Although the town of Tarquinia is almost unknown to most travelers, those like me who grew up in Rome have heard of it from an early age.
Already the name covers the place with an aura of prestige: two of the first seven legendary kings of Rome were called “Tarquinius”. Both belonged to the Etruscan people, who had great power in Italy before the Roman conquests.
In fact, among the best things to do in Taruinia is to see the Archaeological Museum and Necropolis, which tell the story of the customs of the Etruscans, a civilization from which the entire West inherited a great deal.
We visited the historic center of the town as well as the surrounding area several times to discover its archaeological riches. Then we made friends with a couple who have a house in Marina di Tarquinia. Thus we discovered the beauties of the waterfront and pine forests, destinations where one could spend not only a day but an entire summer together with the whole family.
In this post, I will share with you all the beauties of this area, which are excellent reasons to visit Tarquinia, a hidden gem of northern Lazio.
15 Best Things to Do in Tarquinia
1. Explore the Etruscan Tombs
The Necropolis of Tarquinia (or Monterozzi Necropolis) ranks among the most significant and best-preserved sites of ancient Etruscan civilization. UNESCO has declared it, along with the Etruscan Necropolis in Cerveteri, a World Heritage Site. Located within the 200-hectare Monterozzi area, which stretches across the hills adjacent to the city, the necropolis boasts more than 6,000 tombs. Most of these tombs date from the 7th to the 3rd centuries BC.
If you want to enjoy the visit, I recommend doing it in the early morning hours, avoiding the hottest hours. I was very excited to walk outdoors and explore the tomb-caves without hurrying.
Artisans carved the tombs into the rock, decorating them with frescoes and bas-reliefs that depict daily life, religious ceremonies, and myths of the ancient Etruscan civilization. Among the most notable tombs are the Tomb of the Leopards, the Tomb of Hunting and Fishing, and the Tomb of the Warrior. These Etruscan tombs in Tarquinia display some of the most important and best-preserved examples of Etruscan painting.
Timetable and Tickets:
Winter Schedule (November 1 – March 25): Open daily, except Mondays, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last admission at 4:00 p.m.).
Summer Schedule (March 26 – September 15): Open daily, except Mondays, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (last admission at 6:30 p.m.).
Tickets are €10 and include visits to both the necropolis and the National Archaeological Museum of Tarquinia.
2. Visit the National Archeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum of Tarquinia, nestled in the historic center of this quiet coastal town north of Rome, focuses on the preservation of artifacts from the Monterozzi necropolis.
The elegant Renaissance building, Palazzo Vitelleschi, houses the museum. Spread over three floors, the museum organizes its exhibits in chronological order, offering visitors an immersive walk through history.
As one of the main Etruscan museums in Italy, it boasts a vast collection of objects, including ceramics, jewelry, weapons, and statues.
With its extensive collection of artifacts and strategic location in the heart of the city, the National Archaeological Museum of Tarquinia is a must-visit destination for anyone eager to delve into the history and culture of ancient Etruscan civilization.
I’ve visited it more than once because not only am I passionate about Etruscan history, but also because the Renaissance palace that hosts the exhibition is stunning and inviting. The view from the upper floors is breathtaking. One of the most famous pieces is the Winged Horses from a temple, but I appreciated the jewelry section more, true masterpieces of goldsmithing.
3. Discover the historic center of Tarquinia
The historic center of Tarquinia sits atop a hill, encircled by the ancient city walls that once protected its inhabitants from Celtic and Roman raids.
At the heart of the old town, Piazza Cavour unfolds as a spacious, tree-lined square. Cafes and restaurants border it, inviting visitors to savor local cuisine and immerse themselves in the downtown atmosphere.
Key attractions in the old town include the Tarquinia Cathedral, the Church of Santa Maria in Castello, and the Church of San Martino, each a testament to the area’s rich historical legacy.
The thing I love most about this hilltop town is the view: on one side there’s the Tyrrhenian Sea, on the other, the Lazio countryside.
4. Visit the Tarquinia Cathedral
Also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, this imposing Romanesque-style building stands in Piazza Duomo. Its white marble facade showcases fine medieval architecture, while inside, it houses valuable works of art, including frescoes and paintings by local artists.
