Ferries Civitavecchia

Ferry discounts to and from Civitavecchia vary by route and operator, but the following are commonly available:

• Children: infants up to 2-3 years old usually travel for free. Children up to 11 years old often receive discounted fares.
• Residents of Sardinia and Sicily: locals can access discounted fares on routes between Civitavecchia and their respective islands. To apply the discount, simply select it during booking and enter your ID or passport number on Ferryhopper.

You can reach Rome (Civitavecchia) by ferry from several popular Mediterranean destinations. Regular services operate from Sardinia (Olbia, Porto Torres, Cagliari, and Arbatax), Sicily (Palermo and Termini Imerese), Spain (Barcelona), and North Africa (Tunisia and Morocco). Most routes run year-round, while the connection from Tangier is typically seasonal, operating only during the summer months.

Sardinia - Rome (Civitavecchia)

• Olbia - Civitavecchia: 1 daily departure in winter, increasing to up to 5 daily connections during the high season. The journey takes approximately 6-8 hours, with fares starting from €35-40.
• Porto Torres - Civitavecchia: a few departures per week, with crossings lasting 6-9 hours. Prices start from €25.
• Cagliari - Civitavecchia: operates around 3 times per week, with travel times between 13-15 hours. Tickets start at €40.
• Arbatax - Civitavecchia: usually 2-3 departures weekly, taking about 9 hours. Prices start from €40.

Tip: find out more about Sardinia - Rome (Civitavecchia) ferries on Ferryhopper.

Sicily - Rome (Civitavecchia)

• Palermo - Civitavecchia: up to 4 departures weekly, lasting 12-14 hours. Tickets start from €47.
• Termini Imerese - Civitavecchia: ferries operate 5 times per week, with journeys of 12-14 hours. Fares start at approximately €50.

Spain - Rome (Civitavecchia)

• Barcelona - Civitavecchia: more than 10 weekly departures, with travel times ranging from 18-22 hours. Prices start at €45.

Tunisia - Rome (Civitavecchia)

• Tunis - Civitavecchia: up to 3 departures per week. Crossing times range from 17.5-28 hours, with tickets starting around €30.

Morocco - Rome (Civitavecchia)

• Tangier - Civitavecchia: seasonal service, usually once per week during summer. The journey lasts 54-58 hours, with fares starting at €150.

There are 4 ferry companies serving routes to Rome (Civitavecchia):

• Grimaldi Lines serves ferry routes from Arbatax, Cagliari, Olbia, Porto Torres, Barcelona, and Tunis. 
• GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) primarily serves the routes from Palermo, Termini Imerese, Tunis, and Tangier.
• Moby Lines operates ferry routes from Olbia.
• Tirrenia operates ferry services from Olbia and Porto Torres.

How much luggage can you take on the ferry to Rome (Civitavecchia)?

Each ferry company has its own luggage policy:

• On Grimaldi Lines ferries, each passenger can carry 1 piece of luggage (included in the ticket price) with a maximum size of 56x45x25 cm. You can also bring along 1 small piece of luggage (bag or backpack). For any additional luggage, you need to pay an extra fee.
• GNV allows passengers to bring up to 2 pieces of luggage onboard.
• On Moby Lines there are no limits to the weight and dimensions of luggage.
• With Tirrenia, passengers can carry 1 piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 20 kg.

The duration of ferry trips to Rome (Civitavecchia) ranges from about 5 hours 30 minutes to over 48 hours, depending on the departure port and route. Shorter crossings are usually from Sardinia, while international routes take significantly longer.

Here are the travel times on the main routes to Civitavecchia:

From Sardinia:

• Olbia - Civitavecchia: 5.5 hours
• Porto Torres - Civitavecchia: 5 hours 45 minutes
• Arbatax - Civitavecchia: 9 hours
• Cagliari - Civitavecchia: 13 hours

From Sicily:

• Palermo - Civitavecchia: 10 hours 15 minutes
• Termini Imerese - Civitavecchia: 12.5 hours

From international ports:

• Barcelona (Spain) - Civitavecchia: 18 hours 40 min.
• Tunis (Tunisia) - Civitavecchia: 13.5 hours
• Tangier (Morocco) - Civitavecchia: over 48 hours

Choosing the best ferry route to Rome (Civitavecchia) depends on whether you prioritize travel time or cost. Routes from Sardinia are usually the most convenient option, offering both the fastest crossings and some of the lowest fares, especially from ports like Olbia and Porto Torres

Which is the fastest route to Rome?

The fastest ferry route to Rome (Civitavecchia) is from Olbia in Sardinia. The crossing usually takes around 5.5 hours, depending on the ferry and weather conditions.

What is the cheapest ferry route to Rome?

