cruise ship stops in italy

12 Top Cruise Ports in Italy: A Mediterranean Journey

Cruise ports in Italy, nestled along the country’s extensive Mediterranean coastline, serve as gateways to this European gem’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

This article lists the 12 top cruise ports in Italy and details what each offers to tourists embarking on a cruise.

1. Civitavecchia Cruise Port

The Civitavecchia port ( website ) is a vital hub for anyone setting sail on a Mediterranean cruise. Known as Rome’s cruise port, this hub is more than just a stopping point; it’s a destination enriched with cultural landmarks.

Among them is Fort Michelangelo, a notable sight you’ll encounter upon arriving at the Port of Civitavecchia.

Transportation Services

• Complimentary Port Shuttles : Many tourists use the free shuttle service to get from the ship’s pier to the port entrance.
• Railway Station Connectivity : Civitavecchia station, a mere 800 meters from the port, offers regular train services to Rome.
• Bus and Taxi Services : Upon exiting the port, local buses and taxis are readily available for further transport needs.

Travel Tips

• Train Transfers to Rome : An approximately 70 to 90-minute train ride can take you into the heart of Rome with its historic sites.
• Airport Transfers : If heading to Fiumicino Airport , two train rides are necessary – first to Roma Ostiense and then to the airport.
• Advance Planning Advised : Careful planning is key when timing transfers between the port, Rome, or the airports.

Discovering Civitavecchia can be a delightful prelude or epilogue to your voyage, provided you’re well-informed and carefully plan your travels.

2. Venice Cruise Port

Venice, famed for its intricate waterways and rich history, is a pivotal hub for Mediterranean cruises. Although the historic  Port of Venice, in Italian Stazione Marittima ( website ), no longer accommodates large cruise ships, it remains a gateway for smaller vessels and river boats.

Cruise ships now mainly dock at alternate ports such as  Venice-Marghera , Ravenna , and Monfalcone . Passengers typically check in at Stazione Marittima and are then transported to their respective ports.

Public Transportation

A light rail shuttles passengers to Piazzale Roma. From there, a pleasant stroll can lead to the heart of Venice . Buses are available to the mainland but won’t take you directly to Venice’s core.

The “ Vaporetto ” ferries are a reliable choice for inter-island travel, with the San Basilio terminal near the port.

3. Livorno Cruise Port

Livorno Cruise Port ( website ), positioned on Italy’s northwest seaside, serves as an essential maritime hub for Tuscany , offering the perfect launchpad for shore excursions to the region’s renowned cities of Florence, Pisa, and Lucca.

Before you start exploring the Tuscan region upon arriving in Livorno, consider taking time to discover the town. While it may not be a major tourist destination, Livorno offers a charming and enjoyable atmosphere that’s worth experiencing.

For transportation from the port, check if your cruise line provides a shuttle to the town center or to Livorno Central Train Station. If not, a convenient bus service runs from  Piazza Giuseppe Micheli to various parts of the city. 

If you want to venture beyond Livorno, use the train services to visit nearby Pisa and Lucca . The train to Pisa is particularly convenient, bringing you close to the iconic Leaning Tower and other historical sites. For more detailed travel plans, visit the Trenitalia website for up-to-date schedules and pricing.

As for facilities, Livorno, one of the busiest ports in Italy, also serves as an important ferry terminal , offering sea routes to Corsica, Sardinia, and even Barcelona. The ferry embarkation points are adequately close to where the voyage liners dock.

4. Genoa Cruise Port

Located at the heart of Genoa’s maritime hub,  Stazione Maritima ( website ), one of Italy’s most popular ports, serves as the primary terminal for cruise ships.

Genoa serves as an ideal cruise port for visitors eager to discover the marvels of the Italian Riviera, including the enchanting Cinque Terre (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the glamorous Portofino , and the picturesque Santa Margherita .

Conveniently positioned on the Ligurian coast, Genoa offers convenient services to various destinations, including France, Tunisia, Morocco, Spain, and notable Italian gems. A terminal near Stazione Maritima makes it easy to reach all these destinations.

Transport Options:

• Walking: Most of the city’s attractions, including those at the Old Harbor, are within walking distance.
• Metro: A metro station is conveniently situated near the terminal, connecting passengers to various parts of the city.
• Bus: Regular bus services run to the commercial center from the terminal.
• Train: For farther destinations like Milan, the Genova Principe train station can be reached by transport, though it’s a considerable walk from the port.

Local Highlights:

• Architecture: A stroll through the city would not be complete without witnessing the famed Genoa Cathedral and the modern marvels like the Biosphere and Aquarium.

Pro Tip : Those embarking or debarking from a cruise in Genoa might find it advantageous to include Milan in their itinerary . This vibrant city can serve as an excellent starting or endpoint, easily accessible by train.

5. Naples Cruise Port

Located in the heart of the vibrant city of Naples, the  Porto Napoli , also known as Stazione Maritima ( website ), is strategically positioned just across from the prominent Piazza del Municipio and the majestic Castel Nuovo .

Just a brief 10-minute stroll is all it takes to immerse oneself in the bustling Naples city center.

Getting Around

• Metro Access: A metro station is conveniently placed close by, facilitating effortless exploration of the city.
• Tour Buses: The Naples hop-on-hop-off bus service terminal is within easy reach, offering two distinct itineraries—one spotlighting the city center and another unveiling the scenic coastline.
• Ferry Services: Departing from the Molo Beverello area, visitors can access ferries and hydrofoils to the picturesque islands of Capri and Ischia, Sorrento, and other noteworthy destinations.

Suggested Read : For a look at what Naples has to offer, read 10 Reasons to Visit Naples, Italy . From pizzerias to Pompeii, this city has it all.

Recommended Excursions

• Island Excursions: The enchanting Island of Capri is a short hydrofoil ride away. It boasts breathtaking landscapes and exquisite dining options.
• Amalfi Coast Adventure: For those beginning or concluding their voyage in Naples, a jaunt along the famed Amalfi Coast—with stops in Sorrento, Positano (and its best restaurants ), and Amalfi—is a must-do.
• Pompeii Exploration : A recommended excursion from the port of Napoli, visiting the ancient ruins of Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into life before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

6. Salerno Cruise Port

The Salerno Cruise Port is located in Southern Italy and serves as a gateway to the scenic Amalfi Coast . The port is well-equipped for cruise passengers, offering a range of convenient transportation options.

Upon disembarking, passengers can utilize a complimentary shuttle service to the port gate . Given that the port’s layout isn’t conducive to on-foot exploration, this shuttle is a lifesaver for reaching downtown Salerno, roughly 4 km away.

Salerno boasts an efficient metro system that runs parallel to the coast through the city center, making it an ideal place to explore further.

Additionally,  Sitabus operates extensive coach services, connecting Salerno to popular destinations like Amalfi , Positano , and Sorrento . A 24-hour pass is affordable, but note that buses can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Interested in a maritime adventure? The port’s ferry service offers trips along the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast, adding a scenic route to your itinerary. For instance, a return ferry trip to the quaint town of Amalfi is modestly priced.

Apart from these services, train travel in Italy can be arranged through the Trenitalia website, with current schedules and fares clearly laid out.

While in Salerno, strolling along the Lungomare Trieste promenade is a must. Rich in history and beauty, the imposing Arechis Castle and Salerno Cathedral are also well worth a visit.

7. Messina Cruise Port

The picturesque port city of Messina ( website ), located on the northeastern coast of Sicily, is a notable stop for cruise ships navigating the Mediterranean Sea.

With  Mount Etna looming in the distance, it serves as an exceptional gateway for travelers keen on exploring Sicily’s  rich historical tapestry and natural wonders.

When disembarking at the Messina cruise ship terminal , the vibrant city welcomes you with its array of cultural landmarks. The  cathedral (Duomo) , boasting an intriguing astronomical clock, and a heap of local museums are some of the city’s highlights that I like to immerse myself in.

Train Service

• Messina Marittima and Messina Centrale are the two main train stations.
• Hourly trains to Taormina -Giardini offer scenic rides taking about an hour.
• For up-to-date schedules and fares, the Trenitalia website is your go-to resource.

Bus Service

• Buses to Taormina are also an option, though it’s a longer trip (nearly two hours).
• The central bus station is conveniently positioned next to the Messina Centrale train station.

Exploring Beyond Messina

To fully appreciate Sicily’s beauty , consider joining an excursion to Taormina or Mount Etna, which enhances the experience. Taormina mesmerizes with its hilltop allure, offering breathtaking vistas and the chance to wander through Corso Umberto’s shops.

For outdoor enthusiasts,  Mount Etna is a day trip; due to the volcano’s distance, booking an excursion from the cruise ship is preferable.

8. Trieste Cruise Port

The Trieste cruise port, nestled in Italy’s northeastern part of the Adriatic Sea, serves as a key maritime hub. It is recognized as  one of Italy’s most pivotal cruise and ferry terminals , catering to both international cruise lines and local ferry services.

Historically, even before its incorporation into Italy during the Austro-Hungarian Empire era, Trieste played a crucial role as a significant port city in the region.

Cruise ships at the Trieste Cruise Port ( website ) dock in an exceptionally convenient location, adjacent to Trieste’s renowned main square, Piazza Unità d’Italia .

Suggested Read : 20 Famous Italian Piazzas That Will Leave You Breathless

At Trieste’s port, a single pier on the Gulf of Trieste accommodates two cruise ships simultaneously.

Passengers can simply walk along a designated pathway and cross the street to find themselves in the heart of the city , immediately immersed in its rich array of attractions and historical sites.

9. Ancona Cruise Port

Ancona, located along the Adriatic Sea, is renowned for its picturesque sea views and wealth of historical architecture.

The cruise port of Ancona ( website ) is strategically located opposite the city’s bustling center, facilitating immediate access for visitors to explore on foot. This makes it an ideal port of call for those arriving by sea.

The Cathedral of Ancona, established in 1189 with its notable lion-flanked doorway, stands as a testament to the city’s art and history. Other significant sites include the Arch of Trajan, an ancient entrance to the harbor, and the architectural marvels of the Lazzaretto and Episcopal Palace.

The city’s convenient bus service provides easy access to local beaches and key viewpoints like the Duomo and Passeto.

Further afield, the historical towns of Urbino , San Marino , and Loreto are accessible, highlighting the region’s cultural and religious heritage.

10. Bari Cruise Port

Arriving at Bari via Karol Wojtyla Airport, the journey to the terminal is straightforward. Take a taxi or bus to the city center, and then bus number 20 leads directly to the new terminal.

This terminal between Saint Cataldo Quay and Foraneo Quay underscores Bari’s importance as a cruise destination .

The historic city center, a short 20-minute walk from the port, is easily accessible, with plenty of shuttles and taxis available.

Bari’s old town, known for its medieval architecture and lively nightlife, boasts attractions such as the Basilica of San Nicola and the Castello Normanno-Svevo (Norman-Swabian Castle).

The city’s diverse districts highlight Bari’s rich urban tapestry, from the medieval streets of the Old Town to the modern core of Borgo Murattiano with its shopping lanes .

The port is more than a point of transit; it’s a cultural hub, reflecting Bari’s Byzantine, Norman, and Arabic heritage.

11. Palermo Cruise Port

Palermo, a city teeming with history, is a lively cruise port on Sicily’s northwestern coast. Its proximity to downtown, just a five-minute walk , makes it a convenient entry point for visitors to explore the area directly from the port, which currently accommodates ferries.

Transportation from the port includes the Hop on/off buses, which offer two routes directly from the terminal: the 60-minute Line A and the 50-minute Line B.

Additionally, exploring Palermo on foot or by horse-drawn carriage provides a unique city experience, while the Trenino tourist train offers sightseeing tours starting at the port.

Sights to See

Key attractions in Palermo include the Politeama and Massimo theatres, Piazza Quattro Canti, and the botanical gardens. The Capuchin Catacombs offer a unique, though eerie, experience. Caution is advised near the port area after dark.

Most establishments follow a siesta schedule, closing in the early afternoon and reopening in the evening, Monday to Saturday. Some larger stores may remain open all week, offering extended shopping hours.

12. Cagliari Cruise Port

Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital, stands out as a cruise port seamlessly blending historical allure with scenic landscapes. Its integration within the city ensures visitors have straightforward access to the center and various amenities.

The port serves as a welcoming entrance to the sunny and temperate city, inviting exploration at any time of the year.

A brief journey from the port, Cagliari’s historic old town awaits. Its geographical layout offers a mix of gentle strolls and more vigorous walks.

A complimentary shuttle bus aids those looking to venture from their cruise ship directly to Piazza Matteotti, a hub near key transport links.

Alongside its historic and architectural sights, Cagliari’s coastlines boast expansive sandy beaches and inviting waters, ideal for leisure or aquatic activities.

Moreover, the city’s culinary scene is a highlight, featuring a fusion of Mediterranean flavors and Sardinian tradition, sure to delight any palate.

Before You Go…

Curious to see where luxury meets history in Italy? Dive into our exploration of the Top 10 Richest Cities in Italy .

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Italy Ports of Call: Where Cruise Ships Stop in Italy

• Ancona – The port city of Ancona is on the Adriatic Sea on the east coast of Italy, in the Marche region. Cruise ships from both the Costa Crociere Group and MSC Group regularly stop in Ancona, although it’s not a major port of call for most Mediterranean cruises. Right in Ancona there is evidence of both Roman and Greek settlements, and there is a hilltop cathedral in the city. The official Ancona cruise terminal website is here .
• Bari – Bari is a major city in the southern Italian region of Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot. It’s a big enough city that there’s plenty to do if it’s a stop on your cruise, even without leaving the area. Bari itself has an old section that’s nice to explore, several churches, and a castle that dates from the 12th century. But the main draw in this part of Italy isn’t the city: it’s the beach. The official Bari cruise terminal website is here . Search for Bari hostels if you need to stay the night
• Civitavecchia – The city of Civitavecchia may not be on your Italy to-do list, but this is the cruise port used for trips into Rome. You’ll find all the details you need to know in my article Rome Cruise Terminal: Where it Is and How to Get There .
• Genoa – Genoa’s port ranks at the top of the list in Italy when it comes to the amount of freight that comes in and out every year, but it’s also a popular port for cruise ships as well. In fact, Genoa is often the starting or ending point for an Italy cruise or a Mediterranean cruise, so rather than looking for shore excursions from Genoa you might just be looking for things to do in the city before or after your cruise. The historic center is beautiful, and along with a selection of pretty churches Genoa is also home to Europe’s largest aquarium. The official Genoa cruise terminal website is here . Search for Genoa hotels and Genoa hostels if you need to stay the night
• Livorno – As is the case with Civitavecchia listed above, the primary destinations people whose cruises stop in Livorno are headed for are inland – places like Florence and Pisa. But Livorno itself is perfectly lovely, if you want to spend your day there instead of taking a shore excursion into Tuscany a bit further (or if you have multiple days in port). The historic part of the city is ringed by a 16th century canal, and although the original cathedral dated to the late 1500s it was mostly rebuilt after WWII. The official Livorno cruise terminal website is here .
• Messina – The Sicilian port of Messina is the busiest in terms of passenger traffic, partly because of ferries back and forth from mainland Italy to the island of Sicily; but it’s also the port Mediterranean cruises use for shore excursions to Taormina and Mt. Etna. The official Messina cruise terminal website is here .
• Naples – Naples is home to one of Italy’s largest ports, although most people visiting the area for short periods head straight for the islands, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, or make day trips to Pompeii or Herculaneum rather than seeing the sights in Naples itself. Depending on how long you have in port, a day spent touring Naples is a great option (along with all those other great day trip options). The official Naples cruise terminal website is here . Search for Naples hotels if you need to stay the night
• Palermo – While Messina is typically the Sicilian port of call for visits to the eastern parts of the island, the western side of Sicily is more easily reached when cruises stop in Palermo. It’s one of Sicily’s major cities, and has many notable churches and historic sights, so it’s well worth spending time right in Palermo if the shore excursions don’t interest you. The official Palermo cruise terminal website is here . Search for Palermo hotels and Palermo hostels if you need to stay the night
• Portofino – Just down the coast from Genoa is the small resort town of Portofino. While massive cruise ships can’t get in close to Portofino, it’s still a relatively popular port of call. If the ship you’re on can’t get into the harbor, you’ll be ferried from the ship onto the land. There are similar towns dotting the coast around Portofino, most of which are picturesque and expensive.
• Portovenere – Portovenere is another small town along the Ligurian coast where the big cruise ships can’t get into the harbor, so if Portovenere is on your itinerary you’ll be ferried to the land from your ship. Portovenere is down the coast from the Cinque Terre, so a shore excursion to those five villages may be on your to-do list. Otherwise, the town of Portovenere itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (as are the Cinque Terre), with several churches and a castle to visit.
• Trieste – The city of Trieste is so close to the border it’s almost in Slovenia, which means that shore excursions could technically take place in two different countries if you were so inclined. Trieste itself is a pretty port city, with a beautiful main square, a hilltop castle, and a cathedral worth visiting. It’s also famously home to Italy’s illy coffee company, so be sure to have a cup before you leave. The official Trieste cruise terminal website is here . Search for Trieste hotels and Trieste hostels if you need to stay the night
• Venice – Venice has its own cruise terminal, despite not being a big city. It is, after all, a city built upon and surrounded by water. You’ll find all the details you need to know in my article Venice Cruise Terminal: Where it Is and How to Get There . Search for Venice hotels and Venice hostels if you need to stay the night

>> This post on the Walks of Italy blog lists how to get from three of Italy’s cruise ports (Civitavecchia, Livorno, & Naples) to the places you want to see nearby. photo from the Naples cruise terminal website

Guide to the Best Cruise Ports in Italy

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

Are you looking for the best cruise ports in Italy? In this guide, we will round up the best cruise ports in Italy, alongside all the relevant information you need to know such as the best things to do in each Italian cruise port and how to get there.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Any long time reader of the blog will know that I love cruising and perhaps my favorite place to cruise is Italy ! It really has something for everyone from history, food and culture to beaches. It is also great if you are cruising with small children as Italians generally love kids and is any easy place to go on a babymoon cruise  too.

So without further ado here is our port by port ultimate guide: 

Table of Contents

Best Cruise Ports in Italy

Bari cruise port.

Although Bari might not be as well known as other Italian cities such as Rome and Florence, it is actually the largest city in the region on Puglia, the heel of Italy. It is also a very popular stop on many cruise itineraries especially those on All Italian cruises or those doing a cruises that also take in Montenegro, and the Greek Islands (usually departing from Venice).

Bari Cruise port details: 

One of the things that I love about Bari Cruise post it that Bari is accessible from the Bari Cruise Port by foot.

In fact it is only a short walk from where most cruises dock to get to historic town centre – be warned it can be a bit industrial on arrival however. 

Things to Do Near Bari Cruise Port?

As Bari city is itself walkable from the port, it is quite a popular port to not go on a guided cruise excursion.

The short walk into Bari will take you to the historic centre which has in its centre a beautiful templar Cathedral.

Also the region of Puglia is home to the Slow Food Movement and you will get some absolutely amazing eats in the city.

The region of Puglia is famous for its olive oil and is a must try. Other than that you must try the regional speciality of Orchiette which is a very unique pasta dish that you really only get in Puglia. 

