Shore Excursion: Civitavecchia to Capalbio & Tarot Garden 2025

Leaving the Port Behind for something a little different

So, you’ve just pulled into the port of Civitavecchia, and, like, the big question on everyone’s mind is ‘what now?’. Honestly, most people make a mad dash for Rome, which is, of course, amazing. Yet that option often means a very long day with a lot of rushing around and so many crowds. This alternative, a day trip to the quiet town of Capalbio and the incredibly unique Tarot Garden, is actually a breath of fresh air. It’s almost like choosing a winding country road over a loud highway. You just might find that this is the day that really sticks with you from your whole trip. We often feel the pressure to see the big-ticket items, but sometimes the most memorable moments are, in a way, found in the unexpected places.

The Drive to Capalbio: Actually a Pleasant Part of the Day

Alright, getting off the ship and finding your transportation can sometimes feel like a bit of a scramble. First, you’ll meet your guide and hop into what is usually a comfortable, air-conditioned van or a small bus. The trip itself is pretty much a part of the show. Instead of an ordinary highway commute, you’ll actually see the Italian countryside unfold around you, which is seriously beautiful. You know, you leave the industrial feeling of the port and, almost instantly, you’re in the Maremma region of southern Tuscany. It’s all just rolling hills, fields of sunflowers if you’re there at the right time, and those classic olive groves. In some respects, the drive prepares you for the slower, more artistic pace of the day. It’s a nice change, you know, from the constant activity on the ship. The guide often shares little tidbits about the area, so it’s sort of a soft introduction to this very special part of Italy.

First Stop: Capalbio, the “Little Athens” of Maremma

Capalbio, as a matter of fact, appears almost like a mirage on its hilltop. It’s a beautifully preserved medieval village, completely surrounded by walls that you can actually walk on. Stepping through the ancient Sienese gate is, frankly, like walking back in time a few hundred years. The streets are basically narrow, winding, and made of stone, opening up to tiny squares with seriously charming little cafes. We recommend taking a moment here for a real Italian espresso, you know, just to soak it all in. From the top of the Aldobrandeschi fortress, the views are absolutely stunning. You can apparently see all the way to the sea on a clear day. This place tends to be called “Little Athens” because, for decades, it’s been a hideaway for artists, politicians, and writers, which sort of gives it a thoughtful, intellectual vibe. You pretty much get to wander freely for a bit, which is a really nice touch.

The Main Event: Stepping into the Whimsical Tarot Garden (Giardino dei Tarocchi)

Now, for the main attraction, and honestly, it’s unlike anything you have probably seen before. The Tarot Garden, or Giardino dei Tarocchi, is basically the wild, colorful dream of the French-American artist Niki de Saint Phalle. It’s almost like she took Gaudí’s Park Güell in Barcelona, blended it with a dose of pure fantasy, and then just let it bloom in the Tuscan hills. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by enormous, completely over-the-top sculptures that represent the 22 major arcana of the tarot deck. The Empress, for example, is a building shaped like a sphinx that you can actually walk inside; in fact, the artist lived in it for a while. Every surface is just covered in a vibrant explosion of mosaic tiles, glass, and mirrors that glitter in the sun. It’s an incredibly tactile place; you just want to run your hands over the cool, bumpy surfaces. In other words, this isn’t a quiet, contemplative art gallery. It’s a joyful, slightly chaotic, and utterly magical playground that will, like, definitely make you smile.

Practical Tips and what you really want to know for your day trip

Okay, so let’s get into some useful details for your visit. First, you should definitely wear comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be on your feet a fair amount in Capalbio, with its cobbled streets and steps, and the Tarot Garden has, like, uneven pathways. Also, bring a hat and some sunscreen, as the garden is pretty exposed and the Tuscan sun can be quite strong, especially in the middle of the day. You will probably find that there are plenty of spots to take incredible photos, so, obviously, make sure your phone or camera is fully charged. This trip is usually great for all ages; kids tend to absolutely love the playful, larger-than-life sculptures in the garden. As for accessibility, Capalbio’s old-world structure might be difficult for those with mobility issues, and some paths in the Tarot Garden could be a bit challenging, so you should check with the tour operator ahead of time if that is a concern for you.

Is This Shore Excursion the Right Choice for You?

At the end of the day, you have to decide if this tour fits your personal vacation style. To be honest, if you are a first-time visitor to Italy and you absolutely must see the Colosseum, then this might not be the trip for you. That is a completely fair choice to make. On the other hand, if you’ve been to Rome before or if you’re looking for something that is a little off the beaten path, this is a seriously fantastic option. It’s pretty much perfect for art lovers, creative spirits, and anyone who appreciates a bit of whimsy and wonder. It’s a much more relaxed day, with, you know, less time spent in traffic and more time spent actually connecting with a unique piece of modern art and a classic Italian hill town. Arguably, it’s about choosing a deeply personal and colorful memory over a crowded, check-the-box-off-a-list sort of day. The choice, of course, is all yours.

Quick Takeaways for your Shore Excursion

• A Relaxed Alternative: A really good option to avoid the intense crowds and fast pace of a day trip to Rome.
• Artistic and Unique: You get to see the one-of-a-kind Tarot Garden, a world-class art installation.
• Charming Scenery: The day includes a visit to the gorgeous medieval hill town of Capalbio, plus a scenic drive through Tuscany.
• Comfort is Key: You absolutely want to wear comfortable walking shoes for the uneven surfaces and a good bit of walking.
• Manage Expectations: This trip is more about art and atmosphere than it is about ancient historical landmarks.

Read our full review: Capalbio & Tarot Garden Shore Excursion Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Reserve your Spot on the Tour)