How to Get to Rome: Flights, Airport and Transport

How to Get to Rome: Flights, Airport and Transport

Rome is one of the most well-connected cities in Europe, with two airports and excellent public transport. Whether you are flying from Brazil or arriving from another European city, there are plenty of options to reach the Eternal City.

Flights from Brazil

There are no direct flights from Brazil to Rome. The most common routes connect through Lisbon (TAP), Paris (Air France), Frankfurt (Lufthansa), Madrid (Iberia) or Amsterdam (KLM). Flights typically depart from Sao Paulo (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro (GIG), and the total travel time ranges from 13 to 18 hours depending on the layover. ITA Airways (the successor to Alitalia) also operates connections via European hubs. Prices usually range from R$3,500 to R$6,000 for a round trip in economy class, depending on the season.

Rome's Airports

Rome has two main airports:

• Fiumicino (FCO) – Leonardo da Vinci Airport – The main international airport, located about 30 km southwest of the city center. This is where most intercontinental and European flights arrive.
• Ciampino (CIA) – A smaller airport used mainly by low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air. It is located about 15 km southeast of the center and is convenient for budget travelers arriving from other European cities.

Getting from Fiumicino Airport to the City Center

• Leonardo Express – A direct train from Fiumicino to Roma Termini station. It takes about 32 minutes and costs around EUR 14 per person. Trains depart every 15 minutes. This is the fastest and most practical option.
• FL1 Regional Train – A cheaper alternative (around EUR 8) that stops at Trastevere, Ostiense and Tiburtina stations. Useful if your hotel is near one of these stops.
• SIT Bus Shuttle / Terravision – Bus services connecting Fiumicino to Termini for around EUR 6-7. The ride takes about 50-60 minutes depending on traffic.
• Taxi – A fixed-rate taxi from Fiumicino to anywhere within the Aurelian Walls costs EUR 50 (set by the municipality). The trip takes 30-50 minutes depending on traffic.

Getting from Ciampino Airport to the City Center

• SIT Bus / Terravision – Bus services to Termini station for about EUR 5-6, taking around 40 minutes.
• Taxi – Fixed rate of EUR 31 to destinations within the Aurelian Walls.

Getting Around Rome

Rome's public transport system is managed by ATAC. A single ticket (BIT) costs EUR 1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes on buses and trams, or a single metro ride. A 24-hour pass costs EUR 7, a 48-hour pass EUR 12.50, and a 72-hour pass EUR 18. The metro has three lines (A, B and C), but many attractions in the historic center are best reached on foot or by bus.

Arriving by Train from Other Italian Cities

Rome is a major hub for Italy's high-speed rail network. Trenitalia's Frecciarossa and Italo trains connect Rome to Florence (1h30), Naples (1h10), Milan (3h) and Venice (3h45). Roma Termini is the main station, centrally located near many hotels and attractions. Booking in advance on Trenitalia or Italo can save you a lot — tickets from Florence start at EUR 20 if purchased early.