How to Get from Rome Fiumicino Airport to the City by Train
As an international student in Rome, you might guess that I’m at the airport quite regularly, at least four times a year. While I obviously haven’t travelled everywhere yet, Fiumicino Airport is so far my favourite place to land. From there, it’s just so simple to get to the city centre that I never have to stress or worry about it anymore. Because I’d love for you to have as stress-free a visit to Rome as possible, in this blog post I’ll explain how to get from Rome Fiumicino Airport to the city centre by train. It’s cheap, simple, and quick, and with this information, you can do it too.
Why take the train from Fiumicino Airport to Rome?
When I first used the train from Fiumicino Airport to Rome, I was expecting a little bit of chaos, confusing signs, and, in my case, a bit of stress. However, I quickly found out that getting to the centre of Rome by train can actually be a really smooth journey. Like I mentioned above, it is fast, reliable, and affordable. You do not have to deal with traffic, complicated transfers, or expensive taxi rides. Within 30 to 50 minutes, you can be standing in the centre of Rome, and it is a direct train ride, so there is no need to switch trains or anything. Compared to a taxi, which can cost anywhere between 50 and 100 euros, it is super cheap, with train tickets ranging from 8 to 14 euros depending on which train you take.
Leonardo Express vs FL1 regional train: which one should you take?
The most well-known option when taking the train from the airport is the Leonardo Express. This train runs every 15 minutes from 5:35 am to 11:53 pm and offers a non-stop service between Fiumicino Airport and Roma Termini, the main transport hub in the centre of Rome. With the Leonardo Express, you can get into Rome really quickly. Its biggest selling point is that it only takes 32 minutes to reach Termini Station, which is super convenient. Tickets for the Leonardo Express cost 14 euros, and on the official Trenitalia website, you can also find some benefits, like one child over 4 and under 12 years of age traveling for free with every paying adult.
The station at Fiumicino Airport
If you are more familiar with Rome or have a hotel or place to stay near one of the stations I will mention, I always recommend taking the FL1 regional train instead of the Leonardo Express. Unlike the Leonardo Express, the FL1 makes multiple stops, so while it takes a little bit longer, it reaches different parts of the city. Key stops include Roma Ostiense, Trastevere, Tuscolana, and Tiburtina. If you know which neighbourhood of Rome you are staying in, it is definitely worth checking if this train is more convenient for you. That way, you might avoid having to drag your suitcase onto the metro from Termini after arriving with the Leonardo Express. Yes, it takes a bit longer to reach the centre, around 40 to 50 minutes, but it is also cheaper, with prices ranging from 8 to 11 euros depending on the distance.
At this point, it is good to know that on both trains there is enough space to store your luggage. There is overhead space for smaller bags and also designated spots for bigger suitcases. What I also really like is that at every seat there are outlets where you can charge your phone or other devices. After a travel day, this is always something I really appreciate.
Where to find the train station at Fiumicino Airport
Finding the train station at Fiumicino Airport is honestly really easy, even if it is your first time there. The train station is located within the airport area, and once you have picked up your luggage and walked into the arrivals area, just follow the signs that say “Train” or “Stazione Treni.” They are clearly marked and pretty much everywhere, so you do not have to worry about getting lost. The station is connected to the airport terminals by a covered walkway, and it takes around 10 minutes to get there on foot. Maybe 15 if you are dragging around a giant suitcase and seriously questioning your packing decisions. Just keep walking straight and follow the flow of people. Chances are, a lot of them are heading to the trains too. Once you reach the station, you will find ticket machines, a few shops where you can grab food or drinks, and the platforms where both the Leonardo Express and FL1 trains depart.
How to buy train tickets
If you are familiar with me and my blog, you know I am a big fan of the Trenitalia app, and I always recommend people use it when buying tickets. It is just so easy, and you can buy them well in advance. You can pay with a credit card, PayPal, Google Pay, Satispay, Amazon Pay, or an online bank transfer. After payment, your ticket will be visible in the app and also sent to your email. Tickets validate automatically as soon as the train departs, so this is also something you do not have to worry about when using the app.
Of course, you can also buy tickets in person at the many ticket machines at the station. If you buy physical tickets, do not forget to validate your ticket twice. First, you scan the QR code on the ticket to pass through the turnstiles and enter the platform. After this, you will find small green boxes on the platform (see picture), where you can stamp your ticket.
What to expect when you arrive in Rome
If you take the Leonardo Express, you will arrive at Roma Termini station, the main transportation hub. From here, you can take buses, taxis, or of course, the metro towards your destination. Both metro A and metro B depart from Termini, so from here you can officially start your Rome adventure. If you are not familiar with public transportation in Rome, I wrote an extensive beginner’s guide that includes tickets and practical tips. If you already know where you need to be and it is convenient for you, I recommend taking the FL1 regional train instead. That way, you can bypass the craziness of Termini station, especially during tourist season.
Conclusion
With this blog post, I hope I could help you with your next trip to Rome. Taking the train from the airport is really easy, quick, and budget-friendly, and it is what I do every time I arrive in my favourite place to be. If you have any questions or doubts, feel free to leave a comment or send me an email. I am always happy to help.
