Imagine a day away from the bustling streets of Rome, wandering through lush gardens and medieval streets, while feeling completely relaxed thanks to private comfort and personal touches. That’s what this private day trip offers — a chance to see some of Italy’s most enchanting spots without the crowds and with the freedom to explore at your own pace.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the knowledgeable guide Simone, who keeps things interesting and fun, a stunning Garden of Ninfa praised for its poetic charm, and the authentic medieval atmosphere of Sermoneta. Plus, the onboard Wi-Fi and bottled drinks mean you stay connected and refreshed throughout.

The only thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves some walking and may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues or the elderly. But if you love history, gardens, and charming villages, this trip fits the bill perfectly. It’s ideal for those craving a personalized, scenic escape from Rome with a mix of natural beauty and medieval intrigue.

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Key Points

Private experience tailored to your pace and interests
Includes transport, Wi-Fi, and drinks for a hassle-free day
Visits to Ninfa Gardens and Sermoneta Castle with optional extra tickets
Flexible schedule, with time to explore and relax
Highly rated guides known for their knowledge and friendliness
Perfect for lovers of history, gardens, and authentic Italian villages

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Escape from Rome

If you’re seeking a break from the crowded tourist sites in Rome, this day trip offers a peaceful, scenic alternative. Designed as a private experience, it provides the flexibility to choose how long you spend at each site, making it ideal for those who appreciate a customized adventure. From the moment you’re picked up at Cinecittà Metro station, you’re on your way into Italy’s beautiful countryside, away from the hustle and bustle.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of natural beauty and historical charm. The Garden of Ninfa is often described as poetic — with its ruins and exotic plants creating a landscape that many travelers call an “artist’s dream.” Jeremy, one of the reviewers, mentions that the gardens are “astonishing,” and the nearby Sermoneta with its castle is a “delightful old hill town.”

On top of that, the personalized service shines through in the reviews, with guests praising guides like Simone for their helpfulness and impressive knowledge. He’s noted for keeping the group organized and making sure everyone stays on schedule, which adds a layer of comfort for travelers who dislike feeling rushed.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Cinecittà Metro Station

Your day begins at 9:00 AM, where your driver awaits at the Cinecittà Metro station. A clearly marked meeting point ensures no stress before departure. Optional hotel pickups are available if you want more convenience.

First Stop: Garden of Ninfa

Arriving approximately two hours later, you get to explore one of Italy’s most admired botanical gardens. The Garden of Ninfa, with its ruins and exotic plant collection, offers countless photo opportunities and peaceful spots for reflection. Reviewers like Michelle describe Ninfa as “poetry,” emphasizing its artistic appeal. You’ll see medieval ruins intertwined with lush greenery, creating a landscape that feels almost enchanted.

The garden has scheduled English tours at 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM, so check your ticket timings carefully. Remember, tickets are €15 each, so factoring that into your budget is worth it. Our guide or the tour company can help you secure tickets in advance, ensuring you won’t miss out.

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Second Stop: Sermoneta

Next, you head to the hilltop village of Sermoneta. Here, you’ll have around two hours to stroll cobbled streets, admire the medieval architecture, or visit the famous Sermoneta Castle. The castle ticket costs €8.25, and many guests consider it a must-see to connect with Italy’s Borgia intrigues and medieval history.

Guests like Andrea mention how fun and attentive their guide “Simi” was, making the visit both informative and enjoyable. You might want to grab a local lunch or buy souvenirs as you absorb the laid-back, authentic atmosphere of this charming town.

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Return to Rome

After a relaxed exploration, your driver takes you back to Cinecittà, arriving at around 4:30 PM. The entire experience runs approximately 7.5 hours, balancing sightseeing with downtime.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are roundtrip transport from Rome, pickup and drop-off at Cinecittà, Wi-Fi on board, bottled water, Coca-Cola, and a small chocolate treat. The private tour setup means you won’t be jostling with strangers, and the driver/guide Simone is often praised for his helpfulness and knowledge.

Extras, like tickets to Ninfa Gardens (€15) and Sermoneta Castle (€8.25), are paid separately. Lunch isn’t included but there’s ample opportunity to enjoy local eateries in Sermoneta.

Not included are hotel pickup (though optional), lunch, and entrance tickets, so it’s wise to plan ahead. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for Ninfa and the castle, to avoid disappointment.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to larger group tours, this private experience costs a bit more but offers significant advantages. The personalized pace and attention make it worth it for those who want flexibility and comfort. The scenic routes, combined with the knowledgeable guides, turn what could be a simple visit into an enriching day.

Guests like Michelle and Jeremy rave about Simone’s helpfulness and knowledge, making it clear that having a passionate guide enhances the experience. The carefully curated stops at Ninfa and Sermoneta provide a perfect balance of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making this a well-rounded excursion.

The inclusion of Wi-Fi and bottled drinks on the journey ensures you stay refreshed and connected, turning travel time into part of the enjoyment rather than an inconvenience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a personalized, relaxed pace and are eager to see Italy’s lesser-known gems. It’s ideal for those who love botanical gardens, medieval villages, and castles with a touch of history and romance.

It’s also a great choice if you prefer comfort and flexibility over large group reactions. If you’re traveling with someone who has mobility issues, note that the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments. However, for most able travelers, it offers a fantastic, authentic taste of Lazio outside the busy city of Rome.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning it’s just your group and your guide, providing a more personalized experience.

What is the meeting point?
You meet your driver at the Cinecittà Metro station exit, clearly marked with the Cinecittà sign, at 9:00 AM.

Are tickets to Ninfa and Sermoneta Castle included?
No, tickets are purchased separately (€15 for Ninfa and €8.25 for Sermoneta Castle), but the tour provider can help you arrange those in advance.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included, but you’ll have plenty of time in Sermoneta to find a local restaurant or a café.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with about two hours at each main stop and travel time in between.

Can I bring children or elderly family members?
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or over 95 years old, children who can walk comfortably will enjoy the scenic walks and sights.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and bringing a passport or ID is recommended. Optional items include a hat, sunscreen, and a camera.

How do I book tickets for Ninfa and Sermoneta Castle?
You can arrange tickets in advance through the tour provider or contact them for assistance, ensuring you avoid sold-out situations.

This private day trip from Rome offers a thoughtful blend of natural beauty, medieval charm, and personalized service. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful yet engaging escape, with enough flexibility to make it uniquely their own. If you love gardens, history, and authentic Italian towns, this tour will leave you with unforgettable memories of Lazio beyond Rome’s walls.

You can check availability for your dates here: