Just a stone's throw from Rome lies the archaeological secret of Ostia Antica. No visitor to Rome should leave without taking a short day trip to this preserved ancient town, known by experts as “The Better Pompeii.”

Depart from Rome by local train and head through the stunning Roman countryside to Ostia Antica—a town founded in the 4th century BC, once inhabited by more than 100,000 people.

Stroll through taverns, baths, apartments, markets, and theaters. The astonishing highly preserved condition of Ostia's buildings and Roman statues that line the walkways makes a hike through this archeological park a true step back in time.

Walk the main street of Decumanus Maximus and discover the Baths of Neptune, the former community baths which are crowned by an intact mosaic of the Sea God being drawn by a 4-horse chariot. Visit the impressive amphitheater whose structure remains so stable you can sit in the stands as the Romans of 12 BC did when the arena was first built.