If you want to explore Bari, but would prefer to do an organised excursion I would certainly consider looking into something that takes in a food or culinary aspect such as the  Bari Street Food Tour

Shore Excursions from Bari Cruise Port

But if you want to do a shore excursion or head further afield from Bari Cruise port then some things you may wish to consider:

• Visit the Truli Houses of  Alberobello . Alberobello is a beautiful and picturesque town and is a must for any visit to Puglia. Truli Houses are a unique architecture of the Puglia region and a must for any Italy bucket list .
• Polignano – a beautiful beach town with a famous cave restaurant. 
• Matera – a beautiful hilltop city that is famed for being the setting for the James Bond Film No Time to Die as the city with Vespa’s grave.

You will find that many cruises around the Mediterranean will start, finish or at least visit the cruise port of Rome Civitavecchia. However the thing you need to know is that Rome is not a coastal city. Civitavecchia is the closest port to Rome but is not itself ion Rome. 

Whether you are starting, ending or just doing an excursion from Civitavecchia, it is worth pointing out that the port is actually relatively accessible and easy to get. 

While it is a very industrial port, you will have to get a bus to and from the port entrance to the ship, the town of Civitavecchia is very close and the train station (providing you don’t have too much luggage with you) is actually very walkable – and we have done this. 

The port is accessible by foot however there are few attractions in Civitavecchia itself.

Excursions from Civitavecchia Cruise Port

So what are the best excursions to take from Civitavecchia either through your ship or organised separately?

Well the cruise port of Civitavecchia has few attractions that warrant mentioning here. THErefore if you don’t want a ship you will be traveling from Civitavecchia. The main excursions people will take from Civitavecchia is obviously a day trip to  Rome .

Rome has some much on offer that I would recommend doing a tour on your own so you can pick exactly what you want to do. While there is a train station in Civitavecchia, the times and frequency can be temperamental so this one may be worth doing through the cruise ship. 

Some highlights of Rome obviously include: 

• the Vatican City
• The Colosseum 
• Pantheon  

Just be sure that if you are visiting any religious sites on your excursions that you know what the Italian church dress code is. 

Genoa Cruise Port – Best Cruise Ports in Italy

Genoa Cruise port details: 

If you are traveling on a Costa or MSC Cruise you will often find that Genoa is a point of disembarkation and embarkation.

Genoa (or Genova, as it’s also known) is surely one of Italy’s most underrated city destinations. This buzzing port city was one of Europe’s great seafaring superpowers and is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus (and pesto). There’s an embarrassment of riches here, but amazingly it’s relatively tourist-free.

One of the great things about the Genoa Cruise port is that the e port is located near to the redeveloped Old Port Area so is within easy walking distance providing you don’t have too much luggage with you. 

Note: if you have questions about how to pack for cruise travel be sure to check out our cruise packing guides: 

• Cruise Embarkation Day Packing List
• How to pack for a world cruise

Best Things to Do Near Genoa Cruise Port

If you want to explore the area of Genoa near the port this is completely possible to do on your own. Head first to the redeveloped Old Port area for Genoa’s main tourist attractions, as well as plenty of curiosities.

Walk along the promenade and you’ll come across pirate ships, museums, cafes, and a panoramic lift, but families should make a beeline for the Aquarium. It’s is the biggest in Europe, and it’s got sharks.

Grown-ups might be more interested in exploring Genoa’s architectural and gastronomic highlights. The old town area is a tangle of narrow medieval streets ripe for exploring.

San Lorenzo is the must-see church, and the UNESCO World Heritage site Strade Nuove is comprised of no less than 42 Renaissance and Baroque palaces!

Or if you just want to take a relaxing day by the sea then head to Boccadasse, the fisherman’s village, or catch the train out along the coast to one of the Italian Riviera’s many colourful towns. The famous Cinque Terre is just 1hr 40 minutes on the train.

Best Cruise Excursions from Genoa

However if you want to do something further afield than Genoa old town, you may want to consider booking a cruise excursions or organising your own. 

The best cruise shore excursions from Genoa include:

• Day Trip to Portofino
• Day Trip to Cinque Terre (although if your cruise also take in La Spezia this is much closer)

What to Eat in Genoa Cruise Port

The wider region of Liguria is famous for the quality of its olive oil, focaccia, and basil. There’s an Eataly outpost to keep foodies happy.

Written by The Mediterranean Traveller

What to do In La Spezia Cruise Port By Greta’s Travels :

La Spezia is quickly becoming one of the most popular cruise ports in Italy, thanks to its strategic location close to  Cinque Terre .

Cinque Terre is a National Park made up by the five towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore (hence the name  Cinque   Terre , or “Five Lands”) and is famous for the stunning hike with views over the sea that connects them.

What to Do in La Spezia If you Don’t want to Visit Cinque Terre

Excursions from livorno.

Fortress in Livorno Italy Cruise Port

The three main attractions from Livorno are:

The towns of Lucca and San Gimignano are also accessible from Livorno.  

Most cruise ships will organize cruise excursions to all  tof these places but are also doable by train providing you leave yourself enough time and you have a long enough port day (this differs by cruise so do be sure to check your cruise itinerary).

Florence for me is the biggest draw offering the most rounded experience. Here you can see David, the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio and have some amazing food. 

If it is your first time in Tuscany then Florence would definitely metope pick for a shore excursions. 

However if you would love to explore Sicily beyond Messina then there are lots of options.

However for me there is one place anyone day tripping from Messina should visit and that is Taormina.

Fans of the White Lotus series will be familiar with Taormina as the setting for season two of the show.

Taormina is a beautiful hillside town with Roman ruins, amazing food – try the local gelato, and local wines. It is really the quaintest Italian town to walk around and is a draw for many celebrities. 

However the other place that is very popular to visit from Messina is the famed Mount Etna. Most tours to Mount Etna will take you up towards the top of the Mountain, allow you to see the Silvestri Craters and take in the stunning views of the island. Some also include a trip to one of the many local vineyards. 

View of Pompeii

Naples Cruise Port is located centrally meaning it is very easy to access the city of Naples itself by foot. There is also a hop on hop off bus stop, located close to the terminal which is another great way to explore the area on your own without the need for a shore excursion. 

Excursions From Naples Cruise Port

Naples is actually one of my favorite Italian Cruise Ports as although Naples is not my favorite city, it is the gateway to so many amazing sites.

Pompeii, Herculaneum, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, and of course the island of Capri are all great choices for excursions and can be easily organized through the ship or independently.

And the one thing I love about all of these places is actually how close they are to Naples. In many of the other Italy cruise ports – I am looking at you Rome, there are long coach journeys involved in getting to your destination. Naples by comparison has all the excursions relatively close by. 

However I will note that if you are going to Naples in the summer, and plan to head down to the Amalfi Coast the traffic can be crazy. For this reason you may prefer a ship organised tour. 

And of course after any tour, the only way to finish your day in Naples is with  a proper Neopolitan Pizza – need I say more!

Palermo Cruise Port, Italy Cruise Ports

Palermo is a harbour side city so it’s easy to jump right off your cruise ship and explore on foot.

Any day in Palermo should start at the Cathedral of Palermo which is a fusion of Western, Islamic and Byzantine architecture. Tours of the Cathedral’s tombs, crypts and its roof terraces are available either onsite (€7 per person) or through your ship’s excursion team. When we were in port we opted to look around the main Cathedral, which is free, and then watch the world go by from a neighbouring cafe with gelato in hand.

Alongside the Cathedral the the ornate Palazzo dei Normanni museum, which has a beautiful central courtyard, and Palermo Archaeological Museum are also walkable from the cruise terminal.

Fans of the Godfather films will also not want to miss a tour of Italy’s largest Opera House The Teattro Massimo which was featured in scenes from the third movie.

If you enjoy testing local produce then Palermo also has daily food markets.  

Best Shore Excursions from Palermo Cruise Port?

Most people tend to stick to Palermo based shore excursions when in Palermo cruise port

Written by TinBox Traveller

Venice Cruise Port

View from Cruise Ship leaving Venice Cruise Port

Venice Cruise port details

Venice is one of the more confusing ports to embark from due to the fact there are several ports and lots of confusing and contradictory information information about curses in Venice – mainly because of the recent cruise ship ban. 

There are actually three difference places in Venice that cruises can dock in which are:

• Stazzione Marittima
• San Basilio
• Riva dei Sette Martiri

Be sure to check exactly which your location your ship leaves from. 

Bacino  Della  Stazione  Marittima in Venice has several piers at the port so find out which you are docked at and leave yourself plenty of time for embarkation. If you are cruising on a large ship this is the most likely embarkation day point. 

The San Basilio port usually has the smaller ships, river cruises and ferries that connect Venice to Croatia 

Riva dei Sette Martiri is where historically ships would dock and it is in walking distance to the St Marks Square but this is not a common embarkation anymore. Today this is used exclusively for yachts instead of cruise ships. 

Venice Airport to Cruise Port

You can get a taxi from Marco Polo Airport to the cruise terminal. It takes around 20 minutes and should cost no more than 40 Euros. The budget option is to take the airport bus. For those willing to splash more cash you can take a water taxi and get a scenic view of Venice. This however is the most costly method at around 100 Euros a trip.

If you are traveling to Venice’s other airport Treviso the best option is likely to be to take th airport bus.

Is the Venice cruise port accessible by foot? 

Venice is a pedestrianized city which means that it is a great city to explore by foot. Otherwise take the vaporetti and tour the city by boat. There really is no need to get a shore excursion around Venice if you don’t want to.

What to do near Venice Cruise Port

Basically, the cruise port is near to everything amazing in Venice. Obviously the most popular tourist sites in Venice are Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace and the Rialto Bridge! We also love just taking a Vaporetti around the city or perhaps one not visit one of Venice’s other island such as Murano or Burano. They are so colorful and make for amazing photographs.

What to Eat in Venice Cruise Port

Venice has some amazing food and so many feature regional staples such as rice and seafood!. The regional specialities are risotto, in particularly seafood risottos.

Why not consider taking a food tour to get to know the food better.

If you want coffee and cake, remember in Venice you pay a premium to sit while Venetians opt to stand at the bar.

Do cruise ships stop in Positano Italy?

What is your favorite italian cruise port.

Don’t fancy a cruise – check out this 10 day Italian itinerary for land!

Saturday 6th of April 2019

This is a great guide for cruisers. I wish I had had this when I did my Mediterranean Cruise. Also, totally agree about Naples. You BETTER have pizza.

Harmony, Momma To Go

Saturday 23rd of June 2018

First of all I love Italy - second of all I had no idea there were so many cruise ports! I need a mediteranea cruise in my life!

Thursday 21st of June 2018

WOW! These photos are amazing and what great information for your fellow cruisers! I've actually never been on a cruise, but have visited a few of these cities. Many others are on my list... #citytripping

Elizabeth (Wander Mum)

I’m so impressed with all your cruise trips. I’ve never done a cruise, can you believe it? I’ve been to loads of these places in Italy though! It is such a diverse country. I’d never get bored of exploring Italy. Thanks for linking #citytripping

California Globetrotter

Tuesday 19th of June 2018

Seems like doing a cruise and hitting up the best of the best is a great way to explore Italy! Would love to do a Mediterranean cruise one day! #CityTripping

Cruise ship in Venice || creative commons photo by Jean-Pierre Dalbera

Italy is a popular stop for cruise ships, either with all-Italy itineraries or as part of a Mediterranean cruise. The major ports of call in Italy are listed below, with a little information about the city and links to official cruise terminal websites (where available).

Ancona is in the Marche region on the eastern coast of Italy, on the Adriatic Sea. The city has ancient Roman and ancient Greek ruins, as well as a hilltop cathedral.

Ancona Port Authority

Bari is Puglia ‘s largest city, and the region’s most important port city. The historic center includes many churches worth visiting, as well as a 12th century castle, and if the weather is nice you’ll want to head for the beach. Many cruise ships stop in Bari, including Costa, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and P&O.

Bari & Levante Port Authority

Civitavecchia

Rome isn’t a port city, but it’s on many cruise itineraries. Civitavecchia is Rome’s cruise port, about 50 miles from Rome. It takes about 1-1.5 hours to get from the cruise terminal into the historic center, but transport is easy with a train station in Civitavecchia. Try to get on a faster train if you have limited time in port. As you can imagine, every major cruise company includes Civitavecchia on itineraries.

Rome Cruise Terminal

The busiest freight port in Italy is Genoa, and this busy port in Liguria is also a common starting- or ending-point for Mediterranean cruises. The city has a beautiful – and UNESCO-listed – historic center, and the waterfront is also home to Europe’s largest aquarium.

Genoa Port Authority

Florence is often a cruise stop, but – like Rome – the city is inland. Livorno is Florence’s cruise port, located 57 miles from the Tuscan capital and just under 15 miles from Pisa . Livorno itself has a 16th century canal surrounding its historic center.

Livorno Port Authority

Messina sits at the tip of Sicily that’s nearest to mainland Italy, and so is the main port connecting the island with the rest of the country. Ferries are constantly in motion back and forth, but larger cruise ships use Messina as the port of call to get to nearby Taormina (32 miles away) and Mt. Etna (66 miles away).

Messina Port Authority

Naples is a major port city for Italy, but most cruise visitors use Naples as the jumping-off point for shore excursions to the nearby Amalfi Coast , Sorrento, islands like Capri, or the excavations of Pompeii. Naples itself has plenty to offer the intrepid traveler, though (it’s one of my favorite cities), especially the excellent collection at the National Archaeological Museum.

Naples Port Authority

The port of Palermo on the northern side of Sicily gives you easy access to the western part of the island. It’s one of the main connections from mainland Italy to Sicily, with regular ships from Naples, Genoa, and Livorno.

Palermo Port Authority

The tiny town of Portofino is a gem on the Italian Riviera , but its harbor is so small that the bigger cruise ships can’t get in. Some ships will ferry passengers in to Portofino on smaller boats, others will dock in nearby Santa Margherita Ligure and offer shore excursions to Portofino.

Portofino Marina

Portovenere

Just south of the Cinque Terre is the Ligurian town of Portovenere, where the harbor is also small enough that the large cruise ships can’t get close enough to dock. Again, you’ll be ferried to town on a smaller boat, or the ship will divert to a larger port nearby and you’ll have an option for a shore excursion to Portovenere.

La Spezia & Portovenere Port Authority

Trieste has long been an important regional port city, although it hasn’t always been part of Italy. The Slovenian border isn’t far away, so if your cruise itinerary includes a stop in Trieste your shore excursions could venture into a couple different countries.

Trieste Port Authority

Despite Venice ‘s fragility, it’s been a popular cruise port for decades (and yes, it could be argued that so much cruise traffic is partly responsible for the city’s fragility). There has been recent talk of building a new cruise terminal island away from the main Venetian islands, which would probably be a good thing. For the time being, the cruise terminal is right in the heart of the historic city, a few steps from the train station.

Venice Cruise Terminal

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Home » Italy Cruises » Italy Cruise Ports Map

Home » Italy Cruises » Italy Cruise Ports Map

Italy Cruise Ports Map

Explore Italian Port Cities with a Mediterranean Cruise Around Italy

Italy cruises are a lovely way to travel around Italy. See all of Italy by sea in one trip. Forget about packing and unpacking and moving from one hotel to another. The cruise ship is your floating hotel.  Visiting Italy’s ports will allow you to experience the different Italian regions , explore its famous art cities, and taste the Italian culture region by region.

When you cruise to Italy’s ports you’ll sample the distinct areas so you’ll know where to return for your next trip to Italy .

Below is a map of Italy’s cruise ports of call. The larger ones like Rome, Venice, Naples, Livorno, and Genoa are visited by the large cruises lines. Smaller luxury cruises also visit the smaller Italian ports. Whichever Italy cruise vacation itinerary you choose you will be sure to enjoy the Italian ports on a cruise around Italy .

Agrigento is located on Sicily’s southern coast. It is the site of some of the best preserved and largest ancient Greek Temples. Sicily was the center of the Magna Grecia . At that time Hellenistic culture flourished, which included the worship of many Gods. The various Temples here dedicated to these Gods date back to the 6th century BC.

If you are interested in ancient Greek and Ancient Roman history then you’ll certainly enjoy a tour during your Italy cruise tour to Agrigento.

For Italy cruises that include Sicily ports of call click here .

Amalfi is a town located in southern Italy’s Campania region along the world famous Amalfi Coast. It is one of Italy’s original maritime republics.

Amalfi is a beautiful resort destination. Its small town is charming. The natural beauty is unparalleled.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Amalfi click here .

Ancona is located on the Adriatic Seas in the  Marche  region. Right in Ancona there is evidence of both Roman and Greek settlements. The hilltop cathedral in the city is a popular destination.

Ancona is not very popular with international tourists. As a result, you’ll find an authentic Italian experience.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Ancona click here .

Bari is a major city in the southern Italian region of Puglia . Located in the heel of Italy’s boot, Bari’s charm is the the confluence of many cultures that during the centuries have melted into a unique culture.

Bari’s centro storico, its old historic center, is nice to wander. And the Bari art museum is full of treasures from ancient Roman, Greek, and Ottoman inhabitants. There are several churches. In one you’ll find the skulls of those massacred by the Ottomans. The castle in Bari dates to the 12th century.

Also, there are beautiful beaches on Bari’s Adriatic coast.

Bari is a common port of call on Adriatic cruise itineraries. For Italy cruises that include port of call in Bari click here .

Located on the Mediterranean island of Sardinia (Sardegna), Cagliari was the capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia from 1324 to 1720.  And also from 1798 to 1815.  In 1861 Sardinia joined the Kingdom of Italy.

Cagliari is an important regional cultural, educational, political and artistic center. It is known for its distinct and diverse Art Nouveau architecture, vibrant nightlife and several monuments.

The old part of the city (called Castello, the castle) lies on top of a hill, with a wonderful view of the Gulf of Cagliari (also known as Angels Gulf). You’ll find lots of Western Mediterranean cruises that include Sardinia and Cagliari.

For Italy cruises that include Cagliari click here.

Civitavecchia Rome Cruise Port

Rome’s cruise port Civitavecchia is located in the Lazio region. It is located about 90 minutes outside of Rome’s historic center (centro storico).

Cruises from Rome that sail around the Western Mediterranean go to France, Spain, Sicily and Mediterranean islands. Cruises from Rome to the Eastern Medterranean sail around Italy to the Greek Isles, Turkey, and Venice.

There are plenty of pre cruise and post cruise all inclusive Rome tour options .

If your cruise passes through Rome for the day you’ll find affordable Rome shore excursions to the Vatican Museum and other Rome sightseeing highlights .

Crotone is a city located in the Calabria region. Its position is in the Ionian Sea.

Crotone was founded around 700 BC by the ancient Greeks. It is was known as the Achaean colony of Croton. During the ancient Greek Magna Grecia Crotone flourished. The literature from the day describes the character of its inhabitants having formidable physical strength combined with simple sobriety of their lives.

When visiting Crotone a few sightseeing highlights include the National Archaeological Museum and for kids and adults the Antiquarium di Torre Nao is a favorite southern Italy destination. There are also several art galleries.

For Italy cruises that include Crotone click here .

Gaeta is located south of Rome in the region of Lazio, on the Riviera di Ulisse. It is a fishing and oil seaport. It is surrounded by a national park.

The Italians have summer homes here along the beach. Tiberius’ Villa at Sperlonga is close to Gaeta.

In town the sightseeing highlight is the Aragonese-Angevine Castle. The churches show off southern Italy’s flair for the Gothic and Baroque styles.

