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Why go to Rome (Civitavecchia)?
Pros: Rome is easily walkable and boasts some of the world's most famous ancient landmarks.
Cons: From the cruise port, it takes at least an hour by train or bus to reach Rome.
Bottom Line: A day in Rome is worth every second of the long commute needed to get there.
Where You’re Docked
Civitavecchia has been the port of Rome since Emperor Trajan's time in A.D. 108. It is about 1.5 to 2 hours by taxi or bus from Rome, depending on traffic. Free shuttles typically ferry passengers from their ships to downtown Civitavecchia.
Rome (Civitavecchia) Cruise Port Facilities
This is a commercial port, and it's about a 20-minute walk into the city, although there are basic services like Internet, a deli and a small market just outside the gates of the port. The other important "service" Civitavecchia offers is a train station, about a mile outside the port, with a direct line to Rome.
This is a commercial port and it's about a 20-minute walk into the city, although there are basic services like Internet, a deli and a small market, just outside the gates of the port. The other important "service" Civitavecchia offers is a train station, about a mile outside the port, with a direct line to Rome.
Good to Know
Watch out for pickpockets on buses and at the major tourist sights (especially the Colosseum, where there are often bands of gypsies).
Getting Around
From Civitavecchia: The bus trip or taxi ride to Rome takes 1.5 to 2 hours. The other option: Take the train, which leaves every half-hour from Civitavecchia (takes a little more than an hour) and lands right in the heart of Rome at Termini Station. Additionally, most cruise lines offer both a motorcoach transfer option and organized tours. If you're not a tour type, one advantage here to the cruise line motorcoach option is that if the motorcoach is late coming back, the cruise ship will wait. Taxis line up at the port, too; plan to pay about $150 each way to Rome and back.
In Rome: Rome is a great walking city; within the center area, most of the major historic attractions, shopping areas and fabulous piazzas are easy to get to on foot. However, Rome's bus system is also efficient and simple to navigate, particularly from Termini Station. The Metropolitana or Metro (marked by a big red M) is the city's subway system.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money
The local currency is the euro. Get cash from an ATM machine that's compatible with your local bank. Local "cambio" shops exchange dollars to euros, though at higher rates than at ATM's. Banks also provide exchange services for a fee. You can use credit cards, but dollars are generally not accepted by retailers and restaurants.
Language
Italian is the official language, but many people you encounter will speak at least some English.
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