Once one of the most powerful cities of the ancient Etruscan League, Tarquinia is now famous for its UNESCO-listed painted tombs, alongside a well-preserved medieval hilltop old town.

Why Visit Tarquinia

Tarquinia offers some of the finest surviving Etruscan wall paintings anywhere in the world, providing a rare and colorful glimpse into a civilization that predates and shaped early Rome.

Top Experiences

  • Necropoli dei Monterozzi: Descend into painted Etruscan tombs decorated with vivid frescoes of banquets, dancing, and mythology.
  • Museo Archeologico Nazionale Tarquiniese: View Etruscan artifacts including the famous winged horses relief, housed in a Gothic palace in town.
  • Tarquinia Old Town: Wander the medieval streets and towers of this hilltop city overlooking the coastal plain.
  • Chiesa di Santa Maria in Castello: Visit this Romanesque church, one of the finest medieval buildings in Tarquinia.
  • Tarquinia Lido: Relax at the town’s nearby beach on the Tyrrhenian coast after a morning of sightseeing.
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Ponza, boat trip on board the Zannone 1954

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Pasta and Tiramisu Making Class with Fine Italian Wine in Rome

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From USD 110.76
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Practical Tips

  • Buy a combined ticket for the necropolis and archaeological museum, as both are essential to understanding Etruscan Tarquinia.
  • Tomb visits involve descending narrow stairs, so wear sturdy shoes and expect cooler underground temperatures.
  • Tarquinia pairs well with nearby Cerveteri for a full day of Etruscan history.

FAQ

What is Tarquinia known for?
Tarquinia is known for its UNESCO-listed painted Etruscan tombs and its well-preserved medieval old town.

Is Tarquinia a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, the Necropoli dei Monterozzi was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Cerveteri in 2004.

How far is Tarquinia from Rome?
Tarquinia is about 90 kilometers from Rome, roughly a 90-minute drive or train ride.