Montecassino: Day Trips and Tours from Rome

If you're interested in European history, a Montecassino day trip from Rome is an absolute must-do. Perched atop a rocky hill, the Montecassino Abbey is one of the oldest and most important historical sites in Italy.

The abbey was founded by Saint Benedict in 529 A.D. and served as a key religious site during the Middle Ages. Today, the abbey is a popular tourist destination and is well worth a visit if you're in the area.

It's also located close to several war cemeteries from World War II, which are a somber but important stop on any trip to Italy.

Here’s everything you need to know about Montecassino, one of the most captivating day trips from Rome.

How to get to Montecassino from Rome?

Montecassino is located about 140 kilometers away from Rome. The fastest way to travel there is by car or train.

From Rome to Montecassino by car

It takes about one hour and 50 minutes to drive from Rome to Montecassino. Be sure to take the A1 motorway, as this is the quickest route.

From Rome to Montecassino by train

There are direct trains from Rome's Termini station to Montecassino. The journey takes 1.5 hours. The Trenitalia service runs several times per day from Roma Termini to Cassino, and tickets start at €8.40 each way.

Once you reach the station, it's a 10-minute taxi ride to Montecassino Abbey.

Guided tour to Montecassino from Rome

A Montecassino day tour from Rome is a great way to learn about the abbey's history and see the important sights. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Rome, a guided tour of Montecassino Abbey and free time to explore the grounds.

Tours typically depart from Rome in the morning and last around eight hours. Often, your Montecassino excursion will also include an additional stop at another historical site.

How much does the entrance ticket to Montecassino cost?

Entry to the Montecassino Abbey itself is free. However, if you want to venture inside the Montecassino Museum, you will need to pay an entry fee.

• Adults: €5
• Families: €4 per adult and €2 per child
• Students: €3
• Groups of 10 people or more: €3 per person

The museum contains many historical relics and artworks. Sometimes, the price of entry is included in a Montecassino day trip. It is worth checking with your tour operator whether you’ll be visiting the museum or not.

What is the typical itinerary?

On a Montecassino day trip, you will usually leave Rome at around 9 AM and begin your journey to the abbey. You'll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the trip usually takes around 1.5 hours.

When you arrive at the abbey, you will learn all about its history and discover the myths and legends associated with the site.

You will hear about the Battle of Montecassino, which was a series of four assaults by the Allies during World War II. You'll also be able to explore the Montecassino Museum, where you can see some of the abbey's most valuable treasures.

After exploring the abbey, you'll usually enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. This is an opportunity to sample some of the region's authentic cuisine and perhaps try some of the local wine.

In the afternoon, you'll usually visit a World War II cemetery, such as the Polish or Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemeteries. Here, you can learn more about Italy's struggles during the war and pay your respects to the fallen soldiers.

Your Montecassino day tour will end with the journey back to Rome, where you'll arrive around 5 PM.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Montecassino?

Guided tour to Montecassino from Rome

This full-day Montecassino jaunt includes entry to the museum and stops at the Polish and Commonwealth cemeteries. You will be introduced to the Benedictine motto, which the abbey's monks live by to this day.

The group size is limited to 14 participants, so you will have plenty of time to ask questions and get to know your guide.

Private tour to Montecassino from Rome

A Montecassino private day tour from Rome is the perfect way to explore the religious history of Italy. You will have a dedicated guide who will show you around the abbey and tell you all about its fascinating past.

On this Montecassino day trip, you'll also visit the Polish cemetery and the Split Mountain of Gaeta. You’ll be taken to the Sanctuary of the Holy Trinity and the Turk's Cave, which is a pilgrimage site for both Christians and Muslims.

Day trip to Montecassino plus Irpinia from Rome

In addition to exploring the abbey, this Montecassino excursion includes a wine tasting session at Cantine Antonio Caggiano. Here, you'll learn all about the process of making wine and try some of the locally produced varieties.

Day trip to Montecassino plus Rapido River from Rome

This Montecassino day tour includes a battlefield visit, where you'll learn all about the Battle of Rapido River. The battle was fought in 1944 and was one of the bloodiest conflicts of World War II.

Day trip to Montecassino plus Caserta from Rome

This Montecassino journey also includes a trip to Caserta Palace, which is nicknamed "the Versailles of Italy." With over 1,200 rooms, expansive gardens and countless works of art, this grand palace is a must-see for any history lover.

How much does a tour to Montecassino from Rome cost?

Guided tours to Montecassino from Rome cost €160 per person for a group of eight people and the price covers a professional English-speaking guide.

Private tours to Montecassino from Rome cost €650 per person for a group of two adults. The tour includes Visit at Montecassino Abbey and Visit at Polish cemetery with a professional guide, private transportation and fixed menu lunch.

Day trips to Montecassino plus Irpinia from Rome cost €530 per person and include a wine tasting experience.

Day trips to Montecassino plus Rapido River from Rome cost about €700 per person with a tour guide and transportation.

What will you see and do in Montecassino?

The main draw of a Montecassino jaunt is the abbey itself, which is a beautifully preserved and historic building. The abbey has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Today it stands as a testament to the resilience of the Italian people.

On your Montecassino day trip, you'll also have the opportunity to explore the abbey's museum, which is full of treasures from the past. You can also visit the Polish and Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemeteries, which are a somber reminder of the price of war.

In addition to the abbey, other popular stops on a Montecassino day trip include Cantine Antonio Caggiano and the Sanctuary of the Holy Trinity and the Turk's Cave.

Alternatively, you might want to head to Irpinia for some wine-tasting, or to Caserta Palace for a taste of royal Italian life.

What are the opening times?

The Montecassino Abbey is open from 9:30 AM to 5:15 PM between April and October. From November to March, it closes at the slightly earlier time of 4:50 PM. However, you will usually explore the abbey during the late morning on a Montecassino day tour, so the change in opening hours shouldn't affect you.

When is the best time to visit Montecassino?

The best time for a Montecassino day trip is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, the abbey is open all year round, so you can enjoy a Montecassino excursion no matter when you're visiting Rome.

Since your Montecassino journey will often include a visit to the war cemeteries, November is an especially poignant time to go because it is Remembrance Month.

What are the other day trips from Rome?

• Pompeii day trips from Rome
• Amalfi Coast day trips from Rome
• Positano day tours from Rome
• Day trips to Naples from Rome
• Villa d'Este day trips from Rome

Travel tips

• The Montecassino Abbey can get very busy, so it's best to book a tour in advance.
• The Montecassino Abbey is a religious site, so remember to dress conservatively. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding revealing clothing. If you're visiting on a Sunday, be aware that mass  is held at 10:30 AM.
• You may want to bring some snacks and water with you, as there are only a few places to buy food and drinks near the abbey.
• During the summer months, it can get very hot in Montecassino. Make sure to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade when possible.