How to Get Around Italy From Rome

It's often said that all roads lead to Rome, while the reverse is equally true - Rome leads to all roads. From Rome, every breathtaking part of Italy is accessible! Wondering how to get around Italy from Rome is now a thing of the past. You can journey north to Venice, head south to Naples, and arrange high-speed trains, flights, and self-driving tours. Keep reading to find out the best way for you to get around and make your Italian trip easy and fun.

Why Start in Rome?

Rome is not only the capital of Italy but also one of the cities with the most developed transportation in the country. As the center of Italy's transportation network, it connects to almost every major city through a system of railways and roads that radiate outward like the hub of a wheel. Departing from here, your journey will be smooth and well-connected.

Transportation Options From Rome

By Air:

Flying is suitable for long-distance or overseas travel, as it's faster, but you'll need to leave time for security and getting on the plane, and flight tickets can be more expensive.

There are two airports in Rome: Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA). The main one is Fiumicino, which is the departure point of major international and domestic flights, with complete facilities, and connects most cities in Europe and Italy. Ciampino is Rome's second-most important international airport; though it is smaller compared to Fiumicino, it would be easier to find the boarding gates and your private guide.

By Train:

The high-speed train has now become one of the most popular ways to travel, especially when traveling between cities. It's not only fast and punctual but also quite comfortable. However, buying tickets at the last minute isn't cost-effective, as the prices tend to be higher, so remember to book online 3 to 5 months ahead of time.

Rome Termini is the main and biggest train station in Rome, situated in the city center with excellent transport connections. The station features clear directions and extensive facilities, simplifying transfers and waiting. While you're waiting for your train, you can shop, eat, or even treat yourself to a spa.

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By Bus:

Taking a bus is the cheapest way to get around Italy from Rome, which is suitable for a budget trip; for example, you can get to Naples for as little as about $11. On the other hand, buses are slower, and long rides can be less comfortable, particularly with lots of luggage. If you're not in a hurry and looking to reduce travel expenses, the bus is still an option worth considering.

You can get on the bus from Rome Tiburtina Bus Station and Rome Anagnina. Both of them are the main boarding points for a trip to get around Italy from Rome.

Road Trip:

Well, a road trip sounds like a good choice, especially when driving yourself. Since you can explore the destinations at your own pace, roll down the windows, appreciate the beautiful view passing by, and feel the gentle breeze sweeping on your face. However, you need to consider where to park and potential costs such as gas and highway fees. And you may feel tired after a long-distance drive, especially if you are not familiar with the road conditions and local traffic rules.

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If you like, we provide private car services with a driver, so you don't have to worry about driving or directions, which is really great if you're traveling with a group.

Best Way to Get to Italy's Other Places From Rome

From Rome to Florence

City View of Florence

By High-speed Train:

It's about 277 km from Rome to Florence, and the fastest and most advisable mode of transport is the high-speed train, with a travel time of just around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

By Bus:

Alternatively, you can take a bus, which is a more budget-friendly option but takes around 3 hours and is less comfortable.

I Also Want to Travel From Florence To....

Don't just assume the high-speed train is always the most convenient option; the trip from Florence to Siena is an exception. While there are trains, they take longer and require transfers. Instead, taking a bus from Villa Costanza Bus Station is a faster and more direct way to reach Siena. However, for Pisa or Lucca, the train is a great choice, offering direct connections from Santa Maria Novella (SMN). The train to Pisa takes around 50 minutes, and to Lucca, about 1 hour and 20 minutes - quick and easy.

From Rome to Venice

City View of Venice

By High-speed Train:

Getting from Rome to Venice, which is about 530 km, the most recommended way to travel is by high-speed train, with a journey time of about 3 hours and 50 minutes. This offers a direct route from Rome Termini to Venice Santa Lucia station, dropping you off right by the canals with easy connections to water transport.

By Air:

Flying is another option. Although the flight time is similar to the train, the added time for security and waiting means the high-speed train is generally more efficient.

Road Trip:

If you choose to drive yourself, please note that cars are prohibited in Venice's city center; you'll usually need to park at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto (situated before Piazzale Roma) outside the city and then take a water bus into Venice.

I Also Want to Travel From Venice To....

Going from Venice to Milan or the Dolomites is also pretty easy. For Milan, there's a direct high-speed train to Milano Centrale train station. For the Dolomites, it's best to drive yourself for greater flexibility and to appreciate the scenic journey. Or, feel free to contact us, and we can arrange a private service for you.

From Rome to Naples

An Aerial View of Naples

Departing from Rome, a high-speed train will get you to Naples, 228 km away, in about an hour. If you opt for a bus, the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, and driving yourself takes roughly the same amount of time but offers a completely different experience - head south on Via Casilina, reaching the Grande Raccordo Anulare (A90/E80), and then continue to the A1/E45 toll highway. Driving yourself offers not just flexibility but also allows for leisurely stops, such as a break in Frosinone, a lovely town that's ideal for a meal or an overnight stop.

From Rome to Milan

View of Milan Cityscape

By High-speed Train:

Rome to Milan is about 641 km, and many people's first thought is to fly – but hold on, the high-speed train is actually more convenient. Departing from Rome Termini, it takes around 3 hours to reach Milan. Without a long wait, you'll arrive right in the city center.

By Air:

If you're set on flying, the flight time might be short, but the overall duration, including airport procedures, doesn't offer a clear time saving, and Milan's airports are not in the city center.

Road Trip:

Driving or taking a bus both take around 6 hours, and that might not be too pleasant for your butt and back, unless you plan an overnight stop in cities like the culturally rich Bologna or Parma, the food capital.

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Tips for Getting Around Italy

• When you are planning on how to get around Italy from Rome, you should also consider how to get around in cities. Walking, biking, or taking the subway are usually the best ways to explore.
• Certain areas within Italy's cities have Restricted Traffic Zones (ZTL), you can easily find them on the map app "Waze". Be sure to download the app and check the routes before you drive.
• If you intend to drive, make sure to understand Italian driving laws in advance to prevent any infractions and fines.
• Some cities, such as Rome and Milan, have more than one train station, so please confirm your exact departure point before boarding your train.

Have a Pleasant Italy Trip With Odynovo

Let Odynovo help you plan your Italian adventure, and figuring out how to get around Italy from Rome becomes simple. Whatever your preferences, we can personalize the best transportation options and itinerary for a relaxed and unforgettable journey.