Flights to Rome

Public Transport and How to Get Around

After your flights to Rome land at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport and you’ve made your way to your hotel, the best way to get around Rome is on foot. Many of the city's top attractions are accessible, free and are in traffic-free zones. However, not all of the top sights are close, and you'll need to use the city's public transportation to cut down on travel time.

Metro

If you're planning to use the Metro a lot while exploring thanks to flights to Rome, you'll get the most value for your money by purchasing the Roma Pass. Alternatively, you can buy single tickets for 1.50 EUR ($2.39 AUD). The metro has three lines that run across the city and it stops by sights such as the Vatican, Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.

Bus

The bus is the cheapest way for travellers arriving on flights to Rome to get from Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to the city centre. It's also an affordable option to use to explore the city. There are regular night buses and express buses with a large number of routes all around Rome.

Tram

There are tram lines that run across Rome's city centre, making it a convenient way to move between neighbourhoods and see the top sights. You can also use your Roma Pass on the service, but keep in mind that the tram terminates at midnight every day.

Taxi

If you're tired of walking and don't want to waste time waiting for the next bus, tram or metro service, you can take a taxi to your hotel. Rides are expensive with trips starting at 3 EUR ($4.77 AUD). If you have a lot of luggage with you, a one-way trip from Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) will cost a flat rate of 48 EUR ($76.36 AUD).

Train

The Leonardo Express train is a 30-minute service that runs from Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Rome Termini in the city centre. Tickets cost 14 EUR ($22.27 AUD) per person. The Sabina-Fiumicino line (FR1) is a more affordable option that costs EUR 8 ($12.73 AUD).

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to buy return flights to Rome is for travel during the city's shoulder seasons. From September to April, the city empties out, and you'll have better luck finding cheap flights to Rome as well as discounted hotel rates. If you're planning a trip with flights to Rome in January, bring your warmest jacket as it's Rome's coldest month of the year. But if you don't mind a little snow and less than perfect weather conditions, you'll practically have Rome's top attractions all to yourself.

If you're after warmer weather and don't mind large crowds at the city's top attractions, book your flights to Rome between May and August. Hotel rates skyrocket, and you'll need to make your reservation at least six months in advance. Tours to sights like the Vatican and the Colosseum also fill up fast, and prices increase to meet the demand. It is possible to find cheap flights to Rome during this period if you book your trip well in advance.

Top Things to Do and See

The Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine

The Colosseum is one of Rome's most famous buildings and a major reason many travellers book flights to Rome for their holiday. Built in AD 72, it's the largest intact structure from the Roman antiquity period. If you're on a budget, skip the expensive tours and wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Colosseum.

Vatican City

The Vatican is the smallest country in the world. Inside its walls are St. Peter's Basilica, St. Peter's Square and the Pope’s apartments. Its religious significance is why many people buy tickets to Rome and make a pilgrimage to the tiny state. While you do need a pass to see inside, you're free to wander around the massive courtyard and its impressive fountain.

The Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the best examples of Roman architecture and shows off the skill of Roman builders. While its exterior is impressive enough, don't miss out on the opportunity to go inside. It has a nine-metre central opening in the roof that is the Pantheon's only source of light.

Roman Forum

Wandering around the Roman Forum is like stepping back into time. When you book your airfare to Rome, it gives you a glimpse into what life was like when Caesar ruled the city. You can see the ruins for free by going to viewpoints around the city, or you can pay for an in-depth tour that will give you access to the grounds. Some of the sights not to be missed are the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimus Severus, and the Arch of Titus.

Trevi Fountain

Few travellers book flights to Rome and skip seeing the Trevi Fountain. The 17th-century fountain is one of the city's top attractions, and thousands of people visit it each year to make a wish and throw a coin in the fountain. If you want to avoid the crowds, it's best to get here before the sun rises to get a good spot.