Family-Friendly Adventures in Civitavecchia !

Rome Civitavecchia Cruise Port (Civitavecchia Terminal Crociere)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary from Rome Civitavecchia Cruise Port

Day 1: Arrival & Local Exploration

Morning

- Arrive at Civitavecchia Cruise Port, one of the busiest cruise ports in Europe, located just an hour from Rome by train.

- Begin with a leisurely breakfast at one of the cafés near the port, enjoying local pastries like cornetti.

Afternoon

- Head to the nearby Forte Michelangelo, easily accessible by a 10-minute walk from the port. Built by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century, the fort is a great introductory lesson in Italian art and history.

- Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant, trying specialties like fresh seafood pasta.

Evening

- Take a stroll along the Civitavecchia Promenade for panoramic sea views and a playground stop for the kids.

Day 2: Day Trip to Rome

Morning

- Board a train to Rome from Civitavecchia Station, a 5-minute drive from the cruise port. Trains run every 30 minutes, and the journey is a scenic route into the heart of the Eternal City.

- Start at the Colosseum, a must-see for its grandeur and history. Booking a guided tour can help bring the ancient stories to life for kids.

Afternoon

- Walk to the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where children can explore ruins and gardens, offering a glimpse into the life of ancient Rome.

- Grab a gelato near the Pantheon and marvel at its architectural wonder.

Evening

- Return to Civitavecchia by train. For dinner, opt for a family-friendly pizzeria near the port, ending your day with a classic Italian pizza.

Day 3: Departure

- Before departing, visit the local market for souvenirs and a quick snack. Enjoy a smoothie or a slice of pizza before saying "Arrivederci" to Civitavecchia!

This itinerary offers a blend of history, culture, and relaxed family time, ensuring that both kids and adults have a memorable stay at Rome Civitavecchia Cruise Port.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Odescalchi Castle (Castello Odescalchi)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Odescalchi Castle

Morning: Arrival at Odescalchi Castle

Kick off your adventure at the majestic Odescalchi Castle, located in Bracciano, just an hour"s drive from Rome. For a scenic route, catch a train from Rome’s Stazione San Pietro to Bracciano station, followed by a short taxi ride to the castle. Upon arrival, dive into the rich tapestry of history that cloaks the castle walls.

Castle Tour

Embark on a guided tour available in English, which start hourly. Explore grand halls, secret passages, and the medieval armory, showcasing the life of nobility in the Renaissance. The castle is famously known for hosting Tom Cruise"s wedding, adding a touch of Hollywood allure.

Lunch Break

Enjoy a picnic by Lake Bracciano, just a stone’s throw from the castle. You can pick up local Italian delicacies from nearby shops to enjoy a tranquil lunch with breathtaking views over the lake.

Afternoon: Falconry Show and Exploration

Post-lunch, treat the family to a thrilling falconry show held in the castle grounds. Learn about this ancient hunting technique and watch majestic birds of prey in action. Following the show, take a leisurely walk around the medieval garden, a perfect spot for the kids to play and explore.

Interactive Family Workshop

Participate in a family-friendly workshop where you can learn about medieval crafts. Activities often include coin minting, calligraphy, or even a mini knight’s training session!

Departure

Wrap up your visit by late afternoon, ensuring you leave enough time to browse the castle"s gift shop for unique souvenaries before heading back to the station.

Fact

Did you know that Odescalchi Castle dates back to the 15th century and has been the fortress of important historical figures including Pope Sixtus IV?

Enjoy a day steeped in history, fun, and breathtaking scenery at Castello Odescalchi!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia (Necropoli Etrusche di Cerveteri e Tarquinia)

Why Visit?

Embark on a fascinating journey back in time with your family to the Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia, two of UNESCO"s recognized heritage sites that showcase the intriguing world of the ancient Etruscans.

Day 1: Necropolis of Cerveteri

Start your adventure at the Necropolis of Cerveteri, located about 40 minutes from Rome by car. You can easily drive there or take a train from Rome to Marina di Cerveteri, followed by a short bus ride to the site. The highlight here is the Banditaccia Necropolis, a vast, ancient city of the dead that resembles a residential township. Wander through streets lined with tumulus tombs, designed like circular mounds, which create a city-like layout. Each mound opens into a burial chamber that families used over generations. The site is also equipped with interactive signs and audio guides that make the experience educational and engaging for kids.

Day 2: Necropolis of Tarquinia

On the next day, head to the Necropolis of Tarquinia, about an hour"s drive from Cerveteri. This site is famous for its underground tombs, beautifully adorned with vibrant frescoes that depict daily life and mythology of the Etruscans, providing insights into their culture and beliefs. The Tomb of the Leopards and the Tomb of Hunting and Fishing are must-sees for their exquisite, colorful artwork.

Both locations have visitor centers with restrooms and picnic areas, perfect for family breaks. Consider guided tours specifically tailored for families, which include interactive activities and storytelling to keep the little ones engaged.

These ancient sites not only offer a glimpse into a mysterious civilization but also provide a unique, educational experience that combines history, art, and archaeology in a fun way. Don"t forget to bring a camera to capture the fascinating moments of your family exploring these ancient wonders!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.