Picturesque Day tour of Tivoli, Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este
Escape Rome for the day with this one-of-a-kind tour of Tivoli. This delightful, mountaintop top town just outside of Rome is only a short and comfortable bus ride away.
There you will discover the relatively unknown yet beautiful Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este, as our local guide shares the rich history for both of these UNESCO world heritage sites.
Originally built as his country house, Emperor Hadrian (who ruled Rome from 117 to 138) would eventually govern the empire during the last years of his reign from there.
More recently however, the Republic of Italy owns this large Roman archaeological complex. The lavish landscape consists of many opulent pools, baths, fountains and classical Greek architecture.
Have some time to stroll around and enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading over to Villa d’Este, best known for its beautiful terraces. Some other highlights include: the Apartments of the Cardinal, the Gardens and the many elegant fountains – the Oval Fountain, the Hundred Fountains, Fountain of the Dragons, Fountain of the Owl, Organ, and Neptune, to name a few.
Look no further – this is your perfect little getaway from Rome.
itinerary- This enchanting day trip from Rome begins with a 40-minute bus ride to Hadrian’s Villa. The vastness of Hadrian’s estate is a sight that will surely impress. The Emperor chose to build his residence outside the city in a place rich in water, in order to build the famous Canopus, one of the most preserved sites left in the complex. The statues surrounding this pool of water create stunning reflections on its surface, beautifully surrounded by luscious green gardens.
- A short bus ride brings you to Tivoli town center – where you will have time to explore and enjoy lunch before the next walking tour.
- We will leave the alluring ruins of the 2nd century A.D. far behind as we travel on to the 14th century to our second destination, Villa d’Este - one of the most beautiful Renaissance villas in Italy. This splendid palace, with its extraordinary gardens filled with hundreds of fountains, will leave you feeling captivated. Bernini’s monumental Neptune’s Fountain is considered the most impressive, its water jets reaching a height of 10 meters. Not to say that the Central Fountain and the Oval Fountain won’t leave you equally in awe.
- On the bus ride back to the city, you will have some time to glance at all of your photos, as you reflect on one of the most beautiful and memorable day trips from Rome.
what's included- Bus from the meeting point to the Villas and back
- Admission fees
- Expert tour guide
- Group of 32 max
- Headsets
what's not included- Pick up and drop off
- Lunch
- Gratuities (optional)
meeting pointYour meeting point is at Via Cavour building 224 near the bus stop (take Metro CAVOUR stop on Line B). Please arrive 25 minutes before the start of your tour to check-in with a member of our staff.
ending pointSame location as the meeting point - Via Cavour 224 at the bus stop.
dress codeComfortable shoes!
accessibilityIf you or any member of your party has difficulty with mobility (uses crutches or a wheelchair, etc.), please contact us in advance. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Private tours are available to meet these needs, on request.