Civitavecchia

Travel Guide

Civitavecchia
Photo by Hannah
Photo by Majid Shaheen
Photo "Civitavecchia" by Giovanni Dore (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo "Civitavecchia" by Giovanni Dore (CC BY) / Cropped from original

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 harbour 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 harbour. 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 centre, 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 Traiano

Hotel Traiano

3 out of 5
via Fabio Filzi, 1, Civitavecchia, RM
The price is RM405 per night from 26 Oct to 27 Oct
RM405
RM485 total
26 Oct - 27 Oct
includes taxes & fees
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! (1,010 reviews)
"Very friendly hotel owner and so helpful. Arranged our evening dinner at sister hotel/restaurant with transportation too!!!! Helped with our transportation to the pier the next day! Nice enjoyable breakfast included the next morning!!!t very SAFE!!!!"

Reviewed on 11 Oct 2025

Hotel Traiano
Hotel de La Ville

Hotel de La Ville

4 out of 5
Viale della Repubblica, 4, Civitavecchia, RM
Stay at this 4-star property in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (872 reviews)
"The hotel de la Ville was very comfortable, clean and the breakfast was excellent. The staff was very friendly and helpful especially in organizing our transport to the port and giving suggestions for the location of a super market."

Reviewed on 8 Oct 2025

Hotel de La Ville
Hotel San Giorgio

Hotel San Giorgio

4 out of 5
Viale Garibaldi, 34, Civitavecchia, RM
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,005 reviews)
A nice hotel for the start or end of a cruise.
"The balcony was nice but could use a little attention. The umbrella was not functional as an example. The view was nice and it was pleasant sitting out."

Reviewed on 11 Oct 2025

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.
Le Dimore di Traiano

Le Dimore di Traiano

Via Terme di Traiano 27, Civitavecchia, RM
Stay at this vacation home in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free WiFi, bathrobes, and an in-room espresso maker. Popular attractions Port of Civitavecchia and Largo della ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"Newly furnished, easy access. Very clean. Thoroughly recommended. Just a stop over for us after the ferry from Barcelona but would definitely stay again."

Reviewed on 12 Oct 2025

Le Dimore di Traiano
Tiny Loft Skydeck

Tiny Loft Skydeck

Via degli Agricoltori 11, Civitavecchia, RM
Stay at this apartment in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free WiFi. Popular attractions Port of Civitavecchia and National Archaeological Museum of Civitavecchia are located ...
Tiny Loft Skydeck
Cozy Sea View Apartment in Civitavecchia

Cozy Sea View Apartment in Civitavecchia

Civitavecchia
Stay at this apartment in Civitavecchia. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Port of Civitavecchia and Largo della Pace are located ...
"Cosa dire? Tutto perfetto , proprietari molto gentili e disponibili!"

Reviewed on 5 Dec 2022

Cozy Sea View Apartment in Civitavecchia
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

Things to do

Reviews of Civitavecchia

3.7
Guest rating
5 - Excellent
3
5 - Excellent 27%
4 - Good
3
4 - Good 27%
3 - Okay
4
3 - Okay 36%
2 - Disappointing
1
2 - Disappointing 9%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveller

Don't expect instant taxi arrival, even when the hotel manages to contact one. The good point is that there is a shuttle bus from the railway station to the port every ten minutes, costing only 2 Euros.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Charming town well worth exploring