A Weekend in Gaeta: Beaches, History & Seafood South of Rome

realtravelguides
Sep 9
2 min read

Halfway between Rome and Naples, Gaeta is a seaside town with golden beaches, medieval alleys, and fresh seafood straight from the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s less crowded than Amalfi but just as charming, perfect for a weekend escape.

Gaeta combines sandy beaches with a historic old town and legendary seafood. It’s a place where Romans holiday, but international tourists rarely visit.Once a Roman resort town, Gaeta later became a fortified stronghold and naval base. Its medieval quarter still bears the mark of papal rule and centuries of maritime defense.

What to Expect

Wide sandy beaches with warm water until October.
A compact historic centre with alleys and fortifications.
Fresh seafood, olives, and gelato at every corner.

5 Things to Do and See

Relax on Serapo Beach, the town’s main golden arc of sand.
Explore the Montagna Spaccata, a split cliff with a chapel wedged inside.
Walk up to the Angevin-Aragonese Castle for views over the town.
Stroll the medieval quarter, lined with churches and piazzas.
Try Gaeta’s famous olives at the weekly market.

Food Culture

Gaeta is known for seafood — anchovies, tuna, and calamari — and for the briny Gaeta olives, which feature in local stews and salads.

Where to Eat

Giakis (Gaeta) – Modern dining with creative takes on seafood, like tuna tartare with citrus.
La Tana di Cagliostro – Cozy trattoria serving seafood pasta and catch of the day.
Antico Forno Giordano – Family bakery famous for tiella di Gaeta, a stuffed flatbread with octopus or spinach.

Where to Stay

Grand Hotel Le Rocce – Cliffside hotel with terraces overlooking the sea, private beach access, and lush gardens.
Rock Garden Hotel – A welcoming, modern option near Serapo Beach, offering good value and comfort.