Getting Around Rome
Walking
Because it's an ancient city, built long before modern transportation came into existence, many of its most famous sites are within walking distance of each other. Two advantages immediately become apparent-- first, the cost savings and second, you can take the time to notice the smaller details of the city that no other means of travel allows.
Metro (Subway)
The Rome subway or Metro system is not as extensive as those of New York, Paris and London, operating only two lines, line A (orange) and line B (blue). Nevertheless, if your destination is a historical landmark, the Metro can get you there cheap. Don't count on being able to catch the Metro in the wee hours of the morning, though. Instead, make like Cinderella and head home early before the Metro stops running at 11:30 PM Sunday through Friday and at 12:30 AM on Saturday.
The orange line travels Southeast to Northwest with trains arriving in the stations approximately every six minutes most of the day and every three and half minutes during peak hours. The blue line travels South to Northeast with trains arriving in the stations approximately every six minutes most of the day and every five minutes during peak hours.
Bus
Rome traffic moves slowly so traveling by bus will not get you to your destination as quickly as the Metro but there are several bus options which might prove interesting to you. To get an overall feel for Rome, consider riding aboard one the double-decker tour buses that will take you to most of the major sites. Because your ticket is good for the entire day you can create your own itinerary, deciding when to get off and explore on foot and when to catch the next bus for your next destination.
Regular city buses are a popular means of travel so expect crowded conditions. A few buses are express buses and will save you a little time since they don't make intermittent stops. The buses usually stop running around midnight though a few do run all night. Schedules are posted but don't expect the buses to run on time.
Taxi
Taking a taxi in Rome is truly an expensive way to get from point A to point B. There are initial preset fares based upon the time of day in addition to the per kilometer fare which varies depending on whether you are traveling within or outside the urban area. Legitimate taxis are white with identificatoin on the door.
Rental Car
Driving in Rome is a precarious venture. Fellow drivers aren't known for exercising either caution or civility. And if you make it to your destination in one piece, you'll stil have the challenge of finding somewhere to park. However, if your vacation includes drives to the countryside, a rental car may be worth the hassle. The airport houses most of the well-known rental agencies.
