Last Updated on 24th March 2024 by Bejal
Civitavecchia is a port city, on the west coast of Italy around 61 km from the capital, Rome. It’s name means, ancient town, and is predominantly known as being Italy’s largest cruise port terminal, with thousands of passengers passing through it daily. Spending a day in Civitavecchia is a lovely way to get to explore this lesser known port destination.
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The city is dominated by a large harbour which is said to have been built during the second century by the Roman Emperor, Trajan and today remains as being the original Roman dock. Those on Mediterranean cruise with an itinerary including Rome, will be docking at Civitavecchia as it is part of the metropolitan city of Rome.
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Often Civitavecchia is overlooked for a day trip to Rome, by many cruise passengers but for those who would like a very authentic taste of Italy at the coast with a lot less crowds, if any, staying in Civitavecchia is a great choice. Alternatively, for those on a land holiday in Rome needing to get away to the coast, Civitavecchia is a great choice to learn a little more about Etruscan civilisation in the surroundings.
This one day guide of Civitavecchia aims to give a taste of the highlights of the port city with the best things to see and do, places to experience the best cuisine as well as where to stay, if you have more than a day to spare.
Where is Civitavecchia Located?
Civitavecchia is located on the western coast of Italy on the Tyrrhenian Sea. As well as the port city’s links with being a major port for the cruise liners, it is also a regular terminal for direct ferries across to the island of Sardinia.
The Best Time To Visit Civitavecchia
The driest weather to visit Civitavecchia is naturally June, July and August but these time also the busiest with cruise ships and school holidays. The shoulder season including April, May, September, October and November are a great time to visit. The weather is still milder and there are not many crowds which means you can wonder around at leisure.
How to Get To Civitavecchia
Civitavecchia can be reached by a number of transport options.
Flights
The closest airport to Civitavecchia is Rome Fiumicino, located 50.1 km away and takes about 90 minutes to drive to Civitavecchia. Rome Ciampino is around 73.1 km away and Florence is the furthest at 196.1 km in distance.
Car
It’s quick and easy to hire a car at any of the airports in Italy and travelling by car is the most flexible way, especially if you want to do a lot of independent exploring.
Be-lavie Tip: Note that in Europe, unlike in the UK and other countries, they drive on the right hadn’t side.
Cruise
Visitors alighting Civitavecchia on a cruise can just take the free shuttle into the centre of Civitavecchia and explore the town at leisure. Usually the shuttle stop just outside of the train station and you can ether hop on the train to Roma or other cities in Italy or simply have a mooch around Civitavecchia.
Train
If you’re in Rome and fancy a day trip to Civitavecchia, it’s possible to visit for less than €5 and it only takes around 50 minutes each way. It’s quite a cost effective and eco-friendly way to make the journey to Civitavecchia (città) and admire the local countryside.
How To Get Around Civitavecchia
The best way to get around Civitavechhia is on foot. It’s a great place to meander the narrows streets and stumble upon surprise piazzas and winding streets as well as churches and hidden corners.
How To Spend A Day in Civitavecchia
Some of the best things to discover with one day in Civitavecchia, including local’s favourite spots.
Fort Michelangelo
The most famous of all attractions in Civitavecchia has to be Fort Michelangelo. This unmissable 16th century stronghold is the Lazio coastlines most historical military sites.
The fortress was originally constructed to protect the very busy Civitavecchia Port against pirates who were on the hunt to steal during the 15th and 16th centuries.
The walls of the fortress are six metres in thickness and in good condition however the moat that once surrounded it is no longer there.
Fort Michelangelo is said to have been commissioned by Pope Giulio II at the start of the 16th century and inherited it’s name because the great Michelangelo designed its central tower called, Maschio. There is also a central courtyard.
- Location: Calata Cesare Laurenti, 5, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 0766 19431
- Find on: Google Map
- Website: Fortezza Michelangelo
- Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 09:00-12:00.
Be-lavie Tip: You cannot go inside the fort as it is occupied by the Italian Military but you can walk outside the perimeter, which has no charge.
National Archaeological Museum of Civitavecchia
This museum is a must-visit for culture vultures as it displays the ancient history of Civitavecchia. The museum’s location is a few steps away from the Fort Michelangelo, housed in an impressive 18th century building. The exhibits (mainly including pottery dating back to centuries, bronze works, statues and sculptures) are displayed across three floors and date back from the ancient time through the Middle Ages.
- Location: Largo Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 1, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 0766 23604
- Find on Google Maps:
- Website: National Archaeological Museum
- Opening Hours: Tues-Sun: 8:30am – 19:30pm (last admission 19:00)
- Admission: €3.00
Terme Taurine
Sometimes referred to as the Taurine Baths or The Baths of Trajan, Terme taurine is known to be the best of all archaeological sites in Civitavecchia. They are located, 5 km from the centre of the city and have prime position on a hill circled by foliage.
