Trips North of Rome Before or After a Cruise from Civitavecchia Port
General
Rome is a popular destination both for travelers in Europe and as a departure point for Mediterranean cruises or a transatlantic cruise.
You can read about trips in Rome itself in my article: Travel itineraries in Rome.
Those who have already had their fill of Rome will be pleased to hear that north of Rome (and west of the port of Civitavecchia, the port of Rome) there are several wonderful destinations and attractions worth a diverse trip of 3-4 nights, depending on the pace you choose. The region is known for its hot springs, medieval cities and towns, magnificent fortresses, and gardens.
Pitigliano
It is recommended to stay in one place for several nights and embark on star trips (day trips) to the destinations detailed below. A great central base from which you can set out on day trips within an hour's drive or less is, for example, the city of Viterbo (located about an hour and a half from Rome).
Those interested in an extended trip in Tuscany and Umbria with another accommodation or two will find details in the article about Southern Tuscany: Star trip in Southern Tuscany from Siena and about Umbria: Destinations, attractions, and trips in Umbria, Italy.
Recommended accommodations north of Rome:
Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort A 5-star hotel particularly recommended for lovers of spa, hot springs, and golf. A prestigious and high-quality historic hotel with gourmet restaurants—ideal before or after a cruise. A true indulgence with numerous day trip options nearby. Located in southern Tuscany, about an hour and fifteen minutes northeast of the Civitavecchia cruise port.
Hotel Niccolo' V - Terme dei Papi A 4-star spa hotel with a huge pool fed by thermal hot springs, near the city of Viterbo. The hotel also features a fitness room and a restaurant.
Palazzo Catalani Resort A 4-star resort with lovely gardens, a spa, a fitness room, a restaurant, and a bar. Located in the town of Soriano nel Cimino, about 10 km east of Viterbo.
Agriturismo Le Cascatelle Farm stay accommodations in the Saturnia area. Features a 2-bedroom villa suitable for 4-6 people, a one-bedroom apartment for a couple, and a double room. The farm produces olive oil and wine (which can be purchased on site), and serves delicious homemade breakfasts.
Casa Vacanze La Mattonara High-quality holiday apartments in several sizes: from one bedroom up to 4 bedrooms with a living room, especially suited for families, including extended families. Features a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, gardens, and balconies.
Transfers and Tours for Cruise Passengers in Rome:
These tours are designed for cruise passengers, departing from and returning to the port. Keep in mind that the port is located about 80 km from the city of Rome.
Guided Tours from Civitavecchia Port
♦ A Recommended Tour of Orvieto and Civita:
Best Of Civitavecchia Shore Tour: Orvieto & Civita Di Bagnoregio Tour A 7-9 hour tour departing from the cruise terminal to two impressive ancient towns: Orvieto and Civita, both declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
♦ Private Tour with Dedicated Driver to Rome from the Port for Cruise Passengers:
Civitavecchia Port: 9 Hours Luxury Private Full-Day Shore excursion of Rome
Pick-up and drop-off at the port, tailored for cruise ship guests. A tour of Rome's famous attractions with a private driver.
♦ Private Transfer from Rome Airport to Hotel or Vice Versa:
Rome Airport Transfer - ONE WAY
♦ A top-notch local company that will craft custom tours from the port to selected destinations in the region tailored to your personal preferences, featuring excellent drivers and guides:
Email: samuele@tasteandslowitaly.com
Or: stefania@tasteandslowitaly.com
Phone (with WhatsApp): 39.320.662.6081
Rome - The Pantheon
Private Transfers and Tours from Civitavecchia Port
Orvieto
An impressive ancient city perched on a cliff 325 meters above sea level and about 200 meters above the surrounding landscape. Located in southwestern Umbria, just an hour and a half north of Rome, it pairs perfectly with a visit to Rome, a cruise departing from Rome, or a journey through Tuscany or Umbria.
Orvieto is best known for its magnificent, grand cathedral, The Duomo, located in the town center, whose construction began in 1290 and spanned several centuries.
It is also famous for its ancient underground tunnels dating back 2,500 years, which contain an exceptionally deep well.
In addition, it features charming alleys and piazzas brimming with shops offering ceramics, olive wood creations, music boxes, and an array of fine local wine stores.
The town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and gourmet food shops, and it is well worth dedicating at least 4 hours to exploring it.
Wine and Cheese Tasting Tour at a Winery
Winery tour and wine, cheese & charcuterie tasting For wine and food enthusiasts who are already in Orvieto with a car—a guided tour at a nearby winery including wine tastings paired with locally produced cheeses. The tour lasts about two hours.
