Civitavecchia, Mediterranean Cruises Port Profile

The port town of Civitavecchia in Italy serves as an ideal gateway to the “Eternal City” of Rome. The name of this place literally means the ancient town and it is a popular port of call for many Mediterranean cruises. Located on the Tyrrhenian Sea, this port city sits at a distance of approximately 80 kilometers from Rome. Once you have enjoyed all the sights and sounds of this place, you can head to Rome from this town by hiring a cab or airport shuttle service. You can lower the cost of the same by sharing it with a fellow passenger. 

Another interesting way to reach Rome from Civitavecchia is by opting for a shore excursion. This excursion lasts for approximately 8 hours and includes pick up from the ship at eight in the morning and drop off at four in the evening. This leaves the travelers with ample time to explore some popular sights of Civitavecchia before it is time for the cruise ship to leave for the next port of call. This guided excursion includes sites such as the Capitoline Hill, Colosseum, Pantheon, Piazza Campidoglio, Roman Forum, Piazza Venezia, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.

Transportation and Telecommunication in Civitavecchia

Being a popular tourist destination, there are several modes of transportation available for moving to and from as well as in this town. You can move around the beautiful town in a shuttle or taxi or travel in public buses while sightseeing on your own. These conveyance facilities are readily available at the port, train station and around the town.
As for telecommunication, there is a phone center at Via Dalmazia and Calamatta Phone facility at Piazza Calamatta, both of which offer internet facility as well. You can also make calls from Via Gian Lorenzo Bernini that is located at a distance of approximately 350 meters from the train station.

What to do upon arrival in Civitavecchia

If you are coming to Civitavecchia on one of the Mediterranean cruises, it is highly recommended that you spend the night in this town rather than traveling back and forth to Rome with your luggage. In fact, the excellent water connectivity of this town with other places such as Sardinia, Spain, Sicily, France and even North Africa has made it a popular pit stop for several cruise ships that dock here for more than a day.

This port is worth all the time you would be spending in here, and you might as well make use of the time by letting the mesmerizing vibes of Civitavecchia engulf and enthrall you. The accommodation options available at this town include a multiple choice of luxury, mid-range and discount hotels along with Bread & Breakfasts and inns that are easy on the pocket. Some of the most reputed hospitality units at this place are Albergo Hotel Miramare, Hotel San Giorgio, Hotel De La Ville and Hotel Bramante.

Once you have checked into your hotel, you can plan excursions to nearby places other than Rome from Civitavecchia. For instance, you can board a train to the town of Targuinia that is located at a short distance and is popular for its Etruscan tombs and museum. However, if you are not in the mood to travel far, you can still feast your eyes on some marvels of Roman architecture that dot Civitavecchia.

Popular places to visit in Civitavecchia

The port town of Civitavecchia is a treasure trove of tourist attractions and is known primarily for its architectural landmarks that have historical significance as well. The colossal Forte Michelangelo that was built by Giuliano Leno and Antonio da Sangallo the Younger was commissioned by Pope Julius II for defending the port.

This imposing structure comprises of four towers and none other than Michelangelo himself designed the upper part of the “maschio” tower. The construction of this fort was completed in the year 1535 and it is believed to have been erected over the barracks of the classiarii.

Another popular place of visit that is listed on the itinerary of every visitor who comes to Civitavecchia is the Rocca. This castle has undergone many renovations over the course of time with the first major work commissioned by Pope Sixtus V in the late 15th century. Thereafter, Pius IV commissioned the addition of a Palazzo Apostolico in the 16th century.
A tour of this place should be followed with a visit to the Terme Taurine baths or the Roman Baths that are still used by locals. The modern name of this place is inspired from the dense growth or fig plants around the hot water pools. These baths are located at Ficoncella, to the north of the city and are a part of sightseeing tours that are organized by local travel agents.
The Cathedral and the Docks are also covered in these tours. The tour of the sights and sounds of Civitavecchia would definitely leave a mark on your heart and a smile on your lips.

Shopping and dining at Civitavecchia

There are excellent shopping and dining avenues at Civitavecchia where you can indulge in some retail therapy and treat your taste buds to authentic Italian cuisine. You can pick some interesting curios from the souvenir shops located in the main market or simply check the wares at the local market to see if something catches your fancy. For a sumptuous meal, you should head to the area near the main train station that is lined with several eateries including restaurants, cafes, pizzerias and trattorias.

Other useful tips

Take care of your belonging while traveling, do not drink while traveling on train and do not forget to avail the shuttle service from your cruise to the port pedestrian entrance. Happy journeying! 

Original Article Written for www.mediterraneanfuncruises.com