While many of Rome’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, using public transport is often convenient too. Public transport in Rome is very well organized, and consists mostly of buses, trams and metros. With the Roma Pass, a type of public transport card, you can travel for a certain number of hours with all these means of transport. In addition, this Roma Pass entitles you to a number of interesting discounts.
Public transport
Paying for public transport is done using the same system in the metro, bus and tram. You can buy individual tickets at the ticket offices or purchase a ticket that is valid for several days. Please note, you cannot buy individual tickets in the bus or tram itself. You must always do this in advance at the station at one of the kiosks or ticket machines. A standard ticket is valid for 100 minutes and costs €1.50.
Metro
The metro lines are especially useful when you want to travel a greater distance. Rome has two metro lines that run quite often and regularly. Metro line A, also called the red line, runs from Battistini to Anagnina. Metro line B, also called the blue line, runs from Rebibbia to Laurentina. The two lines intersect at Termini; the central train station.
A third metro line has been in the works for years, but it is not yet known exactly when it will be ready. Part of the third line has already been put into use. Metro line C, also called the green line, currently runs from San Giovanni to Monte Compatri.
Bus and tram
Rome also has an extensive network of buses and trams. These are actually complementing the metro network and take you everywhere you cannot reach by metro. The bus network is quite complex and buses do not always arrive on time. The tram network is also quite small; there are six different lines. Some of the main buses and trams for the sights are:
> Bus 40 and bus 64: Piazza Venetia and Vatican City
> Bus 60: Piazza Venetia, Coloseum and Circo Massimo
> Tram 8: Piazza Venetia and Trastevere
> Bus 62: Spanish Steps, Piazza Venetia and Vatican City
> Bus 81: Vatican Museum, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and Coloseum
> Tram 19: Vatican City, Piazza dei Gerani and Villa Borghese
Curious about the best places in Rome? Then read our tips for the 15 best sights in Rome.
Roma Pass
The Roma Pass can basically be seen as a public transport card. Especially when you stay in the Italian capital for more than 24 hours – which we definitely recommend! -, this is an economical option. Besides the fact that this card gives access to public transport, you also receive many benefits at attractions.
There are two different types of Roma Pass; one that is valid for 48 hours and one that is valid for 72 hours.
Roma Pass 48 hours
– Visit the first museum or archaeological site for free*
– Unlimited travel by public transport for 48 hours
– Discounts and special prices for events and exhibitions.
Costs: €32.00
Roma Pass 72 hours
– Visit the first two museums or archaeological sites for free*
– Unlimited travel by public transport for 72 hours
– Discounts and special prices for events and exhibitions.
Costs: €52.00
* including the Coloseum, Circo Massimo, Forum Romanum, Terme di Caracalla and much more.
