Civitavecchia Cruise Port Guide: How to Get to Rome + Top Things to Do
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This Civitavecchia cruise port guide covers everything you need to know when visiting one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean and the gateway to Rome.
Located about 80 km (50 miles) northwest of the Eternal City, Civitavecchia is a popular starting point for cruise passengers heading into Rome or exploring the port town itself.
I’ve traveled to over 50 countries, yet Rome still stands out as one of my absolute favorites. ❤️
I’ve visited Rome many times, both on cruises and land vacations, and in this detailed Civitavecchia cruise port guide, I’m sharing my top tips for getting around, the best things to do in both places, and practical advice on how to get from the port to the Eternal City.
Civitavecchia Cruise Port Overview
🚢 Roma Cruise Terminal (RCT)
The Roma Cruise Terminal (RCT) is the official cruise terminal complex at the port of Civitavecchia. It serves as the main maritime gateway to central Italy and Rome, handling millions of cruise passengers annually.
The terminal facilities are modern and well-organized, offering passenger waiting areas, luggage services, and shuttle buses that transport guests between ships, terminal buildings, and the port gates.
To reach the train station, where most cruisers are heading, you can take the Civitavecchia Port Link shuttle bus. It connects the cruise terminals directly with the station, takes about 10 minutes, and costs around €6 one-way.
🏢 Port Size and Terminals
Civitavecchia is the 13th busiest cruise port in the world and one of the largest in Europe. It consists of 8 cruise terminals and 15 berths, designed to accommodate even the largest cruise ships from lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Costa, and Celebrity.
Due to the port’s size, cruise ships dock at various piers, sometimes far from the town center or train station, so shuttle transportation is essential.
In addition to the paid shuttle that goes straight to the train station, there’s also a free Port Authority shuttle. It runs to the main terminal and the Largo della Pace information point, where you can easily walk into Civitavecchia town, continue to the train station, hop on a local bus, or meet your tour guide for an independent tour.
Signage is usually available, and port staff are stationed throughout the area to guide passengers to the correct shuttle, taxi stand, or meeting point.
⚓Civitavecchia as a Homeport
Civitavecchia is not just a port of call; it also operates as a homeport, which means many cruises begin or end here.
This makes it especially important for travelers flying into or out of Rome’s Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) or Ciampino airports.
It’s a good idea to arrive in Rome at least a day early to account for flight delays and ensure a stress-free embarkation.
How to Get Around Civitavecchia Port
🚌 Civitavecchia Port Link Shuttle Bus
To get from the cruise terminal to the train station, you can use the Civitavecchia Port Link shuttle bus, which typically costs 6€ one-way and takes about 10 minutes. It’s the most direct way to reach the train station for your trip to Rome.
🚐 Free Shuttle to Largo della Pace
Alternatively, port authorities offer a free shuttle to Largo della Pace, the main passenger information point. From there, you can either walk about 25 minutes to the train station or catch a local bus.
🏛️ Walking to Civitavecchia Town
If you decide to explore Civitavecchia instead of heading to Rome, you’ll be glad to know that the town is within walking distance of the port.
You can visit the 16th-century Fortezza Michelangelo, enjoy a walk along the seafront promenade, or stop by the National Archaeological Museum.
📍 Civitavecchia Port Address
The official port address is:
Prato del Turco, 00053 Civitavecchia, Italy
💶 Currency tip: Italy uses the euro (€). Major credit cards are widely accepted in Civitavecchia and Rome, but it’s always smart to carry some cash for small purchases, public transport, or tips.
Transportation from Civitavecchia to Rome
🚉 Civitavecchia Train Station
The Civitavecchia train station (Stazione Civitavecchia) is located about a 10-minute drive from the port.
You can get there using the Civitavecchia Port Link shuttle or the free shuttle to Largo della Pace, followed by a 25-minute walk.
🎫 Train Options and Tickets
Trains from Civitavecchia to Roma Termini (Rome’s central station) run roughly every 20-30 minutes.
The journey time varies between 40 minutes and 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on the train type. You can buy tickets at the station kiosk, ticket office, or online at trenitalia.com.
Trains and shuttles can get crowded on busy cruise days, so plan ahead and allow extra time to get back before your ship’s all-aboard time.
👉 In my article How to Get from Civitavecchia to Rome: Self-Guided Walking Tour for Cruisers, I share step-by-step details on getting to Rome and include a half-day walking itinerary you can follow.
🗺️ Where to Get Off in Rome
Depending on your plans, you can get off at:
- San Pietro Station – closest to the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica
- Trastevere Station – convenient for the Trastevere neighborhood and local transit connections
- Ostiense Station – great for visiting the Colosseum and ancient Rome; connects to Metro Line B (Piramide)
- Roma Termini – Rome’s central train hub with access to both Metro Line A and B, including a direct metro connection to the Colosseum (Line B, Colosseo stop)
🕘 Cruise Tip: Most Rome highlights are outdoors and walkable, but distances between them can be longer than expected. Wear comfortable shoes and allow time for breaks.
