The Rome Airport Guide: from Ciampino and Rome Leonardo Da Vinci Airport to City Center

My lovely anxious traveler, pack your leather sandals and your insatiable curiosity because you have just found the most complete Rome Airport Guide! If you are going to land in one of the Roman airports, this is the guide you were looking for.

It is full of all the tips and info you need to navigate the airports and reach your accommodation in Rome from the Airport in no time and with zero stress.

Now, I know what you might think – “How can you be a Roman Airport expert, Valentina?” Well, my dears, with four visits to Rome under my belt (two touching down at Fiumicino Rome Airport Da Vinci and two at Rome Ciampino Airport!), I consider myself somewhat of a Roman airport specialist. 

Yes, that’s right—Rome boasts not one but two airports! Ciampino Airport is close to the city center, while Rome Fiumicino International Airport is slightly beachier and a bit further from the heart of the action.

Your Roman holiday awaits, brimming with history, delectable cuisine, and captivating sights around every corner (and don’t worry, you can find my extensive collection of articles about Rome on my Rome Travel Guide Page to get all the info and tips to plan the most organized vacation, as usual).

But before you can embark on your whirlwind adventure and start booking things to do in Rome, there’s that little worry– how to get from the airport to your charming Roman accommodation.

There is nothing to worry about; I understand the fluttering heart of a first-time Rome traveler. The possibility of navigating a new airport, a foreign language, and a bustling city can be enough to turn that Colosseum-sized excitement into a tiny, anxious knot in your stomach (this travel anxiety is always around the corner).

Worry not. As usual, I’m here to help you; I meticulously crafted this guide on conquering Rome’s airports, Rome Fiumicino Airport and Ciampino Airport. Consider me your Roman chariot driver, whisking you away from the confusion and straight into the arms of the Eternal City.

This guide delves into every detail of how to get from any Rome Airport to the city center. From going through security checks to choosing the perfect transfer option for your budget and travel style.

I’ll tell you how long each journey takes, from the sleek comfort of a taxi to the budget-friendly bus (and all the links to book them in advance). Think of it as your one-stop shop for a stress-free arrival in Rome!

Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, but with my guidance, insider tips, and enough information to leave you feeling like a seasoned Roman voyager yourself,  getting to the city center will feel like a Roman chariot ride – swift, stylish, and guaranteed to leave you breathless with anticipation for the adventures that await.

So, get ready, my lovely anxious traveler, and let’s conquer those Roman airports together!

Put down that second (or third) cup of coffee, and let’s start planning your visit to the Italian Capital! With this guide on how to get to Rome from the Airport, your Roman adventure will begin when you step off the plane, and not a moment of precious vacation time will be wasted on navigating transfers. 

Pack a sense of adventure and an empty stomach (all that delicious food awaits!) because Rome, with its open arms and captivating spirit, is calling!

Rome Airport Guide: Get to Rome from the Airport in less than 1 hour.

I wanted to ensure you had all the information needed to get to Rome’s city center from either airport, so I packed my original article with tips and details.

But I heard many of you asking for more specific advice, so I’ve updated the guide to answer your questions. If, after reading it, you’re still wondering about something, don’t hesitate to ask me directly – I’m here to help!

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Which is the main airport in Rome?

Many of my readers asked me, “What is the main Rome airport?” as they could not decide which airline to book their flight to Rome.

If you’re in the same boat, the main airport in Rome is the Rome Fiumicino International Airport “Leonardo da Vinci” (Aeroporto Internazionale di Roma–Fiumicino “Leonardo da Vinci” in Italian). It’s one of Italy’s biggest international airports, located in Fiumicino.

Travel Tip: If you arrive in Rome too early for your check-in or your departure time is too many hours after your check-out, and you need a place to store your luggage, check out Radical Storage in Rome, a website that shows you all the safe places to keep your bags while still exploring Rome.

Is it better to fly to Ciampino or Fiumicino?

Fiumicino Rome Da Vinci Airport is Rome’s main airport, and let’s be honest, it’s got a bit more going on than Aeroport Rome Ciampino when it comes to getting into the city. You’ve got taxis, trains, and buses – a real pick of the bunch. Plus, Fiumicino’s got better facilities, tech, and overall vibe. It’s the big leagues.

Ciampino Airport? It’s closer to the city, but you’re limited to budget flights within Europe. Fiumicino is your only game in town if you fly from outside Europe.

How long does it take to get through passport control at Rome airport?

Many of you also asked me, “How much time do you need at the Rome airport?” Okay, so you land in Rome—either Rome Fiumicino or Ciampino. First, get on the right line for passport control—EU passports are in one line; everyone else is in another.

