How to Get from Rome Airports to the City Center: Your Ultimate Guide
By Travel blogger, Flight and Travel expert Mr Plane Guy
Welcome to Rome! Whether you're arriving at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) or Ciampino Airport (CIA) Rome airports, you’re just a few steps away from experiencing ancient ruins, vibrant piazzas, and the best gelato of your life. But first, let’s get you into the city center without any confusion. I’ll walk you through the transportation options and give you the travel hack on Priority Pass lounges so you can travel in style before or after your flight out of Rome Airports.
Rome Airports Overview
Fiumicino Airport (FCO): Rome’s largest and main international airport, located about 35 km (22 miles) from the city centre. Most international flights land here, and it offers a wide variety of transport options.
Ciampino Airport (CIA): A smaller airport mainly used by budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air. It’s closer to the city, about 15 km (9 miles) away, making it a faster option for getting into Rome.
Getting from Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to the City Center
1. Leonardo Express Train: Fast and Reliable
The Leonardo Express is a non-stop train service that takes you directly from Fiumicino Airport to Roma Termini, the main train station in Rome.
Cost: €14 one-way
Travel Time: 32 minutes
Frequency: Every 15 minutes
The train runs from 6:08 AM to 11:23 PM, making it a great option for most arrival times. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or online, and the ride is smooth, with plenty of space for luggage.
2. Regional Train (FL1): A Cheaper Option
If you’re headed to a part of Rome other than Termini, the FL1 Regional Train might be a better option. It stops at several stations, including Trastevere, Ostiense, and Tiburtina.
Cost: €8 one-way
Travel Time: Varies depending on your stop (around 45 minutes to Trastevere)
Frequency: Every 15 minutes
While it's cheaper, keep in mind that it’s a commuter train, so it might be busier during peak hours.
3. Shuttle Bus: Budget-Friendly but Slower
Several shuttle bus services operate between Fiumicino and central Rome.
Cost: €6–€8 one-way
Travel Time: 45–70 minutes, depending on traffic
Stops: Most buses drop you off at Termini Station.
Popular services include Terravision, SIT Bus Shuttle, and T.A.M. Buses run frequently, but travel time can vary significantly during rush hour.
4. Taxi: Convenient and Direct
Official taxis from Fiumicino to the city center have a fixed fare to prevent surprises.
Cost: €50 flat rate (including luggage) to anywhere within Rome’s Aurelian Walls
Travel Time: 40–60 minutes, depending on traffic
TOP TIP Make sure to take an official white taxi from the designated
ranks.
5. Private Transfers: Stress-Free Luxury
If you prefer door-to-door service, booking a private transfer is an excellent option, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
Cost: Starts at around €60
Benefits: Personalized service, no waiting, and direct drop-off at your accommodation
Highlights
Enjoy skip-the-line admission to 1 or 2 attractions included with your Roma Card
Benefit from reduced ticket prices for other museums and/or archaeological sites
Ride for free on the city’s public transportation network
Receive discounts on participating exhibitions, events, and activities
Get a free map of Rome to help you make your way around the city
Getting from Ciampino Airport (CIA) to the City Center
1. Shuttle Bus: Quick and Affordable
Since Ciampino doesn’t have a train station, buses are the go-to option.
Cost: €6 one-way
Travel Time: 40 minutes
Stops:Termini Station
Terravision, SIT Bus Shuttle, and Schiaffini are popular options. Buses run frequently and are a good balance between cost and convenience.
2. Taxi: Fastest Option
Official taxis have a fixed fare from Ciampino to central Rome.
Cost: €30 flat rate to locations within the Aurelian Walls
Travel Time: 30 minutes
As with Fiumicino, only take official taxis from the designated taxi stands to avoid scams.
3. Private Transfers
If you want to skip the hassle of finding a bus or taxi, a private transfer is a stress-free way to get from Ciampino to your hotel.
Cost: Starting from €50
Benefits: Direct service, no waiting, and perfect for families or groups.
Priority Pass Lounges at Rome Airports
Flying can be exhausting, but if you have a Priority Pass, you can relax in style at one of these lounges before or after your flight.
Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
1. Plaza Premium Lounge (Terminal 3, Schengen Area)
Open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM
Offers comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and showers.
2. Prima Vista Lounge (Terminal 3, Non-Schengen Area)
Open 6:15 AM–11:45 PM
Enjoy a panoramic view of the tarmac, snacks, drinks, and workspaces.
3. Hello Sky Lounge (Landside, Terminal 1)
Open 24 hours
Located outside the security area, perfect for arrivals or departures with flexible hours.
Ciampino Airport (CIA)
Unfortunately, Ciampino Airport does not currently have Priority Pass lounges. However, the airport is small and efficient, making it easy to navigate even without lounge access.
What is Priority Pass?
👉 Exclusive Offer: Sign up for Priority Pass and save 30% today!
Priority Pass is your golden ticket to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, including the No1 Lounge at Heathrow Terminal 2. Membership plans start at just £69 per year, but with my exclusive 30% discount, you can get started for only £48! It’s a great way to ensure you have access to comfortable lounges no matter where your travels take you.
Priority Pass grants members access to a world of comfort and convenience. Enjoy complimentary food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and more at lounges across the globe. Whether you’re flying economy or business class, this membership ensures a premium airport experience.
Check out the following articles:
The Ultimate Guide to 24 hours in Rome: Everything You Need to Know
Venice Travel Guide, Everything you need to know about Venice and how to visit this amazing city on a budget!
Things to do in Rome
Where to stay in Rome
Cheap flights to Rome
Getting from Rome’s airports to the city centre is easier than you might think, with options for every budget and travel style. Whether you’re hopping on the Leonardo Express, catching a budget-friendly bus, or splurging on a private transfer, you’ll be soaking in Rome’s rich history and culture in no time. And if you have a Priority Pass, take advantage of the lounges at Fiumicino to start or end your journey on a relaxing note.
Buon viaggio!
Hello I’m Paul a Travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
I’m now, producing travel content, reaching millions of viewers monthly. Reporting on travel news, sharing travel tips, reviews, and deals with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of authenticity!
I hope you enjoyed this article How to Get from Rome Airports to the City Center: Your Ultimate Guide? Do let me know in the comments........
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