The timeless charm of the Castelli Romani, with its elegant hilltop towns, Renaissance villas, panoramic terraces, volcanic lakes, and authentic food and wine traditions. Frascati, Castel Gandolfo, Grottaferrata, Nemi and Albano reveal a more relaxed and genuine side of Lazio, rich in history, local flavors, and beautiful countryside views.
With this immersive journey, you will experience the atmosphere, heritage, and culinary excellence of one of the most fascinating areas just outside Rome.
Welcome to the charming region of the Castelli Romani, a land of vineyards, historic villas, and authentic culinary traditions.
Upon arrival at Rome airport, transfer to the elegant town of Frascati and check-in at Hotel Villa Flora.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional welcome dinner at a local restaurant, featuring the flavors of Lazio cuisine. The menu includes a selection of local cured meats and cheeses, a classic Roman pasta such as cacio e pepe or amatriciana, roasted meats with seasonal vegetables, and dessert served with a glass of renowned Frascati wine.
A warm and flavorful introduction to the gastronomic heritage of the Castelli Romani.
Overnight stay in Frascati.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before meeting your guide for a leisurely walk through the historic center of Frascati.
During the guided visit, you will explore elegant squares, scenic terraces, and charming streets that reflect the town’s aristocratic past. Frascati has long been a retreat for Roman nobility, known for its refined atmosphere and beautiful panoramic views over the Roman countryside.
The morning continues with a visit to the magnificent Villa Mondragone, one of the most important Renaissance villas in the region. Surrounded by gardens and historic architecture, the villa offers insight into the cultural and political life of the papal and noble families who once resided here.
In the afternoon, we head to the historic Cantina Imperatori, located among the vineyards of the Alban Hills.
Here, you will discover the centuries-old tradition of winemaking in the Castelli Romani during a guided visit to the cellar. Learn about the production of the famous Frascati Superiore and explore the fascinating technique of aging wine in terracotta amphorae — a practice that dates back to ancient Roman times.
The visit concludes with a wine tasting accompanied by a light lunch, offering the opportunity to savor local wines paired with traditional regional products.
Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
After breakfast, departure for the picturesque town of Castel Gandolfo, overlooking the beautiful volcanic waters of Lake Albano.
This historic village is famous as the summer residence of the Popes and offers one of the most scenic views in the region. During the guided visit, you will explore the elegant Apostolic Palace and its panoramic terraces, enjoying breathtaking views over the lake and surrounding hills.
Take time to stroll through the charming streets of the town, where history, religion, and tradition come together in a unique setting.
In the afternoon, we continue to Ariccia, a town celebrated for its rich gastronomic heritage.
Here, enjoy lunch at a traditional fraschetta, famous for its iconic porchetta and hearty local dishes that reflect the authentic flavors of Lazio.
Later, participate in a hands-on cooking class at the historic Cacciani Restaurant, where an experienced chef will guide you through the preparation of classic Roman recipes such as fresh pasta and traditional sauces.
The experience concludes with the tasting of the dishes prepared during the lesson — a perfect combination of learning, sharing, and enjoying local cuisine.
Return to the hotel in the evening.
After breakfast, departure for the historic town of Grottaferrata, home to the remarkable Abbey of San Nilo, one of the most important religious sites in the region.
Founded in the 11th century, the abbey preserves the Byzantine monastic tradition and represents a unique cultural and spiritual heritage. During the guided visit, you will explore the monastery complex and learn about its centuries-old history.
In the afternoon, we continue to the scenic countryside surrounding Villa Cavalletti, a historic estate located among vineyards and olive groves.
Here, guests will enjoy a guided tasting of local wines and extra virgin olive oil, discovering the agricultural traditions that have shaped the identity of the Castelli Romani for generations.
The experience includes a panoramic lunch overlooking the rolling hills of the region.
Later, we visit the charming village of Nemi, famous for its picturesque lake and traditional sweets. During our walk through the historic center, enjoy a tasting of the renowned wild strawberry cake, a true symbol of the area.
Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
After breakfast, departure for Rome, the Eternal City.
Guided walk through the historic center among monumental squares, ancient ruins, and Baroque fountains that tell the story of more than two thousand years of history. Lunch in a traditional Roman trattoria followed by skip-the-line entrance to the Colosseum, the iconic amphitheater symbol of ancient Rome.
Return to the Castelli Romani in the late afternoon.
Morning dedicated to the Tuscolo Archaeological Park, an ancient Latin city that became a retreat for Roman nobles.
Walking through woods and archaeological remains, we reach the Roman theatre, from which breathtaking views open over the Castelli Romani and the Roman countryside.
Visit to the Aldo Brandini Stables, where guests can experience the equestrian traditions of the region.
Panoramic lunch at Villa Grazioli, followed by a visit to the Pannini Gallery and free time in the center of Frascati for a tasting of local wines.
Return to the hotel in the afternoon.
After breakfast, departure for Albano Laziale, a town rich in Roman heritage.
Here, we visit the impressive Roman Cisternone, a remarkable underground structure considered one of the most extraordinary examples of hydraulic engineering from ancient Rome. Its monumental scale and excellent preservation make it a truly unique historical site.
Enjoy a relaxing walk along the shores of Lake Albano, surrounded by peaceful landscapes and scenic views.
In the afternoon, return to Frascati and enjoy some free time before the final celebration of the journey.
In the evening, gather for a memorable farewell dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant Sintesi, where traditional flavors of the Castelli Romani are reinterpreted with creativity and contemporary techniques.
The tasting menu offers a refined culinary experience, combining local ingredients, modern presentation, and exceptional service — a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Overnight stay.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Rome Fiumicino Airport for your return flight.
As your journey comes to an end, take with you the memories of authentic flavors, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes that make the Castelli Romani one of the most charming regions of Italy.
Goodbye and safe travels.