This can take anywhere from a quick five minutes to a full hour, depending on how many flights just landed. Then you’ve got immigration – or “passport check” as they call it – and grabbing your bags. Plan on about an hour for all that (better plan more time than less, always!).

I’ve never spent more than 15-20 minutes getting out of the airport, and I have been to both Rome Airports twice because I have been to Rome four times.

How far is the airport from the city center of Rome?

Ciampino Airport to Rome city center: The distance between Rome Ciampino Airport and the city center is approximately 18 km. Depending on traffic, reaching your hotel in Rome from the airport by taxi could take around 25 minutes.

Fiumicino Airport to Rome City Centre: The distance between Fiumicino Airport and the city center is approximately 34 kilometers from the city center. Depending on the traffic, you can reach your accommodation in Rome from the airport in 40 minutes.

Are you having a long layover in Rome? Leave your luggage at the luggage storage at Rome airport and visit the Italian capital in your spare time before your next flight.

How to get to Rome from the airport?

​It is always wise to check how to go from the airport to your accommodation. There are always many ways to choose from. From any airport in Rome Italy there are shuttle buses that go to the city center, there are train lines, or you can book a private taxi in advance that will take you to your accommodation. 

To visit Rome, you can check out flights that land at Fiumicino Airport Leonardo Da Vinci (FCO) and Ciampino Airport (CIA). Below is a complete list of all the ways to reach your accommodation from both airports.

What is the best way to travel from the airport in Rome Italy?

Look, I will be honest with you (as always): a taxi is the way to go from Rome airport to your accommodation. You just got off a plane, probably after hours of flying, right?

You don’t want to be messing around with buses or trains, trying to figure out which to take and where to get off and then look for the public transport to your accommodation. It can be very long and exhausting.

Rome’s public transport isn’t the best, especially if you’re headed to the Vatican, anywhere in the north area of Rome, or Rome’s city center. Trust me—I’ve been there—the traffic can be crazy at certain times of the day.

Depending on traffic, it can take an hour or more to get to your place by bus from the Rome bus/train station (additional time to add to the time you need to go from the airport to the Rome bus/train station). Lajos and I skip the hassle and get a taxi or book a private transfer (ALWAYS).

We’re on vacation or working hard to create excellent content for you, and we don’t have time for that public transport stress that gives me extra travel anxiety.

Are signs in Rome airport in English?

Don’t worry about finding your way around the airport in Rome Italy! Like most other big airports (and probably any Airport in the world), all the signs are in the local language (so in Italian in this case) and English. So, relax and enjoy your trip!

Which airport is closest to the city of Rome?

The closest airport to Rome is Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA). It is also the smaller of the two Rome airports. Located about 13km southeast of Rome’s’ city center, it mainly operates with low-cost airlines like Easy Jet, Wizz Air, and Ryanair.

Fiumicino Airport Leonardo da Vinci (FCO)

Fiumicino Airport Leonardo Da Vinci (FCO Rome Italy airport) is the biggest and only international airport in Rome and one of Europe’s busiest airports, with primarily intercontinental flights. Read below how to reach Rome city center from this airport.

How long does it take to get through security at Fiumicino Airport?

Customs lines at Rome, Italy, airport FCO can turn even the most seasoned traveler into a quivering mass of anxiety. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Customs? Really?” But trust me, even the most glamorous traveler can find themselves in a queue that would make a bank line seem like a Sunday stroll in the park.

The key here, my lovely anxious traveler, is preparation. And by preparation, I mean knowing which line to join. There’s one for EU passport holders – lucky me! – and then there are travelers coming from far, far away.

Be warned: depending on the time of day and how many flights have just landed at the Rome International Airport, you could be anywhere from five to thirty minutes in the queue.

So, grab a deep breath, channel your inner zen, and hope for a speedy passport check.

Heads up! Craving Rome’s soul, not just its sights? Skip tourist traps and savor hidden gems. Check out bite-sized food tours and cooking classes that unveil authentic flavors:

• 12 Best pizza-making classes in Rome with wine
• 12 Best pasta-making classes in Rome with tiramisu
• 11 Authentic Rome food tours with wine

Where is Fiumicino airport in Rome?

Fiumicino Airport (Rome Leonardo da Vinci Airport) is located in Fiumicino, Italy, southwest of Rome, near the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is about 30 km (19 mi) from the capital city of Rome.

How to get from Leonardo airport to Rome

From Fiumicino Airport to Rome By Train

The fastest way to reach the center of Rome from Fiumicino Rome Airport International is by using the Leonardo Express, the train that connects the airport to Roma Termini station. This train takes 32 minutes from Leonardo da Vinci Airport to Roma Termini station and does not make any stops. 

