Neptune Baths Terme di Nettuno
Explore Ostia Antica, Rome's ancient port city, with stunning mosaics and vast ruins. A must-visit archeological marvel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beautiful weather, fewer crowds
Neptune Baths Terme di Nettuno
Best Time
Beautiful weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Ostia Antica, Rome's ancient port city, with stunning mosaics and vast ruins. A must-visit archeological marvel.
"Ostia Antiqua is the most amazing place in Rome. A lot of walking, but totally worth it. "
🗺️ Get an Ostia Antica Map
Essential for navigating the vast site and finding hidden gems like the Baths of Neptune mosaics. :world_map:
🎧 Rick Steves Audio Guide
Enhances your understanding and appreciation of the ruins and mosaics. Highly recommended! :musical_score:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baths of Neptune Mosaics
Ostia Antica
Stunning, well-preserved ancient mosaics offering a glimpse into Roman life. A must-see within the archeological site.
Ostia Antica Archeological Site
Rome, Italy
An expansive and mind-blowing ancient Roman port city, still undergoing active excavation.
Museum Collection
Ostia Antica
Discover artifacts and sculptures unearthed from the ancient city, complementing the outdoor ruins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Mosaics!
Pace Yourself for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Mosaics at Ostia Antica. Own photos 📸
🗺️ Get an Ostia Antica Map
Essential for navigating the vast site and finding hidden gems like the Baths of Neptune mosaics. :world_map:
🎧 Rick Steves Audio Guide
Enhances your understanding and appreciation of the ruins and mosaics. Highly recommended! :musical_score:
Ostia Antica is amazing and impressed me more than Pompeii. Some of my pics
Advice for some less visited places in Rome
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Visit on a Beautiful Morning
Enjoy the ruins in pleasant weather, especially in May for a delightful experience. :sunrise:
Ostia Antica Feb 2023
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Get an Ostia Antica Map
Essential for navigating the vast site and finding hidden gems like the Baths of Neptune mosaics. :world_map:
🎧 Rick Steves Audio Guide
Enhances your understanding and appreciation of the ruins and mosaics. Highly recommended! :musical_score:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Visit on a Beautiful Morning
Enjoy the ruins in pleasant weather, especially in May for a delightful experience. :sunrise:
📸 Photo Caution
Be mindful of caution tape around delicate mosaics when trying to capture photos. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ostia Antica as an incredible, expansive archeological site, often calling it the 'most amazing place in Rome.' The well-preserved Baths of Neptune mosaics are a particular highlight, offering stunning views. While some areas are less well-displayed and there's a lot of walking, the overall experience is considered 'mind-numbing' and totally worth it for history enthusiasts.
"The mosaics in the Baths of Neptune are not to be missed when exploring the archeological site of Ostia Antica. It would have been easily missed if not for the map I purchased for a few euros at the ticket office. It also helps to listen to the Rick Steves' audio guide prior to your visit.
There are steps leading up to a viewing area overlooking the very well-preserved mosaics. An absolutely amazing view with the sound of birds chirping. Loved it!!
We had a very enjoyable visit on a beautiful morning in the month of May."
Karen V
"Some parts of Ostia Antica are poorly displayed for the public, however it is a wonderful site and still an active excavation site in some places."
Alistair Galt
"Ostia Antiqua is the most amazing place in Rome. A lot of walking, but totally worth it. The collection in the museum is cool, but the site itself is mind numbing! Hit up YouTube for the Rick Steve's guide before going, the set your expectations higher, because they are still finding new stuff"
Dan Morassutti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the Roma-Lido train from Piramide station (connected to the Metro B line). The journey takes about 30 minutes. Get off at the Ostia Antica stop.
Yes, the Roma-Lido train makes it quite accessible from central Rome. It's a popular day trip option.
Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging, and navigating Roman traffic might be stressful. The train is generally recommended.
The Baths of Neptune are a key feature within the main archeological site. Follow signs or consult your map once inside.
Ostia Antica is relatively close to Fiumicino Airport, making it a convenient stop if you have a late flight or early departure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but typically range around €12-€18 for adults. Check the official website for current pricing.
It's advisable to check if online booking is available to save time, especially during peak season.
Opening hours vary seasonally, generally from around 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM in winter and later in summer. Always verify current hours.
The Rick Steves audio guide is free to download on your phone, but you can purchase physical maps at the ticket office for a small fee.
Check for potential discounts for students, seniors, or EU citizens. It's always good to inquire at the ticket counter.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore the main ruins and museum. You could easily spend a full day if you're a history enthusiast.
The Baths of Neptune mosaics, the Theatre, the Piazzale delle Corporazioni, and the Decumanus Maximus are highly recommended.
Yes, facilities are available, and reviewers have noted them positively.
Children can enjoy exploring the vast open spaces and imagining life in ancient times. It's a great educational outing.
Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful of caution tape around delicate areas, especially the mosaics. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited options within the site itself, so it's advisable to bring snacks and water or plan to eat before or after your visit.
The modern town of Ostia Antica has several trattorias and pizzerias where you can enjoy local cuisine after your visit.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is a good idea to stay hydrated and fueled during your exploration.
While not explicitly designated, there are open spaces where you can enjoy a picnic, provided you clean up afterward.
Expect traditional Italian fare, including pasta dishes, pizza, and seafood, given its proximity to the coast.
📸 📸 Photography
The Baths of Neptune mosaics, the Theatre, and panoramic views of the ruins offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Caution tape may restrict close-up access, but you can still capture stunning shots from designated viewing areas.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the textures of the ruins.
Drone usage is typically restricted in archeological sites for preservation and safety reasons. Check local regulations.
Focus on capturing the scale of the ruins, the intricate details of the mosaics, and the interplay of light and shadow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Wear comfortable shoes: Essential for little legs navigating the ancient streets.
* Pack snacks and water: Facilities are available, but having your own provisions is convenient.
* Utilize the audio guide: It can make the history more accessible and interesting for older children.
* Focus on key areas: Don't try to see everything; let kids enjoy exploring the theatre or imagining life in the ancient apartments.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Budget-friendly tips:
* Pack your own lunch and drinks: This significantly cuts down on expenses within the site.
* Utilize free audio guides: Download the Rick Steves guide to your phone instead of paying for guided tours.
* Travel during off-peak hours: While not always possible, visiting outside of peak tourist times might offer a more relaxed experience without extra cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Baths of Neptune
To truly appreciate the Baths of Neptune, it's highly recommended to utilize resources like the map purchased at the ticket office or the Rick Steves audio guide. These tools provide context and highlight the significance of the mosaics, transforming a visual experience into an educational journey. While some areas might have caution tape to protect delicate sections, the overall view is breathtaking and a definite highlight for any visitor.
Pro Tip: Visiting on a beautiful morning, especially in months like May, enhances the experience with pleasant weather and fewer crowds, allowing for a more immersive appreciation of this historical marvel.
Navigating Ostia Antica: A Vast Ancient City
Many visitors are struck by how active the site still is, with ongoing excavations revealing new discoveries. This sense of a living history adds a unique dimension to the visit. While the museum collection is interesting, the real magic lies in wandering through the ancient streets and imagining life as it was centuries ago.
To make the most of your visit, consider downloading the Rick Steves audio guide before you go. It provides invaluable context and stories that bring the ruins to life. A map from the ticket office is also a wise investment to help you navigate the extensive grounds and ensure you don't miss key areas like the Baths of Neptune.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit