents commute to Rome for work and study.
Visitors drawn to the Castelli Romani’s scenery and wines.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Italy’s favorite sport; local clubs and matches are common in the Lazio region.
Hilly routes through Castelli Romani attract cyclists of all levels.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Monte Tuscolo and Monte Cavo for trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Frascati.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made vegetarian; opt for pasta with vegetables, grilled veggies, or bean dishes. Inquire about broths and rennet in cheeses.