Things To Do
in Rieti
Rieti sits on a hill in Lazio's Sabine hills, offering panoramic views over the surrounding valleys. Its historic center is wrapped in ancient walls, with landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Basilica di San Domenico. The town serves as a gateway to Monte Terminillo and the lakes of Lago del Turano and Lago del Salto, ideal for day trips.
Visitors enjoy a relaxed pace, traditional trattorie, and markets that showcase local Lazio flavors and crafts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
You arrive in Rieti and settle into a charming B&B overlooking the Piazza San Rufo. A steaming cappuccino accompanies a freshly baked cornetto at a nearby café. Your local guide leads you on an orientation stroll through winding medieval lanes.
After checking into your hotel, enjoy a leisurely lunch of local salumi and crostini al tartufo. Explore the Duomo di Rieti and its art-filled cloister at your own pace. Pause for gelato in the shady arcade before visiting the San Francesco Church.
Sip a Spritz aperitivo in Piazza Mazzini as the sun casts warm light on ancient facades. Sample Rieti’s signature pecorino cheese paired with a glass of local red wine. Cap the night with a moonlit walk along the banks of the Velino River.
Begin at the Caritas Springs, inhaling the fresh scent of mountain water bubbling from ancient stone. A short hike along the spring-fed canal reveals medieval mill ruins framed by verdant vegetation. Your guide shares legends of pilgrims who once sought healing here.
Enjoy a rustic lunch in the hamlet of Santuario, feasting on handmade tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms. Wander the medieval walls of Rieti’s Old Town, stopping at hidden chapels and frescoed arches. Photograph the sunlit mosaics in the Church of Sant’Agostino.
Dine at a cozy trattoria tucked inside a 14th-century building, sampling truffles from nearby Monti Sabini. Watch local musicians perform folk ballads in an intimate courtyard. Return to your accommodation under a canopy of stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🧀Cheese and groceries | $8-18 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central Lazio location with easy access to Rome and Umbrian towns
- Rich history, architecture, and a relaxing pace of life
- Beautiful nearby lakes (Turano and Salto) and mountain scenery
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to big cities
- Less English-speaking staff in some rural spots; language can be a barrier
- Limited direct international flight options (access via 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?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Rieti
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of Rieti’s historic center with elegant buildings, a stone fountain, and golden hour light on the square.
Impressive medieval cathedral with a dramatic façade and serene interior—great for architectural shots.
Ancient gate and remnants of the medieval walls offering dramatic angles and framing.
Historic bridge with river views and reflections—ideal for golden hour photography.
Elevated terraces around the city offering panoramic vistas of the Sabine hills.
Renaissance-era church with a quiet interior and ornate details perfect for detail shots.
Food in Rieti
Rieti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pasta with guanciale, tomato, and pecorino romano; a signature Lazio dish from the Amatrice area.
Must-Try!
A classic Lazio dish featuring guanciale and pecorino; widely available in trattorie around Rieti.
Polenta topped with locally sourced sausage and mushroom ragù.
Firm sheep’s cheese from the Sabine area, often served with honey and bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the city center offering fresh produce, cheese, cured meats, bread, and street snacks.
Local bakeries and street vendors offering warm focaccia, pizza al taglio, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello with Buongiorno or Ciao; indoors greet with a handshake in formal settings.
Avoid loud conversations in churches and sacred spaces; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Meals are leisurely; wait to be seated, keep hands visible on the table, and say grazie when served.
Smoking is banned indoors; in outdoor spaces be mindful in busy evenings in the historic center.
Safety
Tipping in Rieti
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included; rounding up the bill or a small tip for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; small venues may prefer cash; some places add a small checkout fee.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blossoming trees; perfect for city walks and outdoor cafés.
Warm days; plan outdoor activities in the cooler mornings and evenings; hill towns and Terminillo offer respite.
Pleasant temperatures with harvest festivals; rich colors in the hills and around lakes Turano and Salto.
Cool to cold, with possible snow on Monte Terminillo; city stays cozy with indoor dining.
Rieti at Night
Hiking in Rieti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular ascent with forest trails and panoramic views; accessible by road from Rieti.
Scenic trails along the shores of Lago del Turano; great for easy hikes and birdwatching.
Forest and river canyon routes that offer shaded trails and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Rieti by plane.
Closest major airport with domestic and some international connections; about 1.5-2 hours by car from Rieti.
Italy’s largest airport with extensive international connections; provides access to Rieti via train or road.
Smaller international option serving central Italy; longer drive to Rieti.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time locals, families, and seniors; a smaller but growing presence of students and outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors drawn to the historic center, nature around Terminillo, and the lakes of Turano and Salto.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region loves football; local clubs and casual games are common in town squares and parks.
Seasonal sport with a small ski resort close to Rieti offering runs for all levels.
Road cycling and mountain biking in the Sabine hills with scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rieti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pasta dishes, grilled vegetables, and cheeses are vegetarian-friendly. Look for tomato-based sauces and mushroom risottos; ask to avoid meat stocks or lard.