Rome cruise port excursions

Welcome aboard this Rome cruise port excursions

I’m Sarah, a travel addict and cruise lover just like you. In this guide, I’ll share my insider tips, smart hacks, and favorite spots to make your Rome shore excursion unforgettable stress free and without the fear of missing your ship back in Civitavecchia.

Ultimate guide to make the most of your day

Already booked your transportation? → Stay here and check out my must-see attractions.
Still not sure how to get to Rome? → Read my dedicated guide on [how to get from Civitavecchia port to Rome] for the easiest options.

What to do in Rome on a cruise stop?

When you land in Rome for a cruise stop, the big question is always the same: what should I see first without rushing everywhere? Here you’ll find my favorite tips and highlights so you can enjoy the Eternal City at your own pace.

Top sights & smart tips

Rome is a feast for the eyes, with history and beauty around every corner. But let’s be honest seeing the top attractions can get pricey. The Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums… these iconic landmarks can add up fast, especially for families or small groups.

💡 Good news: on MonTataneTour, I always share practical solutions with our trusted partners: skip-the-line tickets, small group guided tours, and money-saving combos. You’ll save time, cut costs, and enjoy your day in Rome without the stress of rushing.

On a budget? Don’t worry! Rome is also full of amazing free things to do beautiful piazzas, historic fountains, and breathtaking views. Keep reading to discover my best budget-friendly tips and enjoy the Eternal City without overspending.

The Coliseum

Rome cruise port excursions

No Rome cruise stop is complete without visiting the Colosseum, the eternal symbol of the Roman Empire’s greatness. Built in the 1st century AD, this massive amphitheater once held nearly 50,000 spectators who came to watch gladiator battles, public shows, and historical reenactments.

As you approach its towering arches, you’ll immediately feel the weight of history. Inside, the seating areas and underground tunnels still showcase the brilliance of Roman engineering animal cages, trap doors, and stage mechanisms that were remarkably advanced for their time. This unique landmark immerses every visitor in the fascinating atmosphere of ancient Rome.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Colosseum is now one of the most visited monuments in the world. Its majestic silhouette, especially at sunset, offers an unforgettable image of the Eternal City. For cruise travelers with limited time, it’s truly an unmissable highlight.

Practical information

Getting there. The Colosseum is located in the heart of Rome, right at Colosseo Metro Station (Line B). From Termini Station, it’s just 2 stops away.
Opening hours. Open daily from 9 AM to around 7 PM (last entry 1 hour before closing). Closed on December 25 and January 1.
Tickets. Combined entry ticket for Colosseum + Roman Forum + Palatine Hill: $32. Book online in advance to skip the long lines.

Ticket – Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

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Explore three of Rome’s most important sites with a timed-entry ticket to the Colosseum and an audio guide. Walk through the Palatine and the Forum at your own pace, or choose an optional upgrade for arena access.

Price per person →$32

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Circus Maximus

Rome cruise port excursions

Located between the Aventine Hill and the Palatine Hill, the Circus Maximus is one of the oldest and largest chariot-racing stadiums of ancient Rome. Stretching over 600 meters in length, it could host up to 250,000 spectators who gathered to watch thrilling chariot races one of the Romans’ favorite forms of entertainment.

Today, the grand stands and monumental columns are gone, but the sheer size of the site is still impressive. Walking across this vast open space, it’s easy to imagine the roar of the crowd, the clash of wheels, and the excitement of the legendary races that once brought the city to life.

The Circus Maximus is also a vibrant venue today, often used for concerts and cultural events. For cruise passengers who want to combine a historic stroll with a relaxing moment, this is a great stop especially at sunset when you get a beautiful view of the Palatine Hill.

Practical information

Getting there. Metro stop: Circo Massimo (Line B), about a 10-minute walk from the Colosseum.
Hours. Open-air site, accessible all day.
Tickets. Free entry. Paid guided tours are sometimes available.

The pantheon

Rome cruise port excursions

A true masterpiece of ancient architecture, the Pantheon is one of the best-preserved monuments of Imperial Rome. Originally built in the 1st century BC and later rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, it was dedicated to all Roman gods. Today, it serves as a Christian church, which explains its remarkable preservation over the centuries.

Its massive dome, with a central oculus open to the sky, remains an unmatched engineering feat of its time. Inside, natural light pours through the opening, moving across the interior throughout the day and creating a mystical atmosphere. The Pantheon also houses the tombs of notable figures, including the painter Raphael and King Victor Emmanuel II.

