Colosseum Rome

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They say that “All Roads Lead To Rome” but does this hold true for the waterways of Europe? With a cruise holiday, the gateway point to Rome is the Port of Civitavecchia. This port serves as an embarkation point or port of call for several cruise lines sailing in the Mediterranean.

Civitavecchia is not within walking distance to the ancient city. Most cruise lines offer pre-paid shore excursions into Rome for some sightseeing. Nonetheless, there’s a cost efficient way for the traveller to sightsee at their own pace in the Eternal City.

Cruise ships in port usually provide shuttles to and from the port’s pedestrian entrance. From this main entrance, head directly to the train station in less than a 10 minute walk.

FROM THE CRUISE TERMINAL TO ROME CENTER TAKES ABOUT 1 HOUR.

Trains from Civitavecchia to Rome run approximately every 30 minutes and the journey time varies; normally it takes about one hour. The sagas of ancient history are immediately visible in the centre of Rome when stepping out of Termini Station.

Only two blocks from the station sits the 2000 year old Colosseum. Stumble upon more evidence of the Roman Empire within walking distance of the Domus Aurea (Nero’s complex known as the ‘golden house’), the ancient Roman chariot racing stadium of Circus Maximus and the Arch of Constantines.

With so many other landmarks, monuments, museums and pop culture highlights spread out, it is impossible to see everything by foot. Make the most of the day and obtain a total sampling of this “Roman Holiday” by utilising the city’s hop-on hop-off bus. Take advantage of all that Rome has to offer in just one outing.

The Roman Forum was once the centre of ancient Rome. It offers an extensive throng of ruins, temples, a senate house and palaces dating back to 44 BC.

Climb the Spanish Steps up to Trinità dei Monti, and stop off for cappuccino and visit the nearby bocca della verità (mouth of truth).

Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, the pop culture icon of “Caput Mundi” (Latin for the capital of the world). It appeals to romantics due to the cinematic classics such as “Three Coins in the Fountain” (1954) and “La Dolce Vita” (1960) featuring it in a scene or two. More recently, the fountain appeared in Woody Allen’s 2012 film, “To Rome With Love”.

No trip to Rome would be complete without calling on Vatican City. Visit St Peter’s Basilica, considered the most important Catholic temple in the world. Stand in the Piazza San Pietro, view Michelangelo’s Pieta, and Bernini’s Baladacchino with its Baroque columns and gold ornamentation. End the visit with a climb to the top of the dome for stunning vistas of the entire city of Rome.

After you’ve experienced everything on a day trip to Rome, head back to Civitavecchia, and board the ship for another evening of fine dining and entertainment. Just remember that another adventure awaits all guests in their luxury floating hotel provided only with a cruise holiday.