Ancient Ostia (Ostia Antica)
Viale dei Romagnoli 717, Rome, Italy, 00119
One of Italy’s best-preserved archaeological sites, Ancient Ostia (Ostia Antica) was once a thriving port city home to roughly 50,000 inhabitants. As the Roman Empire expanded, Ostia was eventually abandoned and buried under silt as the course of the Tiber River changed. This layer of mud protected the town’s dwellings and commercial structures from the ravages of time, which is why the Ostia Antica archaeological park is considered by some to be the “better Pompeii."
The basics
There are a number of important sights in the Ostia Antica archaeological park, including the necropolis, the Baths of Neptune, the amphitheater, the Forum, the Collegiate Temple, and Via Casa di Diana, a main street lined with original apartment buildings and taverns. Given the historical importance of the port city and the collection in its archaeological museum, visiting on a private tour with in-depth explanation adds another layer to the experience. If visiting with kids, consider booking a family-friendly, small-group guided tour. The site is most often visited on half-day tours from Rome.
Things to know before you go
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, as the archaeological park is outdoors and the area gets hot in the summer.
- Ancient Ostia is quite close to Rome, making a half-day tour an easy side trip.
- It takes about 2.5 hours to visit the archaeological park with a guide on foot, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
How to get there
If you're not taking an Ostia tour that includes transportation from Rome, the best way to reach Ostia Antica is by train. Take Rome's metro to the Piramide stop, which is also the Roma Porta San Paolo train station. From there, you can take a train to Ostia Antica. (Following signs to Lido will take you to the right spot.)
When to get there
Ancient Ostia can get hot midday in summer. From June to October, visit in the early morning or late afternoon to beat the heat. No matter when you go, keep in mind that the site is outside—dress accordingly.
Visiting Ostia Beach
Modern Ostia, near the Ostia Antica site, is a popular resort town that’s perfect for a beach break. Visit the archaeological ruins in the cool morning hours, then relax on one of the town's beaches in the afternoon.
Ways to explore
Not far from central Rome, Ancient Ostia is a popular day trip from the Eternal City. Given its vast size and historical importance, the archaeological site is best experienced on a private or small-group tour with a guide who can help you decipher its key sights, including a necropolis, temples, and the Baths of Neptune. If you’re visiting with kids, consider booking a family-friendly tour with stories and activities for little ones. Many travelers get to Ancient Ostia on the train from Rome, though guided tours with transportation included are a seamless option.
Accessibility
The archaeological park has wheelchair-accessible routes, designated parking, and restrooms.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, as the park is outdoors and gets hot in the summer.
What to wear
Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes—touring Ancient Ostia on foot takes at least a couple of hours, and the ground can be uneven.
Not allowed
Drones, eating inside the archaeological area
Amenities
Restrooms, parking, cafeteria, audio guides
Address
Ancient Ostia is located about 40 minutes southwest of Rome near the Tyrrhenian Sea coastline. You can get there by both car and train, though the most convenient option is to book a guided tour that includes round-trip transportation from Rome.
Driving
From Rome, follow Via del Mare/SP8 southwest to Via dei Romagnoli, 717, until you reach the parking lot and ticket office. The drive is about 15 miles (24.5 kilometers) and takes about 40 minutes each way.
Public transportation
The train takes about 30 minutes to get from Rome to Ancient Ostia. Head to the Porta San Paolo station and take the Lido line to Ostia Antica. The archaeological park is a short walk from the station.
Best times to visit
Ancient Ostia can get hot in the middle of the day, so visit in the early morning to beat the heat and crowds.
Best days to visit
Save money by visiting Ancient Ostia on free admission days (the first Sunday of every month). Alternatively, go from Tuesday to Friday for smaller crowds.
Best months to visit
The open-air Ancient Ostia archaeological park is best visited from March to May, when Rome has minimal rain and mild spring temperatures.
Special events
The Ostia Antica Festival takes place every summer between June and September and features concerts and performances in the park’s ancient theater.
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