What to do, where to stay, and where to eat in Gaeta
Gaeta is one of the most beautiful cities in south-central Italy’s Lazio region, yet you won’t find it in many guidebooks. This is primarily because Gaeta does not have a train station. However, it’s an extremely popular summertime destination due to its seven fabulous beaches. Locals and Italians from all over the country flock to these beaches to soak up the sun and watch surfing events.
No matter when you visit, you’ll discover plenty to do. Activities range from hiking Monte Orlando to seeing ancient ruins and wandering the old, narrow streets to shop and eat. Furthermore, being located at the southern end of Lazio allows you to get a taste of southern Italy—great food, friendly residents, a vibrant ambiance, and a rich history that ties everything together.
Gaeta Location
Gaeta is one of the southernmost cities in the Lazio region, the area surrounding Rome. It is located about 58 miles north of Naples on the coastal road, Via Domitiana (road number SS7qtr). Positioned on a peninsula that juts into the Tyrrhenian Sea, it occupies a strategic location on Italy’s west coast.
Transportation to Gaeta
The closest train station is in Formia, accessible by train from both Rome and Naples. A city bus operates from the train station into Gaeta at least every half hour from 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Driving proves to be a good alternative, except in August when beachgoers traveling from Rome and Naples create heavy traffic. The nearest airports are in Naples and Rome.
Transportation in Gaeta
Gaeta features a good bus system, but if you stay downtown, you might not need it except to visit one of the famous beaches outside town. Bus line B takes you from Piazza Traniello to Sant’Agostino, Gaeta’s surfing beach. Additionally, you can take a taxi—perhaps from your hotel to the old city or to Monte Orlando. If arriving by car, it’s important to pay attention to parking regulations.
Gaeta’s Tourist Office
Gaeta’s tourist information office is located in Piazza Traniello, which also serves as the local bus terminus. It’s just a few blocks’ walk from the old city, situated at the tip of the peninsula. You will likely find at least one English-speaking staff member at the tourist office, as Gaeta is home to the U.S. Navy’s Sixth Fleet flagship.
Where to Stay in Gaeta
If you’re arriving by car, Villa Irlanda Grand Hotel, located in a former convent, is a luxurious option. (Tip: Summer weekends are often booked by wedding parties that last well past midnight.) Near the old city, Hotel Gajeta, situated on the Lungomare, is a reliable hotel in a historic building.
The Lions Residence, operated by the English-speaking Viola family, offers apartments equipped with small kitchens for daily or weekly rentals—perfect for budget-conscious travelers or families wishing to prepare their own meals.
Gaeta Gastronomy
If you’re searching for seafood, you’ve come to the right place. Most Gaeta restaurants specialize in dishes featuring local fish and shellfish. You will also find an abundance of Gaeta olives, known worldwide; they come from the nearby town of Itri. Locals will tell you that Tiella di Gaeta is a must-try dish. Tiella resembles a dish prepared in a springform pan, featuring two crusts stuffed with seafood or vegetables, or a combination of both. Pizza remains popular in the evening; most pizzerias open only at night due to the heat of the day.
Gaeta Restaurants
The old city is filled with restaurants, alongside good dining options in hotels and the newer city. If you have a craving for lasagna, be sure to visit Atratino at Via Atratina 141. This upstairs restaurant serves excellent baked pasta, and some staff members speak English. In the old Gaeta, Calpurnio, a tiny restaurant at Vico Caetani 4, is a favorite where outdoor dining is available during summer. The simple menu focuses on seafood dishes and pizza, while Hotel Flamingo also offers delightful pizza. For a more elegant beachfront dining experience, head to Cycas at Via Marina di Serapo 17.
Gaeta Festivals
Festival season begins with Pasquetta, Easter Monday, which serves as a pilgrimage day rather than a rowdy event. Pilgrims gather at the Holy Trinity Sanctuary on Monte Orlando, so it is advisable to avoid this area if you dislike large crowds and tour buses. Gaeta’s patron saint, Sant’Erasmo, is known for protecting sailors and fishermen. His feast day occurs on June 2, and the weekend closest to this day sees festivities filled with fireworks and celebrations, along with the nearby city of Formia. During summer, Sant’Agostino Beach hosts surfing contests. New Year’s Eve is marked by local musicians and dazzling fireworks that sparkle along the coast. Therefore, if you find yourself in Gaeta for New Year’s Eve, securing a room with a view ensures you’ll have a spectacular show of fireworks.
Gaeta Beaches and Top Attractions
During August, Gaeta’s hotels and beaches become packed, reflective of Italy’s vacation month. Nonetheless, there is much to do and see at any time of the year. Below are some of the most popular attractions and activities in Gaeta, Italy:
- Gaeta’s seven beaches are justifiably beloved, featuring sparkling water, fine white sand, and well-managed lidos (pay-to-use beaches). Most visitors gravitate towards Serapo Beach, the closest to downtown. Surfers, however, know that the finest waves (and sunsets) can be found at Sant’Agostino Beach, which is to the north of town and served by Bus Line B.
- Monte Orlando, the prominent hill that separates new Gaeta from the old city, has been designated as an urban nature park. Hike to the summit for breathtaking views of the sea. On the mountain, you will also discover the ancient Roman Mausoleum of Lucius Muniatus Plancus.
- Don’t miss Montagna Spaccata, or Split Mountain, located on Monte Orlando. To reach it, enter the Sanctuary of the Holy Trinity, a monastery complex operated by the missionary P.I.M.E. Fathers. Follow signs to the Grotta del Turco (Grotto of the Turk) and journey with the crowds. The cliffs that overlook the sea are split from top to bottom. Locals narrate that this mountain was severed in two at the moment Christ died on Calvary. A path leads down to the Grotto, where visitors can explore this cavern, reshaped by the sea.
- The Capella d’Oro (Golden Chapel), located in the Annunziata church, gained fame through Pope Pius IX. He was in exile in Gaeta when he officially proclaimed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of Mary from this chapel on December 8, 1854.
- Gaeta’s charming old city caters to diverse tastes. Stroll along the Lungomare (sea road) and observe local fishermen in action. Look up to see the formidable walls of the Angevin-Aragonese castle towering over the city. Unfortunately, the castle is off-limits to visitors as it is utilized by the Italian military. The Romanesque bell tower, tucked away between buildings in the old city, dates back to 915. Approach it to examine the intricate building materials, which include repurposed stones from ancient structures. Don’t forget to treat yourself to gelato at Il Molo or El Tiburon, located at the far end of the old city in Piazza del Pesce.
