Transportation Info

Transportation Information – Rome, Italy

Rome, the capital of Italy, offers a diverse and efficient transportation system that connects visitors to its historic landmarks, neighborhoods, and surrounding areas. Whether you're traveling by public transit or private transport, here’s everything you need to know about getting around the Eternal City.

1. Public Transportation

Rome has an extensive public transport network managed by ATAC (Azienda per la mobilità di Roma), including buses, metro, trams, and regional trains.

  • Metro (Subway) – The fastest way to navigate Rome, with three main lines:

    • Line A (Red Line): Runs from Battistini to Anagnina, passing through key sites like the Vatican (Ottaviano) and Spanish Steps (Spagna).
    • Line B (Blue Line): Connects Laurentina to Rebibbia/Jonio, stopping at the Colosseum (Colosseo) and Termini Station.
    • Line C (Green Line): A newer line still under development, linking the eastern suburbs to the city.
  • Buses & Trams – Cover areas not served by the metro, including many historic sites. Tickets are valid for both buses and trams, but traffic congestion can cause delays.

  • Regional Trains (Trenitalia & FL Lines) – Useful for reaching Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo Express), Vatican City (San Pietro Station), and nearby towns.

2. Ticketing & Passes

Tickets are valid across metro, buses, and trams and must be validated before travel.

  • BIT (€1.50): Single ticket valid for 100 minutes.
  • ROMA 24/48/72-hour pass (€7, €12.50, €18): Unlimited travel for 1, 2, or 3 days.
  • CIS (Weekly Pass - €24): Valid for 7 days.
  • Roma Pass (48h or 72h): Includes public transport and entry to major attractions.

Tickets can be purchased at metro stations, tobacco shops (Tabacchi), newsstands, and ATAC vending machines.

3. Airports & Airport Transfers

Rome has two major airports:

  • Leonardo da Vinci Airport (Fiumicino - FCO) – Main international airport.
    • Leonardo Express Train (30 min, €14) – Direct to Termini Station.
    • Terravision & SIT Buses (45-60 min, ~€6) – Budget option.
    • Taxis (Flat rate €50 to city center).
  • Ciampino Airport (CIA) – Serves budget airlines.
    • Shuttle Buses to Termini (~€6).
    • Taxis (Flat rate €31 to city center).

4. Taxis & Ride-Sharing

  • Official taxis are white with a “TAXI” sign and charge set rates from airports.
  • Uber operates in Rome but mainly offers premium services like Uber Black and Uber Van.

5. Car Rentals & Driving

Driving in Rome is not recommended due to heavy traffic, limited parking, and ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in the city center. If renting a car, it's best for trips outside Rome.

6. Walking & Biking

  • Rome’s historic center is best explored on foot, as many streets are pedestrian-only.
  • Bike rentals and electric scooters (Lime, Dott, Bird) are available but require caution due to cobblestone streets and traffic.