Italy Heritage Excursion from Civitavecchia to Ostia Antica, Ceri & Bracciano

highlights

• Experience Italy’s fascinating heritage on a private excursion from Civitavecchia
• Escape the crowded tourist hotspots and discover Italy’s rich history and cultural heritage
• Enjoy the beauty of Italy’s countryside with enchanting landscapes & extraordinary architectural treasures
• Explore Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman port city offering a glimpse into life during the Roman Empire
• Discover the charm of Ceri, a medieval hilltop village ideal for a stop for lunch
• Visit Bracciano Castle, a medieval fortress turned Renaissance castle with views of Lake Bracciano
• Travel through centuries of Italian heritage, from Ancient Rome to the Renaissance, in one unforgettable day
• Convenient pierside pick-up and drop-off next to your ship in Civitavecchia Port
• Relax in a private deluxe vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver at your service
• This tour does NOT include a tour guide. Guests will self-tour all locations independently
• Please read all tour details before booking. Availability will be confirmed upon request
• This tour is NOT OFFERED ON MONDAYS as Ostia Antica is closed on Mondays

itinerary

• Ostia Antica (up to 2 hours)
• Medieval village of Ceri for lunch
• Bracciano Castle ( up to 1.5 hours)

description

Discover the heart of Italy’s cultural and historical treasures with the Italy Heritage Tour from Civitavecchia to Ostia Antica, Ceri, and Bracciano Castle. This private shore excursion takes you on a captivating journey through time, from the grandeur of the Roman Empire to the charm of the Middle Ages and the artistic splendor of the Renaissance—all in just one extraordinary day.

This private excursion highlights some of Italy’s most fascinating destinations outside of Rome. Explore the ancient Roman city of Ostia Antica, stop for lunch in the charming medieval village of Ceri, and stand in awe of the majestic Bracciano Castle, with its panoramic views of Lake Bracciano. Each destination on this cruise tour reveals a distinct chapter of Italy’s remarkable history, blending archaeological wonders, timeless architecture, and stunning landscapes.

Your experience begins the moment you step off your ship, with convenient pick-up and drop-off next to your Cruise Ship inside Civitavecchia cruise port. Your professional Stefano Rome Tours English-speaking driver and a comfortable deluxe vehicle ensure a relaxing tour experience allowing you to focus on discovering the captivating history, stunning architecture, and serene countryside that define this unforgettable private excursion.

• This tour is NOT OFFERED ON MONDAYS as Ostia Antica is closed on Mondays

ITALY HERITAGE Excursion from Civitavecchia Prices:

For up to 4 Persons from Civitavecchia Port:  600 EUROS
For up to 6 Persons from Civitavecchia Port:  650 EUROS
For up to 8 Persons from Civitavecchia Port:  700 EUROS

* Dates on the Booking Form Calendar that are NOT Selectable, are NOT AVAILABLE.

* This tour is NOT OFFERED ON MONDAYS as Ostia Antica is closed on Mondays

NOTE: If using AOL, NETSCAPE, YAHOO, or HOTMAIL - check your Spam Folder regularly as these email providers have issues with email delivery and WHITE LIST our email address.

* Use the Price Check & Booking widget for a PRICE QUOTE.  Once you receive the PRICE QUOTE based on the information you input, you may proceed to SUBMIT your Tour Reservation Request. The Booking Form is NOT to be used for inquiries. For inquiries, please send us an email.

* Tour Requests are confirmed based on availability

Ostia Antica: Ancient Rome’s Gateway City

Your shore excursion from Civitavecchia begins with a journey back in time to Ostia Antica, once ancient Rome’s bustling port city of Ostia. Strategically positioned near the mouth of the Tiber River in ancient times, Ostia served as a vital hub of trade and communication, linking Rome to the broader Mediterranean world. Today, this remarkably preserved archaeological park offers an unmatched glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Romans.

As you stroll along its ancient stone streets, you’ll discover a city steeped in history. Marvel at the ruins of ancient Roman bathhouses adorned with intricate floor mosaics, explore areas where warehouses once stored goods from across the Roman Empire, and admire the remnants of Roman temples which once stood as symbols of Roman power and devotion. A prominent feature is the impressive Roman theater, a cultural centerpiece that once hosted vibrant performances and remains an enduring testament to the artistic life of the era.

