Car Rental Civitavecchia

With the rolling green countryside, quaint Italian villages and exciting sights along the way, driving through the town and beyond is a real delight.

If you're arriving into Civitavecchia by ferry, the E840 road will transport you from the port into the town and further along to neighbouring Tarquinia.

The SS1 road network runs adjacent to the coast and is one of the routes to follow if you want to drive from Civitavecchia to Rome. It'll usually take you around an hour and a half to drive to the capital.

You'll need to follow the SS1 east to Villaggio del Fanciullo. From here, branch onto the E80 highway into the wider Metropolitan City of Rome. The E80 will merge into the A91 road which will take you into the city via the Via Cristoforo Colombo road. Park up your rental car and experience the wealth of historical and religious sites throughout this world-famous city.    

The roads throughout Civitavecchia itself can be quite narrow, and some are partially or fully pedestrianized, so pay attention to signs and reduce your speed where necessary.

When driving in and around Civitavecchia in your rental car, you'll need to be aware of the local laws and regulations. On major highways such as the E80, the speed limit is often 130km/h. In built-up areas, the limit is often 50km/h or lower. Outside of built-up areas, the limits usually range from 90 to 100km/h. These can vary, so always check the signs.

Civitavecchia is a charming port town where boats both large and small come to dock, in order to explore the scenic coast of western Italy.

Historic sites and cultural attractions can be found nearby, while the wider region offers much to experience beyond.

Discover Roman history in the baths

Explore the ancient Taurine Baths just east of the town – an archaeological site brimming with historic relics.

Used during the Roman era, the Taurine Baths were first built using sulphurous waters said to have therapeutic properties, and used by the Romans for treating minor ailments. Visit today to see the original mosaic flooring, the terracotta utensils, and the various baths, dressing rooms and thermal sauna rooms known as the ‘sudatorium’.

The ruins are well preserved, and it's interesting to see the sheer scale of this ancient attraction as you explore.

Although there are no opportunities to take a dip in these baths, there are other thermal waters in the area. The authentic Ficoncella Thermal Baths are located northeast of the town, around ten minutes’ drive away. Originally built in the Roman age, the baths are filled with water that's plunged from an ancient natural spring.

Five pools have a range of temperatures that react with the natural salts, and are located on the hillside close to the town, with views out over the rolling landscape.

Explore the picturesque port area

Civitavecchia’s portside town is one of a kind, where you can explore the promenade for astonishing views over the glistening, vast open water.

Looming over the harbour is the grand Fort Michelangelo, a huge military structure which dates to the 16^th century. This was an important part of the Lazio defence system which once protected the town from pirate attacks. 

Today, the fort is surrounded by beautiful green parks and a long promenade that offers exceptional views out across the harbour. Visit the fort to look upon its interesting octagonal towers and take a fascinating step back in time.  

Throughout the year, the marina area hosts various vibrant events, from live music and art exhibits to street food and markets – which usually fill up the Piazza Della Vita square. Simply check in advance to see what’s on.

Experience the natural beauty of Italy 

Around 9km north-west from the port you can find the beautiful setting of ‘La Frasca’ natural park, with its long ribbon of pine trees. Enjoy strolling through the shaded woodland or stopping off for a picnic in the designated areas.

This area’s coastline is especially rewarding to explore. With a shore made out of clay, sand and rocks, the seafront is both picturesque and full of history, as it's said that Roman artifacts have been found along the coast. Enjoy the peace and quiet while taking in the natural setting of the forest, contrasting against the rugged coastline.

Explore the charming setting of this portside town and much, much more when you rent a car in Civitavecchia. Reserve direct today.