5 Best Things to do on a Cruise to Rome

Rome. The Eternal City. Heart of an Empire with Boundaries!

With over two thousand years of history, the city serves as the capital of Italy and is a major center of attraction for tourists from across the world. Rome is also the nerve center of the Roman Catholic faith, with the Vatican, home to the Pope. It is well-connected by road, rail, air, and sea routes, with the 2nd century AD port town Civitavecchia serving the latter requirements.

5 Things to do in Rome on Cruise

Where do cruise ships dock in Rome? Civitavecchia (meaning “old town” in Latin) is located about 60 odd miles from Rome. It is famous as a leading cruise ship port-of-call and ranks among one of the busiest Mediterranean seaboards. The port is about an hour’s drive to Rome and is a perfect stop for a day trip to the Italian capital if you are arriving on a cruise.

We have put together a quick list of five things to do in Rome on a cruise.

1. Take in the Roman Countryside

Our journey begins in the surroundings of the majestic city. In constant habitation for over two and a half thousand years, the countryside is rich in natural treasures, picture-perfect towns, and eons-old culinary traditions.

Make a quick stopover at Tivoli, the favorite resort of the ancient Roman travelers, and pay a visit to Hadrian’s Villa and the Villa d’Este. Or, head over to Castelli Romani in the famed Alban Hills, a collection of 13 historical townships. The landmarks here include the town of Frascati, under the watchful eyes of the Villa Aldobrandini, whose 16th-century façade dominates the surrounding Italianesque gardens. Or, head over to Grottaferrata, the picture-postcard village with medieval heritage. And, do not forget to stop at Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence overlooking the Lago di Albano, a lake of volcanic origins.

2. Enjoy a Panoramic Tour of Rome

Let’s now head over to the main city to take in its historical marvels. Pay a visit to the Imperial Forum, the heart of the metropolis, make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, and marvel at the Spanish Steps. Spare some time to visit the Pantheon (Angels and Demons, anyone) and take a moment to gather your breath at the Piazza Navonna.

Remember to walk up Capitol Hill; history walks with you as you tread the same steps covered once by the Roman Caesars of old.

3. Discover the Vatican

Located almost in the center of Rome, the Vatican is the smallest independent sovereign state. It is a treasure trove of art and historical objects, starting from the majestic Saint Peter’s Basilica to the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. Your visit to the museums may take some time as they are alone over nine miles long.

While a detailed tour at the Vatican may take a lot more than a day on shore, do take the short guided option in case you are pressed for time.

4. Visit the Colosseum

No visit to Rome is ever complete without glancing at the iconic Colosseum. Completed in 80 AD, this unparalleled amphitheater was built to seat over fifty thousand spectators. It was an engineering marvel for its time and had a fully functional ancient elevator system and the ability to flood the stage for organizing mock naval battles.

Designed as a place to entertain the ancient Romans with games, such as chariot races and gladiator fights, the Colosseum will attract you with its magical atmosphere from the past.

5. Wander Through the Fashion Districts

Italy is known for high fashion and design, with Rome as one of the fashion capitals of the modern world. Therefore, a visit to the city is never complete unless you take some time to stop over at the shopping and fashion districts.

For your day trip, you could look to involve the services of a personal shopper and image consultant who would help you choose the perfect items, from dresses to bags, belts, hats, and shoes. Take a moment to enjoy the luxuries that the Eternal City offers.

Make the Most of Your Shore Stay

If you are taking a Mediterranean cruise with a shore stop near Rome, then please do take some time to consider a day trip at minimum to the Roman countryside. There is no lack of things to do in Rome on a cruise, and the Eternal City is sure to leave you spell-bound if not asking for more.

Also, Read:

• Top 5 Things to do in Rome on Cruise
• What Things to Do in Nice, France?