Gaeta
Gaeta
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Latest page update: 2 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Situated in the south-east corner of Lazio and close to the border with Campania, Gaeta is one of the foremost seaside resorts on the western, Tyrrhenian Coast of Italy.
Formerly known as the Duchy of Gaeta in the ninth and 12th centuries, it also has an illustrious history, being one of the maritime republics of the medieval period. Among Gaeta's rivals were nearby city-states such as Amalfi, Sorrento and Benevento, with whom it often fought either for or against in matters of trade, politics and sometimes, warfare. |
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What People Ask About Gaeta
What is Gaeta known for?
Can you swim in Gaeta?
What is Montagna Spaccata in Gaeta?
How do you get to Gaeta by train?
Is Gaeta a good day trip from Rome or Naples?
Related links
Overview
Overview
The four areas of Gaeta
With its beaches, caves, historic centre and clutch of churches, there is a great deal to explore in Gaeta. The town is split into four distinct areas around the headland of Monte Orlando. To really appreciate everything the town has to offer requires a full day but it works much better as a holiday base. The first area of interest is the port and the centro storico (historic centre) that surrounds it. If you approach Gaeta by car, you may have already felt you'd arrived in the centre as you pass the seafront and marina but if you continue heading east you eventually reach the port.
The port is a great spot for lunch with its clutch of restaurants specialising in freshly-caught fish. You can walk off your lunch or dinner by taking a stroll along the lungomare (seafront), checking out the boats in the marina or by visiting the town's main church: the Cathedral Basilica of Gaeta, fully named Basilica Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Assunta in Cielo e dei Santi Erasmo e Marciano. The Cathedral can also boast a 13th century Bell Tower which at 57 metres high, soars above the Centro Storico.
The port is a great spot for lunch with its clutch of restaurants specialising in freshly-caught fish. You can walk off your lunch or dinner by taking a stroll along the lungomare (seafront), checking out the boats in the marina or by visiting the town's main church: the Cathedral Basilica of Gaeta, fully named Basilica Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Assunta in Cielo e dei Santi Erasmo e Marciano. The Cathedral can also boast a 13th century Bell Tower which at 57 metres high, soars above the Centro Storico.
Elevated vantage points
Around the port you'll find an interesting tangle of streets; architecture comprising bright, bold colours mixed with archway windows. The collection of tall buildings in this area creates an intriguing overall effect, especially when viewed from afar or from above the town.
There are several vantage points from which you can gaze down at this area: the beautiful Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi with its striking statue standing on a plinth at the centre of a monumental staircase is one such viewpoint. Continue to climb the streets around the church and you'll get wonderful views of the port and the Castello Agioino-Aragonese which stands guard above it.
There are several vantage points from which you can gaze down at this area: the beautiful Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi with its striking statue standing on a plinth at the centre of a monumental staircase is one such viewpoint. Continue to climb the streets around the church and you'll get wonderful views of the port and the Castello Agioino-Aragonese which stands guard above it.
Things to Do
Things to Do
Monte Orlando
Dominating the landscape around Gaeta is Monte Orlando. Standing at 171 metres above sea level, the rocky headland dwarfs everything below it, including the castle, offering some of Lazio's most dramatic panoramas. You can spend a whole day exploring this area alone, hiking up the mountain and visiting its monuments such as the Mausoleum of Lucius Plancus Munazio which sits at the very top.
Further down the mountain, an area known as Montagna Spaccata (Split Mountain) offers more sights including the Sanctuary of Montagna Spaccata. The Sanctuary houses a collection of churches and chapels, as well as the entrance to the Grotta del Turco. Named after the Saracen pirates that used it as a hideout, the Grotta is an atmospheric sea cave of bright blue water and haunting sights such as the handprint of a Turkish pirate for which legends abound.
