Getting from the Rome airport to the center of town is pretty easy. Like many things in Europe, you’ve got a variety of options at a variety of price points!
This is one where more money does not necessarily equal a better deal. And it’s one where the “cheaper” options can quickly become much more expensive.
Leonardo Express Train
The Leonardo Express train connects Fiumicino Airport to Roma Termini station in the heart of Rome. It leaves the airport and Roma Termini station every 15 minutes. It takes approximately 30 minutes to make the trip.
Because of the lack of traffic, this is one of the more consistent ways to get to and from the airport. You can be fairly assured that you’re not going to get hung up in a traffic jam like you might with a bus or taxi.
One thing to consider is that if your hotel is not in walking distance of the airport, you’re going to need to pay for a cab from the train station to your hotel, or for metro tickets. The Rome metro can be incredibly crowded, so if you’ve got a lot of luggage, this is one reason to consider an alternative way to reach the city.
How Much Does the Leonardo Express Train Cost?
The Leonardo Express Train costs 14 euro per person each way.
Busses from FCO to Rome
There are multiple bus companies that operate airport shuttles from FCO to Roma Termini. Some of them have stops at Piazza Cavour (near the Vatican), so can be convenient if you’re staying on that side of the river.
It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to get from the airport to Rome, depending on traffic.
If you’re on a budget, busses are definitely the best option for you. You’ll save a bundle, and the fares include your luggage.
How Much Does A Bus from FCO to Rome Cost?
This depends on the bus company you go with. The cheapest, Terravision, charges 5 euro each way to go to Roma Termini. TAM bus is 6 euro each way. SIT bus charges 6 euro each way and is your best choice if you’re staying near the Vatican.
Private Taxi
After many taxi scams, taxis are now fairly well-regulated leaving the airport and heading to downtown. Make sure to take a marked taxi, and be on guard for suspicious “price increases.” Take a white cab (regulated cabs in Rome are white).
At the airport, get a taxi from the taxi stand, never from someone who just walks up to you. If you agree to someone who walks up to you, you will likely be scammed.
Each taxi can take up to four people, and the price includes luggage. Note that most taxis in Rome are fairly small sedans – think Toyota Prius or similar. If you’ve got four people who each checked two bags, you are not going to fit!
But, if you’ve got 2 – 3 people with relatively light luggage, this is actually a better option than the train (and can be cheaper). Especially if your hotel is near the Vatican or is not walking distance to Roma Termini, this is the easiest way to get there.
It takes about 45 minutes – 1 hour to get from the airport to most places within the Aurelian walls.
How Much Does It Cost to Take a Taxi from FCO to Rome?
Private taxis in Rome are price-regulated from the airport. This means it’s definitely going to cost 48 euro each way, provided your accommodations are within the Aurelian walls. (If you’re staying anywhere close to the Vatican or the main parts of Rome it will be. If you’re looking for the cruise port, it won’t be.)
Private Car
Private cars need to be booked in advance, and most services will watch your flight and adjust accordingly if the flight is late.
If you’ve got a group of three or more, especially if you have heavy-packing friends, this is going to be your best option.
Given that the price is generally the same as a cab, this can be a better option if you’re planning on taking a cab anyway. You can prepay and not have to worry. You also won’t have to wait in the taxi queue! Make sure you know where the company will pick you up and how they plan to find you. (Or, put an international plan on your phone to be able to call if needed.)
How Much Does It Cost to Take a Private Car from FCO to Rome?
Private car costs vary depending on the type of car, the season, and the time of day. When booked in advance for 1 – 3 people, they start at the same price as a cab – roughly 48 euros.
What’s the Best Way to Get to Rome From the Airport?
This depends on the number of people traveling with you and how much luggage you’ve got. If you’re on a budget, the bus is definitely the best choice.
If time is of the essence, a private car is a better choice. Any choice is a good choice so you can start enjoying your Roman vacation!
Not sure where to stay? Check out this handy guide to Rome’s neighborhoods.
