How do I pay for public transport in Rome?

The easiest way is using the Tap & Go system with your contactless credit card or smartphone directly at the turnstiles. You do not need to buy a paper ticket if you have a contactless card, as the system automatically calculates the best fare for you. If you prefer cash, you can buy paper tickets at tobacco shops, newsstands, or vending machines inside metro stations.

Is Uber available in Rome?

Standard UberX is not available in Rome due to local regulations, but you can use Uber Black and Uber Van services. These are luxury options with professional drivers, so they cost significantly more than a regular white taxi. For a standard taxi experience using an app, it is better to use FreeNow, which connects you directly to official local cabs.

Does the Rome Metro run 24 hours?

No, the Rome Metro does not run 24 hours a day and typically closes late at night. Once the metro stops running, you can rely on the extensive night bus network, which follows the main metro routes and is marked with an owl symbol. On Friday and Saturday nights, metro operating hours are usually extended to accommodate weekend crowds.

Do I need to tip taxi drivers in Rome?

Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory in Rome, but rounding up the final fare to the nearest Euro is a common and appreciated gesture. If the service was exceptional or the driver helped you with heavy luggage, leaving a small extra amount is kind but never expected. You should generally just pay the exact amount shown on the meter.

Is public transport in Rome safe for tourists?

Public transport is generally safe regarding violent crime, but pickpocketing is a very real issue on crowded routes like Bus 64 to the Vatican and Metro Line A. You should always keep your backpack on your front and your valuables in a secure, zipped pocket rather than an open bag. Staying alert in crowded spaces is the best way to avoid losing your wallet or phone.

How do I get from Fiumicino Airport to the city center at night?

If you arrive after the express trains and shuttle buses have stopped running, your best option is taking an official white taxi from the rank outside or booking a private transfer in advance. Taxis have a fixed rate for airport transfers to the city center, which makes them a reliable choice late at night. You should strictly avoid unauthorized drivers who might approach you inside the terminal offering rides.

Can I use the same ticket for the bus and metro?

Yes, Rome has an integrated transport system that allows you to use the same ticket for buses, trams, and the metro within the validity period. You can switch between buses as many times as you like, but you can usually only enter the metro system once per single ticket. If you have a multi-day pass, you have unlimited access to all these modes of transport without restrictions.

Is the Roma Pass worth it for transportation?

The Roma Pass is worth it if you plan to visit major museums and use public transport frequently, as it includes unlimited travel on all ATAC vehicles during its validity. It saves you the hassle of buying individual tickets or looking for vending machines every time you want to travel. However, if you plan to walk to most sights, simply using the Tap & Go payment method might be more economical.

Transportation in Rome: Public Transit, Tickets & Airports

Rome is a city best explored on foot but its sheer size means you will eventually need to use public transport. The local system is managed by ATAC and while it might seem chaotic at first glance it is actually quite logical once you know the basics.

Whether you are landing at Fiumicino or trying to get from the Colosseum to the Vatican this overview helps you move through the Eternal City like a local.

Public Transport Tickets & Passes

The public transport system in Rome is integrated. This means the same ticket works for the Metro (subway), buses, trams and a few urban train lines within the city limits. You do not need to buy separate tickets for each mode of transport unless you are traveling to the airports.

Vintage orange tram passing by the Colosseum in Rome representing public transport

Trams offer a scenic way to navigate the historic center with views of ancient monuments.

You have several options depending on how much you plan to travel. The standard single ticket is called BIT. It is valid for a limited time usually enough to get across the city. Once you validate this ticket you can change between buses and trams as much as you like within the time limit. However you can only enter the Metro turnstiles once.

Close up view of a standard ATAC public transport ticket used for metro and bus in Rome

The standard BIT ticket is your key to the city, valid for 100 minutes of travel.

For longer stays or intensive sightseeing days look for time-based passes. There are options for 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours. These allow unlimited travel on all city transport from the moment of first validation. If you are staying for a week the CIS (Weekly Pass) offers the best value.

Where to Buy Tickets

Tabacchi Shops: Look for the big T sign. These convenience stores are everywhere.
Metro Stations: Automated machines and ticket booths are available at every stop.
Newsstands: Many kiosks selling newspapers also stock tickets.

How to Pay: Tap & Go

Rome has modernized its payment systems significantly. You no longer strictly need a paper ticket. The Tap & Go system allows you to use your contactless credit card, debit card or smartphone (Apple Pay/Google Pay) directly at the turnstiles.

Look for the readers with the green symbol at Metro stations and on buses. Simply tap your card to enter. If you are inspected by a ticket controller you just show them the card you used. The system automatically calculates the best fare for you. If you tap enough times in a 24-hour period it caps the price at the daily pass rate so you never overpay.

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Validating Your Ticket

This is the most critical rule in Rome. Buying a ticket is not enough; you must validate it.