Ostia Antica’s ruins are a testament to the ingenuity of Roman urban planning. From its advanced water systems and organized grid layouts to its public latrines, the site reveals the incredible sophistication of Rome’s infrastructure over 2,000 years ago.

Often called “Rome’s Pompeii”, Ostia Antica provides a quieter, more tranquil exploration of Roman history compared to its more crowded counterparts. Its peaceful atmosphere allows visitors to wander freely, imagining the lively Roman city that once thrived with merchants, trade, and citizens going about their daily lives.

Ceri: A Medieval Gem

From the grandeur of Rome’s ancient past, your journey continues to Ceri, a charming medieval village perched on a hilltop. Originally settled by the Etruscans, this small hamlet boasts a rich history that predates the Roman Empire.

As you walk through its cobblestone streets and past stone houses, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. The village is home to the Santuario della Madonna di Ceri, a church renowned for its striking medieval frescoes that vividly depict biblical scenes and saints. These masterpieces stand as a testament to the artistry and spiritual devotion of the Middle Ages.

Ceri’s peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch at one of its family-owned trattorias. Savor authentic Italian cuisine while surrounded by the timeless charm of this picturesque village.

Bracciano Castle: Majestic Fortress Overlooking Lake Bracciano

The final destination on your shore excursion is the awe-inspiring Bracciano Castle (Castello Odescalchi), one of Italy’s best-preserved castles and an iconic symbol of the country’s medieval and Renaissance heritage. Perched high above the pristine Lake Bracciano, a volcanic crater lake, this majestic fortress is more than just an architectural marvel—it’s a storybook setting where history, art, and nature converge.

This grand castle offers an extraordinary glimpse into the past, serving as a living monument to centuries of Italian history, power, and culture. Its commanding location not only provided strategic advantages centuries ago but also offers breathtaking views of the tranquil lake and surrounding countryside, making it an unforgettable highlight of your journey.

Constructed in the 15th century by the influential Orsini family, Bracciano Castle evolved from the earlier medieval fortress, the Rocca di Vico, into a fortified Renaissance residential castle. Its dual purpose as both a military stronghold and a luxurious home for the aristocracy is evident in its imposing defensive walls and the refined elegance of its interiors.  

The castle’s history is closely tied to some of Italy’s most powerful families. After serving as a residence for the Orsini family, it passed to the Odescalchi family in the late 17th century, where it has still remained for over four centuries. The Odescalchis have carefully preserved the castle’s historical legacy, ensuring it remains an enduring symbol of Italy’s noble traditions.

Inside, the castle’s lavish halls reveal a world of noble grandeur. Intricate frescoes depicting mythological scenes, richly crafted coffered ceilings, and an array of original furnishings immerse visitors in the artistry and sophistication of the Renaissance era. 

Outside, the castle’s battlements on top of the castle walls offer panoramic views of the tranquil Lake Bracciano and the rolling hills of the surrounding countryside. The beauty of the lake and the landscape offers a stunning contrast to the fortress’s storied past, blending natural splendor with historical intrigue.

As the final destination on your Italy Heritage Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia, Bracciano Castle provides a grand conclusion, leaving visitors with a profound appreciation for Italy’s enduring legacy.

After your visit to Bracciano Castle, you will meet your driver who will take you on a relaxing journey back to your cruise ship in Civitavecchia, aiming to arrive at the port by around 5 PM.  Cherished memories of captivating ancient Roman ruins, enchanting medieval villages, and a majestic lakeside castle will forever enrich your Italian experience.

Important Information

Please READ the important information below as well as Read & Accept our TERMS OF SERVICE  and Privacy Policy prior to placing your reservation request(s).

PAYMENT OPTIONS:

Payment for this Medieval Wonders Countryside Tour can be made in Euro funds at the end of your journey directly to your driver, or you may prepay in advance via PayPal or Credit Card online when you Confirm your Tour.

CANCELLATION POLICY:

We kindly ask that cancellations be made at least 7 days in advance so we can rebook your service and your reserved driver does not lose work for that day. We thank you for your cooperation and consideration. 

 ** PREPAID SERVICES can only be Refunded the Net Rate we receive from your prepayment.  Net Rate is the actual service price minus the fees retained by PayPal/Credit Card that are not reimbursed to us in case of refunds. We can only refund the portion we receive from the PayPal/CC company.