For cruise passengers, the Pantheon is an ideal stop: located in the heart of the historic center, it can be visited quickly and easily fits into a walking route that includes Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain. It’s a must-see to experience the grandeur of both ancient and medieval Rome.

Practical information

Getting there. Located on Piazza della Rotonda, just a few minutes’ walk from Piazza Navona. Easily accessible by bus or taxi.
Hours. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (last entry at 6:45 p.m.). Closed on December 25 and January 1.
Tickets. Since July 2023, entry costs €5 per adult. Free for visitors under 18.

Hop-On Hop-Off bus

Rome cruise port excursions

For those looking to explore Rome quickly and without getting tired, the hop-on hop-off bus is an excellent choice. These multi-stop tours allow you to see the city’s main attractions in just a few hours, with the flexibility to get on and off as you please to explore each neighborhood at your own pace.

Perfect for cruise passengers with limited time, the tourist bus provides a comprehensive overview of Rome, from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, including the Vatican and Piazza Navona. Audio commentary is available in multiple languages, offering fascinating historical and cultural insights.

Practical information

Access: Departures from several central locations in Rome, often near the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia, or the Vatican.
Hours: Tours run daily, typically from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tickets: Adult fare: $23 for a full day. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site and are valid for 24 hours for unlimited hop-on, hop-off access.

Ticket – Panoramic Hop-On Hop-Off Bus 3 Routes x 1

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Enjoy a hop-on hop-off bus tour across Rome’s highlights. Choose from 16 audio guide languages to learn more about the landmarks and enjoy unlimited access to 3 routes with a single ticket.

Price per person → $23

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

The Vatican

Rome cruise port excursions

The Vatican, the world’s smallest independent state, is a must-visit destination for anyone stopping in Rome. As the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church, it draws millions of pilgrims and tourists each year, eager to admire its monumental basilica, world-class museums, and of course, the famous Sistine Chapel.

Arriving at St. Peter’s Square, you’ll be awed by Bernini’s majestic architecture, with its grand colonnade embracing the crowds. Inside St. Peter’s Basilica, the artistic treasures are countless: Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s altar, and the spectacular view from the dome overlooking the entire city.

For cruise passengers with limited time, it’s best to choose either a quick visit to the basilica and square or a skip-the-line ticket for the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Either way, the Vatican offers an unforgettable and unique experience during a Rome port stop.

Practical information

Getting there. Metro: Ottaviano-San Pietro station (Line A). Everything is within walking distance from St. Peter’s Square. Buses and taxis are also available.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Hours. Open Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.). Closed on Sundays, except the last Sunday of each month when entry is free.

Borghese Gallery

Rome cruise port excursions

The Borghese Gallery is a true artistic gem nestled in the heart of the Villa Borghese Gardens. This museum houses one of Rome’s most exquisite art collections, featuring masterpieces by Italian masters such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.

Upon entering the gallery, you’ll be immediately captivated by the richness of the sculptures and paintings, as well as the elegant arrangement of the rooms that highlights each work of art. The collection reflects the refined taste of Roman aristocrats and showcases the city’s history through the centuries.

It’s the perfect stop if you want to combine art, history, and a stroll through the beautiful gardens.

Practical information

Access: Metro: Spagna or Flaminio stations, then a 10–15 minute walk through the Villa Borghese Gardens.
Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (last entry at 5 p.m.).
Tickets: Paid entry; online booking strongly recommended. Adult tickets: $47

Ticket – Borghese Gallery

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Skip the lines and enjoy priority entry to the Borghese Gallery in the heart of Rome. Admire masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini at your own pace, or upgrade to include a guided tour.

Price per person → $47

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Castel Sant’Angelo

Rome cruise port excursions

The Castel Sant’Angelo, originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum and later transformed into a fortress and papal residence, is one of Rome’s most fascinating landmarks. Located along the Tiber River, it offers stunning views of the city and the Vatican.

Visiting Castel Sant’Angelo, you’ll explore its many roles over the centuries: prison, fortress, museum, and papal passageway via the famous Passetto di Borgo. Inside, you’ll find ancient weaponry, frescoes, and historic halls, while the castle’s rooftop terrace offers exceptional panoramic views.

