INTRODUCTION
The Eternal City of Rome is often spoken of as one of the world’s finest capital cities – and with good reason. Its long, incredible history dates back to 753BC and a glance across its amazing cityscape reveals bountiful treasures just begging to be explored.
Yet a visit to Rome offers more than a chance to do some sightseeing – it is an opportunity to live that famous Roman saying: ‘La Dolce Vita’.
PORT VIEW
Civitavecchia has been the port of Rome since A.D. 108, during Emperor Trajan’s reign. There are plenty options to make the journey from Civitavecchia to Rome.
Most cruise passengers will choose to take a paid excursion with their cruise line, who will provide transport into the city as part of the cost. However, public transport is also available, with a bus journey taking approximately 60-80 minutes, or the train for a reasonable €5 one-way.
Be warned though, the walk from the port to the station could take around 30 minutes.
NEED TO KNOW
Public transport is pretty extensive in Rome, with a metro system, buses, trams, and overground railways available.
The Via del Corso is the place to go for shopping, although those looking for something a little different will enjoy Via del Boschetto, a quirky street filled with independent boutiques, craft shops and little cafes.
Don’t order a milky coffee after noon. Cappuccinos and the like are considered breakfast beverages and it is regarded as odd to drink them in the afternoon. Stick to a traditional espresso instead.
WHAT WE LOVE
Colosseum: It doesn’t feel possible that a structure as advanced and impressive as the Colosseum could date back to 70AD – but it does. Once the arena of gladiators and performers, its bloody past lingers in the air, but it’s the well-preserved architecture that really takes the breath away. Make sure to visit with a guide (either through an excursion or your own booking) to really bring the history to life and, more importantly, to help skip the queues.
Trevi Fountain: Throw a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand into the Trevi Fountain and one day you’ll return to Rome. It’s a simple tradition but one that draws tourists to this baroque treasure (gleaming white galloping horses and powerful Gods abound) every year – and raises €1.5 million a year for a local catholic charity.
Vatican City: The world’s smallest country is found in the heart of Rome and has been the seat of the Papacy since 1377. It is here that guests can see the Sistine Chapel – home to Michelangelo’s iconic painted ceiling – and take a tour of the Vatican Museums, which include works from the likes of Caravaggio, Raphael and Leonardo da Vinci.
Capitoline Museums: Dating from 1471, these museums are considered the world’s oldest public museums, and include world-famous collections of classical sculpture, including the Capitoline Wolf. Guests can find the sculptural collection on the first floor, while the Pinacoteca (picture gallery), which is one floor up, displays works from the 16th and 17th centuries.
SELLING TIPS