Things To Do
in Tarquinia
Tarquinia is a picturesque medieval town located in the Lazio region of Italy. It is known for its well-preserved Etruscan necropolis, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town is characterized by its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can also explore the town's museums, churches, and lively piazzas.
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đ˝ď¸ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- đď¸ââď¸ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Necropolis of Tarquinia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient tombs adorned with vibrant frescoes that date back to the Etruscan civilization.
Head to the Tarquinia Museum to learn about the city's rich history and see Etruscan artifacts. Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, sampling traditional Italian dishes.
Stroll through the historic center of Tarquinia and enjoy the sunset over the countryside. Dinner at a restaurant with a view will complete your day perfectly.
Begin your day with a visit to a local vineyard for a wine tasting session. Learn about the winemaking process in the region while sampling some of the finest wines.
Join a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Italian dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy your culinary creations paired with the wine you tasted earlier.
Relax at a cozy cafĂŠ in the town square, savoring gelato as you people-watch. A leisurely walk through the vibrant streets will wrap up your culinary adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including Etruscan tombs and archaeological sites.
- Beautiful medieval architecture, with charming streets and buildings.
- Stunning coastal views and proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea.
- Less touristy compared to other Italian cities, providing a more authentic experience.
- Local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and traditional Italian dishes.
- Limited public transportation options, making it difficult to travel to nearby cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Italian speakers.
- Some areas may have fewer modern amenities and services.
- Can be quite hot in the summer, which might be uncomfortable for some visitors.
- Seasonal tourism fluctuations may affect availability of accommodations and amenities.
Best Activities in Tarquinia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a relaxing day at Tarquinia Lido, where you can sunbathe, swim, and partake in various water sports along the beautiful Mediterranean coast.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Etruscan Necropolises of Tarquinia, including ancient tombs and frescoes, which provide insight into the rich history and culture of the Etruscans.
Take a short trip to hike through the scenic trails of Bracciano Martignano Regional Park, featuring lush greenery and beautiful lakes, perfect for nature lovers.
Rent a bike and ride along the coastal paths, enjoying fantastic views of the sea and countryside, with various stops for refreshments at local cafes.
Embark on a wine tasting tour in the surrounding vineyards, where you can sample local wines and enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the Lazio region.
Take a walking tour of Tarquinia's historic center, visiting landmarks such as the Tarquinia Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Priori, while enjoying outdoor cafes and artisanal shops.
Visit the coastal wetlands of Saline di Tarquinia for birdwatching, where you can observe a variety of migratory birds and unique wildlife in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tarquinia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tarquinia
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside
Beautiful streets and architecture perfect for photography
Ancient burial grounds with unique photo opportunities
Food in Tarquinia
Tarquinia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing salad made with stale bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and basil, all dressed in olive oil and vinegar. Best enjoyed at Osteria La Torre in the historic town center.
Must-Try!
Tender and aromatic slow-cooked wild boar stew, a delicacy often served at Trattoria Il Pino, a charming family-run restaurant nestled in the countryside.
Light and crispy zucchini blossoms filled with creamy ricotta and herbs, found at Antica Locanda San Marco, a cozy tavern in the heart of Tarquinia.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tarquinia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling farmers' market held on Saturdays, offering an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and local specialties like porchetta sandwiches and frittelle (fritters).
This charming square is dotted with street food vendors selling mouthwatering arancini (stuffed rice balls), panini, and supplĂŹ (fried rice croquettes) - perfect for a quick and flavorful bite while exploring the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tarquinia, it is customary to greet others with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A firm handshake is common in formal situations, while closer friends may greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks.
When dining in Tarquinia, it is respectful to wait for the host to begin the meal or say 'Buon Appetito' before starting. It is common to keep hands on the table but not elbows, and it's polite to eat with both fork and knife for most dishes.
Dress in Tarquinia tends to be stylish and well put-together. Casual clothing is acceptable, but when visiting churches or formal events, modest attire is expected. Avoid overly revealing clothing to show respect for local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tarquinia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tarquinia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tarquinia, as in much of Italy, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated. It is common to round up the bill or leave small change at restaurants and cafes. For exceptional service, a tip of around 10% may be left.
Payments in Tarquinia can be made in cash or by card, with many establishments accepting debit and credit cards. However, smaller shops and some restaurants may prefer cash. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tarquinia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tarquinia, Italy. Pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. Ideal for sightseeing and exploring the outdoors.
Peak tourist season. Warm weather, lively atmosphere, and many cultural events. Perfect for beach activities and enjoying the local festivals.
Mild weather, harvest festivals, and beautiful foliage. Less crowded compared to summer. Great for wine tasting and enjoying the local cuisine.
Cool and quiet. Fewer tourists, but many local holiday traditions. Ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Tarquinia at Night
Hiking in Tarquinia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning mountain offering various trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Tiber Valley.
Known as the 'dying town', this area offers picturesque hiking routes with breathtaking views of the valley and unique geological formations.
A protected area that features a rich variety of flora and fauna with numerous hiking trails that wind through lush forests.
A regional park that combines historical ruins with scenic hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore nature and ancient history.
This area offers a variety of hiking trails with different levels of difficulty and allows hikers to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of southern Tuscany.
Aiports
How to reach Tarquinia by plane.
Located in Fiumicino, approximately 90 kilometers southwest of Tarquinia, FCO is the largest and busiest airport in Italy, serving as a major international gateway.
Located approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Tarquinia, CIA primarily serves low-cost carriers and charter airlines, offering flights to various international destinations.
Situated about 170 kilometers northwest of Tarquinia, PSA is a significant international airport that serves Tuscany and offers flights to several European destinations.
Located around 200 kilometers northwest of Tarquinia, FLR is a smaller airport that offers both domestic and international flights, mainly serving the Florence area.
Approximately 330 kilometers north of Tarquinia, BLQ handles both domestic and international flights and is a key airport for the Emilia-Romagna region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group consisting of native Italians living in Tarquinia.
Elderly population often represents a significant portion of the demographic due to long life expectancy.
Includes students and young professionals, typically aged 18-34.
Young population, including school-aged children and infants.
Diverse groups of immigrants from various countries, contributing to the cultural fabric of Tarquinia.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Tarquinia, with local clubs and a strong following among residents.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Tarquinia, particularly among younger players and through local sports associations.
Tennis is a favored sport in Tarquinia, with several courts available and clubs offering training for various age groups.
With access to various swimming facilities, swimming is a common recreational and competitive sport in the area.
Volleyball is played at both recreational and competitive levels, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarquinia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Tarquinia offer vegetarian pasta dishes like the classic pasta al pomodoro or pasta primavera. For vegan options, La Vecchia Fattoria features a variety of farm-to-table vegan specialties.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can indulge in gluten-free pasta and pizza at Ristorante Pizzeria King, a restaurant known for its extensive gluten-free menu and careful attention to dietary needs.