Lazio, Italy

Lazio is in central Italy, on the western coast. The region was formerly known to English travellers by its Roman name, Latium, although this version of the name is now rarely used. A major port of call on the Grand Tour, when eighteenth-century travellers explored its scenic villages, Lazio is now largely overlooked in favour of its capital, Rome.

Rome is the principal tourist destination in Lazio. Most of the region’s other sights can be managed as a daytrip from the city, but if you’re interested in a slightly different holiday, consider staying for longer in one of Lazio’s other provinces. As well as Rome itself, the Province of Rome boasts popular tourist destinations like Frascati and Tivoli.

The Province of Latina runs for 100km along the coast, between Rome and Campania, and includes stretches of sandy beach and charming resorts like Sperlonga, and the Pontine Islands. Frosinone is inland and its most well-known tourist destination is Fiuggi, a spa resort with thermal springs. Budget coach tours sometimes use Fiuggi as a base for seeing Rome, although it is some distance from the Eternal City.

Viterbo, to the north, is a historic town with a beautiful, well-preserved medieval centre. Its province offers a wealth of tourist attractions: the lovely Lakes Vico and Bolsena, splendid gardens at the Villa Lante in Bagnaia, a grand palace at Caprarola, Etruscan remains at Tarquinia and Vulci, thermal springs and famous wine.