Practical Information

Access: Located along the Tiber, just a 10-minute walk from the Vatican. Nearby bus stops: Borgo Sant’Angelo and Via Crescenzio.
Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (last entry at 6:30 p.m.).
Tickets: Adult entry: $23. Skip-the-line tickets recommended to save time.
Tip: Don’t miss the terrace for a 360° view of Rome and the Tiber River.

Ticket – Castel Sant’Angelo Entry

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Save time during your stay in Rome with this Castel Sant’Angelo entry ticket, the mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the rooftop and upgrade to include an audio guide for a more enriching experience.

Price per person → $23

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

The Sistine Chapel

Rome cruise port excursions

The Sistine Chapel is one of the Vatican’s crown jewels and a must-see for any Rome cruise stop. Famous worldwide for Michelangelo’s frescoes, including the iconic Last Judgment and the Creation of Adam, it delivers an unforgettable artistic and spiritual experience.

Upon entering the chapel, visitors are struck by the sheer scale and richness of the frescoes covering the ceilings and walls. Every detail tells a biblical story and showcases the genius of Renaissance art. The chapel remains an active place of worship, including hosting papal conclaves.

Practical information

Getting there: Metro: Ottaviano-San Pietro station (Line A). Everything is within walking distance from St. Peter’s Square. Buses and taxis are also available.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Hours: Open Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.). Closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of the month when entry is free.

Ticket – Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 9,142 reviews

Enter the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel with a skip-the-line ticket. Admire artworks in the Belvedere Courtyard, the Gallery of Maps, and other sections created by famous artists such as Michelangelo, among many others.

Price per person → $57

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

St. Peter’s Basilica

Rome cruise port excursions

St. Peter’s Basilica is the spiritual heart of the Vatican and one of the largest churches in the world. With its majestic dome designed by Michelangelo, it impresses visitors with both its architecture and its artistic treasures, including sculptures, mosaics, and the tombs of famous popes.

Upon entering the basilica, you’ll be struck by the grandeur of the nave and the richness of the decorations. Highlights include Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s altar, and the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. For cruise passengers, it’s a must-see stop to understand the history and religious art of Rome.

To make the most of your time, it’s recommended to book a skip-the-line ticket or join a guided tour, allowing you to see the main highlights quickly while avoiding long queues.

Practical information

Access: Main entrance at St. Peter’s Square, within walking distance from the Vatican or via Ottaviano Metro Station (Line A).
Hours: Open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (until 6 p.m. from October to March).
Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy panoramic views from the dome.

Ticket – St. Peter’s Basilica & Dome with Audio Guide Tour

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Explore the beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica Dome with an audio guide tour, offering breathtaking views over Rome. Admire the gilded ceilings, marble artworks, and Michelangelo’s Pietà while learning the fascinating history behind them.

Price per person → $35

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Free activities in Rome

Rome cruise port excursions

If you add up the cost of your cruise, onboard expenses, and all the shore excursions, Rome can quickly become a pricey stop. The good news? The Eternal City is full of beautiful, free activities that let you soak in its charm without spending a dime.

Stroll through picturesque streets, admire Baroque churches, be surprised by bustling piazzas, and marvel at iconic fountains. Even on a short cruise stop, these experiences offer a true taste of Rome, combining culture, history, and the city’s unique atmosphere all accessible to everyone.

Trevi Fountain

Rome cruise port excursions

The Trevi Fountain is arguably one of Rome’s most famous landmarks and a must-see during any cruise stop. This stunning Baroque fountain draws visitors from all over the world with its monumental sculptures and crystal-clear water flowing into the basin.

One of the most popular traditions is tossing a coin over your shoulder into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome someday. Beyond the legend, Trevi Fountain impresses with its intricate carvings and the richness of its decor a true masterpiece of Italian Baroque art.

It’s easily accessible from many central points in Rome and can be combined with a quick walk between the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Piazza di Spagna. A perfect stop to soak up the energy of the historic center.

Practical information

Access: Located in the historic center, near Barberini metro station and several bus lines.
Hours: Open all day. Best visited early in the morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
Tickets: Free entry.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most iconic squares, famous for its lively atmosphere and Baroque masterpieces. With Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers at its center and churches and palaces surrounding it, it’s an ideal spot to stroll, watch everyday Roman life, and enjoy a café terrace.

