A coastal town with a rich Etruscan past, home to the 16th-century Forte Michelangelo. It serves as Rome's main seaport and a popular cruise ship stop.
Civitavecchia, a coastal city 60 km northwest of Rome, is the main cruise and ferry port for Italy's capital. While many travelers pass through en route to other destinations, Civitavecchia itself is worth exploring. You can visit the massive 16th-century Forte Michelangelo, see the ruins of ancient Roman baths, stroll along the palm-lined waterfront promenade, and eat fresh seafood at local restaurants. The city has been a strategic port for over two millennia.
Exploring Forte Michelangelo
At the heart of Civitavecchia's waterfront stands Forte Michelangelo, a 16th-century fortress commissioned by Pope Julius II. The fort's most distinctive feature is its octagonal tower, partially designed by Michelangelo himself. You can walk around the fortress's exterior to examine its thick walls and four corner bastions. While the interior is not always open to the public, the fort dominates the harbor area and reminds visitors of the city's past military significance.
Ancient Roman Heritage at Terme Taurine
Just north of the city center, you'll find the Terme Taurine, also known as Trajan's Baths. These well-preserved Roman baths date back to the 2nd century AD and give insight into ancient Roman bathing customs. As you explore the site, you'll see remnants of hot and cold pools, massage rooms, and detailed floor mosaics. The baths' location on a hill also provides wide views of the surrounding countryside.
Walking Along the Waterfront
Civitavecchia's waterfront promenade extends for several kilometers, offering views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The palm-lined path passes by beaches, cafes, and the city's busy port. Along the way, you'll see the Vanvitelli Fountain, a Baroque water feature designed in the 18th century. In the evenings, the promenade fills with locals taking their traditional passeggiata (evening stroll).
Tasting Local Seafood
As a port city, Civitavecchia's restaurants serve a variety of fresh seafood dishes. You'll find local specialties like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and frittura di paranza (mixed fried fish). For a look at the local fishing industry, head to the San Lorenzo Market in the morning to see fishmongers selling the day's catch. Many local restaurants source their ingredients directly from this market.
Getting to and from Civitavecchia
Civitavecchia is well-connected to Rome and other Italian cities. Trains run regularly between Rome's Termini station and Civitavecchia, with the journey taking about an hour. If you're arriving by cruise ship, the port is within walking distance of the city center, though shuttle buses are often available. For those flying into Rome, both Fiumicino and Ciampino airports offer transport options to Civitavecchia, including trains, buses, and private transfers.
