Civitavecchia Ferries

The port of Civitavecchia plays a key role in the ferry network of Italy, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 4 ferry routes operated by 3 ferry companies, Civitavecchia serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Civitavecchia, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Olbia - Civitavecchia, Barcelona - Civitavecchia connecting Civitavecchia with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Tirrenia, Grimaldi Lines, Grandi Navi Veloci run regular services from Civitavecchia, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Civitavecchia offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Civitavecchia is well-connected to Rome, with regular trains departing from Roma Termini station and arriving at the port in approximately 60-80 minutes. Travelers driving from Rome can reach the port via the A12 motorway in about an hour, while those arriving at Fiumicino Airport can take a direct shuttle bus service that operates in conjunction with ferry departures. The port offers both short and long-term parking facilities, though booking in advance is recommended during summer months. Local shuttle buses connect the train station to various points within the port, making transfers convenient regardless of how you arrive.

Perched on the Tyrrhenian coast, Civitavecchia serves as the maritime doorway to the Eternal City of Rome. This bustling port town blends its rich naval history with modern ferry infrastructure, making it a crucial hub for Mediterranean sea travel. Visitors passing through can enjoy the town's own charms, from historic fortifications to fresh seafood, before setting sail to diverse Mediterranean destinations.

The Mediterranean climate makes Civitavecchia pleasant for much of the year, with late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offering the perfect balance of warm weather and fewer crowds. Summer months (July-August) bring hot temperatures and the highest volume of ferry travelers, though the sea breeze provides welcome relief from the heat. Winter remains mild with temperatures rarely dropping below 8°C (46°F), making year-round ferry travel viable, albeit with reduced schedules. The town comes alive during the Festa di Santa Fermina in April, honoring the patron saint of the city with processions and celebrations.

Civitavecchia serves as an excellent jumping-off point for numerous Mediterranean adventures. Sardinia is accessible via a 7-8 hour ferry journey, rewarding travelers with stunning beaches and unique cultural traditions. Barcelona can be reached on overnight ferries, offering an interesting sea route between Italy and Spain. The French island of Corsica lies just 4-5 hours away, with its dramatic landscapes and distinctive Franco-Italian heritage. Several Sicilian ports are also serviced from Civitavecchia, making it possible to experience multiple Italian islands in one journey through some of the Mediterranean's most scenic waters.

While often considered a transit point, Civitavecchia offers several worthwhile attractions for travelers with time before their ferry departure. The imposing Forte Michelangelo, designed by Bramante and completed by Michelangelo, stands as a testament to the town's strategic importance. The Archaeological Museum houses impressive Etruscan artifacts that illuminate the region's ancient past. For culinary adventures, the local fish market supplies the town's restaurants with fresh catches - try the cacciucco fish stew or spaghetti alle vongole at eateries along the marina. The waterfront promenade makes for a pleasant stroll, with views of luxury cruise ships and working fishing boats sharing the harbor.

The name Civitavecchia translates to 'ancient town,' though ironically it was considered the 'new city' when Emperor Trajan established it as a port in the 2nd century AD. The port features an unusual ancient Roman lighthouse that has been continuously operational in some form for nearly 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest working maritime structures in the world. Despite heavy bombing during World War II that destroyed much of the city, the historic port managed to rebuild while preserving elements of its ancient harbor design. The waters off Civitavecchia contain several underwater archaeological sites, including sunken Roman ships that occasionally yield new artifacts.