In the summer evenings Italians enjoy a passeggiata.  Enjoy a the local seafood, an espresso, and the local gelato!

For Italy cruises that include post of call in Gaeta click here .

Genoa is located in Liguria on northern Italy’s Mediterranean coast. Genoa is one of Italy’s original maritime republics.

Genoa’s historic center is beautiful. There is a selection of pretty churches and an art museum. If you are touring Italy with your kids they will love visiting Europe’s largest aquarium in Genoa.

Genoa is close to the Italian Riviera. Destinations like the Cinque Terre, Portofino, and Santa Margherita attract many visitors.

Cruises that include Genoa on the itinerary often permit embarkation and disembarkation. Pre-cruise and post-cruise vacations include visiting the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre and the Dolomites.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Genoa click here .

Livorno is located the Tuscany region. It is the port of call for Florence and Tuscany’s many popular towns. It is also close to Pisa and Lucca. You may even visit Cinque Terre from Livorno. Other popular destination include San Gimignano and Volterra.

Livorno is known as the Venice of the Mediterranean because of its canals that run through the city.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Livorno click here .

The Sicilian port of Messina is the busiest of Italian ports.  The traffic between Calabria and Messina is the source of most of the passenger traffic.

Cruise passengers typically head south on shore excursions to Taormina and Mt. Etna.

Messina is famous for its citrus fruits. Zesty lemons, juicy mandarin oranges, tasty olives and rich wines are all grown around Messina. Its art museum includes important paintings by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina.

For Italy cruises that include post of call in Messina click here .

Naples cruise port is located in the southern Italy region Campania . The region is most famous for its many beautiful destinations and delicious food.

Naples captures everyone’s imagination. It is home of the Pizza Margherita. The Naples Archaeology Museum is the best museum of Western Civilization.

Drive around the Bay of Naples to Mt Vesuvius. Visit the ancient Roman archaeological sites in Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Stabiae.

Enjoy the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and Capri.

Its rich cultural history makes this city an Italy cruise sightseeing highlight. For more information about the Naples port information click here .

Families, friends, and groups traveling together will love our Naples shore excurison options and low group prices .

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Naples click here .

Palermo is one of Sicily’s major cities and its capital.  The city was founded by the  Phoenicians around 734BC. The mix of cultural influences is evident in Palermo’s unique architecture, music, culinary traditions and other sightseeing highlights.

Palermo’s Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque churches and its historic sights are well worth visiting. The cathedral in Monreale and Cefalu are also close. The closest Greek Temple is in Segesta.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Palermo click here .

Just down the coast from Genoa, in the region of Liguria, is the picture perfect postcard town Portofino.

Many small and mid size cruise ships include Portofino on their cruise itinerary. If the ship you’re on can’t get into the harbor, you’ll be ferried from the ship to the land. The “fine port” is typically full of yachts hosting the rich and famous so be sure to dress the part.

Santa Margherita, located just down the road, is another popular Italian Riviera vacation destination.

For Italy cruises that include Portofino click here .

Portovenere

Portovenere is the quintessential Italian small port. It is located along Northern Italy’s Ligurian coast, south of the Cinque Terre.

Small and mid size ships visit Portovenere. The larger cruise ships that visit this area dock in La Spezia.

There is plenty to enjoy around Portovenere. Hike up to the castle. Visit the churches and shop the local stores. A “shore excursion” from Portovenere to Cinque Terre is easily done by taking the water ferry in Portovenere. The ferry will stop in four of the five Cinque Terre hamlets so you may get off and on the boat to visit these seaside hamlets which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site (as is Portovenere).

For Italy cruises that include Portovenere click here .

Ravenna in the Emilia Romagna region is described as the city of mosaics. It was Rome’s Western Capital and the Byzantine Empire’s eastern Capital. The city’s long Roman and Byzantine history contributes to the beautiful artwork you will find here.

The city has eight UNESCO World Heritage monuments. This designation is due to the number of buildings and structures with renowned 5th century mosaic work.

Ravenna is located close to Venice. Because the Venice cruise port is slowly being phased out many Venice cruises actually embark and disembark in Ravenna.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Ravenna click here .

Italian cruise port Rimini is located on the Adriatic Sea. It is one of Italy’s most famous seaside resorts. It is located on the Adriatic Riviera south of Venice. It is rich with cultural history. It was inhabited by the Etruscans, Umbrians, Greeks, Gauls and Romans. In modern history Federico Fellini, the great Italian movie director, may be its most famous son. Its beaches are among the finest in Italy.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Salerno click here .

Located in Sicily Siracusa was once described by Cicero as “the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all.” This 2,700 year-old city played a key role in ancient times.

Siracusa was founded by Ancient Greek Corinthians. It later became part of the Roman Republic. Then it joined the Byzantine Empire.

Siracusa was one of the major powers of the Mediterranean. It exerted influence over the entire Magna Grecia area of which it was the most important city.

Today it is a lovely city to stroll around. There are archaeological sites with an ancient Greek Theater. Here you’ll breath 3,000 years of Western civilization.

For Italy cruises that include Siracusa click here .

Savona is an Italian port located 30 miles west of Genoa  It is about 100 miles from Nice, on the French Riviera. Between them is the Italian Riviera.

Savona was a ship building industrial port. Christopher Columbus farmed land in the area while chronicling his journeys.

Today you’ll find many Western Mediterranean cruises that include Savona on their itinerary. Here you can enjoy the Ligurian beaches or do some sightseeing.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Savona click here .

Spezia (La Spezia)

La Spezia is located in northern Italy just north of Tuscany in the region of Liguria.  This Italian port allows Italy cruise travelers to visit the popular northern Tuscan towns of Carrara and Pietrasanta.  Art lovers always love these two towns.

From La Spezia it is a short trip by train to the wildly popular Cinque Terre located along the Ligurian Coast.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in La Spezia click here .

Taormina (Giardini Naxos)

Taormina has been a popular tourist destination for thousands of years. It is located in the hills above Sicily’s coast in the shadows of Mt Etna.

Below Taormina is the popular Sicilian beach in Giardini Naxos.

From Taormina there is an aerial tramway down to the Ionian sea. These beaches are favorites because of the warm Mediterranean sea water and high salt content.

The ancient Greek Theater overlooking Mt Etna is a famous Taormina post card picture. It is still used for concerts, opera, and theater performances. Of course this site’s archaeological merits are without comparison.  The theater’s location and its structure are simply harmonic.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Taormina click here .

Trapani juts out into the Mediterranean sea on Sicily’s northern coast.

The Greek Temples in Segesta are a short distance. They are of course a popular Trapani shore excursion destination.

After the Greeks Carthage seized control of the city in 260 BC. Then they ceded it to Rome in 241 BC following the Battle of the Aegates in the First Punic War.

Various ancient legends tell of mythical origins for the city. In the first legend, Trapani stemmed from the sickle which fell from the hands of the goddess Demeter while she was looking for her daughter Persephone, who had been kidnapped by Hades. The second myth features Saturn, god of the sky, who eviscerated his father Cronus with a sickle which, falling into the sea, created the city. In ancient times Saturn was the god-protector of Trapani. Today Saturn’s statue stands in a piazza in the center of the city.

For Mediterranean cruises that include port of call in Trapani click here .

The northern Italian city Trieste in the Friuli region. It is a secret gem.

Trieste is on the border of Slovenia.

Trieste is charming like all the towns along the Dalmatian Coast and Italy’s Adriatic coast. There is the classic castle, square, and cathedral. All are notable while strolling around.

illy coffee is located here. Compare the coffee of Trieste to Torino , Rome, and Naples while cruising among Italian ports.

For Italy cruises that include port of call in Trieste click here .

Venice located in the Veneto region is one of Italy’s four original maritime republics.

The days of the cruise from Venice are coming to an end.  You’ll still cruise from Venice. But the route will not include the main lagoon. Cruising by St Mark’s square will be a thing of the past.

Venice cruises typically include ports of call along the Dalmatian Coast. Then the itinerary goes east to Turkey and the Greek Isles. Or the itinerary cruises around Italy to all the great Italian ports on the Amalfi coast like Sorrento where you may visit Pompeii, Capri, and Naples. A Venice cruise to Rome or Barcelona is the classic itinerary.

Check out all the Italy cruise vacation package deals .

Call us today 800-227-1577 for more information about Italy cruises.

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Livorno (Italy) Cruise Port Guide: Review (2023)

Ultimate guide to the port of Livorno for cruises in 2023: where ships dock, top things to do, on shore excursions and on your own, how to get around, shopping, and restaurants

By: Editor-in-Chief Updated: June 1, 2023

Florence and Pisa are two top destinations close to Livorno and the main reason why ships call at Livorno port when on a cruise in the Mediterranean.

In fact, many cruise lines list the port as Florence/Pisa (Livorno) and the overwhelming majority of cruise passengers will explore these jewels of Tuscany when docking for the day.

Besides these world-renowned cities, you may also explore other treasures of Tuscany such as Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, Volterra, or Cinque Terre. All these cities are 30 to 90 minutes away by bus, car, or train.

• Where is Livorno
• Where cruise ships dock

Shuttle bus

• Map of Livorno port and city
• What to see and do
• Top highlights close to Livorno
• How to explore Livorno
• Shore excursions (Shorex)
• Get around and discover on your own
• Attractions in Livorno city

Sightseeing in Livorno

• Shops and shopping
• Local cuisine and restaurants
• Beyond Livorno
• When and how

Because Florence (the main highlight and attraction close by) is 56 miles (90 km) from the Livorno port, taking slightly over 1 hour to get there on a shore excursion, cruise ships usually stay in port as long as 12 hours. This allows cruise passengers to explore most of the highlights nearby at leisure and even some attractions on your own.

For those that prefer to stay in port, there is plenty of time to explore almost all the attractions in the city of Livorno. Although some savvy cruisers that have been in Livorno endless times may prefer to stay onboard when calling at the Livorno port, a walk around the old city can be a delight not to be missed.

Where is Livorno and the cruise port

Livorno is the third-largest port in Italy and the cruise gateway to Tuscany. The port city is on the northwest coast of Italy, in the Tyrrhenian Sea, which is part of the Mediterranean. Livorno port is, together with Venice and Civitavecchia (Rome), one of the most visited ports on cruises in Italy.

Livorno is a port of call, meaning that ships visit the port for the day. Very seldom cruise ships stay overnight in port. On average, 700.000 cruise passengers visit Livorno port every year.

How far is Livorno port from top destinations

Pisa and Lucca are the closest highlights and very easy to explore on your own. Florence is the most famous destination highlight for cruise passengers and is easy to get to by train.

Siena and San Gimignano are a bit farther away but not to be missed and better to explore with shore excursions. Volterra is not far but not easy to explore on your own unless you rent a car. To explore Livorno's destinations visit our page with all reviews and port guides.

Travel time from Livorno to Tuscany's destinations

Where cruise ships dock and cruise terminals.

Livorno port is vast, with 2 different docking areas, and numerous quays that can accommodate up to 11 ships. The Porto Industriale is the largest area ( A on the map below ) with 3 piers and cruise terminals. Cruise passengers are not allowed to walk in port but there is a shuttle bus at the pier and also taxis. All cruise terminals in the Porto Industriale have the following services and amenities:

• Tourist Information
• Tour Services
• Sightseeing

The Porto Mediceo is mainly used by small and luxury cruise lines. It has two distinct docking spots. One is within walking distance of the city center ( B on the map below ). If your ship is docked in the farthest berths ( C on the map below ) there will be a shuttle bus as well. You will only find a few services and amenities at Porto Mediceo.

Unless you are cruising on a small luxury cruise ship, which may dock within walking distance of the city center, the port authorities will provide a shuttle bus. On most cruise lines this is a complimentary service but you may be charged €5 by some cruise lines.

For over a decade the shuttle bus drop-off is on Piazza del Municipio where you will find close by most services and amenities, including a taxi stand, Tourist Info, sightseeing, public buses, ATM, currency exchange.

► Explore: At The Pier and Terminal Find out all you need to know about the piers and terminals in Livorno cruise port. How to get to town, which services and amenities are available, and where to find them. Learn More ►

Livorno Port Map

Download the map above, with all info on this article. Take this port guide with you, when on a cruise in the Mediterranean. The port guide is formated for different devices. Click to choose: SmartPhone | Tablet | Desktop .

Things to see and do on a cruise to Livorno port

Livorno is a cruise port with so many attractions nearby that you will have to decide which to visit and those you will have to skip. With 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tuscany, it is impossible to visit more than a couple in one day.

Cruise passengers interested in museums will find in Florence the best renaissance art in the Uffizi Gallery, the Bargello, or the Galleria dell’Accademia. But there are also must-see museums in Pisa and Siena.

Those interested in religious sites and Jewish heritage have an extraordinary number of churches, cathedrals, baptisteries, and the synagogues in Florence, Livorno, and Pisa to choose from.

The quaint ambiance of Lucca, San Gimignano and Volterra is ideal for those that enjoy strolling small historic towns .

Wherever you decide to go, do not miss the opportunity to savor the culinary delights of Tuscany. And if shopping is on your mind, you will find amazing shops in Florence but also in Lucca and Siena.

Top highlights, sights, and attractions in Livorno and Tuscany

For reviews of specific highlights and attractions of each destination do click on read more on the following list:

• Florence Top attractions: Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Cathedral and Bell Tower, Baptistery of Saint John, Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio, Galleria dell’Accademia and Michelangelo's David, Palazzo Pitti, Medici Chapels, San Miniato al Monte ... read more »
• Pisa Top attractions: Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, the Baptistery, Museum of Sinopias and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, the Piazza dei Cavalieri, the Synagogue ... read more »
• Lucca Top attractions: Cathedral, the Basilica of St. Frediano and the Church of Saint Michael, the Amphitheater Square, the Piazza Napoleone, Via Fillungo, Torre Guinigi and Torre delle Ore, the Mansi Palace Painting Museum and the Pfanner Palace ... read more »
• Siena Top attractions: Cathedral, Catherin's Basilica of St. Dominic, Piazza del Campo, the Civic Museum and Torre del Mangia, the Pinacoteca Nazionale, Piazza and Palazzo Salimbeni, the Synagogue ... read more »
• San Gimignano Top attractions: the Collegiata (Cathedral), the Palazzo Comunale, Torre Grossa and Salvucci Tower, Palazzo del Podesta, Museum of Sacred Art, the Cathedral Square and the Cistern Square ... read more »
• Volterra Top attractions: the Cathedral, the Baptistery of Saint John and the Church of Saint Francis, the Etruscan Museum, the Sacred Art Museum, the Pinacoteca and Civic Museum, and the Alabaster Museum, the Roman Theatre ... read more »
• Cinque Terra Top attractions: Riomaggiore, Monterosso and Vernazza, . read more »
• Livorno city highlights Top attractions: Duomo, Via Madonna, Venice Quarter, Fattori's Museum, the Royal Canal and the Mercato Centrale ... read more »

How to explore Livorno and Tuscany on a cruise

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, cruise passengers may only be allowed to explore the top destinations of Livorno if booked on a shore excursion. Regardless of public health concerns, shore excursions are advisable to discover some highlights.

In fact, shore excursions are particularly suitable when a good guide is required or to properly explore sites that can be time-consuming to discover on your own or with public transportation. Shore excursions are advisable if you want to visit both Pisa and Florence, or Siena and San Gimignano.

Even so, cruisers should consider traveling to Pisa, Lucca, or Florence independently. There are a few possible and good ways to discover Livorno and the jewels of Tuscany:

• Book a shore excursion
• Sightseeing services to Pisa and Florence
• On your own with public transport (train and/or bus)
• On foot to the attractions of Livorno port city
• Sightseeing services in Livorno city

Regardless of where or how you decide to explore Livorno and its attractions, you should have euros (€), the only currency accepted in Italy. Learn more about all money matters , including where to find ATMs, banks, or currency exchange offices.

Shore excursions, tours and transfers

All cruise lines offer many and diverse shore excursions in Livorno to all top destinations and highlights. Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean offer as many as 24 shore excursions . Carnival lists 12 shore excursions . Norwegian Cruise Line has available 25 shore excursions . Oceania Cruises organizes 67 shore excursions , and Princess has 46 excursions available.

There are also excursions offered by the following reputable private online services and local tour operators:

• Shore Trips
• Shore Excursions Group
• Tours by Locals
• Venture Ashore
• Private Shore Trips

Low-cost transfers to Florence, Pisa, and Lucca

TuscanyBus is a local company offering safe, easy, and affordable transfers between Livorno and 3 gems of Tuscany: Florence, Pisa and Lucca. Buses depart from Piazza Municipio, right by the shuttle bus stop from the cruise port. TuscanyBus guarantees the return to the cruise port on time.

Be aware that this service is not a guided tour but just a straightforward transfer although you will be able to download a map-guide. Prices vary between €17 (Pisa transfer), €30 (Lucca), and €37 (Florence). It is advisable to book on-line, directly with TuscanyBus .

How to travel from Livorno to Tuscany's destinations on your own

If you like to explore highlights on your own, it is very easy to travel by rail from Livorno to Pisa, Lucca and Florence. You can also get to Pisa by bus . By contrast, it is not as easy to travel to Siena by rail requiring train transfers. To get to San Gimignano or Volterra from Livorno you will need to travel by rail and bus.

Travel by rail and bus in Livorno

The Railway Station in Livorno. Have in mind that the shuttle bus from the Livorno port to Piazza Municipio takes between 10 and 20 minutes and that from here the bus to the Railway Station takes at least another 20 minutes. Click here to learn how to travel by rail from Livorno port »

Train to Florence There are 7 trains departing Livorno between 8:00 am and 11:00 am (including weekends). Click here to find out how to explore Florence on your own when on a cruise »

Train or Bus to Pisa The bus to Pisa departs on the hour from Piazza Repubblica, which is a 5-minute walk from the cruise port shuttle bus stop on Piazza Municipio. The bus station in Pisa is 20 minutes walk (flat and pleasant) from the major attractions. The train to Pisa departs Livorno every 15 minutes. The railway station in Pisa is 20 minutes walk (flat and pleasant) from the major attractions. Click here to discover how to travel to Pisa »

Train to Lucca Departs Livorno every 30 minutes - you will need to change train in Pisa. The railway station in Lucca is 15 minutes walk (pleasant and flat) from main attractions. Click here to find out how to travel to Lucca »

Train to Siena You will need to change Train in Empoli. Train Station in Siena is 2.3km (1.5 miles) uphill from the main attractions - bus or taxi are advisable. Click here to learn how to travel to Siena »

Train and Bus to San Gimignano You will need to change Train in Empoli and again in Poggibonsi where you will get bus #130 towards San Gimignano. The bus station in San Gimignano is 5 minutes walk from the main attractions. Click here to discover how to travel to San Gimignano »

Train and Bus to Volterra You will need to change Train in Pontedera where you will get bus #500 towards Volterra (bus departs next to Train Station). The bus station in Volterra is right by main attractions. Be aware: To be back in Livorno in time you must get on bus #780 departing Volterra at 2:35 pm towards Saline, where you will get on the 3:15 pm train to Livorno arriving at 4:35 pm. Click here to learn how to travel to Volterra »

To find out all about public transportation in Livorno and how to discover the city on your own and travel to Top Destinations: Click here to find out how to get around in Livorno cruise port  »

Renting a car in Livorno port

Florence, Pisa and Lucca are so easy to get to by rail or bus that renting a car is a bit of a waste of time. By contrast, renting a car is the best way to explore Volterra, San Gimignano, and Volterra. Click here to read more about renting a car in Livorno cruise port »

Taxis and public buses

Cruise passengers that wish to travel on your own should look into using public buses and or taxis. Traveling by public bus is relatively straight forward. Learn more about how to use public buses in Livorno. There are always taxis available at all the piers of Livorno port. However, it can be much cheaper to get a taxi in the city center next to the shuttle bus drop-off. Click here to read more about traveling by taxi in Livorno cruise port »

What to do in Livorno when calling at the port for one day

Livorno is an industrial port with a population of 165.00 and, at first sight, may not seem to be the most adorable town in Tuscany. Yet, the City Centre has a few interesting charming attractions. Surely, even the savvier cruiser that has visited major highlights like Florence, Pisa, Lucca or Siena will discover delightful places in Livorno to enjoy.