Further down the mountain, an area known as Montagna Spaccata (Split Mountain) offers more sights including the Sanctuary of Montagna Spaccata. The Sanctuary houses a collection of churches and chapels, as well as the entrance to the Grotta del Turco. Named after the Saracen pirates that used it as a hideout, the Grotta is an atmospheric sea cave of bright blue water and haunting sights such as the handprint of a Turkish pirate for which legends abound.
Serapo Beach
From Monte Orlando and close to the Sanctuary, you get perfect views down to Gaeta's most popular beach: Spiaggia di Serapo. The beach occupies a large bay to the west of the port, around the headland, offering a 1.5 kilometre stretch of uninterrupted golden sands.
Make your way to the western end of the beach and you find a smaller raised headland with its own beautiful views. In this area you'll find the tiny Spiaggia di Fontania while continuing west brings you to the much larger beaches of Spiaggia dell'Ariana and Spiaggia dell'Arenauta.
Back towards the main town area, Serapo Beach lies at the southern end of the town with the main residential area of Gaeta directly behind it. This is actually the largest part of the town where you'll find the majority of shops and houses. It also has a long stretch of seafront, attractively manicured and lined with palm trees. At the southern end of this seafront called Lungomare Giovanni Caboto you'll find a large marina with its collection of expensive yachts.
Make your way to the western end of the beach and you find a smaller raised headland with its own beautiful views. In this area you'll find the tiny Spiaggia di Fontania while continuing west brings you to the much larger beaches of Spiaggia dell'Ariana and Spiaggia dell'Arenauta.
Back towards the main town area, Serapo Beach lies at the southern end of the town with the main residential area of Gaeta directly behind it. This is actually the largest part of the town where you'll find the majority of shops and houses. It also has a long stretch of seafront, attractively manicured and lined with palm trees. At the southern end of this seafront called Lungomare Giovanni Caboto you'll find a large marina with its collection of expensive yachts.
Boat trips from Gaeta
From Gaeta it's possible to take boat trips in the summer, exploring the caves and azure waters of the immediate coastline and there are also places where you can rent a boat and drive it yourselves. A few miles to the east of Gaeta lies the town of Formia which is one of the main ports providing ferry crossings to the island of Ponza, an hour and 20 minutes away by hydrofoil.
If you have a car, you can have great fun exploring the coastal road to the west of Gaeta; first you'll reach the beaches at the fringe of the town but if you keep going you'll eventually reach another of Lazio's best seaside towns: Sperlonga.
If you have a car, you can have great fun exploring the coastal road to the west of Gaeta; first you'll reach the beaches at the fringe of the town but if you keep going you'll eventually reach another of Lazio's best seaside towns: Sperlonga.
Tours & Activities
Comune di Gaeta
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Province: Latina
Region: Lazio Population: 19,332 (in 2024 - source) Size: 28 km² Highlights: Serapo Beach, Grotta del Turco, Port, churches Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025 Fly to: Rome Fiumicino Airport - 1 hour 53 minutes by car (148 km) Close by: Sperlonga, Formia, Ponza, Circeo National Park |
The old town around the port, described as Gaeta Medievale is one of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Where to Stay
Where to Stay
- Hotel Mirasole International Located just a short distance from the beach, this popular hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views, a restaurant serving local seafood, and a large outdoor pool. Guests appreciate the relaxing atmosphere, the proximity to the seafront, and the excellent service. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B Il Giardino delle Palme Situated in a peaceful area near the town centre, this welcoming bed and breakfast features elegant rooms, a beautiful garden, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Visitors enjoy the tranquil setting, the attentive hosts, and the short walk to Gaeta’s main attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Gajeta Set just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, this well-rated hotel offers simple yet comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a bar. Guests value the central location, the friendly staff, and the convenience of being close to Gaeta’s historic sites. €€ (mid-range)
- Case Vacanza La Meridiana A collection of self-catering apartments located near the beach, featuring kitchenettes, private terraces, and air conditioning. Guests enjoy the flexibility of apartment living, the outdoor space, and the proximity to local shops and Gaeta’s seafront. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Florida Located close to both the beach and the town centre, this well-regarded hotel offers spacious rooms, a bar, and free parking. Guests appreciate the excellent location, the clean facilities, and the good value for money. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat
