Best Attractions near the Cruise Port in Rome

Once you leave the port area and cross one of the main streets, Corso Marconi you will reach the medieval center of Civitavecchia. The pretty cobblestoned Piazza Leandra is the centrepiece of this old town area and features an attractive fountain and the Church of the Stella. From here it's a short climb to the entrance of old Civitavecchia which is reached by walking through the Archetto (an ancient archway).

Perfect for families to kickstart a cruise vacation, Aquafelix is a massive waterpark with wave and traditional pools, navigable man-made rivers, four restaurants, one mile of waterslides and plenty of parking. There's showers and changing rooms. Just off the Nord Civitavecchia exit on the A12 freeway just outside of Civitavecchia. Family friendly, with full disabled access, beat the heat and enjoy over one mile of water slides and a four full restaurants featuring local Italian cuisine. Voted on of Italy's Top 10 Waterparks. Open June - August.

This site existed as a small church from 1610 (that had been built under the direction of Pope Paul V) but 1769 was when the cathedral came to be. Built by the Franciscans in Baroque-Neoclassical style, it remains the biggest and most beautiful church in the area. The statues of Justice and Hope stand proud here, under which, in a rich frame of golden stucco, is the fresco painting by Antonio Nessi representing Saint Francis experiencing the holy Stigmata.

Since 1995, pilgrims from around the world have flocked to St Agostino in Pantano, a suburb of Civitavecchia seeking a miracle or to simply view the famed Weeping Madonna. While speculation remains to this day, this white plaster statue which was originally bought from a souvenir stall at the shrine of Our Lady at Medjugorje in Bosnia, was reported in 1995 to have wept tears of blood. It's one of the most important religious sites of the area.

What is now the main museum of the Civitavecchia area was once the headquarters or the papal garrison in the 18th century building that belonged to Pope Clement XIII. You can view many archeological findings from Centumcellae, (the ancient name of Civitavecchia). Some of the highlights include a beautiful statue of the Greek God of Apollo, a replica of the statue of goddess Athena and a philosophical portrait of Socrates.

The pedestrianized seafront promenade of Civitavecchia is a bustling port and city hotspot. Featuring shops and bars, it's a short walk from where cruise ships dock or the train station. A great place for a stroll along the sea and dotted with restaurants and bars with a great seaview, makes for a nice leisurely afternoon activity. The large and famous Unconditional Surrender statue of the sailor kissing a nurse to mark the end of the second world war, towers over the promenade and is a nice touch.

Lying about 4km north of Civitacechia is a thermal spring facility that will have you relaxing and bathing like the Etruscans of old. The name is derived from the Italian word for fig, fico because of a wild fig tree that lies on the hill. Containing sulphur and other natural minerals, the waters are renowned for their healing properties. There are five large pools and showers, mud bathing plus a a small coffee shop.

Not far from the Ficoncella Thermal Springs are the Taurine Baths also know as the Trajan Baths. Dating back to Etruscans and originally known as the Aquae Taurae, they remain a well preserved archeological roman site. The site features remains of baths, pools, dressing rooms, treatment and massage rooms and meeting rooms. Be sure to look out for the best preserved feature of the entire site - a villa built by Trajan himself.

In order to defend the Port of Rome, Pope Julius II commissioned Renaissance architect Bramante to build the massive Forte Michelangelo. Giuliano Leno eventually completed the job in 1535 and Michelangelo also worked on the project, designing the middle tower. It was built over the ruins of ancient Roman barracks and this impressive example of 16th century military architecture remains the most imposing monument in Civitavecchia, towering over the port.

Consistently and deservedly on lists of the world's best cruise liners, Swiss-based global enterprise MSC continues to offer an array of exciting sailings. Their fleet of state-of-the-art ships will impress cruise travelers of all budgets and styles. Here in Rome (via the Civitavecchia port), you're spoiled for choice with itineraries that sail around the Mediterranean (think glamorous Cannes, party central Ibiza, the vibrant Palermo, elegant Genoa and more) and offer a gateway into northern and even Southern European destinations. On just some of the ships that dock here - like the mega modern Seaside - immerse yourself in a luxury floating hotel with expansive suites that boast spa balconies, multiple swimming pools and solarium sun decks, bars, restaurants (including speciality offerings like live Teppanyaki cooking), a full blown rainforest inspired water park and zip line for thrill seekers. The Aurea Spa is a Balinese style oasis that houses a jacuzzi, saunas, salt and snow rooms, wellness showers and relaxation area for you to use before a host of rejuvenating treatments. Nights can be spent at Broadway-like shows, the fully equipped casino or dancing at DJ parties on deck. And for those looking to splurge a little, the Yacht Club class is unrivalled for privacy, priority privileges and your very own 24/7 butler.