How to Get Around Rome as a Solo Female Traveller

Getting around in Rome can be tricky, especially if it is your first time in the Eternal City. With its glamour and extravagance, chaotic charm, and crowd, Rome makes it quite natural for you to feel lost. And it can be a daunting experience. But, knowing how to get around Rome, you can traverse the Roman streets like a pro!

To ease this daunting task, I have shared a comprehensive guide to getting around Rome in this article. So, while you may have your Rome itinerary ready, here’s how you can navigate through them swiftly.

How to travel to Rome from the airport

To begin with, first, you need to reach Rome from the airport. Or else, how will you get around the city? (Sorry for my PJ) Rome has two airports – Leonardo da Vinci and Ciampino.

Depending on which airport you land at, here are your options:

If travelling from Leonardo da Vinci or Fiumicino, you can avail of a bus shuttle and taxi. Or, you can board Leonardo Express Airport Shuttle.  

Whereas, travelling from Ciampino, you have only two options: opt for a bus shuttle or a taxi.

That said, private airport transport is available at both airports.

Now that you know how to reach Rome and have a plan of action, let’s get started!

1. Public transport: The best way to get around Rome

Public transport in Rome is the most convenient way of getting around the city, and Rome has a well-connected transport network. Whether bus, tram, train, or metro, the Rome public transport has your back.

Familiarise yourself with it to commute through the city easily. Besides, they are cost-effective and safe. So use it to your advantage. 

How to get around by bus

Buses in Rome are a saviour in disguise. At least, I think it is. Why? Because you can go anywhere in the city by bus, they are cheap and give a local experience.

To get around Rome by bus, head to the main bus station. It is right in front of the Termini Station. They have an information booth with all the listed routes and timings, and you go through them carefully before hopping on one. Usually, the bus services start early, around 5:30 am, and go until midnight.

Piazza Venezia, Largo di Torre Argentina, and Piazza del Risorgimento are some of the other bus stations in the city.

How to get around by train or tram

There is two distinct railway system that functions in Rome. The ATAC manages the three urban railway networks. At the same time, Trenitalia manages the regional railway network. You can select as per your preference.

How to get around by metro

Unlike other cities in Italy, metro services in Rome are limited. But it remains the fastest public transport in the city. There are mainly two major metro lines: Line A and Line B.

You can use Line A metro to explore the Vatican, Spanish Steps, and Piazza del Popolo. However, if you want to visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, or Pyramid of Cestius, board the metros on Line B. Metro Line C is still under construction.

On weekdays, the metro operates from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm. But on weekends, it operates till 1:30 am.

Buy a Roma Pass or transport pass.

If you are planning to travel by public transport in Rome, be wise and purchase either a Roma Pass or a transport pass. It helps to cut costs, and you also don’t have to face the vending machines all the time.

I prefer Roma Pass. The perks are much greater than a transport pass, and you can hop on public transport without any limitations. You also have free access to a few of the popular tourist attractions of Rome. A 48-hour pass costs €32, and a 72-hour pass costs €52.

Remember: The transport pass is valid for all the routes except the Fiumicino route.

Tip: While travelling in public transport, keep your belongings safe. Otherwise, you might face common scams in Rome, like pickpocketing.

2. Get around Rome on foot.

You must have heard this a thousand times already, and here I go again: Rome is best to explore on foot. It is, and it will be an injustice to the cobbled streets of Rome if you don’t. Have a GPS or map for directions, and get started.

You can explore almost all of the major attractions by walking. They are at a stone’s throw distance from each other. And these areas are generally traffic free. So, absorb Roman life like never before!

Just wear a comfortable pair of shoes and start walking. You never know how Rome will surprise you. Every corner in Rome tells a different story; there is no better way to experience this than walking. 

You can even join in for the free walking tours. There are different categories of them too. For example, you have a walking tour of Rome’s non-touristy places and the city’s hidden gems.

3. Take a Vespa tour to get around Rome.

The other best way to get around Rome is by Vespa. Rent one and explore the city in your way. But before doing that, ensure you have a proper license. And, only opt for it if you KNOW how to ride. 

Other than that, you can even rent and ride an e-bike or scooter to roam around Rome.

4. How to get around Rome by car or taxi

Another way to get around Rome is by driving a car or taxiing. But these won’t be your preferred way to roam around in Rome. 

Driving a car in Rome equals a nightmare, and there is hardly any parking. Above all, outsiders are not even allowed to drive in the limited traffic zone area.

And, if you are planning to take a taxi, only do it from the official taxi stands. Mind you, taxi scams in Rome are very common, and a usual taxi ride starts at €3 per meter.

Pick your favourite mode of transportation to get around Rome.

Of all the ways mentioned above of getting around in Rome, pick the one that fulfils your travel need. If you are on a shoestring budget, opt for exploring on foot, and you can also hop on buses to cover the longer distance within the city.

If comfort is your concern, and budget is not an issue, a car or taxi will be an ideal way to get around the city. Besides, for a classic Italian experience, get around Rome in a Vespa.

With that, we have come to the end of this blog post. Regardless of your transportation mode, be mindful of your surrounding. As a solo female traveller, safety remains the biggest concern today. Stick to your plan and take the basic precautions. So you can get around the Eternal City on a solo trip smoothly!