EMAIL INQUIRIES / BOOKING REQUESTS

Please allow up to 24 -48 hours for email correspondence in response to email inquiries and tour reservation requests.

We reply to ALL emails and booking requests we receive. If you don't receive correspondence from us within 24-48 hours please CHECK YOUR SPAM FOLDER, or send us an email from a different E-mail account. 

ADMISSION TICKETS :

* OSTIA ANTICA tickets are currently 18 Euros per person. Tickets can be purchased at the site before entering. Ticket prices go up when there are exhibitions inside the site.

* BRACCIANO CASTLE ADMISSION TICKETS are approximately 10 Euros per person to be purchased on-site upon arrival (ticket prices are subject to change without notice).

* Please NOTE that Bracciano Castle can CLOSE WITHOUT NOTICE for private events or other internal reasons. In the rare event Bracciano Castle is closed when you arrive, following your visit through the village of Bracciano your driver can take you to visit another lakeside village such as Trevignano or Anguillara.

Please inform us upon booking this tour if you wish to have a private guide so we can book a guide on your behalf. Otherwise, you will SELF TOUR the castle on your own.

MEETING POINT For Shore Excursions from Civitavecchia:

For Cruise Port Tours, our driver will meet you on the Pier next to your Cruise Ship at your Tour pick up time holding a sign with the NAME in your reservation.

Please do NOT leave the ship area, and do NOT take a shuttle bus outside the Cruise port.

Look for the driver in the same area as ALL the private drivers who will be waiting for their clients to be disembarked. 

YOUR TOUR DRIVER

* This Medieval Wonders Countryside Tour provides an English-speaking Driver who is NOT a licensed tour guide. Your driver will be happy to provide general touristic information while at the vehicle, but will not be able to accompany you to sightsee away from the vehicle.

Italy laws permit only licensed tour guides to accompany guests to sightsee on foot away from the vehicle. To be compliant with Italy laws, your driver cannot lawfully guide you into the sites, and will be obliged to remain with the vehicle while you SELF-TOUR away from the vehicle.
 

LUNCH IN CERI

Lunch is available only in the town of Ceri, all restaurants are priced at approximately 20 Euros per person depending on what you order from the menu.

There are no panini or pizza places available in the region of this tour, only local restaurants that are famous for their excellent cuisine. Restaurant choices in this region are limited, and we have no control over the menu options or service provided inside any establishment you lunch at. 

FAQ for Italy Heritage Excursion from Civitavecchia:

Q1: What makes this shore excursion special compared to other tours?

This shore excursion combines three extraordinary destinations—Ostia Antica, Ceri, and Bracciano Castle—into a seamless journey through Italy’s rich history. Unlike crowded tourist sites, this tour allows you to explore authentic historical and cultural landmarks, from ancient Roman ruins to a medieval village and a majestic Renaissance castle. With pierside pick-up and drop-off, private transportation, and a personalized experience, it’s the perfect way to maximize your time ashore.

Q2: How much time will we spend at each destination?

The tour is carefully timed to ensure you can fully enjoy each location. Typically:

• Ostia Antica: Up to 2 hours to explore its extensive ruins.
• Ceri: Approximately 1 hour to stroll the medieval streets, visit the church, and enjoy lunch if desired.
• Bracciano Castle: Up to approximately 1.5 hours to discover its historic interiors and take in the views of Lake Bracciano.

This schedule ensures a relaxed and enriching experience while returning to the port on time.

Q3: Is this tour accessible for cruise passengers with limited mobility?

The tour involves quite a bit of walking, particularly on uneven surfaces at Ostia Antica. Bracciano Castle also includes stairways and some steep areas. While it’s not overly strenuous, it may not be ideal for those with significant mobility challenges, and neither Ostia Antica nor Bracciano Castle are wheelchair accessible.

Q4: What’s included in this Italy Heritage Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia?

This private shore excursion includes:

• Pierside pick-up and drop-off at Civitavecchia port.
• Transportation in a private deluxe vehicle with a professional driver.
• Tour fee also includes Tax/VAT, highway tolls, and parking fee

Please note that meals, entrance fees, guided tours, and gratuities are not included.

