How to get to Rome from Fiumicino and Ciampino airports
Landing in Rome is just the beginning of the adventure. The question every traveler asks as soon as they exit the gate is: how do I get to the city center? The two airports of the Capital, Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA), are well connected but with very different solutions. This guide explains how to get to Rome from Fiumicino and Ciampino airports by comparing each option: trains, shuttle buses, taxis, rental cars, and private transfers. For each mode of transport, you will find costs, times, schedules, and the level of comfort.
Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino (FCO)
Fiumicino is Rome's main airport, located about 32 km southwest of the city center. It handles most international and domestic flights. The options for reaching Rome are numerous and suitable for every budget.
Leonardo Express Train (from Fiumicino to Termini)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost | €14 (per person, fixed rate) |
| Duration | 32 minutes (non-stop) |
| Frequency | Every 15 minutes (6:38 AM - 11:38 PM) |
| Destination | Termini Station (city center) |
| Tickets | Ticket machines, Trenitalia app, tobacco shops |
The Leonardo Express is the official train dedicated to airport passengers. It does not stop at other stations: it departs from Fiumicino Airport and arrives directly at platform 24 of Termini station. It is the fastest and most reliable means of transport, but also the most expensive among the trains.
Advantages:punctual, spacious for luggage, safe.
Disadvantages:costs more than the regional train, only arrives at Termini (if your hotel is in another area, you will need to take the metro or bus).
Regional Train FL1 (from Fiumicino to Trastevere, Ostiense, Tiburtina)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost | €8 |
| Duration | 45-50 minutes (up to Tiburtina) |
| Frequency | Every 15 minutes (5:57 AM - 11:27 PM) |
| Useful stops | Trastevere, Ostiense (pyramid), Tuscolana, Tiburtina |
| Tickets | Same channels as the Leonardo Express |
The FL1 regional train is the best choice for those who do not need to go to Termini. It stops at Trastevere (for the eponymous neighborhood), Ostiense (near Pyramid, metro B) and Tiburtina (metro B and high-speed trains). It costs €6 less than the Leonardo Express and takes only 10-15 minutes longer.
Advice:if you are staying in Trastevere or near metro B, take the FL1. If you are staying near Termini, take the Leonardo Express.
Shuttle bus from Fiumicino (Terravision, SIT Bus Shuttle, T.A.M.)
| Operator | Cost | Duration | Arrival in Rome | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terravision | €6 (one way), €11 (round trip) | 50-70 minutes | Termini (via Marsala) | Every 30-60 min |
| SIT Bus Shuttle | 7 € | 55 minutes | Termini (via Marsala) | Every 30 min |
| T.A.M. | 6 € | 50 min | Termini (Piazza dei Cinquecento) | Every 20-30 min |
Buses are the most economical solution after the regional train. They depart from the ground floor of the airport (exit 3 or 6). Traffic can extend the times, especially during peak hours (8:00-10:00 and 17:00-19:00).
Advantages:economical, frequent, drop off near Termini.
Disadvantages:subject to traffic, less convenient for large luggage, not always punctual.
Taxi from Fiumicino to Rome
Fixed rate for the historic center (within the Aurelian walls):50 € (including luggage and service)
Duration:40-60 minutes (depends on traffic)
Where to take them:arrival exit, follow the "Taxi" signs (white queue)
Attention:official taxis are white with the "Comune di Roma" sign and license plate. Avoid "illegal NCC" that offer rides outside the queue.
Additional fees:
1 € for each piece of luggage beyond the first (rarely applied)
Night surcharge (22:00 - 6:00): none, the fixed rate is valid 24h
Holiday surcharge: none
Advice:confirm the fixed rate of €50 before getting in. If the driver says "it's paid by the meter," get out and take another one (it would cost you €70-80 with traffic).
Private transfer (NCC) from Fiumicino
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost | €55-70 (standard car 1-3 people) |
| Booking | Online (Welcome Pickups, Viator, or local NCC) |
| Advantages | Driver waits for you with a sign, clean car, luggage assistance |
| Disadvantages | Costs more than a taxi |
It's worth it for groups of 4-5 people (they share the cost) or for those arriving late at night who want certainty.
