Castelli Romani
Local Experiences
Discover the best of Frascati and the surrounding Castelli Romani — from ancient Roman ruins to exceptional restaurants and centuries-old wineries, all within minutes of Villa Aura.
Fondi dal 1936 Grottaferrata
The Grottaferrata branch of the beloved Fondi family restaurant, serving traditional Castelli Romani cuisine since 1936. A local institution known for hearty Roman dishes, fresh pasta, and excellent house wine in a warm, unpretentious setting.
Ristorante Pagnanelli
A historic restaurant overlooking Lake Albano and Castel Gandolfo — the Pope's summer residence. One of the most celebrated dining destinations in the Castelli Romani, combining exceptional traditional Roman cuisine with breathtaking views that have attracted guests for over a century.
Pasticceria Purificato Renata Di M Minotti Sas
The best place in Frascati to taste the authentic local Pupazza Frascatana cake — a traditional pastry unique to Frascati. This family pastry shop has perfected regional sweets and baked goods for generations, a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Il Ramo d'Oro
A charming restaurant perched above the volcanic crater lake of Nemi, offering stunning panoramic views and refined Italian cuisine. Famous for its wild strawberries (fragoline di bosco) and fish dishes, with an unforgettable terrace overlooking the lake.
Fondi dal 1936 Frascati
A classic Italian bar in the best sense — great espresso, fresh cornetti in the morning, and a buzzing social scene. Fondi is where locals start their day. With locations in both Frascati and Grottaferrata, it's the perfect pit stop.
Cantina Il Pergolato
A local gem blending the ancient Roman tradition of pinsa with a warm trattoria spirit. La Bottega Frascatana serves some of the most authentic pinsa romana in the area, alongside classic local dishes. An essential Frascati experience.
Merumalia Organic Wines
Right next door to Villa Aura, Merumalia produces certified organic wines from ancient volcanic soils — the same hills that the Roman aristocracy once prized for their vineyards. Their wines express the true terroir of the Castelli Romani with minimal intervention. A must-visit for natural wine lovers.
Tenuta di Pietra Porzia Srl
A historic estate producing some of the finest Frascati DOC wines, including excellent white wines that have represented this territory for generations. Pietra Porzia combines history with modern winemaking — their estate is also a beautiful event space surrounded by vineyards.
Ristorante da Valerio
A beloved local institution known for its honest, generous Roman cooking. Valerio is the kind of trattoria where locals go for Sunday lunch — hearty pasta, grilled meats, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family.
Lago di Nemi & Temple of Diana
Cradled in the crater of an ancient volcano, Lago di Nemi was the most sacred lake to the ancient Romans — the home of the Temple of Diana, goddess of the hunt and the moon. The energy around this lake remains extraordinarily special even today. The town of Nemi above perches dramatically over the water and is famous for its fragole di bosco (wild strawberries). Visit the National Museum of Roman Ships nearby for a glimpse of the spectacular vessels Caligula built on these waters.
Sushi Kura
A surprising and delightful find in the Castelli Romani hills — Sushi Kura serves fresh, high-quality Japanese cuisine that has earned a loyal following among locals. A great option when you want something different after days of exploring Italian cuisine.
Bar degli Specchi
Located in the heart of Frascati's main piazza, Caffè dello Specchio is famous for one thing above all: exceptional coffee. Standing at the bar with a perfectly pulled espresso, watching the square come to life, is one of those simple Italian pleasures that stays with you.
Poggio le Volpi Enoteca Wine & Food
A vibrant, modern winery producing fresh and food-friendly wines from the Castelli Romani. Poggio delle Volpe is known for their approachable style and fun, design-forward labels. Great for those new to the Frascati DOC zone who want an accessible introduction.
Azienda Biologica De Sanctis
One of the most unique wine experiences in the region. De Sanctis ages their wines in ancient underground cellars carved into the volcanic tufo rock, accompanied by classical music — a centuries-old practice said to enhance fermentation. Touring these caves is an unforgettable sensory experience.
Tuscolo (Tusculum) Ancient Site
Directly behind Villa Aura, rising through the forest, is the ancient city of Tusculum — one of the most important towns in ancient Latium. Here Roman emperors, senators and Cicero himself had their country villas. The ruins include a theatre, forum, and amphitheatre, all reclaimed by nature. On a clear day the views from the summit stretch all the way to Rome. A genuinely magical place.
All experiences are personally curated by the Villa Aura hosts.
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