With multiple cruise lines offering a several different itineraries, it can be tricky to know which are best suited to your holiday tastes. Below, we have explored the highlights of the main Italian ports in alphabetical order to help make that choice a little easier. Scroll to the end to also read about the two ports in Sardinia, Italy’s largest island.
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Ancona
This lesser-known area of Italy lies on the country’s Western coastline, offering fantastic views of the Adriatic and quick access to the Marche region. The city itself is a working harbour with several historical sites to explore by foot, most notably the 2000-year-old Turkish Trajan Arch, which serves as a reminder of the historical significance of the area. Most cruise companies offer a wide variety of excursions from Ancona. In just over an hour’s drive, you can visit the UNESCO protected walled town of Urbino, the birthplace of Raphael - a must see for art lovers. Another journey inland takes you to the Frasassi Caves, one of the largest cave systems in Europe, where, as you wander through the maze of caverns, stalagmites and stalactites, a crystallised lake will appear.
Bari
Immerse yourself in traditional Italian culture exploring this South-Western city. Bari Vecchio, the old town, is still very much lived in by locals and it’s easy to loose hours immersing yourself in their world as you wander the cobbled, winding streets. The region is famous for its cucina povera which translates as ‘food of the poor’ – but don’t be fooled by the name, these dishes are delicious. Make sure you try the orecchiette pasta in a sauce of local, seasonal vegetables and the panzerotti where cheese and tomato make the filling of a deep-fried pasty. The city is also home to some of Italy’s most beautiful beaches, including the iconic Cala Porto with its smooth, white pebbles, perfect for relaxation and an unfiltered selfie, and San Giovanni, which has everything at hand for the perfect family beach day.
Brindisi
Travelling South down the coast from Bari, Brindisi has a very different feel. Due to WWII bombing, this is a modern city with palm tree lined promenades packed with bars and restaurants. Cruise companies offer a range of excursions from Brindisi; the most popular of these being the small city of Lecce, coined the ‘Florence of the South’. Filled with extraordinary architecture, this destination is the perfect day trip for those wishing to soak up Italy’s historic past. Wander its maze of streets and stumble across gems such as the Roman castle and Baroque basilica.
Catania
This Sicilian city lies in the shadow of Mount Etna. You could choose to dedicate the day in port to this infamous volcano by hiking, taking a train ride or using the cable car to reach the crater. Alternatively, day trips to the local vineyards in the area are regularly available, with delicious varieties due to the power of the volcanic soil. The city of Catania itself is filled with Greek, Roman and Baroque architecture for all ages to enjoy - even the kids will be amused as they hunt for elephants (the city’s symbol) hidden in plain sight as they explore the winding paths.
Genoa
As the capital of the Liguria region, Genoa is famous for its delicious local produce. You could easily spend your day feasting on the delights of olive-oil laden focaccia, creamy bowls of polenta and pesto that bursts with the scent of fresh basil and parmesan. Genoa has been a strategically important port since 6BC and so, unsurprisingly, it's filled with amazing architecture. Highlights include the gothic Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the majesty of the world’s fifth tallest lighthouse and the Renaissance buildings gathered around the magnificent fountain of the Piazza di Ferrari. The city is also perfect for some serious retail therapy, with a labyrinth of independent shops in the old town to peruse, as well as many of Italy’s well-loved modern brands to explore.
La Spezia
You'll be absolutely spoilt for choice in La Spezia. Not only is it a beautiful coastal town, but it also offers several world-class excursions direct from its port (with options similar to those from Livorno). You could take the opportunity to visit Florence and marvel at the world-famous architecture and artworks, including the dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore and Michaelangelo’s David. Pisa, Genoa and Lucca are also an easy bus or train ride and offer more spectacular sights. If you wish to remain by the coast. the Cinque Terre is the perfect option. Meaning ‘five lands’, these towns hang onto the vineyard-laden hills of Liguria and are only accessible by train or boat, offering stunning scenery and world-class beaches. La Spezia itself offers shopping, restaurants, numerous beautiful churches and much more, all with the backdrop of the glistening Mediterranean.
