I had an afternoon off and drove south along the coast from Ostia Antica. My turnaround I had an afternoon off and drove south along the coast from Ostia Antica. My turnaround point became Anzio, right on the sea. In the end, there wasn’t much to see there, except that so many were out to eat at that time.
Located about 50 kilometers south of Rome, Anzio is a seaside town with a fascinating mix of history, culture, and Mediterranean charm. Known today as a popular beach destination, it also holds an important place in ancient Roman life and modern World War II history. Walking through Anzio allows you to discover both its beautiful coastline and its layered past.
A stroll often begins along Anzio’s harbor, which has been central to the town since antiquity. This was once the site of the Roman port of Antium, birthplace of emperors Nero and Caligula. Today, fishing boats and yachts fill the marina, while seafood restaurants line the waterfront. The smell of freshly grilled fish drifts through the air, and locals gather for coffee or aperitivo while overlooking the sea.
Continuing along the seafront, walkers find long sandy beaches stretching out in both directions. In summer, Anzio is lively with beachgoers, colorful umbrellas, and the relaxed rhythm of seaside holidays. The Lungomare, or coastal promenade, is ideal for a leisurely walk, offering sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and spectacular sunsets in the evenings.
Moving inland, Anzio reveals its Roman heritage. Scattered ruins still remain, including parts of Nero’s seaside villa, where mosaics and ancient walls testify to the luxury of imperial life. A short walk from the center brings you to the Villa of Nero archaeological site, where you can imagine the grandeur of the emperor’s palace overlooking the waves. The presence of such ruins makes Anzio feel like a living museum, where the ancient world meets the present.
But Anzio is also remembered for its role in World War II. In January 1944, Allied forces landed here in a major operation to liberate Italy from German occupation. Walking through town, you can visit memorials, cemeteries, and museums dedicated to this chapter of history. The Anzio Beachhead Museum preserves photographs, uniforms, and stories of the soldiers who fought here, while the Commonwealth War Cemetery and American Cemetery nearby stand as solemn reminders of the town’s global significance.
In the town center, Anzio offers a welcoming atmosphere with piazzas, markets, and narrow streets filled with small shops. Piazza Pia, the main square, is a lively place where families gather and children play in the evenings. Cafés spill onto sidewalks, offering the perfect spot to sit with a gelato or espresso while watching daily life unfold.
Food is an essential part of any walk through Anzio. The town is renowned for its seafood, especially fresh anchovies, clams, and mussels. Restaurants along the harbor and throughout the town serve traditional dishes like spaghetti alle vongole and frittura di paranza (mixed fried fish), making a meal by the sea an unforgettable part of the experience.
Walking around Anzio is not just a coastal stroll—it’s a journey through layers of Italian history. From Roman emperors to World War II heroes, from sandy beaches to vibrant local life, the town embodies the richness of Italy’s past and present. Whether you come for relaxation by the sea, cultural exploration, or simply the charm of a small Italian town, Anzio offers an authentic and memorable experience just a short trip from Rome.