Quartieri Venezia

Photo © IQCruising.com

Amongst the most interesting sites, the cruise visitor should not miss the Duomo (Cathedral), the Via Madonna , the Mercato Centrale (Central Market), the Teatro Mascagni , the Fosso Reale , the Old and the New Forts, a couple of squares (namely the Piazza Repubblica - claimed to be the widest bridge in Europe) and, last but not least, the Synagogue .

Just around the corner from the city center, the district known as Quartieri Venezia is in itself an interesting area of renaissance past to explore.

Between one and two miles south of the City Centre, the cruise visitor will find tourist attractions such as the Museo Civico Giovanni Fattori , the Acquario Comunale Giacinto Cestoni , the Passeggiata Mascagni or the Museum of Natural History . Explore Livorno's top highlights »

Main attractions in Livorno city

Here is a list of the 12 top main attractions for cruise passengers in the city of Livorno:

• St Francis Cathedral (Duomo) - Read full review »
• St Catherine's Church - Read full review »
• Via della Madonna (Madonna's Street) - Read full review »
• Venice Quarter (Quartieri Venezia) - Read full review »
• Royal Canal (Fosso Reale) - Read full review »
• Central Market (Mercato Centrale) - Read full review »
• Fattori's Museum (Museo Fattori) - Read full review »
• Livorno's Aquarium (Aquario Comunale) - Read full review »
• Four Moors (Monumento dei Quattro Mori) - Read full review »
• Goldoni's Theatre (Teatro Goldoni) - Read full review »
• New Synagogue (Sinagoga) - Read full review »
• Mascagni's Promenade (Terrazza Mascagni) - Read full review »

Besides these top attractions in Livorno, the city is known for its many and stunning churches , magnificent squares , broad streets . When meandering Livorno, don't miss historical landmarks like the Fortezza Vecchia and Fortezza Nuova, the Palazzo Comunale or the Cisternino.

The Fattori's Museum is a highlight of Livorno, but there are a few other museums the cruise visitor may also enjoy such as the Modigliani House or the Sacred Art Museum.

Exploring the city center on your own is easy and, being absolutely flat, physically undemanding. Since 2009, City Sightseeing buses operate in Livorno and tour the city with multilingual audio guides.

Cruising the canals of Livorno on a Batello (small barge) has become another attractive way of exploring the city. Wherever, and whatever, you decide to explore always keep in mind that Livorno was heavily bombed during WWII and some areas clearly show the 'scares' of devastation. Explore Sightseeing »

Cruising Livorno's canals on a sightseeing boat.

Keeping in touch

Besides exploring the sites and attractions of Livorno, cruise passengers may use the time in port to get in touch with family and friends. The post office is in the city center, there are quite a few free wi-fi spots, public phones are available but you really need to find out how to use them, and there are a few places that handle DHL and UPS. Read more about how to keep in touch »

Livorno Shops and Shopping Streets

Livorno doesn't have extravagant designer shops, but you will find typically affordable brands ranging from Zara to United Colors of Benetton. And also, small boutiques that display labels like Trussardi or Stefanell. Be aware that many shops close between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, most are closed on Sundays and that some shops are also closed on Monday mornings.

There are two main shopping streets in Livorno: Via Grande and Via Cairoli (the latter on the more upscale end). If looking for basic or emergency stuff (like pharmacies , toiletries or baby-children needs) it is on Via Grande that you will find most of what you may need.

On this main street, the cruise passenger will also find a few coffee shops and the best ice cream (gelato) in town. Close to the Porto Mediceo at the West end of Via Grande, an Enoteca (Wine Bar) is the place to go if looking for a quick bite or a light lunch . For a selection of the best shops: click here to explore Livorno shopping .

Livorno's flavors and restaurants

Only a few cruise passengers choose to stay onboard when visiting Livorno port and most eat lunch in one of the many venues cruise ships offer. But if you enjoy tasting local flavors, Livorno is an exceptional port to savor genuine Italian cuisine.

The "Cacciucco" (a soup made of various sea creatures, wine, tomato, hot peppers, and garlic) is undoubtedly the most famous local recipe served at the Editor's favorite restaurants . But there are many other culinary delighst to excite your taste buds.

Livorno has a good number of unpretentious restaurants with very nice home-cooked food, where locals have lunch . If you prefer a more upscale decor and service there are excellent traditional restaurants .

For those preferring a light meal or a quick bite , there are many coffee shops and a few commendable Enotecas (wine bars serving light snacks and wines by the glass. Cruise passengers exploring off the beaten track attractions should look into lesser-known, or off the beaten track but excellent restaurants.

To see and do beyond Livorno's city center

Cruise passengers not wishing to spend a full day exploring the highlights of Livorno port will find a few alternatives in the southern outskirts of Livorno.

The small towns of Antignano and Ardenza (and the Sanctuary of Montenero close by) are just between 3 and 5 miles away. Farther south (30 miles), the “Etruscan Coast” offers interesting Eco-adventures alternatives to the more traditional, cultural and historical aspect of Tuscany.

Livorno's activities and beaches

For those cruising with children or not in the mood for historical excursions, there are great beaches and watersports, including scuba and windsurfing , close by. South of the city center, not that far from the port shuttle stop at Piazza Municipio, there are a few nice “ Bagni ” (Bathing Establishments) or serviced beach clubs not to be ignored.

Just 3 miles north of the city's center, Tirrenia is a 20-mile long strip of sandy beaches ending in Marina the Pisa. This is the place to go if sunbathing and sea splashing are in your plans for a day in Livorno. On this strip, there are dozens of beach clubs to choose from.

Livorno's outdoors

Besides a few nice gardens surrounding a couple of churches, you will have to walk quite a while to enjoy the few parks that Livorno has to offer. Undoubtedly, the most famous outdoor setting in Livorno is Terrazza Mascagni or Mascagni's Promenade , which was named after the famous opera composer born in the city.

Off the Beaten Track

The Mercatino Americano is often highlighted in many a travel guide but it is now a shadow of its former appeal since it changed to an off the beaten track location. What used to be a 'street market' on Piazza XX Septembre become a series of stands in storehouses next to the entrance of the Porto Industriale.

Seldom mentioned onboard cruise ships - and never offered on tours - destinations such as Montecatini , Pistoia , Prato and Vinci (the birth town of Leonardo da Vinci) are close enough to be explored whilst calling at Livorno for a day. These and many other small jewels in Tuscany are alternative destinations for those that have visited Livorno and its most famous highlights.

When and how to cruise to Livorno

The Editor has visited Livorno in all seasons for over 20 years and has found that there are always charming aspects to enjoy in the city and in Tuscany almost all year round. However, different cruise lines call at Livorno port in different seasons, and the weather varies a lot. Click here to discover more about the weather, itineraries and the best time to cruise to Livorno port .

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The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, excursion or tour of Livorno. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

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The 7 Best Cruises for Experiencing Italy’s Scenic and Culinary Bounty

The best italy cruises bring travelers off the beaten path to explore some of the mediterranean country’s less-visited treasures..

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Visiting Sicily is a must on any Italy sailing.

Courtesy of Flo/Unsplash

When it comes to Italy cruises, your best bet is to go with a small-ship sailing. Big ships tend to do the tried and true— Rome , Venice , Florence , Naples—not that there’s anything wrong with seeing the Colosseum, St. Mark’s Square, Michelangelo’s David , and the ruins of Pompeii . But on the best cruises around Italy, there’s opportunity to go deeper and at a slower pace.

You’ll often still be able to check off major marquee attractions, while at the same time admiring the pastel-colored villages and hairpin roadways along the Amalfi Coast, the unspoiled landscapes of Puglia, the drama of Sicily, or the dreamy Ligurian coast. In addition to visiting off-the-beaten-path places, small ships tend to linger in ports, with the best itineraries including late evening or overnight stays. That way, there’s time to sample the dining scene—key for cruisers like me who like to try the local pasta dish in every town.

The best time for an Italy cruise

The main season for Italy cruises is April to October, coinciding with weather that increases the allure of beaches and outdoor attractions, even if visiting ancient ruins in the heat of summer may require some fortitude.

Where Italy cruises sail

Some small-ship sailings stop in the Amalfi town of Positano.

Courtesy of Dimitry/Unsplash

Amalfi Coast

Along the famed Amalfi Coast , ships visit Sorrento, overlooking the bay of Naples, and colorful Amalfi, dramatically backed by steep cliffs. Some itineraries also including the strikingly beautiful Positano. Smaller yacht vessels may sail directly to the fancy island of Capri (otherwise there will be a shore excursion, as with the larger ships). Among other shore choices in this region is a visit to ancient Pompeii.

Italy cruise itineraries often land at several ports on Sicily, and some itineraries circumnavigate the island. Each port has its own allure, including the city scene in Palermo; Syracuse, which showcases ancient attractions from when it was a prominent Greek city; Taormina, with its impressive hilltop location and Greek theater; and Lipari, which has a charming, tiny island ambience. In addition to striking landscapes, attractions include Roman and Greek ancient historic sights and views of Mount Etna, plus filming locations featured in The Godfather movies and in Season 2 of the HBO series The White Lotus . If while cruising Sicily your ship ventures to Stromboli, with its famous volcano, it will be from a safe distance—and if you’re lucky, in the dark when you can witness the lava flowing.

Increasingly popular on the cruise map are destinations in Puglia , a region of olive groves and national parks. Small ships call in the city of Lecce and town of Gallipoli, with their impressive baroque architecture; Taranto, a bustling port city with a history dating back to the Spartans and known for its fresh seafood restaurants; the town of Otranto, where a chapel in the cathedral displays skulls of martyrs from a 15th-century Ottoman siege; and the scenic fishing town of Monopoli, with its beaches and castles.

Adriatic Coast and Sardinia

Small ships also visit Italy’s Adriatic Coast, including the historic Ancona, which has Roman ruins and beaches. Additional islands might appear on an Italy cruise itinerary, too, such as Sardinia, where the wild landscape affords hiking opportunities with views, and you can wander among medieval sights in the historic port city of Cagliari.

The best Italy cruises for every type of traveler

Book an Italy cruise with Abercrombie & Kent and this will be your view when sailing on Ponant’s 184-passenger Le Bougainville.

Courtesy of Nicolas Matheus/Ponant

Abercrombie & Kent

• Itinerary : Hidden Treasures From Florence to Venice
• Best for : Classic Italy cruise experience
• Number of days : 11
• Starting cost : $14,885 per person (including two hotel nights in Florence)

Luxury tour company Abercrombie & Kent carefully curates its cruise itineraries with local guides on shore and with destination experts onboard. A&K has partnered with French line Ponant for a September Italy cruise on Ponant’s diesel-electric ship Le Bougainville . This trip explores Florence, Rome, and Venice, stopping along the way on the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, and in Bari (the capitol of Puglia) and Ancona. Added bonus: a day on the French island of Corsica, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. The experience is limited to 148 guests, who can sip drinks with views in the ship’s underwater lounge.

Indulge in Italy’s iconic cuisine on a foodie-focused sailing with Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Photo by Shutterstock

Atlas Ocean Voyages

• Itinerary : Valletta to Rome
• Best for : food lovers
• Number of days : 8
• Starting cost : $3,499 per person

Atlas Ocean Voyages, with its elegant small expedition ships, switches the focus from penguin-spotting in Antarctica to summer expedition cruises in Europe, including what the Portuguese-owned line calls “epicurean expeditions.” On the 196-passenger World Traveller , one such expedition from between Malta and Rome adds the food angle to exploration of Sicily and the Amalfi Coast, with overnights in Positano, the dramatically positioned cliffside town with its labyrinth of staircases, and on the island of Capri. An expedition team will lead culinary explorations on the ship and ashore, such as visiting local markets and specialty tastings, culinary presentations, cooking demonstrations, and sampling wine.

On this Azamara journey, combine coastal cruising with some time in Rome.

Courtesy of Michele Bitetto/Unsplash

Azamara Cruises

• Itinerary : Italy Intensive Voyage
• Best for: More affordable Italy sailing
• Number of days : 10
• Starting cost : $2,320 per person

Sailing round-trip from Venice on the upscale 684-passenger Azamara Pursuit , this “ Italy Intensive Voyage ,” which sets sail in June 2024, takes passengers to Bologna, where optional excursions include a visit to the Ferrari Museum, and the historic Adriatic port city of Ancona, before cruising over to Kotor, Montenegro, with its impressive fjord approach and UNESCO-recognized Old Town. Heading south, you’ll stop by Taranto in Puglia and Sicily’s Giardini Naxos (near Taormina) and Palermo, before lingering in Amalfi, Sorrento, and Capri. There’s the bonus of a day in Rome (accessible from the port of Civitavecchia). It’s a packed itinerary and a great price.

Not a bad way to take in the views of Italy on an Emerald Cruises super yacht

Courtesy of Pompei Luca/Emerald Cruises

Emerald Cruises

• Itinerary : Highlights of Southern Italy
• Best for : Intimate yacht experience
• Number of days : 7
• Starting cost : $6,120 per person

Cruising with thousands or even hundreds of people is one thing; cruising around southern Italy on a luxury super yacht is something else completely. Sail on Emerald Cruises’ 100-passenger Emerald Sakara from Civitavecchia to Dubrovnik , daydreaming in a designer daybed at the infinity pool when you’re not on shore exploring Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, Calabria (from the port city of Crotone) and Puglia. In Sorrento, an included guided tour of the city focuses on gelato. In Sicily’s Giardini Naxos, an optional excursion involves river tubing.

Visit Italy with Lindblad on the storied Sea Cloud ship, with the wind in your sails.

Courtesy of Sea Cloud

Lindblad Expeditions

• Itinerary: Mediterranean Gems: Southern Italy and Sicily Aboard Sea Cloud
• Best for : Historic ship experience
• Starting cost : $18,602 per person

Passengers will immerse themselves in history as soon as they set foot on the 58-passenger Sea Cloud tall ship, built in 1931 for socialite Marjorie Merriweather Post and finance tycoon E.F. Hutton, and decorated with period antiques. Lindblad Expeditions is operating the vessel on several Mediterranean journeys in 2024, including this Southern Italy and Sicily sailing . There will be a Lindblad–National Geographic–certified photo instructor to help guests get perfect photos of the ship’s iconic sails and of the enchanting sights on an off-the-beaten-path itinerary to Puglia, Sicily, and the Amalfi Coast, sailing from Dubrovnik to Naples. Highlights include a private lunch at Castello degli Schiavi, an 18th-century castle used as a filming location in The Godfather movies.

Imagine opening a great bottle of Italian wine in your personal dining room in the Grand Suite on the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Evrima .

Courtesy of Francisco Jose Martinez Mendez/Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

• Itinerary : Rome (Civitavecchia) to Valletta
• Best for : Luxury experience
• Starting cost : $10,600 per person

You can be sure that the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is going to deliver high-end resort cruising, and that’s certainly the case on the 298-passenger Evrima , where Moët & Chandon will flow freely as guests sail from Rome to Malta . Itinerary creativity is another bonus, as you explore the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, and Syracuse, the ship lingering in several ports so that you can go out on the town, with overnights in both Sorrento, where there is time to visit the emerald waters of the Grotta dello Smeraldo, and Taranto, with its white beaches and dolphin-spotting.

This Star Clippers cruise includes a bonus stop on the scenic island of Ponza.

Courtesy of Ferhat Deniz/Unsplash

Star Clippers

• Itinerary : Amalfi & Sicily
• Best for : Value
• Starting cost : $1,930 per person

Star Clippers’ Amalfi and Sicily itinerary on the 166-passenger Star Flyer sailing ship is the perfect combination of going with the wind and hitting key sights. The itinerary is round trip from Civitavecchia (near Rome), making this cruise a convenient and affordable add-on to your own exploration of Italy’s “Eternal City.” Set sail for Sicily (Messina and Lipari) and visit the Amalfi Coast (Sorrento and Amalfi). There’s the bonus of a port call in picturesque Ponza, an island in the Tyrrhenian Sea and very much not on the typical tourist path. When sailing, take in the breezes on the bowsprit.

8 best Italy cruises for a Mediterranean vacation

You don't have to search all that hard to find the best Italy cruises — most leading cruise lines offer dozens of itineraries that visit Italian ports, often in conjunction with neighboring countries France, Greece and Croatia.

The reason? Italy has it all: coastlines on both the Mediterranean and the Adriatic, historic port cities (Rome, Venice and Naples among them) and spectacular islands (including Sicily, Sardinia, Capri and Elba).

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Plus, with a cruise season that runs from early April through late October (and even year-round for a few cruise lines), Italy offers something for everyone. Travel here to find an alluring mix of impeccably preserved historic sites, renowned regional cuisines and natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

Here are eight of the best Italy cruises for every type of traveler.

Best Italy cruises for cultural immersion: Azamara

Azamara pioneered the concept of single-country itineraries, which allow for greater cultural immersion and even overnight stays in select ports. The cruise line's 11-night voyage in October 2024 is one of its most comprehensive.

The sailing begins in Monte Carlo, Monaco, and ends in Rome (Civitavecchia), with visits to seven more Italian ports and Tunis, Tunisia. You'll explore Genoa, Livorno (overnight for Florence/Pisa), Porto Santo Stefano (on the Tuscan coast), Cagliari (on Sardinia), Trapani (on Sicily), Amalfi and Sorrento.

This voyage is aboard the 684-passenger Azamara Onward, one of the cruise line's four virtually identical ships. (All are former Renaissance R-class ships built in the early 2000s and renovated over the past several years.) The vessels' intimate size and Azamara's focus on cultural experiences and shore excursions emphasizing history and food (including cooking classes and market tours) make for an immersive cruise itinerary.

Other Italy-Intensive voyages in 2023 and 2024 include the following: a 10-night voyage in October 2023 aboard Azamara Quest, a 10-night voyage in April 2024 aboard Azamara Pursuit, and a seven-night voyage in May 2024 aboard Azamara Quest.

Best Italy cruises for small-ship lovers: Windstar Cruises

It's rare to find a cruise itinerary so fully focused on one specific region of Italy, but Windstar Cruises ' small ships — three classic sailing yachts and three all-suite motor yachts, which accommodate 148 to 342 guests — allow it to offer cruises to less-frequented ports.

Windstar's 10-day Sicilian Splendors , aboard its 342-passenger sailing yacht Wind Surf, is available on multiple dates in 2023, 2024 and 2025. The ship will cruise round-trip from Rome and call on six Italian ports: Catania (for Mount Etna), Porto Empedocle (for the ancient ruins at Agrigento) and Trapani (for its signature colored salts and Marsala wines), all in Sicily; the island of Lipari (the largest of seven Aeolian Islands); and Sorrento and Amalfi on the stunning Amalfi Coast. The cruise also visits the neighboring islands of Malta and Gozo.

