Introduction
Getting around the Eternal City is easier than it looks — once you understand the basics. This guide covers everything you need to know about Rome public transportation, including the metro, buses, trams, tickets, and insider tips to travel like a local.
🚇 Rome Metro: Fast, Simple, and Limited
- Lines: 3 main lines — A (orange), B (blue), and C (green/new)
- Operating Hours: 5:30 AM – 11:30 PM (1:30 AM on weekends)
- Best Use: Quick trips between major tourist sites like the Colosseum, Termini, Vatican, and Spanish Steps
- Tip: Keep your ticket until you exit — you may need to validate it again
🚌 Rome Buses: Extensive But Confusing at First
- Covers the entire city, including areas the metro doesn’t reach
- Runs from early morning until around midnight, with some night buses
- Use the app (like Moovit or Rome Bus) to check real-time schedules
- Board through the front door, validate ticket inside
🚋 Trams: Scenic and Reliable
- Great for routes through Trastevere, Testaccio, and beyond
- Often faster than buses in heavy traffic
- Clean and good for short-distance connections
- Validate ticket on board just like the bus
🎟️ Tickets & Passes: What You Need to Know
- Standard ticket (BIT): €1.50 — valid for 100 minutes on all transport
- Day Pass (BIG): €6 — unlimited travel for 1 day
- 72-Hour Pass: €18 — great for a long weekend
- Roma Pass: Combines free public transport + museum entries
🔸 Where to buy: Metro stations, tabacchi shops, newsstands, vending machines
🔸 Validate all tickets on first use — fines apply if not
🛵 Alternative Options
- E-scooters & e-bikes (via apps like Lime, Dott) — great for short rides in pedestrian-friendly zones
- Taxis: Only use official white taxis from taxi stands or apps like Free Now
- Walking: Often the best way — Rome’s center is compact and full of surprises
✅ Quick Local Tips
- The metro can get crowded during rush hour (8–9 AM, 5–7 PM)
- Trams are ideal for a more relaxed, scenic ride
- Avoid driving — parking is a nightmare and traffic is intense
- Google Maps and Moovit work well for route planning
📌 Summary
Rome’s public transportation is affordable, reliable, and tourist-friendly once you get the hang of it. With a bit of planning, you can explore the city efficiently — from the Vatican to Trastevere and everywhere in between.