The Town of Civita di Bagnoregio
Italy is full of fortified ancient cities, some perched high on mountains, but a unique and fascinating place like Civita di Bagnoregio—or simply "Civita" to locals—is truly rare.
Only seven permanent residents live here! (During tourist seasons there are many more, and there are even quality B&Bs). Access is exclusively via an elevated pedestrian bridge. The views from the town are breathtaking, and walking along its narrow alleys among historic stone houses, lush greenery, and gardens is a pure joy.
It pairs wonderfully with Orvieto (about a 30-minute drive south of Orvieto). Located approximately an hour and fifteen minutes north of Rome in northern Lazio, bordering southern Tuscany and Umbria. The steep cliffs beneath the town are subject to continuous erosion, causing parts of the foundation under some buildings to give way.
Pitigliano
A well-preserved walled town in southern Tuscany, also perched atop a dramatic cliff and offering stunning views.
The town is known as "Little Jerusalem" thanks to the thriving Jewish community that once lived here, at times comprising roughly 20 percent of the town's population. To this day, shops sell kosher food and wine, and there is an active 16th-century synagogue. It is highly recommended to buy the traditional pastry called "Sfratto" (available at the kosher bakery/shop).
Near the town, just to the south, lies an ancient Jewish cemetery.
It is delightful to stroll through the narrow alleys, wander into densely clustered courtyards with steep stone staircases lined with potted plants, gaze out at the surrounding panoramas—including the ancient aqueduct—browse the local galleries and boutiques, and enjoy a delicious meal in one of the quaint restaurants tucked inside the alleys or at the town entrance.
The town combines wonderfully with a visit to the thermal springs of Cascate del Mulino, located about a half-hour drive to the west.
Sculpture Gardens
Italy is a paradise for garden lovers, especially sculpture gardens.
Two extraordinary, uniquely impressive sculpture gardens—vastly different from one another—are situated north of Rome.
Giardino dei Tarocchi
"The Tarot Garden" in southern Tuscany, about an hour's drive from Viterbo (and 40 minutes north of Rome's cruise port in Civitavecchia).
These stunning gardens were inspired by tarot cards, showcasing gigantic, surreal, and colorful figures adorned with sparkling mosaics.
"Sacro Bosco" (The Sacred Grove)
Located about half an hour's drive east of Viterbo, also known as the "Park of the Monsters." Completely different from the Tarot Garden, yet no less extraordinary. Nestled inside a vast grove shaded by trees and rocky terrain are dozens of stone sculptures—some massive—depicting grotesque figures of mythical gods, monsters, fantastical beasts, unusual structures, and animals.
Among the famous sculptures: the "Mouth of Orcus" (Mouth of Truth), the Leaning House, a sphinx, and dragons.
The park was created back in the 16th century, but following the death of the commissioning patron, it was neglected for centuries until it was rediscovered, restored, and turned into a celebrated attraction.
There is also an excellent restaurant on site.
Hot Springs
Cascate del Mulino di Saturnia
These are picturesque, gorgeous, and inviting thermal hot springs in southern Tuscany, just an hour and fifteen minutes (80 km) north of Rome's port in Civitavecchia.
Admission to the natural springs is completely free! Nearby paid parking is available, along with lockers, changing facilities, and a café. On your way to the springs from the south (about five minutes prior to arrival), don't miss stopping at the lookout point for a panoramic view over the cascades.
As mentioned earlier, there is also an exceptional 5-star hotel in the area: Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort, featuring extensive thermal baths and luxurious pools.
Spring Blooms:
Another wonderful reason to visit Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio in May—aside from pleasant spring weather—is the breathtaking bloom of wild red poppies found everywhere: in open fields between villages and even along highway verges.
Accommodations in Rome
In Rome, it is best to stay in the city center close to major sights. There is no need for a rental car; getting around by public transport and taxis saves you the hassle of pricey parking. Here are several recommended lodging options in central Rome:
Recommended Hotels in Central Rome:
Near Piazza Navona:
Hotel - Hotel Lunetta
A 4-star hotel located 100 meters from Piazza Navona. Spa access included in the price. Air-conditioned rooms. Free Wi-Fi. Paid parking available.
Close to Piazza Navona. Air-conditioned rooms. Free Wi-Fi. Street parking. Family suites also available.
Suite Hotel:
Piazza Farnese Luxury Suites
A suite hotel accommodating 5-6 guests. Air-conditioned. Located adjacent to the Campo de' Fiori market, just a few minutes' walk from Piazza Navona. Free Wi-Fi. No parking.
Near the Vatican:
Hotel Rooms & Suites - Starhotels Michelangelo Rome
A 4-star property. Air-conditioned rooms accommodating 2-4 guests. Free Wi-Fi in select rooms. Paid parking nearby.
