For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to dedicate a page of this blog to my hometown: Tivoli.
I have called this place home for most of my life so I would love to share some tips from a true local. You can also find me on Instagram: @dianadelorenzi.
This is my guide for a perfect weekend in Tivoli, featuring the places I believe are truly unmissable (updated for 2026) and also where to eat.
A few years ago, together with my friend and talented filmmaker Matteo Ermeti, I created a short film dedicated to Tivoli. We tried to capture the essence of a place whose history stretches back thousands of years. The project received an enthusiastic response and was even featured in La Repubblica.
Not everyone knows that Tibur, the ancient name of Tivoli, is older than Rome itself.
Before we begin, a quick note for fellow travellers: I never leave for a trip without travel insurance. The policy I personally use on all my travels has always provided excellent support, offers worldwide coverage and remains one of the most affordable options available. You can find more information here: HEYMONDO.
In many ways, it offers a more authentic and relaxed experience than its famous neighbour, allowing visitors to discover extraordinary places without the crowds often found in larger destinations.
Tivoli boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the magnificent Villa d’Este, celebrated for its Renaissance gardens and fountains, and Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana), the residence built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD.
And yet, Tivoli is so much more than its UNESCO treasures. It is waterfalls, ancient temples, medieval alleyways, panoramic viewpoints, artisan gelato and stories waiting to be discovered around every corner.
Tivoli – HOW TO GET THERE
By car
Tivoli is about 30 minutes from Rome via the A24 motorway. Take the Tivoli exit on the Rome–L’Aquila motorway. Alternatively, you can drive along Via Tiburtina, although traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. One of the most convenient parking areas for exploring the historic centre is located in Piazza Massimo, close to the main attractions.
By train
Most trains depart from Roma Tiburtina station, while a few leave directly from Roma Termini. I recommend taking a regional train, which reaches Tivoli in approximately 40 minutes. Ticket prices generally start from around €2.60–€3 per person each way.
By bus
The COTRAL buses connecting Rome and Tivoli depart from Ponte Mammolo Metro Station (Line B). The fastest services travel via the A24 motorway and, traffic permitting, reach Tivoli in about 30–40 minutes. Bus tickets generally cost around €2–€3, depending on the route and fare selected.
Whichever option you choose, both trains and buses run frequently throughout the day, making Tivoli an easy destination to reach from Rome.
TIVOLI – WHAT TO SEE
Villa Gregoriana
If you arrive in the morning, I recommend starting your visit with Villa Gregoriana, one of Tivoli’s most spectacular attractions. The park lies between the right bank of the Aniene River and the ancient Roman Acropolis, where the remains of two Roman temples can still be admired.
Villa Gregoriana was created in the 19th century following major engineering works designed to prevent the devastating floods of the Aniene River by diverting its course.
Pope Gregory XVI, from whom the park takes its name, commissioned an extraordinary hydraulic project that gave rise to one of the highest artificial waterfalls in Europe, a truly remarkable feat of engineering for its time.
Tivoli was also the first city in Italy to benefit from hydroelectric power, thanks to the Acquoria power plant, inaugurated in 1886.
Among Tivoli’s historic sites, Villa Gregoriana is often the one that surprises visitors the most, perhaps because it is less famous internationally than Villa d’Este or Hadrian’s Villa.
The park offers a stunning nature trail featuring the remains of an ancient Roman villa, the old Acropolis, caves, dramatic cliffs and breathtaking landscapes, including the evocative Valley of Hell.
I recommend visiting in the morning, when the light is at its best and temperatures are usually more pleasant. The route includes several stairways and significant changes in elevation, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water.
A complete visit usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
The standard admission ticket currently costs €10.
SUMMER TIMES – from Tuesday to Sunday 10.00 – 19.00 (last entry 1 hour before closing).
WINTER HOURS – from Tuesday to Sunday 10.00 -17.00 (last entry 1 hour before closing).
From December to February the park is closed, you can check the website HERE.
THE HISTORICAL CENTER
After lunch (you’ll find my favourite places to eat in Tivoli below), take some time to get lost in the city’s ancient streets.
As you leave Villa Gregoriana, you will find yourself in the historic heart of Tivoli, where the remains of the ancient Roman settlement blend seamlessly with centuries of medieval history.
In the old town, it often feels as though time has stood still. The sound of dishes coming from open windows, laundry swaying overhead and children playing freely through the narrow alleys create an atmosphere that is increasingly rare to find.
I recommend wandering along Via San Valerio, reaching the Cathedral of San Lorenzo (the Duomo) and the nearby Mensa Ponderaria, an ancient Roman public weighing station where official weights and measures were once kept.
From there, continue uphill towards Piazza Campitelli before strolling down to admire the beautiful Gothic House (Casa Gotica), one of Tivoli’s most fascinating medieval landmarks.
The pedestrian stretch between Piazza Campitelli and the Gothic House is one of the most picturesque corners of the historic centre, offering charming stone buildings, flower-filled balconies and beautiful views over the surrounding rooftops.
