They say all roads lead to Rome… but once you’re actually in Rome, how do you get around without getting lost in a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and ancient ruins? Does Rome have Uber or do you just hop onto a chariot with a strapping gladiator at the helm? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the ins and outs of getting around Rome, from hoofing it on foot to hailing a cab like a local.

Is Rome a Walkable City?

The good news is, Rome’s historic center is surprisingly compact and pedestrian-friendly. Think of it like a giant, open-air museum – you can wander from the Trevi Fountain to the Pantheon to the Spanish Steps without breaking a sweat (well, maybe a little sweat, depending on the season). With a bit of planning, you can easily hit all the major sights on foot, taking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere along the way. Having just spent a week in Rome this August, I can vouch for how easy it can be to walk around in the centre or to walk in to the centre from some of the surrounding neighborhoods. It’s true, even in August, Rome can be walkable.

Photo from August 2024 during a walk from Monti area across the Tiber River.

If you’re not familiar with the layout of the city, we found that Google Maps walking directions were a good way to ensure you arrive at your destination without getting hopelessly lost. Of course, you don’t always have to have a specific destination in mind. It can be equally, or perhaps even more, rewarding just to lace up your comfiest shoes and let your curiosity guide you.

A few highlights you want to consider when walking in Rome. A stroll along the Tiber River at sunset will offer numerous photo opportunities. On the way you are likely to stumble upon hidden piazzas, or simply people-watche at a sidewalk cafe – these are the moments that make Rome truly unforgettable. And the best part? You don’t have to worry about navigating confusing public transportation or hailing expensive taxis.

Of course, Rome is a sprawling metropolis, and there are plenty of neighborhoods and attractions that are a bit further afield. But even then, a combination of walking and public transportation can get you just about anywhere you want to go.

Does Rome Have Uber?

Technically, yes, Uber does operate in Rome. But here’s the thing: it’s not the most efficient or cost-effective way to get around. Rome has a robust taxi system, and hailing a cab on the street is often faster and easier than waiting for an Uber. Just look for the white cars with the “TAXI” sign on top, and don’t be afraid to raise your hand and yell “Taxi!”

Just remember, most taxis in Rome only accept cash, so make sure you have some euros on hand. Also, be aware that there are different taxi tariffs depending on the time of day and day of the week, so the fare can vary.

If you prefer to use an app, consider downloading itTaxi, a popular ride-hailing app in Rome. It works similarly to Uber but connects you with licensed taxi drivers. One thing I discovered to my cost, is that it can be very difficult to get a cab during periods of high demand. For example, in the torrential rain shower that we encountered during a walk from the centre back towards our hotel.

Public Transportation: Metro and Buses

Rome’s metro system is relatively small, with only three lines (A, B, and C). It’s mainly used by locals commuting to and from the outskirts of the city. If you’re sticking to the historic center, you probably won’t need to use the metro much. Bear in mind that there can be closures to the system in Summer. We found the metro line that ran to our hotel in Monti to be closed during the week of our stay. That forced us to consider other transport options and probably contributed to us walking a lot more than we might have otherwise.

When it’s running, the metro can be handy for reaching attractions like the Colosseum (Line B, Colosseo station) or the Vatican Museums (Line A, Ottaviano station). These points are great for starting your adventures into the historic center.

The bus system (ATAC ROMA), on the other hand, is extensive and covers most of the city. With over 300 bus lines and 8,000 stops, you can reach virtually any corner of Rome by bus. But be warned: Roman buses are notoriously unreliable. They can be crowded, slow, and sometimes don’t even show up at all. If you’re on a tight schedule, it’s best to stick to walking or taxis. We did try to use buses but on occasions found ourselves waiting for up to an hour for a non-existent bus. Agai, that could have been due to a more limited service in August or that might be the norm.

Due to the narrow streets and heavy traffic, it’s often faster to walk than to take a bus or taxi in central Rome! See it as your opportunity to walk off all those gelatos that you MUST try.

Where to Buy Public Transit Tickets in Rome

You can purchase public transit tickets at metro stations, tobacco shops (look for the “Tabacchi” sign), and newsstands. You’ll receive a paper ticket (called a BIT ticket) that you need to validate before boarding a bus or entering the metro.

There are various ticket options available, including:

BIT: Valid for 100 minutes on all public transport (metro, bus, tram).
24-hour ticket: Unlimited travel for 24 hours from the time of validation
48-hour ticket: Unlimited travel for 48 hours
72-hour ticket: Unlimited travel for 72 hours
CIS: A weekly pass offering unlimited travel for 7 days

Like with most major European cities, there are tourist options that combine transport and attractions. So, if you plan on using public transportation frequently, consider purchasing a Roma Pass. It offers free entry to a certain number of museums and archaeological sites, as well as unlimited travel on public transport for a set period.

If you stay in Rome for longer than a week (lucky you), there is also an option for month-long tickets but it is important to note that these tickets run on a calendar month. So if you arrive in the latter half of the month it might not be worth it.

Be sure to hold on to your ticket! Inspectors don’t frequently check for valid tickets, but fines for riding without one can be hefty. And the paper tickets that are dispensed are super easy to lose, so have your wits about you!

Two Wheels In Rome: Bicycles, E-Scooters, and Electric Mopeds

If you’re looking for a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Rome, consider renting a bicycle, e-scooter, or electric moped. These options offer a sense of freedom and flexibility, allowing you to zip through the city’s charming streets and discover hidden corners that might be missed on foot or by public transportation. As a lifelong cyclist and general fan of anything 2 wheels, this was my favourite way to get around the city. Download one of the many apps and look for your nearest bicycle or scooter. Typically you won’t need to look far. Although it’s a cost effective option, keep in mind that the charges are mostly time-based so it’s not an ideal way to have a day of sightseeing. if you want to have a scooter or bicycle for longer we’d advise finding a rental shop that can do you a deal for a longer period. Several companies offer bike rentals, with prices ranging from around €10-20 per day. You’ll find plenty of scenic routes to explore, from the Appian Way to the Villa Borghese gardens. Rome has a growing network of bike lanes, making cycling a viable option for getting around, especially in the historic center.

A Dott bicycle for rent in Rome — DOTT is one of many bicycle and scooter rental apps that operate in Rome.

Be warned, Roman streets can be a battle ground. Watch out for erratic drivers and always be on guard. If you’re confident you should have no problems.

E-Scooters

A Lime scooter in Rome — Lime is one of the largest providers of electric scooters and bicycles.

E-scooters have become increasingly popular in Rome, providing a convenient and fun way to navigate the city’s traffic. You can easily find e-scooter rental companies through various apps, with prices typically starting at around €1 to unlock and then a per-minute charge. Just be sure to follow the traffic rules and wear a helmet for safety! Some popular e-scooter rental apps in Rome include Lime, Dot, and Bird. The price of these add up quickly and it is sometimes cheaper to take a taxi. So weigh up the price vs experience factor.

Electric Mopeds

For those seeking a bit more power and range, electric mopeds offer a thrilling way to explore Rome’s surroundings. Companies like Go Sharing provide on-demand rentals through their app, allowing you to easily locate and unlock mopeds scattered throughout the city. It’s a fantastic option for venturing beyond the city center and discovering hidden gems in the surrounding areas.

Visit.Network

I’ve been creating content and applications online since 1996. I’ve created several successful online businesses and enjoy creating content and tools that people enjoy using. I love to travel with my family and have visited more than 50 countries across all continents. We’re building the Visit.Network to bring interesting travel guides to travellers around the world.