Discover Ostia Antica: A Journey into Ancient Roman Life

If you’re exploring the Eternal City and want a break from the usual sights, a visit to Ostia Antica is one of the most fascinating things to do in Rome. Just 30 kilometers west of the city center, this remarkably preserved archaeological site was once the bustling port town of ancient Rome. Today, it stands as an open-air museum that lets you walk the same streets Roman citizens did more than 2,000 years ago.

Far less crowded than Pompeii and easier to reach, Ostia Antica offers a more personal and immersive experience for those curious about everyday life in ancient times.

Why Ostia Antica Should Be on Your Itinerary

Once the Empire’s most important commercial hub, Ostia Antica played a vital role in feeding the capital and distributing goods throughout the empire. Unlike Pompeii, which was frozen in time by a volcanic eruption, Ostia slowly fell into decline over centuries. This allowed its buildings—shops, homes, taverns, warehouses, and public baths—to remain surprisingly intact.

Visitors can explore a wide range of spaces: Roman theaters, mosaicked bathhouses, apartment buildings, temples, and even public toilets. If you’ve already visited the Roman Forum, Ostia Antica will give you a fuller picture of what life was like outside Rome’s political center.

What to See

The site is enormous, and you’ll need at least three to four hours to experience it properly. Highlights include:

• Theater of Ostia: Still used today for concerts and events, especially during the summer. It’s one of the most impressive landmarks on site.
• Decumanus Maximus: The town’s main street, lined with cart tracks, temples, markets, and ancient shops.
• Baths and Mosaics: Many of the public bathhouses are decorated with beautifully preserved mosaics, frescoes, and marble.
• Insulae: Early examples of apartment blocks, some with more than one floor.
• Taverns, bakeries, and shops: Complete with counters and ovens, offering a unique glimpse into Roman daily life.
• Temples and the Forum: Reflecting the city’s religious and civic life.
• Necropolis and tombs: Located near the entrance, offering insight into Roman burial traditions.
• Castle of Julius II: A medieval fortress built near the site entrance, adding another layer of history to your visit.
• Ostia’s version of Trastevere: A residential area across the Tiber, once connected by a now-lost bridge.
• A Roman toilet: Yes, even ancient bathrooms are part of the experience.

If you’re up for a longer walk, areas like the Market District, the Porta Laurentina necropolis, and the Residential Districts offer even more archaeological treasures to explore.

How to Get There from Rome

Getting to Ostia Antica is easy and affordable:

• By Train: Take the Roma-Lido suburban train from Porta San Paolo station (next to the Piramide metro stop on Line B). Get off at “Ostia Antica” station. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs only €1.50. From the station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the entrance. Follow the signs or take the pedestrian overpass.
• By Car: Drive along Via del Mare or Via Ostiense and follow the signs. Parking is available nearby. If you prefer a taxi, expect to pay around €150 roundtrip from the city center.

Insider Tips for Visiting

• Comfort is key: Wear sturdy shoes. The cobbled roads are beautiful but hard on your feet.
• Bring water and sun protection: Much of the site is exposed, especially in warmer months.
• Don’t rush: Some of the most interesting spots are deeper inside the park. Try not to spend all your time near the entrance.
• Consider a guided tour: Signage can be limited or poorly translated. A guide adds a lot of value to your visit.
• Plan for a half-day: You’ll want at least three to four hours. For history lovers, a full day isn’t too much.

Tickets and Tours

• General admission: €18 per person
• English-language guided tours: From €49, including entry
• Included in the Roma Pass: If you have a Roma Pass or Omnia Card, you may get free or discounted entry. These passes also include free public transport and discounts on museums and events in Rome

Private tours are also available and are highly recommended for anyone wanting an in-depth experience.

Is There More to Do Nearby?

Absolutely. The surrounding countryside is lovely, with umbrella pines and cypress trees lining the landscape. There’s also a small on-site museum with artefacts from the excavation, and during summer, the ancient theater hosts cultural events like plays and concerts.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can combine your visit to Ostia Antica with an afternoon at the beach. The Tyrrhenian Sea is just a short train ride away from the same station.

How Does It Compare to Other Roman Sites?

Many travellers find Ostia Antica more engaging than the Roman Forum because it offers a wider variety of building types and better-preserved interiors. Unlike the Forum or Palatine Hill, where you often view ruins from a distance, at Ostia you can step into houses, walk through marketplaces, and sit in an ancient theater.

It’s also less crowded than sites in central Rome or Pompeii, making for a more relaxed and atmospheric visit.

Practical Information

• Opening hours: Generally open daily, though hours may vary with the season. Check ahead if you’re visiting on holidays.
• Facilities: There are restrooms, a small café, and picnic areas on-site.
• Accessibility: While the paths are mostly flat, cobblestones and uneven ground can make access difficult for those with mobility issues.
• Safety: The site is well maintained and safe for visitors. Just be mindful of your surroundings and avoid climbing on fragile ruins.