As part of my series The Local’s Guide, I will be sitting down with fellow international volunteers to get their advice on the best of the best in their towns and cities!

If you’re short on time and desperate for a local’s opinion, I’ve got you covered. Much more to come!

First up, Giovanni!

Describe the city of Albano Laziale

It’s a tiny town, south of Rome, which started off as a settlement (castra) of the Roman army.

Albano was built on a hill. If you travel by car or on foot, you can journey uphill to the Monastery of Cappuccini and the walking route will take you through the forest. Some like to jog there and at one viewpoint you can see the beautiful Lake Albano–one of two lakes in the area.

Describe the people

In my region, you get the feeling of the South of Italy! You get the sense that you’re crossing a border into the South. People are relaxed. Even though it’s a busy town, you can feel it’s more relaxed than the North.

The best time of the year to visit Albano Laziale

June or July. It’s easier to have an outdoor life.

Like fitness or being active ?

No, eating meals outside.

Of course, silly me.

The worst time of the year to visit Albano Laziale

January. It’s rainy

The most popular places to eat in Albano Laziale

There are 2 really good pizza places–Beccofino and Arisentimpò

Also worth mentioning were,

Fortini Lab – The brioche there is nice and the pastries are very good

Alice – for delicious pizza which they slice into squares

D’Aloisi – They have fantastic Sicilian food which I love… Sicilian Cannolo, Sicilian Granita…

Biolée – for ice cream, of course

The nightlife in Albano

There are many birrerie, wine bars, and pubs. You can take your pick!

Attractions worth visiting in Albano Laziale

Less than one mile away from Albano, you’ll find the town Castel Gandolfo, which is the summer residence of the Pope!

In Albano, there is one museum, well two, but one is Roman and the other is local. There are also two nice lakes very near.

Lake Albano– surrounded by green forest, good for cycling, picnics, walking and swimming, but sometimes it’s not allowed

Lake of Nemi– (pictured above) you can swim all year round unlike Lake Albano. It’s a beautiful place, also good for a picnic

Tips for travellers planning to visit Albano Laziale

The public transport is pretty good. The bus service to Rome is OK but can be very crowded.

It’s best to take the train. I prefer the train. The bus often experiences delays but it does have connections to the metro in Rome. You can take the bus to the underground and after a few stops, you’re in Rome in 20mins!

Less than one mile away from Albano, you’ll find the town Castel Gandolfo, which is the summer residence of the Pope!

Nearest airport to Albano

Ciampino. It’s about 10 minutes away by car.

P.S. Some budget carriers also operate out of “Leonardo da Vinci” – Fiumicino Airport.

Cheers Giovanni for the local tips!

If you’ve travelled to Albano Laziale or are planning to do so, feel free to comment below! I love to hear what fellow travellers are up to.

Be sure to check out all the local guides here at thetravellingms.com!

More to come,

B the travelling MS x