Ostia Antica is possibly one of the most overlooked archaeological sites in Italy.
This ancient Roman port is a treasure chest of well-preserved structures and buildings, which include temples, markets, bath houses, a large theatre and intricate mosaics. Oh, and beautifully intact public latrines, too!
Let’s look at how to visit Ostia Antica from Rome, plus a list of amazing things to see (and do) in this place.
How to get to Ostia Antica from Rome
Ostia Antica is just a 30-minute train ride from Rome. There’s a train station just next to Ostia Antica, and getting there is pretty simple:
- First, get on metro line B and stop at Piramide.
- Walk out of the station and head to Porta San Paolo station, which is next door.
- Get on the Lido train to Ostia and stop at Ostia Antica. Don’t stop at Ostia Lido Nord or Ostia Lido Centro unless you want to get to the beach.
Once you get off the train at the Ostia Antica stop, you’ll need to cross to the other side of the station. Walk over the bridge (you’ll see a sign pointing to the ruins) and you’re there!
Important: Ignore a brown sign which says ‘Passaggio al mare’ (or something similar) as you come out of the train station. It leads to a walking trail along a park and through a forest, and ends at the sea front.
It’s a very long walk to the beach, so if you’re planning to head there for lunch after visiting Ostia Antica, you’ll need to get on the train again.
What to see in Ostia Antica
The great thing about Ostia Antica is that you can explore it at your own pace, without a guide or map.
However, the area is huge and you might not get to see everything if you’re only there for a couple of hours.
Let’s look at some of the best attractions in Ostia Antica.
1. The Mosaics
Ostia Antica is famous for its impressive black and white mosaics, especially those found in the bath of Neptune.
Don’t worry if some of the mosaics are undergoing restoration. There are many of them at the site.
As you’re walking around Ostia Antica, you’re bound to come across more examples of these masterpieces.
2. The Theatre
You can’t miss the Roman theatre in Ostia Antica!
Besides being on the main path from the entrance, it also towers majestically over the rest of the ruins.
Erected at the end of the 1st century BC, the theatre was originally built to accommodate 2,500 people but was later extended for an audience of 4,000.
The theatre is still used for cultural performances.
3. Horrea Epagathiana
This well-preserved Roman warehouse is a remnant of everyday life during the Roman Empire. Back then, Ostia Antica was a hub of commerce and trade.
Niches that once held statues of deities decorate the courtyard.
The black and white mosaic in the courtyard is particularly notable for its depiction of a tiger at the east end of the building and a panther on the opposite side.
4. Capitolium
Another imposing building, the Capitolium is a temple dedicated to the main Roman deities, known as the Capitoline triad (Jupiter, Juno and Minerva).
You can still see the large niches on the side walls where the statues would have been placed.
5. The Castle of Julius
Situated across the road from Ostia Antica, the Castle of Julius II (named after the Pope who commissioned the construction of the fortress) is another site worth a visit.
You can also go for a wee wander around this old part of town.
The houses here are gorgeous, and you can stop for a coffee in one of the cafes nestled in the cobbled alleys.
Where to eat in Ostia Antica
There’s a nice cafe at Ostia Antica. While it’s a bit on the pricey side, the food is quite decent.
Alternatively, you can eat at one of the restaurants and cafes in town. There are some nice ones in the medieval part of Ostia, next to the castle.
Tip: Want to visit Ostia Antica with a guide? Check out this half day trip to Ostia Antica from Rome (by train).
Ostia Antica tickets and opening hours
You can buy your tickets at the door, or purchase them online. At the time of writing, tickets cost 14 EUR per person.
Ostia Antica is open from Tuesday to Sunday (it’s always closed on Mondays). Also, opening times vary according to the season, so you’ll need to check the website before you go.
Frequently asked questions about Ostia Antica
Is Ostia Antica worth visiting?
Yes! This ancient Roman port is a treasure chest of architectural jewels, and it’s so well-preserved.
What is Ostia famous for?
The mosaics! They’re some of the best preserved mosaics in Italy, and they’re so intricate!
How do I get from Rome to Ostia Antica by train?
First, you’ll need to get on metro line B and stop at Piramide. Then, walk out of the metro station and head to Porta San Paolo train station, which is right next door.
Get on the Lido train to Ostia and stop at Ostia Antica. Don’t stop at Ostia Lido Nord or Ostia Lido Centro unless you want to get to the beach.
2 Responses
Hi! I am planning on going to Ostia Antica this Sunday and was just wondering how you were able to get tickets for the Lido train/how much they cost if you remember. Are there ticket machines at the station or do you have to buy online? Thanks!!
Hi Lizzie,
You can buy the tickets from the train station on the day you’re travelling. We bought ours from the ticket office, but you’ll probably find machines at the station as well. I can’t remember how much the tickets were – we visited in 2015!