Five-masted Wind Surf is the world's largest sailing ship. It manages to be intimate without feeling claustrophobic, although it is worth noting that none of its staterooms or suites has a balcony. There is, however, ample deck space for relaxation, with a pool and two hot tubs, as well as inviting alfresco bars and dining areas.

Related: The 2 classes of Windstar ships, explained

Indoors, the ship's restaurants and social spaces, such as the Veranda Restaurant, Stella Bistro and the Compass Rose Bar, are light-filled, with elegant neutral decor refreshed in 2019.

Musical entertainment takes place in the Wind Surf Lounge and Compass Rose Bar, and Windstar's excellent dining program reflects an ongoing partnership with the James Beard Foundation. In select tender ports, passengers can enjoy a watersports platform and take out sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

Best Italy cruises for onboard pampering: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

If enjoying yacht-style indulgence as you explore Southern Italy is on your cruise wish list, consider the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's 10-night Rome to Valletta itinerary in May 2024. This cruise visits scenic hot spots such as Sorrento and Amalfi on the Amalfi Coast, history-rich Siracusa in Sicily and three ports (Gallipoli, Taranto and Otranto) in lesser-known Puglia, located on the heel of boot-shaped Italy, before passengers disembark in Malta.

Ritz-Carlton, which entered the cruise realm in 2021 with its 298-passenger luxury yacht, Evrima , offers an all-inclusive "yachting lifestyle" experience. This leisurely sailing features overnights in Sorrento and Taranto and two sea days with ample ways to enjoy onboard pampering. The ship's spacious suites are designed with a contemporary residential feel and range in size from 300 square feet with an 81-square-foot terrace to 1,091 square feet with a 635-square-foot terrace.

Evrima also offers nine bars and dining venues featuring menus created to reflect the ports visited. For culinary indulgence, guests can book a table at S.E.A., a specialty dining experience designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the Michelin three-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany.

The ship also features chicly designed spaces for relaxing and socializing, such as the Pool House lounge overlooking an aft infinity pool, a second pool located next to the alfresco restaurant Mistral, a panoramic Observation Lounge and a full-service Ritz-Carlton Spa.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best Italy cruises for foodies: Silversea Cruises

The three newest ships in the Silversea Cruises fleet — Silver Moon, Silver Dawn and 2023's first-in-class Silver Nova — all feature the cruise line's immersive culinary program known as S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste). When Silversea's next ship, the 728-passenger Silver Ray, debuts in 2024, it will also take its guests on culinary-focused journeys — among them an 11-day Rome to Venice itinerary in June 2024.

The itinerary includes calls on seven ports in Italy: Rome, Naples, Sorrento, Palermo, Siracusa, Trieste and Venice. The sailing also visits ports in Malta, Montenegro and Croatia.

Silversea's sailings blend food-centric excursions — such as a visit to a family farm for a tasting of fresh cheese, salami and olive oil in Sorrento — with the onboard S.A.L.T. program to make sampling local cuisine a natural part of the cruise experience. The day-to-day menus at S.A.L.T. Kitchen are all inspired by the ports visited. The Terrain menu focuses on that day's port while the Voyage menu draws from the best flavors of the entire itinerary.

Passengers aboard Silver Ray should definitely pack an appetite — in addition to S.A.L.T. Kitchen, the ship features seven other restaurants. They are La Dame for haute French cuisine, Atlantide for signature fine dining (think caviar and lobster), Kaiseki for Japanese sushi and teppanyaki (as well as pan-Asian dishes), Silver Note for tapas-style dining and live music, The Grill for casual burgers and salads, La Terrazza for handmade pasta and other Italian specialties, and Spaccanapoli for thin-crusted Naples-style pizza. With 11 nights aboard, there's time to sample all of them.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Best Italy cruises for families: Norwegian Cruise Line

If an Italy adventure with the entire family sounds like the perfect cruise vacation in 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line 's new Norwegian Viva, launching in August 2023 as the sister ship to 2022's Norwegian Prima, is an ideal playground for guests of all ages.

The most Italy-focused itinerary? The 10-day Mediterranean: Italy, Greece & Croatia cruise (offered aboard 3,099-guest Viva in late June and late September 2024) calls on six ports in Italy — Rome, Livorno, Naples, Messina, Siracusa and Trieste — as well as the islands of Corfu and Malta; Koper, Slovenia; and Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia.

This itinerary is rich in history and culture, including the ancient landmarks of Rome, the archeological wonders of Pompeii and the Leaning Tower of Pisa near Livorno, plus the beauty and culinary treats (sweet cannoli and savory arancini) of Sicily, where Viva makes two port calls. Though the cruise ends in Trieste, the wonders of Venice are just 90 minutes away, so adding a few extra nights to explore its colorful, canal-laced islands is a must.

Onboard Viva, you'll enjoy more than a dozen dining options (five of them complimentary, including the casual and family-friendly Indulge Food Hall), 16 bars and lounges and all the fun activities/entertainment (including a production of the Broadway hit "Beetlejuice: The Musical") that the line offers.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Top amenities include the three-deck Viva Speedway for exhilarating go-kart racing, three thrilling slides (two of them 10-story corkscrew dry slides and one tidal-wave-style waterslide), virtual-reality gaming in the Galaxy Pavilion, tech-enhanced minigolf and more. Also, Viva's generous outside deck space — especially Deck 8's Ocean Boulevard with its lively Indulge Outdoor Lounge and sleek Infinity Beach pools — is ideal for scenic cruising in the Mediterranean and Adriatic.

Best Italy cruises for couples: Oceania Cruises

The sophisticated onboard ambiance and a romantic itinerary are a lovely combination, and couples can enjoy both on the 12-night Mediterranean Tapestry sailing offered in June 2024 aboard Oceania Cruises ' newest vessel, Oceania Vista.

The 1,200-passenger ship, which debuted in May 2023, will visit four top ports in Italy — Venice/Trieste in Northern Italy, Taormina in Sicily, Amalfi/Positano in Southern Italy and Civitavecchia for a day in Rome.

Beyond Italy, this itinerary offers a sampling of scenic locales in six other Adriatic and Mediterranean countries with a possible pre-cruise stay in Venice. You'll visit Korcula and Split in Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Igoumanitsa and Katakolon in Greece; Ajaccio, Corsica; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Marseille, France; and Barcelona, Spain.

Oceania caters to couples seeking an upscale cruise experience with a culinary focus. Onboard Vista, the atmosphere is sleek and polished, with interior decor awash in elegant neutrals of varying patterns and textures, all woven together into a soothing mosaic (in some cases, literally, as tiled vignettes are used throughout the ship). Vista's bars and lounges, especially the Martini Bar and the Grand Lounge, are so chic you'll want to get dressed up every night to enjoy one of the craft cocktails on their newly enhanced menus.

All specialty dining is included in the cruise fare, and stand-out meals at Polo Grill (for an excellent steakhouse menu), Toscana (for authentic Italian, including recipes by Vista's godmother Giada De Laurentiis) and Red Ginger (for flavorful pan-Asian) are just a reservation away. Two new eateries, Aquamar Kitchen and Ember, serve wellness-focused cuisine and casual American comfort food, respectively, and an expanded Culinary Arts Center lets guests who love to cook take hands-on classes.

Best of all, Vista is an all-balcony ship, so every stateroom features access to fresh air (French Veranda Staterooms don't have an outdoor sitting area, however). Veranda Staterooms and Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms offer a spacious 290 square feet of indoor space — and some of the best standard bathrooms at sea with roomy walk-in showers and ample storage.

Related: The best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Best Italy cruises for travelers on a budget: Royal Caribbean

To score a budget cruise fare in the Mediterranean, it helps to look for sailings aboard a cruise line's older ships. If Italy is your main focus for a future cruise, it's hard to beat the seven-night Western Mediterranean itinerary in September 2024 aboard Royal Caribbean 's Voyager of the Seas.

It visits five Italian ports: Venice/Ravenna, Messina in Sicily, Naples, Rome and Livorno (for Florence and Pisa). The ship also calls on Marseille and Barcelona. Voyager's Italy-focused cruise is a jam-packed itinerary with just one sea day.

Ideal for both couples and multi-generational families, the 3,600-passenger Voyager of the Seas (which debuted in 1999 and was last refurbished in 2019) features seven restaurants (including three complimentary dining venues and specialty restaurant favorites Chops Grille and Giovanni's Table) and eight bars/lounges.

The ship has been "amped-up" so guests can enjoy features found on Royal Caribbean's newer ships: Perfect Storm waterslides, FlowRider simulated surfing, Battle for Planet Z laser tag, Voyager Dunes minigolf, Studio B ice-skating shows and reimagined spaces for kids and teens.

Nights aboard Voyager of the Seas will be filled with complimentary entertainment options: production shows in the Royal Theater, pub performances by guest entertainers and bands, game-show competitions, pool parties, outdoor movie nights and a '70s disco party.

Best Italy cruises for adults-only ambiance: Viking

Is Venice at the top of your wish list? Does an adults-only cruise on a ship with serene, Scandinavian-inspired interior decor and complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner sound ideal?

If so, check out Viking 's 15-night Italy, the Adriatic and Greece itinerary , which sails from Athens to Rome and visits six Italian ports — Venice/Chioggia, Bari, Crotone, Messina, Naples and Rome — with three days spent in Venice. As a bonus, you'll also visit ports in Greece (Katakolon and Corfu), Croatia (Dubrovnik, Split and Sibenik) and Montenegro (Kotor).

Offered on multiple dates in fall 2023, 2024 and 2025, this itinerary is chock full of port experiences; there are no sea days, and a total of 13 cities are visited. Viking includes one free guided shore excursion in each port, usually a panoramic bus tour or historic walking tour. Use that as an overview and then explore on your own or book one of the cruise line's longer or more specialized excursions. Onboard guest speakers also offer insight into the ports visited and the cultural landscape.

The cruise line's nine ocean ships are all identical and accommodate 930 passengers, most of whom are couples over age 55. Onboard dining is available in eight restaurants, including the main venue, The Restaurant and the buffet-style World Cafe, the casual Pool Grill and the Norwegian-focused Mamsen's. Guests can also reserve dinner at two specialty restaurants (at no extra charge): Manfredi's for Italian cuisine and The Chef's Table for multi-course, wine-paired menus that rotate throughout the cruise.

Afternoon tea is served in the elegant Wintergarden. The Aquavit Terrace overlooking the aft infinity pool is a sunny spot to enjoy alfresco dining.

If you're willing to come back early from port, Viking's ocean ships offer plenty of ways to relax on board. All passengers enjoy complimentary access to the ship's thermal suite in the LivNordic Spa. It features a thalassotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and snow room. The Main Pool has a retractable roof and can be enjoyed no matter what the weather. However, if you want to live it up at night, note that the ship does not have an onboard casino.

Bottom line

The best Italy cruises offer access to some of the country's most-loved cities, as well as a chance to explore some of its sunny islands and lesser-known coastal ports. No matter the itinerary, you're guaranteed to enjoy the splendid landscapes, treasured antiquities and, of course, the incredible gelato.

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Genoa, an Italy cruise ship stop on the Mediterranean

Genoa is a regular Mediterranean Cruise stop

Genoa is a port with an eclectic city of secret beauty displayed in its daring architecture and frescoes found in some almost forgotten noble palaces..

In the centre is the Piazza de Ferrari, with the iconic bronze fountain and the Teatro Carlo Felice Opera House and the Palace of the Doges. Some of the other main sights here include the beautiful black and white striped St. Stefano Abbey and St. Lawrence Cathedral, with its bare medieval style.

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In 2024 we are building our AFRICA menu and visiting to film Cape Town and other ports

Cape Town, South Africa

This garden of wine and golf has features that include Robbin Island and Table Mountain but we start with the penguins.

Freddie Mercury house in Zanzibar

Freddie Mercury was born in Zanzibar. It is a strictly religious country so is not as proud of him as you might expect.

Tema Accra cruise port

Tema Accra is a popular port receiving over 1500 vessels a year. It is popular with cruise ships.

Abidjan, the Ivory Coast

Abidjan is an economic centre with modern landmarks like La Pyramide, and St. Paul’s Cathedral which has a

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One day in naples from a cruise ship (+ tips & port guide).

Do you have just one day in Naples from a cruise ship and are looking for the best things to do?

Then you’ve come to the right place. As I have visited Naples on a cruise, I can help you make the most of your day in one of the most vibrant cities in Italy.

Whether you want to eat the best pizza in the world, explore the city’s underground secrets or visit Pompeii, here are the best things to do in Naples in a day. Although you can see the sights on a shore excursion, I’ve included a useful Naples cruise port guide to help you navigate the city independently.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

NAPLES CRUISE PORT AT A GLANCE

Naples cruise terminal : Most ships dock at Stazione Maritima, the cruise terminal for Naples which is part of the Port of Naples (Porto Napoli). Ferries and hydrofoils travel sail to Naples and Capri, Ischia, Sorrento, and other cities from Molo Beverello, situated next to the cruise terminal. Distance from the cruise terminal to the city centre : 10 minutes on foot Best time of year to visit Naples : March to May, or during autumn (fall) Currency:  Euro (€). Cash is widely used and most places accept major credit cards. Check here  for live exchange rates. Tipping:  Tips are not expected when ordering a coffee or a drink in Naples. In restaurants, it is common practice to leave a tip of around €1 per person or round up the bill to the nearest five or ten euros. 15 – 20% tips are unheard of in Italy. TOP RATED EXCURSIONS: Naples walking tour Street food tour Amalfi Coast tour Pompeii, Herculaneum & Vesuvius tour

Best Things to Do in Naples from a Cruise Ship (+ Map)

My return visit to Naples was part of a Western Mediterranean cruise on NCL Epic . As this is an easy and destination-rich itinerary, it is a good choice for the first-time cruiser .

The itinerary started and finished in the Catalan city of Barcelona , giving me a welcome opportunity to check the progress of La Sagrada Família . Other highlights included the honey-hued Palma de Mallorca , Civitavecchia (for Rome) and visiting the marble quarries at Carrara .

Out of all of these ports of call, Naples was the easiest, purely because its historic city centre is only a ten-minute walk from the port. If needed, there are tips for using the metro in Naples later in this article ( here ).

If you are someone who likes to map it out, here’s one that I have prepared. For a live, interactive map, click on this link or on the image.

Visit Castel Nuovo 

Start your day in Naples at Castel Nuovo . Looming over the harbour, this is an enormous military castle with striking and eccentric round towers.

Built by Charles of Anjou in 1279, most of what you see today is the work of the Catalan architect Guillermo Sagrara who was also responsible for the Exchange in Palma de Mallorca .

The castle’s main entrance is an intricately carved 15th-century white marble triumphal arch, tucked in between two of the towers. Inside, there are frescoes by Giotto in the Cappella Palatina and a collection of artwork by Neapolitan painters from the 17th to early 20th Centuries.

Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele III

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am to 6.30 pm. You can choose one of seven timed entrance slots. More information here .

Stop for a coffee in Galleria Umberto I 

This light-filled shopping arcade was built at the end of the 19th century as part of a project to rebuild and renovate much of Naples. Crowned with a domed glass and steel roof, and decorated with elegant murals and sculptures, the Galleria Umberto is part of the UNESCO listing of the Historic Centre of Naples as a World Heritage Site.

Admire Piazza del Plebiscito

After languishing as a car park between the 1960s and 1994, this immense and elegant square has been restored to its former splendour.

Piazza del Plebiscito was built from volcanic rock from Vesuvius in the first half of the 19 th  Century. It is named after the 1860 plebiscite that brought Naples into the unified Kingdom of Italy.

The square is flanked by two majestic buildings.

Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), one of four royal residences around Naples used by the Bourbon Kings, occupies its southern edge. Facing the Palazzo Reale, Basilica San Francesco di Paola embraces the piazza with its curving colonnades.

Stroll the streets of the historic centre of Naples

A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995, the historic centre of Naples ( centro storico ) is a warren of old churches, small shops, cafes, and bars. Naples was founded by Greek settlers in 470 B.C. and has retained the imprint of the successive cultures that have occupied the city.

The historic centre is roughly bounded by the waterfront on the south,  Via Toledo  and the Spanish Quarter to its western edge and Via Floria on the northern edge. For tourists, Via Duomo marks its eastern side.

Spaccanapoli , meaning ‘Split Naples’ does exactly that. Lined with grocery barrows and one-of-a-kind shops, and inhabited by arch-Neapolitan characters, this is the heart of old Naples.

Don’t miss Via San Gregorio Armeno , which is tucked between Spaccanapoli and Via dei Tribunali. This charming lane is known across Italy for its artisan shops selling handcrafted pastori , or nativity-scene figurines.

Go underground at Galleria Borbonica 

Naples is a city with buried secrets. Tunnels, caves, and catacombs lace their way under the city, and I recommend going underground at least once during your day in Naples.

Galleria Borbonica (Bourbon Gallery or Bourbon Tunnel) has a fascinating history.

It housed immense water tanks in the 1600s and served as an escape for the Bourbon royal family. It was an air-raid shelter during World War II and an impound lot.

A section of the tunnel is a Vespa graveyard, populated with confiscated souped-up scooters that have exceeded the 50km/hour speed limit.

Address: Vico del Grottone, 4

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Visit Naples Cathedral

Naples is home to more than 450 churches but the most important of these is Naples Cathedral. The cathedral is dedicated to San Gennaro, the patron saint of the city, and is variously known as the Duomo di Napoli, Duomo di San Gennaro and the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral.

It was built in the 13th Century on the remains of the ancient temple dedicated to the god Apollo. In the late 17th century it was reworked in flamboyant Baroque fashion with the later addition of a late nineteenth-century Neo-Gothic façade.

With a golden Byzantine mosaic and frescoes galore, the best stuff is on the inside. But most importantly, the cathedral is the home of the skull of San Gennaro and an ampoule   that encloses his blood.

It is said that the saint’s blood liquefies twice a year. If the miracle of liquefaction doesn’t occur, misfortune will strike the town.

Address: Via Duomo, 147

Opening hours : Check here . Usually closed between lunchtime and late afternoon.

Closest metro stations: Metro Line 1 University / Metro Line 2 Cavour

Other churches in Naples

Two other churches that are worth adding to your one-day Naples itinerary are San Lorenzo Maggiore Basilica and San Domenico Maggiore Church. Located in the exact geographical centre of historic Naples, San Lorenzo Maggiore Basilica is famous for the remains of an ancient two-storey Greco-Roman market beneath its floors. Visit San Domenico Maggiore Church for its lavishly decorated interior that features intricate gold details and a dramatic altar.

Get your history fix at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples

Naples National Archaeological Museum (MANN) is one of the great museums of the world.

Starting life as an army barracks in the 16th Century, it was converted into a museum in the 19th Century. This massive museum is spread across four floors and is home to an extensive collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, as well as artefacts from Ancient Egypt.

Visiting MANN is one of the best things to do in Naples if you are planning to visit Pompeii or Herculaneum. Valuable treasures from these two sites are displayed here, giving you greater insight into daily life in Pompeii and Herculaneum .

The museum’s other highlight is the Farnese Collection . This collection of classic sculptures and objects from the villas of ancient Rome is one of the world’s most important Greco-Roman exhibitions.

