Rieti
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Latest page update: 19 June 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Rieti
Rieti offers a good selection of established hotels, reflecting its role as the main town of the Sabina area and a convenient base for exploring the surrounding countryside and mountains. The best-reviewed options balance comfort, location and professional service, catering to both leisure and business travellers.
Grande Albergo Quattro Stagioni stands out for its elegant rooms within a historic palazzo, featuring refined interiors, a restaurant and bar, earning excellent reviews for comfort, hospitality and central location (€€€). Hotel Cavour provides modern accommodation overlooking the Velino River, with on-site dining and convenient access to the old town, appreciated for its cleanliness and friendly staff (€€). For those seeking a quieter stay, Park Hotel Villa Potenziani offers a grand villa setting with gardens, a pool and panoramic views, praised for its charm, service and peaceful surroundings (€€€).
Grande Albergo Quattro Stagioni stands out for its elegant rooms within a historic palazzo, featuring refined interiors, a restaurant and bar, earning excellent reviews for comfort, hospitality and central location (€€€). Hotel Cavour provides modern accommodation overlooking the Velino River, with on-site dining and convenient access to the old town, appreciated for its cleanliness and friendly staff (€€). For those seeking a quieter stay, Park Hotel Villa Potenziani offers a grand villa setting with gardens, a pool and panoramic views, praised for its charm, service and peaceful surroundings (€€€).
Where is
Where is Rieti?
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The city of Rieti is the capital city of the Province of Rieti with a population of 47,149 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 405 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 206 km² and lies 80 kilometres north east of Rome, the capital city of Lazio. The main sights of Rieti include its cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta), its city walls and the Ponte Romano bridge. The city's Piazza San Rufo is considered the exact centre of Italy. |
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The main square in Rieti is Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II and from here you can easily reach the main sights on foot. Local buses are available to reach the smaller towns in the local area while the city also has a train station, located a 7 minute walk from the centre, around 500 metres away.
Comune di Rieti
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Province Rieti
Region: Lazio Population: 45,273 (in 2024 - source) Size: 206 km² Elevation: 405 metres Highlights: Rieti Cathedral, Ponte Romano, city walls Close by: Rieti Valley, Greccio, Castel di Tora, Lake Turano, Foglia |
What People Ask About Rieti, Lazio
Is Rieti worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Rieti?
How do I get to Rieti?
What is Rieti known for?
When is the best time to visit Rieti?
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Discover
Discover Rieti
Rieti, located in northern Lazio, stands near the geographical centre of Italy and serves as the provincial capital. The town lies in the Velino Valley, surrounded by the Sabine Hills and close to the Apennine Mountains, giving it a distinctive inland landscape. Its origins date back to the Sabine civilisation and later the Roman period, when it was known as Reate. The historic centre is enclosed by walls built during the Middle Ages and retains a well-preserved network of streets and piazzas.
Among the town’s landmarks are the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Palazzo Comunale, and the Bishop’s Palace, each reflecting centuries of religious and civic history. The Rieti Underground allows visitors to explore sections of ancient Roman architecture beneath the modern streets. The nearby Lago di Piediluco and the Franciscan sanctuaries of the Rieti Valley, including Greccio and Fontecolombo, are notable sites connected with Saint Francis of Assisi, linking Rieti to both natural and spiritual heritage.
Among the town’s landmarks are the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Palazzo Comunale, and the Bishop’s Palace, each reflecting centuries of religious and civic history. The Rieti Underground allows visitors to explore sections of ancient Roman architecture beneath the modern streets. The nearby Lago di Piediluco and the Franciscan sanctuaries of the Rieti Valley, including Greccio and Fontecolombo, are notable sites connected with Saint Francis of Assisi, linking Rieti to both natural and spiritual heritage.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Rieti
- Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta is the city’s main cathedral, originally built in the 12th century and later modified with Baroque additions. Beneath the church lies a Roman cryptoporticus, which can be visited through guided tours. The cathedral square also includes a Renaissance portico and the 13th-century bell tower.
- Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II is the heart of the city and features a large fountain, surrounding arcades, and several elegant palazzi. It's a popular meeting place for locals and often hosts outdoor markets and public events. From the square, narrow streets lead to historic landmarks and riverside walks.
- Underground Rieti (Rieti Sotterranea) is a network of Roman and medieval tunnels and vaults located beneath the modern city streets. Guided tours explore these hidden passageways, showcasing ancient roads, arches, and foundations. The experience reveals layers of the city’s past and how it was built upon earlier settlements.
- Ponte Romano sul Velino is an ancient Roman bridge that still crosses the Velino River and forms part of the city’s historic infrastructure. The riverbanks nearby offer a pleasant setting for walking or relaxing, and the bridge provides views of the old town and surrounding hills. It reflects Rieti’s long-standing role as a strategic location.
- Guided walking tour of the Franciscan sites around Rieti includes visits to sanctuaries and convents associated with the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, such as Fonte Colombo and Greccio. These sites are located in the surrounding countryside and offer a mix of religious history, woodland trails, and panoramic views. Tours can be completed in a half or full day.