On Buses and Trams: Find the yellow or red machines inside the vehicle. Insert your paper ticket to get it stamped with the date and time.
On the Metro: The turnstiles validate your ticket automatically when you enter.

If you have a paper ticket and fail to stamp it you risk a heavy fine even if you bought the ticket honestly. Keep your ticket until you completely exit the station or get off the bus.

Yellow ticket validation machine inside a bus in Rome for stamping paper tickets

Always look for these yellow machines on board to validate your paper ticket immediately.

How to Get from the Airports to City Center

Rome has two main airports and the transfer options vary significantly for each.

From Fiumicino (FCO) to Termini

Fiumicino is the main international airport. To reach Termini Station (the central hub) you have two primary choices.

The Leonardo Express is a dedicated train that runs non-stop between the airport and Termini. It is the fastest and most reliable option as it is guaranteed to run even during public transport strikes. It is slightly more expensive but saves time.

Shuttle Buses are a budget-friendly alternative. Companies like Terravision or SitBus offer direct connections. The journey takes longer depending on traffic but it is significantly cheaper than the train. The bus stops are located just outside the arrivals terminal.

Leonardo Express train at Fiumicino Airport station connecting to Termini

The Leonardo Express provides a non-stop link between FCO Airport and the city center.

From Ciampino (CIA) to Rome

Ciampino is smaller and mostly serves low-cost airlines. There is no direct train station inside the airport.

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The most convenient method is taking a Shuttle Bus directly to Termini Station. Alternatively you can take a local bus to the nearest Metro station (Anagnina - Line A) and continue your journey underground but this requires a transfer with luggage.

Navigating the Rome Metro

The Rome Metro is simpler than systems in London or Paris. It primarily consists of three lines that form an X shape crossing at Termini Station.

Line A (Orange): This is the most useful line for tourists. It stops at key locations like the Vatican (Ottaviano), Spanish Steps (Spagna) and Trevi Fountain (Barberini).
Line B (Blue): This line takes you to Ancient Rome. Key stops include the Colosseum (Colosseo) and Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo).

Rome Metro entrance marked with a red square M sign on a busy street

Look for the red 'M' signs to locate metro stations near major attractions like the Colosseum.

Line C (Green): This is a newer automated line that serves the suburbs and connects with Line A at San Giovanni.

Metro Operating Hours

The Metro starts running early in the morning around 05:30. On weekdays it closes late at night. On Fridays and Saturdays the service extends even later into the night to accommodate weekend crowds. Always check the station signs for the exact last train times during your visit.

Buses & Trams in Rome

The Metro does not reach the historic center's winding medieval streets. For areas like Piazza Navona, Campo de' Fiori or the Trastevere neighborhood you will rely on buses.

Bus stops are marked with yellow signs listing the route numbers and stops. The electronic displays at popular stops show real-time arrival estimates.

Yellow ATAC bus stop sign in Rome displaying route numbers and stops

Bus stops are clearly marked with yellow signs listing all stops on the route.

Night Buses (N Lines)

When the Metro closes Rome does not sleep. The Night Buses take over. Stops for these buses are marked with an owl symbol and the bus numbers start with the letter N. They follow the main routes of the Metro and major bus lines ensuring you can get back to your hotel safely after a late dinner.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Apps

Using a taxi in Rome works differently than in many other major cities.

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Important Rule: You cannot simply hail a taxi on the street. Raising your hand at a passing cab will usually result in the driver ignoring you. You must go to a designated Taxi Rank (orange signs marked TAXI) or call one.

Ride-Sharing: Standard Uber (UberX) does not operate in Rome in the same way it does in the US. The app only connects you to Uber Black or Uber Van services which are luxury vehicles with professional drivers and higher rates.

For a standard taxi experience via an app use FreeNow. It connects you with official white taxis and allows you to pay through the app avoiding language barriers or payment disputes.

Official white taxis lined up at a designated taxi rank in Rome city center

Remember to head to an official taxi rank rather than trying to hail a cab on the street.

Essential Apps for Transport

To navigate the city smoothly download these apps before you arrive:

Google Maps: Reliable for walking directions and general bus routes.
Moovit: Often provides more detailed public transport combinations and real-time alerts.
Probus: excellent for checking real-time waiting times for specific bus stops.
FreeNow: The best way to order a standard taxi.

Rome Transport Safety Tips

Rome is generally safe but public transport is a hotspot for pickpockets especially on crowded routes.

Watch Route 64: This bus connects Termini to the Vatican and is infamous for pickpockets because it is always packed with tourists.
Keep Bags Close: Wear backpacks on your front when on the Metro or bus.
Strike Action (Sciopero): Transport strikes occur occasionally in Italy. They are usually announced in advance and often have guaranteed operation windows during rush hours. Check local news or ATAC's website if you see strike warnings.

Getting Around Rome: Public Transport, Metro & Airport Transfers