Day trip to Frascati and Ariccia

Wine tasting and pork eating in the country
Talk of the town: Ancient Rome's elite reportedly built their villa retreats in Ariccia. Frascati meanwhile was a Renaissance-era favourite.

Word to the wise: CONTRAL buses to Frascati run frequently from Anagnina station and trains from Stazione Termini.
Located roughly 20 minutes travel south east from Rome, near Ciampino Airport, is the Lazio region. The town of Frascati is a stark blend of ancient and modern. A hotbed for ancient archeological discoveries, it is mostly known for the signature white wines, which always taste best from their hometown. Frascati holds its famous wine festival in October, and its equally popular Carnevale - a day of carnival and parades - in February.

Further south in Lazio is the beautiful mountainous regions around Ariccia. This serene, idyllic hillside town has for many centuries welcomed Roman emperors, artists and scribes looking for peace and quiet. With rich history and fresh air it's a popular retreat on stifling midsummer days for long walks.

One of Lazio's biggest celebrities, however, is the pig. 'Porchetta' is traditional Italian roasted, seasoned pork, and the ultimate winter warmer. Visit in September, when Ariccia holds an annual porchetta festival (Sagra della Porchetta).