The cost of Rome (Civitavecchia) ferries depends on the departure port, season and type of accommodation. Tickets from Sardinia and Sicily usually start at around €30-40 per person, while international routes, such as Barcelona and Tunis, tend to be slightly more expensive.

In general, ferries from Sardinia, especially from Olbia or Porto Torres, are among the cheapest options to reach Civitavecchia. To get the best price, we recommend booking in advance and keeping an eye out for special offers.

When traveling by ferry from/to Rome, you can bring your car, motorcycle, camper van or bicycle with you on the trip, as they typically have car decks.

We recommend that you book well in advance (at least 3 months), especially if you plan to travel during the busy summer season, to ensure your spot and get the best price.

How much does it cost to bring my car to Rome (Civitavecchia)?

The cost of bringing a vehicle on Rome (Civitavecchia) ferries depends on the route, vehicle type and season. Prices generally start at around €50, but may increase during peak periods or on longer routes.

Can I take my campervan on the ferry to Rome (Civitavecchia)?

Yes, all major ferry operators serving Rome (Civitavecchia) accommodate campervans and motorhomes. Motorhome transport costs normally depend on vehicle length. Prices usually start from around €65 for small campervans (under 5 m).

Tip: for more information, read our article about vehicle transportation rules on ferries in Italy.

Ferries to and from Rome (Civitavecchia) offer a variety of services, which may vary depending on the route and operator. Most ferries to Sardinia, Sicily, Spain, and North Africa include:

• Wi-Fi on board
• Snack bars and restaurants
• Shops
• Air-conditioned cabins and common areas with sofas and tables
• Outdoor decks
• Children's play areas
• Car decks

On board, you can also find various types of accommodation, including:

• Sleeping cabins (1 to 4 beds)
• Numbered airplane-style seats
• Passageway seats

Are there cabins on the ferries to Rome (Civitavecchia)?

Yes, there are usually cabins on Rome (Civitavecchia) ferries. If you have chosen to travel in a cabin, you will have the opportunity to choose from several options:

• Interior cabins
• Exterior cabins with portholes and sea views
• Suites (with double bed, living area, TV, and refrigerator)
• Pet-friendly cabins
• Cabins for passengers with disabilities

How much is a cabin on the ferry to Rome?

Cabin prices to Rome normally vary depending on the route, company, and cabin type. They usually start at around €70 and can go over €300, depending on the cabin type and the season.

What type of seats can you book on ferries to Rome?

Most ferries offer numbered, airplane-style reclining seats in designated air-conditioned lounges for a comfortable ride. In addition, all vessels provide deck-passage seating, which allows passengers to use public areas, bars, or outdoor decks freely without an assigned seat.

Are the ferries to Rome (Civitavecchia) accessible?

Yes, Rome (Civitavecchia) ferries are equipped to accommodate passengers with disabilities, though accessibility features can vary between operators and vessels. Most modern ferries offer:

• Wheelchair-accessible cabins with adapted bathrooms
• Elevators
• Ramps
• Designated wheelchair spaces in seating areas
• Accessible toilets

Can you take pets on the ferry to Rome (Civitavecchia)?

Yes, pets are allowed on Rome (Civitavecchia) ferries, making it easy to travel with your furry companion.

Where do pets stay on the ferry to Rome (Civitavecchia)?

Depending on the ferry company, pets can stay in pet-friendly cabins, dedicated onboard kennels, or on the outdoor decks. Animals must be kept on a leash or inside a carrier during the crossing, and pet fares usually range from €10 to €30, depending on the operator and route.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferries to Rome (Civitavecchia)?

Yes, most Rome (Civitavecchia) ferries have a Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected during the trip. Usually, the ferry companies have a range of data packages available to suit your needs.

Is there entertainment on the ferries?

Yes, the conventional ferries traveling from/to Rome generally have a range of entertainment options for a more enjoyable trip. Typically, you will find game rooms, playrooms for children, cinema, and TV lounges.

What documents do I need for the ferry trip to Rome (Civitavecchia)?

For most ferry trips from Rome (Civitavecchia) to destinations like Sicily, Sardinia and Spain, you will need:

• A valid ID or passport: required for all passengers, including EU citizens.
• Ferry ticket or booking confirmation: either printed or electronic.

If you are traveling with a car, motorcycle, or camper, you will also need to bring your vehicle registration and insurance documents.

How to book ferry tickets

You can book your ferry tickets to/from Rome (Civitavecchia) on Ferryhopper in just a few steps. Compare schedules and fares, and find the crossing that suits you best.

Check-in and boarding procedures

Check-in and boarding procedures can vary depending on the ferry operator. Arrive at the port at least 1-1.5 hours before departure, especially during high season.

