SS1 Via Aurelia is One of the Main Roads of the Roman Empire
Italy, europe
697 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
# Strada Statale 1 Via Aurelia (SS 1)
Ready for an epic coastal road trip? The SS1 is basically the Italian answer to scenic highway perfection—a legendary route that hugs the coastline from Rome all the way to the French border near Ventimiglia.
This isn't just any road; it's got serious historical cred. We're talking about a route that literally traces the ancient Roman Via Aurelia, originally built way back in 241 BC by Gaius Aurelius Cotta. It's one of Italy's most crucial state highways and a genuine piece of Roman Empire legacy.
Stretching 697 kilometers (433 miles) of fully paved bliss, the SS1 connects Rome to Ventimiglia in the northern Liguria region, following both the Tyrrhenian and Ligurian Seas as it winds past nine provincial capitals. Fair warning: this is *the* road to drive during peak season, so expect company if you're hitting it during holidays.
The real magic happens between Genoa and the French border. This section literally clings to the coastline, serving up absolutely stunning sea views that'll make you want to pull over constantly. The scenery is genuinely distracting—in the best way possible. Plus, here's the bonus: while most Italian highways will drain your wallet with tolls, the SS1 is completely free. Some sections operate as a dual-carriageway highway, but you won't pay a dime for this incredible drive.
Where is it?
SS1 Via Aurelia is One of the Main Roads of the Roman Empire is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.8518, 13.1223
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 697 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 42.8518, 13.1223
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