Castles and Lakes (Driver Only/Self Touring)

Rome , Italy

Castles and Lakes (Driver Only/Self Touring)

Active

(1 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Roman countryside is one of the most beautiful, relaxing and peaceful areas of the surrounding area of Rome, and oftentimes underrated by the average tourist, but often sought after by discerning visitors seeking off the tourist beaten path treasures.
On this private tour from your accommodation in Rome you'll enjoy the Roman Countryside as you travel to Bracciano to visit the famous Renaissance Odescalchi Castle and admire its pristine Lake Bracciano, experience a culinary delight inside the ancient Medieval hilltop fortress of Ceri, and then explore the ancient and mysterious Etruscan civilization inside the Banditaccia Necropolis in Cerverteri.

This is as Tour By Car with only an English Speaking Driver (it does NOT include Tour Guides or Walking Tours).
Italian laws permits only licensed tour guides to accompany guests on foot to sightsee. To comply with these strict laws, Driver will wait for you with the vehicle while you SELF TOUR.

Available options

1 to 3 passengers

Deluxe Mercedes Benz Vehicle<br/>Pickup included

4 to 6 passengers

Deluxe Mercedes Benz Vehicle<br/>Pickup included

7 to 8 passengers

Deluxe Mercedes Benz Vehicle<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Deluxe Mercedes Benz Vehicle

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

English Speaking Professional Driver

Fuel surcharge

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This 16th-century castle is in unbelievable condition and still owned by the Odescalchi family. The castle became famous worldwide when American film star Tom Cruise married Katie Holmes at the castle in November 2006.
You will have the opportunity to tour the castle and its impressive rooms that were once the private quarters of Kings, Popes, and Lords of the Renaissance era.
Entry admission to Odescalchi Castle is currently 8.50 Euros per person. Tickets can be purchased upon visiting the site.

Stop 2

A drive to the lake shore will follow so that you can see the dazzling beauty of Bracciano Lake from the promenade along the beach.
Originally a volcanic crater, this one of the cleanest lakes in Italy due to the absence of motor boats and strict rules against pollution. Its beaches attract visitors who prefer to relax, swim, sail, canoe, and generally escape hustle and bustle of most crowded seaside beaches.

Ceri is a 13th-century town with fortified walls that gives it the appearance of a medieval fortress isolated on top of a steep hill of tufa, a type of limestone that is very common in Italy.
Its medieval past dominating the present becomes apparent the moment we arrive at the bottom of the hill. The only street that passes through the fortified wall and leads you into town is wide enough for just a single vehicle to pass through at a time. This rare traffic problem was resolved by installing two traffic lights: one at the entrance into the town, and one where the street ends in the main square. Enjoy a nice homemade lunch in one of the family-owned restaurants for a great taste of the real Italian Cusine.

This Sanctuary is a very special place for the locals. The Virgin Mary for whom this Sanctuary is named is known for her intercession and helping people who are experiencing difficulties.

Stop 5

The Banditaccia Necropolis is significant not only because it is the largest ancient necropolis in the Mediterranean area, but also because it contains some of the only examples of Etruscan residential architecture surviving to this day.
Although none of the Etruscan homes survived to this day, you can see the types of homes Etruscans lived in just by walking into their tombs! Considered permanent homes for the dead, the tombs were carved to resemble the interior of residential homes, lavishly designed with a gabled roof, crossbeam, stone couches, chairs, and other architectural details.
Entry admission to Cerveteri Baditaccia Etruscan Necropolis is currently €10 per person.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Admission fees and Entry Tickets Not Included

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Walking on uneven terrain is required in some areas

About Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.

Top Attractions

Colosseum

The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)

Vatican City

Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

Religious Half day €17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)

Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.

Architecture 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.

Pasta Vegetarian

Carbonara

A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.

Pasta Contains pork and eggs

Supplì

Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Snack Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)

Carciofi alla Romana

Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.

Vegetable Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park Biking along the Tiber River Rock climbing in the nearby mountains Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens Boating on Lake Albano Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting the Vatican Museums Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets

Getting there

By air

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina

By bus

Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Trastevere Monti Prancipio Testaccio

Day trips

Ostia Antica

30 km from Rome • Half day

An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.

Tivoli

30 km from Rome • Full day

A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.

Orvieto

120 km from Rome • Full day

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.

Festivals

Natale di Roma • April 21 Festa de' Noantri • July Rome Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots