Getting around Rome is simple when you have the right transportation guide
There are many travel options when visiting Rome on your holiday vacation. The following lists some cheap and easy ways to tour the Eternal city.
Be sure to also get a map or brochure of the city prior to your departure.
Bicycles:
Bicycles can be rented near the Porta Pinciana in the Villa Borghese. Villa Doria Pamphili, 2km (1mi) south of the Vatican, is the largest park in Rome and a lovely spot for a stroll or a picnic. For the family, there are pony rides and Sunday Punch & Judy shows on Gianicolo Hill, a short walk south-east of the holy city.
Horse and Cart Rides
Tours through Rome are also available by horse and cart and start from the Piazza di Spagna. Horse & cart (carriage) rides are available throughout the city, but be sure to check and see if the operator is licensed. As well – some offer better rates than others and often give deals when business is slow. Negotiations can start at $100 for a 45 minute ride but truly wind up paying about $25 with tip. If you have been walking all day its nice to take this gentle ride. The cobblestones make the carriage vibrate and it is quite soothing. Also, talk to your hotel concierge and they can get a carriage ride organized for you and your family.
Buses:
Buses are the main form of public transportation in Rome. Orange buses run by ATAC have low cost, frequent service around the city. Blue COTRAL buses cover the region and the suburbs of Rome.
Driving and Walking
You might prefer to drive or walk in Rome. As the buses are often crowded and traffic is slow. The bus operates Mon-Sat 5:30 AM – 11:30 PM Night buses on key routes run less frequently from midnight – 5:30AM. Late night buses have a conductor who sells tickets. During the regular daytime and evening hours tickets must be purchased in advance from automatic machines, shops and news stands. Information:167 431784.
The Metro
The Metro is a subway system with two main lines: A and B. It is primarily a commuter service and does not travel close to the city center attractions.
Taxis:
Licensed taxis are yellow and white with a “taxi” sign on the roof. Be sure to use only these. When hailing a cab, be sure the meter is set at zero. Drivers are not supposed to stop on the street to pick up fares. They are supposed to wait at taxi stands. Stands can be found at Termini, Piazza Venezia, Largo Argentina, Piazza S. Sonnino, Pantheon, Piazza di Spagna and Piazza San Silvestro.
Air Travel:
Flights arrive at Leonardo da Vinci Airport, also known as Fiumicino. Shuttle trains link the airport with Stazione Termini in the city center. Taxis are expensive from the airport. A prepaid “car with driver” is available at the SOCAT desk in the International arrivals hall.
Rail Service:
Most trains arrive and depart from Stazione Terminal, which is conveniently located for most of the central city. Train information: 147 88 8088 (toll free)