Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Rome, the Eternal City, is accessed via the port of Civitavecchia, about 80 minutes northwest of the city center. Rome offers an unmatched combination of ancient history, world-famous art, and — uniquely for kosher travelers — one of the oldest Jewish communities in Europe with multiple kosher restaurants.

Highlights

• The Colosseum & Roman Forum — The iconic amphitheater and the heart of ancient Rome. Book skip-the-line tickets in advance during cruise season.
• Vatican City & St. Peter's Basilica — The Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Square, and the Vatican Museums. Modest dress is required.
• The Jewish Ghetto — Established in 1555, Rome's historic Jewish quarter is one of the oldest in the world. Home to the Great Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, ancient ruins of the Portico d'Ottavia, and 7+ kosher restaurants. A must-visit for Jewish travelers.
• Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps — Two of Rome's most famous landmarks, both walkable in the historic center.
• Pantheon — One of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings, now a church, with its famous open oculus dome.
• Trastevere — A charming neighborhood across the Tiber with cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Tips for Kosher Travelers

• Kosher restaurants in the Jewish Ghetto — Rome has the best kosher dining of any cruise port in Europe, all along Via del Portico d'Ottavia. Ba'Ghetto (meat, the largest kosher restaurant in Europe), Ba'Ghetto Milky (dairy/fish), Bellacarne (glatt kosher, also offers Shabbat meals), Su'Ghetto (meat), Yotvata (dairy, makes its own cheese), and Renato al Ghetto. All certified by the Beth Din of Rome.
• Plan your day around the Ghetto — Civitavecchia is 80 minutes by train. Plan your sightseeing so you're in the Ghetto around lunchtime. The Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trastevere are all walkable from there.
• Great Synagogue & Jewish Museum — The Tempio Maggiore (inaugurated 1904) and the Museo Ebraico di Roma tell the story of Rome's 2,200-year-old Jewish community — the oldest in Europe. Open Sun–Thu 10:00–16:30, Fri 9:00–14:00. Guided tours included with admission.
• Jewish Catacombs — The Vigna Randanini Jewish Catacombs on the Appian Way date to the 2nd century CE, with menorahs, shofars, and Torah scrolls carved into the walls. Guided tours available through romanjews.com.
• Chabad in Rome — Three Chabad houses serve Rome, including Beis Chabad in the Jewish Ghetto itself (Via di S. Maria del Pianto 1A). Daily services, Shabbat meals, and tourist assistance available.
• Book train tickets in advance — The regional train from Civitavecchia to Rome runs frequently (~€15 return). The Jewish Ghetto is near the Tram 8 stop from Trastevere station.

Port Guide

Civitavecchia is a pier port about 80 minutes from central Rome. You can reach Rome by regional train (about 80 minutes to Roma Termini), shuttle bus, or private transfer. The train station is a 10-minute walk or short shuttle from the cruise terminal.

If you prefer to stay near the port, Civitavecchia has a pleasant waterfront, a fortress, and local cafés. Some passengers choose a half-day in Rome combined with time at the port.