Owais Crawford
Rome is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, and if you have a long layover, you may be wondering if you can leave the airport and explore. The answer is yes, you can! However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, consider the length of your layover. While it is possible to leave the airport during a shorter layover, most people recommend having at least 7 hours to allow for travel time to and from the airport, as well as the time needed for customs and baggage claim. To make the most of your time, it is recommended to take the Leonardo Express train to the city centre, which takes about 30-35 minutes and is budget-friendly. In the city, you can explore famous sites such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona, and enjoy delicious Italian food. Just be sure to give yourself plenty of time to return to the airport and go through security again before your next flight.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recommended layover time | 7-8 hours |
| Transport to city centre | 32 minutes by express train |
| Transport cost | €14 |
| Transport frequency | Every 15-30 minutes |
| Customs | Allow 30-60 minutes |
| Luggage | Only carry-on or checked through |
| Walking | Wear comfortable shoes |
| Food | Quick pizza or panini |
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What You'll Learn
How much time do you need to leave the airport?
The time taken to get in and out of the city from Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport is an important factor to consider when planning a layover trip. The express train to the city centre takes 32 minutes, although it is recommended to factor in a little over an hour of travel time to account for any delays. The train costs €14 for a return ticket and departs every 30 minutes.
It is also important to consider the time taken up by airport procedures. By the time you get off the plane and head through customs, you could lose up to an hour of your layover time. Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least two hours before your departure time. If you have bags to collect and check in, this will also add to the time spent at the airport.
Based on the above, a layover of at least 7 hours is recommended for a trip into Rome. With a 6-hour layover, you may only have 2-3 hours to explore the city, which may not be worth the effort and cost of travelling to and from the airport.
However, if you are determined to make the most of a short layover, it is still possible to see some of Rome's top attractions. The historic centre is fairly compact, so you can walk to sights such as the Colosseum, Forum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and the Spanish Steps. Grab some pizza or a panini to eat as you walk, as you may not have time for a sit-down meal.
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Transport options to the city centre
There are several transport options for getting from Rome's Fiumicino or Ciampino Airport to the city centre.
The Leonardo Express train is a fast and straightforward option, taking 32 minutes to reach the city centre. It costs €14 and departs from the same platform where you arrive at the airport. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, but you must select a specific departure time. You can also buy them at the airport.
There are also bus options available, including the Terravision Bus, which is the cheapest public transport option. It costs about a third of the Leonardo Express price but takes twice as long and is not as frequent. There are three other competing airport bus services that also terminate at Termini Station.
Taking a taxi is another choice. A taxi from Fiumicino Airport to the centre of Rome will take approximately 40 minutes for the 34 km journey and will cost approximately €50. From Ciampino Airport, the journey is shorter, taking 25 minutes to travel the 16 kilometres, and costing approximately €35. Taxi prices may be higher in the evening or if you have a lot of luggage.
Walking is also an option, and a great way to see the city, but it may not be suitable for longer distances or if you have time constraints.
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What to do in Rome during a layover
Rome is a large city, but its historic centre is fairly compact, making it an ideal place to explore during a layover. If you're wondering what to do during a layover in Rome, here are some tips and suggestions to make the most of your time:
Getting to the City Centre
Firstly, consider your transportation options to and from the city centre. The Leonardo Express train is a popular choice, departing from Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Termini Station, the central transportation hub, every 15 to 30 minutes. The train journey takes around 30 to 35 minutes and costs €14 or $30 for a round trip. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-share, but be aware of potential traffic and the associated costs.
Exploring the City
Once you arrive in the city centre, you have several options for exploring. Many of Rome's famous landmarks are within walking distance of each other, making walking a quick, free, and immersive way to get around. Here are some possible itineraries for your layover:
- Colosseum and Surrounds: Start at the Colosseum, then walk to the Forum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and the Spanish Steps. This route offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the historic atmosphere.
- Piazza Navona and Trastevere: Begin at the Trevi Fountain, then walk to the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. From there, you can walk towards Trastevere, a charming neighbourhood known for its restaurants and cafes.
- Seaport in Fiumicino: If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, consider visiting the seaport in Fiumicino, the town where the airport is located. Here, you can enjoy a nice meal, especially if you're visiting on December 24th, when Italians traditionally eat fish.
