Crowned as one of the most romantic cities in Europe, Rome is a destination that has it all. This jewel in Italy’s boot is brimming with stunning architecture, Roman culture, gelato parlours that fringe pastel-coloured streets, and enough pizza and pasta to fuel your sightseeing for a whole week. Tick off iconic sights such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum, wander (or people-watch) in Piazza Navona, and throw a penny into the famous Trevi Fountain – not forgetting to make a wish! Home to the Civitavecchia port, you’ll have time to wander this spectacular corner of the city – which has a host of monuments and archaeological sites of its own to explore – before heading out to sea.
When is the best time to cruise from Rome?
The best time to depart on a cruise from Rome is between April-November when temperatures are pleasant and there’s plenty of sunshine, with May being the most popular month. However, cruise lines such as MSC Cruises sail all-year-round (even in winter), so depending on where you’re travelling to you can catch some winter rays.
Which cruise lines sail from Rome?
Civitavecchia is the port for Rome, located an hour north of the city. It’s a pretty major cruise port so you’ll find a host of cruise ships setting sail here, including mainstream brands MSC, NCL and Royal Caribbean, plus luxury cruise lines such as Silversea and Seabourn.
Where do cruises from Rome go to?
Cruises from Rome generally head for the Western Med, Italy & Malta, with other longer cruises visiting the Eastern Med and some of the iconic Greek Isles, including Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes.
What should you do whilst you’re in Rome?
This famous city is a treasure trove of history, culture, cosmopolitan vibes, and mouth-watering cuisine, so whether you’re visiting for 24 hours or a whole week – you’ll never run out of things to do in Rome.
Want to soak it all up but don’t know where to start? Book a guided tour with a local and uncover the city’s hidden nooks and crannies – it’s one of the best ways to experience a destination’s authenticity away from the major tourist draws. Or perhaps you want to whizz through the city streets in style? Hop in an old-fashioned Italian Fiat 500 and navigate the labyrinth of cobbled streets following a local tour guide – Italian job style!
Whether you’re a self-confessed art connoisseur, or not, you must admire the city’s iconic architecture while you’re visiting – starting with the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel (and it’s larger Vatican Museum). Wander the grounds and marvel over the work of world-famous Michelangelo. Or if you’re more of a history buff, the Colosseum is where to head – but prepare to queue!
It goes without saying that foodies will be in heaven here, and simply must sample as much gelatos as possible – the Pistachio ice cream is an absolute winner. Prefer a savoury snack? Let your nose lead you to Forno di Campo de’ Fiori, where you can savour a slice (or two) of Pizza Bianca – it’s been a city hot spot for over 500 years!
Extend your stay?
Not ready to leave Italy’s boot? There’s so much of this beautiful city to explore, whether you want to tick off its enchanting architecture or its gelato parlours! Once you’ve seen the sights in Rome, why not head to Naples or the stunning Amalfi Coast for a day or two? Both are within easy reach. Or head north to Florence…
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