A Guide To Rome As You Have Never Seen It

Rome is one of the most popular ports of call on a Mediterranean Cruise.  I have been to Rome twice on cruises and both times have done things completely differently and there is still so much I want to see.

Rome itself is around 55 minutes from the port of Civitavecchia where the cruise ships dock.  If you are looking for culture then this is a must see place.

Handy Tip – If you do not want to do an escorted tour through the cruise line but want to explore Rome by yourself book yourself on a “Rome On Your Own” excursion.  I did this last time I was there and the cruise line provided a coach to and from the city so I as not worrying about missing the ship.

There are plenty of “must see” sights in this beautiful city but there are also many places of interest that are not so publicised.  Here are a few of my personal “must do’s” away from the main tourist attractions i.e “The Real Rome”

Take a stroll down Via Margutta which is the artists’ hub of Rome and is lined with galleries and studios.  From here you can head in to the medieval backstreets of the Trastevere with its unique atmosphere

Fancy something a bit more gruesome?  Then visit The Museum Of Purgatory where you will find the Capuchin Crypt lined with bones of 4,000 friars.  You can also head underground to the Rome catacombs which is a collection of forty burial chambers.  Think of the London Dungeon only spookier!

Rome is famous for its fashion designers and luxury Italian leather goods so if you have the energy and the cash to splash head to the Via Condotti, Via Frattina and Via Borgognona where you will find the big name designers like Armani, Prada, Valentino and more

No visit to Rome would be complete without popping in to see the Pope!  On a Wednesday head over to St Peter’s Square to experience the glory of His Holiness.  The Vatican City where the Pope resides is in fact its own country..although you do not need your passport to gain entry!

I hope you have enjoyed reading all about some of the many things to do in Rome when you visit on a cruise.  Of course do not forget to throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain so you are guaranteed another trip to Italy!

If you have any stories to share or handy hints and tips for Rome please comment below with your thoughts on this city as I would love to hear what other people think of this city.

Until next time…Happy Cruising!