I have booked a cruise. I am planning on arriving in Rome the day prior to boarding the ship. I would like to know the least expensive and easiest way to get from Rome to Civitavecchia where I board the ship. I know there are trains available from Rome. Does anyone know the cost? Also are there shuttle service available? Incidentally the cruise company wants to charge several hundred dollars for this transfer! Please help.
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
There are at least two trains/hour from Rome to Civitavecchia. Most are regional trains which make the trip in 60-80 minutes. The fare is €4.50. ICplus trains take 50 minutes and the 2nd class fare is €8.50. EuroStar City trains also take 50 minutes and the 2nd class fare is €10.50. See the timetables and fares at www.trenitalia.com.
Posted by
Laguna Hills, CA, USA
5 posts
Train is certainly the least expensive, but I suspect that luggage might be a problem/hassle if you're packed for a cruise, or have several people. I faced this exact same problem about two years ago, and had the hotel find me a driver with a car. Not a taxi; more like a limo (not a stretch like here, but a nice MB which held 4 passengers). Cost was 100 Euros, plus tip.
Warning - It took my relatively small, 3* hotel, two days to find the driver, so you might want to ask them in advance, if you choose this option. 100+ Euros may sound expensive, but remember, you'll need taxis at both ends, plus luggage handling.
PS If you don't speak Italian, take a picture of your ship with you. My guy had no idea where to go until I showed it to him.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23282 posts
The least expensive and easiest way is as Tim described earlier. The train is about a mile from the port entrance and a free shuttle bus will take you from the entrance to your ship. The walk is easy along the beech and you probably will see your ship from the train station. There is a local bus for a 1E to the port entrance along with taxis. We have always found the line too long for the bus so we walk. You will have lots of company.
If returning to Rome after the cruise, buy a round trip ticket in Rome. When the cruise ship or ships dock the line for tickets will take long than the ride back to Rome. It is easy -- we have done it four times.
PS -- There is no reason to have a lot of extra luggage for a cruise and paying $150 for a car to the port is outrageous.
Posted by
OP
Whittier, CA
5 posts
Thank you all for the information. It certainly will help make my holiday more affordable and enjoyable!!!