Italy’s Mediterranean cruise ports connect you to brilliant destinations you won’t forget. The big ones include Genoa, Italy’s biggest seaport, and Civitavecchia, where you can pop over to Rome. Naples puts you right by Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius, whilst Sorrento and Amalfi lead straight to the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Each port has its own setup and ways to get about – from Livorno with quick links to Florence and Pisa, to La Spezia where you can easily reach Cinque Terre. Whether you fancy historic sites, amazing food, or lovely coastlines, these ports are your way into Italy’s most beloved spots. Let’s look at what makes each port special and share some handy tips.
Genoa
Located on the northwestern coast of Italy, Genoa is one of the country’s biggest seaports and a major cruise ship hub in the Mediterranean.
You’ll find a city steeped in maritime history – it’s the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and a place where medieval buildings sit right next to modern port facilities.
When you wander through the historic centre, you’ll come across Europe’s largest medieval quarter, with its narrow caruggi (alleyways) that lead to beautiful palaces and churches.
The Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO World Heritage site, shows off amazing Renaissance and Baroque mansions.
The Old Port area, given a makeover by architect Renzo Piano, has the well-known Aquarium, Maritime Museum, and loads of waterfront restaurants where you can tuck into proper Ligurian food.
Civitavecchia – Rome
Civitavecchia works as Rome’s main cruise port, sitting about 50 miles northwest of the famous Italian capital. Getting there’s straightforward – you can catch regular trains and buses to Rome’s centre, and the trip usually takes between 60-80 minutes.
Whilst most people dash straight to Rome to see the big sights like the Colosseum, Vatican and Trevi Fountain, Civitavecchia has its own charm. You can wander around the 16th-century Forte Michelangelo, take a walk along the old seafront promenade, or pop into the National Archaeological Museum.
If you’re pushed for time, booking a shore excursion with transport might be your best bet to make the most of your day in Rome. Just remember – the Vatican is quite strict about what you wear. No bare shoulders or knees allowed, so pack suitable clothes if you’re planning to visit.
Naples Cruise Ship Port Guide
Moving down Italy’s west coast, Naples welcomes cruise ships straight into the city centre. The cruise terminal sits in the Stazione Marittima, a lovely Art Deco building you can walk to from many local spots.
From this spot, it’s an easy stroll to the lively historic centre, which UNESCO has named a World Heritage site. The port puts you close to famous places like Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and the Amalfi Coast.
You’ll see ferries heading to Capri and Sorrento from the Molo Beverello pier next door. If you’re hanging about in Naples, make sure to try proper Neapolitan pizza and pop into the National Archaeological Museum.
The terminal has all the basics – cash machines, shops, and taxis waiting outside. Plus, you can walk to Via Toledo, the main shopping street, in about 15 minutes.
Sorrento Cruise Ship Port Guide
Ships drop anchor in the Bay of Naples rather than dock at Sorrento, as there’s no proper cruise terminal. You’ll take a tender boat to Marina Piccola (about 20 minutes), where you can either take the lift or walk up the steps to reach Piazza Tasso, the main square.
Remember to factor in the tender journey time when heading back to your ship.
Sorrento itself is brilliant for wandering around on foot – you’ll find lovely streets lined with shops selling local limoncello and leather bits and bobs.
It’s dead easy to catch buses to nearby spots like Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, or hop on a boat to Capri.
If you fancy staying in town, take a stroll down Corso Italia for shopping, or pop down to Marina Grande where you can tuck into fresh seafood whilst gazing out across the lovely bay.
Amalfi Cruise Ship Port Guide
Amalfi gets cruise ships dropping anchor in its beautiful bay, with smaller boats ferrying passengers to shore.
You’ll find yourself stepping off right in the centre of this brilliant old Maritime Republic. The tender dock is mere metres from Piazza Duomo and the striking Cathedral of St. Andrew, known for its mix of Arab-Norman style.
Walking around the medieval streets is dead easy – you can pop into shops selling limoncello and lovely ceramics.
The main beach isn’t far at all, and if you fancy a proper walk, the Path of the Gods trail begins in Agerola nearby.
Make sure you try the local food – the sfogliatelle pastries are brilliant, and the seafood in the waterfront restaurants is top-notch.
For day trips, you might fancy hopping on a boat to Positano, heading up to Villa Rufolo in Ravello, or taking a drive along the gorgeous Amalfi Coast road.
Portofino Cruise Ship Port Guide
Larger cruise ships drop anchor in Santa Margherita Ligure’s bay, whilst smaller tender boats ferry passengers to Portofino’s lovely harbour. This former fishing village has grown into a posh spot, where you’ll see bright buildings, fancy shops and waterfront cafĂ©s lining the shore.
Have a look at Castello Brown sitting pretty above the harbour – it gives you brilliant views along the Ligurian coastline. You can walk up to this 16th-century fortress in about 15 minutes from the port.