5. Explore the Church of Santa Maria in Castello
Sitting at one of the city’s highest points, this church offers not just a visit to the structure but also stunning views of the Marta Valley and the surrounding countryside. Inside, visitors can admire the Cosmati decorations, the baptismal font, and the ciborium.
6. Discover the Church of San Martino
The oldest religious building in town, located on the street bearing its name, features a Romanesque style. Its stone facade, marked by an ornate portal and rose window, encloses medieval frescoes, sculptures, and paintings that depict the saint after whom the church is named.
7. Lido di Tarquinia (the beach)
The beach at Tarquinia is quite wide and welcoming. I don’t consider it better than other beaches near Rome, especially the water’s purity isn’t great, although it is swimmable. However, I appreciate the fact that it is off the beaten path, and it is frequented mostly by locals.
There’s a long seafront promenade that runs along the entire beach where we walked in the evenings enjoying an ice cream: a real treat.
The nearest beach to town is Lido di Tarquinia. It features 7 kilometers of sand and has many beach clubs offering beach equipment, showers, changing rooms, toilets, and bistros where we enjoy seafood or an aperitivo at sunset.
If you’re visiting with teenagers, consider that at beach clubs, you will find beach volleyball courts, table football, ping pong, and billiards.
In addition, some of these venues organize theme nights with music and DJ sets, beach parties, and concerts.
On the other hand, for families with children, there are beach clubs that offer activities for the little ones, such as dedicated areas with slides, swings, and other recreational facilities.
The best beach clubs for families in Tarquinia are:
- Tibidabo
- Mirage Beach
8. Relax at Piscine San Giorgio Beach
Just south of Lido di Tarquinia is the part of the beach our friends recommended we visit: the Piscine San Giorgio (St. George’s Pools).
It’s named this way because the shape of the shore features many small indentations that create a sort of pools.
This beach is not very crowded and is surrounded by dense pine forests, which is the feature we loved the most.
9. Try local dishes
Traditional dishes in Tarquinia are often passed down through generations and showcase the creativity, healthfulness, and simplicity of peasant cuisine. Acquacotta, a vegetable and potato soup with homemade bread, is a classic dish made with seasonal vegetables and enjoyed by farmers and cowherds. Wild asparagus, herbs, and mushrooms are frequently used to add depth of flavor to dishes, while meats from Maremma cows and calves, as well as wild boar and game, are celebrated in hearty stews and roasted dishes.
Typical Tarquinia desserts are often simple and tied to religious festivals, including jam tarts, Easter pizza with cinnamon, wine donuts (baked), and Christmas panpepati cakes made with dried fruit and honey.
In the restaurants, you will find traditional Roman pasta dishes along with seafood dishes such as pasta alle vongole and pasta allo scoglio.
10. Eat out
In the historic center of Tarquinia, alongside many historic buildings, you’ll find a vibrant selection of bars, restaurants, taverns, and pubs for dining or enjoying an aperitivo. Let’s dive into the best spots for a refreshing drink, a spritz, or an excellent glass of wine paired with a snack.
Il Grappolo Wine Bar – Il Grappolo, the most popular wine bar in Tarquinia, has won over locals with the quality of its offerings. Enjoy a glass of wine alongside a typical cutting board (tagliere) featuring samples of cheeses, cured meats, and mixed bruschetta. The cutting board with hand-cut prosciutto is a top choice!
Capolinea Café – For those seeking a good coffee with a view in Tarquinia, head to Capolinea. Situated at the end of Corso Alighieri, the main street in the historic center, this café offers an inviting ambiance.
Metodo – Metodo stands out as Tarquinia’s nightlife hub, boasting the town’s best cocktails, possibly paired with a fine gourmet dinner. The venue’s style is urban and informal, inviting a relaxed experience.
Old Station – Old Station presents a pub with a medieval vibe, featuring stone walls and vaulted ceilings. Ideal for those craving a beer and a sandwich, the pub also serves appetizers, main courses, and desserts.
Therra – A short stroll from the Archaeological Museum, Therra ranks among Tarquinia’s most beloved taverns. Situated right in the historic center, anything you order here promises to be excellent. From typical Lazio dishes like homemade pasta all’amatriciana and cacio e pepe to grilled meats and sophisticated desserts, the quality of food is complemented by reasonable prices. Therefore, dining at this osteria is a must-do in Tarquinia.