- Magie dei Sapori Ristorante: Situated near the seafront, this restaurant offers a variety of traditional Italian and seafood dishes, including fresh fish and pasta with local sauces. The relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the water make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Antico Vico Gaeta: Located in the historic centre, Antico Vico Gaeta specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, with a menu featuring seafood risotto and fresh pasta dishes. The intimate setting and friendly service make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Salute: Found near the beach, La Salute offers a variety of seafood and Italian dishes, including grilled fish and homemade pasta. The outdoor seating area provides stunning views of the coastline, making it an ideal spot for dining. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria e Friggitoria Da Carrettella: Located near the port, this establishment is known for its traditional Neapolitan pizza and fried seafood. The casual atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a great spot to enjoy a meal while watching the boats go by. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante La Lampara: Situated in the historic centre, La Lampara offers a selection of Italian and seafood dishes, including pasta with anchovies and tomato. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service provide a pleasant dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Nearby Places
Nearby Places
- Formia (approx. 10 km west of Gaeta): A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, Formia offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites. Key attractions include the Roman Theatre of Formia and the Castello di Formia, along with the charming town centre, which provides a relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
- Sperlonga (approx. 20 km southeast of Gaeta): A picturesque town with whitewashed houses and a beautiful coastline, Sperlonga is famous for its sandy beaches and the ancient Villa of Tiberius, where visitors can explore the Archaeological Museum of Sperlonga and the famous sculptures found in the villa's grotto.
- Minturno (approx. 15 km northwest of Gaeta): A town rich in history, Minturno is home to the impressive Roman Theatre of Minturno and the ancient ruins of Aquinum, an important Roman settlement. The town also offers scenic views of the nearby mountains and access to the beaches along the Tyrrhenian Sea.
- Itri (approx. 10 km west of Gaeta): A charming town set in the hills, Itri is known for its medieval castle, the Castello di Itri, and its beautiful old town. Visitors can explore local churches like the Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Terracina (approx. 35 km northwest of Gaeta): A historic town with both Roman and medieval roots, Terracina features the impressive Temple of Jupiter Anxur, offering panoramic views of the coast, and the Cathedral of Terracina. The town is also known for its lively seafront and beautiful beaches.
Lazio Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Lazio
1. Rome
2. Ponza
3. Villa d'Este (Tivoli)
4. Castelli Romani
5. Sperlonga
6. Ostia Antica
7. Cività di Bagnoregio
8. Lake Bracciano
9. Montecassino Abbey
10. Gaeta
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lazio
1. Rome
2. Ponza
3. Villa d'Este (Tivoli)
4. Castelli Romani
5. Sperlonga
6. Ostia Antica
7. Cività di Bagnoregio
8. Lake Bracciano
9. Montecassino Abbey
10. Gaeta
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lazio
Getting There
Getting There
By Rail: Gaeta is served by a train station located in the nearby town of Formia, approximately 8 km away. Formia is a stop on the Rome–Naples railway line, providing connections to major cities. From Formia station, local buses and taxis are available to reach Gaeta, with the journey taking around 15 minutes.
By Road: Gaeta is approximately 140 km southeast of Rome, with a driving time of around 2 hours via the A1 and A2 motorways. From Rome, take the A1 motorway southbound, exit at Cassino, and continue on the SS630 road to Gaeta.
Nearest International Airport:
By Road: Gaeta is approximately 140 km southeast of Rome, with a driving time of around 2 hours via the A1 and A2 motorways. From Rome, take the A1 motorway southbound, exit at Cassino, and continue on the SS630 road to Gaeta.
Nearest International Airport:
- Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino): Located about 100 km southwest of Gaeta, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A1 and A2 motorways. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a train to Naples central station, then proceed as described above.
