Getting Around Rome
Rome is one of the world's most famous cities, primarily for its historical architecture and importance as a religious mecca. Many of the top visitor attractions are located near the city center, and getting to them is not difficult. Landmarks such as the Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Pantheon are often within walking distance of a visitor's hotel. A few guidelines are offered here to make getting around in Rome a little easier.
Bus, Taxi, And Subway
Buses and trams in Rome are operated by the ATAC, and are the best bet for traveling to destinations within the city. Bus stops are labeled FERMATA, and are marked by large yellow signs that show all local routes serving a particular stop. It is best to ask at the hotel desk where to buy individual or daily bus passes. Taxis are quite popular in Rome, and very difficult to hail on a street corner, so it is best to ask the hotel to call one. All licensed taxis in Rome are white in color; do not use the services of private, unlicensed taxi "services". Taxi drivers in Rome are allowed to charge fares in increments that increase per kilometer traveled, as well as charge for luggage carried in the vehicle. Metropolitana is the name of the Rome subway; this mode of transportation runs throughout the central districts, and entrances to the stations are clearly marked with a large red M. Tickets are available at automatic vending machines in most stations, as well as in nearby tobacco shops and newsstands. In addition to Metropolitana, the Leonardo Express train has direct service from Leonardo DaVinci Airport to the central Rome terminal.
Walking Tours
Much of downtown Rome is most easily accessed on foot; in fact there is little auto traffic near the central squares. Hotels will have complete guide maps that show the easiest routes to the main attractions. Visitors can plan on an entire morning or afternoon on one of these trips, which incorporates many landmarks into a single set of walking directions.
Rental Cars
Renting a car is Rome is much the same as in any other city. Reservations can be made ahead of time to pick up a vehicle at the airport or elsewhere. Rental cars are a good idea if the trip involves the need to travel beyond the city itself; for destinations near the downtown districts rental cars may not be the best option, as street traffic is very heavy except in the major squares and near landmarks.