Piazza Navona is a key stop between the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. Street performers, musicians, and temporary markets add a friendly, authentic touch to your visit.

It’s also a great place for a coffee break or gelato while admiring the sculptures and surrounding architecture.

Practical information

Access: In the historic center, easily reachable on foot from the Pantheon or Trevi Fountain, and served by multiple bus lines.
Hours: Open all day. Best time to experience the atmosphere is late morning or late afternoon.
Tickets: Free entry.

Trastevere neighborhood

The Trastevere neighborhood is one of Rome’s most charming and authentic areas. With its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and lively squares, it offers a real taste of traditional Roman life, away from the busy tourist center.

For cruise visitors, Trastevere is perfect for an evening stroll after seeing the main sights. The area is packed with typical trattorias, cozy cafés, and small artisan shops.

Practical information

Access: Located on the west bank of the Tiber, easily reachable on foot from the historic center or by tram/bus (line 8).
Hours: Lively all day, especially in the evening with restaurants and bars.
Tickets: Free to wander the streets. Paid guided tours or museums may apply.

Magnificent Churches

Rome is full of magnificent churches that are free to enter, offering incredible art and history. Even if your cruise stop is short on time, these sites provide a unique glimpse into the cultural and spiritual richness of the Eternal City.

Among the must-see churches are Santa Maria in Trastevere, known for its dazzling medieval mosaics, and San Luigi dei Francesi, famous for Caravaggio’s masterpieces. Each church tells its own story and lets you explore Baroque, Renaissance, or medieval art all without spending a dime.

Practical information

Access: Most churches are located in the historic center and are easily reached on foot or by public transport.
Hours: Typically open daily from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., though hours can vary, especially during religious celebrations.
Tickets: Free entry. Some churches may accept a donation for maintenance.
Tip: Respect the quiet and dress code (shoulders and knees covered). Take your time to admire the art without the crowds of major tourist sites.

Best activities

Visit Rome in 1 day

To discover Rome’s must-see sites, from historical tours to unique experiences, explore the list of activities below to get inspired and easily book your tickets.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 500+ activities

Few words in italian

Learning a few basic Italian words before your Rome stop will help you communicate better with locals and add an authentic touch to your trip.

Here are some useful phrases to get you started:

Greetings

Hello. Buongiorno (pronounced: bwohn-JOR-no)
Hi / Bye (informal). Ciao (pronounced: chow)
Good evening. Buonasera (pronounced: bwo-na-SEH-ra)
Goodbye. Arrivederci (pronounced: ah-ree-veh-DER-chee)
See you soon. A presto (pronounced: ah PREH-sto)

Politeness

Please. Per favore (pronounced: pehr fa-VO-reh)
Thank you. Grazie (pronounced: GRAHT-see-eh)
You’re welcome. Prego (pronounced: PREH-go)
Excuse me. Mi scusi (pronounced: mee SKOO-zee)
Sorry / Pardon. Scusi (pronounced: SKOO-zee)

Questions

Can you help me? Mi può aiutare? (pronounced: mee pwo ah-yoo-TA-reh)
Where is…? Dove si trova…? (pronounced: DOH-veh see TROH-vah)
How much does… cost? Quanto costa…? (pronounced: KWAHN-toh KOH-stah)
Do you speak English? Parla inglese? (pronounced: PAR-lah een-GLAY-zeh)
I don’t understand. Non capisco (pronounced: non kah-PEE-skoh)

Useful phrases

I would like… Vorrei… (pronounced: vohr-RAY)
I’m sorry. Mi dispiace (pronounced: mee dis-PYAH-cheh)
I don’t know. Non so (pronounced: non soh)
Can you repeat? Può ripetere? (pronounced: pwo ree-PEH-teh-reh)
Thank you very much. Grazie mille (pronounced: GRAHT-see-eh MEE-leh)

By learning these simple words and phrases, you’ll be able to handle most everyday situations in Rome. Don’t hesitate to practice your Italian with locals—they’ll appreciate your effort and be happy to help.

Rome cruise guide

If you enjoyed this page and want even more, download my full “Rome for Cruise Passengers” guide. It’s packed with tips, insider advice, and itineraries to make the most of your stop in Rome.

And if you already have all the info you need, I wish you a wonderful stop in Rome!
Don’t forget to bookmark MonTataneTour: it doesn’t make noise, but when it’s time to cruise again, it will be there to guide you.