How to Get Around Rome: Your Complete Travel Guide

Rome, the Eternal City, is a city full of history, culture, and charm. Navigating it efficiently can make a huge difference to your experience, whether you’re on a short weekend trip or a longer stay. From ancient cobblestone streets to bustling piazzas, here’s your guide on how to get around Rome.

Walking: Explore the Heart of Rome

Walking is one of the best ways to see Rome. Many of the city’s top attractions, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trevi Fountain are within walking distance of each other in the historic centre.

Tips for walking in Rome:

• Wear comfortable shoes; cobblestones and uneven streets are common.

• Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated, especially in summer.

• Use a map or GPS app to navigate narrow streets and piazzas.

Walking not only saves money but also allows you to discover hidden alleys, local cafes, and charming piazzas that you might miss on public transport.

Metro: Fast and Efficient

Rome’s metro system is small but effective for reaching major attractions quickly. It has three lines:

• Line A (Orange): Connects the Vatican, Spanish Steps, and Termini Station.

• Line B (Blue): Serves the Colosseum, Circo Massimo, and Testaccio.

• Line C (Green): Limited coverage, mainly connecting the suburbs.

Tips for the metro:

• Purchase tickets at stations or newsstands before boarding.

• Validate your ticket before entering the platform.

• Avoid rush hours (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM) for a more comfortable ride.
  

Metro Map Download

Buses and Trams

Rome has an extensive bus and tram network covering areas not served by the metro. Buses are a great way to reach neighborhoods like Trastevere or Testaccio.

Tips for buses:

• Tickets are the same as for the metro (BIT tickets or multi-day passes).

• Validate your ticket once onboard.

• Keep an eye on pickpockets in crowded buses.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are available throughout Rome, especially near major landmarks. They are more expensive than public transport but convenient if you’re traveling late at night or with luggage.

Tips:

• Use official white taxis with a meter.

• Avoid unlicensed drivers.

• Ride-sharing apps like Free Now are popular in Rome.

  
  

Bikes & E-Scooters

Rome has embraced eco-friendly transport with bike rentals and electric scooters. These are perfect for short trips around piazzas or along the Tiber River.

Tips:

• Follow traffic rules and wear a helmet for safety.

• Stick to bike lanes and avoid busy streets when possible.
  

Here are some of the most popular bike and scooter rental apps in Rome, ideal for exploring the city efficiently and sustainably:

Lime

• Provides e-bikes and e-scooters.

• Pricing: €1 to unlock + €0.25 per minute.

• Features: Option for a weekly pass at €2.99, saving on unlocking fees.

• Download Lime App

Voi

• Specializes in e-scooters.

• Pricing: €1 to unlock + €0.28 per minute.

• Features: Subscription plans available for frequent users.

• Download Voi App

Ticket Options

Rome offers various ticket options to make getting around easier:

• BIT Ticket: €1.50 for a single journey (metro, bus, tram, 100 minutes).

• Roma 24h/48h/72h Pass: Unlimited travel for 1–3 days Roma Pass .

• Weekly Pass: Great for longer stays or frequent trips.

Tickets are available at metro stations, newsstands, and online for convenience.

Pro Tips for Getting Around Rome

• Download apps like Rome2Rio, Moovit, or Google Maps for live public transport info.

• Plan your day geographically to minimize backtracking.

• Early mornings are the best time to explore crowded landmarks on foot.

  
  

Navigating Rome doesn’t have to be complicated. With a mix of walking, metro, buses, and occasional taxis or e-scooters, you can see all the city’s iconic sights and hidden gems efficiently. Proper planning ensures you maximize your time in the Eternal City while soaking up its charm, history, and vibrant street life.