Address : Piazza Museo, 19

Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday 9 am to 7.30 pm. Closed on Tuesdays.

Closest metro stations: Museo or Cavour, lines 1 and 2

Admission fee: Ticket price applies. Free on the first Sunday of the month and on a few selected dates.

Admire views of Vesuvius with a walk through Santa Lucia

Walk along the Lungomare waterfront in the Santa Lucia district of Naples for views across the Bay of Naples. Mount Vesuvius looms menacingly on the other side of the water.

Santa Lucia’s fishermen were evicted following an enormous landfill project and this attractive area is now home to restaurants and some of Naples’ finest hotels.

Visit Castel dell’Ovo

At the end of the Lungomare, on the Borgo Marinaro island, is Naples’ oldest, and most picturesque, castle.

Castel dell’Ovo was built by the Normans in the 12th century. Prior to that, the site played host to the last Western Roman Emperor, Romulus Augustulus, during his exile.

Today, the castle today is used for events and temporary art exhibitions, but you can take a walk around its fortified walls for free.

There is one thing that you must do if you have just one day in Naples. Eat pizza!

One of the best reasons to visit Italy is to feast on pizza and Naples is where it all began.

In 1889 King Umberto I and Queen Margherita needed a respite from their relentless diet of French Haute Cuisine. It just goes to show that you can get too much of a good thing.

Amongst the selection presented to the royal couple, the queen preferred the pizza topped with mozzarella, tomatoes and basil (coincidentally, the colours of the Italian flag).

And so Pizza Margherita was born.

L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is reputed to make the best pizza in Naples. This is also where Julia Roberts munched on a slice of pizza in the movie Eat, Pray, Love .

The pizzeria is on Via Cesare Sersale, close to Naples Cathedral and a 20-minute walk from Naples cruise port. Expect to queue.

Guided Tours of Naples

If you don’t feel comfortable exploring Naples on your own, or you are looking for greater insight into the city’s history, culture and way of life, consider joining an organised walking tour.

I use GetYourGuide to source and book day excursions. Not only does the platform offer an extensive selection of tours from independent operators, but there is also a very generous cancellation policy.

Here are a few tours related to the activities in this article:

Historic Centre of Naples Walking Tour

This 2.5-hour walking tour takes in the streets around Spaccanapoli and includes a visit to Cappella San Severo where the Veiled Christ is housed.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Naples: Street Food Tour with Local Guide

If sampling the local cuisine is more your thing, try some of the tastiest street foods in Naples as you stroll around the city’s historic centre. As you might expect, pizza is included as is a shot of limoncello and gelato.

Best Day Trips from Naples for Cruise Passengers

Maybe you’ve already visited Naples and want to explore the beauty of the Amalfi Coast or the historic sites of Pompeii or Herculaneum. All of these places are easy day trips from Naples, even if you are a cruise passenger.

As with any onshore activities, always check that you will be able to make it back to the ship in plenty of time. If in doubt, book a shore excursion that guarantees to deposit you back at the port before your ship sails away.

Sorrento was the first place that I visited on the Amalfi coast over 30 years ago. Famous for its lemons and high-pedigree hotels, this laid-back town has been popular with tourists since the Grand Tours of the 19th Century.

This is the place to replenish your supplies of limoncello .

Stop for a coffee or lunch in one of the small cafes Piazza Tasso , Sorrento’s main square. Pick up gifts in the town’s famous small ceramics, lacework and marquetry (woodwork) shops.

But, best of all, take in the dramatic views over the Bay of Naples from Sorrento’s lofty clifftop location.

A ferry will take you across the Bay of Naples to Sorrento in 40 minutes. This service departs multiple times a day during the main travel season that runs from April through October.

Island of Capri

Capri is an enchaining garden of Eden with more than 8,000 species of flora tumbling over a sheer chunk of limestone, eroded over the millennia into fantastical forms.

The Blue Grotto (Grotto Azzura) is Capri’s headline act. The shimmering, iridescent blueness of the water in this sea cave is due to the reflection of light on the water in the morning.

Renowned as a playground for Roman Emperors, artists and the Hollywood glitterati, Capri’s jaw-dropping beauty comes at a hefty price. Capri town is awash with designer boutiques and jewellery shops, and the island also prides itself on its fine dining.

To reach Capri from Naples, take a high-speed hydrofoil.

The hydrofoil service operates from the Molo Beverello pier and takes about 40 minutes to get to Capri. You can check the timetable here .

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii barely needs an introduction.

Pompeii was once a cosmopolitan resort town inhabited by wealthy Romans. All this ended in 79 A.D when the town was buried under the volcanic ash of Mount Vesuvius.  

Today’s visitors to Pompeii can stroll along the town’s ancient paved streets and view the remains of its lavish villas, elegantly bathhouses, temples and massive 20,000-seater amphitheatre.

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I have been to Pompeii twice, once with a guide and once without. From my experiences, this is one place where it is worth paying for a guided tour.

Pompeii’s ruins are huge and sometimes confusing with little signage. A map and guidebook are unlikely to cut it here.

>>> Visit Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius on a day tour from Naples. Click here for further information and to book.

Herculaneum

For a different perspective, visit Herculaneum, a few stops along the Circumvesuviana train line towards Naples or Sorrento.

Herculaneum suffered the same fate as Pompeii when Vesuvius erupted. However, its buildings are better preserved than those of its neighbour, many having their upper storey intact.

The tragedy of Herculaneum feels immediate.

The town’s boathouses are home to the skeletons of hundreds of people sheltering from the eruption. Whilst waiting for a boat to rescue them, their flesh was vaporised by an intense wave of hot gas, leaving only their charred bones.

Along with Pompeii, Herculaneum is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Take the Circumvesuviana or Campania Express to Ercolano Scavi, which is in the centre of town. The journey time is 10 – 20 minutes.

Can you visit Pompeii, Vesuvius and Herculaneum in one day?

Whilst this should be possible on a typical cruise ship schedule, it will be a long day and could feel overwhelming. Pompeii demands at least a half-day and you will need a minimum of two hours to visit Herculaneum

Getting Around Naples

How to get from naples cruise port to the historic centre.

Naples’ historic centre is an easy 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal.

Once you leave the cruise terminal, follow the passenger walkway that will take you to the Piazza del Plebiscito in the heart of the historic city centre.

How to get around Naples

Walking is the easiest way to explore Naples.

If you want to visit places that are further out or reach the city’s main railway station, your best option is line 1 of the city’s metro system , also known as the “Art Line” thanks to the works of art decorating its stops.

A single ticket is valid for 90 minutes. Day tickets offering unlimited journeys are also available.

Municipio is the closest metro station to the cruise terminal.

Naples also has a hop-on-hop-off (HOHO) bus. There is a bus stop outside the terminal, adjacent to Castel Nuovo that you’ll spot upon exiting the terminal building.

The HOHO bus follows two different routes stopping at principal sights and attractions in Naples. In the summer months, a third route takes you to the San Martino Monastery. An audio commentary is included.

Whilst this is a hassle-free way of getting around Naples, the city’s traffic is legendary and there’s every chance that you will spend a chunk of your time in congested streets.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR HOHO BUS TICKET

How to Get Away from Naples Cruise Port

Choose between Porta Nolana or Garibaldi stations, from where you can catch the Circumvesuviana or Campania Express train services.

From Porta Nolana

The closest railway station to Naples cruise port is Porta Nolana , a 30-minute walk northeast. If you prefer, you can take metro line 1 from Colombo station near the marina to Garibaldi – Circumvesuviana.

Otherwise, the Naples Alibus Airport Shuttle leaves from outside Stazione Marittima and stops outside Napoli Centrale station. From here, it’s a ten-minute walk to Porta Nolana.

From Garibaldi station

Alternatively, Garibaldi station, on the lower level of Naples’ main railway station, is just over two miles from the cruise terminal. To reach Garibaldi station by public transport, take the metro line 1 from Municipio station to Piazza Garibaldi, or the Naples Alibus Airport Shuttle from the port.

Circumvesuviana train service

From Naples Garibaldi or Porta Nolana, the private Circumvesuviana train service connects the city to Sorrento via Pompeii and Herculaneum, with countless stops along the way. I recommend starting your journey at Porta Nolana station as this is the terminus and you stand a better chance of getting a seat.

Fares are low and services are frequent. But as this is predominantly a commuter line, it can get crowded. Timetable here .

Campania Express

The  Campania Express is a faster and more comfortable alternative to the Circumvesuviana train. However, it is a more expensive and less frequent service that runs between April and October only.

Although these trains run on the same route as the Circumvesuviana, they stop only at popular tourist sites, including Pompeii, Herculaneum and Sorrento.  Again, trains depart Naples from Napoli Porta Nolana and Garibaldi stations.

By ferry and hydrofoil

As Naples Cruise Terminal is located next to its ferry dock, it’s easy to jump on a boat across the Bay of Naples.

Is Naples Safe for Solo Cruisers?

Keeping safe is a priority for solo travellers , especially for first-time solo travellers .

Over the years, Naples has hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons. Filthy, crime-ridden, garbage-strewn; you name it, it’s been called it.

And yes; petty crime is a problem in Naples, but the same can be said for many major cities. This is not a reason for avoiding a destination but you just need to keep your wits about you.

Remain vigilant, keep your belongings close to you and use your hotel or cabin safe to store valuables.

Thank you for reading my Naples cruise port guide

I hope that it helps you have the best day in Naples on a cruise. Even as a repeat visitor, I found that there were so many things to do that the main challenge was narrowing down the choices.

If you want to learn more about other great Mediterranean ports of call, take a peek at these articles:

• Western Mediterranean Cruise: Essential Tips, Ports & NCL Epic Review
• How to Spend One Day in Barcelona from a Cruise Ship (+ Self-guided Walking Tour)
• Is the Go City® Barcelona Pass Worth it in 2023? An Honest Review
• One Day in Palma de Mallorca, Spain: 8 Awesome Things to Do
• 35+ Famous Landmarks in Rome, Italy That You Will Love 

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

Messina Cruise Port Guide | 12 Best Things To Do In Messina Sicily

Welcome to Messina cruise port, Sicily! (Post updated: March 2024)

Separated from mainland Italy by the Strait of Messina, the city of Messina lies on the northeastern coast of Sicily and is its third largest city and a major seaport. Due to its strategic and geographical position, Messina is often referred to as “the door to Sicily” and there are daily ferries connecting it to the mainland. Messina is also the main gateway to the breathtaking city of Taormina , located about a 45-minute drive to the south. In this article, read about:

• Messina port guide (Messina cruise terminal, getting around, helpful info)
• Top 12 things to do in Messina cruise port & best Messina shore excursions (getting to Taormina and Etna, top things to do)

Visit also our cruise port guides to Catania , Palermo (Sicily) , Cagliari , Civitavecchia (Rome) , Naples

Messina Cruise Port

Messina cruise terminal is located in the heart of the city, within a 5-minute walk from Piazza del Duomo, the main square dominated by the imposing Messina Cathedral. The cruise terminal has one berth and can accommodate 1 cruise ship at a time. There is no terminal building, but you can find all services (ATMs, currency exchange, taxis, shops, restaurants) right after you exit the terminal. Parking for tour buses is located on the pier.

The port of Messina is the main gateway to the resort town of Taormina , which is located around 52 km/32 miles (a 45-minute drive) to the south. You can get to Taormina by train, bus, car, or with a shore excursion (read in detail further in the article). In case your cruise ship anchors in the Bay of Naxos near Taormina, check out my article Taormina Cruise Port Guide (Giardini Naxos)  for more information.

Getting Around Messina Sicily

• The port area is flat and suitable for wheelchair users. Messina’s old town is also flat, except for the Temple of Christ the King which is located on a hilltop.
• Upon exiting the cruise terminal, cross the Via Vittorio Emanuele II (“Via” means “the street”) and you’ll reach Via G. Garibaldi where you’ll find taxis, Hop on Hop off buses, a tourist train, and lots of restaurants and pubs. Duomo di Messina (Messina Cathedral) is located right across the street from there.
• The currency in Sicily (Italy) is EURO (€). ATMs are available in town and near the cruise terminal. Local currency and credit cards are widely accepted.
• Tipping is not customary in Italy, however, there is a service fee of 15-20% of the bill (or 2€ per person) in the majority of restaurants. In some cities, restaurants may be closed between 2 pm and 7 pm (they close after lunchtime and reopen in the evening).
• There are plenty of taxis around the city, but you may not need them because you can explore the entire city on foot. Taxi drivers often offer guided tours to Taormina and other places.
• Messina Hop on Hop off city sightseeing bus departs from the company’s ticket office on Via Cesare Battisti 10 (on the corner of Via Cesare Battisti and Via G. Garibaldi, literally just across the street next to Coppedè Gelateria). There are two lines: Red Line (departs from Piazza Duomo, runs every 60 minutes and stops at Piazza Duomo, Regional Museum, Beach and Lakes) and Blue Line (departs from Coppedè Gelateria on the corner of Via Cesare Battisti and Via G. Garibaldi, runs every 45 minutes and stops at Piazza Duomo, Temple of Christ the King, Neptune Fountain, Via Garibaldi, Chiesa dei Catalani). Blue Line is recommended if you prefer to explore the city attractions, while the Red Line goes a bit outside of the city. A 1-day ticket starts at 10€. There is also the Green Line that goes only to the beach and costs 5€ (prices from 2023).
• The City Train Tour starts from Piazza Duomo and consists of over 10 stops around the city. The duration is 50 minutes.
• Messina Centrale (Messina central bus and train station) is located on Piazza della Repubblica, only 850 m (10 minutes’ walk) southeast of Messina cruise terminal. Trains in Italy are operated by Trenitalia and you can check the timetables and prices at https://www.trenitalia.com/ . Trains from Messina to Taormina run once or twice per hour, and the ride lasts from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the train itinerary. The central bus station is located here too.
• Public buses and trams in Messina are operated by ATM (Azienda Trasporti Messina). You can check the timetables on the official webpage https://www.atmmessinaspa.it/
• Intercity buses in Sicily are operated by Interbus Autolinee and they depart from the central station. If you decide to go to Taormina by bus, you’ll take this one. Check out the timetables and prices at https://www.interbus.it/
• If you prefer to rent a car , you won’t have much trouble finding parking, because Messina is less crowded than other places such as Palermo, Taormina, and others.
• There are two airports in Sicily. The main and largest airport is Catania Fontanarossa Airport , located a 1.5-hour drive south of Messina, while Palermo Airport is located a 3h 15-min drive west of Messina.
• Check out Messina (Taormina) tours and activities
• Book a private transfer from Messina cruise port
• Search the best hotels in Messina

Watch my YouTube video on Messina cruise port!

12 Best Things to Do in Messina Cruise Port

Before I share the best things to do in Messina, I invite you to grab your copy of the “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide” , the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports (including Messina) , packed with practical information, expert tips & unforgettable experiences! (PDF format/200 pages)

1. Piazza Duomo

Piazza Duomo is the main square in Messina, dominated by the imposing Cathedral of Messina  (also known as Duomo di Messina and Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta ) and its iconic Astronomical Clock . Next to the bell tower is the lavish  Orion Fountain , a grand 16th-century fountain with statues of mythological figures built to celebrate running water. The fountain dates from 1551 and was originally constructed by a renowned architect from Florence who was a student of Michelangelo.

In the surrounding streets, you can find numerous restaurants, pizzerias, gelaterias, some shops, pubs and cafes. On the square itself, there are a few benches to sit and relax while enjoying the Astronomical Clock’s noontime show. At this time, the square is very busy so make sure you arrive exactly at noon and get your camera ready!

Check out Messina walking tours and activities

2. Cathedral of Messina

Also known as Duomo di Messina and Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta , the monumental Messina Cathedral was built by the Normans in the 12th century and features magnificent architecture. The cathedral was reconstructed in the 20th century, after the devastating earthquake of 1908 and World War II bombings. The major attraction is the cathedral’s bell tower, which houses the largest astronomical clock in the world.

3. Astronomical Clock of the Cathedral of Messina

The bell tower of the Cathedral of Messina ( Campanile Del Duomo Di Messina ) contains the biggest and most complex mechanical and astronomical clock in the world. Designed by the company Ungerer of Strasbourg for the Archbishop at the time, Mons. Angelo Paino, the 60-meter-high clock was inaugurated on August 15th, 1933. Every day at noon, there is a show with all the bronze figurines that come out and begin to play and tell a story of the history of Messina. Quite impressive to see!

You can climb the bell tower and see the whole system up close. The entrance fee is 5€ and there are 236 steps to handle. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree view of Messina and its port!

Explore Messina sightseeing tours and activities

4. Temple of Christ the King

Also known as Tempio di Cristo Re , Sacrario di Cristo Re and Shrine of Christ the King , the church was designed by Giovan Battista Milani in 1937 and features a beautiful Baroque hexagonal design and a large ornate dome that can be seen for miles. The church houses the remains of the soldiers and people who lost their lives in two world wars whose gravestones you can see on the walls.

It takes about 20 minutes a slightly uphill walk from the port to reach the church. From the platform in front of it, you can admire stunning views of the city and port. Hop on Hop off buses and City Train both stop here, so it’s a better option if you want to avoid walking.

5. Neptune Fountain

The lavish Fontana di Nettuno lies a 10-minute walk north of Messina cruise terminal and overlooks Messina Marina. Designed by Giovanni Montorsoli in 1557, the fountain is dedicated to the sea god Neptune who is depicted in the center holding his legendary trident, surrounded by several other mythical characters. Right behind the fountain square is a beautiful Government Palace (Palazzo del Governo) that nowadays houses the city council.

Check out the Fountain of Neptune tours and activities

6. Churches and Museums

• Chiesa Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani – This beautiful church is located right only 100 m away from Duomo di Messina, and you’ll probably see it upon crossing the street from the terminal. Built in the 12th century, the church is a fine example of Norman architecture and one of the few buildings that survived the earthquake of 1908.
• Church of Saint Mary of the Carmel – Located approximately 650 m from Duomo and 1 km from the port, Chiesa del Carmine boasts a truly unorthodox design with its Baroque architecture, a large central basilica and a wonderful light grey/blue coloration.
• Interdisciplinary Regional Museum of Messina (MUME) – This museum contains art and archaeological collections of local and national artwork and artifacts sourced from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. It is located a 10-minute drive north of the port of Messina.

7. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III

Located only 300 m from Piazza Duomo, the galleria features a style similar to the famous Milan gallery with its large central promenade covered with a glass roof and a magnificent front facade with columns and ornate arches. It is quite impressive inside as well, although the majority of shops were closed when I visited. The gallery opened in 1929, at the same time as the reconstruction of Messina Cathedral.

8. Zona Falcata

Zona Falcata is a lively area and home to Messina’s busy port and some interesting historic landmarks. These include the  fort of San Salvator (Forte del Santissimo Salvatore) dating from the 17 th century and a 60-meter octagonal column ( Stele della Madonna della Lettera ) constructed in 1934, topped by a statue of Madonna della Lettera that locals call Madonnina, or “little Madonna”. This area encompasses the city’s Marina that runs parallel to a nice waterfront promenade overlooking the Strait of Messina.

