Santa  Marinella​

Latest page update: 19 June 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Santa Marinella
Santa Marinella offers a wide choice of established hotels, reflecting its status as one of Lazio’s most popular coastal towns north of Rome. The best-reviewed options combine sea views, comfortable facilities and consistently strong feedback for service and location.
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Villa delle Palme is a leading choice, housed in an elegant Liberty-style villa facing the sea, with stylish rooms, gardens and an on-site restaurant, praised for its charm, comfort and attentive hospitality (€€€). Hotel Cavalluccio Marino provides modern beachfront accommodation with a private beach, pool and restaurant, earning excellent reviews for its facilities, staff and relaxing atmosphere (€€€). For those seeking good value close to the station and town centre, Hotel del Sole offers comfortable rooms, sea views and friendly service, appreciated for its convenience and cleanliness (€€).

Where is

Where is Santa Marinella?
​The seaside town of Santa Marinella is one of the favourite beach resorts for Romans who are attracted by its soft sand and clear waters. Officially situated within the Metropolitan City of Rome Province, it's home to 18,933 residents. 

​Behind the main beach there's an attractive promenade while around the headland just after the beach, there's a marina for private yachts, overlooked by the Castello Odescalchi.
The castle is these days mainly used for weddings and other private functions while another sight of interest is the ancient Roman bridge, the Ponte Romano di Largo Impero which is located east of the marina close to the shoreline. 

​Places of interest close by include Santa Severa, Civitavecchia, the Etruscan Necropolis of Cerveteri and the seaside town of Ladispoli, while the recommended accommodation is the Hotel Villa delle Palme. ​
Comune di Santa Marinella
​​Province: ​Metropolitan City of Rome

Region: ​Lazio

Population: 18,471 (in 2024 - source)

​Size: 49 km²

​Highlights: beaches, marina, Castello Odescalchi, Ponte Romano

Close by: Santa Severa, Civitavecchia, Cerveteri, Ladispoli

Fly to: Rome Fiumicino Airport - 39 minutes by car (56 km)​

What People Ask About Santa Marinella, Lazio

Is Santa Marinella worth visiting?
Yes—Santa Marinella is a popular beach town north of Rome, known for its clear waters, rocky coves, and family-friendly lidos. It offers a more relaxed alternative to busier resorts, with good rail connections and seafront dining.
What are the main attractions in Santa Marinella?
Attractions include the town’s small beaches, the Odescalchi Castle overlooking the sea, and nearby archaeological areas such as Pyrgi. The coastal promenade and seafood restaurants are also key highlights in summer.
How do I get to Santa Marinella?
Santa Marinella has its own train station with direct regional trains from Roma Termini and Civitavecchia (around 45–60 minutes from Rome). It’s also accessible by car via the SS1 Aurelia, with parking near the seafront.
What is Santa Marinella known for?
Santa Marinella is known for its rocky coastline, calm sea, and elegant villas. It’s popular with Roman families and day-trippers for its manageable beaches, good seafood, and peaceful atmosphere.
When is the best time to visit Santa Marinella?
The best time is from June to September when beach clubs and restaurants are open and the sea is warm. Weekdays in early summer are quieter, while weekends in July and August are the busiest.
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Discover

Discover Santa Marinella
Santa Marinella lies along the Tyrrhenian coast in the Metropolitan City of Rome, west of Civitavecchia. Known for its clear waters and rocky coves interspersed with sandy stretches, it has long been a favoured seaside resort for visitors from Rome. The town combines residential areas with elegant villas and seafront promenades, set against the backdrop of gentle coastal hills. Its location on the main railway and coastal road makes it both scenic and easily accessible.
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Historical interest centres on the Odescalchi Castle, which overlooks the small harbour and dates back to the Middle Ages. The coastline around Santa Marinella is also notable for remnants of Etruscan and Roman settlements, linking it to nearby Santa Severa and Cerveteri. With its mild climate, archaeological surroundings, and proximity to the capital, Santa Marinella offers a balance of seaside relaxation and cultural heritage along the Lazio coast.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Santa Marinella
  • Spiaggia di Santa Marinella is a well-maintained beach located close to the town centre, known for its fine sand, calm waters, and easy access. It includes both free sections and managed lidos with sunbeds, umbrellas, and restaurants. The beach is popular with families and ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing by the sea.
  • Castello Odescalchi di Santa Marinella is a seafront castle that dates back to the Middle Ages, later remodelled in the 19th century by the Odescalchi family. Though privately owned and not open to the public, it remains an impressive landmark. The castle overlooks a small beach and can be admired from the promenade and nearby coastal paths.
  • Lungomare Marconi is the main coastal promenade, offering sea views, benches, and access to various bathing areas and beach clubs. It’s a pleasant place for a walk at any time of day, especially around sunset. The promenade also features cafés, gelaterie, and occasional summer events and markets.
  • Villa delle Grottacce is an archaeological site featuring the remains of a Roman villa along the coastline, with fragments of walls, rooms, and ancient bathing structures. The site is not heavily developed but can be explored independently. It offers a quiet setting and insight into the area’s Roman past.
  • Guided kayak or paddleboard excursion along the coast allows visitors to explore small coves, rock formations, and quieter beaches from the water. Tours are suitable for beginners and often include time for swimming and marine life observation. Equipment hire is available locally, with departures from the beach or marina area.

