Roberta Aguirre
Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is one of the two major international airports in Rome, the other being Rome Ciampino (CIA). If you have a long layover at FCO, you may be able to leave the airport and explore a little bit of the city. It is recommended that you have a layover of at least 7 hours in Rome, with 8+ hours being ideal, as you need to factor in travel time to and from the airport, as well as time for security and customs. The quickest way to get into the city is by taking the Leonardo Express train, which takes about 32 minutes to get to Termini Station and costs €14 each way. Alternatively, you can take the regional train FL1 for €8 each way, which takes about 30 minutes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recommended layover time in Rome | 7 hours or more |
| Transport from the airport to the city centre | 32 minutes by express train; 30 minutes by regional train |
| Transport cost | €14 each way for the express train; €8 each way for the regional train |
| Time spent in transit | Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Time spent in customs | 30-40 minutes |
| Luggage storage | Available at Terminal 3, International Arrivals, close to door n°6; costs €10 per luggage item for 24 hours |
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What You'll Learn
Transport options to Rome city centre
Rome's main airport, Fiumicino, is less than 20 miles from the city centre and offers several transport options for travellers to get downtown. The best option for you will depend on your budget, the amount of time you have, and your final destination in the city.
Train
The Leonardo Express train connects Fiumicino airport with Termini, the main train station in Rome. This is an express train with no stops, so it's a quick option, taking around 32 minutes. The train leaves the airport every half hour, or every 15 minutes during peak hours. Tickets cost €14-18 each way. From Termini, you can take a taxi or the metro to your final destination.
There is also a regional train called the FL1, which connects Fiumicino Airport with several points in central Rome, although it does not go to Termini. You can get off at Trastevere, Ostiense, Tuscolana, or Tiburtina stations, depending on where you're staying.
Taxi
A taxi from Fiumicino Airport to the centre of Rome will take around 40 minutes for the 34 km journey and will cost approximately €50. The price will be higher if you are travelling in the evening or have a lot of luggage. There is a fixed price of €48 to travel within the walls of the city.
Bus
You can also take a bus shuttle from the airport to the city centre. This is a cheaper option than the train or taxi but will take longer.
Walking
If you're looking for a free and easy way to get around Rome, consider walking. It's a great way to fully immerse yourself in the city and get some light exercise. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes!
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How to maximise your time in Rome
If you're wondering whether you can leave Rome airport during a layover, the answer is yes. However, you will need to factor in the time it takes to get through customs and security, and ensure you have enough time to make your next flight. It is recommended to keep at least one hour for these processes. Additionally, most airlines advise arriving at the airport at least two hours before your departure time. With these considerations in mind, you can calculate how much time you have available for exploring Rome.
To make the most of your limited time in Rome, it is advisable to take the Leonardo Express train, a non-stop service that connects the airport to Termini Station, the main train station in Rome. This journey takes approximately 32 minutes, although it could be up to 65 minutes if you just miss a train. From Termini Station, you can easily access the metro to get around the city. Trains depart every half hour, or every 15 minutes during peak hours, with tickets priced at €14 each way. If you're looking for a more economical option, consider taking the regional train FL1, which costs €8 and takes around 30 minutes.
To maximise your time in the city, it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes as walking is a free and immersive way to explore Rome. Additionally, consider downloading offline maps and saving key locations before your trip, especially if you do not plan to use mobile data during your layover. This will help you navigate efficiently without relying on WiFi or data connections.
If you have luggage, consider using the luggage storage facilities at the airport or in the city to avoid carrying your bags with you during your layover. This will make it easier to move around and explore. The luggage storage at Fiumicino Airport in Terminal 3, International Arrivals, is open from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and costs €10 per item for 24 hours.
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Tips for getting through Rome customs
If you're travelling to Rome, you'll likely be arriving at the Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Here are some tips to help you navigate customs and make the most of your time in the city, especially if you're on a layover.
At the Airport
- If you have an electronic passport, there's usually no line, and you can breeze through customs. However, if you don't have an electronic passport, it's recommended to leave 3-4 hours for customs, especially if there are multiple international flights arriving at the same time.
- Make sure to use the left side where the USA passports are digitally recognized.
- If you're taking a taxi, head outside and turn left to the taxi stand. Only take official taxis, and be wary of anyone offering "help" with hotels or car services.
- If you're taking a bus or train, follow the signs from the airport.
- Use the restroom before leaving customs to avoid using public facilities.
- If you have time, change your clothes in the bathroom, especially if you don't need to wait for checked baggage.
- Store your luggage to maximize your time in the city.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as walking is a great way to explore Rome.
Planning Your Layover
- A layover of at least 7 hours is recommended to explore Rome. With an 8-hour layover, you can get a decent taste of the city.