11. Adventure Park “Riva dei Tarquini”
One of the favorite leisure activities of local families with children is the Parco Avventura Riva dei Tarquini. We haven’t been there because our daughter was too young, but we’ll return this year now that she’s the right age, because it seems really fun.
The park features around ten adventure trails, categorized by age (and height), starting from 2 years old. Park staff members demonstrate how to use ropes, platforms, and climbing walls. Then, children enjoy a great time (with harnesses and safety nets, of course). The whole family will experience an alternative, fun-filled day. This is one of the best things to do in Tarquinia for those traveling with children.
12. See Alpacas
Families like ours, with children who love animals, will find a pleasant and unexpected surprise here in Tarquinia.
Piani degli Alpaca, the largest alpaca farm in Italy, is nestled between the towns of Tarquinia and Montalto di Castro. You’ll have the chance to tour the facility and spend time with these animals. During the visit, guests meet these special creatures and learn about their history and habits.
Alpacas originate from the Andes Mountains in South America and are famous for their soft, warm wool, which craftsmen use to produce high-quality textiles. Here is an idea for spending a fun day near Rome with kids.
13. Visit the Saline Nature Reserve
The Saline Nature Reserve, a name denoting a protected natural area of significant ecological importance, lies on the coast between the cities of Tarquinia and Montalto di Castro. This reserve encompasses a complex of brackish lagoons, canals, reed beds, and sand dunes. Its diverse flora makes it an ideal habitat for many species of waterfowl, including the pink flamingo, black-winged stilt, and lapwing.
The Ramsar Convention declared the Tarquinia Saline Nature Reserve a wetland of international importance in 1980. It serves as a crucial wintering site for migratory birds, attracting bird watchers.
We visited here and walked along the reserve’s trail to admire the area’s fauna and flora.
In summer, it can get very challenging walking under the burning sun, I advise you to come here inthe early morning.
14. Experience the Festival of Our Lady of Valverde:
The Festival of Our Lady of Valverde stands as one of Tarquinia’s premier religious and cultural events, observed annually on May 15th.
Its roots delve deep into history, tracing back at least to the 15th century. Central to the festivities is the revered figure of Our Lady of Valverde, believed to have been honored since medieval times in a church perched atop the hill overlooking Tarquinia.
The commencement of the celebration unfolds on the evening of May 14th, with a solemn procession carrying the Virgin’s statue from the hillside church to the Church of San Pancrazio nestled within Tarquinia’s historic center.
The following day, May 15th, marks the feast day itself, featuring a poignant mass at the Church of San Pancrazio, succeeded by a grand procession winding through the labyrinthine streets, accompanied by melodious tunes, heartfelt hymns, and vibrant fireworks.
Throughout the festival, Tarquinia’s historic streets burst to life, bedecked with fluttering flags, fragrant blooms, and dazzling illuminations.
15. Bike along Marta River
Biking along the Marta River ranks as one of the most adventurous activities in Tarquinia. This excursion unveils the beauty of the Marta River Valley through a bicycle route that meanders along the river, passing peasant landscapes and ancient medieval villages.
The path extends 135 km, from the river’s source in Lake Bolsena to its mouth in Tarquinia, traversing through Tuscania and Monte Romano, countryside villages unique to Italy. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the agricultural landscape and forests along the river.
Along the way, you can delve into the historic centers of towns like Tuscania and Monte Romano, discovering well-preserved medieval structures with Etruscan and Roman influences. The route, easy and accessible for non-experts, features signposts, rest areas, and information boards.
The Marta River is a haven for rare and uncommon species such as magpies, gray crows, buzzards, kites, and the rare hen harrier, with the possibility of spotting foxes, hedgehogs, porcupines, and young boars on denser paths.
16. Visit a Vineyard
Wine enthusiasts will find Tarquinia a delightful destination. Beyond savoring a glass of wine in a venue in the historic center (like Namo Ristobottega), you can immerse yourself in a vineyard experience a few hundred meters from the sea.
