Getting to & around Rome
Flights, trains, buses, airport transfers and local transport — every way to reach Rome and get around once you arrive, with live prices and journey times.
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Travelling within Italy, the fastest and cheapest way to Rome is usually the train (from about €18); arriving from abroad, you'll normally fly in and then continue by train, bus or a pre-booked transfer.
How to get to Rome
Rome is accessible by multiple transport modes depending on your starting point. If you are travelling from within Italy or nearby European countries, the train is often the most efficient and affordable option, with routes from cities like Milan, Florence, Naples, Venice, Bologna, and Sorrento. Train fares within Italy start at around €18, with journey times typically between 1 and 4 hours depending on the origin.
The bus or coach network also serves Rome from many Italian cities, with fares from roughly €21. Buses might take longer than trains but can be a good budget choice for travellers less concerned with speed.
For international or long-distance arrivals, especially from other continents, flying is the usual method. Rome has two main airports, Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA), with flights from major cities worldwide. After landing, you can continue your journey to the city by train, bus, or pre-booked car transfer. More details are available on our Flying to Rome page.
If you prefer driving or are planning a road trip through Italy or nearby countries, consider renting a car. Rome’s road connections make it accessible by car from multiple directions, and this mode suits travellers looking to visit rural areas or make multiple stops. Visit our Driving to Rome page for information.
Getting around Rome
Once in Rome, the city’s public transport system includes buses, trams, and a metro network that connect most areas efficiently. Tickets are affordable and can be purchased at stations or kiosks.
- Walking is often the best way to see Rome’s central historic districts, which are compact and pedestrian-friendly.
- A car is usually unnecessary for most visitors due to traffic congestion and limited parking in the city center.
- For airport transfers and trips outside the city center, taxis or pre-booked transfers provide convenient options; see Airport transfers.
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Trains to Rome
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Find train ticketsBuses to Rome
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Read the flight guideGetting around Rome
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Get around like a localDriving to Rome
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Read the driving guideAirport transfers
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Book a transferTrain vs bus vs car vs flight: getting to Rome
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Popular routes to Rome
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to get to Rome?
Within Italy, the cheapest way is usually the train from about €18. From abroad, budget flights combined with train or bus transfers into the city offer the best value.
What is the fastest way to get to Rome?
From nearby Italian cities or Europe, high-speed trains often provide the quickest journey (1–4 hours). For international arrivals from distant locations, flying is the fastest option.
Do I need a car to get around Rome?
Most visitors do not need a car. Rome’s public transport and walkable center make a car unnecessary except for trips outside the city or rural visits.
How do I get from Rome’s airports into the city?
From Fiumicino and Ciampino airports, you can take trains, buses, or pre-booked transfers. Options vary in price and journey time depending on your preferences.
Is Rome walkable and easy to get around on foot?
Yes, especially central areas are compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking a practical way to see many sights.
Is the train or bus better for reaching Rome?
Trains are generally faster and cheaper within Italy. Buses can be a budget alternative but usually take longer.
How far ahead should I book tickets to Rome?
Booking 1–3 weeks ahead is advisable for trains and buses within Italy to secure better fares. Flights should be booked earlier for international trips.
Can I get around Rome without a car?
Yes, Rome has an extensive public transport network along with walkable neighborhoods, so a car is not necessary for most visitors.
Our take
If you are arriving from within Italy or nearby European countries, taking the train to Rome usually provides the best balance of speed and cost, with fares starting around €18 and journey times typically under 4 hours. Buses are a reasonable alternative for budget travellers, though they tend to take longer.
For travellers coming from farther afield, flying into Rome’s airports is typically the most practical entry point. After arriving, continuing by train, bus, or pre-booked transfer features flexible options to reach the city center efficiently. Once in Rome, relying on public transport and walking will serve most visitors well, with a car generally unnecessary unless planning excursions outside the city.