GETTING AROUND ROME
There are many ways of getting around Rome. Which you choose depends on your preferences or other variables, such as the weather. Below is a list of the many ways you can see Rome.
1. Walking: The Best Way of Getting Around Rome
Walking is by far my preferred way of getting around Rome.
Many of the famous monuments and piazzas are within walking distance of each other, and the historic centre is relatively compact, making it easy to explore on foot.
Walking is also a great way to get a feel of the city, and to discover places that might not have been on your itinerary.
Insider tip: Rome’s cobbled streets can be tricky, so wear comfortable shoes.
2. Public Transport: Getting Around on Buses and Trams
If you’re looking for an alternative to walking, you can travel by bus or tram.
Rome has an extensive bus network that allows access to nearly all city areas, including those beyond the reach of the Metro.
While buses can be slower due to traffic, they offer scenic routes.
Trams are limited but strategically placed to connect with Metro or bus stops, facilitating access to destinations like the auditorium Parco della Musica or the MAXXI museum.
- Buses: Affordable and cover most of the city, but they can be crowded during peak hours.
- Trams: Fewer routes than buses, but a scenic way to travel, especially in areas like Trastevere and the Vatican.
Insider tip: Validate your ticket before boarding. Fines are issued for unvalidated tickets.
3. The Metro: a Fast and Efficient Way of Getting Around
The metro is the quickest way of getting around Rome, especially for longer distances.
- Line A (Red): Connects key locations like the Spanish Steps and the Vatican.
- Line B (Blue): Covers the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Termini Station.
- Line C (Green): Expanding network serving areas like San Giovanni.
Insider tips:
- Avoid rush hour crowds by travelling in the early morning, at midday or early evening.
- The Vatican stop (Ottaviano) tends to be super crowded, especially on Sundays and Feast Days, or any time the Pope makes an appearance. It’s easier to walk to another, less crowded stop or to take a bus or tram.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT TICKETS
Rome's public transit is managed by ATAC and includes buses, trams, and the Metro. Cotral provides additional bus and overground train services, such as routes to Ostia Antica and Ostia Lido (the beach). Tickets are available in various forms:
- BIT (Integrated Time Ticket): €1.50 for 100 minutes of travel.
- Roma24: €7 for unlimited travel within 24 hours of validation.
- Roma48: €12.50 for unlimited travel within 48 hours of validation.
- Roma72: €18 for unlimited travel within 72 hours of validation.
- CIS (Weekly Pass): €24 for unlimited travel over seven days from the first validation.
Tickets can be purchased at Metro stations, major bus stops, and select kiosks.
4. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
Taxis are a common way of getting around Rome.
Taxis and services like Uber (mainly Uber Black and Uber Lux) provide a comfortable option, though they are more expensive than public transport.
The best taxi apps are IT Taxi which can be used in other Italian cities, and FreeNow, which can be used in Italy and also other European countries.
The main taxi stands in Rome are found in the places below and are marked by an orange "TAXI" sign:
- Largo di Torre Argentina (between Pantheon and Trastevere)
- Piazza Fiume (Villa Borghese)
- Piazza Venezia
- Piazza Giuseppe Gioacchino Belli (Trastevere)
- Piazzale Ostiense, Piazza San Silvestro (Trevi Fountain)
- Piazza dei Cinquecento (Roma Termini Railway Station)
- Piazzale della Stazione Tiburtina
- Metro A Anagnina
- Piazzale della Stazione del Lido (Ostia)
- Piazza Risorgimento (Vatican)
Insider tips:
- Only take official metered taxis, and confirm the fare before starting your trip.
- Flat rates apply for airport transfers.
- There's a small surcharge (about €2) for pickups or drop-offs at Termini station.
- Most drivers are honest, but it's essential to be aware of potential overcharging.
- In case of problems/complaints, call the Traffic Police at [+39] 0667104282
- In case of lost items, and if you have the receipt, call [+39] 06 671070721-722 every day from 9. a.m. to 12. noon and on Tuesdays and Thursdays also from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m
For more tips on getting taxis in Italy and avoiding scams click here.
5. Bikes and E-Scooters
For an eco-friendly way of getting around Rome, consider renting a bike or e-scooter.
Services like Lime, Circ, and Bird offer flexible rental options.
Insider tip: Use designated bike lanes when available and check the condition of your rental before setting off.
6. Car Rentals
Driving in Rome is not recommended due to narrow streets, limited parking, and chaotic traffic. However, renting a car is useful for day trips to nearby places like Tivoli or Ostia Antica.
Insider tip: Beware of restricted traffic zones (ZTL), where only authorised vehicles can enter. You will be charged hefty fines if you drive in these zones.
For more tips on driving in Italy click here.
7. Segways and Electric Bicycles
Segways and electric bicycles are a fun way of getting around Rome. You can go on a guided Segway tour which is an entertaining way to explore while learning about the city's history.
Insider tip: Cobblestone streets can be tricky for Segways, so practice before heading into busier areas.
8. Vespas and Scooters
Vespas and scooters are very popular in Italy. Young people look forward to being old enough to get their own "motorino" (literally, a small motorcycle).
Renting a Vespa allows you to experience Rome like a local (remember Roman Holiday?). It's ideal for navigating narrow streets and avoiding traffic jams.
You can also opt to go on organised Vespa group tours, if you prefer:
Insider tip: Always wear a helmet (it’s mandatory) and stay alert. Roman traffic can be unpredictable.
9. Boat Rides on the Tiber
A tour on the Tiber River is yet another way of getting around Rome. Riverboats offer scenic views of landmarks such as Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Some of these river tours are also hop-on hop-off tours.
Insider tip: Riverboats are a quieter, less crowded option for sightseeing compared to buses and metros.
10. Hop-On/Hop-Off Buses
Hop-On/Hop-Off buses are a convenient way of getting around Rome and directly to the various attractions. They typically include audio guides in multiple languages and sometimes a live commentary.
Insider Tip: You can book these buses online or at the various ticket selling points near the main attractions or near Termini station.