9. Taste the Sicilian Cuisine

When in Sicily, tasting the local cuisine is a must! You can choose between a wide range of pasta dishes, seafood, and pizzas, to fresh salads and various international dishes. There are gelaterias and pastry shops on every corner, so make sure you treat your taste buds with premium quality gelatos and delicious Cannoli. Messina is renowned for “Granita”, a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water and various flavorings, served with a brioche bun, a must-try when in Sicily!

Check out Messina food tasting tours and activities

10. Taormina

This jewel of Sicily sits near Mount Etna, around 55 km/35 miles (a 45-minute to 1-hour drive) south of Messina cruise port. Perched on a 200-meter-high cliff, Taormina offers spectacular views of the sea and the Etna volcano. The history of Taormina dates back to before Ancient Greece established its first colony on Sicily in 734 BCE. Today, visitors can admire the remarkably preserved Teatro Antico which dates from the 3rd century BC, probably one of the most stunning ancient theaters in the world.

Corso Umberto is the main street that runs through the heart of the old town and is filled with luxury boutiques, designer stores, souvenir shops, restaurants, gelaterias, cafes and small businesses. At one end of Corso Umberto Street, Piazza IX Aprile offers the most beautiful views of the bay below and Mount Etna. While there, make sure you check out the medieval Duomo di Taormina and Villa Communale , a peaceful oasis offering breathtaking coastal views.

From Messina cruise port, you can get to Taormina by train, bus, car, or with a shore excursion. Messina Centrale (central train and bus station) is located a 10-minute walk from the port. Trains are quite reliable and there are up to two departures per hour to Taormina. The ride can take from 30 minutes to 55 minutes one-way, depending on the train itinerary. You can check the timetables and prices at https://www.trenitalia.com/ . In Taormina, you should get off at Taormina-Giardini train station.

Taormina-Giardini train station is located below the hill, so you’ll need to take a local minibus to take you to Taormina’s old town where all the attractions are located. This local mini bus is red-colored and runs frequently in high season. The timetables are displayed on the board in front of the train station. The one-way ticket costs around 1.10€ and the ride takes about 15 minutes. The minibus will drop you off at Piazza S.Pancrazio, which is in front of the Corso Umberto Street entrance. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the train station and it will cost you around 20-25€ per vehicle one way.

You can also take an intercity bus from Messina to Taormina. Intercity buses in Sicily are operated by “Interbus” company and they depart from Messina central station. The ride can take from 1h 10 mins to 1h45 mins one way, depending on the itinerary. In Taormina, the bus will drop you off at Piazza S. Pancrazio, from where you can walk into the old town. Terminal Interbus Taormina (bus terminus) is located 550 m (less than a 10-minute walk) from there.

The other few options to get from the port of Messina to Taormina are by renting a car , which I don’t recommend as it’s very challenging to find parking, especially in the high season. You will most likely need to leave your car in one of the car parks below the hill and then take the minibus as well. There is one car park right next to the train station. If you are considering a car, it would be better to arrange a private round-trip transfer to Taormina or arrange a tour with one of the taxi drivers in the port.

Lastly, you can book an organized shore excursion with your cruise ship or a reliable tour operator who will show you the highlights of Taormina. Guided tours are great because they will allow you to see most of Taormina in just one day, which is well worth it. After all, the place is a true fairytale! Read about the top 10 things to do in Taormina in my article Taormina Cruise Port (Giardini Naxos), Things to Do, Shore Excursions  

Check out Taormina tours and activities from Messina port

Watch my YouTube video on the top 10 things to do in Taormina!

11. Mount Etna

Another popular shore excursion is a day trip to the infamous Mount Etna, one of the most dangerous and active volcanoes in Europe known for its exceptional level of volcanic activity. It stands at a height of 3329 meters and is considered the tallest volcano in Europe after Mount Teide in Tenerife (Spain).

The volcano spreads across 59,000 hectares entirely in the province of Catania and has been erupting for a hundred thousand years. It’s constantly active, and you can see the fumes coming out of craters at all times. There are four big craters (crater Silvestri is the best known) and hundreds of smaller ones. There are also over 200 lava caves that you can explore in the company of a professional guide. The biggest eruption took place in 1669 when the entire city of Catania was completely devastated. The last eruption was in 2021.

The best way to get to Mount Etna from Messina cruise port is either by car or with an organized shore excursion. Etna is located approximately 100 km/62 miles (a 1h 30 mins drive) from Messina port and you can explore it on your own only partially (up to 2,500 m).

If you decide to rent a car, you will drive to Rifugio Sapienza which sits at 2,000 m. Here, you’ll find a large free parking, cafes, shops and tour vendors where you can book tours to explore the higher altitudes of the volcano. You can book a cable car , which is the most exciting option as it will take you to the summit, however, these are often canceled due to winds and bad weather conditions. Instead of refunding the tickets, they offer you an alternative (such as an off-road drive) so keep that in mind. The cable car general admission fee is 50€, and if you want a professional guide to accompany you, it will cost you more!

Alternatively, you can go hiking Mount Etna  (you can hike on your own until 2,500 m, but if you want to go to 3,000, you need a professional guide), book a 4×4 tour , or explore the caves with a guide. Whatever you choose to do, it’s worth it because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Keep in mind that roads leading to Etna are windy and it can be cold up in the mountain, so make sure to bring a jacket and comfortable shoes.

Shore excursions to Etna are also popular and there are many options available, from adventurous hikes to off-road rides, cave exploration and wine tasting. Upon booking a tour, check what’s included in it and see if there’s going to be an extra charge on-site.

Check out Etna tours and activities from Messina

12. The Godfather Movie Tour

The legendary movie “The Godfather” was filmed in Sicily and for the fans of the saga, this tour is a must! You will be visiting the town of Savoca, located near Taormina, around 43 km/27 miles (a 50-minute drive) south of Messina cruise port. In Savoca, you will see the 1971 filming location for the wedding, as well as the Bar Vitelli where Michael Corleone asked for Apollonia’s hand.

You will then continue to Forza d’Agrò village, which is located another 25 minutes drive, to see the square that served as the main square of Corleone during the Francis Ford Coppola movie. This tour is often offered as a combo with Taormina because they are located close to each other.

Explore The Godfather movie tours and activities

Whether you decide to stay in Messina and explore its highlights, or you decide to visit stunning Taormina, Etna, or Godfather filming locations, an awesome day is guaranteed! Make sure you plan your day ahead to get the most out of this amazing port of call!

Visit also our cruise port guides to Heraklion , Rhodes , Barcelona , Marseille , Ajaccio (Corsica) , Livorno , La Spezia

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your Mediterranean cruise experience with our “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide “- your ultimate companion to discovering the region’s hidden treasures and creating unforgettable memories; click below to purchase your copy today and embark on the voyage of a lifetime!

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my  disclaimer  here.

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Livorno Cruise Port Guide &The Best Things to Do

Does your cruise stop in livorno italy here’s everything you should know about the livorno cruise port..

On the west coast of Italy sits Livrono, a lively port city that is the gateway for cruisers to two of Italy’s most iconic cities: Pisa and Florence.

Perched within Tuscany, this colorful city is the third-largest in the region. Being so conveniently located near many of Italy’s popular attractions, there really is an abundance for cruisers to see and do.

As a travel advisor who specializes in cruises, I have extensive knowledge of cruise ports and the best shore excursions for each.

In this article, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about Livorno Cruise Port and how to best plan your visit.

I can plan your excursions (and cruise) for you FOR FREE!

Planning a cruise or excursion can be overwhelming and stressful. Let me take care of it for you – I can book your cruise or excursions at no additional cost.

Where is Livorno Cruise Port Located?

Livorno Cruise Port is located within the main Port of Livorno which sits right beside Livorno city, on the northwest coast of Italy.

Within the Tuscany region in Italy, Livorno is the closest cruise port to Pisa and Florence.

Pisa is a 40-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute train journey from Livorno Cruise Port and Florence is a 1.5-hour taxi ride or train journey from the cruise terminal.

The Livorno Cruise Port is vast with berths that can accommodate up to 8 cruise ships at any one time. The berths are dotted around the harbor, on different piers.

Beside each berth are a taxi rank, tourist information center, car rental stand, and opportunities to book day trips and tours. 

How to Get to Livorno City Center from the Cruise Port

The cruise port is located within a working industrial port and to journey from the cruise port to Livorno city, you’d have to travel through the working part of the port which is in fact not permitted on foot for health and safety reasons.

The good news is that the port offers a shuttle service from the cruise terminal to Piazza Grande, in the city center.

From Piazza Grande, it’s a 30-minute walk to Livorno Centrale, the main train station in the city.

Alternatively, there is a taxi rank beside every cruise terminal so you can grab a taxi directly to your destination.

Are There Free Shuttles From Livorno Cruise Port?

There are shuttle buses to Livorno city center offered to every cruise ship passenger. However, the cost depends on your cruise liner. Some cruise lines offer shuttles for free to their cruise passengers, and others charge a fee that you can expect to be around €5.

Can You Walk into Livorno from Your Cruise Ship?

It isn’t possible to walk from the cruise terminal into Livorno city center.

Health and safety regulations don’t permit walking in the industrial port. Even if it was allowed, the distance between the cruise ship berths and the city is very great and it would take you over an hour to walk into Livorno which isn’t practical.

There are however shuttles available that will take you from Livorno Cruise Port straight into the city of Livorno dropping you at Piazza Grande, a key square in the middle of the city.

Are there Taxis Available from Livorno Cruise Port?

Yes, there is a taxi rank beside every cruise ship in Livorno Cruise Port which will have enough taxis in it to accommodate all passengers looking to get a taxi.

Best Shore Excursions from the Livorno Cruise Port

Livorno Cruise Port is one of the busiest cruise ports in Italy due to its fantastic central location near many of Italy’s most extraordinary attractions.

There’s a host of things to see and do nearby. I’ll delve into some of my favorites below.

1. Leaning Tower of Pisa

Only a 40-minute drive or 20-minute train ride from Livorno city center, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa really is a must for anyone visiting Livorno! The 56-meter high 14th-century tower can be found in the heart of the city of Pisa.

The tower is located beside the impressive Cattedrale di Pisa (Cathedral), and Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptist Church), enabling you to marvel at a number of incredible landmarks on your visit.

Trains run between Livorno and Pisa a couple of times per hour making it a quick and convenient way to journey between the two cities. From Pisa station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the famous tower.

Guided Tour

• Small group walking tour for a more personalized experience
• Expert local guide with insider knowledge
• Pre-reserved tickets for the leaning tower of Pisa

Florence and Pisa

• Port pick up and drop-off
• Professional guide
• Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
• Guaranteed on-time return to the pier

Alternatively, buses run every 10 minutes between the station and Torre 1, a bus stop just outside the square where the tower is found.

You can book a guided tour of Pisa which includes admission tickets  such as this one.

Another way to reach the Leaning Tower of Pisa is on a guided tour from Livorno.  This full-day tour  combines a visit to the tower with a trip to Florence, another incredible city in Italy.

2. Florence

Florence is the vibrant capital of the Tuscany region in Italy. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the city is famed for its stunning medieval architecture and monuments as well as museums.

It’s no surprise that a day trip to Florence is a must for many cruisers who arrive at Livorno Cruise Port.

Florence can be reached via train. Trains run from Livorno to Florence several times per day, roughly once per hour. The journey is direct (you don’t need to change trains) and takes 1 and a half hours each way.

Livorno Shore Excursion to Florence

• Hassle-free round-trip transfers from Livorno to Florence
• Convenient pick-up and dropoff points at the cruise port and city center
• A complimentary map of Florence’s historic center to explore on your own
• About 4.5 hours of free time to take in the Renaissance highlights

A taxi between Livorno Cruise Port and Florence also takes 1 and a half hours each way but is considerably more expensive than the train.

Perhaps the easiest way to visit Florence is via an arranged shore excursion with a guide, such as  this one . The tour takes you directly from Livorno Cruise Port to Florence and allows you over 4 hours to see the highlights of the city.

3. Cinque Terre

Just north of Livorno is a beautiful stretch of coastline known as Cinque Terre, characterized by colorful settlements which are stacked upon cliffs in bays that arc around turquoise waters.

The area encompasses 5 fishing villages, which make up part of the Cinque Terre National Park , an area of outstanding natural beauty.

You can journey to Cinque Terre from Livorno Cruise Port via taxi. Alternatively, you can book a tour.  This private tour  spans over 8 hours and visits different villages along the coastline.

• Private Tour
• Private luxury vehicle with driver for 8 hours
• Private official tour guide for 4 hours in Cinque Terre
• Private pick up and drop off in Livorno Cruise Port
• Local Taxes

Cinque Terre and Pisa

• All Fees and Taxes
• Private transportation
• WiFi on board
• Bottled water
• Pisa driving tour plus a stop at the Leaning Tower, Duomo, and Baptistery

There are tours available that combine a visit to Cinque Terre with Pisa, such as  this one . This is perfect if you wish to visit both beautiful locations during your day in Livorno.

4. San Gimignano

Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany is this charming town, oozing with history and encircled by 13th-century walls. The UNESCO World Heritage Site town is famous for its incredible medieval architecture and striking 11 towers.

Not only is the town itself gorgeous to admire, but it’s surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.

One of the best things to do in San Gimignano is to try some of the delicious locally-produced wine and produce.   This food and wine-tasting tour   has exceptional online reviews and allows you to sample local cuisine from a traditional organic farm.

Food and Wine Tasting

• Visit a family-run organic farm and winery
• Taste three wines
• End with wine and “cantucci” biscuits

Cooking Class

• Learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes in a local farmhouse kitchen
• Prepare up to six course

 Volterra & San Gimignano

• Sample five different Chianti wines
• Air-conditioned vehicle

San Gimignano is also the perfect location to try a  traditional Tuscan cooking class.

The best way to reach San Gimignano from Livorno port is to take a taxi. The journey should take around 1 and a half hours.

Another great way to visit the town is on a shore excursion tour, such as  this one , which visits both San Gimignano and Volterra, another gorgeous town.

5. Fortezza Vecchia

One of the main attractions in Livorno itself is this 11th-century fort which is right in the middle of Livorno port. It’s a spectacular fortress that is well worth admiring either before or after your main shore excursion.

This fortress, also known as the Old Fort, is the symbol of Livorno. It’s open from Tuesdays to Sundays, 9am to 8pm and is free to visit . There is a cafe right next to the fort called Fortezza. 

6. Wine Tasting

Tuscany is an area that’s renowned for its wine production. Therefore, if you’re into your wines, embarking on a wine tasting tour really is one of the best ways to get to know the region.

This full-day wine tour  starts in Livorno and takes you to some charming spots where you can sample the local wine. You’ll also have the opportunity to wander round Livorno city and even explore the bustling local market.

Full Day Wine Tour

•  Survey the city’s two impressive fortresses
• Sanctuary of Montenero
•  Stop at one of Bolgheri’s prestigious wineries to tour the cellars
•  Village of Castagneto Carducci

Chianti and Tuscany

• Explore the Tuscan countryside
• Learn about Chianti wines from your private driver-guide
• Sample local wine and olive oil in Chianti

This private wine tour  takes you to the Chianti wine region where you will visit vineyards and learn all about the wine-making process before getting to sample some. The tour will pick you up and drop you off right by your cruise ship.

Just 1 hour north from Livorno via road is Lucca, a city perched on the Serchio river. Nestled at the base of the Apuan Alps, this striking city is steeped in history, housing beautiful ancient churches, a clock tower and even traces of a Roman amphitheater, which are hidden behind the city walls.

It’s a 45 taxi ride to reach Lucca . Alternatively, Lucca can be reached via train. In order to visit the city, you’ll have to change trains in Pisa. The train to Pisa from Livorno takes 20 minutes and the second train from Pisa to Lucca takes 30 minutes.

Tours of Lucca from Livorno are also available. Sitting just north of Pisa, many tours combine a visit to both cities, such as  this one.

Livorno to Lucc

• Free WiFi on-board On-board
• Walking tour in Lucca with escort
• Free map of Lucca and Pisa
• Access to the Leaning Tower

8. Livorno City

For your day docked at Livorno Cruise Port, you may simply wish to explore the surrounding city, which although not as well known as Pisa or Florence, houses its own unique gems.

One of the best ways to explore the city is via a food and market tour.  This walking tour takes you to Livrono’s central market, known as Mercato Centrale.

This is in fact one of the largest markets in Europe. At this lively market, you’ll be able to sample local dishes, snacks, and drinks.

If you are interested in seeing the key sights of the city then a   hop-on hop-off bus tour  of Livorno may be what you’re looking for.

Getting From Livorno Airport to the Cruise Port

The closest airport to the Livorno cruise terminal is Pisa Airport which is 20 km (12.4 miles) north of Livorno.

The easiest way to travel between Pisa Airport and Livorno Cruise Port is by taxi or  private transfer  which typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes.

🚘 Book a private transfer to the cruise port here

Taking the train is also an option, although it takes considerably longer and may be challenging if you have lots of luggage.

It’s roughly a 20-minute walk between Pisa Airport and Pisa Centrale, the train station. It’s then a 20-minute train journey to Livorno station, followed by a 30-minute walk to Piazza Grande, where the shuttle buses to the cruise port stop.

Places to Stay Near Livorno Cruise Port

If you are looking for a convenient place to stay near Livorno Cruise Port then Agave in Città , a highly rated apartment with fantastic views over the canal is a fantastic option.

Boasting exceptional online reviews, this accommodation is conveniently located very close to the cruise port, just 600 meters away. A concierge, bar, and indoor pool are stationed at the property.

A little further away from the cruise port is 900 B&B , a charming B&B in a beautifully restored building that serves a selection of fresh pastries for breakfast.

Hotel Universal is another great option, although it sits just outside the city. Perched right on the seafront, the views from this hotel are exceptional.

Best Time to Visit Livorno

The best time to visit Tuscany is between April and October when the weather is more favorable. The height of summer (June, July, and August) will provide the best weather. The summer months are also the busiest time to visit Livorno and key sights can be very crowded.

➡️ To strike the best balance between good weather and fewer crowds, I’d recommend visiting Tuscany outside of the holiday season. April, May, September, and October are all great months.

Cruise Lines that Visit Livorno Cruise Port

A large number of cruise liners stop at Livorno Cruise Port. These include:

• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Viking Ocean
• Royal Caribbean
• Disney Cruise Line
• Marella Cruises
• P&O Cruises
• Saga Ocean Cruises
• Princess Cruises

Livorno Cruise Port FAQS

How far is livorno center from the cruise port.

Livorno city center is right beside the cruise port. However the sheer size of the cruise port and health and safety guidelines mean that you can’t walk into Livorno city from the cruise terminal. A shuttle bus between the two takes around 10 minutes.

How to get to Livorno train station from the cruise port

There are a number of ways that you can journey to Livorno train station from the cruise terminal.

The easiest way is via taxi. A taxi rank beside each cruise ship allows you to journey directly from your cruise ship to the train station, which will take around 15 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take the shuttle bus from the cruise port to Piazza Grande in the city center, and from there, it’s a 30-minute walk to Linorvo Train Station.

How far is Pisa from the cruise port?

Pisa is 23 km (14 miles) north of Livorno Cruise Port and can be reached via a 40 minute taxi ride or a 20 minute train ride from Linorvo Train Station.

How far is Florence from Livorno cruise port?

Florence is 93 km (57.8 miles) east of Livorno Cruise Port and can be reached by either a 1-and-a-half-hour train or taxi ride from Livorno.

Can you see Florence and Pisa on the same day?

Yes, it is possible to visit both Florence and Pisa on the same day.