Tours and Activities
Rieti Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Rieti
- Ristorante Da Checco: Located near the historic centre, Da Checco is a refined restaurant offering traditional Sabine cuisine with elegant presentation. Dishes include homemade tagliolini with truffle, grilled lamb cutlets, and chestnut-based desserts. The quiet, well-kept dining room makes it a reliable choice for special occasions. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria le Tre Porte: Tucked just inside the old city walls, this inviting osteria specialises in local and seasonal dishes. Favourites include lentil soup from nearby Leonessa, pork with wild fennel, and handmade gnocchi. The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is rustic and warm. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria da Lina: A casual eatery with a long-standing reputation among locals, Da Lina serves hearty Roman and Rieti-area dishes. Menu staples include carbonara, saltimbocca, and seasonal vegetable sides. It's a great spot for a generous, traditional meal without formality. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Il Bersagliere: Situated just outside the city walls, this laid-back pizzeria offers a large selection of thin-crust pizzas along with fried starters and salads. With quick service and affordable prices, it’s ideal for a relaxed evening with family or friends. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Gelateria Ciuccula: Found on a central street, Ciuccula is known for its creamy gelato and creative flavours made with natural ingredients. Popular choices include hazelnut, ricotta and fig, and lemon sorbet. A popular stop for both locals and visitors. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Rieti Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Rieti
- Cittaducale (approx. 15 km northeast of Rieti): A small town with a rich medieval history, Cittaducale offers visitors the chance to explore its charming old town and the historic Chiesa di Santa Maria. Surrounded by beautiful hills, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy both history and nature. The town is a peaceful destination, ideal for hiking and exploring the surrounding landscapes.
- Greccio (approx. 15 km southwest of Rieti): Famous for its connection to St. Francis of Assisi, Greccio is known for the Sacro Bosco di San Francesco and its historical religious significance. Visitors can explore the Eremo di San Francesco, where St. Francis created the first living nativity scene. Greccio offers stunning views over the surrounding valleys, making it a great spot for history and nature lovers.
- Amatrice (approx. 40 km northeast of Rieti): A town known for its traditional cuisine, particularly the famous Amatriciana pasta, Amatrice is set in the stunning Apennine mountains. Visitors can explore its picturesque streets, enjoy local food, and take in the breathtaking mountain views. Amatrice offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities.
- Antrodoco (approx. 30 km northwest of Rieti): A peaceful town located in the heart of the Lazio Apennines, Antrodoco offers a serene atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can explore its medieval architecture, including the Chiesa di San Giovanni, and enjoy hiking or cycling in the surrounding mountains. Antrodoco is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Camerino (approx. 60 km northeast of Rieti): A historic town located in the Marche region, Camerino offers visitors a mix of cultural heritage and scenic beauty. The town is known for its Camerino Castle and the University of Camerino, one of the oldest universities in Italy. Surrounded by rolling hills, Camerino is a charming destination with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
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
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Rieti
By train you can reach Rome Tiburtina station in just under two hours and the same train includes stops along the way in Terni (Umbria) and Lazio's hill town of Orte.
By car you can reach Rome in 1 hour 26 minutes (80 km) or the fellow provincial capitals as follows: Viterbo - 1 hr 16 minutes (93 km), Frosinone - 1 hour 47 minutes (147 km) or Latina in 2 hours 8 minutes (161 km).
The two most convenient airports for Rieti are Rome Fiumicino and Rome Ciampino; in terms of journey time there's nothing between them, both are reachable in an hour and 25 minutes but Ciampino is the slightly closer of the two geographically: 94 kilometres away.
By car you can reach Rome in 1 hour 26 minutes (80 km) or the fellow provincial capitals as follows: Viterbo - 1 hr 16 minutes (93 km), Frosinone - 1 hour 47 minutes (147 km) or Latina in 2 hours 8 minutes (161 km).
The two most convenient airports for Rieti are Rome Fiumicino and Rome Ciampino; in terms of journey time there's nothing between them, both are reachable in an hour and 25 minutes but Ciampino is the slightly closer of the two geographically: 94 kilometres away.
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By car: Viterbo - 1 hr 16 mins (93 km), Rome - 1 hr 29 mins (80 km)
Fly to: Rome Ciampino 1 hr 23 mins, Rome Fiumicino - 1 hr 24 mins |
Private Transfers
Rieti Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and efficient way to reach Rieti or travel onwards to other towns and cities across Lazio and central Italy. You’ll be picked up from your chosen location and driven directly to your destination by a professional driver, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
From Rieti, transfers can connect you with Rome Fiumicino Airport, Rome Ciampino Airport, and Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport. They are also convenient for visiting nearby towns such as Greccio, Contigliano, and Amatrice, or for exploring the natural landscapes of the Sabine Hills and the Monti Reatini area.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Rieti, transfers can connect you with Rome Fiumicino Airport, Rome Ciampino Airport, and Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport. They are also convenient for visiting nearby towns such as Greccio, Contigliano, and Amatrice, or for exploring the natural landscapes of the Sabine Hills and the Monti Reatini area.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