The organic winery Etruscaia, established about 20 years ago almost by coincidence, offers tours through its cellars and vineyard, complemented by tastings and dinners, starting with a sparkling white on the sea-view terrace.
17. Discover Tarquinia’s Nightlife
For those interested in Tarquinia’s nightlife, the evening starts with aperitifs at clubs (like Old Station) or beach venues such as Tibidabo Beach Club, where you can enjoy fantastic drinks on the beach at sunset. Il Galeone, a popular beach club for dinner and drink parties with live music; and Il Porticciolo, perfect for an aperitivo and theme parties by the sea.
For music and fun beyond aperitifs, don’t miss Gravisca, a bustling disco where you can dance until dawn, and Boa Sorte, notable as both a cocktail bar and a disco where the music volume increases and the dance floor comes alive as the evening progresses. El Blanco is another beach club that entertains with music and DJ sets.
During off-summer months, nightlife thrives at venues like Me.To.Do, which offers great food, music, cocktails, and dancing, and Droid, known for its famous guest musicians and DJ sets, attracting many young people.
Tips for visiting Tarquinia
Best time of the year to visit Tarquinia
Tarquinia is located in an unexplored part of Lazio, the Tuscia region, just a handful of kilometers from the Tirrena Coast with its wide sandy beaches.
This makes Tarquinia one of the best destinations in Italy in summer.
The presence of archaeological sites, a large museum of national significance, and many ancient buildings make Tarquinia appreciable throughout the year.
How to get to Tarquinia from Rome
If you travel by your own car, you can reach Tarquinia from Rome in about an hour. Take either the Via Aurelia state road (watching out for speed cameras) or the Rome-Civitavecchia highway (for the latter there is a toll of a few euros).
If you move by public transportation, take a Trenitalia regional train from Rome to Tarquinia and then a local bus to the historic center or to the beach.
Know a bit of history of Tarquinia
Tarquinia’s roots stretch back to Etruscan times, when the city, known as Tarkna, thrived as a vital hub of trade and culture within Etruria. Renowned for its flourishing industries in ceramics, textiles, and metalwork, Tarquinia’s goods were sought after far and wide.
The Roman era brought further prosperity and monumental additions to Tarquinia’s landscape. Notable landmarks such as the church of Santa Maria di Castello and sturdy city walls bear testament to this period of growth and fortification, shielding the city from Celtic and Roman incursions.
Despite occasional conflicts, including clashes with Rome itself, Tarquinia gradually found a symbiotic relationship with its neighbors. So much so that it even spawned a royal Roman lineage, the Tarquins, hailing directly from the ancient city of Tarkna.
Following the decline of the Western Roman Empire, Tarquinia weathered waves of barbarian invasions, ultimately falling under Lombard rule in the 7th century. Subsequently, ecclesiastical governance prevailed, with Tarquinia being administered by bishops until the late 18th century.
The medieval period witnessed Tarquinia’s urban and architectural evolution, marked by the construction of grand religious edifices like the Cathedral of Saints Margaret and Martin, alongside opulent aristocratic palaces that still grace the historic center today.
The city’s name itself has undergone transformations over the centuries. Originating as “Tarkna” in Etruscan and Roman times, it later adopted the moniker “Corneto” during the Middle Ages, likely due to the proliferation of dogwood plants (corniolo in Italian) in the vicinity. In 1872, the name was hyphenated to Corneto-Tarquinia, before finally settling on the modern appellation we know today in 1922: Tarquinia.
Wrap-up
Having explored Tarquinia extensively, I can confidently say it’s a destination worth visiting. Its rich history, showcased in places like the National Archaeological Museum and the Etruscan Necropolis, offers a glimpse into ancient times. But it’s not just for history buffs; Tarquinia also provides a serene escape from city life, with charming farmhouses and local wineries to enjoy.
Families will find plenty of things to do in Tarquinia, from visiting beautiful beaches to exploring adventure parks as that in Riva dei Tarquini. The town’s beaches are sandy and spacious, perfect for relaxing or taking a dip in the sea.
In summary, Tarquinia is one of the best towns to visit near Rome, offering history, natural beauty, and family fun. If you’re considering a visit, don’t hesitate—this town has something special to offer every traveler.
