Sperlonga is a coastal gem located between Rome and Naples, offering travelers a peaceful beach escape with ancient charm and Mediterranean beauty that continues to surprise travelers. This picture-perfect town on the Tyrrhenian Sea is part of the Lazio region’s Riviera di Ulisse—a stretch of coastline known for its historic significance, crystal-clear waters, and natural beauty. Once a retreat for Roman emperors, today’s Sperlonga blends that ancient allure with modern comfort, offering an ideal escape for European tourists in search of serenity, sun, and culture.
Getting to Sperlonga: Easy Access from Rome
One of Sperlonga’s greatest advantages is its accessibility. For travelers wondering how to get to Sperlonga, the journey is simple and scenic.
By train: From Roma Termini, board a regional Trenitalia train bound for Naples and disembark at Fondi-Sperlonga station (approx. 1 hour and 10 minutes). Trains are frequent and affordable.
Shuttle/bus: Outside Fondi-Sperlonga station, local Cotral buses and private shuttles depart regularly for Sperlonga’s historic center and beaches (approx. 15 minutes).
By car: From Rome, drive south via the SS148 and SS213 coastal roads. The journey takes roughly two hours and rewards you with stunning views of cliffs and Mediterranean blue.
Parking in Sperlonga: Parking is available in multiple paid lots. In high season, spaces near the historic center fill quickly, so arriving early or using shuttle buses is recommended.
Top Things to Do in Sperlonga
Sperlonga offers a unique mix of nature, culture, and laid-back leisure. Here’s what not to miss:
Explore the Historic Center
The town’s old quarter is a delightful labyrinth of narrow, whitewashed lanes that cascade down the hillside. As you wander, you’ll pass flower-draped balconies, artisan shops, and panoramic terraces. The architecture evokes a Mediterranean charm reminiscent of Santorini or Mykonos, but with an authentic Italian heart.
Torre Truglia
Standing tall at the tip of the promontory, this 16th-century watchtower is Sperlonga’s most iconic landmark. Originally built to protect against Saracen pirates, it now serves as a small museum and scenic viewpoint.
Villa di Tiberio and the Archaeological Museum
Once Emperor Tiberius’ summer villa, this ancient site features well-preserved Roman architecture, a dramatic coastal grotto, and a museum that showcases mythological sculptures. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday, with a €5 entry fee. Many of the displayed pieces were recovered from the Grotta di Tiberio and depict scenes from Homer’s Odyssey, including Odysseus and the Cyclops.
Relax on Sperlonga’s Blue Flag Beaches
Sperlonga boasts multiple Blue Flag beaches, a certification awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) that recognizes beaches meeting high standards of cleanliness, water quality, safety, and sustainability. Top beaches include:
Lido Beluga
Great for families, with shallow water and full services.
Levante Beach
Located east of the old town, this wide stretch offers scenic sunsets.
Bazzano Beach
Popular among younger crowds for its chill vibe and proximity to beach clubs.
Lido Grotta dei Delfini and Lido Sperlonga
Highly rated on TripAdvisor for their soft sand, clear water, and accessibility.
Most beaches offer sun loungers, umbrellas, bars, and restrooms. Some also provide paddleboard and kayak rentals.
VIP Boat Tour: Le Sette Spiagge
Rather than hopping on a crowded ferry, opt for the VIP private boat tour “Le Sette Spiagge,” which lasts about 3 hours. This highly-rated experience explores seven stunning coves and beaches around Sperlonga “Le Sette Spiagge.”** This highly-rated experience explores seven stunning coves and beaches around Sperlonga. Swim in turquoise bays, explore sea caves, and enjoy a relaxed cruise along the coast. It’s a perfect way to see Sperlonga’s rugged shoreline from the water.
Local Markets & Shopping
On weekends and during festivals, Sperlonga’s piazzas fill with colorful markets offering handmade pottery, local wine, olive oil, beachwear, and souvenirs. Many shops stay open late in summer, perfect for an evening stroll.
Water Sports & Active Travel
Looking to stay active? Sperlonga offers snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and hiking trails along the coastline. The Via Flacca, a scenic route from Terracina to Gaeta, is a favorite among cyclists.
Where to Stay in Sperlonga
Accommodation options in Sperlonga suit a range of tastes and budgets. For easier planning, they can be grouped into luxury hotels, mid-range options, family resorts, and beach clubs. Book early, especially for peak months (June to September).
Best Hotels in Sperlonga
🔍Hotel Aurora – Rating: 9.5/10 – Exceptional
Family-run hotel right on the beach with a private area, sea-view bar, and garden. Spotless rooms and warm, personal service.
🔍Ganimede Hotel – Rating: 8.8/10 – Excellent
Stylish hotel with a large pool, sun terrace, and access to a reserved beach. Free parking included.
🔍Hotel Corallo Sperlonga – Rating: 9.4/10 – Wonderful
Boutique hotel in the old town with sea-view rooms and a panoramic rooftop terrace. Cozy and central location.
🔍Moresco Park Hotel – Rating: 9.0/10 – Wonderful
Peaceful hotel on a hilltop with sea views from every room. Ideal for a relaxing, nature-surrounded stay.
🔍Hotel Belvedere – Rating: 8.8/10 – Fabulous
Friendly, family-run hotel with a lemon-tree garden and great views over the old town. Free parking, walkable to the center.
Best Villas in Sperlonga
1. 🔍A’Mare da Marco Loft – Rating: 9.9/10 – Exceptional
Modern, stylish loft just 8 minutes from the beach. Bright interiors, compact kitchen, ideal for couples seeking comfort and location.