I’d recommend journeying between the two cities via either taxi or as part of a tour. Taking public transport such as the train will certainly be more challenging.

There are a number of guided tours available which will take you to both cities, such as  this one .

Final Thoughts on the Livorno Cruise Port

Livorno Cruise Port is a great destination to stop at on your cruise as it allows you the opportunity to visit some of the most iconic cities in Italy, such as Pisa and Florence.

The shuttle bus service offered by the port means it’s very easy to journey into the city and the number of shore excursions on offer here means that there really is no shortage of things to do.

Cruise Resources

These are my tried and true, favorite cruise-planning helpers:

➡️ Cruise Critic – for reviews, deck plans, and cabin choices

➡️ Parking – for saving on your long-term parking

➡️ Travel Insurance Master – Because, yes, you do need insurance

➡️ Trip Advisor –

For Reviewing Tours and Excursions

➡️ Viator – For Shore Excursions

➡️ Shore Excursions Group – More choices for small group excursions

➡️ Resort for a day Passes in Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas

➡️ Atlantis Day Pass

➡️Cruise Packing List for Caribbean or Alaska

➡️ Cruise Tips

➡️Also, if you don’t want the hassle and stress of booking your own cruise, I can do it for you at no additional cost! You can read more about

These products are services I have used myself and trust. Purchasing through the links above, helps me continue my blog at no additional cost to you, and I appreciate it so much!

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Cruise to Bari, Italy

Bari shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in bari, italy.

EXPLORE THE OLD TOWN

Scenic sight in old town Bari, Puglia (Apulia), southern Italy.

Bari Vecchia, the port’s old town, is a collage of architecture that spans more than a millennia. Pick your way through its tangle of winding, cobblestone alleys and spend some time exploring the medieval Basilica di San Nicola, or discovering the Roman ruins and ancient artifacts that lie beneath Bari Cathedral.

COME FOR THE CASTLES

The Castello Svevo is a castle in the Apulian city of Bari.

If you love fortresses and castles, you’ll have several to choose from during your cruise to Bari, Italy. The most famous is the Castello Normanno-Svevo, built in the 12th century and currently used for art exhibitions. There’s also the impressive Castello Angioino, situated right on the picturesque waterfront.

BEACH BREAK

Bari, Italy offers easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Adriatic. One of the most captivating is Torre Sant’Andrea, about two hours away by car. Its towering sea stacks, white cliffs, and crystal-clear water will leave a lasting impression on you, and the little villages nearby are charming as can be.

LOCAL CUISINE

Bari is a haven for foodies — it is the capital of Puglia, a region renowned for its cuisine. Pop into a local trattoria and order a dish of orecchiette with tomato and fresh basil, soft white burrata, savory panzerotti stuffed with mushrooms, mozzarella and caper fillings, and anything made with fresh seafood caught off the coast.

From mainstream retail outlets to boutiques filled with trendy finds by up-and-coming designers, fashion is everywhere in Bari. Via Sparano is a great place to shop — it’s lined with stores by big brands and local labels selling everything from clothing and cosmetics to regionally sourced olive oil and wine.

Best Deals to Bari, Italy

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Venice (Marghera, Italy)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Mediterranean - Black Sea

Local Time 2024-04-19 19:45

Port Venice cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Venice, Marghera, Italy. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Venice (Venezia) is a major seaport in the Adriatic (northeastern Italy) and one of Italy's most visited ferry and cruise ports serving turnaround operations (roundtrip Mediterranean itineraries) and also connecting to North Africa and Middle East. The city is the capital of Veneto (one of Italy's 20 regions) and has population over 260,000.

Venezia was established in the 7th century as a cluster of total 124 island settlements. Current-day Venice City is spread across 118 isles ( Venetian Islands ) separated by canals and interlinked by 400+ bridges. All these isles are in the Venetian Lagoon - a bay between the mouths of two rivers (Po and Piave). The entire Venetian Lagoon and part of Venezia are designated as UNESCO Site.

Venice City is currently served by two cruise ports - Porto Venice (locode ITVCE, for smaller ships and riverboats) and Porto Marghera (for large liners).

• Marghera was developed to serve as the city's commercial/cargo and industrial port (outside downtown) and is one of Europe's largest coastal industrial zones.
• On April 9, 2022, was inaugurated Marghera's provisional dock/temporary berthing facility (at Liguria Quay/EUR 1,9 million project) dedicated to cruise liners.

The Port is managed by AdSPMAS/Autorita di Sistema Portuale del Mare Adriatico Settentrionale/Porti di Venezia e Chioggia (Port Authority of Venice and Chioggia).

(IMPORTANT) Port Venice cruise ship ban

On July 13, 2021, Italy permanently banned large cruise ships from entering the Venice Lagoon (via Giudecca Canal) and docking at downtown terminals. The ban (effective since August 1, 2021) prohibits all vessels with GT 25,000+ tonnes.

• As an alternative cruise port is being developed Port Marghera, with expected completion in 2021-Q4. By this ban, only small-sized vessels ( passenger ferries , cargo ships, riverboats) can navigate the Giudecca and enter Venice's downtown.
• In July 2021, Costa and MSC replaced Venice (as homeport) with other Italian ports. Passengers were actually collected at Venice, then via buses transported to a different Italian port ( Trieste or Monfalcone).

In mid-June 2020, RCI-Royal Caribbean replaced Venice (as homeport) with Ravenna . The change affected the Rhapsody of the Seas ' Mediterranean schedule 2021 (May 1 through October 23). Ravenna is approx 144 km (90 mi road distance) to the south from Venice, or ~2,5 hours drive (via SS309 / Ravenna-Chioggia road).

• The itinerary change was explained with "increased concerns regarding the future of cruising in Venice Italy due to port congestion and the ability to control port traffic".
• Customers with already purchased through RCI airfare received complimentary shuttle bus transportation (pre- and after-cruise). Optionally was offered purchasing bus transfers from both the Ravenna cruise terminal and/or the Venice Marco Polo Airport.

In September 2023, Fulvio Lino Di Blasio (Port Authority's President) announced that cruise ships will be allowed to use Stazione Marittima di Venezia starting in 2027-Q2. The new plan grants entry to relatively smaller vessels (with max volume 60,000 GT-tons and max length 250 m/820 ft). Like the big liners, they will be also banned from the San Marco basin (Guidecca Channel route) and instead will access Stazione Marittima using the Vittorio Emanuele III Channel route.

The larger cruise ships will continue to visit Venice via Port Marghera.

Fincantieri Marghera shipyard

Fincantieri (one of the world's largest shipbuilding companies ) owns the merchant shipbuilding yards Monfalcone (near Trieste ), Marghera (Venice), Sestri Ponente ( Genoa ), Ancona , Castellammare di Stabia (near Naples ) and Palermo Sicily . The company also owns the naval shipyards Riva Trigoso (Genoa) and Muggiano ( La Spezia ).

Next are listed all cruise ships constructed at the Marghera yard, by the year built.

• (1991) Pacific Dawn, Costa Classica
• (1993) MS Statendam, MS Maasdam, Costa Romantica
• (1994) MS Ryndam
• (1995) Sun Princess, Carnival Destiny-Sunshine
• (1996) MS Veendam, Dawn Princess
• (1997) MS Rotterdam
• (1998) Sea Princess, Disney Magic
• (1999) MS Volendam, Carnival Triumph-Sunrise, Disney Wonder
• (2000) MS Zaandam, MS Amsterdam
• (2000) P&O Oceana, Carnival Victory-Radiance
• (2001) MS Zuiderdam, plus two cruiseferies (Pride of Hull, Pride of Rotterdam)
• (2002) MS Oosterdam, Carnival Conquest
• (2003) Carnival Glory, Costa Fortuna, Costa Magica
• (2004) MS Westerdam, Carnival Valor, P&O Arcadia
• (2005) Costa Concordia, Carnival Liberty
• (2006) MS Noordam, Costa Serena, Carnival Splendor
• (2007) MS Eurodam, Queen Victoria, Carnival Freedom, P&O Ventura
• (2008) Ruby Princess, Costa Luminosa, Costa Pacifica
• (2009) MS Nieuw Amsterdam, Carnival Dream, Costa Deliziosa, P&O Azura
• (2010) Queen Elizabeth, Costa Favolosa, Carnival Magic
• (2011) Costa Fascinosa, Carnival Breeze
• (2013) Royal Princess
• (2014) Regal Princess, Costa Diadema
• (2015) P&O Britannia, Ponant Le Lyrial, Viking Star
• (2016) MS Koningsdam, Carnival Vista, Seabourn Encore, Seven Seas Explorer, Viking Sea
• (2017) Majestic Princess, MSC Seaside, Viking Sky, Viking Sun, Silver Muse
• (2018) MS Nieuw Statendam, Carnival Horizon, MSC Seaview, Viking Orion, Seabourn Ovation
• (2019) Sky Princess, Costa Venezia, Carnival Panorama, Viking Jupiter
• (2020) Enchanted Princess, Costa Firenze, Scarlet Lady, Seven Seas Splendor
• (2021) MS Rotterdam, MSC Seashore, Valiant Lady, Viking Venus
• (2022) Discovery Princess, MSC Seascape, Resilient Lady, Norwegian Prima, Cunard-tbn, Viking Mars, Viking Neptune
• (2023) Norwegian Viva, MSC Explora 1, Virgin-tbn, Princess-tbn
• (2024) NCL-tbn, MSC Explora 2
• (2025) NCL-tbn, MSC Explora 3, Princess-tbn
• (2026) NCL-tbn, MSC Explora 4
• (2027) NCL-tbn

The list of brands/shipowners includes CCL-Carnival , MSC , Costa , Princess , HAL-Holland America , Virgin , P&O (UK and Australia) , Disney , Viking OCEAN , Ponant .

Port Venice

Porto di Venezia is a seaport in northeastern Italy, ranked Italy's 8th largest commercial port and also among the largest and most important cruise ports in southern Europe (Mediterranean Sea). As shipping volumes, in 2006 the port handled around 30,937 million cargo tons and over 1,453 million passengers (ferry and cruise).

Port Venice is currently the 2nd largest Mediterranean cruise port (after Barcelona ) by passenger volumes. However, due to environmentalist campaigns (since Concordia's sinking in 2012) to stop large-sized liners in Venice (vessels over 10 decks high), Port Venice started progressively to lose ship calls. In 2017, their number dropped over 10% - from 529 (in 2016) to 470. Cruiseship passenger numbers decreased by 11,4% (to around 1,4 million), which resulted in an income fall. Since the mid-1990s, cruising tourism is an important income source for the city and its citizens.

Environmentalists demand larger cruise vessels to stop navigating along Guidecca Canal to reach the seaport, as the route takes them within just 300 m (1000) ft of Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square). Besides the visual impact, other concerns are the damage caused by marine diesel engine pollution and the vessels' water displacement. New port regulations will require cruise ships to reduce emissions by switching to LSDO (lower-sulfur diesel fuel) before entering Venice Lagoon .

The controversy over whether cruise ships should be allowed into Venice was heightened right after Costa Concordia ship's capsizing near Giglio Island. Following the accident, the government issued a law banning cruise liners with gross tonnage over 96,000 GT from navigating the Guidecca Canal. The number of smaller cruise vessels (over 40,000 GT) along the channel was limited to 5 per day. In 2014, this law came into effect, just to be thrown out 2 months later by the Venice Court of Appeal.

In mid-June, 2017, over 18,000 Venetians voted in an unofficial referendum about banning large cruise vessels that navigate near St Mark Square. Activists set up a total of 60 polling booths, where 17,874 citizens voted to eject the ships which produce waves shaking the city's wooden foundations.

• In September 2017, three of the world's largest cruise companies ( Carnival , Royal Caribbean , MSC ) run shipping simulations on large liners navigating the Vittorio Emanuele III Channel route (Stazione Marittima) as a proposed alternative to the banned Guidecca Channel route.
• Since November 2017, Venice seaport access (through Giudecca Canal) is denied to cruise liners with GT tonnage over 100,000 tons. Instead, the vessels are rerouted to Port Marghera, from where passengers are ferried to downtown.

Since September 2019, Venice City charges day-trippers a tax of up to EUR 10 / USD 11 pp, which brings tens of millions of EUR annually. Of the ~24 million tourists in 2019, ~15 million were day-trippers. The new tourist tax (entrance fee) was approved by the Italian Government and contained in the country's 2019 budget. The new charge is included in the cost of hotels, trains, buses and cruise ship tickets. The tax ranges between EUR 2.50 to EUR 10 per person, depending on arrival time (low or high season).

Regularly scheduled cruiseferries link Venice City with Ancona and also with Slovenia ( Piran ), Croatia ( Pula , Rovinj , Umag, Porec) and Greece ( Kerkyra-Corfu , Igoumenitsa , Patras ).

• Venice-Piran route is served by Venezia Lines with 1 weekly crossing (travel time 2,5 hours).
• Venice-Pula route is served by Venezia Lines (4 weekly crossings) and Atlas Kompas (3 weekly crossings), travel time is 3 hours.
• Venice-Porec route is served by Venezia Lines (7 weekly crossings) and Atlas Kompas (5 weekly crossings), travel time is 3-3,5 hours.
• Venice-Rovinj route is served by Venezia Lines (7 weekly crossings) and Atlas Kompas (3 weekly crossings), travel time is 2,5-3,5 hours.
• Venice-Umag route is served by Venezia Lines (1 weekly crossing) and Atlas Kompas (1 weekly crossing), travel time is 2,5-3,5 hours.
• Venice-Corfu route is served by Minoan Lines (2 weekly crossings, time 26,5 hours) and ANEK Superfast (1 weekly crossing, time 25 hours).
• Venice-Igoumenitsa route is served by Minoan Lines (2 weekly crossings, time 28,5 hours) and ANEK Superfast (2 weekly crossings, time 25,5 hours).
• Venice-Patras route is served by Minoan Lines (3 weekly crossings, time 30,5 hours) and ANEK Superfast (2 weekly crossings, time 32 hours).
• Venice- Ancona route is served by Minoan Lines with 2 weekly crossings (travel time 6,5 hours).

MOSE - Venice flood barrier project

MOSE project is designed to protect Venice and Venetian Lagoon from flooding caused by high tides (up to 3 m / 10 ft). The integrated system consists of rows of large mobile gates at 3 inlets (Lido, Malamocco and Chioggia) through which Adriatic Sea water enters and leaves the Venetian Lagoon.

These gates are able to temporarily isolate the lagoon from the sea during high tides as they open and close separately thus controlling the water flow.

MOSE system's control center is in Venice's Arsenal, where 9 people constantly monitor the lagoon's conditions. The monitoring staff's training started in 2011 by simulating real-time flood defense operations. During that period was also collected data about water levels, waves, water pressure, and fresh river flood.

Flooding due to high tides mires Venice during winter months. During high tide forecasts, sirens all over the city sound a warning, and real-time information is provided (online and via mobile phones). Other measures are setting up temporary elevated platforms in city parts with heavy pedestrian traffic. High tides usually last 2 1/2 hours. The flood of November 4, 1966, saw water levels reaching up to 194 cm (6 ft). This was the end of the agriculture in the lagoon and also resulted in the death of the majority of its plants. Previously, the lagoon was a winemaking region.

The Mose barrier concept was first proposed in 1988. The consortium Venezia Nuova was contracted by Italy's Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. Construction works (simultaneously at all 3 lagoon inlets) started in 2003. The project also included other anti-flood measures - coastal reinforcement, raising quaysides, and lagoon improvements. The project was 85% completed in 2014. In 2016, the gates arrived and were inserted into their concrete foundations.

The project's total cost was EUR 5,4 billion (GBP 3,9 billion), with its completion scheduled for 2020.

Construction works on the MOSE system were slowed due to investigations into corruption, with allegations of bribery and illegal political party financing. The investigation resulted in 35 arrests (in June 2014). Among the arrested was Consorzio Venezia Nuova's former president, who was accused of diverting funds to Venice's mayor for financing his campaign for office in 2010.

Construction works included pre-building concrete foundations (23,000 tons each) and then lowering them into the lagoon. Gates have spares (for each inlet), which allow being removed every 5 years (for maintenance) without interrupting the barrier's service. All hinges on the gates are equipped with a waterproof camera that permits removal operations to be accurately monitored and controlled.

The commercial harbor is impacted each time the gates are lifted. The amount of electricity used for the operations is also considerable.

According to CLIA (data 2019), in Italy, the ship cruise industry generates an annual turnover of ~EUR 16,2 billion (USD 19,1B / GBP 14B) and supports 120,000+ jobs (direct and indirect).

Venice cruise terminal

Port Venice is the leader not only in one traffic segment. It is the largest Mediterranean cruise port (in terms of annual passenger shipping numbers) and also main cargo port. Roundtrip cruise itineraries from Venice (homeport) go mainly to ports in Adriatic Sea (Croatia, Montenegro, Albania) and Aegean Sea (Greece and Turkey). Port Venice has 10 multifunctional (cargo) terminals and 6 dedicated cruise piers/passenger terminals.

Venice Cruise Port Terminal (VCT or Terminal Venezia Passeggeri) is Europe's 3rd busiest cruise port and world's 13th largest. Each year, Port Venice handles thousand cruise ship calls and over 1 million passengers. The seaport is located at the end of Venice (the road to the continental Italy, at the 4th km).

The seaport is in the Venetian Lagoon and the Porto di Lido channel links it to Adriatic Sea (Mediterranean). Over 20 cruise companies are hosted by Venice Cruise Terminal. Major companies, like NCL Norwegian Cruise Lines, Carnival, Royal Caribbean and MSC, homeport large-sized liners here.

The cruise port has 3 main quays, the biggest being Marittima. It has 3 passenger terminals with capacities to handle world's largest liners. The cruise port comprises TM Quay, Piave Quay (berth 117), Tagliamento Quay (berths 107, 109, 110, 112) and Isonzo Quay (berths 18 and 20). Two terminals serve smaller ships - San Basilio (berths 29 to 31) and Santa Marta (berths 24 to 28). All these docks are in the Giudecca Canal.

On November 8, 2017, was officially announced the decision to not allow Venice seaport access (through Giudecca Canal) to cruise liners of GT tonnage over 100,000 tons. Instead, the vessels are rerouted to Port Marghera, from where passengers are ferried to Venice.

Venice is known to be the “Queen of the Adriatic”. It is one of the most romantic world cities. Venice can enchant anyone with its breathtaking palazzos, canals and beautiful bridges. This city is so spectacular, that you will need at least three days to enjoy some of its wonders. Spend a day in a gondola at the narrow channels and be amazed by Venice. Go to Murano, the Venetian glassmaking center, or visit some of the famous places near the St Marks Square:

• Basilica: the place where you can see Pala d’Oro. This famous altarpiece dates since 976. It is made of solid gold by the Byzantine goldsmiths and it has precious gems encrustations.
• Doge’s Palace: situated right to the Basilica. You can see the Council Hall, plaques of the Doges (all 76, except Doge 55) and the world-famous Bridge of Sighs (the last walking place for the criminals before their transfer from the palace into the jail).
• Campanile: dating since 912. The Campanile is the third building you have to see. There is astonishing city view from the top of it. This is not the exact original of the building, but a rebuilding with the original materials after its collapse in 1902.

From Venice City are offered tours to Bologna - located approx 130 km (80 ml) to the southwest. Train travel time is 1,5 hours.

Venice tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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