If you’re planning to visit Rome this year, you might be anxious about navigating this exciting foreign city. Here are some tips on how to get around in Rome
You’ll always find Rome on any list of the most famous cities in the world. And it’s no wonder. With a rich history, architectural gems and delicious food, it’s easy to tosee the appeal.
But do you know how to get around in Rome when you are visiting? Read on to find out all your options.
Public Transit Tickets
The first thing you need to know about getting around in Rome is that the public transit is called mezzi pubblici.
You’ll need a ticket to ride the buses, trams, metro and some local trains. You can buy tickets at newsagents, metro stations and self-serve kiosks at major bus stops.
There are various ticket options for you.
You can buy a single ticket (BIT) that allows you to have 100 minutes of travel on any public transit. You can use the same ticket to transfer to a connecting bus or tram. This costs €1.50.
There are also day passes. Good for either 24, 48, or 72-hours. These passes are great for tourists that are spending a few days in Rome.
There is also the CIS pass which is valid for a full week as well as monthly and yearly passes.
Make sure to always validate your ticket when you board. Inspectors won’t let you off the hook because you are a tourist. Look for a yellow machine that stamps your ticket on board trams and buses.
If you take the metro, there are automatic barriers that stamp your ticket.
The Roma Pass is another great option for tourists. You get access to public transit plus entry into museums and discounts to several other services.
Now let’s explore each of your transit options in Rome.
Train
Getting around Rome by train is easy. Your public transit tickets are good for inner city train rides.
Trains are faster than many of the other transportation options in Rome. On the ATAC map, you’ll see stations in red. This is as far as you can go with a standard ticket.
If you want to go further, you’ll have to buy a train ticket. The Roma Lido train line is popular with tourists. It goes to both Ostia beach and Ostia Antica, the harbor city of ancient Rome.
There are no validation machines on trains. So stamp your ticket at the station first to avoid any fines.
Metro
Getting around in Rome by metro can be a hassle. That’s because there are only two metro lines.
Rome has so many ruins underground that the city has been unable to dig more subway lines.
Your options are Line A and B. The big tourist sights like the Colosseum and the Vatican are both near a Metro stop. But most other Rome attractions aren’t near a metro stop.
Be aware that the metro becomes jammed packed during rush hour. Commuters rely on the metro to get to and from work.
It’s important to note that some of these trains are old and don’t have AC. If you visit Rome during hot weather, it can be uncomfortable to ride the metro.
Bus And Tram
One of the best ways for getting around Rome is by bus and tram. If you plan to use this type of transit, make sure you pick up a Rome bus map.
Not all Rome maps outline bus stops. You can get a map that does at any newsstand or ticket office.
Buses and trams start as early as 5:30 in the morning and even have night buses.
You can find routes and schedules at the bus stops. But buses can be sporadic. The electronic signs at bus stops are more accurate than the printout ones.
It’s best to get a Rome transit app. Good ones are Citymapper, Moovit or Scooterino.
One thing to keep in mind is that public transport strikes are common in Rome. Make sure to have a backup plan for getting around Rome just in case.
Though the routes and times can be confusing at first, after a day or two, you’ll get it. Many tourists feel this is the best way to get around Rome,
Taxis
You can also use a taxi for getting around Rome. Only use taxis that are marked “Comune di Roma”.
When you first get in a cab, the tariff should be set to 1. Keep your eye on this number, it shouldn’t switch to 2 during your ride. If it does, call the driver out because he or she is overcharging you.
Unlike American taxis, the meter starts running the moment you call a taxi. Just keep that in mind.
Also, it can be hard to hail a taxi on the street. It’s easier to call and give them your address. But you can’t call a taxi in advance to schedule a later pickup. You can only call a cab the moment you need one.
The good news is that you can usually get a cab at your location within minutes of calling one.
Many taxi companies have a set airport rate that is good for up to four people without excessive baggage.
Note, that smoking is permitted in taxis. So be prepared for cigarette smell in the car and in your face if you take a taxi.
Uber
Yes, Uber is available in Rome. But expect to pay a little more. Only Uber Black is available here which means a nicer car and a slightly higher price.
Uber is only available in Rome and Milan, not any of the other areas in Italy.
Yes, Uber is totally safe in Italy. It is not illegal (though your taxi driver may try to convince you that it is).
Find out more about taking an Uber in Italy.
Bottom Line On How To Get around In Rome
We hope you found this guide on how to get around in Rome useful. The Eternal City is a must-see destination so don’t let your fear of transportation stop you from visiting.
Can’t get enough of traveling? Check out this list of top places to visit in 2019.