• Foot passengers: go to the passenger terminal and follow the signs for check-in or boarding.
• Passengers with vehicles: follow port staff instructions to access the vehicle boarding lanes.

After check-in, board the ferry according to the operator’s boarding schedule.

Just 1 hour from Rome, Civitavecchia is a seaside city rich in history and culture, perfect for a short stop before cruising the Mediterranean. From the historic center and Forte Michelangelo to local beaches, nature reserves, and the nearby thermal baths, there’s plenty to enjoy in a limited time. Discover more on our travel guide for Civitavecchia.

Forte Michelangelo, the symbol of the port of Civitavecchia

Here are 8 tips to help you plan your ferry trip from Civitavecchia:

Arrive early at the port

During high season and on weekends, arrive at the port of Civitavecchia at least 1.5 hours before departure, especially if you’re boarding a vehicle.

Getting to the port from Rome

If you’re traveling without a car, Civitavecchia port is easily reached by train from Rome Termini in about 1 hour. From Civitavecchia train station, the ferry terminals are a short walk or bus ride away.

Choose a cabin for overnight crossings

On long or overnight routes, such as those to Sardinia, Sicily, or international destinations, we recommend booking a cabin for greater comfort.

Picking the right Sardinia port

If you have decided to travel from Civitavecchia to Sardinia by ferry but don't know which port to choose, consult our guides on Cagliari, Olbia, Porto Torres, and Arbatax to find the one that best suits your needs.

An alternative port for Sicily

When traveling to Sicily by ferry, Termini Imerese is a practical alternative to Palermo. The port is about 30 km from Palermo and often offers different schedules and availability.

Stopovers on Barcelona routes

Some ferries to Barcelona from Civitavecchia include a stop in Porto Torres, giving you another opportunity to visit northern Sardinia!

Documents for travel to Tunisia

For ferries to Tunis, a passport with at least 90 days of remaining validity is required. Traveling with an identity card is not permitted on this route.

Documents for travel to Morocco

Italian passengers traveling by ferry to Tangier do not need a visa, but a passport valid for at least 6 months is mandatory. Always check document requirements before departure, as rules may change.

Best time to book

The best time to book Rome (Civitavecchia) ferries depends on several factors, including the season, your destination, and whether you plan to travel with a cabin or a vehicle.

High season 

During the peak season, especially in summer, Rome (Civitavecchia) Ferries fill up quickly on popular routes to Sardinia, Sicily, and Barcelona. Booking 3-4 months in advance gives you better availability and access to early-booking discounts. This is particularly important for overnight crossings.

Off-season

In the low season, ferry demand is lower and ticket prices are usually more affordable. You can often find good last-minute deals and enjoy greater flexibility with departure dates and times. This period is ideal if your travel plans are flexible.

Cabins and vehicles availability

Cabins and vehicle spaces are limited and sell out fast on longer routes, such as those to Sardinia, Sicily, and Tunisia. If you plan to book a cabin or travel with your car, early booking is strongly recommended. Securing these options closer to departure can be difficult, even outside peak season.

Arrival

The port of Civitavecchia can get quite busy, especially in the summer, so we recommend you arrive at least 1 hour ahead of departure if you are traveling as a foot passenger, and at least 1.5 hours if you are traveling with a vehicle.

The port of Civitavecchia is one of the main ferry hubs in Lazio and central Italy. Every year, it handles millions of passengers traveling to and from Sardinia, Sicily, Spain, and North Africa.

Ferry departures take place from different terminals depending on the route. Ferries to Sardinia, Sicily, and Barcelona usually depart from terminals in the southern area of the port, while routes to Tunisia and Morocco operate from a dedicated terminal in the northern section.

As a large and well-equipped port, Civitavecchia offers several services, including ferry and cruise terminals, information points, bars, restaurants, shops, and luggage storage. Nearby, you’ll also find hotels and private parking facilities, some of which offer shuttle services to the terminals.

Where is Rome's port?

Rome’s main port is in the city of Civitavecchia, about 70 km northwest of Rome on the Tyrrhenian Sea.

How to get to Rome (Civitavecchia) port

You can get to the port of Civitavecchia by car, bus or on foot.

If you arrive in Civitavecchia by car, you can access the port area from the Varco Vespucci. If you are traveling without a vehicle from the train station, just take one of the CSP or PortLink city buses departing every 20 minutes and take just 10 minutes to reach the port.

Buses arrive at Largo della Pace, the dock for the cruise ships. For the ferry terminal, you can take the free shuttle service that will take you to the departure dock. You can also reach the port on foot through the entrance to Varco Fortezza and continue by shuttle bus.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Civitavecchia, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.