Livorno
On the Tuscan coast lies the popular cruise port of Livorno, which offers day excursions to some of Italy’s most iconic sights (La Spezia, a hundred miles to the North, offers a similar list). From the port, you can travel to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Florence’s Ponte Vecchio, the city walls of Lucca or the colourful houses clinging to the cliffs along the Cinque Terre. All these destinations can be accessed within two hours of Livorno through the rolling Tuscan hills and renowned vineyards, making the journey a memorable part of the adventure too. In Livorno itself, you'll stumble across a wonderful family-friendly aquarium, botanical gardens and a series of canals, known as ‘New Venice’ – perfect for a romantic boat ride.
Messina
At the northernmost tip of Sicily lies its third largest city. Messina is known for its glorious weather, incredible buildings and mythical history; it's the place where Odysseus defeated the six-headed beast Scylla and where Paul the Apostle arrived to convert to Christianity. It's also home to arguably the most beautiful cathedral on the whole island, a rare astronomical clock, and several noteworthy street art pieces, all of which ooze charm and surprises. Close by are some of Sicily’s most magnificent sites. Taormina, a cliffside town, has one of the best beaches in Italy, with access to a stunning rocky outcrop at low tide, while Castelmola offers magnificent views of Mount Etna as you relax in one of its many restaurants, with a plate of the local dish, Parmigiana di Melanzane - showcasing the best fresh produce from the island.
Naples
There are so many ways to enjoy your day in Naples and its surrounding areas. The city itself offers unique tourist sites to explore, such as the medieval Castel Nuovo and Borbon Tunnels, which lie beneath the city, hiding remnants of its past, from personal items of those seeking shelter during World War II to monuments for Mussolini. For many though, their main reason for visiting Naples is to eat pizza, where it was invented back in 1889. If you're happy to travel further out of the city, there are so many options. Just over 20 miles North, lies Caserta Royal Palace, one of Europe’s largest palaces, oozing wealth and grandeur. Pompeii is also a similar distance and allows visitors to see first hand what it would have been like to live in the area back in 79AD. You could also take a boat ride South to the Amalfi coast where Sorrento and Positano offer everything expected from an Italian beach escape – there are white sands, turquoise waters and beautiful streets to explore before tucking into fresh, local produce. Capri island is also easily accessible - take a trip up the funicular for amazing views, beautiful shops and botanical gardens.
Palermo
You will be transported into a melting pot of cultural influences when departing the ship in Sicily’s capital. Greeks, Romans, Byzantians, Arabs and Normans all left their mark on its architecture, food and people, before the Italians took hold in 1860 - Palermo is considered to be the most conquered city in the world. It also lays claim to having the most UNESCO World Heritage sites in one city, so there’s plenty to explore, with highlights including the intricate carvings of the Cattedrale di Palermo and the mummified corpses inside the Catacombe dei Cappuccini. Another great way to spend the day is to take your time wandering through the food markets which, due to Palermo’s proximity to Africa, feel reminiscent of a souk – an assault for all the senses. Another local gastronomic experience comes in the form of a granita al caffe – shaved ice flavoured with espresso – paired perfectly with a cannoli as you admire the city from the shade of a café. On a hot day though, there’s nothing better than to leap into the waters of Mondello Beach, where the long stretch of white sand glimmers in the shadow of Mount Gallo.
Portofino
Departing in Portofino, you'll be walking in the footsteps of movie stars, artists and authors, who have admired the stunning beauty of this harbour town for centuries. Originally named by the Romans as Portus Delphini, meaning Dolphin’s Harbour, this once small fishing village is now awash with extravagant villas and super yachts. It’s unsurprising that a day trip here can be pricey compared to other Italian excursions, but the view alone as you tender into the small bay is possibly one of the best in the whole country. The central Piazza Martiri dell'Olivetta, seen in films such as The Wolf of Wall Street, offers plenty of restaurants, bars and gelaterias to help you kick back, relax and sample the Italian ‘Dolce Vita’. A short walk inland leads to the twelfth-century Church of St Martin which is well worth an explore, as is the Castello Brown, the town’s castle, which sits high upon the hill with a breathtaking panoramic view of Portofino and the glistening Mediterranean beyond.