2. 🔍Villetta con Discesa Mare – Rating: 9.8/10 – Exceptional
Beachfront cottage with private garden and direct path to the sea. Sea-view terrace and free parking make it perfect for beach lovers.
3. 🔍Domus Thalia – Rating: 9.7/10 – Exceptional
Private villa with a garden, sea-facing terrace, and free parking. Peaceful setting with beautiful sunsets and total privacy.
4. 🔍Casa Vacanze Nikita – Rating: 9.7/10 – Exceptional
Family-friendly house with a small private beach area, shaded patio, and parking. Quiet location, still close to town.
5. 🔍Villa Epi – Rating: 9.6/10 – Exceptional
Charming seaside villa right on the coast. Offers sea-view rooms, large breakfasts, and an attentive host. Great for relaxing stays.
Best Apartments in Sperlonga
1. 🔍Residenza Ottaviano Boutique Apartments – Rating: 9.8/10 – Exceptional
Stylish, newly renovated suites just 4 minutes from the beach. Features chic décor, balconies with views, and fast Wi-Fi. Perfect for couples in the historic center.
2. 🔍apARTments Sperlonga – Rating: 9.7/10 – Exceptional
Modern apartments with full kitchens, lift access, free parking, and laundry facilities. Short walk to the beach. Excellent for longer stays.
3. 🔍Casa Omero – Rating: 9.6/10 – Exceptional
Bright two-bedroom apartment right on the beachfront. Includes private parking, a furnished patio, and a peaceful location near cafés.
4. 🔍Appartamento dei Nonni di Gio e Cry – Rating: 9.5/10 – Exceptional
Spacious and family-friendly, just 100 meters from the sea. Fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, and close to local shops and restaurants.
5. 🔍Vento Verde Apartments – Rating: 9.4/10 – Wonderful
Scenic apartments with sea-view terraces, a saltwater pool, and free beach-club access. Peaceful hilltop setting just minutes from the town and beach.
What to Eat in Sperlonga
Sperlonga’s food scene is rooted in tradition, simplicity, and freshness.
Tiella di Gaeta
This savory pie has a soft, pizza-like crust filled with ingredients like octopus, anchovies, or vegetables. For authentic Tiella di Gaeta, check local bakeries or beach stands near Via Roma and Piazza Europa.
Seafood Dishes
With the sea at its doorstep, Sperlonga excels in seafood: grilled calamari, frittura di paranza (mixed fried fish), spaghetti alle vongole (clams), and stuffed mussels are common on menus.
Local Specialties
Olives from Gaeta – Small, tangy, and excellent in salads or as a snack.
Buffalo mozzarella – Fresh from the nearby Agro Pontino area.
Cesanese & Bellone wines – Local Lazio wines perfect for pairing with seafood.
Don’t miss gelato at artisanal spots near the main piazza.
When to Visit: Sperlonga Weather Guide
The best time to visit Sperlonga is late spring through early fall:
May–June: Ideal beach weather (24–26°C), fewer crowds.
July–August: Peak season. Hot days (30–33°C), festivals, and lively nightlife.
September–October: Warm seas, thinning crowds, harvest season vibes.
Water temperatures hover around 24–26°C from June to early October, making swimming pleasant well into the autumn.
Local Events and Festivals
Sperlonga celebrates its heritage and flavors with events that attract both locals and visitors:
Festa di San Leone & San Rocco (early September): Fireworks, religious processions, and beach concerts.
Sagra della Tiella: Celebrate the region’s most beloved pie with tastings and cooking demos.
Jazz Nights by the Sea: Outdoor jazz concerts under the stars in July and August.
Art Exhibits & Artisan Fairs: Local artists showcase their work in pop-up galleries around the old town.
Itineraries & Day Trips
Make Sperlonga your base to explore more of the Riviera di Ulisse and Lazio coast:
Terracina: Known for its Roman temple and beach promenade.
Gaeta: Visit Montagna Spaccata, the medieval castle, and the serene beach of Serapo.
San Felice Circeo: Hike in the Circeo National Park and explore grottos by boat.
Pontine Islands: Fast ferry to Ponza or Palmarola for day-long island escapes
Sustainable Travel Tips
Use public transport to reduce traffic and emissions.
Carry a reusable bottle—public fountains are safe and common.
Shop local—support artisans and local farmers.
Respect beach etiquette—no plastic litter, no smoking signs, and recycling bins.
FAQs About Sperlonga
Is Sperlonga good for families?
Yes. Beaches are clean, waters are shallow, and resorts are family-oriented.
Can I visit without a car?
Absolutely. The train + shuttle combo makes car-free travel easy.
Are the beaches sandy or rocky?
Most are sandy with gradual entry, ideal for kids and sunbathing.
Is it expensive?
Sperlonga is more affordable than Amalfi or Cinque Terre, but prices rise in peak season.
Is Sperlonga crowded?
Not like Italy’s major beach towns. Even in summer, it retains a relaxed atmosphere.
Final Thoughts: Why Visit Sperlonga?
Sperlonga offers a rare balance—an Italian beach town steeped in history, where you can explore Emperor Tiberius’ cliffside villa by day and relax on Blue Flag beaches by evening, yet blissfully free from overwhelming crowds. With its sun-bleached buildings, ancient ruins, sparkling seas, and unforgettable food, it’s a destination that rewards every kind of traveler. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family beach break, or a slow-travel escape—Sperlonga promises warmth, beauty, and authenticity.
Book your trip to Sperlonga today and discover why it’s one of Lazio’s most enchanting coastal destinations.
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!
