Where you can sail from Rome (Civitavecchia)

Civitavecchia is the main cruise port for Rome and a brilliant starting point for port-heavy Mediterranean routes.

• Italy highlights with easy access to Rome plus classic coastal stops.
• France and the Riviera on routes that swing west across the Med.
• Islands and beach ports depending on the sailing length and season.
• More culture, less filler with itineraries built around iconic cities.

Choose the right Rome sailing

If you want to pick fast, use this simple filter logic.

• City-heavy week: 6 nights for a tighter, port-forward route.
• More variety: 9 - 12 nights if you want extra countries and island stops.
• Best value: compare multiple dates and do not fixate on one week.
• Want help choosing: send your month, budget, and cabin preference and we will shortlist options.

Why sail from Rome

Start with an iconic city break, then sail straight into the Mediterranean without wasting days at sea.

• Easy to add 1 - 3 nights in Rome before your sailing.
• Perfect if you want history, food, and big-ticket sights before you even board.
• Civitavecchia links well to Rome by train and road.
• Great choice for first-time Mediterranean cruisers who want the classics.

Arriving the day before is the simplest way to make embarkation calm.

Rome before you sail

If you have limited time, keep it simple and do the greatest hits.

• Colosseum and the Roman Forum, then a long lunch.
• Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps for an evening wander.
• Vatican Museums if you have a full extra day.
• Trastevere for dinner if you want peak Rome atmosphere.

Even one night turns your cruise into a proper Rome and Med combo.

Short on time? Pre-book popular experiences to avoid queues and make the most of your stop.

Browse Rome tours

Which port is Civitavecchia

Civitavecchia is the main cruise port for Rome, around an hour or so from the city depending on traffic and transport.

• Your embarkation details and arrival time will show in the Virgin Voyages app.
• Arrive at your assigned Terminal Arrival Time to avoid unnecessary waiting.
• If you arrive early, aim to drop luggage (if available) then spend your time in Rome or by the waterfront.
• Inside the port, shuttles and walking routes vary by terminal, so follow the day-of signage.

Getting to the port

Most travellers choose the simplest option on embarkation day, especially with luggage.

• From Rome: train and taxi combinations are common and straightforward.
• From Fiumicino (FCO): allow extra time, especially in summer and weekends.
• From hotels: a pre-arranged transfer can be easiest if you want door-to-port simplicity.
• Best tip: stay in Rome the night before and travel to the port on the morning of embarkation.

Need a reliable transfer? We recommend pre-booking with trusted drivers for peace of mind.

Book transfer

Where to stay in Rome

Pick an area that matches your style, then keep port morning easy.

• Centro Storico: walkable classics and the most “Rome” feeling.
• Trastevere: lively evenings and great food.
• Monti: boutique vibe and close to the Colosseum area.
• Termini area: practical for trains, best if you are travelling early to the port.

Staying overnight? Choose a hotel near Civitavecchia for a smooth embarkation day.

View Rome hotels

First-timer tips

If this is your first Virgin sailing, these tips save you time and stress.

• Use the Virgin Voyages app for check-in, dining, and Shore Things.
• Book dining as soon as it opens for your sailing, especially for the popular spots.
• Bring a small day bag for embarkation day essentials.
• New to Virgin Voyages? Tell us your dates and budget and we will help you get the best value from the current offers.