One of Europe’s best-known and most visited cities, Rome is full of stunning architecture, rich history and culture. The Italian capital makes for a must-visit cruise destination and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. The “Eternal City” is home to over 280 fountains, 900 churches, as well as countless historical buildings and pieces of art. It surrounds the world’s smallest city-state, Vatican City. With the headquarters of the Roman Catholic church literally footsteps away, you can visit two countries in one as part of your cruise holiday stop-over in Rome.

Cruise Ships departing from Rome in 2020

• Azamara Journey
• Azamara Pursuit
• Celebrity Apex
• Celebrity Constellation
• Celebrity Edge
• Celebrity Infinity
• Crown Princess
• Enchanted Princess
• Explorer of the Seas
• Jewel of the Seas

Where do Cruise Ships depart from in Rome?

Located 72km north or Rome, Civitavecchia is the most practical location for cruise ships to dock. Your cruise ship will dock at the Rome Cruise Terminal, which is located at the north-western end of the coastal town. From there, the most affordable way to get to Rome is by train. Departures to the city are roughly every 30 minutes and the journey to Rome takes about 1hr 50 minutes.

Things to see and do in Rome

Rome is one of Europe’s must-see destinations and during your European cruise holiday, you should allow some time to see the attractions we’ve listed below. Each provides you with the opportunity to take a look into the city’s ancient past. For a more in-depth look of the city check out our Cruise Guide to Rome.

Colosseum

First on our list if the symbol of Rome and one of Italy’s most-famous landmarks. If you’re a history buff then the Colosseum is a must-see attraction during your stopover in Rome. The Colosseum dates back to 72AD and was used as an entertainment precinct, showcasing gladiator fights, the exhibition of exotic animals, and more. Hosting up to an estimated 70,000 people, it was the largest amphitheatre of the Roman Empire. Today, it is Rome’s most visited tourist attraction, visited by some 6 million people every year. Speak to your activities officer on your cruise ship before you disembark, and ask them to pre-book a ticket.

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum provides you with a look into the city’s ancient political, religious and social life. As it was the centre of all happenings in the Eternal City, here you will have the opportunity to see the remains of some of Rome’s oldest and most significant structures, many of which were located on or around this site, including the ancient Roman temples of Romulus, Saturn, Venus and Vesta. Also, this site was home to the ancient royal residence, Regia, which dated back to the 8th century BC.

Trevi Fountain

No cruise ex Rome is complete without visiting and taking a photo in front of the Trevi Fountain. Considered the most beautiful fountain in all of Rome, the origins of Trevi go as far back as the year 19 BC. While you’re here, have some fun by engaging in the relatively new tradition of throwing a coin into the fountain. According to myth, throwing one coin in means you will return to Rome; throwing to coins in means you will fall in love with an attractive Italian; and, throwing three coins in means you will marry the person that you met. The tradition dates back to 1954, which is quite new for Rome!

Sistine Chapel

While you’re in Rome, head to the headquarters of the Roman Catholic church and make sure you visit Vatican City and its most famous tourist attraction, the Sistine Chapel. This attraction is always one of the most popular for cruise passengers, so be sure to arrive early if you want to take a look. Built between 1473 and 1481, this is the official residence of the Pope in Vatican City and one of the most significant buildings in the entire Catholic world. Inside, you will find a ceiling covered in frescoes, all of which are the work of Michelangelo. Works include, The Creation of Adam as well as The Last Judgement.

Pantheon

Before heading back to your cruise ship, consider a visit to the Pantheon. Rome is full of stunning architecture and the Pantheon is considered the city’s greatest masterpiece. Dating back to 126 AD, the building possesses the same height and diameter. Impressively, its main light source comes in the form of an oculus, providing ample natural lighting for the interior. The Pantheon is home to the tombs of past Italian kings, as well as a wide array of artworks, including most notably those of Raphael, a painter and Renaissance architect.