Tours and Activities

Santa Marinella Tours and Activities

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Santa Marinella
  • Ristorante L’Acqua Marina: Set along the seafront with views over the Tyrrhenian Sea, this refined restaurant offers fresh seafood with elegant presentation. Menu highlights include linguine with prawns and courgettes, grilled seabass, and octopus with potatoes. The outdoor terrace is especially popular in summer. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Trattoria del Mare: Located a short walk from the beach, this informal trattoria specialises in local fish dishes such as fried calamari, seafood risotto, and anchovy antipasti. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with generous portions and friendly service. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Ristorante Il Bettolino: Just off the main coastal road, Il Bettolino combines traditional Roman and coastal recipes with seasonal ingredients. Expect dishes like amatriciana, spaghetti with clams, and grilled meats. It’s a versatile choice for lunch or dinner in a cosy setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Pizzeria La Perla Nera: A casual option near the centre, La Perla Nera serves Roman-style thin-crust pizzas along with pasta and salads. With quick service and a lively atmosphere, it’s a good pick for a budget-friendly and satisfying meal. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
  • Gelateria Sottozero: Situated close to the promenade, this popular gelateria offers a rotating selection of handmade gelato, including classic flavours and fruit sorbets. Ideal for a refreshing break after a day at the beach. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Santa Marinella
  • Civitavecchia (approx. 15 km northwest of Santa Marinella): A historic port town known for its maritime heritage, Civitavecchia offers visitors the chance to explore its seafront, the Forte Michelangelo, and local markets. The town also serves as a departure point for ferry services to Sardinia and other Mediterranean destinations. Civitavecchia’s vibrant waterfront is perfect for a leisurely walk or enjoying a meal at a seaside restaurant.
  • Tarquinia (approx. 40 km north of Santa Marinella): Known for its Etruscan history, Tarquinia boasts the Necropolis of Tarquinia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Tarquinia Archaeological Museum. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Tarquinia offers a blend of rich history and scenic landscapes, making it an excellent destination for history enthusiasts.
  • Ladispoli (approx. 15 km south of Santa Marinella): A charming coastal town with beautiful sandy beaches, Ladispoli is ideal for a relaxing seaside retreat. The town offers a quiet seafront promenade and a variety of local seafood restaurants. Visitors can enjoy the beach, explore the historic centre, or visit the nearby Oasis of Palo, a natural reserve perfect for nature walks and birdwatching.
  • Rome (approx. 60 km southeast of Santa Marinella): Italy’s capital city, Rome, is a treasure trove of history and culture, with landmarks such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Vatican City. Visitors can wander through ancient ruins, admire Renaissance art, and relax in lively piazzas. Rome offers an unforgettable experience, with endless attractions and cultural sites to explore.
  • Bracciano (approx. 40 km east of Santa Marinella): A picturesque town on the shores of Lake Bracciano, Bracciano is famous for the Castello Orsini-Odescalchi, a beautiful medieval castle overlooking the lake. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, enjoy the tranquil waters of the lake, and discover the town’s charming streets. Bracciano is perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway with scenic views and historical landmarks.
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

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Santa Marinella
By Rail: Santa Marinella has its own train station on the Pisa–Rome railway line, operated by Trenitalia. Regional trains run frequently between Rome, Civitavecchia, and Grosseto. Journey times are approximately 50 minutes to Roma Termini and 15 minutes to Civitavecchia. The station is located close to the town centre and within easy walking distance of the beach and main shops.

By Road: Santa Marinella is situated on the Tyrrhenian coast of northern Lazio, around 65 kilometres north-west of Rome. It is easily accessible via the A12 motorway and the SS1 Aurelia coastal road. The drive from Rome takes about 1 hour, and from Civitavecchia just 15 minutes. Public parking is available near the seafront, railway station, and town centre.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Rome Fiumicino Airport (Aeroporto di Roma Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci): Located about 50 kilometres south-east, the drive takes approximately 45 minutes. It is the most convenient airport, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
  • Rome Ciampino Airport (Aeroporto di Roma Ciampino G. B. Pastine): Approximately 80 kilometres away, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes by car. It mainly serves low-cost European carriers.
  • Pisa Airport (Aeroporto di Pisa Galileo Galilei): Situated roughly 230 kilometres north-west, the drive takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Private Transfers

Santa Marinella Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a comfortable and efficient way to reach Santa Marinella or continue your journey to other destinations along the Lazio coast. You’ll be collected from your preferred location and taken directly to your destination by a professional driver, providing a smooth and convenient service without the need to rely on trains or buses.

From Santa Marinella, transfers can connect you with Rome Fiumicino Airport, Rome Ciampino Airport, and Rome city centre for onward travel. They are also ideal for visiting nearby coastal towns such as Civitavecchia, Ladispoli, and Santa Severa, or for exploring the beaches, historic landmarks, and natural areas of northern Lazio.
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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.

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