Villa D’ESTE
As the sun begins to set and the light turns golden, it is time to visit my absolute favourite place in Tivoli: Villa d’Este.
Commissioned by Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este and designed by the architect Pirro Ligorio, the villa was completed in the second half of the 16th century and is considered one of the finest masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance garden.
After admiring the magnificent frescoed rooms of the palace, step outside into an enchanting world of terraces, fountains, water features and lush gardens.
Among the most famous attractions are the Hundred Fountains (Fontane dei Cento Cannelletti), the spectacular Dragon Fountain, and the renowned Organ Fountain, which uses an ingenious hydraulic mechanism to produce music through water-powered organ pipes.
Several times a day, the Organ Fountain comes to life, astonishing visitors with a system conceived centuries ago that still functions today.
Take your time to wander through the gardens and, if possible, bring a book and find a quiet corner to relax while waiting for sunset. The atmosphere at this time of day is truly magical.
Admission: €15 standard ticket.
Recommended visit duration: approximately 2 hours.
Summer opening hours: generally from 8:45 a.m. until 7:45 p.m., with last admission one hour before closing.
Winter opening hours: closing times vary throughout the season. Last admission is always one hour before closing, so it is advisable to check the official website before your visit for the most up-to-date timetable.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Villa d’Este is one of the most extraordinary examples of Renaissance landscape design in the world and an unmissable stop during any visit to Tivoli.
VILLA ADRIANA
The following morning, it is time to take a step back into Ancient Rome with a visit to Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana).
Please note: this is the only UNESCO site in Tivoli that is located outside the historic centre, in the district that today bears the same name, Villa Adriana.
To reach the site, I recommend travelling by car or taxi. Public transport is available, but services are less frequent and may require a walk to the entrance.
Built by Emperor Hadrian during the 2nd century AD, the villa covered an immense area of more than 100 hectares and served as an imperial retreat away from Rome.
Be prepared for a considerable amount of walking, much of it in open areas with limited shade. For this reason, I recommend visiting during the cooler hours of the day, especially in summer.
The ancient historian Spartianus wrote:
“Hadrian built a villa at Tivoli of such extraordinary magnificence that he reproduced there the most celebrated places of the provinces of the Empire, giving them names such as the Lyceum, the Academy, the Pecile and the Vale of Tempe.”
Over the centuries, countless architects, artists, archaeologists and scholars have visited the site to study its remarkable engineering and architectural innovations.
Among them was Le Corbusier, who sketched and documented parts of the villa during his travels in Italy.
More than a simple residence, Hadrian’s Villa was a true city in miniature, reflecting the emperor’s curiosity, creativity and passion for architecture.
Recommended visit duration: approximately 2–3 hours.
Admission: €15 standard ticket.
Summer opening hours: generally from 8:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., with last admission 90 minutes before closing.
Winter opening hours: opening times vary throughout the season, usually from around 8:30 a.m. until late afternoon. Last admission is 90 minutes before closing.
SANTUARIO D’ERCOLE VINCITORE
Known in antiquity as Tibur Superbum, as it was famously described by Virgil, Tivoli was an important crossroads between Latium and the regions of central Italy, thanks to its strategic position along the ancient routes connecting Rome with the Apennines.
It was here that one of the most impressive sacred complexes of Roman architecture was built: the Sanctuary of Hercules Victor (Santuario di Ercole Vincitore).
Constructed between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC, the sanctuary covered a vast area and was organised around three main elements: a monumental theatre, a large porticoed square that served as a commercial and public space, and the temple dedicated to Hercules, protector of merchants and travellers.
The complex was not only a place of worship but also an important economic and social centre for the region.
One of the highlights of a visit is the spectacular panoramic view stretching across the Roman countryside. On clear days, it is even possible to spot the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica on the horizon, together with the skyline of Rome.
Admission: €10 standard ticket, or a combined ticket for Villa d’Este, Hadrian’s Villa and the Sanctuary of Hercules Victor is usually available for approximately €30.
Opening hours vary throughout the year, so it is advisable to check the official website before your visit.
The Rocca Pia and the Roman Amphitheater of Bleso
Other noteworthy attractions in Tivoli include Rocca Pia and the Roman Amphitheatre of Bleso.
Both are located near Piazza Garibaldi, one of the city’s main squares and a convenient starting point for exploring the historic centre.
Built in 1461 by Pope Pius II, Rocca Pia is an imposing fortress that dominates the entrance to the old town. Originally constructed to strengthen papal authority and defend the city, it later served various functions over the centuries, including that of a military fortress and, more recently, a prison.
After years of closure, the fortress was returned to the municipality and reopened to visitors, allowing the public to once again explore one of Tivoli’s most iconic landmarks. At its summit flies the blue and amaranth flag, the historic symbol of the city.
Just a short distance away are the remains of the Roman Amphitheatre of Bleso, an ancient structure dating back to the Roman era that once hosted public spectacles and performances.
Rocca Pia is generally open on weekends and public holidays, often with free admission, although opening times may vary depending on events and restoration activities.
