12 must-see sights on your first cruise to Italy

A cruise to Italy is an excellent way to get a taste of the Big Boot-iful country in the Mediterranean. Jam-packed with gobsmacking gems, the country of pizza and pasta is an absolute must-visit when cruising the continent, and is a great option for a first-time cruiser.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has countless Italy cruise itineraries to choose from – but you don’t need to limit yourself to Italy with these fabulous sailings. Some of NCL Mediterranean cruises pack in France and Spain as well as Italy – all the Med highlights! – but we can’t deny our soft spot for Italy (lasagne and gelato, hello!).

Furthermore, NCL guests can upgrade from just £149 pp (on cruises of seven nights or more) to the Free at Sea package, which includes Premium Beverages, speciality dining, Wi-Fi and shore excursion discounts. On select sailings, guests three and four in a stateroom pay only the applicable taxes.

Italy cruise itineraries typically include ports like Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples and Livorno (for Florence and Pisa) — ideal for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Italy’s rich culture and iconic landmarks.

Rome

Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks. Your NCL cruise to Italy likely starts here, so why not tack on some extra days before your voyage to really make the most of it!

With its rich history spanning over 2,500 years, Rome has numerous must-see sites – but don’t forget to indulge in the city’s delectable cuisine (mmm pasta carbonara), wander through its charming streets, and immerse yourself in the captivating history and culture that Rome has to offer along the way!

What to do in Rome

Colosseum: An ancient amphitheatre that dates back to 70-80 AD. It is an iconic symbol of the Roman Empire’s grandeur and a remarkable feat of engineering. The Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts and other public spectacles, accommodating up to 50,000 spectators.

Pantheon: A magnificent ancient temple that was originally built as a Roman temple dedicated to all the gods. It was constructed in 126 AD and is renowned for its remarkable dome, which is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome complete with a breathtaking oculus at the centre that allows natural light to illuminate the interior.

Trevi Fountain: An enchanting Baroque masterpiece that has become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Completed in 1762, the fountain stands at the junction of three roads and depicts Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, surrounded by mythical sea creatures. Visitors toss coins into the fountain, symbolising their hopes of returning to Rome. Have a go yourself!

– READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Rome cruise port –

Naples

Naples, in the south, is another port of call on an NCL cruise to Italy. The bustling city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture and delicious food – it is the birthplace of pizza after all!

What to do in Naples

Museo Cappella Sansvero: A captivating museum that houses an extraordinary collection of art and sculptures. The highlight here is the Veiled Christ, a marble sculpture depicting Jesus covered in a transparent veil.

Galleria Borbonica: An intriguing underground network of tunnels and passageways situated beneath the city of Naples, that served as a military escape route during World War II. Today, it offers culture vultures on Italy cruises a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history, showcasing hidden chambers, ancient ruins, vintage vehicles and wartime artefacts.

Catacombe di San Gennaro: Another impressive subterranean marvel! This extensive catacomb complex was used as an early Christian burial site, housing the remains of thousands of individuals. Visitors on a cruise to Italy can explore the labyrinthine tunnels and see the ancient frescoes, intricate mosaics and tombs, gaining insight into the early Christian practices and traditions.

– READ MORE: Best MSC Cruises Excursions in Northern Italy –

Florence

A popular Italy cruise call on this Norwegian Cruise Line itinerary is Livorno, from where you can visit either Florence or Pisa on an NCL shore excursion or on your own.

The former, the capital city of Tuscany, is renowned for its art, architecture and cultural heritage. Tuck into Florence’s famous succulent Bistecca alla Fiorentina and sink a glass of Chianti while you’re here. Hey, you’ll need fuel for all that sightseeing on your cruise around Italy!

What to do in Florence

Piazzale Michelangelo: Take in panoramic views of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo, a hilltop square, on your Italy cruises. It offers a stunning vantage point of the city’s skyline and is particularly beautiful at sunset.

Uffizi Gallery: Explore one of the world’s most famous art museums, home to an extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: The architectural crown jewel of Florence, the Duomo (as it’s otherwise known) was begun in 1296 and took several centuries to complete. The magnificent dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is a marvel of Renaissance engineering and remains one of the largest brick domes in the world. The exterior of the Duomo is adorned with intricate marble facades, while the interior showcases frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows.

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