Lido di Ostia

Lido di Ostia is a coastal resort on the Tyrrhenian Sea that forms part of Rome's southwestern outskirts, stretching along several kilometers of sandy shore near the mouth of the Tiber. Narrow streets lead from the main road to beach sections lined with wooden cabanas, small kiosks, and open stretches between the private bathing areas.

The settlement emerged in the 20th century as a planned seaside resort for Rome, designed to democratize access to the sea and create bathing culture for city residents. Its expansion took place during the 1920s and 1930s with rationalist architecture, transport links, and infrastructure that permanently connected it with the capital.

Residents favor early summer evenings along the waterfront promenades, when families stroll and share gelato at sunset. The seafood markets and small fishermen's restaurants still follow the rhythm of local fishing boats returning with their catch each morning.

The train connection from the city center runs regularly to the terminal station by the sea, from where most beaches and restaurants are within walking distance. Visitors should avoid weekends during summer months, when families from the capital crowd the shore particularly heavily.

The southern beach section borders directly on the extensive excavations of Ostia Antica, allowing visitors to alternate between bathing and touring an ancient city. The preserved Thermae Maritimae from imperial times lie only a few meters from today's shore and once served as bathhouses for Roman dock workers.

Location: Rome

Elevation above the sea: 5 m

GPS coordinates: 41.73324,12.27894

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:01