Q5: What are some must-see highlights in Ostia Antica on a Civitavecchia shore excursion?

Ostia Antica provides an extraordinary glimpse into daily life in Ancient Rome, offering visitors the chance to explore a remarkably preserved city. These highlights collectively transport visitors back to the bustling streets of Ancient Rome, where politics, trade, entertainment, and daily life flourished: 

• The Decumanus Maximus: The city’s main road, lined with remnants of shops, houses, and public buildings. Walking along this ancient road, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the heart of Roman urban life.
• The Baths of Neptune: Known for their exquisite floor mosaics depicting Neptune and sea creatures, these bathhouses showcase the artistry and engineering brilliance of the Romans.
• The Theater: A well-preserved amphitheater that could seat thousands of spectators. It still stands as a testament to Roman entertainment and cultural gatherings.
• Piazzale delle Corporazioni: This former commercial hub features floor mosaics that symbolize various trade guilds and merchants, offering insight into the city’s vibrant economic life.
• The Forum and Capitolium: The political and religious heart of Ostia, with ruins of temples and administrative buildings that reflect its importance as a civic center.
• The Thermopolium: A fascinating example of an ancient Roman tavern, complete with a marble countertop and remnants of storage jars. This site offers a vivid look into the dining habits of the Romans and their social interactions over food and drink.
• The Insulae (Roman Apartment Buildings): Explore multi-story apartment complexes like the Case a Giardino (Garden Houses), which provide insight into the living conditions of ordinary Roman citizens. These buildings reveal the ingenuity of Roman housing, from shared courtyards to efficient layouts designed for urban living.
  
  

Q6: What is Bracciano Castle a must-see destination on shore excursions?

Bracciano Castle (Castello Orsini-Odescalchi) is a stunning example of medieval and Renaissance architecture. With its original furnishings, paintings, and frescoes, Bracciano Castle offers an authentic experience, transporting visitors into the pages of a real-life fairytale. Its walls echo with stories of powerful alliances, noble feasts, and the strategic importance of its location.

Unlike many castles that have succumbed to ruin or extensive modernization, Bracciano Castle has preserved its historical integrity. Visitors can explore its richly adorned halls, intricate ceilings, and monumental architecture much as they were centuries ago. Remarkably, the castle has been in the care of the same family, the Odescalchis, for over 400 years—a testament to its enduring legacy.

Key highlights inside Bracciano Castle include:

• Grand frescoed halls adorned with intricate artwork, showcasing the cultural sophistication of the Renaissance.
• The Hall of Hercules: This hall features vivid frescoes depicting the mythological Labors of Hercules, a testament to the artistry of the era.
• The Ancient Castle Kitchen:  Designed away from the main structure to reduce fire risk, this ancient kitchen offers a glimpse into the culinary customs and daily operations of a Renaissance household.
• The Hall of Caesars:  This is the largest and most prominent room, with expansive windows overlooking Lake Bracciano. Historically, this hall hosted opulent banquets, dances, and formal ceremonies.
• The Hall of Women: This hall celebrates the roles of noblewomen with frescoes and artifacts that highlight their influence on cultural and political life during the Renaissance.
• The Hall of Felice della Rovere: Honoring Felice della Rovere, an influential figure in the Orsini family, this hall features portraits, frescoes of notable women, and wedding chests that symbolize Renaissance marriage traditions and the family’s cultural heritage.
• The Hall of the Orsini Frieze: Once thought to belong to Isabella de Medici, this elegant room is adorned with intricate ceiling designs, family monograms, and a heraldic frieze celebrating the Orsini family’s legacy and influence.
• The Panoramic Tower (Belvedere): Ascend to the top for sweeping views of Lake Bracciano and the surrounding countryside. This tower offers one of the most picturesque and memorable vantage points of the entire castle experience.

Q7: What time will we return to the cruise ship?

The tour is designed to return you to your ship by approximately 5 PM. With pierside drop-off, you’ll arrive in plenty of time to re-board and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

Q8. What should I wear during the Italy Heritage Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia?

It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring uneven ancient streets at Ostia Antica, cobblestone paths in Ceri, and parts of Bracciano Castle that include stairs. Depending on the season and temperatures, consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, or a light jacket. Checking the weather forecast beforehand will help you pack any additional essentials like an umbrella.