Anzio Car Hire
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This buzzing port town is a popular spot for holidaying Romans and Italian tourists. Despite boasting one of the best-looking beaches in the region, it’s blissfully free from international tourism, which means you can enjoy an authentic and affordable experience too. Once an important Roman resort town, the area is now more commonly associated with the Battle of Anzio, a brutal battle that took place during World War II. But beyond military history, the town is renowned for its fantastic fish restaurants, sparkling sea views and charming city centre. It’s also a popular departure point for the Pontine archipelago, home to some of Italy’s most idyllic islands. For an easier road trip, book your car rental in advance with Enjoy Travel.
Guide of Anzio
Geography
Anzio is a town and commune situated around 51 km south of Rome, on the coast of Lazio. The town sits on a peninsula that protrudes into the bright blue Tyrannean Sea.
Climate in Anzio
Anzio experiences a warm and temperate climate. Summers in Anzio begin at the end of June and last until September. They are characteristically warm, muggy and clear, with average daily high temperatures of 25°C. August is the hottest month of the year in Anzio. The cold season kicks off in late November and lasts until early April. Temperatures average daily highs of 16°C.
The most rain falls during winter and there is relatively little rainfall during the summer. For those looking to enjoy hot-weather activities, summertime is the best time to travel to Anzio.
Culture
According to local legend, Anzio was founded by Anthias, the son of Odysseus and Circe. It became an important stronghold of the ancient Volsci people in the 5th century BC, making it even older than Rome. Under Roman rule, it became a popular resort for wealthy holidaying Romans – both Caligula and Nero were born here. After the fall of the Roman empire, it saw a period of decline and modern Anzio was only rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries. However, the town saw heavy bombardment and fighting late in World War II and much of the town has since been rebuilt. Today, it’s a lovely, lively fishing town and a popular holiday spot for local sun-seeking tourists.
Things To Do in Anzio
Top up your tan on the beach
Six beaches make up Anzio’s impressive 12 km coastline, so you’ll have plenty to choose from. All of the beaches are sandy and feature shallow waters that descend smoothly into deeper patches, which makes it ideal for families with young children The largest beach is Riviera Zanardelli, which offers both private lidos and free sections. The Lido dei Gigli is backed by 20-metre sand dunes and a pine forest, while Nerone beach is popular with divers.
Visit the Imperial Villa of Nero
Emperor Nero built this villa almost 1,000 years ago. While the ruins hardly reflect the scale and grandiosity of the Emporer’s original creation, many interesting features remain. The floors are the best-preserved element, made with precious marble and simple stones. If you haven’t had your fill of Roman ruins, you can explore the amphitheatre and nearby Museo Civico Archeologico too.
Pay your respects at the cemetery
There are two large cemeteries in Anzio: the Anzio War Cemetary and the Cimitero Monimenale Inglese (the English cemetery). The former tells the story of American soldiers posted in the town during the Second World War, while the latter remembers the lives of British soldiers lost during the Battle of Anzio. There are 2,200 graves in the Cimitero Monimentale Inglese, set in impeccably manicured gardens.
Get back to nature in the Reserva Tor Caldara
This 44-hectare protected reserve was recently awarded the status of one of Europe’s most important protected areas. Famed for its ancient Roman ruins, the coastal area also features a Meditteranean forest, a small botanical garden, aviaries and turtle shelters.
Hop on the hydrofoil to Ponza
Between its candy-coloured homes, turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, Ponza is one of Italy’s prettiest islands. Part of the Pontine Islands archipelago, the island is similar to Capri but more affordable. The easiest way to get here is to hop on an hour-long ferry or hydro-foil from Anzio.
Eating Out in Anzio
It’s not hard to eat well in Anzio. There are over 60 restaurants in the city centre, with many offering fresh fish and sea views. The town is best known for its seafood dishes, particularly mackerel, anchovies, mullet, fragolino and sea hen. Unlike many coastal towns, you won’t find many tourist traps either, so it’s easy to eat authentically and affordably. Popular spots include Romolo al Porto and Alceste. Il Turcotto is a winner for romantic views over Nero’s caves. There are dozens of cafes and bars lining the beachfront that offer light meals, tasty pastries and creamy gelati too.
Transport
The nearest airport to Anzio is Rome Ciampino (CIA) Airport, which is 38.6 km away. It is mostly served by low-cost European airlines like Ryanair. Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) – also known as Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport – is the second-closest airport to Anzio and is located 48.9 km. As Rome’s largest airport, it is the most convenient option for travellers visiting from further afield than Europe.
Getting Around Anzio
Unlike most coastal towns in Lazio, Anzio is relatively easy to reach by public transport. Trains depart hourly from Rome and cost as little as €3 each way. Anzio train station is centrally located and easy to reach from the town centre and port. Ferries and hydrofoils run regularly from Anzio to the idyllic island of Ponza, though it’s worth checking the timetable ahead of your trip as services can be infrequent out of season. Anzio is a highly walkable town and you’ll be able to reach most sights on foot or by bicycle. However, if you’re planning on combining your trip with a visit to neighbouring coastal towns or hilly villages, we recommend hiring a car.