How to get around Rome by metro, tram, bus and more

Rome is a sprawling city of over 496 square miles, which means you’ll have to navigate Rome’s transport network to travel around. Thankfully, just like most major European cities, Rome has an extensive and reliable transportation system.

Most transportation services are operated by a single company, ATAC SpA, on behalf of the local government. This makes it easy to switch between modes of transportation—the same ticket types can be used across the metro, buses, trams, and urban trains.

A BIT (one-way ticket) costs $1.58; frequent travelers can save more by getting a 24-, 48-, or 72-hour travel pass, which range from $7.39 to $18.99. Tickets can be purchased at any metro station kiosk, newsstand, or tobacco shop. ATAC has also recently implemented the contactless “tap&go” program, which automatically charges you the cheapest rate based on all your journeys over 24 hours—no mental math required.

Best for: Sightseeing within the city

The metro consists of three lines that cross the city: A (orange), B (blue), and C (green). This is one of the most convenient travel options for tourists, as most of Rome’s attractions are located near metro stations, such as the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain.

During peak hours, trains arrive almost every two to three minutes but expect to wait up to 10 minutes at off-peak timings. The metro operates from 5.30 a.m. until 11.30 p.m., with extended hours until 1.30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Check out our guide for more tips on navigating the Rome Metro.

Best for: Experiencing Rome like a local

As metro routes mainly cover tourist attractions, going anywhere else via public transport will require a bus ride. For instance, if you plan on visiting the catacombs along the Appian Way, you’ll need to take a bus from Piazza Navona.

You can find bus routes and timetables at various bus stops. Most buses run from early morning until midnight, with night buses taking over the remaining hours—if you’re out late, look out for bus stops with a blue owl symbol. Plan your travel routes and stay updated on the go by downloading apps like Roma Bus.

However, keep in mind that Rome’s narrow streets tend to get congested, so public buses are often delayed and may slow to a crawl. To maximize your time in Rome, consider joining private bus tours for a more personalized journey. The Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Tour stops at key attractions, and its open-air upper deck offers a bird’s eye view of the city.

Best for: Eco-conscious travelers or families

Rome’s tram network has been around since the early 1900s, and is now fragmented and rather limited. It’s primarily used to get to residential neighborhoods like Flaminio. Parts of the tram lines are also falling into disrepair, forcing trams to slow down significantly at certain points for safety reasons.

Today, trams are gradually making a comeback as a more eco-friendly option. They also tend to be cleaner and less crowded. Get a taste of vintage Rome by hopping on the 19, which will take you to the Vatican; gaze out the windows to watch the Tiber River and Villa Borghese flicker by outside.

Best for: Venturing out of the city

Ferrovie Urbane, Rome’s urban railway network, is useful for travelers looking to get out of the city. There are three lines, with a fourth under construction. Urban trains run every 10 to 20 minutes from 5.30 a.m. to 10.30 p.m.

Enjoy a beach getaway in Rome by hopping on the Roma-Lido railway line towards the seaside town of Lido di Ostia, where you’ll also find the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica. This exclusive guided tour will let you skip any long lines.

Best for: Convenience

Price: Charged by distance, with base fares of $3.17 on weekdays, $4.75 on Sundays and holidays, and $6.86 at night

Whether you’re struggling with shopping bags or sore feet, sometimes a taxi ride is just what you need. The most reliable way of getting a taxi is by looking for a taxi stand, usually located near metro stations and tourist attractions. You can also call for a cab or use an app like Free Now, but the meter will start running once the driver accepts your request. While Uber is available in Rome, you’ll only be able to book an Uber Black, Lux, or Van due to lobbying by the city’s taxi drivers.

To avoid fare discrepancies, we recommend looking for licensed cabs—these are white, with a “TAXI” roof sign, meters, and the symbol of the City Council of Rome clearly visible on their front doors. Remember to ensure that the taximeter is switched on, and always ask for a receipt. Note that taxi rides to and from Rome’s airports are fixed at $50.65 for Fiumicino Airport and $31.65 for Ciampino Airport.

Best for: Road trips out of Rome

Price: Up to $273 per day

Thinking of taking a road trip to Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast? Those above 21 can rent your own car or opt for car-sharing services like Share Now. However, you won’t be able to drive within the Centro Storico—where most major tourist attractions are located—and popular areas like Trastevere and Monti.

There are also plenty of private taxis and shuttles available for booking, where you can relax in an air-conditioned vehicle while your personal driver takes you on a sightseeing tour around Rome’s churches, lesser known attractions, and wineries. If you’ve done your research, you can even fully customize your itinerary. We also recommend scheduling a private transfer from the airport so that your driver will be waiting for you the moment your flight lands.

Best for: Adventurous travelers on a budget

Price: From $17 per day

Cycling in Rome is a great way to get around the city, especially as the Centro Storico is mostly car-free. If you hope to avoid bad traffic and the crowded metro, cycling is your best bet. Rome has many bike lanes, and it’s also relatively easy to find bike rental shops, especially in areas like the Circus Maximus. Bike tours are also available, whether in the city or the countryside.

Or channel your inner Audrey Hepburn and hop on a Vespa—although you’ll need a driver’s license or permit as well as a helmet to rent your own scooter in Rome. Otherwise, join a scooter tour to zip around the city on the back of a Vespa or a vintage sidecar.

Price: $14.77

This direct non-stop train takes you from Fiumicino Airport to Termini Station in just 32 minutes. From there, you can connect to the metro. The Leonardo Express is ideal for families looking for a fast and convenient way to get into the city—children under four travel free; those under 12 travel free with every paying adult. It runs every 15 minutes, between 5 a.m. and 11 p.m. Pre-book a ticket online or buy one at the airport.

Price: From $5.28

Companies like Terravision operate shuttle buses between Fiumicino Airport or Ciampino Airport and Termini Station, each with different timings, frequencies, and fares. This is the cheapest way to get into the city, but it might take up to an hour depending on traffic.

Price: $37 per adult or $94 per group of three

Pre-book a private transfer for a hassle-free arrival. Your driver will be waiting for you once you exit the airport. Some companies charge per adult; others charge per group.

Price: $50.65 from Fiumicino Airport, $31.65 from Ciampino Airport

Taxis are required to charge a flat fare from the airport to a location within the boundaries of the Aurelian Walls in Rome. Avoid unlicensed drivers and only get a cab from an official taxi stand.

Not sure which is the best airport for your trip? Check out our Rome airport guide for more insights.

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