Best things to do in Lido di Ostia

Parco Archeologico di Ostia Antica, a large archaeological site, was once a harbor city of ancient Rome. Walk through the well-preserved ruins with millennia-old buildings, frescoes, and mosaics. You can buy a guidebook at the onsite shop. If you'd prefer a guided tour, arrange one with a tour company before your visit.

Wander through gardens steeped in history at Giardino di Ninfa, where you can see the remains of Ninfa, a city thought to be founded in the first century of the Roman republic. The town was inhabited until the 16th century and today is the site for a 105 hectare (259.4 acre) English-style garden. Amble past streams, ponds, flowers, and trees to see what remains of the city. Bird-lovers may notice that the garden is home to 152 species of bird. Ask about guided tours offered in various languages.

Meet an animatronic T. rex up close at Zoomarine. At this amusement park and zoo, whiz down waterslides, splash in pools, and ride the rollercoaster. Shows feature animals such as seals, parrots, and dolphins. On a more serious note, you can see in 4-D the world of a turtle struggling to survive in the polluted ocean. You can buy any forgotten swimming supplies on site. You may not bring in food and drinks, but there are restaurants and food kiosks.

Retreat to the peace and quiet of Isola Pedonale Lido di Ostia, a pedestrian street lined with bars, restaurants, and shopping. Without the noise of the cars, the street offers a perfect opportunity for a serene and leisurely stroll. With the beach on one side, the saltwater breeze provides a breath of fresh air from the summer heat. Cozy up at a beachfront cafe to enjoy a coffee overlooking the water. Browse through the small shops, or indulge in a sweet, creamy, authentic Italian ice cream.

Go for a relaxing and rejuvenating treatment right on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea at Victoria Regeneration Spa. In addition to providing magnificent sea views, this spa center offers a series of treatments and facilities beneficial for both body and mind. Take a dip in the salt-water swimming pool, soak in a hot tub, choose among a variety of massages and beautifying treatments, or spend time in the Turkish bath or Swedish sauna. You can make reservations online and either pick one of the package offers or fully customize your experience.

Take a trip into history at Museo Storico Piana delle Orme, a museum featuring exhibits on the agricultural life of the area and World War II. You will find machinery from the early 1900s, model planes and boats, children’s toys, vehicles, and much more. You can use the audio guide for more details, or just read the descriptions placed around the museum.

Thirteenth-century Castello Caetani was built as both a military fortress and a noble residence: here, you can glimpse the private and public life of medieval Lazio. Despite the fortress's large, 3 m (10 ft) thick exterior walls, Napoleon's army plundered it in the late 18th century, carrying away its valuables and furniture and turning the castle into a prison. Most restoration work was carried out nearly 100 years later. Visiting hours can be somewhat inconsistent, so it is best to check online or call first if you plan to visit.