How to Get Around Rome: Complete Transportation Guide for Tourists

Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but also one of the most complex to navigate. With ancient streets, heavy traffic, understanding how to get around Rome can make a huge difference in your travel experience.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about public transportation, taxis, walking routes, and the best ways to move efficiently around the Eternal City.


🚇 Rome Metro: The Fastest Way to Travel

The metro system in Rome is relatively small compared to other European capitals, but it connects many of the main tourist attractions.

There are three main lines:

  • Line A (Orange Line)
    Stops include: Vatican, Spanish Steps, and major central areas

  • Line B (Blue Line)
    Stops include: Colosseum and Circus Maximus

  • Line C (Green Line)
    Less useful for tourists

💡 Important tip: The metro is the fastest way to reach major landmarks, especially during peak traffic hours.

🚌 Buses and Trams: Extensive but Slow

Rome’s bus network covers almost the entire city, making it very useful—especially where the metro doesn’t reach.

However:

  • Traffic can cause delays

  • Buses can be crowded

  • It may take longer than expected

Still, buses are often necessary for reaching less central areas.

🚶 Walking in Rome: The Best Way to Explore

Rome is an open-air museum. Many of the main attractions are surprisingly close to each other.

Walking allows you to:

  • Discover hidden streets

  • Enjoy local life

  • Stop anywhere for food or photos

💡 Most tourists underestimate how walkable Rome actually is.

🚕 Taxis and Ride Apps

Official taxis in Rome are white and regulated.

You can:

  • Find them at taxi stands

  • Call them

  • Use apps

Ride apps exist, but options like Uber are limited compared to other cities.

💡 Always use official taxis to avoid scams.

🚲 Bikes and Electric Scooters

Electric scooters and bike-sharing services are widely available.

Pros:

  • Fun and flexible

  • Good for short distances

Cons:

  • Traffic can be chaotic

  • Not ideal for long distances

🎫 Tickets and Travel Passes

Public transport tickets are affordable:

  • Single ticket (100 minutes): €1.50

  • 24-hour pass: €7

  • 48-hour pass: €12.50

  • 72-hour pass: €18

💡 If you plan to use transport frequently, passes are worth it.

🚗 Should You Rent a Car in Rome?

Short answer: No.

Driving in Rome can be stressful due to:

  • Heavy traffic

  • Limited traffic zones (ZTL)

  • Parking difficulties

Public transport and walking are much better options.

📍 Best Strategy to Move Around Rome

To save time and energy:

  • Use metro for long distances

  • Walk in the historic center

  • Use buses only when necessary

  • Stay in a central, well-connected area

🏡 Where to Stay to Move Around Easily

Choosing the right accommodation is the smartest way to simplify your trip.

Staying in a strategic neighborhood allows you to:

  • Walk to major attractions

  • Reduce time on public transport

  • Enjoy a more relaxed experience

Our holiday apartments As House Collection, located in the elegant Prati district, are perfectly positioned for exploring Rome. You can walk to the Vatican, easily access the metro, and quickly reach all the main attractions.

👉 If you want to explore Rome without stress, choose As House Collection and enjoy a comfortable, well-connected stay.