Car rental from Fiumicino
All major operators (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise) are present at the airport. Prices start from €25-35 per day for a compact car.Not recommendedif you only need to visit Rome: traffic is chaotic, the ZTL (limited traffic zones) are full of cameras and fines arrive at home after months. Only take the car if you need to go on excursions outside of Rome (Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Abruzzo).
Giovan Battista Pastine Airport in Ciampino (CIA)
Ciampino is the airport for low-cost flights (Ryanair, Wizz Air, easyJet). It is only 15 km from the center, but with fewer options compared to Fiumicino. No direct train: you need to use a bus or taxi.
Shuttle bus from Ciampino to Rome
Buses are the main means of transport from Ciampino. Most arrive at Termini station.
| Operator | Cost | Duration | Arrival in Rome | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terravision | 6 € (one way), 11 € (round trip) | 40-50 minutes | Termini (via Marsala) | Every 20-30 min |
| SIT Bus Shuttle | 6 € | 40 min | Termini (via Marsala) | Every 30 min |
| Rome Airports Bus | 6 € | 45 min | Termini (Piazza dei Cinquecento) | Every 30 min |
| Schiaffini | 6 € | 40 min | Termini | Every 30 min |
Attention:buses leave from Ciampino only until around 11:30 PM. After that hour, only taxis or transfers.
Advantages:economical, frequent, fast (less traffic compared to Fiumicino).
Disadvantages:always arrive at Termini, there are no intermediate stops.
Bus + train (cheaper solution)
To save even more (but with more hassle):
Take the busCotralfrom Ciampino airport to the stationCiampino FS(1.20 €, 10 minutes)
At Ciampino FS station, take the regional train to Rome Termini (1.50 €, 15 minutes)
Total cost:2.70 €
Total duration:40-50 minutes (including train wait time)
The Cotral departs from the arrivals area (follow the signs for "Urban Buses"). Trains from Ciampino FS to Termini run every 15-30 minutes. It is the most low-cost solution, but inconvenient with heavy luggage.
Taxi from Ciampino to Rome
Fixed rate for the historic center (within the Aurelian walls):31 €
Duration:30-40 minutes
Where to take them:arrival exit, official white taxi line
Also here, confirm the fixed rate before getting in. Some dishonest taxi drivers may try to raise the fare by saying that your hotel is outside the walls (false, almost all central hotels are inside the walls).
Private transfer from Ciampino
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost | 40-55 € (car for 1-3 people) |
| Booking | Online |
| Advantages | Driver waits for you, no queues, direct arrival at the hotel |
It may be convenient for flights landing after midnight, when buses no longer run.
Comparison table: Fiumicino vs Ciampino
| Means | Fiumicino (FCO) | Ciampino (CIA) |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest train | 8 € (FL1) | 2.70 € (Cotral bus + train) |
| Shuttle bus | 6-7 € | 6 € |
| Fixed rate taxi | 50 € | 31 € |
| Average taxi time | 50 min | 35 min |
| Average train/bus time | 35-60 min | 40-50 min |
| Best low-cost option | FL1 8 € | Cotral bus + train 2.70 € |
| Best comfort option | Leonardo Express 14 € | Private transfer 40-55 € |
Tips for choosing based on the situation
If you arrive at Fiumicino
Low budget + light luggage:FL1 regional (8 €)
Low budget + heavy luggage:Terravision shuttle bus (6 €)
Fast + hotel near Termini:Leonardo Express (14 €)
Hotel in Trastevere or Ostiense area:FL1 regional (8 €)
We are 4 people:taxi (12.50 € per person) or transfer
Landing after midnight:taxi (50 €) – trains stop at 23:38
If you arrive at Ciampino
Very low budget:Cotral bus + train (2.70 €) – only if you have light backpack
Balanced solution:Terravision shuttle bus (6 €)
Hotel far from Termini (e.g. Trastevere):taxi (31 €) – avoid the hassle of changing transport
Night flight (after 23:30):taxi or transfer (no buses available)
How to get from Termini to your hotel
Once you arrive at Termini (from both Fiumicino and Ciampino), you may need to reach your hotel in another area. Here are the costs:
Metro:BIT ticket 1.50 € (100 minutes) – lines A and B
Bus:same ticket – stops are outside Termini
Taxi from Termini to hotel in the city center:7-12 € (not a fixed rate)
On foot:if the hotel is less than 2 km away (Monti, Repubblica, Esquilino area) – free
Mistakes to avoid when traveling from the airport to the city center
Taking a taxi without agreeing on a fixed fare– you risk paying 70-80 €.
