What have the Romans ever done for us?

I often get asked what should we do in Rome when we get there? My answer to this is ‘try not to bite off more than you can see’ ‘Rome was not built in a day and you cannot expect to see everything in Rome in one day’

With ship visits, bear in mind you are a long way from Rome when the ship docks in Civitavecchia. There are a lot of choices to make;

Train excursion: The quickest way to the city and will give you more time in the Eternal City. The tour usually includes lunch and external visits to the Colosseum, Roman forum, St Peters basilica, Trevi fountain, Spanish steps, Pantheon and a very long walk through the most interesting parts of the city

Coach excursion: The traffic into Rome is tough, busy and takes almost 2 hours in total. The toilet stop on the way is a nightmare, but with a lack of toilets in the city, it is essential to visit the ones at the motorway services to ensure everyone has been before the tour begins. Most coach tours offer, a drive around Rome to see the main sights plus one main attraction. For example, Colosseum, internal visit. Or Vatican museum, internal visit. Or free time to do your own thing in the afternoon.

Go it alone taxi tour: Always specify the currency you want to pay in and what the total price will be when arranging a taxi. It is a game with the drivers to get the best customers at the highest price so be aware. Some people have been happy with this, when the driver speaks good English and it is great for four friends travelling together so they can share the cost.

Public Train: Always get your ticket validated in the machines on the platform or stairway leading to the platform. This puts the date on the ticket and stops you getting a €50 fine or higher.

There are two main stations for tourists, St Peters for the Vatican or Termini station which is the main central station for the historic Roman sights. Many people take the train in and then get the ‘hop on hop off’ bus tour. There are many bus companies to choose from and the quality differs. Use a company with a lot of buses to make the hopping off and back on time shorter, as you don’t want to get caught out and miss the ship.

Depending on where your ship docks it can be a long walk just to get to the gates of the port. Use the shuttle bus if provided. Set off early and be prepared with an idea of what you want to get out of your day.

If you have been to Rome before then maybe consider time in Civitavecchia

or a visit to Tuscania a town a short taxi drive away and full of history. I have been to Rome so many times and have visited most sites with a guide so if you are still looking for more ideas give me a call on 0333 300 2480 Have a great time ashore and remember not to miss the ship. They can and do sail without people, if they are late.