Rome (Civitavecchia)
From the port of Civitavecchia, it is just over an hour’s train ride into the heart of the Italian capital. Once in Rome, the opportunities are endless and so many cruises will schedule a few days here to allow you to truly immerse yourself in the history and culture (if not, it may be worth adding a few extra nights before or after your departure). Rome is filled with famous sights: stand back and imagine gladiators fighting in the Colosseum; be sure to get your selfie on the Spanish Steps; and admire Michelangelo’s frescoes inside the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. Rome is a city to savour by leisurely stumbling upon hidden gems that transport you into its fascinating past, and by following the lofty scents of local delicacies - think crisp pizzas, mounds of gelato and creamy spaghetti alla carbonara, all washed down with a glass of white wine from the nearby Lazio region.
Santa Margherita
Lesser known than its close neighbours Portofino and the Cinque Terre, Santa Margherita offers the same Italian ‘Dolce Vita’ but with fewer tourists. It's a place to watch the locals as they bring today’s catch into harbour and wander the streets soaking in the atmosphere of coastal Italy. Those who love to swim will be in pure paradise, with a popular beach and a number of nearby inlets to explore, such as the picturesque Golfo di Tigullio. Another option is to jump straight into the Mediterranean from a private boat tour and while the afternoon away sunbathing on the deck.
Sorrento
This picture-perfect Italian town can be reached by tender boat and from there, a taxi takes you straight to the centre (or if you’re brave, there’s a 200-step climb). Once there, despite Sorrento’s popularity with tourists, the centre still oozes splendour from the centuries-old buildings commissioned by noble families during Italy’s Renaissance. To explore the past of the town further, head to Museo Correale where the Coreale family’s treasures are on display. Piazza Tasso lies at the centre of the town and from here, there is a wide variety of cafes, shops and churches to explore. Head up the main shopping street, Corso Italia, to find a range of products made from the famous lemons grown in the area. Sorrento also offers spectacular views over the Bay of Naples (head to Villa Comunale Park for the best panorama) and wonderful beaches. Those in the know will choose to take the 40 minute stroll to the Baths of Regina Giovanna – a small cove, perfect for family swimming.
Syracuse
Imagine the perfect Italian escape and you’re likely to be picturing the Sicilian city of Syracuse, where the waters lap the harbour and white limestone beaches sparkle in the sun. Visitors have the choice to explore popular destinations in town or to escape the crowds in the relatively unknown areas of Calamosche or Fontane Bianche. The sights inland are just as spectacular, with several breathtaking attractions explore. Choose from the Greek Theatre, Necropolis burial caves or Maniace Castle to soak up the area’s varied past. Before you get back onboard, be sure to also include some retail therapy into your itinerary. Look out for the special paper products made from the locally grown papyrus reeds, bottles of the Nero d'Avola wine and freshly made cannoli.
Venice
Docking in the Marghera port, it’s just a short transfer into the heart of Venice. The 118 islands offer unrivalled beauty at every turn and with cars banned, it’s the perfect place to stroll across a maze of bridges and through some of Italy’s most picturesque streets. Learn about the fascinating history of Venice on a gondola ride or with a visit to one of the many galleries and museums, which tell the story of the city’s many famous inhabitants.
Sardinia
Cagliari
Near the Southern tip of the island, Cagliari boasts the charm of the major Italian cities with a welcoming, island feel. Take time to soak up this hospitality in the restaurants and bars overlooking the never-ending coastline, and devour the local seafood and pasta; then head down to the Poetto Beach for a dip in the Mediterranean's warm waters. To immerse yourself in the history of the island, visit the archaeological museum to see the Sardinan ‘stone army’ - imagine Italy’s version of the Terracotta Army - or explore the local flamingo colony nesting in the lagoon.
Olbia
Olbia is a beautiful town in Northern Sardinia and your gateway to the Costa Smeralda, a vast stretch of beaches and idyllic villages. The main attraction in this area, Porto Cervo, lying just to the north and epitomising the luxurious life of those that live in the Mediterranean. Spot million-pound yachts in the harbour and treat yourself as you wander the shop-lined avenues. The crystal-clear waters of the area are renowned for snorkelling. We recommend taking a boat trip to the islands of Molara and Tavolara within the country’s marine park where rolling hills and golden sands await.
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your perfect cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