Getting into private cars offering rides(not NCC taxis) – they are illegal, uninsured, and often charge double.
Buying a train ticket on board– fine of 50 €. Always validate it before boarding (at the yellow machines or at the turnstiles).
Confusing Leonardo Express with FL1– they are on the same platform but have different departures. Read the display.
Taking the shuttle bus without checking the last run– if you land at 11:00 PM and the bus leaves at 11:15 PM, you might not make it with baggage claim.
Useful apps for getting around
Trenitalia:buy tickets for Leonardo Express and FL1, check real-time schedules
Moovit:integrated bus + train + metro routes
Free Now:official taxi call (estimated fare before the ride)
Terravision / SIT Bus Shuttle:buy shuttle tickets in advance (online discounts)
Frequently asked questions about how to get to Rome from the airports
What is the cheapest way from Fiumicino to Rome?
The regional train FL1 for 8 €. Even cheaper would be the Cotral bus + train (but it doesn't exist from Fiumicino).
What is the fastest way from Fiumicino to Rome?
Leonardo Express: exactly 32 minutes without traffic.
Can I take a direct train from Ciampino?
No. You need to take a bus to the Ciampino FS station and then the train, or a direct shuttle bus.
Is the taxi from Fiumicino to Rome a fixed price?
Yes, €50 for any destination within the Aurelian walls (historic center). If your hotel is outside (e.g. Eur, San Paolo), the meter is used.
Is it safe to take the night shuttle buses?
The shuttle buses do not run after midnight (last departures around 11:30 PM). After that hour, only taxis or transfers.
Can I use the Roma Pass for airport trains?
No, the Roma Pass does not cover trains to the airports.
Which airport is closer to the center?
Ciampino (15 km) is closer than Fiumicino (32 km), but with fewer transport options.
Do I need to book the train ticket in advance?
It is not mandatory, but recommended during high season to avoid queues at ticket offices. You can purchase on the Trenitalia app up to 5 minutes before.
Do children pay for the train or bus?
Trains:under 4 free, 4-12 years half price (only if purchased at the ticket office, not online).
Shuttle bus:usually free under 3 years, then reduced fare (€3-5).
How much time before do I need to be at the airport for the return flight?
For domestic flights: 1.5 hours; international: 2 hours; intercontinental: 3 hours. Add 1 hour for transfer from the center.
FAQ
What is the best option from Fiumicino if I am alone with a backpack?
FL1 regional (€8) – you arrive at Trastevere or Ostiense in 45 minutes.
What is the best option from Ciampino if there are 3 of us with large suitcases?
Taxi (€31 total, €10.30 per person) – no hassle with luggage.
Are the trains from Fiumicino accessible to disabled people?
Yes, both Leonardo Express and FL1 have wheelchair spaces and accessible restrooms. Shuttle buses are less accessible (step up).
Can I bring my bicycle on the Leonardo Express?
Yes, if it is folded and in a bag. Not folded only if there is space (not guaranteed).
Is there a direct shuttle from Fiumicino to Ciampino?
No. You need to go through Termini with one means of transport and then change.
What is the best solution for someone arriving at Fiumicino at 6:00?
Leonardo Express (first train at 6:38) or FL1 (first train at 5:57). Shuttle buses leave later (around 7:00).
Plan
Knowhow to get to Rome from Fiumicino and Ciampino airportsis the first step to starting your trip off right. The choice depends on budget, number of bags, arrival time, and hotel location. In summary: from Fiumicino, the perfect balance is the regional train FL1 (€8); from Ciampino, the Terravision shuttle bus (€6) is the best compromise. A taxi is worth it for groups of 3-4 people or late-night arrivals. Avoid renting a car if you are staying in the city center. Plan ahead, download the necessary apps, and you will arrive at your destination stress-free.
To explore all other aspects of your trip – internal transport, neighborhoods, costs, restaurants, and attractions – consult the complete guide that covers every detail to help you move around and enjoy the Capital to the fullest.
Revision date:March 15, 2026