The Perfect City Escape in Gaeta
- Anya
- Aug 8
- 2 min read
Exploring Gaeta on Foot: From Serapo Beach to Borgo Elena
Sometimes, Rome gets a little too loud, too hot, or just too much. When that happens, you don’t need a grand plan, just a train ticket, a swimsuit, and maybe a craving for Tiella di Gaeta. This little coastal location is one of the best day trips from Rome, and honestly, you’ll want to stay the night.
We kicked things off bright and early, catching the train to Formia-Gaeta station (about 1.5 hours from Rome) and hopping on the free hotel shuttle paired with a Cotral bus ride.
Local tip: always check those Cotral schedules; they run on their own time zone.
By late morning, we were checked in and hungry, so we headed to Briobar. This no-frills spot is the local go-to for the famous Tiella, Gaeta’s iconic stuffed flatbread. We went for one with ham and cheese, another with octopus. Two happy bellies, 20 euros!
The afternoon was all about maximum chill at Serapo Beach, one of the best beaches near Rome with calm, swimmable water. After a nap under the umbrella and a lazy float in the sea, we strolled along the coast, letting the sea breeze do its thing.
By early evening, we wandered to the port area, where the evening market hums with local life. We dined at La Tana di Cagliostro, a charming restaurant with tables in a vicolo, and friendly service. a charming restaurant tucked into a vicolo. The fish with the vegetables was delicious, and the pasta was even better. Definitely save this one for your where to eat in Gaeta list.
The next morning, we were back at Serapo, this time hitting the free beach early to beat the crowds. Then it was time to get cultural in Borgo Elena, Gaeta’s historic heart. We climbed to the Church of San Francesco for views straight out of a screensaver.
Lunch was at Pizzeria del Porto di Carlo Avallone, with a stunning view of the Port and the boat tours departing from there. Local tip: order the Tiella with salsiccia and the focaccia with cherry tomatoes, they're delicious!
And treat yourself to a gelato from Il Molo, it made the stroll back through Borgo Elena to the colorful streets of Via dell’Indipendenza and Piazza Goliarda Sapienza extra sweet.
We grabbed the bus back to Formia-Gaeta station and were back in Rome by evening, sandy shoes and all. This Gaeta travel guide might have started as a one-night plan, but next time, we’re staying longer because there are more things to do in Gaeta!
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