🚖 Taxi and Private Transfers
Guided shore excursions: You can book a full-day Rome tour directly with your cruise line, or often for less with a trusted tour operator. These tours are timed to fit your cruise schedule and usually include transportation, skip-the-line tickets, and a guide.
👉 Explore top-rated Rome shore excursions
Taxi to the train station: Around 10€ per person (quick and convenient if you’re short on time).
Taxi to central Rome: Expect to pay approximately 200€ one-way, depending on traffic and location.
Private transfers: For a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, consider booking a private transfer from the port directly to Rome. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with family, have luggage, or want a stress-free ride.
👉 Check private transfer options on Viator / GetYourGuide / GetTransfer
🚌 Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
A great way to explore Rome in a short time is by using the Hop-On Hop-Off bus, which stops at all major landmarks. You can book tickets through platforms like Viator or Get Your Guide.
Getting to Civitavecchia from Rome Airports
🚌 From Fiumicino or Ciampino Airport
The cheapest way to get to Civitavecchia from either Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci Airport) or Ciampino Airport is to take a shuttle bus to Roma Termini, then catch a regional train to Civitavecchia.
Shuttle buses from the airport to Rome Termini cost around 7€ per person and run frequently.
From Fiumicino, you also have the option to take the Leonardo Express train, a non-stop service to Roma Termini. It costs 14€ and takes about 32 minutes, offering a faster and more comfortable alternative to the bus.
From Roma Termini, regional trains to Civitavecchia depart approximately every 30 minutes, with a journey time of 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the train type.
🚖 Private Airport Shuttle Transfers
For a direct and hassle-free ride, book a private transfer from the airport to the cruise port. It’s the most convenient option, especially if you’re arriving late, traveling with kids, or want to avoid train connections.
- Prices vary depending on the provider, group size, and vehicle type, but it can be surprisingly affordable when shared.
- You’ll be picked up at the airport and dropped off right at the cruise terminal.
👉 See private shuttles from Fiumicino to Civitavecchia
Getting Around Rome from the Train Station
🚇 Using the Metro
Rome’s Metro Lines A and B are the fastest way to move between major landmarks once you arrive by train.
From Roma Termini or Ostiense Station, you can hop on the metro and easily reach most top sights.
📍 Popular stops include:
- 🏛️ Colosseum (Metro Line B – Colosseo Station)
- 💦 Fontana di Trevi (Metro Line A – Barberini Station, followed by a short walk)
- 🏟️ Piazza Navona (closest metro stop: Spagna or Barberini on Line A, then walk)
- ⛪ St. Peter’s Basilica (Metro Line A – Ottaviano Station, about a 10-minute walk)
🎫 Ticket info:
- Single ticket: 1.50€, valid for 100 minutes
- Day pass: 7€, valid for unlimited metro/bus use until midnight
👉 Tickets can be purchased at metro stations, tobacco shops (tabacchi), or via official apps like Rome ATAC.
📱 Tip: Use apps like Rome ATAC or Google Maps for real-time metro updates and walking directions between landmarks.
🎥 Want a visual overview of the port and how to get to Rome?
Check out my video below, where I walk you through everything you need to know about the Civitavecchia cruise terminal, transport to Rome and the best things to do in the Eternal City, including practical tips from my personal experience! 👇
Where to Stay in Civitavecchia or Rome
🛏️ Best Hotels Near the Port
If you’re arriving a day early or staying after your cruise, finding a hotel near the port is a smart and convenient choice. I’ve put together a helpful guide based on traveler reviews:
👉 15 Best Hotels near the Port of Civitavecchia (Rome)
Prefer to browse directly? You can also check available hotels on Booking.com here:
👉 Search hotels in Rome on Booking.com
📦 If you’re staying overnight before or after your cruise, ask your hotel about luggage storage or early check-in, many offer it for cruise passengers.
💡 Planning a Mediterranean cruise or visiting multiple ports?
I’ve created a detailed Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide with insider tips for Rome, Athens, Barcelona, Naples, Santorini, and more.
If you find this article helpful, you’ll love the ebook — it’s packed with advice for getting around, saving time, and making the most of every port.
👉 Check out the Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide
Top 10 Things to Do in Rome (for Cruise Visitors)
If you’re visiting Rome on a cruise stop from Civitavecchia, time is limited, but with smart planning, you can still see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Most major sights like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums require at least 2–3 hours each, not including wait times or travel time back to the ship.
