This coastal suburb of Rome has wide sandy beaches along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ancient Roman ruins and a 15th-century castle sit near modern beach clubs and seafood restaurants.
Lido di Ostia lies 30 kilometers from Rome along Italy's western coastline. In this beach town of 85,000 residents, you can swim at dark sand beaches lined with colorful umbrellas, shop at local morning markets, and explore the nearby ruins of Ostia Antica with its ancient Roman theater and detailed mosaics. Romans and tourists come here year-round, with summer bringing the largest crowds to the Mediterranean shore.
Getting to Lido di Ostia
The Roma-Lido train connects Rome's Porta San Paolo station to Lido di Ostia in about 30 minutes. Trains run every 15 minutes during peak hours and cost €1.50 one-way. The station in Rome connects to Metro Line B, and you'll find several stops along the beachfront in Ostia. Most visitors exit at Lido Centro or Stella Polare stations, both within walking distance to the beach.
Beach Experience
Dark sand beaches line the Mediterranean coast, with both private establishments and public access areas. You can bring your own towel and umbrella to the free sections between the stabilimenti (beach clubs), or pay €15-20 for a daily set of loungers and umbrella at a club. The water meets swimming standards, and lifeguards monitor designated swimming areas from 9:00 to 19:00 during summer months. Romans fill the shoreline from June through September when city temperatures rise above 30°C.
Exploring Ostia Antica
The archaeological site of Ostia Antica lies just inland from modern Lido di Ostia. You'll walk through multi-story apartment buildings, warehouses, temples, and a theater dating back to the 2nd century BCE. A visit takes about 2-3 hours, with entrance tickets costing €12. Exit at Ostia Antica station, one stop before the beach area. The mosaics in the ancient apartments and shops depict scenes of daily Roman life, from food preparation to maritime trade.
Local Life and Accommodation
You'll find vacation rentals and permanent homes throughout the residential streets, with two-bedroom apartments costing €60-100 per night. Most apartments can fit 4-6 people and have guest ratings above 9/10. The morning market on Via della Marina sells fresh produce and local goods. Small cafes serve €1 espresso, and in the evening, residents gather in neighborhood squares for conversations. While tourists come for the beach, most streets and shops cater to local daily life.
