top of page
Traffic sign on the italian highway to Rome Capital of Italy and more city such as Florenc

rome airports

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Rome, Italy, serves as a vibrant hub of history, culture, and cuisine. Yet, the splendor of this ancient city is accessible to global visitors primarily through two significant portals - the airports. This article gives an overview of Rome's two main airports, Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino–G. B. Pastine (CIA).

Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

Fiumicino, Italy's largest airport, serves as the principal aviation gateway to the Eternal City. Named after Leonardo da Vinci, who conceptualized a flying machine long before the birth of modern aviation, this airport symbolizes a fascinating blend of historical homage and contemporary innovation.

Established in 1961, FCO hosts over 40 million passengers annually, making it one of the busiest airports in Europe. Spread across four terminals - T1, T2, T3, and T5 - Fiumicino is well-equipped to handle a variety of passenger needs. It hosts both international and domestic flights, with many major airlines operating from its runways.

Conveniently located about 35 kilometers from Rome's city center, Fiumicino provides various transportation options to the city, including the Leonardo Express train, buses, taxis, and car rental services.

Inside, passengers can enjoy a wide array of facilities. From duty-free shops selling designer brands to a diverse range of Italian and international eateries, Fiumicino aims to provide a seamless travel experience. Furthermore, the airport features amenities such as currency exchange booths, luggage storage options, and even a chapel.

Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport (CIA)

Despite being smaller and serving fewer passengers compared to FCO, Ciampino Airport plays an essential role in Rome's aviation framework. Named after Giovan Battista Pastine, an Italian airship pilot, this airport is closer to the city center - just 12 kilometers away - making it a popular choice among budget travelers and private aviation enthusiasts.

Ciampino began operations as a military airport in 1916, making it one of the oldest airports still in use. However, in recent years, it has become a hub for many low-cost carriers, charter flights, and general aviation.

The airport's proximity to Rome makes it an attractive alternative to Fiumicino, especially for tourists eager to minimize travel time. The airport is well-connected to the city by public transportation, including buses, taxis, and car hire services.

While Ciampino's amenities are fewer than Fiumicino's, travelers will find essential services such as food outlets, shops, and car rental desks. The airport's smaller size often means fewer crowds and shorter waiting times - a pleasant bonus for travelers.

In conclusion, both Fiumicino and Ciampino, each with its own strengths, serve as Rome's gateways. Whether you're drawn by the allure of the Colosseum, the Vatican's sacred beauty, or the tantalizing aroma of fresh pasta, rest assured knowing that your journey to Rome begins with a welcoming first stop at one of these well-equipped airports.

Fiumicino Aeroporto Station. Rome Metro map..jpg

rome fiumicino airport (fco)

Welcome to Rome’s largest and busiest airport, Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino (FCO). Located on the western coastline of the Italian peninsula, approximately 35 kilometers from the city center of Rome, Fiumicino serves as the primary hub for national carrier Alitalia and welcomes international travelers from all corners of the globe. If you're planning a trip to Rome, this guide to Fiumicino Airport will provide you with essential insights into its terminals, facilities, transportation, and nearby accommodations.

Terminals

Spread across a sprawling area, Fiumicino Airport features four terminals – T1, T2, T3, and T5. Terminal 1 serves domestic, Schengen area, and Alitalia Medium-Haul flights. Terminal 2 is smaller and dedicated primarily to charter and some low-cost airlines. Terminal 3, the largest, is used for domestic, Schengen, and non-Schengen flights, while Terminal 5 hosts direct flights to the United States and Israel by American carrier airlines.

Airport Facilities

Fiumicino Airport, living up to its international standards, offers a broad range of facilities designed to make the travel experience as comfortable as possible. From a diverse selection of eateries and cafes to high-end designer stores and duty-free shops, you can enjoy last-minute shopping or indulge in authentic Italian cuisine right at the airport.

The airport also includes practical services such as currency exchange booths, luggage wrapping, and a lost-and-found office for misplaced items. For those seeking spiritual solace, a chapel is available. Business travelers or anyone desiring a quiet space can access VIP lounges for a fee. For families, nursery facilities and dedicated play areas for children offer convenience and relaxation.

Transportation to and from Rome

Fiumicino's location, while slightly distant from Rome's city center, is well-connected by various transportation modes.

Train

The quickest way to reach central Rome is via the Leonardo Express train, offering direct service to Rome's Termini station in approximately 32 minutes. The FL1 regional train is another option, stopping at multiple stations in Rome.

Buses

Several bus companies operate routes from Fiumicino to Rome, including Terravision, SitBusShuttle, and TAM Bus, each offering services to Termini Station or other significant points in the city.

Taxis and Car Hire Services

Authorized taxi services provide fixed rates to destinations within Rome's city walls. Numerous car rental agencies, including major brands like Avis, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt, are available for those preferring to drive.

Shuttle Services

Many hotels provide shuttle services to and from the airport, often for a fee. It's best to inquire about these when booking your accommodation.

Left Luggage Facilities

The airport provides left luggage facilities where you can store your belongings for a fee. This service, located in the International Arrivals area of Terminal 3, operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ensuring flexibility for travelers.

Accommodations

In terms of accommodations, the area surrounding Fiumicino and Rome city offers a range of options from budget to luxury.

