Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, needs no introduction. One of the most iconic cities in the world, it is a destination unto itself. According to mythology, the city was founded in 753 BC along the shores of the Tiber.

The city is serviced by one cruise port, the port of Civitavecchia, which is located 45 minutes by road north of Rome. Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world and with its extensive historical sites, amazing local cuisine and world class museums, one visit to the city is just not enough!

Most main international hotels are located in the centre of the city and are within easy walking distance of most attractions. Whether it is sitting on the Spanish Steps enjoying a gelato, getting that photo in front of the Trevi Fountain or hearing the stories of emperor’s past in the Pantheon, you can experience life-long memories during your stay.

The majority of top attractions in the city are located between Stazione Termini, the cities main transport hub in the east and the Vatican in the west. For the history lovers, Rome offers up historical sites dotted throughout the city and you can’t walk too far without coming across a site of significance. From the Colosseum to the Pantheon, The Spanish Steps to the Trevi Fountain and the Forum, the city offers up stories and events spanning millennia. Once the centre of ancient Roman life, The Forum is one of the largest and most important areas of the city. The area was a multi-purpose site that accommodated elections, public speeches, criminal trials, public meetings and religious ceremonies. You can walk in the steps of such famous figures as Julius Caesar and Marc Antony who would have frequented the Forum during their political lives.

One of the city’s most famous sites is the Colosseum, located just east of the Forum. It is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, and is still the largest standing amphitheatre in the world today which was used in ancient times for gladiatorial contests.

The Pantheon is an ancient Roman temple and one of the best-preserved monuments from ancient Rome, as well as being the biggest brick dome ever built. The awe-inspiring dome is best viewed from the inside standing in the huge rotunda looking up at this marvel of design and engineering. The Vatican, a self-governed city-state is located within Rome itself and is at the top of most travellers must visit sites in the city. The spiritual centre for some 1.2 billion people and home to the Pope, the Vatican is a spiritual, historic and artistic destination with some of history’s greatest artists having worked on various projects within its walls. From Michelangelo’s famous frescos in the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s frescos in the Apostolic Palace and St Paul’s Basilica designed by Bernini, you can view some of the world’s most priceless artworks and designs within the walls of the Vatican.

When it comes to food, Rome is a foodie’s paradise with the numerous restaurants around the city offering classical Italian fare from pizzas to all sorts of pastas. Some of the best restaurants and eateries are located in the districts of Testaccio, Centro Storico and the Jewish Ghetto.

The one thing you won’t have on a trip to Rome is an empty stomach! After your meal, you can sample some world famous gelato at one of the local gelato bars dotted throughout the city.

Whether it is history, food or just a relaxing few days pre or post-cruise, Rome offers something for every traveller and is a city not to be missed.