That’s why I recommend focusing on a few key attractions and booking skip-the-line tickets or a guided shore excursion to avoid long queues. Popular sights often sell out, especially in peak season, so booking in advance is a good idea.
👉 Browse Rome tours and skip-the-line tickets
🚶♂️ If you’d like to explore Rome on foot, the best way to experience the city, check out my article How to Get from Civitavecchia to Rome: Self-Guided Walking Tour for Cruisers.
In it, I share step-by-step details on reaching Rome and a half-day walking itinerary you can easily follow. 🙂
Here are the top 10 things I recommend for cruisers visiting Rome:
1. St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican City)
St. Peter’s Basilica is the world’s largest church and one of the most awe-inspiring religious sites, located in Vatican City.
Covering over 22,000 m², it can hold up to 20,000 people and is believed to be the burial site of Saint Peter. Inside, you’ll find masterpieces by Michelangelo, Bernini, and other Renaissance greats.
Entrance is free, but expect security checks and possible lines.
To reach it, get off at San Pietro Station and walk about 10 minutes to the square.
2. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Located right next to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums house one of the largest art collections in the world.
If you’re visiting Rome on a cruise, you’ll need at least half a day to explore the highlights, so planning ahead is key.
Some must-see sections include:
- Sistine Chapel – Michelangelo’s famous ceiling is an absolute must-see.
- Pinacoteca – Paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Caravaggio, and others.
- Pio Clementino Museum – Stunning Greek and Roman sculptures.
- Gregorian Egyptian Museum – Artifacts from Ancient Egypt.
- Gallery of Maps – A favorite for history and geography lovers.
- Carriage Pavilion – Papal carriages and historical vehicles.
- Raphael Rooms – Private apartments of Pope Julius II, frescoed by Raphael.
⏱️ Cruise tip: If you only have a few hours, book a guided tour or skip-the-line ticket to make the most of your time.
👉 Browse Vatican tours and skip-the-line tickets
3. Castel Sant’Angelo
Just a 10-minute walk from St. Peter’s Square, this imposing riverside fortress sits on the right bank of the Tiber River.
Originally built around 125 B.C. as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it later became a papal residence, prison, and now houses the National Museum of Castel Sant’Angelo.
Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, weapons, and historical artifacts, along with stunning panoramic views from the top.
4. Colosseum
A true icon of Rome, the Colosseum is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Built between 70–80 AD under Emperors Vespasian and Titus, it’s the largest ancient amphitheater in existence, once holding up to 70,000 spectators for gladiator battles, public shows, and more.
Today, it’s one of the most visited sites in Rome and a must-see for any first-time visitor.
📍 Getting there: From Roma Termini, take Metro Line B to the Colosseo stop—it’s right outside the entrance.
⏳ Tip: Lines can be long, so book skip-the-line tickets or a guided tour in advance.
5. Roman Forum
Located next to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was the heart of Ancient Rome—once a bustling center of politics, commerce, and public life.
Today, it’s one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world.
Visitors can explore the remains of ancient temples, basilicas, the Curia (Senate House), Rostra (speakers’ platform), and the Arch of Septimius Severus, among many other structures.
⏳ Short on time? You can admire the forum from Via dei Fori Imperiali, a street with a pedestrian promenade offering great panoramic views without entering the site.
📍 How to get there: Take Metro Line B to Colosseo (from Roma Termini or Ostiense).
6. Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna)
Piazza di Spagna is one of Rome’s most iconic squares, famous for its elegant Spanish Steps, the Trinità dei Monti church at the top, and Bernini’s Barcaccia Fountain below.
It’s also a hotspot for shopping, cafés, and people-watching.
📍 Getting there: From Roma Termini, take Metro Line A toward Battistini and get off at Spagna (3 stops).
👉 Check out Spanish Steps tours and activities
7. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most spectacular Baroque fountains in the world.
Designed by Nicola Salvi in the 18th century, it stands an impressive 26 meters high and 49 meters wide, built at the end of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct—hence the name “Trevi,” meaning “three roads” in Latin.
It’s located in the historic center and is almost always crowded, but it’s absolutely worth the visit. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the fountain—it’s said to guarantee your return to Rome!
📍 Getting there: From Roma Termini, take Metro Line A toward Battistini and get off at Barberini – Fontana di Trevi (2 stops), then walk a few minutes.
8. Piazza Navona
Originally built as the Stadium of Domitian in the 1st century AD, Piazza Navona is now one of Rome’s most beautiful and lively squares.
It features three stunning fountains: Fountain of the Four Rivers, Fountain of the Moor, and Fountain of Neptune, as well as the impressive Sant’Agnese in Agone church, home to the shrine of St. Agnes.
📍 Just a 10-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona is the perfect stop if you’re exploring Rome’s historic center on foot.
