Ahoy, cruise travelers! So, you’re about to have the time of your life cruising the Mediterranean. You’ve been told you’ll be docking at Rome’s Cruise Port. But how are you going to get from Rome Cruise Port To The Airport? Or if you are leaving from Rome Cruise Port how will you get from the Airport to the Cruise Port?
Fortunately, I’ve done quite a few cruises in the Mediterranean that have started and finished from Rome’s Cruise port, so I’ve created this handy cruise tip guide showing you all the options that are available to you.
From Rome Cruise Port To The Airport – Where is Rome Cruise Port?
Okay, let’s start with the basics. There is no cruise port in Rome. Check the map and you’ll understand why. The nearest cruise port to Rome is actually in Civitavecchia, which is located about 48 miles ( 78 km ) north west of Rome.
So you can add Rome to the list of non-existent ports that Cruise Lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Celebrity Cruise, Norwegian, MSC, etc all use this as part of their marketing.
Cruising from London? Nope, you’ll be leaving from Dover. Cruising from Venice, nope that’s Ravenna. Cruising from Orlando. Nope, that’s Port Canaveral. I’m sure you get the picture.
They’ll list the port as cruising from “Rome (Civitavecchia)”. This can cause a lot of travel confusion for cruisers leaving from that port for the first time. So you do need to be aware of it.
I remember when the cruise ships were stopped going into Venice. We had a cruise booked that showed it was now leaving from Venice (Ravenna). I at first assumed it might be a port about 10-15 miles away (Venice is on the coast). But once I checked I discovered it was actually located 85 miles away (135km). Venice wasn’t even the closest airport to fly into.
So always be careful when checking your travel plans and never assume the actual cruise port is in the City listed on the itinerary.
Civitavecchia Port: Rome’s Closest Cruise Port and Gateway to the Sea
Now that we have established that Rome’s cruise port is actually Civitavecchia, let’s talk about the cruise port and the town itself.
Often overshadowed by the grandeur of Rome, Civitavecchia is a gem in its own right. As the main cruise port serving the “Eternal City”, it’s always very busy with tourists, eager to explore or head home. Due to the distances involved and the amount of tourists that are around, planning your transfer options in advance is key!
The port itself is a hive of activity, with cruise ships, ferries, and yachts coming and going. The town of Civitavecchia, with its historic fort and beautiful seafront promenade, is worth considering for a short stay before or after your cruise.
Which Rome Airport Are You Headed To? Rome Fiumicino Airport or Ciampino Airport?
Rome boasts two main airports: Rome Fiumicino Airport and Rome Ciampino Airport. Depending on your destination, you’ll need to choose your transfer method accordingly.
Fiumicino, also known as Leonardo da Vinci Airport, is the larger of the two and handles most international flights. It’s equipped with numerous amenities, shops, and eateries.
Ciampino, on the other hand, is closer to the city center and is often preferred by budget airlines. It’s smaller and has fewer amenities but can be a quicker option for those staying in central Rome for a few days at the beginning or end of your cruise.
Is Taking the Train that Runs Between Rome and the Port of Civitavecchia a Good Idea?
Absolutely! Trains are a popular choice for many travelers, and the Italian train system is very efficient and easy to navigate.
From Civitavecchia Station to Fiumicino Airport
From the Civitavecchia train station, you can catch a direct train to central Rome ( Rome Termini ). From Termini station, switch to the Leonardo Express train to get to Fiumicino Airport. The cost is very inexpensive (around $12) and the journey time varies from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the time of day.
From Civitavecchia Station to Ciampino Airport
From Civitavecchia train station to Ciampino Airport, the journey is very similar. Take the train to Roma Termini and then switch trains to Ciampino. You will however have a short bus shuttle to take at Ciampino to take you into the airport. Expect to pay between $10-$12 per person depending on the time of day. Journey time is from 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 and a quarter hours depending on the train service and time of day.
If Time is an Issue – Get the Express Train
There is a train that operates every two hours and the travel time is just 47 minutes into central Rome. It can be worth checking if this fits in with your timetable, but the price is almost three times higher (around $22).
Whichever train you choose, the journey from Civitavecchia into Rome city center is very scenic, efficient, and won’t break the bank. Just be sure to check train times and keep a close eye on your luggage! Especially once you get into Rome itself. Rome is notorious for petty crime and pickpockets. Be very careful. We were on an excursion into Rome with a friend and he had his wallet removed from an inside jacket pocket!
How to book train tickets
We use and recommend Trainline.com to check train times and book your tickets. Trainline operates throughout Europe. Trains run at frequent intervals with multiple departure times, making it very convenient for cruise travelers with various flight times to factor in.
How to Get From the Cruise Ship to Civitavecchia train station
The Civitavecchia railway station is a short distance from the port, and there are regular regional and intercity trains connecting it to Rome and other parts of Italy.
You can either walk (it’s about 1 mile), or you can try and catch one of the shuttle buses that go back and forward to the port. They can be a bit inefficient, however. Alternatively, you can grab a taxi. Always agree on your destination and fare before getting into the taxi.
