The historic centre of Rome is best explored on foot: most of the great sights lie within a walk of each other, and the lanes between them are part of the pleasure. For longer distances, the metro, taxis and a private driver fill the gaps. Here is how to get from the airports into the city, how to use public transport, and why you should not drive.
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The short answer
- Best way to get around: on foot in the centre
- From Fiumicino: the Leonardo Express train to Termini, or a taxi at a fixed fare
- For longer distances: the metro or a taxi
- Car: not recommended, the centre is a restricted traffic zone
- Day trips: by high speed train or with a private driver
How to Get to Rome
Fiumicino airport: Rome’s main airport, Leonardo da Vinci, lies about 30 kilometres west of the city. The Leonardo Express train runs non stop to Termini station in about half an hour. Taxis charge a fixed fare to destinations inside the Aurelian Walls, which covers most central hotels, and many luxury hotels arrange a private car.
Ciampino airport: the smaller airport southeast of the city, used mainly by low cost airlines. There is no direct train, so take a taxi at a fixed fare or a shuttle bus to Termini.
By train: high speed trains connect Roma Termini with Florence in about an hour and a half and with Naples in a little over an hour, as well as with Milan, Venice and Bologna. Some trains also stop at Roma Tiburtina.
Walking in Rome
Walking is the best way to discover Rome. From the Spanish Steps to the Pantheon, from Piazza Navona to the Campo de’ Fiori and on to Trastevere, distances are short, and every street holds a church, a fountain or a café. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestones are hard on the feet, and plan your days by area rather than crossing the city several times.
Metro, Buses and Trams
The metro has three lines. Line A is the most useful for visitors, with stations at Spagna for the Spanish Steps, Flaminio for Piazza del Popolo, Barberini near the Trevi Fountain and Ottaviano for the Vatican. Line B stops at the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus. The two lines meet at Termini. The metro does not reach the historic centre around the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, where you will walk.
Buses and trams cover the rest of the city, and tram 8 is a handy link from the centre to Trastevere. A standard ticket is valid for 100 minutes, and you can also tap in with a contactless card at the metro gates. Buses are often crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings.
Charlotte’s tip: book a car for the airport
After a long flight, a pre booked private transfer or the hotel car is the most relaxing way into Rome. The driver meets you in the arrivals hall and takes you straight to your hotel door, which is not always possible by taxi in the narrow lanes of the centre.
Taxis and Private Drivers
Official taxis in Rome are white and have a meter. You cannot usually hail them on the street: find a taxi rank, ask your hotel to call one or use an app. For day trips to Tivoli, the Castelli Romani or the coast, a private driver is the most comfortable option. See our guide to the best day trips from Rome.
Driving in Rome
We do not recommend driving in Rome. The historic centre is a restricted traffic zone, with cameras that fine unauthorised cars, traffic is heavy and parking is scarce. If you plan a road trip through Italy, pick up your rental car on the day you leave Rome, ideally at the airport, and return it on arrival.
Other Ways to Explore
Electric bikes, Vespa tours and golf cart tours are fun ways to see more of the city in a few hours, especially the hills and the Appian Way. See our guide to the Appian Way and the catacombs.
Where to Stay for Easy Sightseeing
Stay in the centre so you can walk to most sights. Our guide to where to stay in Rome compares all the areas.
Hotel Hassler Roma
At the top of the Spanish Steps, a short walk from the Spagna metro station and the shopping streets of the Tridente.
Best for: walking to the sights
Check rates at Hotel Hassler Roma
Six Senses Rome
In a historic palazzo just off Via del Corso, within walking distance of the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona.
Best for: the historic centre on foot
Check rates at Six Senses Rome
Hotel Eden
Near Via Veneto and the Villa Borghese, a short walk from the Spanish Steps and the Barberini metro station.
Best for: a calmer base with easy connections
Compare hotels in Rome
A central hotel saves time and taxi rides every day. Check current rates for your dates.
FAQ
What is the best way to get around Rome?
On foot in the historic centre, with the metro or a taxi for longer distances, such as to the Vatican or the Colosseum.
How do I get from Fiumicino airport to the centre of Rome?
Take the Leonardo Express train to Termini, about half an hour, or a taxi at a fixed fare to central hotels inside the Aurelian Walls.
Should I rent a car in Rome?
No. The historic centre is a restricted traffic zone and parking is difficult. Rent a car only when you leave the city.
Does the metro go to the Vatican and the Colosseum?
Yes. Line A stops at Ottaviano near the Vatican, and line B stops at the Colosseum.
