Few cities in the world capture the imagination quite like Rome. With ancient ruins at every turn, piazzas buzzing with life and trattorias tucked into cobbled alleys, exploring the Eternal City is as rewarding as it is unforgettable. But when planning your visit, you may find yourself asking: what’s the best way to get around Rome? From high-speed trains and city buses to walking tours and even arriving by cruise, there are countless ways to travel and explore this timeless capital.
Travel to Rome by Train
For many visitors already journeying through Europe, one of the best ways to travel to Rome is by train. Italy’s high-speed services—like Frecciarossa and Italo—link Rome with Florence, Milan and Naples in just a few hours. Imagine enjoying the Tuscan countryside rolling past your window before pulling into Roma Termini station, located right in the city’s heart.
Not only is train travel fast and convenient, but it also delivers you directly into the center without the hassle of airport transfers. For those short on time yet eager to see as much as possible, trains provide an effortless gateway to Rome.
Navigate the City by Metro
Once you’ve arrived, the Metro is often considered the best way to get around Rome. Three main lines connect major attractions such as the Colosseum, Vatican City and the Spanish Steps. The system may be smaller than those in other European capitals, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in efficiency. Tickets are affordable and trains arrive frequently, making it easy to hop from ancient ruins to lively piazzas in minutes. Plus, riding the Metro gives you a glimpse of everyday life, surrounded by locals heading to work, students and fellow travelers.
Take the Bus for a Scenic Ride
For those who prefer to stay above ground, buses offer a more scenic perspective of the Eternal City. Over 350 routes crisscross Rome, many of them passing through iconic areas like Piazza Venezia or along the banks of the Tiber. The views from the window reveal slices of daily life—from neighborhood markets being set up in the morning to glowing trattoria terraces at night. Sightseeing buses add even more flexibility, letting you hop off to explore the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon, then continue on at your own pace. While traffic can be unpredictable, buses reward you with a panorama of the city in motion.
Explore Rome on Foot
Sometimes the best way to explore Rome is on foot. The city is practically an open-air museum, where every corner holds something remarkable: a centuries-old fountain, an ancient column or a quiet piazza shaded by orange trees. Walking through the historic center allows you to soak in details you might otherwise miss, like the artistry of a hidden church façade or the aroma drifting from a bakery in Trastevere. Each stroll becomes its own adventure, weaving together the past and present in ways only Rome can offer.
Experience Rome by Cruise
For a truly memorable journey, one of the best ways to explore Rome is by cruise. Many itineraries dock in the nearby port of Civitavecchia, where curated shore excursions bring you directly into the Eternal City. From guided tours of the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica to walking explorations of the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, cruising offers a seamless way to combine transportation with immersive sightseeing. Arriving by sea also means you can step off the ship ready for a full day of discovery without worrying about logistics.
Travel to Rome by Plane
If you’re coming from across the Atlantic or further abroad, flying is often the most practical way to travel to Rome. Both Fiumicino and Ciampino airports welcome millions of international visitors each year. From there, trains, buses and taxis connect you to the city center, ensuring you can begin your Roman adventure without delay.
What is the Best Way to Get Around Rome?
The best way to get around Rome depends on how you want to experience it. Trains and the Metro are ideal for efficiency, buses allow you to enjoy the scenery and walking puts you at the heart of the city’s timeless charm. For an arrival that combines ease and experience, cruising into Rome is a perfect choice—pairing the joy of travel with the magic of shore excursions designed to showcase the city’s greatest treasures.
