Private car transfer
from Rome to Civitavecchia

As hilltop tops move to your right, sneak peeks of the glimmering Tyrrhenian Sea appear in the distance. Slowly but surely, a wave of salty air tingles your lips, marking when to look for the dominant Fort Michelangelo overlooking the picturesque port and signaling the end of this Italian road trip. But before immersing in the authentic La Dolce Vita lifestyle, you must uncover how to travel from Rome to Civitavecchia in our extensive guide below!

History of Civitavecchia

The Etruscan tribe came to Italy around the fifth century BC, settling in Lazio, Umbria, and southern Tuscany. But after Rome's rise to power, the empire seized control of the land, and Emperor Trajan ordered the construction of a port here in 106 AD.

Civitavecchia, then known as Centumcellae, flourished with trade in spices, silk, wines, and gems across Europe and the Arabic world. However, the Roman Empire collapsed in 476 AD, and soon after, the Byzantine Empire annexed this sought-after strip of land.

Civitavecchia was one of the world's most crucial maritime hubs by the Renaissance period. But just a few centuries later, the town was almost destroyed. Allied forces bombed 75% of the city due to its importance for shipping military supplies. Fortunately, the locals restored the urban space close to its medieval past.

Modern Civitavecchia

Today, Civitavecchia is a traditional Italian city with pastel-colored baroque buildings and uneven cobblestone paths. Authentic cafes line the old town, where locals gather morning, noon, and night to relax with an intense espresso or a refreshing Aperol spritz and antipasti platter. The slower-paced life combined with the lack of tourist groups gives an in-depth insight into Italian ways of life.

But even today, the port is the heart and soul of Civitavecchia. The city welcomes almost 3 million annual visitors through its gates via cruise ships. The balmy sea breeze and stylish palm streets spanning the pier instantly put travelers in the vacation spirit. City officials go above and beyond to help preserve the area by focusing on sustainable practices, such as lowering port movement emissions and promoting eco-friendly tourist activities.

• Language: Italian
• Current: Euro (EUR)
• Climate: hot Mediterranean
• Time zone: GMT+1
• Plug types: C, F, and L
• Fun fact: Donato Bramante built Fort Michelangelo to fend off pirates!

But don't just eat on your mode of transportation; enjoy your delicious food with a view. Although there are endless scenic spots en route, there's no better place than lying on the beach while admiring the majestic Santa Severa Castle!

Do your homework

Most tourists visiting Civitavecchia come via cruise ship and spend just a few hours in town. Thus, it remains off the beaten tourist map.

You must dig beneath the surface to uncover the town's secrets. The best way to do so is by talking with a resident, like a Daytrip driver with passionate and extensive local knowledge. If you're traveling by public transport, find a trustworthy guidebook so you know the best spots in town and where to avoid!

Bring the essentials

Lazio is one of Italy's sunniest regions, receiving over 2,500 hours of annual sunshine. Therefore, you should pack a light bag with essentials to combat the elements.

Sunscreen, sunhats, and sunglasses are also essential, even when traveling in the winter, due to Civitavecchia's year-round sun. Also, remember to pack a reusable water bottle. Italy has endless fountains in towns and cities where you can fill your container and contribute to sustainable travel!

Trains leave from Roma Aurelia and Roma Termini and arrive at Civitavecchia Station. So, double-check your departure station on the day of travel. Regular services are longer and cheaper, while Frecciarossa trains are more expensive but take under an hour to complete.

• Cheapest/average train price: $5-$17
• Fastest/average train duration: 38 minutes; 1 hour, 18 minutes
• First/last train departure times: 12:17 AM-11:42 PM

Shuttle bus from Rome to Civitavecchia

Although not the cheapest travel method, the shuttle bus from Rome to Civitavecchia is also cost-effective. Some travelers opt for this when traveling as a group or as a family.

SIT Shuttle Bus is the primary operator on this line, but you can also purchase tickets through the budget bus firm Flixbus. With only one departure per day from Rome Piazza Indipendenza, it's best to book tickets well in advance.

• Cheapest/average shuttle bus price: $16-$17.50
• Average shuttle bus duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
• Shuttle bus departure time: 3:30 PM

Daytrip from Rome to Civitavecchia

Look no further than Daytrip if you want a comfortable, convenient, or adventurous drive from Rome to Civitavecchia. Our private door-to-door service will make you feel like world-renowned Italian explorer Marco Polo but without the headaches of discomfiting travel methods.

You hardly need to lift a finger once you decide where and when you want your driver to collect you. They'll manage your bags and whisk you through the free-flowing hills of the Italian countryside before arriving at your new hotel.

But who knows if you'll be fortunate enough to visit this historic region in the future? Luckily, our optional sightseeing packages allow you to explore some of the hidden wonders you may never have heard of en route. If you enjoyed Roman ruins but would appreciate fewer crowds, stop to admire Ancient Ostia. Or, if you prefer to raise the hairs on your neck, uncover the Necropolis de la Banditaccia's eerie walkways that look like something out of an Indiana Jones movie!

• Seats from: $51
• English-speaking driver
• Private, sanitized, smoke-free car
• Equipped for kids, pets, groups, or those with limited mobility
• 24/7 customer support
• Free cancellation 24 hours before departure!

Located on a hill, the Terme Taurine provides a glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Romans and their advanced engineering skills. The serene backdrop and historical significance make it a fascinating place to visit, whether you're a history buff or not!

Ascend Fort Michelangelo

Built in the 16th century to defend against pirate attacks, Fort Michelangelo is now a must-see landmark for newcomers to town. From the gardens encircling the structure, you can feel the significance of its past with its towering walls and colossal turrets.

The best part of this attraction is that it won't cost you a penny. On the weekends, you can roam the courtyards and take in breathtaking vistas overlooking the port and the Mediterranean Sea.

Eat through Civitavecchia Market

If you want to experience the cultures and ways of life in a European city, head for a local market. At Civitavecchia Market, you can blend in with the locals by sampling some of the best products around Rome. But it's also a flea market, where you can purchase vintage clothes or handcrafted goods and take home a distinguishable travel memory.

If the vibrant energy doesn't suck you in, you can find the stalls at Piazza Regina Margherita. It's open 6:30 AM-1 PM, Monday to Saturday, so remember to set an alarm!

Roam Promenade Civitavecchia

The Promenade Civitavecchia is the ideal spot to take a break from reality and unwind in the vacation spirit. The fresh, salty air flowing in from the baby blue, glimmering waters and the scenery stretching from the old town to the horizon will make you never want to leave.

If you're traveling as a family, you'll be glad to know there's a Ferris wheel en route. But beware; it can swing from side to side once at the summit! Afterward, you can reward yourself with a glass of local wine in one of the bars and restaurants lining the path.

With fewer tourists, you can roam freely on the narrow streets without encountering bottlenecks. But it also means you'll travel more sustainably. By supporting businesses, they won't rely on revenue from late June to early September. In return, it helps decrease prices for locals living here throughout the year, combating overtourism!