Rome Getting Around

Getting from Rome Airport

Rome has two main airports: Leonardo da Vinci Airport (Fiumicino) 16 miles south west, and Ciampino 10 miles south east. Getting to the city from Fiumicino is easy, as you take the Termini Line train directly to Termini station, a journey of 30 minutes. Alternatively, take the more frequent train to Tiburtina and then metro. Night buses link Fiumicino to Tiburtina. Many charter flights arrive at Ciampino Airport. Metro Line A goes to Termini, the Spanish Steps and the Vatican.

Walking

Walking is easily the best way of getting around, and on foot you will happen across endless monuments, discover unusual cafes and bars, and find charming family restaurants. However, Rome is quite spread out and has no clear definable centre point. Taking in all the sights like the Vatican and the Coliseum in a short weekend will necessitate a little public transport (probably the metro), especially in the summer when walking in the heat can be tiring.

Public Transport

Rome does not have a particularly impressive public transport system. The metro is very limited, and buses and trams can be crowded and quite slow. The same tickets are valid on buses, trams and metro and can be bought from metro station vending machines, ticket offices and tobacconists. If you are using single tickets buy several in one go. There are 1 day, 3 day and weekly passes. The Roma Pass, valid for 3 days, includes free or reduced admission to museums and archaeological sites, exhibitions etc., and comes with maps and information. These are available from tourist offices, airports and participating museums.

Sightseeing Buses

The attractions are quite spread out so sightseeing buses are an attractive option, and an especially good way of getting around Rome in the heat of the summer.

Taxi

Yellow or white Rome taxis are quite expensive and difficult to hail in the street. Head for taxi stands in Termini, Piazza did Spagna, Piazza Sonnino, Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Venezia, Piazza della Repubblica and the Pantheon. Taxis are metered and subject to extra charges for night time, Sunday and bags. Radio taxis can be called in advance, and if out late, many bars will phone a taxi for you.

Metro

Rome metro has just 2 lines: A and B. Line A runs east to west and is useful for the Vatican, Piazza del Popolo, Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Barberini. Line B runs northeast to southwest and stops at the Coliseum, St. Paul's Basilica and Circo Massimo.

Buses and Trams

Buses go everywhere in theory. Bus stops show where the bus is coming from and where it is going, and tickets must be bought in advance and stamped on the bus. Get on at the front or back and exit at the middle. Rome trams tend to be crowded and visit few famous sights, but run close to the Vatican, the Coliseum and Trastevere.

River Boat

A cheap ferry links Tiberina Island to Duca d'Aosta Bridge on the River Tiber. Longer Rome river trips and dinner cruises are available.

Bicycles and Scooters

Can be rented, but hardly worth the trouble for a short break.