How to Get from Ciampino Airport to Rome's City Center

Ah, Ciampino Airport — the little airport that packs a punch! If you're landing here, welcome to Rome! You’re already close to the Eternal City, just about 12 kilometers southeast of the city center. But I know the moment you land, your main thought will be: How do I get from Ciampino airport to Rome's city center? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with all the options, from budget-friendly to speedy and stress-free. Let’s dive in!

Photo by Gizem Ş.

The Terravision Bus

One of the easiest and most wallet-friendly ways to get into Rome is the Terravision bus. Tickets cost just €6 one way or €11 for a round trip if you book in advance online (and I highly recommend doing that). The bus runs every 30-40 minutes, and the journey takes about 40 minutes to get to Roma Termini, which is the main train station and a great starting point for exploring the city.

Where to catch it: Once you exit the arrivals terminal, follow the signs for buses. It’s super straightforward, and you’ll see a bunch of Terravision signs.

My tip: Arrive a little early to snag a good seat — those windows are perfect for your first views of Rome!

Shuttle Bus

Besides Terravision, there are other shuttle buses like SIT Bus Shuttle and Rome Airport Bus. Prices are similar, around €6-7 one way, and they’ll also drop you off at Roma Termini. These are perfect if Terravision tickets sell out (which happens during peak season) or if you just missed a bus and don’t want to wait too long. I also personally use SIT Bus as they have some extra stops by the Vatican, which is closer to home for me than Termini.

Insider note: If you’re traveling with lots of luggage, the buses usually have plenty of storage underneath.

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Taxi

If convenience is your priority and you’re not pinching pennies, grab a taxi. There’s a fixed rate for official taxis from Ciampino to Rome city center. It used to be €30, but from what I remember, the rates have increased by 5 or 10 euros in 2025. Yep, that includes luggage and up to four passengers. The journey takes about 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Where to find them: Look for the official white taxis with the “Comune di Roma” logo at the taxi stand. Don’t fall for unofficial taxis that might approach you inside the terminal.

Pro tip: If you’re staying near Termini or in the historic center, this is definitely the quickest way to get to your hotel without the hassle of navigating public transport.

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Train

Surprise! There’s no direct train from Ciampino Airport to Rome, but you can make it work with a little extra effort. Just take a 5-minute shuttle bus (about €1.20) from the airport to Ciampino’s train station. From there, hop on a regional train to Roma Termini. Tickets cost just €1.50, and the train ride takes about 15 minutes. You can book your train in advance here to skip the lines at the airport.

In total, it’ll cost you less than €3 and about 30-40 minutes, depending on your connection times.

Why I like this: It’s cheap, and the short train ride gives you a chance to experience a bit of Italian local life. Plus, the views as you approach Rome are delightful!

Photo by Markus Winkler

Car Rental

If you’re planning to explore the countryside or head to places outside Rome, renting a car at the airport might be a good idea. Most major companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate here. Expect to pay around €30-50 per day, depending on the car type and insurance. You can also use an aggregator like discovercars.com to compare prices and reserve your car in advance. This ensures the best deals and ensures that you'll definitely have a car, even during the peak summer months.

What to keep in mind: Driving in Rome’s city center can be chaotic (and parking is a headache!), so I only recommend this if your main goal is exploring beyond the city.

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Ride-Sharing Apps: Hit or Miss

Apps like Uber and FREENOW operate in Rome, and are great for skipping the long taxi lines at the airport. Rome currently only has the Uber Black option, so expect prices to be similar to or higher than taxis. If you’re feeling app-savvy, it’s worth checking prices when you land.

If you're opting for FREENOW, get 25% (up to € 5,00) off your 1st FREENOW trip when you use my referral code: lkm84569h. Not got the app yet? Download it here.

My Final Tips for Ciampino Arrivals

• Check your flight time: If you’re arriving late at night, double-check the bus schedules. Taxis or ride-sharing might be your best bet after hours.
• Buy tickets in advance: For buses, it’s always a good idea to book online to guarantee your spot and sometimes save a euro or two.
• Pack light: If you’re lugging heavy suitcases, taxis or the direct buses are your best friends.