ROSP9 - Tivoli, enroute to Sorrento

On this Tivoli tour enroute to Rome, immerse yourself in the stunning beauty and rich history of one of Italy’s most charming towns, located just outside of Rome. Famous for its grand villas and lush gardens, Tivoli is the perfect stop between Sorrento and Rome. This half-day tour will take you to explore the breathtaking Villa d ‘Este and the majestic Villa Adriana (Hadrian’s Villa), both UNESCO World Heritage sites, providing a fascinating glimpse into Italy's artistic, architectural, and natural heritage before continuing your journey to Rome.

Your day begins with a pick-up from your Sorrento hotel or designated meeting point. As you leave Sorrento, enjoy a scenic drive along the Sorrentine Peninsula, with views of the sparkling Bay of Naples and the beautiful countryside leading toward the town of Tivoli. The drive will be comfortable and relaxing, offering a preview of the landscapes that you will soon explore in Tivoli.

Villa d ‘Este – A Masterpiece of Renaissance Gardens

The first stop on your Tivoli tour is the stunning Villa d ‘Este, known for its extraordinary Renaissance gardens and elaborate fountains. Built in the 16th century for the noble Cardinal Ippolito II d ‘Este, the villa is a true masterpiece of Italian garden design.

Key highlights of Villa d ‘Este include:

The Fountain of Neptune: A grand, tiered fountain surrounded by lush greenery and sculptures; this is one of the most iconic features of the garden.

The Hundred Fountains: A stunning display of fountains cascading down terraces, creating a beautiful and tranquil atmosphere.

The Oval Fountain: A striking geometric design featuring a central fountain surrounded by intricate pathways and gardens.

The Gardens: The meticulously designed gardens offer beautiful walking paths, lush greenery, and views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Villa Adriana (Hadrian’s Villa) – Imperial Splendour

After exploring Villa d ‘Este, your next stop is Villa Adriana, the former summer residence of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. This vast complex of ruins was once a luxurious retreat, covering nearly 250 acres. The villa reflects the grandeur and opulence of the Roman Empire during Hadrian's reign and is known for its sophisticated architectural design and innovative features.

Key highlights of Villa Adriana include:

The Canopus: A large, rectangular pool surrounded by columns and statues, inspired by the ancient Egyptian town of Canopus.

The Teatro Marittimo: An island villa with a circular pond, built as a private retreat for Hadrian to escape the stresses of court life.

The Great Hall: A large, open space that was once the centre of social activity in the villa.

The Throne Room: A room with grand architecture that may have been used for imperial ceremonies and receptions.

After your time exploring the exquisite Villa d ‘Este and the monumental Villa Adriana, you will continue your journey to Rome. Your driver will drop you off at your Rome hotel, Rome airport, or train station, marking the end of your enriching day exploring Tivoli.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty, offering a perfect and convenient stop enroute to Rome. Whether you’re interested in Renaissance gardens, ancient Roman villas, or simply exploring the beauty of Tivoli, this tour is a must-do on your Italian adventure.