Rieti

This is your travel guide for Rieti, Lazio, Italy

1 : Visit the Sanctuary of Fonte Colombo [2 hrs]

Begin your journey by exploring the Sanctuary of Fonte Colombo, a tranquil religious site nestled in the Sabine Hills near Rieti. Admire the stunning architecture of the sanctuary and take in the peaceful surroundings. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the pure spring water believed to have healing properties by locals.

2 : Explore the historic center of Rieti [3 hrs]

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Rieti by wandering through its charming historic center. Visit the Cathedral of St. Mary (Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta) to marvel at its impressive facade and stunning interior. Explore the narrow medieval streets lined with quaint shops, cafes, and traditional trattorias.

3 : Hike to the Cascata delle Marmore [4 hrs]

Embark on a scenic hike to the Cascata delle Marmore, one of the tallest man-made waterfalls in Europe, located near Rieti. Enjoy the picturesque trails that lead you to breathtaking viewpoints of the cascading waters. Take in the beauty of the surrounding nature and the peaceful sound of the waterfall.

4 : Attend the Sagra della Cicerchia festival [1 day]

If you’re visiting Rieti in September, make sure to attend the Sagra della Cicerchia festival, a celebration of the local culinary specialty – the Cicerchia legume. Enjoy traditional dishes made with Cicerchia, live music, cultural performances, and a lively carnival atmosphere. Delight your taste buds with unique and authentic flavors of the region.

5 : Discover the ancient Roman bridge Ponte Romano [1 hr]

Marvel at the architectural marvel of the Ponte Romano, an ancient Roman bridge that spans the Velino River near Rieti. Learn about the bridge’s history and significance as a vital link in the Roman road network. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the bridge, taking in the picturesque views of the river and surrounding landscape.

Background Info

Weather

Rieti experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures average around 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is higher in the winter months, with occasional snowfall in the surrounding mountains. Humidity levels are moderate, and air quality is generally good.

Language

The local language spoken in Rieti is Italian, as it is throughout Italy.

Cost Of Living

The cost of living index in Rieti is lower than in major Italian cities like Rome or Milan. Dining out, transportation, and accommodation are relatively affordable compared to other tourist destinations in Italy.

Other

Rieti is known for its outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. The region is also famous for its traditional cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients such as Cicerchia, wild boar, and pecorino cheese. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse flora and fauna found in the Apennine Mountains near Rieti.