Practical Considerations
To make the most of your layover, consider the following practical tips:
- Time Management: Keep in mind that you'll need time to navigate customs, collect your bags, and check-in for your next flight. Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least two hours before departure. Aim for a layover of at least seven hours to have a more relaxed experience.
- Luggage: To maximise your time, pack carry-on luggage only or ensure your bags are checked through to your final destination. This will save you time at baggage claim.
- Meals: Avoid lengthy sit-down meals, as they can take up valuable time. Instead, opt for quick bites like pizza or panini, allowing you to refuel while on the move.
- Offline Maps: Before your trip, download an offline maps app, such as Maps.me, along with the Rome map, to help you navigate the city without relying on data or WiFi.
- Accommodation: If you have an overnight layover, consider staying in a central location, such as near Termini, to minimise travel time and maximise your exploration time.
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Where to stay during an overnight layover
Rome's Fiumicino Airport is relatively small, with a compact layout that's easy to navigate. The airport provides a diverse range of culinary options, 24-hour food options, lockers, lounges, mobile charging points, and shower facilities, making it a convenient hub for those with extended layovers.
However, if you want to explore the city, it's best to plan your accommodation in advance. Staying in a hotel or Airbnb near Termini Station is a good option, as it offers great access to transportation and the airport. It also has several gelato shops, including Grom and Venchi.
From Termini, you can easily walk to the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain. If you're travelling from the airport to the city by taxi, ask the driver to drop you off near the Colosseum, and store your luggage at the airport's luggage deposit.
For a quick overnight layover, it's helpful to map out a couple of must-see spots in advance. Rome is beautiful at night, and you'll find cafes, bars, and gelato shops open as you roam. Be sure to sample the local food and drink, and consider making a swanky reservation. Remember to get some sleep, and set a curfew for yourself to ensure you don't miss your flight!
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How to prepare for your layover
Plan your time
Before your trip, decide what you want to do during your layover. If you want to visit the city, you should allow for at least seven hours, with eight or more hours being ideal. Factor in travel time to and from the airport, which can be around one hour each way. Also, remember to leave plenty of time to collect your bags, check into your next flight, go through security, and get to your gate. Most airlines recommend arriving at least two hours before your departure time.
Choose your transport
If you plan to go into Rome, decide how you will get there. The Leonardo Express train is a popular choice, taking around 30-35 minutes to reach Termini Station in the city centre. It departs every 15-30 minutes and costs around €14 or $30 for a return ticket. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or bus, which should also take less than an hour each way and may be a better option if you are travelling as a group.
Prepare your luggage
To maximise your time in Rome, only pack carry-on luggage or ensure your bags are checked through to your final destination. If you do need to collect your luggage, consider leaving it at the airport's luggage storage facilities.
Get ready on the plane
If you want to save time in the airport, use the restroom on the plane to change out of your travel clothes and freshen up. Try to sit as far forward on the plane as possible so you can get off quicker.
Download maps and guides
Before your trip, download offline maps of Rome and any guides or itineraries you want to follow. This will allow you to access maps and information without using data or WiFi.
Plan your route
If you are short on time, stick to the city centre and avoid lining up or paying to see attractions. Consider visiting the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trastevere, Forum, and Spanish Steps, all of which are in the historic centre of Rome.
Choose your accommodation wisely
If you have an overnight layover, choose accommodation that is central and close to transport hubs like Termini Station. This will allow you to quickly drop off your luggage and get out to explore.
Manage your time wisely
Remember that you may not have time for a long sit-down meal, so grab a quick bite like a pizza or panini instead. If you are staying overnight, set a curfew for yourself to ensure you get enough sleep and don't miss your next flight.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover in Rome. However, it is important to give yourself plenty of time to get back to the airport, go through security, and board your next flight.
It is recommended to have at least a 7-hour layover in Rome if you want to leave the airport and explore the city. This accounts for the time taken to get off the plane and go through customs, as well as travel to and from the city centre.
The Leonardo Express train is the fastest way to get from Rome's Fiumicino Airport to the city centre, taking around 32 minutes. The train departs every 15 to 30 minutes and costs €14.
If you don't want to go far from the airport, you can visit the nearby town of Fiumicino, located on the Tyrrhenian Sea. You can also take a short trip to Ostia Antica, a well-preserved archaeological park with incredible views.
