If you’re planning a trip, you’re probably wondering how to get around Rome without getting lost or stressed. Good news, you’ve got plenty of options.
The main Rome public transport system includes the metro, buses, and trams. These are the easiest and cheapest ways to move around the city. They connect you to famous spots like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trastevere.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get around in Rome, when to use each option, and how to save money with passes. Let’s keep things simple so you can explore the city with confidence!
1. Metro Lines (Subways)
Termini train station in Rome, Italy
If you want the fastest way to get around, start with the metro. It’s one of the easiest parts of Rome's public transport to use, even if it’s your first time in the city.
You’ll find three lines (A, B, and C) that connect major tourist spots. This makes the metro perfect when you want to move quickly between big attractions. For example, you can go straight from Termini Station to the Colosseum or Vatican without dealing with traffic.
Trains come every 5 to 7 minutes, so you won’t wait long. It’s best to use the metro during busy sightseeing days when roads are crowded.
What to know before taking the Metro in Rome:
🚊 Main routes:
- Line A: Vatican (Ottaviano), Spanish Steps (Spagna), Trevi Fountain (Barberini), Termini
- Line B: Colosseum (Colosseo), Circus Maximus, Termini
- Line C: Connects suburbs to Line A
⏰ Hours: 5:30 AM – 11:30 PM (until 1:30 AM on weekends)
💶 Fare:
- €1.50 (100-minute B.I.T. ticket)
- €7–€18 with Roma Pass
🎫 How to pay:
- Tap & Go
- B.I.T. tickets
- Roma Pass
2. Buses
Rome city bus
Buses are everywhere in Rome. If the metro doesn’t take you where you need to go, a bus probably will. This is why buses are a big part of public transport in Rome. Buses usually arrive every 10 to 15 minutes. Some popular routes, like Bus 40, come even faster. They’re also a great option at night when the metro is closed.
You’ll find over 350 bus routes across the city, making buses one of the most useful ways to get around. They’re especially helpful in the historic center, where metro lines don’t reach. For example, Bus 64 takes you from Termini to Trastevere.
Once you’re there, you can switch things up on a Rome Vespa tour. It’s a great way to ride through different neighborhoods and see more of the city.
What to know before taking the bus in Rome:
🚊 Main routes:
- Bus 40 (Express): Termini → Vatican
- Bus 64: Termini → Vatican
- Bus 81: Vatican → Colosseum
- Bus H: Termini → Trastevere
⏰ Hours: 5:30 AM – Midnight (night buses available)
💶 Fare:
- €1.50 (100-minute B.I.T. ticket)
- €7–€18 with Roma Pass
🎫 How to pay:
- Tap & Go
- B.I.T. tickets
- Roma Pass
3. Trams
Tram in Rome
Trams are a more relaxed way to travel in Rome. They’re not as popular as buses or the metro, but they’re still a useful part of Roma transportation.
You’ll want to use trams when you’re heading outside the busy historic center. They’re great for getting you to places like Trastevere or areas near parks like Villa Borghese. The ride is smooth, and it’s usually less crowded.
Trams come every 5 to 10 minutes, so they’re reliable too. If you want a calm ride after a long day of walking, this is a great choice.
What to know before taking the tram in Rome:
🚊 Main routes:
- Line 2: Piazza Mancini → Flaminio
- Line 3: Villa Borghese → Trastevere
- Line 8: City center → Trastevere
- Line 19: Vatican → eastern districts
⏰ Hours: 5:30 AM – Midnight
💶 Fare:
- €1.50 (100-minute B.I.T. ticket)
- €7–€18 with Roma Pass
🎫 How to pay:
- Tap & Go
- B.I.T. tickets
- Roma Pass
Roma Pass: Is it worth It?
Rome pass in Rome | Photo Credits: Hiro Kobashi on Flickr
If you plan to use Rome's public transport a lot, the Roma Pass can make your trip easier.
This 48- or 72-hour pass gives you unlimited rides on metros, buses, and trams. If you’re staying for 2 to 3 days, it’s usually worth it.
Instead of buying tickets again and again, you can just hop on and go. It’s one of the simplest ways to handle how to get around Rome.
📍 Where to buy:
- Tourist Information Points
- Metro stations
- Online on the official Roma Pass website before your trip
📝 How to use it:
Activate it on your first ride or attraction visit. Then write your name on the card. Once activated, the timer starts.
Other transport options in Rome
Rome Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus
Sightseeing bus in Rome, Italy
If you’re sightseeing a lot in a day, try the Rome hop-on hop-off bus. It’s not part of regular Rome public transport, but it’s a great option when you want a guided and stress-free experience.
These buses stop at major attractions around the city like St. Peter's Basilica, Trevi Fountain, Circus Maximus, and more. You can hop off to visit places, then hop back on when you're ready. It’s perfect if you don’t want to figure out routes or transfers.
Most hop-on hop-off buses run every 15 to 30 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long. It’s a convenient way to see a lot of Rome in one day.
Taxis and ride-sharing
Taxi parked in front of the Altare Della Patria in Rome
Taxis are the easiest way to travel, but they cost more than other options. Still, they’re very useful in certain situations.
You should take a taxi if you have luggage, are traveling late at night, or just want a direct ride. You can find taxis at official stands or book one through an app. While taxis aren’t part of public transport in Rome, they’re a helpful backup when you need convenience.
FAQs about Rome public transport
How to get around Rome by public transport?
You can easily get around using the metro, buses, and trams. These three make up the main Rome public transport system. The best way is to mix them depending on where you’re going. For example, take the metro for long distances and a bus for the city center.
How to pay for Rome public transport?
You can pay using contactless cards, single tickets, or travel passes. Tap & Go is the easiest option if you don’t want to buy tickets in advance. If you plan to travel a lot, use a Roma Pass. It saves time and makes things simpler.
What is Rome's public transportation called?
Rome’s system is run by ATAC. It includes buses, trams, and the metro. Locals usually just call it public transport. It’s the main system used across the city.
Is Rome an easy city to get around?
Yes, Rome is quite easy to navigate once you understand the basics. The metro is simple, and buses help fill in the gaps. You’ll also do a lot of walking, especially in the city center. Many attractions are close to each other.
What is the best way to get around Central Rome?
The best way is to walk and use buses. The metro doesn’t cover much of the historic center. Walking also lets you see more of the city. You’ll find small streets, cafes, and hidden spots along the way.
Is the metro free in Rome?
No, the metro is not free. A ticket usually costs around €1.50–€2 and lasts for 100 minutes. If you plan to ride often, get a Roma Pass to save money.
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