- Factor in travel time to and from the airport, which is about 32 minutes by express train.
- Allow time for picking up your bags, checking in for your flight, going through security, and reaching your gate. Most airlines recommend arriving at least two hours before departure.
- To maximize your time, pack carry-on luggage only or ensure your bags are checked through to your final destination.
- Download offline maps of Rome before your trip to navigate the city easily without relying on data or WiFi.
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Luggage storage options at Rome airport
Rome Fiumicino Airport, also known as Leonardo da Vinci Airport, offers a traditional left luggage room in Terminal 3, International Arrivals, close to door number 6. This service is available daily from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. The daily rate is €10 per 24 hours, but availability is limited, and it may not be suitable for larger items.
If you're looking for alternative luggage storage options, there are several reliable companies operating near the airport and throughout Rome. These include:
- Stasher: Stasher provides safe and convenient luggage storage options near Rome Fiumicino Airport and other key attractions and transport hubs. Their flat fee per day covers oversized or overweight items, and their award-winning customer service is always available to assist you.
- Radical Storage: Radical Storage has partnered with businesses and local establishments, including hotels, shops, and restaurants, to offer secure and affordable luggage storage options near Rome's airports. They have over 100 locations throughout Rome, with some spots open 24/7, and they do not restrict the size or weight of your bags.
- Qeepl: Qeepl offers a network of storage options across Rome, including popular areas like Tiburtina Rome, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain. Their service is affordable, with a flat rate of €4.90 per day.
- Nannybag: Nannybag provides secure storage facilities for various luggage sizes and sports equipment. They have multiple locations near Rome's airports and train stations, making them an ideal choice for passengers with early arrivals or late departures. Nannybag protects your luggage for up to €10,000 against any incidents during their service.
- Stow Your Bags: While not much information is available online, this company was recommended by a user on Reddit for luggage storage in Rome.
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How to get around Rome on a budget
Rome is a city filled with millions of visitors every year, and with world-famous attractions, prices for hotels, tours, and restaurants can be expensive. However, with some planning, it is possible to explore Rome on a budget.
Firstly, consider your accommodation. There are religious institutes in Rome that offer good-quality, low-cost accommodation, often in central locations. You do not need to be religious to stay in these accommodations, and while there may be a curfew, this is a small compromise for a pleasant and clean place to stay. Alternatively, staying outside the city centre in areas such as Garbatella, Trieste Salary, or San Giovanni, and commuting by metro, can significantly reduce accommodation costs.
When it comes to getting around Rome, walking is a great way to save money and immerse yourself in the city. Rome has a lot of history embedded in its streets, so you can save money and still experience a lot of what the city has to offer. The metro is also an option, although it is reportedly not great in terms of appearance and amenities. Rome also has sightseeing buses, which are a good way to get to know the main points of interest, and there are three urban railway lines called Ferrovie Urbane, which complement the subway.
In terms of food, while there are famous pasta dishes to try, Rome also has a variety of street food available at a lower cost. Be aware that prices for food will be higher near famous attractions. You can also try 'rosticcerie' or 'pizzeria al taglio', which are the equivalent of takeout joints, selling pizza, suppli, and other Roman specialties for just a few euros.
When it comes to attractions, some of the biggest historical sights are behind a paywall, but many are free to visit. The Trevi Fountain, for example, is free to visit, and it is said that tossing a coin into the fountain guarantees a return trip to Rome. The Spanish Steps are also free to visit and offer a nice view of the city. For a great view, you can go inside the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II for free. While you would need to buy a ticket to enter the Colosseum, you can stroll for free down Via dei Fori Imperiali and look down into the ruins of the Roman Forum. There is also a small garden called Monte Oppio above the Colosseum metro stop that offers a great view of the Colosseum and the sunset.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to have a layover of at least 7 hours in Rome, with 8+ hours being ideal. By the time you get off the plane and head through customs, you will lose about an hour of your layover time.
It takes about 32 minutes to reach the city centre by express train, which is the best way to get in and out of the city to avoid traffic. It is advised to factor in a little over an hour of travel time to get to and from the airport.
Only pack carry-on luggage or ensure your bags are checked all the way to your final destination. Before your trip, download an offline maps app and a map of Rome. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as walking is a quick, free, and easy way to get around the city.
Remember to keep at least 1 hour for security and customs when you return to the airport. Also, remember to arrive at least one hour before your next flight's departure time.
Rome customs can be time-consuming and emotionally draining. It is advised to spend a solid 2 hours at the airport for international departures, as there are multiple terminals. If you have to re-check baggage, it might not be worth leaving the airport.
