Formia: What to See, Where to Eat And What to do in The Evening

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Formia is a charming town located in the Lazio region of Italy, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. This article will delve into the must-see attractions, dining options, and activities that make Formia an unforgettable destination.

History and Cultural Significance

Formia has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human presence dating back to the 5th century BC. The town’s strategic location made it a crucial stop for traders and travelers along the ancient Roman roads. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the Roman Wall of Nerva, a testament to Formia’s rich history.

Chiesa di Sant’Erasmo: A Marvel of Gothic Architecture

Located in the heart of Formia, Chiesa di Sant’Erasmo is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The church dates back to the 14th century and features an impressive facade adorned with intricate stone carvings.

Fontana di San Remigio: A Symbol of Faith and Water

The Fontana di San Remigio is a beautiful Renaissance fountain that has been a focal point in Formia for centuries. The fountain’s design represents the power of faith, while its location near the city center makes it an ideal spot to relax and people-watch.

Borgo Castellone: A Hilltop Village with a Rich History

Perched atop a hill, Borgo Castellone offers breathtaking views of Formia and the surrounding countryside. This ancient village dates back to the 10th century and features charming stone houses, cobblestone streets, and picturesque alleys.

Il Cisternone: A Roman Underground Structure

Located beneath the town center, Il Cisternone is an impressive underground structure that dates back to the Roman era. This ancient cistern was built to store water for the inhabitants of Formia and features a complex system of arches and aqueducts.

Parco regionale di Gianola e Monte di Scauri: A Nature Reserve

Just outside Formia lies the Parco regionale di Gianola e Monte di Scauri, a stunning nature reserve that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and animals.

Chiese di San Lorenzo and San Giovanni Battista: A Pair of Ancient Churches

Located in the heart of Formia, Chiese di San Lorenzo and San Giovanni Battista are two ancient churches that date back to the 12th century. The churches feature impressive stone carvings, stunning stained-glass windows, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Museo Archeologico di Formia: A Treasure Trove of Ancient Artifacts

The Museo Archeologico di Formia is a world-class museum that houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts. The museum features exhibits on the history of Formia, including Roman mosaics, Etruscan ceramics, and other rare finds.

Spiaggia di Vindicio: A Beachside Paradise

Just outside Formia lies the Spiaggia di Vindicio, a stunning beachside paradise that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in a peaceful atmosphere.

Complesso romano del muro di Nerva: A Roman Ruin

Located near the town center, Complesso romano del muro di Nerva is an impressive Roman ruin that dates back to the 1st century AD. The complex features stunning arches, columns, and other ancient structures.

Daytime Itinerary in Formia

Here’s a suggested itinerary for your daytime exploration of Formia:

9:00 AM: Start your day at Chiesa di Sant’Erasmo to admire its stunning Gothic architecture.
10:30 AM: Visit the Fontana di San Remigio and take in the beautiful Renaissance fountain.
12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Ristorante Civico 57, which specializes in Mediterranean and fish cuisine.
1:30 PM: Explore Borgo Castellone and its charming stone houses, cobblestone streets, and picturesque alleys.
3:30 PM: Visit Il Cisternone, an impressive underground structure that dates back to the Roman era.
5:00 PM: Take a stroll through the Parco regionale di Gianola e Monte di Scauri, a stunning nature reserve with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

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Dining in Formia

Formia offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some recommendations:

Ristorante Civico 57: Specializes in Mediterranean and fish cuisine.
Ristorante Bellablu: Specializes in fish and Mediterranean dishes.
Zi’ Anna Mare Formia: Large restaurant specializing in fish dishes.
La Ciociara Di Gentile Francesco: Restaurant serving traditional Ciocesarian cuisine.

Evening Activities in Formia

Formia is a quiet town that prioritizes relaxation and culture, but there are still plenty of options for evening activities. Here are some recommendations:

Cook Pub Formia: Pub with a vast selection of beers.
Morgana Birreria: Brewery open late, with live music and food ordering available.
Apotheke farmacia alcolica locale: Local alcohol pharmacy specialising in drinks, open late.
Cork: Bar with excellent drinks and ideal for aperitif.

Organizing Your Stay in Formia

Getting to Formia is easy by car via the A1 highway. The town’s train station is located about 10 minutes’ walk from the city center. The best way to get around Formia is on foot, as the attractions are close together. However, if you need to rent a car, there are parking options available throughout the city.

Where to Stay:

Formia offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals. To find the perfect place to stay, compare the selection on Booking.com.

Attractions near Formia:

If you’re looking for more attractions to explore, consider visiting Gaeta, Sperlonga, and one of the villages in the Monti Aurunci region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some answers to common questions about Formia:

What is the best time to visit Formia?
- The best time to visit Formia is during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is mild and sunny.
How do I get to Formia by car?
- To get to Formia by car, take the A1 highway from Rome or Naples.
What are the must-see attractions in Formia?
- Some of the top attractions in Formia include Chiesa di Sant’Erasmo, Fontana di San Remigio, Borgo Castellone, Il Cisternone, and Parco regionale di Gianola e Monte di Scauri.
What are some good restaurants in Formia?
- Some popular restaurants in Formia include Ristorante Civico 57, Ristorante Bellablu, Zi’ Anna Mare Formia, La Ciociara Di Gentile Francesco, and Magie dei Sapori Bistrot.
What are the evening activities like in Formia?
- Formia is a quiet town that prioritizes relaxation and culture, but there are still plenty of options for evening activities, including pubs, breweries, and bars.