If your itinerary allows taking around two hours to head to the Terme Taurine is a great option. Expect to see very well preserved Roman Baths consisting of bathhouses, changing rooms and bedrooms. Make it a point to check out the on site botanic garden and walk in the footsteps of the Romans, as they would walk post and pre bath.
- Location: Via Terme di Traiano, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 338 327 9798
- Find on Google Map:
- Website: Terme Taurine
- Opening Hours: Tues-Sun 09:30-13:00
- Admission: €5.00
Medieval Town Centre
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Right at the heart of Civitabecchia’s medieval town centre or Centro Storico, is Piazza Leandro, also the city’s oldest square. All around the square there are centuries old alleys and paths which lead to the town’s attraction such as the Church of the Star and the Vanvitelli Fountain.
Head to Piazza Leandra via the adjoining Piazza Aurelio Saffi and through the Archetto Passageway which is a medieval gate
Market lovers need to head to the famous, San Lorenzo market located on Piazza Margherita. If you fancy some shopping then here you can pick up fruit, veggies as well as the very fresh catch of the day!
- Location: Piazza Leandra. 00053 Civitacvecchia
- Find on Google Map
Darsena Romana
This is the original ancient Roman dock and sea wall that was built in Trajan’s era and still partially can be seen as unfortunately much of Civitavecchia was almost entirely destroyed during World war II.
- Location: snc, 00053 Civitavecchia I +39 0766 502898
- Find on Google Maps
- Website: Darsena Romana
Santa Maria dell’ Orazione e Morte
Referred to as a true Roman basilica in miniature, this church dates back to the 1700s and features an elliptical shape and a dome painted by Giuseppe Errante.
Santa Maria dell Orazione e Morte is a Baroque church, just like the others in Civitavecchia and has some noteworthy frescoes inside. The church is commonly known for its interior balustrade from the stern of a boat. During the Easter procession, the wooden statue of the resurrected Christ, is carrie through the streets.
- Location: Via Gabriele D’Annunzio, 23, 00053 Civitavecchia +39 0766 24337
- Find on Google Maps
- Website: Santa Maria dell’ Orazione e
Short of Time: Check Out These Civitavecchia Tours
Civitavecchia Waterfront
The most striking thing about Civitavecchia waterfront is the, Unconditional Surrender. It’s a huge very colourfully striking sculpture of a naval sailor kissing a nurse. You can’t miss it on the promenade.
This statue is one of many of its kind which originally emulates the Eisenstadt photo taken in Time Square in New York City at the end of World War II.
Walking along the promenade is quite a relaxing experience and at the end of the beach, there are a few great restaurants and cafes where you can grab some great local dishes.
- Location: Can’t be missed as you come into the port – look for the Embracing peace statue
- Find on Google Map:
Principe Tommaso Promenade
The promenade has a 17th century defence wall built by the designer of the famous St. Peter’s Basilica, Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Bernini was instructed by Pope Urban VIII as he was worried about enemy landings and needed Civitacvecchia to be protected from attacks.
- Location: Via Principe Tommaso 19, 00053. Civitavecchia.
- Find on Google Maps:
Vanvitelli Fountain
The Vanvitelli Fountain is named after its designer Luigi Vanvitelli and is a meeting spot for the locals. The fountain was commissioned by Pope Benedict XIV in 1740 and is the only sculptor or art work of its kind on the defence wall. The fountain water spray out from the mouth of a faun, which is quite the unusual feature.
- Location: Calata della Rocca, 00053 Civitavecchia
- Find on Google Map
Corso Centocelle
This is the main pedestrian walkway and is one of the busier parts of Civitavecchia lined with shops, street entertainers as well as some fan al fresco dining spots.
Be-lavie Tip: Be careful to note the Etruscan ruins that were discovered under the pavement. They are displayed under glass and you may well walk over them.
Civitavecchia’s main theatre named after the city’s founder (Trajan Theatre) is also located on Corso Centocelle. Theatre Trajan (Traiano) is the main theatre and features a neo classical façade dating back to approximately 1800. In 1999, the building was restored undergoing much modernisation if you’re lucky enough to catch a show here, the auditorium can seat nearly 650 in the audience.
- Location: Corso Centocelle. 00053 Civitavecchia
- Find on Google Maps: (Corso Centocell)
- Location (Teatro Traiano): Corso Centocelle, 2, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 0766370011
- Find on Google Maps (Teatro Traiano)
- Website: Teatro Traiano
Porta Livorno
Built back in 1761, the huge monumental gates construction was instructed by Pope Clement XIII. It’s aim was to help the port converse better with the Northern Side of Civitavecchia. You’ll find Porta Livorno in the heart of the historic port and it’s name was intentional as it looks out towards the Tuscan coastal city of Livorna.