It leaves every 15 minutes except in some less busy times when the frequency is every 30 minutes. Check prices and schedule for the Leonardo Train. Otherwise, other regional trains connect the airport to Rome’s city center, which costs less but takes longer to reach Rome and make some stops. 

See prices and time schedules of the other cheaper trains. To reach the train station, follow the “Treno/Train” sign inside the airport; you cannot miss it.

From Fiumicino Airport to Rome By Bus 

Different companies run from the airport Rome Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino to the city center (and other locations). The journey to Rome takes around 1 hour. Follow the “Buses” sign to reach the bus’s departure area outside Terminal 3 arrivals.

Check bus prices and time schedules. 

From Fiumicino Airport to Rome By Taxi  

The best way to get to your accommodation from Rome Leonardo da Vinci Airport is to book a transfer from Rome airport to get straight to your hotel without getting to Rome center and taking other public transport.

It is more expensive, but if you share it with your travel mate, you will save a lot of time and start your holiday in the best and most relaxed way. 

​I think booking a private transfer from the airport to the hotel is the best solution most of the time. So, you can start your holiday right upon arrival and save time and energy.

​Kiwitaxi: is a site where one can book a transfer to get from or to the airport in 98 countries, between tourist destinations or other locations popular with tourists.

​Rome Travel Tip: Taxi ranks at Fiumicino airport are on the main road outside terminals 1 and 3. Taxis also leave from the road facing the train station. The Taxi area is well signposted in the arrivals area, so you cannot miss it. If your accommodation is inside the “Aurelian Wall”(a big part of Rome’s city center), your taxi ride from Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci airport to Rome will cost you a fixed rate of €48. Just let your driver know about it.

Heads up! Plan Your Vacation in Rome in the Best Way! Read all my articles in the “Most Complete Guide of Rome” and get all the info to make your travel successful. 

Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA): 

Rome Ciampino Airport is the second airport in Rome, and it primarily has low-cost, national, and international flights. It is closer to the city but not as well connected as the Fiumicino one.

But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here are all the ways to reach Rome from Rome Ciampino Airport.

How long does it take to get through security at Rome Ciampino airport?

I have just returned home from a wonderful vacation in Rome—yes, again. It was my fourth time in Rome, and I feel there will be a fifth one (Rome is too beautiful).

We landed at Ciampino Airport, and Passport Control was a breeze. Ciampino Airport is not as big as Rome Fiumicino Airport, so the customs check queue is never too long, and we pass through it in only five minutes.

How to get from Ciampino airport to Rome

From Ciampino Airport to Rome By Public City Bus

If you have time and are not in a rush (and most importantly, are on a budget), you can reach Rome by public city bus operated by the city’s ATAC company. Two lines connect Rome Ciampino Airport to the city center:

• Line 520 runs from 5:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and leaves every 20 minutes. It will take you to Subaugusta Station and Cinecitta Station (Metro Line A).
• Line 720 will take you to Laurentina Metro Station (Metro Line B)

The ticket price for both lines is 1.50 euros, lasting 100 mins.

Heads up! For a quick yet fulfilling Roman adventure, this 3 days in Rome Italy itinerary balances iconic sights with delicious local food. See the Colosseum, Vatican City, and more, while savoring authentic Roman flavors, all within a tight schedule.

From Ciampino Airport to Rome by Shuttle Bus

Shuttle buses are always a great way to reach the city center and save money. One shuttle bus runs every 30 minutes from the airport to Rome Termini Station. From there, you can catch the Metro or a Bus to your accommodation. Follow the “Buses” sign to reach the bus’s departure area.

See availability for a shuttle bus from Rome Ciampino Airport.

From Ciampino Airport to Rome by Train

There is no direct train that connects this airport to the city center. If you want to get to Rome by train, you must catch a bus first outside the airport arrivals terminal called Ciampino Airlink (it costs only 1 euro and the ride lasts 5 minutes. You can pay for the bus ticket when you get on board ) to get to the Ciampino train station. 

Regional trains to Rome depart from the train station.

Check the time and prices of the train to get to Rome.

Want to become a SUPER-ORGANIZED TRAVELER and fight TRAVEL ANXIETY? Check out my Travel Anxiety Tips Page, where you will find all the help, tips, tricks and guides to plan your next adventure in the most organized way!

From Ciampino Airport to Rome by Taxi 

This is the best way to avoid changing many types of transport before getting to your accommodation in a city where you have never been and probably do not speak the language to ask for directions (even though Google Maps and CityMapper Rome work beautifully in the Italian Capital).

