For us, better than Train in to Rome from ship

So we were onto day 4 of our 8 day cruise. We have some huge days planned for the next two days so we wanted to go hard but not crazy in Rome. Some great advice we received was to see a couple things well and not try to cram too much in. Also Rome is a town you could spend weeks exploring.

Our initial plans were to take the train in and do the hop off hope on bus for about 45 euro total per person counting the 2 euro shuttle to train.

However, as we got off the free peir shuttle we saw some tour vendors of to the side. We decided to do one that was 25 euro per person that took us into Rome to 3 stops. First was the collesum for 1 hour, then over the Vatican for a bit, then over by Trevi Fountain for more. Then back to ship with an hour to spare.

This was a pretty stress free way to do Rome for part of a day from the ship. There were no train hassles, and no waiting for the hop off hop on bus. For us it went smooth and was a great choice. The driver dropped us off and told us what time to meet back at.

We might have cheated but we downloaded the free Roma app and listened to the same short narrations of the different sights that the hoho busses use.

4 of us shared a large pizza and a large container of water for about 13 euros for a light lunch. Got some treats and but too many clothes and then hit the van back.

The reason this worked for us is that it was cheaper than original plans. It also let us see Rome coming in and out from the street, not the train that might be underground or view blocked near city center. And getting around the city was stress free as they dropped and picked us up at 3 separate areas and gave us a map. The driver highlighted for me the top sites nearby and wrote the time to return as he sensed I was older than what I am.

We stopped into a church that was open. Many talk about orenate. Also was at Saint Peters Square while the Pope gave his New Years day speech!

The tour guide drove a 16 passenger orange van and again, this was a good and stress free option for us for about half the price we had planned on spending. And a lot less than the ships option of Rome on your own that didn't include the stops and pick up at different parts of the city.

Since there were several vendors outside the gate of the free peir shuttle, be sure to ask around for the price and tour that best fit you. Why hassle with a train and standing if it is full?

We’ve always used a prebooked private tour that included pickup/drop off at the ship in Rome. Like you, I prefer that to the train because no worries of getting lost, missing the train, train strikes, etc. Plus the guide provides information and always shows us a place we wouldn’t have found on our own. Thanks for sharing your experience.

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Sounds like a good option for some to consider; thanks for posting. I've always used the train but I know my way around Rome pretty well. ;)

Just found out our next port is delayed due to bad weather. So if you prebook make sure it is refundable. Also, by walking off the ship and buying your tour then you avoid issues of per booking if you can not make it....say you are ill. My point is there are other options besides the train. And we have fun.

It's good to post about these options because they are not common in European ports, so knowing where they are popping up is helpful.

It should be noted we are in the low season...that may be affecting the availability of these at the pier options.

Great information! Good to know of other options.

In non low season thereally should be many more vendors offering cheap tours and rides from the port. When you get off the free pier bus there is a big sign for local tours straight ahead. Look for it and save time and money and train hassles. Good luck.

In non low season thereally should be many more vendors offering cheap tours and rides from the port. When you get off the free pier bus there is a big sign for local tours straight ahead. Look for it and save time and money and train hassles. Good luck.

Should beversus what has been experienced by many of us who have traveled extensively in Europe is two different things.

Thanks for sharing your experience.

It is something to consider.

Happy New Year.

Keith

Sounds great - do you remember the name of the tour company ?

Smart. Our experience across several cruise lines, is that the cruise line European excursions, hotels, and transfers are grossly overpriced compared to arranging your own. Even more savings if there are four or more of you. Plus, you get personalized tours. Don't have to wait for the bus to fill, for some person lost in the tourist trap or the restroom.