Civitavecchia(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Civitavecchia, Hotel La Perla is a top choice for families, offering spacious family rooms, kids’ play areas, and direct access to the Old Harbour. The hotel provides free parking, buffet breakfast, and on-site assistance with boat tours to Ischia or Naples. Located near the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the beach promenade, it combines convenience with scenic views. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood at nearby restaurants and participate in local cultural workshops like Roman stone carving. Perfect for a relaxed, enriching coastal getaway.

The historic city center of Civitavecchia is ideal for first-time visitors, located just steps from the Ancient Roman Port Ruins and Porta di Roma. Along Via Primo Libera, you’ll find charming B&Bs like B&B Il Giardino dei Sogni, offering quiet accommodations and easy access to the waterfront. This district also hosts the main bus stops and train station, making travel to Rome, Naples, or Capri seamless. Evening strolls through cobbled streets illuminated by warm lights offer a genuine taste of southern Italian charm and authentic local life.

Immerse yourself in Roman stone carving workshops at Cantieri d'Arte, located in the old harbor area, where artisans teach traditional techniques using local marble. During summer, join the Festa della Madonna Assunta, a vibrant festival around the Santa Maria Assunta Church, featuring folk music, dance performances, and torchlight processions. For history lovers, guided underground tours of the ancient Roman substructures reveal hidden tunnels and drainage systems from the 1st century BCE—offering a rare glimpse into Civitavecchia’s imperial past.

The most popular beach is Spiaggia del Pescatore, known for its white sand, clear waters, and natural rock overhangs perfect for shade. It offers water sports rentals including windsurfing, kayaking, and scuba diving. For a more secluded experience, visit Baia delle Zingare, accessible via a 15-minute walk through coastal trails. This hidden cove is ideal for swimming and photography. At sunset, beachside tavernas light lanterns and serve grilled fish and local Cannone wine, creating a romantic Mediterranean ambiance.

Don’t miss the Ancient Roman Port Ruins, one of the best-preserved Roman harbors in Italy, with massive concrete foundations and ancient docking platforms. Nearby, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, housing priceless frescoes. Walk along the old city walls for panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the port below. For a breathtaking vista, hike up to San Giovanni Monastery on Monte Salviano, where you can see the entire coastline stretching toward Rome and Naples.

Try Cacciucco, a rich seafood stew made with multiple varieties of fish, cooked slowly in a tomato-based sauce with herbs and garlic. Enjoy it at Trattoria da Vittorio, known for daily fresh catches. Another must-try is Torta di Melanzane, a savory eggplant cake from Pasticceria Santa Lucia, crispy on the outside and soft within. Pair your meal with Cannone white wine, a crisp local varietal produced near the coast—perfectly complementing seafood and enhancing the true taste of the Tyrrhenian Riviera.

A 2- to 3-day itinerary is ideal for exploring Civitavecchia. Day one: visit the Roman Port Ruins, Santa Maria Assunta Church, and stroll the Old City Walls. Day two: take a boat tour to Ischia Island or explore the Tyrrhenian coast by bike. Day three: join a pottery workshop or shop at the Mercato di Piazza for local olive oil and handmade goods. This balanced mix of history, nature, and culture captures the essence of this historic port city.

Yes, Civitavecchia is highly accessible. Most attractions are walkable, and free shuttle buses link the train station, port, and airport. Regional trains connect to Rome (1 hour) and Naples (1.5 hours). The port offers frequent ferry services to Ischia, Capri, and Salerno. Bike rental stations are widespread, ideal for cycling along scenic coastal paths. Consider the Italy Rail Pass to save on intercity travel costs and enjoy seamless access across central Italy.

Nightlife in Civitavecchia is relaxed and authentic. The Piazza del Mercato hosts live music on weekends, while bars like Bar Lido serve craft cocktails and local beer with sea views. Some seaside restaurants extend service until 10 PM, serving hot pizza and grilled seafood. For a livelier scene, take an evening ferry to Naples. Overall, Civitavecchia suits travelers seeking tranquility, romance, and intimate evenings rather than loud clubs or party scenes.

In June, experience the Festa del Mare, a vibrant maritime festival held at the Harbor Square, featuring decorated boats, seafood markets, and folk dances. In September, the Roman Reenactment Festival brings history to life with costumed actors reenacting ancient trade rituals at the Roman Port Ruins. During winter, the Christmas Market at Santa Maria Assunta Church sells handmade crafts and warm mulled wine, creating a festive atmosphere. These events celebrate Civitavecchia’s heritage and invite visitors to become part of local traditions.