Budget-Friendly Bus Rides: Are They The Cheapest Transfer?
If you’re watching your pennies after splurging on souvenirs, buses are normally a great option. However, in this case, it will be cheaper to take the train.
Several shuttle services operate between Civitavecchia, Central Rome, and Rome’s airports. While they might take a tad longer, they offer a unique perspective of the Italian countryside. Buses are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and ample space for luggage.
Private Transfers: Luxury or Necessity?
After a relaxing cruise, the last thing you want is transport stress. This is where private transfers can be useful for taking away some of that stress. With door-to-door service, professional drivers, and spacious vehicles, it’s a nice way to start or end your vacation.
If you’re traveling with a big group or have lots of luggage, a private shuttle might just be your best bet. These services often offer fixed rates, child seats, and can accommodate special requests. Plus, there’s the added benefit of a personal meet and greet at the port or airport.
If there are a few of you in your group this can work out relatively inexpensive and takes so much stress out of the journey.
Private Transfer Rome-Civitavecchia Port or Civitavecchia-Rome
Take the guesswork out of traveling between Rome and the Civitavecchia cruise port with this VIP private transfer. Enjoy pickup directly at your hotel or cruise ship and let your professional driver navigate Rome's notorious traffic while you relax on board an air-conditioned sedan or minivan. Arrive at your final destination hassle-free with drop-off steps from your cruise ship or at your final destination in Rome or at the Airport.
- Travel between Rome and the Civitavecchia cruise port in record time
- Professional driver, air-conditioned Mercedes, Wi-Fi, and luggage storage
- Choose a Rome to Civitavecchia or a Civitavecchia to Rome transfer
- Choose Central Rome or Any of Rome's Two Airports
- Flexible pick-up times to fit your cruise arrival or departure
The Fastest Ways to Transfer: Express Train Service or Private Car Transfer
If you’re pressed for time, consider catching the express train service that runs every couple of hours or private car transfers.
Both options minimize travel time, ensuring you get to the airport with time to spare for some duty-free shopping. Express trains have fewer stops, while private cars can take the quickest routes, avoiding traffic and delays.
What Do Cruise Lines Recommend?
Many cruise lines offer their own shuttle services. They will be a lot pricier, but they offer some peace of mind as your transfer effectively become part of your overall booking. These shuttles are coordinated with cruise departure and arrival times, ensuring a smooth transition from ship to shore.
Exploring Civitavecchia: Should You Stay a While?
If your flight is later in the day, why not explore Civitavecchia? With its rich history and seaside charm, it’s worth a visit. Grab a gelato, stroll along the Tyrrhenian Sea, and soak in the Italian sun. The town offers a range of attractions, from Roman baths to medieval fortresses. Plus, the local seafood is a must-try!
Better still, take a more relaxed approach to your cruise travel plans and fly in a day early and spend some time in this delightful town.
The City of Rome is too Good to Ignore: The Best Short Tours to take while in town
If you have never been to Rome and you have a cruise leaving from Civitavecchia, you really do owe it to yourself to try and extend your trip to include some time in Rome.
The City is simply outstanding. From the magnificent Coliseum to the Roman Forum, you are surrounded by ancient history and the dawn of modern civilization. Take a walk out to Circus Maximum and although it is now mostly just a field, you can picture how magnificent this stadium was and you can almost hear the roar of the Chariots as they raced around the circuit. It’s just wonderful!
Rome is also home to the Vatican City – a city within a city that is home to some of the World’s greatest treasures and artworks including Michelangelo’s incredible ceiling fresco in the Sistine Chapel.
Packing Tips for a Smooth Airport Transfer
Packing smart can make your transfer a breeze. Keep essentials in your carry-on, label your luggage with secure luggage tag holders, and consider packing a change of clothes in your hand luggage. You never know when it might come in handy! Also, keep important documents, like your passport and boarding pass, easily accessible.
Lastly don’t forget your cruise essentials!
Wrapping Up
Transferring between Civitavecchia Cruise Port and Rome’s airports may seem daunting initially, especially for first-time travelers. However, with proper planning, it becomes a straightforward process.
Transportation options range from the cost-effective train system to the luxury of private transfers, each catering to different traveler needs and preferences.
Remember whenever you are booking a cruise from a new port you have never visited before, it’s vital to be aware of the actual location of the cruise port in relation to the advertised city.
If time allows, taking a moment to explore Civitavecchia’s charms or the iconic landmarks of Rome will only enrich your Mediterranean experience.
Travel smart, pack wisely, and your journey between the cruise port and the airport can be as memorable as the cruise itself.
Alan that you for the wonderful column you have written I found it very helpful. Do you offer any information about flying from Rome to Paris? We are 2 senior citizens and was like the least expensive was to fly to Paris. Which airport and which airline. Any help would be most appreciated.
Sincerely,
Steve Mintz
[email protected]
Thank you for your very kind words Steve. I don’t have any specific flight information I can give you. However, if I was looking at this route myself I would be searching the main European budget airlines like Easyjet and Ryanair. flights.google.com is another great resource. Hope that helps!