Civitavecchia Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Civitavecchia showing a sunset, skyline and landscape views
Wander around an ancient fort, watch cruise ships sail by or shop and dine in the typical Roman streets of this bustling Old Town.

Although in theory part of the wider metropolitan area of Rome, Civitavecchia is actually a small town set on a hillside beside the ocean. As well as being a quaint coastal town, it also forms the Port of Rome. Dating as far back as the 2nd century, this harbor was built by the emperor Trajan. Civitavecchia means Old Town and oozes history and Roman culture.

Begin your visit by admiring the solid Forte Michelangelo that dominates the harbor. It is named after the world-famous Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo who designed part of it. Although you can’t enter the fort, it an amazing sight to see in its picturesque surroundings.

From the fort, take a stroll across the Piazza della Vita and along the palm-lined promenade. Stop for a swim at Pirgo Beach or just relax on a deck chair in the shade of a parasol to escape the heat of the day. Enjoy lunch with a sea view in one of the many bars or restaurants.

Delve deeper into the hidden delights of Civitavecchia by ambling through the historic streets. Take a seat beneath a tree in the cobblestone Piazza Antonio Fratti and watch the Italians go about their daily business. Spend some time inside the cool realm of the Cathedral of Civitavecchia while admiring its religious artworks and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

Take a ride up into the hills and explore Terme Taurine, historic thermal baths that were used by the Romans. Information signs explain the in-depth history of the baths and the associated buildings. Surrounded by greenery, Terme Taurine also offers sweeping views of the coast and countryside.

Back in the city center, dress up smart and embrace the warm Mediterranean evenings like a local. The atmosphere becomes almost magic when Civitavecchia’s residents spill out into the streets to socialize and enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many local bars and cafés. Sample the world-famous Italian cuisine paired with a locally produced glass of wine.

Many people just pass through Civitavecchia from their cruise ship to the train station for the ride into Rome. But this town is much more than a port, so stay a while longer to enjoy everything this charming Old Town has to offer.

Hotel de La Ville
Hotel de La Ville
4 out of 5
Viale della Repubblica, 4, Civitavecchia, RM
The price is NZ$158 per night from 5 Apr to 6 Apr
NZ$158
per night
5 Apr - 6 Apr
Stay at this 4-star inn in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (510 reviews)
"Easy access from train and to cruise port. Very nice, comfortable, safe, modern and so welcoming. I’ll be back!"

Reviewed on 19 Mar. 2024

Hotel de La Ville
Hotel Traiano
Hotel Traiano
3 out of 5
via Fabio Filzi, 1, Civitavecchia, RM
The price is NZ$187 per night from 1 Apr to 2 Apr
NZ$187
per night
1 Apr - 2 Apr
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (706 reviews)
"Wonderful neighborhood! Provides glimpse of everyday Italian life. Bask in the culture !"

Reviewed on 24 Mar. 2024

Hotel Traiano
Hotel San Giorgio
Hotel San Giorgio
4 out of 5
Viale Garibaldi, 34, Civitavecchia, RM
The price is NZ$233 per night from 2 Apr to 3 Apr
NZ$233
per night
2 Apr - 3 Apr
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and breakfast. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
7.8/10 Good! (862 reviews)
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Reviewed on 19 Mar. 2024

Hotel San Giorgio
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Mowita seaside flat with stunning view on the sea
Mowita seaside flat with stunning view on the sea
Civitavecchia
Stay at this beach apartment in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Port of Civitavecchia and Piazza della ...
10/10 Exceptional! (24 reviews)
A beautiful weekend retreat
"On a whim, I booked a trip to Italy and found Marilì's listing when searching for a place to stay. I wanted to spend a long weekend somewhere quiet and beautiful, and Mowita was the perfect spot. Civitavecchia is an easy 40-min train ride from Rome, and Mowita is only a 5-minute walk from the station. ..."

Reviewed on 11 Mar. 2024

Mowita seaside flat with stunning view on the sea
Casa Delfino - Historic Center a stone's throw from the Beach, Port and Railway
Casa Delfino - Historic Center a stone's throw from the Beach, Port and Railway
Civitavecchia
Stay at this apartment in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free WiFi, a sauna, and onsite parking. Popular attractions Port of Civitavecchia and National Archaeological ...
10/10 Exceptional! (9 reviews)
First Italian experience
"Great location and very comfortable interior. Everything works perfectly as expected. Giovonni was very informative and helpful. We would definitely like to stay here again."

Reviewed on 21 Nov. 2023

Casa Delfino - Historic Center a stone's throw from the Beach, Port and Railway
Contemporary and elegant apartment overlooking the sea located in a central area
Contemporary and elegant apartment overlooking the sea located in a central area
Civitavecchia
Stay at this apartment in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and onsite parking. Popular attractions Port of Civitavecchia and Piazza della Vita ...
Contemporary and elegant apartment overlooking the sea located in a central area
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Reviews of Civitavecchia

4
Top destination
5 - Excellent
2
" "5 - Excellent 16.666666666666668%
4 - Good
8
" "4 - Good 66.66666666666667%
3 - Okay
2
" "3 - Okay 16.666666666666668%
2 - Disappointing
0
" "2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
" "1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
24 Oct 2019

We were here to join a cruise. The accommodation is walkable to the port, we didn't do any touring around this time.

5/5 - Excellent

James
21 Oct 2019

We wrre surprised to be able to eat some authentic Pakistani Chicken Rice Briani. Also, the wood fired ptzza were excellent. Enjoy the walks around the old city too. Have fun and relax while you are in Civitavecchia.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
3 Jun 2019

It's a port city and we only overnighted, but we enjoyed our short stay.

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