8 Things to Do in Gaeta, Italy (Beaches, Views and Great Food)
Okay, it is time for a confession session. My second blog post ever was about Gaeta, back when only my mom and my best friend were reading my blog. I recently went back to that article, and I like to think my blogging skills have significantly improved, because, well… to say the least, that article was un bel casino, as they say in Italy, quite a mess.
That old article has now been transformed into a complete guide on how to travel from Rome to Gaeta. In this post, I will share the perfect guide on what to do in Gaeta once you are there. This list includes culture, nature, and of course delicious food, so you are more than prepared when visiting this stunning destination.
About Gaeta
Hidden between Rome and Naples, Gaeta is a charming coastal town, perfect for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure. As an active vacationer, I always need the option to explore once I’m done relaxing on the beach. Gaeta often flies under the radar when visiting this region, yet it offers a beautiful combination of historical allure and natural beauty.
Gaeta’s history stretches back over two thousand years, which is reflected in the landmarks of the old town. The Castello Angioino-Aragonese is a perfect example of this, a stunning castle that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Tip: I have also written a guide on how to travel to Gaeta from Rome, so if you are planning a visit, feel free to check it out.
Things to do in Gaeta
Visit Via dell’Indipendenza
I might be a little biased because my Airbnb at the time was located on this street, but Via dell’Indipendenza is truly a gem worth visiting. Located in the heart of Gaeta, it is easily accessible from all parts of town.
The street is a central hub for both locals and visitors and has a different atmosphere depending on the time of day. In the evening, it becomes very lively, filled with shops, boutiques, cafés, and eateries. You’ll find a mix of tourist shops and high-quality boutiques with bohemian-style clothing and accessories, such as La Prana.
It can get quite busy in the narrow street, so if that is not your thing, I would recommend visiting in the morning. This is when you can fully enjoy the historic setting, maybe catch the local market, and walk past bakeries just opening, with the smell of fresh pastries in the air.
Relax on Spiaggia di Serapo
Since Gaeta is not very big, you can easily walk to the beach from almost anywhere in town. When you think of a quintessential Italian beach, Spiaggia di Serapo is likely what comes to mind. This golden stretch of sand is the main beach in Gaeta and offers everything you need for a perfect day by the sea.
The beach is organised in sections of private and public areas, so depending on your budget and comfort level, you can choose what suits you best. One thing I really noticed is that there are many lifeguards around, which made me feel very safe as a solo traveller when leaving my belongings behind while I was playing mermaids in the sea.
Visit the Cathedral of Gaeta and explore the old town
The Cathedral of Gaeta is located in the heart of the old town and is definitely worth a visit. The tower is already visible from many points in town, and the surrounding area is one of the most atmospheric parts of Gaeta, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and beautiful views over the sea. It is the perfect place to wander around without a plan and soak in everything Gaeta has to offer.
Visit Castello Angioino-Aragonese
The main landmark in Gaeta is the Castello Angioino-Aragonese, a stunning medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century. The castle has had many functions over the years, and from 1902 until 1990 it was used as one of the most feared military prisons in Italy.
Today, guided tours are available all year round, they are open from 10 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 5 pm, including holidays. Tickets cost around €10 per person, and private guided tours are available in English, German, and French.
Go hiking in Monte Orlando
If you are like me and love the combination of a hike followed by a swim in the sea, Monte Orlando is perfect for you. You can enter the park from multiple sides, but don’t underestimate the height, so make sure to wear good shoes.
At the top, you will find stunning viewpoints and cultural sites, such as the Mausoleo di Lucio Munazio Planco and the Statua di S. Maria Ausiliatrice. Thanks to the higher altitude and the shade from the trees, it can be significantly cooler here, which is a big advantage in summer.
That being said, you still have to climb to the top, so I would recommend starting your hike in the morning or later in the afternoon, depending on the season.
Visit the Grotta del Turco
At the base of Monte Orlando, you can find the Grotta del Turco, one of the most beautiful sea caves I have ever seen, and you can visit it free of charge.
The cave’s name is steeped in local legend and is said to refer to a Turkish pirate who once used it as a hideout. In the past, you could descend all the way down to the cave, but for safety reasons most of the stairs are now closed. You can still reach a viewpoint inside, which is definitely worth it.
Visit viewpoints and take stunning pictures
If you have known me for a while, you know I love a good viewpoint, and Gaeta has plenty. These are my favourites:
Belvedere Angioino
Punto panoramico sul Castello
Belvedere Montagna Spaccata
Vista Punta Gaeta
Enjoy the local food scene
Last but not least, the food. There is so much to try in Gaeta, but I wanted to share a few of my favourites.
My favourite bakery is Scalesse Pastry Store, where you can actually peek straight into the bakery while ordering, which I thought was such a charming detail.
For lunch or dinner, I highly recommend Comeilmare, a seafood restaurant located by the harbour, where you can enjoy fresh seafood straight from the sea.
And of course, you can’t leave Gaeta without trying a tiella di Gaeta, a delicious local specialty that’s somewhere between a pie and a pizza, usually filled with seafood or vegetables.
Conclusion
I hope this blog post has filled you with inspiration for what to do in Gaeta. I completely fell in love with this beautiful destination, and I hope you will too.
If you are planning to visit Gaeta as a day trip from Rome, feel free to check out my other guide on how to get there.
I hope to see you back here soon for another post.
With much love,
Juliette
