Things To Do
in Nettuno

Nettuno is a charming coastal town in Lazio just south of Rome, perched on the Tyrrhenian Sea with a mix of sandy beaches and a historic center. Its marina and promenade create a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere focused on seafood and seafront views. The town offers easy day trips to nearby Anzio and Rome, making it a convenient coastal escape.

In summer it buzzes with beachgoers and markets, while the off-season brings quiet strolls and serene sea views along the promenade.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring the aroma of fresh espresso and pastries. Afterward, wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Nettuno's historic center, where you can admire the ancient architecture and vibrant piazzas. Don't miss a visit to the beautiful Church of Saint John the Baptist, known for its stunning frescoes and serene ambiance.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a traditional trattoria, indulging in local seafood dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole. Post-lunch, take a stroll along the picturesque harbor, watching fishermen at work and soaking in the coastal views. Explore the nearby Bastion of Saint Anne, which offers panoramic vistas of the sea and the town.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a seaside restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring fresh catch of the day. Experience the vibrant local nightlife by exploring the bars and gelaterias that line the waterfront. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the sandy beaches of Nettuno. Spend the morning sunbathing or swimming in the crystal-clear waters, enjoying the warm Mediterranean sun. You can also rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline from a different perspective.

afternoon
:

After a morning of relaxation, grab a light lunch at a beachside café, where you can enjoy fresh salads and cold drinks. In the afternoon, take part in exciting water sports like windsurfing or jet skiing, available at various rental spots along the beach. Be sure to take breaks to soak in the stunning scenery and the lively atmosphere of fellow beachgoers.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, enjoy a refreshing cocktail at a beach bar, watching the sky change colors over the horizon. For dinner, treat yourself to a beachfront seafood restaurant that specializes in grilled fish and local wines. End your evening with a stroll along the promenade, feeling the ocean breeze and listening to the sounds of the waves.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee in a cafe$2-4
🍝Three-course dinner for two$40-70
🚆One-way local transport ticket$2-4
🏨Night in a mid-range hotel$90-180

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Coastal beauty and easy access from Rome
  • Fresh seafood and relaxed, family-friendly vibe
  • Walkable town center and scenic promenade
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Parking can be challenging in peak season
  • Some attractions and services close outside summer season
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Mi può consigliare un buon ristorante?" - Could you recommend a good restaurant?

Places to Visit in Nettuno

Visit one of these nice places.

Porto di Nettuno

The harbor at dawn or dusk, with fishing boats and the calm water reflecting the light.

Lungomare di Nettuno

Long seaside promenade perfect for wide-angle shots of the sea, palm trees, and the sunset over the Tyrrhenian.

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II

Historic square with the church and colorful facades, ideal for candid street photography.

Seaside promontory overlook

A vantage point along the coast offering expansive sea views and dramatic golden hour photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nettuno

Nettuno’s cuisine centers on seafood, Roman-influenced pasta, and simple, seasonally driven dishes. Expect olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and plenty of fresh fish along the Lungomare.

Nettuno Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Spaghetti alle vongole

Clams in a light garlic, white wine, and parsley sauce, a staple at seaside trattorie along the coast.

Must-Try!

Frittura di paranza

A light platter of mixed fried fish caught that day, typically served with lemon and parsley.

Zuppa di pesce

A hearty Italian seafood soup with tomatoes, herbs, and crusty bread, perfect for cooler evenings.

Supplì

Rice croquettes filled with cheese, a popular snack or starter in local bars.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Nettuno

Weekly market where you can pick up fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, and regional specialties.

Lungomare street bites

Casual stalls and snack bars offering fried seafood, gelato, and pastries along the sea promenade.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nettuno has a Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and mild, wetter winters. Summer average highs around the upper 20s to low 30s Celsius (80s–90s Fahrenheit), while winter highs hover around 10-15 C (50-60 F). Spring and autumn bring pleasant temperatures and gentle sea breezes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Etiquette Rule

Greet with a courteous Buongiorno or Ciao; dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior in residential areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Safety is generally good in Nettuno. Watch for strong coastal currents if you swim in rough weather, and secure valuables on crowded beaches. For health emergencies, dial 118; general care can be found in local clinics, and for major care use nearby hospitals in Anzio or Rome. Always follow local advisories about weather and sea conditions.

Tipping in Nettuno

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A 5-10% tip is common if service is not included; round up at bars or cafes. Cash is widely accepted, though cards are increasingly common in restaurants and larger shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot days, crowded beaches, and lively evenings; book restaurants early and wear sun protection.

Autumn

Moderate temperatures with calmer beaches and colorful coastal landscapes; great for walks.

Winter

Milder than much of Europe, with quiet streets and occasional rain; ideal for cozy cafes and seafood dinners.

Spring

Blooming seaside scenery and pleasant temperatures; perfect for outdoor exploring.

Nightlife Guide

Nettuno at Night

Nettuno’s nightlife is relaxed and seasonal. In summer, seaside bars and cafes along the promenade stay open late, with live music sometimes at piazzas or beach clubs. Expect a casual, family-friendly vibe rather than a high-energy party scene; nearby towns like Anzio and Rome offer more options.

Hiking in Nettuno

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tor Caldara Nature Reserve trails

Coastal trails through pine woods and dunes near Anzio; easy hikes with ocean views.

Parco Naturale dei Monti Ausoni

Forest trails and hill routes in the Ausoni mountains; a longer day hike from Nettuno.

Circeo National Park trails

Seaside and inland hikes in the Circeo area, offering ocean panoramas and forest paths.

Airports

How to reach Nettuno by plane.

Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

Rome’s main international airport, about an hour by car or train from Nettuno; frequent connections to major cities.

Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA)

Smaller airport serving budget and domestic flights; 1–1.5 hours away by road depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nettuno is compact with a pleasant walkable center: the harbor, old town, and seafront are linked by pedestrian-friendly streets. The promenade is ideal for long strolls, and most essential sights are within a short radius. Hills in the older parts of town add a little elevation, but you can explore most areas on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

A mix of local families, retirees, and seasonal visitors; English is commonly understood in tourist areas during peak season.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Calcio (soccer)

The most popular sport; local teams and casual matches are common in parks and beaches.

Transportation

Traffic

Summer traffic to and from Rome increases along the coast; expect limited parking in peak season. Trains from Rome to Nettuno run regularly (Servizio ferroviario). Cotral buses connect Nettuno to nearby towns. Driving can be slower on holiday weekends due to crowds.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nettuno.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarians can enjoy pasta with tomato or olive oil, grilled vegetables, and cheeses; ask for dishes made without meat stock and choose seafood-free soups.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via local clinics in Nettuno and nearby Anzio; for emergencies dial 112 and the national health service (SSN). For complex care, patients typically visit hospitals in Anzio or Rome. Pharmacies are common in town and staff often speak basic English.

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