One Day in Rome Before Our Sun Princess Cruise
One Day in Rome
If you only have one day in Rome before a cruise, don’t stress — you can still see iconic landmarks, eat incredible food, and soak up the magic of the Eternal City without feeling rushed. This was our exact experience before boarding the Sun Princess, and this simple itinerary hits all the highlights while staying totally doable.
Whether you’re flying in the day before your cruise or squeezing Rome into a tight schedule, this guide walks you through where to stay, what to see, where to eat, and how to get to Civitavecchia the next morning.
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Where to Stay in Rome Before a Cruise
We stayed at the Sina Bernini Bristol, a gorgeous hotel in a prime location with easy access to restaurants, metro stops, and major attractions. It’s a fantastic pre‑cruise option if you want comfort, convenience, and a little luxury before boarding.
Why it works well for cruisers:
Central location
Spacious rooms
Walkable to major sights
Easy transfer options to Civitavecchia
👉Check out my full review of Sina Berini Bristol (spoiler alert: it’s amazing) - Where to Stay in Rome: Sina Bernini Bristol Hotel Review
Lunch Near the Colosseum
We grabbed lunch at La Taverna dei Monti, a cozy spot serving classic Roman dishes. It’s close enough to the Colosseum to be convenient but far enough away to avoid the tourist‑trap energy.
Other great lunch options nearby:
Trattoria Luzzi
Ristorante Aroma (splurge with a view)
After we finished our meal, the server asked if we wanted a shot of Limoncello as we paid the check. I mean when in Rome. We obliged.
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My husband and me in Rome September 2025
Visiting the Colosseum & Roman Forum
No matter how many photos you’ve seen, stepping inside the Colosseum is breathtaking. If you only have one day in Rome, this is the one attraction you absolutely shouldn’t skip.
Tips for a smooth visit:
Book tickets in advance (seriously — they sell out)
Choose a skip‑the‑line or guided tour if you’re short on time
Pair your ticket with the Roman Forum for the full experience
Afternoon Walk: Trevi Fountain & Gelato
After the Colosseum, we wandered toward the Trevi Fountain, stopping for gelato along the way. Yes, it’s crowded — but it’s iconic for a reason. Toss a coin, take your photos, and enjoy the moment.
Best gelato near Trevi:
Gelateria Valentino
Il Gelato di San Crispino
Dinner With a View: Rooftop Dining in Rome
We ended our day with a rooftop dinner overlooking the city. Rome at sunset is unforgettable, and a rooftop restaurant is the perfect way to wrap up your whirlwind day.
Great rooftop options:
Terrazza Borromini
Acquaroof
Settimo Roman Cuisine & Terrace
How to Get From Rome to Civitavecchia Cruise Port
The next morning, we headed to Civitavecchia, the port for most Mediterranean cruises.
Our Choice: Private Transfer (Highly Recommended)
We booked a private transfer through Viator, and it was absolutely worth it for the convenience. Our driver arrived right at our hotel, helped with luggage, and dropped us directly at the cruise terminal — no navigating trains, no hauling bags, no stress.
It’s the smoothest option if you:
Have multiple bags
Are you traveling with kids or a group
Want a guaranteed pickup time
Don’t want to deal with train transfers
👉Book your transfer here - Viator (the company I personally used)
Rome FAQ
Is one day in Rome enough? Yes — if you focus on a few major highlights like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and a great meal.
Should I book Colosseum tickets in advance? Absolutely. They sell out quickly, especially during peak season.
Where should I stay in Rome before a cruise? Anywhere central and well‑connected. Sina Bernini Bristol is a great option.
How do I get from Rome to Civitavecchia? Private transfer is easiest; the train is the most budget‑friendly.
Rome in One Day: Final Thoughts
Even with just one day, Rome delivered everything we hoped for — incredible food, iconic sights, and a perfect start to our Sun Princess adventure. If you’re planning a pre‑cruise stay, this itinerary keeps things simple, enjoyable, and totally doable.
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About the Author
Julie is a travel‑hacking expert and the founder of NO POINT LEFT BEHIND, a resource for families who want to turn everyday spending into unforgettable trips. She shares practical guides, points strategies, and real‑life travel experiences to help you maximize every dollar. Stay connected — follow Julie on Facebook for fresh travel tips and join the Travel Hacking Moms Facebook Group to be part of a supportive community of travelers learning together.
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