- Location: Sottoportici del Consolato, 2, 00053 Civitavecchia
- Find on Goggle Maps
Mercato di Civitavecchia (San Lorenzo Market)
Civitavecchia market, which is also called San Lorenzo market has prime location in the historic centre of Civitavecchia just close to Piazza Regina Margeherita.
Local businesses as well as the locals of Civitavecchia flock here each morning to buy local fresh foods such as fruit, vegetables, as well as heading to the flagship of the city, the fish market. The market started to take shape from 1884 onwards with the reunification of the city walls. The fish market dates back to 1904 and many of the city’s seafood restaurants head here to but their catch of the day.
- Location: Piazza Regina Margherita, 11, 00053 Civitavecchia
- Find on Google Maps
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 06:30-13:00
Ghetto Di Civitavecchia
During the 17th century, Pope Innocent XII built the ghetto to host the Jewish community who didn’t come. It’s full of old buildings and is super picturesque. It’s also one of the most non-touristy places in Civitavechhia.
The main square in the ghetto, Piazza Fratti has a real local feel about it. It feels very authentic here. The square here is a great place to get some very local yet delicious food.
Where To Stay In Civitavecchia
Civitavecchia has some really great options when it comes to hotels. They are great value for money and suitable for all budgets.
Hotel De La Ville // Luxury
This large 19th century ex-mansion house is now one of the luxurious hotels in Civitavecchia with a surprisingly affordable price tag. Many of the rooms facing the seafront, have windows which open out and provide beautiful sunset views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The hotel is decorated in a classical traditional style, in keeping with it’s classic past and is perfectly located to walk to all the points of interest as well as the train station and port, naturally.
One of Hotel De La Ville’s stand-out features is the breakfast room and dining space which is in the vaulted cellar space which as built within the walls of the former Roman Baths.
- Location: Viale della Repubblica, 4, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 0766 580507
- Find on Google Maps
Seataly Experience // Mid-range
Located right on the seafront, with a beautiful terrace, these comfortable appointed rooms in a guesthouse offer a shared lounge, and a location very close to the attractions. It is also only 2.1 km from Pirgo beach.
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All rooms have a private bathroom with all the usual amenities to a high standard plus each morning an Italian style breakfast is served.
Be-lavie: This is a great place to stay if you plan to enjoy the beaches around Civitavecchia and is great for those travelling with children.
- Location: Via Sofia de Filippi Mariani, 7, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 331 226 8985
- Find on Google Map
Hotel Porto Di Roma // Value for Money
Set right in the heart of Civitavecchia’s old town, only 450 metres from the harbour and close to shops and great restaurants, this small hotel, guest house is decorated in bright and airy hues.
It’s great for families as well as couples and has all the usual amenities one would expect from a good quality affordable hotel. A continental style breakfast is offered each morning to all guests together with a welcome drink.
- Location: Via Monte Grappa, 27, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 0766 092007
- Find on Google Map
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Where To Eat & Drink Like a Local in Civitavecchia
Civitavecchia has quite the established food scene with a great mix of modern stylish restaurants, trattorias and cafes. It’s probably no surprise that due to Civitavecchia’s coastal location, a lot of emphasis is places on seafood.
Things To Try When In Civitavecchia
For the seafood-lovers
- Civitaveccia fish soup – a pesto sauce with crustaceans, molluscs and wine served with croutons.
- Stuffed Calamari – the stuffing consists of braed crumbus, garlic, eggs, parsley, chilli pepper and chopped squid tentacles cooked in white wine.
- Civitavecchia style Octopus – cooked upon olive oil, garlic and parsley with a handful of octopus.
- Civitavecchia style snails – garlic, parsley, chilly pepper is fried in oil with anchovy paste then topped with tomato paste and mint after which the snails and white wine are added.
- Seafood Tagliatelle – usually this is made from scampi, mussels and clams cooked in parsley, salt chilli, garlic and white wine.
For the vegetarians
- Civitavecchia stuffed pizza – this is a great street food dish and prepared with a base of tomato (anchovies-optional), parsley, garlic, mozzarella and lots of chilli. This can be found in all Puzzareias in the city,
Be-lavie Tip: Many dishes can be made vegetarian so it’s best to ask the chefs for their recommendations and traditional alternatives to meat.
For the sweet – lovers
- Civitavecchia’s Christmas Biscuits – based on a traditional recipe containing, toasted almonds, candies fruit and chocolate and made differently by each family and store.
