Tivoli: Hadrian’ Villa and Villa d’Este – Day Trip from Rome

Tivoli is a land of history, featuring countless archeological sites with views of Italy’s famously picturesque countryside. Among these sites, two stand out as especially immaculate: for both of which, you’ll skip the normal tourist lines and head straight into the lap of exquisite Roman luxury.

The Roman Emperor Hadrian held one place close to his heart: a special Villa, tucked away from the commonplace hustle of busy Roman streets. Rome is an excellent place to be, its size and scope a true sight to behold – but if you ever need a break, a serene getaway to a whole new kind of beauty, you too can follow in Emperor Hadrian’s footsteps. Take his journey for your own, and visit Hadrian’s Villa.

The villa may be over 2000 years old, but its elegance remains legendary. Less of a single structure and more of a complex, Hadrian’s Villa consists of several pools, fountains, gardens, and so much more. A new discovery in 1998 even uncovered a whole new section of the villa. Hadrian was extremely well-traveled, and his insight is made evident throughout the site – including innovations and techniques from other iconic locations throughout ancient Rome.

This tour will take you to more than just Hadrian’s Villa, of course. Villa d’Esta was built in the 16th century, with grand-scale influences from the renaissance era made impossible to miss. The villa is renowned for its immaculate renaissance gardens.

The buildings themselves are filled with breathtaking art. Lining the walls, and often the ceilings, you’ll see masterful paintings of all shapes and sizes. Statues and fountains fill the site with movement and life, ensuring that no single location is left wanting for incredible beauty.

The majesty of this villa is capable of more than just aweing your eyes, however – it can also bless your ears with the magnificent sounds of its Water Organ. Following a series of restoration efforts, this incredible feature of Villa d’Este now works as it once did, allowing visitors a way to step back in time, experiencing the villa’s beauty as it was truly meant to be seen and heard.