9. Pantheon
Once a Roman temple, now a Catholic basilica, the Pantheon is one of Rome’s best-preserved ancient landmarks.
Completed by Emperor Hadrian in 125 AD, it’s known for its massive concrete dome, still the largest unreinforced dome in the world, with a central oculus that lights up the interior.
Inside, you’ll find the tombs of famous figures like Raphael and Italian kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.
📍 The Pantheon is located on Piazza della Rotonda, just a 5–10 minute walk from both Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain.
10. Campo de’ Fiori
Just a short walk from Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, Campo de’ Fiori is a lively square known for its colorful open-air market, one of the most picturesque in Rome. The name means “Field of Flowers,” as the area was once a meadow.
By day, it’s filled with stalls selling fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and spices.
By night, it transforms into a vibrant spot with cafés, wine bars, and trattorias offering classic Roman dishes at reasonable prices.
🎟️ No entry fee — just come hungry and ready to explore.
👉 Explore Campo de’ Fiori tours and activities
What to See in Civitavecchia on a Cruise
If you decide to skip Rome and spend your day in Civitavecchia, there’s still plenty to explore right near the port.
The town has a mix of history, archaeology, and relaxing seaside spots—all within walking distance or a short ride from the cruise terminal.
🏰 Fortezza Michelangelo
Located at the entrance to the port, this 16th-century fortress was built in 1537 to defend the harbor and was named after Michelangelo, who designed its central tower. It’s a great photo spot and a prominent symbol of the town.
🏺 National Archaeological Museum
Just across from the fortress, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Civitavecchia is housed in an elegant 18th-century building that once belonged to Pope Clement XIII. Inside, you’ll find fascinating Etruscan and Roman artifacts unearthed from the surrounding region.
⛪ Cathedral of San Francesco d’Assisi
A short walk from the museum, this 17th-century cathedral showcases Neoclassical-Baroque architecture and is the main place of worship in Civitavecchia. It’s a peaceful stop with beautiful interior details.
🛁 Taurine Baths (Terme Taurine)
Located about 5 km (3 miles) from the town center, these ancient Roman thermal baths are among the best-preserved in the region.
Also known as the Baths of Trajan, they date back to the 1st century AD and offer a glimpse into Roman bathing culture.
🚌 Tip: You’ll need a taxi or local transport to reach the baths.
🏖️ Civitavecchia Beach (Spiaggia Il Pirgo)
Right across from the train station, this small pebble beach is perfect for a quick seaside break. It’s backed by a charming seafront promenade with colorful railings and a few spots to sit and relax.
FAQ: Civitavecchia Cruise Port
❓ How far is Civitavecchia from Rome?
Civitavecchia is located about 80 km (50 miles) northwest of Rome. By train, it usually takes between 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on the train you catch.
❓ What’s the best way to get from the cruise port to Rome?
The most common option is to take the Civitavecchia Port Link shuttle to the train station (6€ one way), and from there, hop on a regional train to Rome. If you prefer a stress-free ride, you can book a private transfer or a guided shore excursion, especially helpful if you’re tight on time.
❓ Can I walk to the train station from the ship?
Not directly. Cruise ships dock inside a secured port area, so you’ll first need to take the free port shuttle to Largo della Pace. From there, it’s about a 25-minute walk to the train station, or you can take a short local bus or taxi.
❓ Is there anything to see in Civitavecchia if I don’t go to Rome?
Absolutely! You can explore the Fortezza Michelangelo, visit the National Archaeological Museum, see the Cathedral of San Francesco, or relax at the local beach right across from the train station. The Taurine Baths are also a short drive away and worth a visit if you enjoy Roman history.
❓ What currency is used in Civitavecchia?
Italy uses the euro (€). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it’s always handy to carry a bit of cash for small purchases, transport, or tips.
Helpful Resources for Your Civitavecchia (Rome) Cruise
- Google Maps Location: Find the exact location of the port of Civitavecchia.
- Cruise Ship Schedule: See when ships are in port and plan your visit.
- Civitavecchia Port Authority: Get fresh updates on port operations and schedules.
- Rome Tourism Office: Discover more about the top attractions and places to see.
- Local Weather Forecast: Get the latest weather updates to prepare for your day.
🌐 Other Ports Commonly Included on Mediterranean Itineraries
Cruising from Civitavecchia? Your itinerary may also include top Mediterranean ports like Barcelona, Marseille, Lisbon, and Cádiz, as well as stunning islands like Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, and Kefalonia.
Eastern Mediterranean sailings often stop in Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, and Istanbul, while Salerno offers access to Pompeii, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast.
👉 Check out my guides to these ports for insider tips, things to do, and cruise-day planning.
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand, Middle East
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