Local Transport
On Foot — The Best Option
The historic center of Rome is surprisingly compact: From the Colosseum to the Vatican is only 3.5 km as the crow flies, from the Pantheon to the Trevi Fountain 5 minutes on foot. Most attractions are within an area you can comfortably explore on foot. Comfortable shoes are a must — Rome's cobblestones (Sampietrini) are charming but tricky.
Metro
Rome's metro has only 3 lines (A, B, B1) and is surprisingly small for a city of 2.8 million — the reason: Every excavation for a new station encounters ancient ruins and delays construction for years. The metro is useful for:
- Line A: Vatican (Ottaviano), Spanish Steps (Spagna), Piazza Barberini (Barberini), Termini.
- Line B: Colosseum (Colosseo), Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo), Pyramid/Testaccio (Piramide), EUR.
Single ride: €1.50 (valid for 100 Min., including transfers to buses). Day pass: €7. 72-hour pass: €18. Tickets at machines in every station or in tobacco shops (Tabacchi).
Bus & Tram
The bus network is extensive but chaotic — buses rarely arrive on time, signage is confusing, and schedules are more like suggestions. Nevertheless, some lines are useful:
- Bus 40 / 64: Termini → Vatican (fastest bus connection, but pickpockets!)
- Bus 23: Trastevere → Vatican along the Tiber.
- Tram 3: Trastevere → Colosseo → San Lorenzo. Convenient and scenic.
Taxi
Rome's taxis (white limousines) are relatively affordable: Base fare €3.50 (€6.50 at night/Sundays), then about €1.10/km. A ride through the center rarely costs more than €8–15. Only use official white taxis — no private drivers who approach at the airport or station! Apps: FreeNow or inTaxi.
💡 Tipp
Do NOT buy tickets on the bus (not possible) — always in advance at the machine in the metro station or at the Tabacchi (tobacco shops, recognizable by the blue "T" sign). The BIT card (€1.50, 100 Min.) is valid for metro, bus, and tram. Don't forget to validate!
