Inside Lake Bracciano: a peaceful spot to escape Rome's crowd

Just outside of Rome lies a peaceful oasis: Lake Bracciano. Surrounded by nature and scenic beauty, it's the perfect spot to escape the chaos and heat of the city for a day, or even a relaxing weekend.

Its clear, swimmable waters are ideal for all types of water sports, and its shores are lined with picturesque villages rich in history and charm, like the medieval Orsini-Odescalchi Castle in Bracciano, chosen by actor Tom Cruise for his wedding.

Lake Bracciano is volcanic in origin, dating back to prehistoric times. Together with nearby Lake Martignano, it forms part of the Bracciano–Martignano Regional Nature Park, a lush and protected green area surrounded by the Sabatini Mountains.

Thanks to the park's protection, boat traffic is limited, making the waters calm and perfect for a wide range of Lake Bracciano activities: sailing, windsurfing, kite-surfing, canoeing, rowing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and even scuba diving.

Located just an hour’s drive north of Rome, this lake is among the most popular day trips lakes. It lies in the historic area of Tuscia and is bordered by the charming towns of Trevignano Romano, Anguillara Sabazia, and Bracciano itself.

In addition to its calm waters, one of the best lakes near Rome offers enchanting villages along its shores. By evening, they look like something out of a postcard.

Bracciano, the town that gives the lake its name, sits on the western shore and is dominated by the majestic Orsini-Odescalchi Castle, open to visitors year-round. The town is perfect for exploring on foot: cobblestone streets and volcanic stone houses give it authentic character. 

On the opposite shore lies Anguillara Sabazia, a medieval village perched on a slope with breathtaking views.

To the north, Trevignano Romano offers a more relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for a peaceful lakeside walk.

If you’re looking for the perfect Rome day trips lake, this is it, especially in spring, summer, or early fall. Whether you're into water sports, swimming, or hiking, Lake Bracciano activities suit all kinds of travelers.

This lake meets all expectations:

• Active adventurers can enjoy a variety of sports,

• Urban escapees will find peace and tranquility,

• Nature lovers can lose themselves in stunning landscapes,

• Food lovers will enjoy delicious lake fish dishes in charming lakeside restaurants.

Whether you're coming by car or train, reaching one of the best lakes near Rome is easy.

By train: Take the FL3 line from Rome to Bracciano or Anguillara Sabazia—making it an ideal option for Rome day trips. Trains depart every 30 minutes and the journey takes about an hour.

By car: Multiple access routes from both the north and south of Rome make the lake easy to reach in under an hour.

If you want to extend your visit, the surroundings offer even more:

• The Italian Air Force Historical Museum,

• Lake Vico and the Farnese Palace in Caprarola,

• The Tuscia Viterbese with castles, murals, and wines,

• The Banditaccia Necropolis (UNESCO site) in Cerveteri,

• And the scenic Castle of Santa Severa, in Lazio Etruria, especially vibrant in summer.

A few tips to recap: the best time to visit Lake Bracciano is the warm season, from spring to autumn. A day trip from Rome or a weekend getaway is ideal. The journey will take approximately an hour by car, and Bracciano is also connected by train.

In Bracciano, you can enjoy all kinds of water sports, including renting boats and small craft on the shore for a self-guided tour. Visits to the villages of Bracciano, Trevignano Romano, and Anguillara Sabazia are recommended. Bracciano Castle can be visited year-round and requires an entrance fee. Near the lakeside promenade of the three villages, there are interesting and picturesque restaurants where you can stop for a meal.

By train via the FL3 line, or by car using the GRA and Cassia Veientana.

Sailing, windsurfing, SUP, scuba diving, hiking, biking, and visiting lakeside villages.

Yes, it’s ideal for families with children.

Yes, there are public beaches and private facilities.

Absolutely. A 15th-century castle with amazing lake views and a fascinating history.