If you fancy a walk in nature, pop into Portofino Natural Regional Park, with its Mediterranean plants and sea views along the walking paths.
Since the tender port sits right in the middle of town, you can easily wander about on foot. Fancy shops dot Via Roma, and you’ll find fresh seafood at restaurants by the water.
Make sure to stop by the Piazzetta – it’s where everyone goes to see and be seen in Portofino.
La Spezia Cruise Ship Port Guide
La Spezia is your starting point for visiting Cinque Terre and the Italian Riviera. Your cruise ship will dock at Molo Garibaldi pier, and you’ll be just a quick walk from both the city centre and train station. Getting to the lovely Cinque Terre villages is dead simple – just hop on a train for a 10-minute journey.
From where you dock, you can’t miss the huge Naval Arsenal that’s been part of La Spezia’s seafaring story since 1869. Fancy a bite or bit of shopping? Pop over to Porto Mirabello marina.
If you’re hanging about in the city, the Technical Naval Museum is worth a look, and you’ll get brilliant views of the Gulf of Poets from the Castle of San Giorgio up on the hill.
It’s quite straightforward to get around – you’ll find plenty of local buses and taxis right at the cruise terminal. These come in handy if you want to pop over to Portovenere or fancy a trip to Pisa.
Livorno Cruise Ship Port Guide
The busy port of Livorno links you to famous Tuscany, putting you within 90 minutes of Florence and just 30 minutes from Pisa.
Your cruise ship will dock at Livorno Cruise Terminal in the Porto Nuovo area, roughly 1.2 miles from the city centre.
To get to Florence, take a shuttle to Livorno Centrale station and hop on a direct train. For Pisa, you can book a shore excursion or catch a taxi to Pisa Centrale station.
If you fancy staying in Livorno, wander through the lovely Venezia Nuova quarter with its canals and historic buildings.
The Mercato Centrale, a brilliant 19th-century covered market, is worth a visit – you’ll find loads of proper Tuscan food and fresh produce there.
Salerno Cruise Ship Port Guide
Sitting pretty on Italy’s gorgeous Amalfi Coast, Salerno’s cruise port is your jumping-off point to some of southern Italy’s best bits.
The modern terminal sees ships all year long, and it’s just a lovely 15-minute stroll from your boat to the city centre.
Once you’re off the ship, you can wander through Salerno’s medieval old town or head out to nearby spots.
- Join day trips to Pompeii’s ruins or walk up Mount Vesuvius – both about an hour away
- Wind your way along the Amalfi Coast road to see Positano and Ravello
- Pop into Salerno’s Duomo, an 11th-century cathedral where Saint Matthew is buried
- Browse Via dei Mercanti, the main shopping street packed with lovely shops and cafes
When it’s time to get back, you’ll find loads of taxis at the port ready to take you to your ship.
Savona Cruise Ship Port Guide
Savona’s cruise port sits prettily on Italy’s Ligurian coast and works as Costa Cruises’ main Mediterranean base. The terminal is just a 15-minute stroll from the old town centre, making it brilliant for wandering about on your own.
Inside the modern Palacrociere terminal, you’ll spot shops, cafĂ©s, and you can use the free Wi-Fi.
When you’re in Savona, pop by the 16th-century Priamar Fortress that looks down over the harbour, or have a look at the lovely Sistine Chapel – where Pope Sixtus IV went to church in his hometown.
The Torre Leon Pancaldo, a medieval tower at the port entrance, is worth seeing, and so is the ceramic museum in an old Renaissance palace.
Getting about is easy – you’ll find taxis right outside the terminal, and during busy months there’s a free shuttle bus that runs to and from the city centre.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Monte Carlo Cruise Ship Port.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Tangier Cruise Ship Port.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Travel Documents Do I Need for a Mediterranean Cruise in Italy?
Just like a careful traveller, you’ll want your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after your holiday ends. Remember to pack your cruise paperwork, boarding pass, and any visas you might need for the different ports where your ship will stop.
Are There Age Restrictions for Shore Excursions at Italian Cruise Ports?
Most shore trips at Italian ports are suitable for everyone, though certain activities do have age limits. For more active things like walks or bike rides, kids typically need to be between 6-12 years old to take part.
What Is the Best Time of Year for Mediterranean Cruises?
The sweet spot for Mediterranean cruises comes when all the flowers are out – try late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October). You’ll get lovely mild weather, smaller crowds, and smooth sailing across the Med.
How Much Should I Budget for Port Fees in Italian Destinations?
You’ll need around ÂŁ8-12 per person for port fees at each Italian harbour. Popular spots like Venice might set you back about ÂŁ25. Most cruise lines include these charges in your total ticket price.
Can I Use Euros in All Italian Cruise Ports and Terminals?
You can use euros everywhere in Italian ports and cruise terminals – it’s their official money. No need to faff about with currency exchange. Most shops and places take major credit cards too, which makes things quite handy.