The Amphitheatre of Bleso is currently not regularly open to visitors, but its remains can still be viewed from the surrounding area.
TIVOLI – where to eat
Below is a short list of my favourite places to enjoy the local cuisine.
I would like to point out that these are all places I have visited personally and recently. I only recommend restaurants and cafés that I have experienced first-hand, as I believe the best suggestions come from genuine experience.
With one exception, I have chosen venues located in the historic centre, making them easy to reach while exploring Tivoli’s main attractions.
Whether you are looking for a traditional meal, a quick bite or a relaxing coffee break, these are the places I would happily recommend to a friend visiting my city.
GLAM & Piccolo GLAM:
GLAM is a vibrant all-day venue located in the heart of Tivoli, in Piazza Garibaldi, just a short walk from Villa d’Este.
I should mention that I am a little biased when it comes to this place. It is a project I have seen grow from an idea into a successful reality, and my partner Luca is one of the owners as well as the master gelato maker.
That said, what I genuinely appreciate about GLAM is its ambition to offer something different to the city: a welcoming and contemporary space that combines quality food, creativity and flexibility throughout the day.
Whether you are stopping by for breakfast, lunch, an aperitivo, dinner or simply a sweet treat, you will find a wide range of options, including Pinsa Romana, poke bowls, burgers, homemade pasta dishes and artisan gelato.
Speaking of gelato, it is undoubtedly one of the highlights. It has received recognition from Gambero Rosso, and many visitors have told me it was among the best gelato they tasted during their travels in Italy.
Gluten-free and vegan options are also available, making it a great choice for a variety of dietary needs.
If you are looking for a place that captures Tivoli’s modern and dynamic side while remaining deeply rooted in quality and craftsmanship, GLAM is well worth a visit.
- GLAM: Tivoli, Piazza Garibaldi 12 – 0774705377 – Book online HERE
PICCOLO GLAM:
in June 2025, a second location also opened in the oldest part of the city, just steps away from Villa Gregoriana: Piccolo Glam. It offers the same delights as the original Glam — including our award-winning gelato recognized by Gambero Rosso, delicious aperitifs, tasty dinner options, and much more in a romantic and historic location.
- Piccolo GLAM: Tivoli, Piazza Palatina 14 – 0774/285530 – Book online HERE
La Fornarina Restaurant:
if you are looking for a restaurant that agrees with everyone, this is the right place. From pizza to first and second courses, everything is delicious. Located in one of the historic squares of the city, you will feel like you are in Trastevere.
- Ape 50: street food restaurant that has become famous for its offering of artisanal fried foods (the supplì and Ascoli olives are absolutely recommended). It has recently changed management and the design has been carefully renovated. The watchword is craftsmanship!
- La Sibilla Restaurant: an incredible location at the foot of a temple of Ancient Rome. Refined environment that tells the story of centuries of activity. The oldest wisteria in Europe creates the perfect setting for a spring lunch.
- Il Ciocco Restaurant: a terrace overlooking Villa Gregoriana. With a moment you are catapulted into a fairytale dimension between incredible views and scenarios carved into the rock. When I’m here I love to enjoy a good wood-fired pizza.
- Osteria La Briciola: out of town but a real sensory experience. Honestly it is one of the best cuisines I have ever tried. Don’t forget the desserts, they are sublime!
- Alfredo alla Scaletta Restaurant: historic restaurant in the city in the style of the Roman taverns of Trastevere. Home-made cuisine not to be missed: fresh tagliolini with cheese and pepper, baked potatoes, straw and hay pasta and chicory with anchovies.
Pubs, wine bars & sandwich shops:
- Enoteca Gadì: if you are looking for a place for an aperitif, this is the right place. A winery among the richest in Lazio. It is the place where I often meet with my friends to taste a good glass in the company of a platter of local products.
- Black Sheep Tivoli Pub: the perfect address if you want to share a good beer and a sandwich with friends. A pub overlooking one of the most beautiful views in town with a really super friendly staff.
- Pub Public House: a corner of Scotland in Tivoli, the perfect winter retreat.
- Paninoteca da Pippo: a real institution in the city. If it is the most famous sandwich shop in Lazio there is a reason: the best sandwiches I have ever eaten. Rustic and folkloric atmosphere, with the atmosphere of beautiful and good things that are lost over time, it is a take away. My favorite is the Sfizioso!
Weekend in Tivoli: the sunset advice
For one final sunset to remember, I recommend driving to the Sanctuary of Quintiliolo, perched on the hills overlooking Tivoli.
The view that unfolds before you is truly breathtaking: the Great Waterfall of Villa Gregoriana, the historic centre of Tivoli, the waters of the Aniene River winding through the valley, and, on clear days, the skyline of Rome stretching across the horizon.
It is one of those places that captures the essence of Tivoli at a glance, bringing together nature, history and landscape in a single unforgettable panorama.
Take a moment to slow down, enjoy the silence and watch the colours of the sunset transform the valley below.
It is the perfect farewell to Tivoli and a memory you will carry with you long after your journey has ended.
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