Free walking tours in Frascati and what to see

Must-sees

Frascati sits in the Castelli Romani hills south-east of Rome, and its viewpoints look out over the capital. Its best-known image is Villa Aldobrandini, a papal-era villa that dominates the town from above, with gardens and a water theatre. Below, Piazza Marconi and the cathedral of San Pietro form the centre, and the former Scuderie Aldobrandini stables house an exhibition space.

The town is famous for its white wine, tasted in the fraschette, simple taverns where you eat cured meats, porchetta and local bread. Above Frascati, among woods, lies the Tusculum archaeological park, with remains of the ancient city, a Roman theatre and wide views. The other Castelli, such as Grottaferrata, Marino, Castel Gandolfo and Nemi, are very close.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free tours in Frascati. What you can book is a private tour of the Castelli Romani, usually starting from Rome, which visits several towns with stops to take in the landscape and taste the wine. Many local wineries offer tastings, and there are walking routes up to Tusculum.

How long to spend

Half a day is enough for Frascati: the centre, the gardens of Villa Aldobrandini and lunch in a fraschetta. If you want to walk up to Tusculum or do a tasting, give it a full day. With two days you can tour other Castelli Romani, such as Castel Gandolfo by Lake Albano or Nemi. There is a direct train from Rome.

Where to stay

You can stay in the centre of Frascati, which has small hotels, guesthouses and apartments near the square and the station. In the surrounding hills there are villas and agriturismi among the vineyards, quiet if you have a car. Many travellers visit from Rome, but staying here lets you enjoy the town in the evening.