I have often had to wake up in the middle of the night to catch an early flight (sometimes it is the only one available, or I chose it because there are fewer delays on early flights). As a result, I arrived at my destination feeling quite tired. However, sharing a taxi with my travel companions saved me from the stress of catching multiple types of transport to reach our accommodation.

You can get a taxi once you get out of the airport or you can pre-book a private transport. The cost of private transport depends on the number of travel companions I have and the price of the private transport. By splitting the cost between four people, the final price becomes affordable.

I think booking a private transfer from the airport to the hotel is the best solution most of the time. This way, you can start enjoying your holiday right from the moment you arrive and save time and energy.

​Kiwitaxi: is a site where one can book a transfer to get from or to the airport in 98 countries, between tourist destinations or other locations popular with tourists. It is my go-to website for airport transfers.

​Rome Travel Tip: Taxi ranks at Ciampino airport are outside the terminal. The Taxi area is well signposted in the arrivals area, so you cannot miss it. If your accommodation is inside the “Aurelian Wall”(a big part of Rome’s city center), your taxi ride from Ciampino Airport will cost you a fixed rate of €30. Just let your driver know about it.

Welcome to my travel guide, my lovely anxious traveler! Want to know who is behind Valentina’s Travel Guide? Let me tell you more about myself.

​Rent a Car

If you like driving like me, you can always rent a car, and in this case, I always look at my favorite rental car websites and see where I find the best deals. Have a look at them here:

EconomyBookings provides an extensive collection of rental cars, with over 20,000 rental shops in 150 countries. Many of these shops are conveniently located near airports, allowing travelers to rent a car immediately after arrival and avoid additional transportation costs.  

​Rentalcars: Rentalcars.com is an international car rental booking service available worldwide.  

Rome Tip: I don’t recommend you drive in Rome’s city center because the traffic is crazy, but if you plan to visit the area around the capital, renting a car can be a great option to move around freely.

Extra info and tips

Do you tip taxi drivers in Rome?

In Rome, showing your appreciation with a small gratuity is customary. For longer journeys, or if the taxi driver helps you with your luggage, a 10% tip is a lovely gesture.

But don’t stress over exact calculations, my lovely, anxious traveler. For shorter trips, round up the fare to the nearest convenient amount. It’s a hassle-free way to express gratitude and support our friendly taxi drivers.

Heads up! Fancy wine in Rome? If the answer is Yes! Check out the wine tasting available in Rome. 

Do you need cash for taxis in Rome?

Do taxis in Rome take cash or cards? The Roman Taxi Dilemma. In Rome, you can pay by card, but don’t be surprised if your taxi driver looks at you as if you asked for a free ride. Many prefer cash, a little secret to avoid those pesky tax bills.

We’ve had our fair share of taxi adventures, from a less-than-pleasant encounter with a distraught driver who insisted on cash to another who suggested a detour to the nearest ATM.

While paying by card is undoubtedly your right, it’s essential to remember that Rome taxi drivers face a mountain of taxes, leaving little to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

So, while I encourage you to be prepared, a little understanding goes a long way.

How early should I arrive at Rome airport?

The answer, my lovely anxious traveler, depends on your destination. If you’re jetting off from little Ciampino Airport and staying within Europe, two hours before departure should be plenty of time to relax and eat something (Ciampino Airport is pretty small, and there is not much to do while you wait for your flight).

Suppose your journey takes you to the far corners of the globe from bustling Fiumicino Airport. In that case, I strongly recommend arriving with ample time (just enough time to avoid the terrible travel anxiety of missing your flight).

You can always purchase some missing souvenirs at the duty-free shops, or (as I always do) immersing yourself in a captivating novel is far preferable to the heart-pounding stress of a missed flight.

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Before you go…

And there you have it, my lovely anxious traveler! With this comprehensive guide tucked under your stylish travel arm, you’re now fully equipped to conquer Roman airports and arrive at your Roman accommodation confidently and with a smile. Remember, the key to a stress-free Roman holiday lies in meticulous planning – just like a gladiator strategizing his next move!

But fret not if you crave a deeper dive into the art of super-organized travel. For those who wish to banish travel anxiety forever and become planning pros like me, I’ve crafted a delightful (and free!) downloadable guide with tips and tricks.

From mastering the art of the itinerary to packing like a pro, it will have you navigating any adventure with the grace of a toga-clad emperor. So, darlings, what are you waiting for? Download your free guide to become a super-organized traveler, easily conquer those Roman airports, and prepare to fall head-over-heels for La Dolce Vita!

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