- Fave da Morto – Almond biscuits which are made on all Soul’s Day (2nd November).
- San Giuseppe Fritters – Tardionally eaten on Father’s Day (March, 19th), these contain rice, milk, butter, sugar, eggs, rum, cinnamon, yeast, lemon and raisons and are deep fried and coated in sugar.
The Best Civitavecchia Food Tours
Essential tours for food and drink lovers.
Places To Eat & Drink In Civitavecchia
Forma
This is a modern contemporary Italian restaurant located close to the medieval district and is featured in the Michelin Guide.
- Location: via Trieste 9, Civitavecchia, 00053 I +39 0766672647
- Find on Google Map
- Website: Forma
- Price Range: €€
Pizzeria del Grotto
One of the best Pizzerias in Civitavecchia is a no frill affair where they only make two types of pizza. A Marguerite and a Marinara. They’re cut up with scissors and served on a piece of paper. It’s a typical locals spot and sure is authentic. Great if you fancy something local and really good on the go.
- Location: Via Luigi Cadorna, 17, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 076629276
- Find on Google Maps
- Price Range: €
Danilo Bar Pasticceria Gelateria
Located close to the port, this spot is perfect for a typical Italian breakfast. They have some tables out side where you can sit and enjoy a pastry and cappuccino and people watch!
- Location: Corso Guglielmo Marconi, 40, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 076634141
- Find on Google Maps
- Price Range: €
Chalet del Pinco
This bar is located about 300 metres from the port and specialises in gelato and Maritozzo, a sweet bread with whipped cream.
- Location: Via Buonarroti, 3, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 076621283
- Find on Google Maps
- Price Range: €
Taberna Leandra
A wonderful place for aperitivo and a huge selection of wines plus cocktails are also on the menu. This is a great bar spot on the popular Piazza Leandra. They also do local cheese and cold cut meat boards to accompany your wines.
- Location: Piazza Leandra, 11, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 3921221002
- Find on Google Maps:
- Price Range: €€
Yogorino Coffee
This is a great coffee shop come cafe serving light bites such as pizza, pastries and gelato as well as some great quality coffee.
- Location: Via Zara, 11, 00053 Civitavecchia I Tel. +39 076622409
- Find on Google Maps
- Price Range: €€
The Best Day Trips From Civitavecchia
Here are some of the best day trips you can take from Civitavecchia
Civitavecchia Itineraries
Whether you’re in Civitavecchia for one, two or three days, take inspiration from these itinerary options.
One Day Civitavecchia Itinerary
If you’re arriving via cruise to spend a day in Civitavecchia then consider…
- Grab a coffee and pastry at Danilo Bar Pasticceria Gelateria
- Head to the Fort Michelangelo
- National Archaeological Museum of Civitavecchia
- Medieval Town Centre
- Head to San Lorenzo market before 13:00
- Lunch at Pizzeria del Grotto
- Terme Taurine
- Santa Maria dell’ Orazione e Morte
- Civitavecchia Waterfront
- Vanvitelli Fountain
- Principe Tommaso Promenade
- Porta Livorno
- Il Ghetto Neighbourhood
Two Day Civitavecchia Itinerary
- Day one as one day Itinerary.
- Stay at the Hotel de la Ville.
- Book a days guided tour in Rome, to take in all the main sights.
- Watch a show at Teatro Traiano if possible.
- Try out more of Civitavecchia’s culinary scene.
Three Day Civitavecchia Itinerary
- Day one as one day Itinerary.
- Book a days guided tour in Rome, to take in all the main sights.
- Spend the final day relaxing at the beaches in Civitavecchia.
- Book a special meal at Forma or try out some of the other restaurants in Civitavecchia.
Is Civitavecchia Worth Visiting?
Civitavecchia is definitely worth a visit. If you are starting your cruise at this port or simply fancy a day of exploring a much quieter town then Civitavecchia has enough to keep you occupied. Prices are also a lot more reasonable than in Rome.
Civitavecchia Google Map
Click on the map below to directly link to our Google Map of Civitavecchia, featuring all the highlights. of this port city as well as everything included in this guide
How to Spend One Day in Civitavecchia Round-Up
Civitavecchia is definitely a port city in Italy that is worthy of a visit. There’s great history, enough to do in a leisurely fashion for a couple of days and beaches to hang out at. The accommodation options are fantastic quality but at a fraction of the cost of Rome or other larges cities sin Italy. Additionally there are so many wonderful eateries which serve authentic cuisine of the region. Your time, however long or short in Civitavecchia will be perfect to wander the streets, experiencing the local way of life and immersing yourself into the culture. If spending the day here from a cruise, it’s great slow city to take things easy, if you just want to relax too.
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