Nemi: a perfect getaway for strawberries lovers.

With the arrival of April, we can finally say that spring is here, and with it comes strawberry season.
For me, this means only one thing: Nemi.
For those traveling through Italy and wanting to experience its true essence, it’s essential to explore and visit as many Italian villages as possible. These villages are charming little towns that showcase what has made Italy famous worldwide: tradition.
Elected one of the most beautiful villages in Italy in 2023, Nemi is a must-visit destination, especially for strawberry lovers.

How to get to Nemi?

If you’re staying at YellowSquare, you can reach Nemi by car in about fifty minutes. Alternatively, you can get there by train, thanks to its proximity to Rome Termini station. Whether you head towards Albano Laziale or Velletri, once you reach the final stop, you’ll find a bus that will take you directly to Nemi.

Why Nemi?

At this point, you’re probably wondering what strawberries have to do with this guide. You should know that Nemi is famous not only for its flowers but, above all, for its strawberries, which begin to appear in early April.
Small, fragrant, and incredibly sweet, these strawberries have been cultivated for generations in the lands surrounding the lake, thanks to the unique microclimate. This is why you’ll find Nemi strawberries in every dish—from tarts to cakes, jams, and ice cream—from April to July.
The highlight of the season is undoubtedly the Strawberry Festival, a tradition dating back to the early 1900s that is still celebrated every year on the first Sunday of June. During the festival, the village is filled like never before with stalls, sweets, and liqueurs. Meanwhile, the “fragolare”—women dressed in traditional clothing—walk through the streets offering baskets of fresh fruit, while folk performances and live music bring Nemi to life on this special day.
So, if you’re looking for the perfect day to indulge your sweet tooth, I recommend visiting on Sunday, June 1st, to experience the Strawberry Festival firsthand.

That being said, as you can imagine, spring in Nemi is already packed with delicious treats well before June. Of all the things I’ve tried, I highly recommend the bistro inside the public park you’ll visit following my guide. They make shortcrust pastries filled with cream and fresh strawberries, served with ice cream and a stunning view. This is definitely the perfect spot to relax, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, or even play a game of cards with friends.

What to see in Nemi?

Starting from its charming medieval village, Nemi is full of picturesque alleys, artisan shops, and local delicacies that go far beyond just strawberries. But beyond an unforgettable gastronomic tour, Nemi offers much more: breathtaking views and nature walks.

You’ll quickly notice the stunning view over Lake Nemi, which is accessible on foot if you’re wearing the right shoes. There are several trekking routes around the lake, with varying levels of difficulty and elevation.
Among the most beautiful panoramic spots is the Belvedere degli Innamorati, whose name refers to the Greek mythological love stories tied to the valley of the lake. Once past the viewpoint, follow the scenic path through the public gardens, where you can also admire the hills surrounding the lake.
A little-known gem can actually be found inside the Sanctuary of the Holy Crucifix. From its garden, you can enjoy a breathtaking view, framed by French-style hedges and colorful flowers. Right next to the sanctuary, there is also a small panoramic terrace, much less crowded than the other viewpoints—perfect for those who want to take in the landscape in peace.

To summarize, I’ve described in detail the trip that my friends and I took together last summer, and as you can imagine, we absolutely loved it. Nemi won us over with its strawberries and stunning views.

But this is just one of the many gems of the Castelli Romani. Considering the beauty of the other villages in the area, I highly recommend visiting more than one—or even dedicating an entire long weekend to exploring the Castelli Romani. It’s the perfect opportunity to slow down and enjoy life away from the city.

And you? Have you ever been to Nemi? 

For any questions, curiosities, or recommendations, you can find me at Yellow Bar!
Carolina