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How to Get to Rome

How to Get to Rome

Rome Lazio, Italy Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Rome is served by two main airports, catering to a range of international and budget flights. Major airlines connect FCO to global hubs, while CIA focuses on low-cost European routes.

Airport Details

  • Fiumicino (FCO): Main international airport, 30 km SW of city. Served by ITA Airways, Delta, United, Emirates.
  • Ciampino (CIA): Primarily for low-cost carriers, 12 km SE of the city. Served by Ryanair, Wizz Air.
  • Direct flights to FCO from New York, London, Paris, Dubai, etc.

Airport Transfers to City

Various transfer options are available from both FCO and CIA to Rome's city center, suiting different budgets and preferences.

Transfer Choices

  • FCO: Leonardo Express (€14, 32 min to Termini) or FL1 Regional Train (€8).
  • FCO/CIA: Bus Shuttles (€6-€8 to Termini, subject to traffic).
  • FCO/CIA: Fixed-fare taxis (€50 from FCO, €31 from CIA to Aurelian Walls).

Flight Deals

Discover affordable flights with Dollar Flight Club.

Compare Flights

Find the best flight options and compare prices on Skyscanner.

Car Rental

Arrange your rental vehicle in advance via DiscoverCars.com.

Seasonal Flight Patterns

High Season Travel Spring, Summer, Holidays

  • Flight availability is highest.
  • Prices are most expensive.
  • Book flights well in advance at these times.
  • Expect busy airports and increased travel volume.

Low Season Travel Winter, excluding Holidays

  • Prices tend to be lower.
  • Direct routes might be fewer.
  • Often uncover better deals during these months.
  • Less crowded airports and attractions.

Airport Facilities

FCO Fiumicino

Extensive duty-free shops, diverse restaurants, car rental agencies, ATMs, currency exchange, Wi-Fi, lounges, and hotels connected to the airport.

CIA Ciampino

Duty-free shops, cafes, car rental agencies, ATMs, currency exchange, and Wi-Fi, though on a smaller scale than FCO.

General Amenities

Both airports provide modern facilities to cater to passenger needs upon arrival and departure.

Land Transportation

Train Connections & Stations

Rome serves as a major railway hub, connecting the city to the rest of Italy and beyond with high-speed and regional services.

Train System Overview

  • High-Speed Trains: Trenitalia (Frecciarossa) and Italo connect Rome to major cities (Milan, Florence, Naples).
  • Main Stations: Roma Termini (central hub for Metro A & B) and Roma Tiburtina (second largest hub).
  • Countryside Trains: Connect Rome to towns within the Lazio region, scenic travel options.

Long-Distance Buses & Borders

Several bus companies run long-distance connections toin Italy and to some European cities. As Italy is part of the Schengen Area, routine passport checks are not there at land borders with other Countries in the schengen area.

Bus Travel Insights

  • Main Companies: FlixBus, MarinoBus, and Itabus are well-liked selections.
  • Main Bus Station: Roma Tiburtina Bus Station, next to Tiburtina train station.
  • Border Crossing: No routine passport checks when crossing Schengen land borders.

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving in central Rome is highly discouraged for tourists due to traffic, narrow streets, limited parking, and ZTLs (Restricted Traffic Zones).

Driving Guidelines

  • Driving License: International Driving Permit (IDP) with national license for non-EU citizens.
  • ZTLs: Cameras enforce entry restrictions in central Rome during specific hours. Fines result.
  • Parking: Limited and expensive. Park outside ZTL and use public transport.

Road Conditions & Safety

Motorways are generally excellent, but city roads can be congested. Italian driving culture can be aggressive.

Safety Measures

  • The Condition of the roads: Major highways are good (toll roads). City roads can be uneven with cobblestones.
  • Driving Culture: Expect assertive driving. Be alert for pedestrians and scooters.
  • Theft: Never leave valuables visible in your car.

Sea & River Arrivals

  • Civitavecchia Port: Rome's main cruise and ferry port, 80 km NW of the city.
  • Major international cruise lines use Civitavecchia.
  • Ferries link Civitavecchia to Sardinia, Sicily, Spain, and other Mediterranean locations.
  • Immigration upon Seaports: Procedures occur at Civitavecchia for non-Schengen arrivals.
  • Connections: Regular regional train service connects Civitavecchia to Roma Termini (1h 15m).
  • River Transportation: Limited tourist boat services on the Tiber, mainly sightseeing cruises.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

Plan your departure to avert last-minute stress. Exit taxes are generally included in the airline ticket price, so you will not pay separate fees upon departure from Rome airports.

Departure Advice

  • International Flights (FCO): Arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • CIA or Schengen Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Allow additional time for transfers to the airport, especially during peak traffic.

Airport/Station Facilities

Both Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA) airports, as well as major train stations like Roma Termini, offer facilities for departing travelers.

Available Services

  • Airports (FCO & CIA): Check-in, baggage drop-off, security, duty-free shopping, restaurants, VAT refund offices.
  • FCO also has lounges.
  • Train Stations: Waiting areas, shops, eateries, and ticket offices.

Peak Season Booking

Book flights and accommodations well in advance for high season travel to secure better rates and availability.

Off-Peak Deals

Travel during low season for often lower prices and fewer crowds, making for a more relaxed experience.

Customer Service

Familiarize yourself with airline and transfer company customer service contacts.

Seamless Journeys

Pre-Flight Preparations

Completing necessary steps before arriving at the airport prevents delays and stress. Check-in online, prepare documents, and confirm flight status.

Checklist

  • Online check-in whenever possible.
  • Verify baggage allowances and restrictions.
  • Have boarding passes ready (digital and physical).

Post-Arrival Planning

Consider your immediate needs upon landing.

First Steps

  • Arrange airport transfers in advance.
  • Familiarize yourself with local transport maps.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM upon arrival.

Efficient Ground Travel

Train Advantages

High-speed trains connect major cities efficiently, reducing travel time significantly. A comfortable choice for inter-urban travel.

Bus Alternatives

Long-distance buses offer a budget-friendly way to travel within Italy and to neighboring countries.

Driving Considerations

Renting a car for rural exploration offers flexibility but needs careful planning for city driving and ZTLs.

Final Travel Reminder

Always double-check flight and train schedules closer to your travel date, as unforeseen circumstances can lead to changes.