Budget

For the budget-conscious traveler, options like "Sleep and Fly Rome Airport" and "B&B Luana Inn Airport" offers comfortable rooms at a more affordable price point.

Mid-range

If you're seeking more amenities without breaking the bank, consider options like "Best Western Hotel Rome Airport" or "Golden Tulip Rome Airport."

Luxury

For travelers desiring a luxurious stay, the "Hilton Rome Airport" and "QC Terme Roma Spa and Resort" provide top-tier services, high-end dining options, and plush rooms.

Fiumicino Lounge

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.32.17.png

Tickets for Plaza Premium Lounge at Fiumicino Airport with Tiqets

FCO Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.39.25.png

Tickets for Leonardo Express: High Speed Train from Rome City Center to Fiumicino Airport with Tiqets

FCO Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.39.05.png

Rome: SIT Shuttle Bus Transfer To/From Fiumicino Airport and Rome with Tiqets

FCO Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.38.41.png

Fiumicino airport to Rome with Viator

FCO Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.39.25.png

Tickets for Leonardo Express: High Speed Train from Fiumicino Airport to Rome City Center with Tiqets

FCO Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.38.52.png

Civitavecchia transfer to Fiumicino Airport with Viator

FCO Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.39.59.png

Rome: One-Way Shuttle Bus Transfer from Rome Termini to Fiumicino Airport with Tiqets

fiumicino airport hotels

Hilton Rome Airport

Hilton Rome Airport

NOTE: SHORT WALK FROM TERMINAL BUILDING

Hilton Rome Airport has a restaurant, garden, a bar and shared lounge in Fiumicino. The property is around 17 miles from Roman Forum, 17 miles from Domus Aurea and 17 miles from The Colosseum. The property has a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests.

Certain rooms contain a kitchenette with a minibar, a microwave and a fridge. The rooms at the hotel have air conditioning and a desk.

Hilton Rome Airport offers 4-star accommodations with an indoor pool and sun terrace.

B&B Hotel Roma Fiumicino Aeroporto Fiera 2

B&B Hotel Roma Fiumicino Aeroporto Fiera 2

NOTE: Near airport and in front of a railway station Fiumicino Parco Leonardo.

Featuring 3-star accommodations, B&B Hotel Roma Fiumicino Aeroporto Fiera 2 is located in Fiumicino, 10 miles from EUR Magliana Metro Station and 11 miles from PalaLottomatica Arena. The property is around 11 miles from EUR Fermi Metro Station, 12 miles from Basilica San Paolo Metro Station and 12 miles from Roma Trastevere Train Station. Battistini Metro Station is 14 miles away and St. Peter's Basilica is 15 miles from the hotel.

Laurentina Metro Station is 12 miles from the hotel, while Biomedical Campus Rome is 13 miles from the property. The nearest airport is Fiumicino, 4.3 miles from B&B Hotel Roma Fiumicino Aeroporto Fiera 2, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

Air Rooms Rome Airport by HelloSky

Air Rooms Rome Airport by HelloSky

NOTE: SHORT WALK FROM TERMINAL BUILDING

Located in Fiumicino, Air Rooms Rome Airport by HelloSky has concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar.

This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service. The hotel provides a shared lounge.

The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms with a desk, a coffee machine, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bidet.

At Air Rooms Rome Airport by HelloSky all rooms include bed linen and towels.

Mercure Leonardo da Vinci Rome Airport

Mercure Leonardo da Vinci Rome Airport

NOTE: Hotel's shuttle service is available upon request at an extra cost of EUR 6 per person per way and only until 22:00. 

Located in Fiumicino and with Focene Beach reachable within 1.2 miles, Mercure Leonardo da Vinci Rome Airport has express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi throughout the property and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. Among the various facilities of this property are a fitness center, a garden and a bar. Private parking is available on site.

You can play tennis at this 4-star hotel.

Guests will find a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge and a business center at the property.

20221001_131158.jpg

rome ciampino airport (cia)

Despite being the lesser-known of Rome's two airports, Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport (CIA) is an important cog in the wheel of Rome's transportation system. Nestled closer to Rome's city center than its larger counterpart, Fiumicino, Ciampino has established itself as a convenient choice for travelers. This blog post aims to offer an extensive overview of Ciampino, its facilities, transportation options, and nearby accommodations.

Location and Terminal

Ciampino is situated just 12 kilometers southeast of central Rome, in the Lazio region of Italy. Unlike larger international airports, Ciampino operates from a single passenger terminal, making navigation for travelers an easier task. This airport has a rich history, beginning operations in 1916 as a military airport before evolving to accommodate commercial flights. Today, it's primarily used by budget airlines, charter operators, and private flights.

Airport Facilities

Though not as extensive as larger airports, Ciampino still boasts an array of essential facilities to ensure travelers' comfort.

Within the terminal, you can find a selection of retail stores and dining options, offering everything from quick bites to sit-down meals. An assortment of shops provide opportunities for last-minute gift shopping or picking up travel essentials.

For the convenience of passengers, Ciampino Airport also features amenities such as car rental agencies, currency exchange points, and an information desk. Unfortunately, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, there were no left luggage facilities at Ciampino Airport.

Transportation to and from Rome

Despite not having a direct train line to Rome's city center, there are various other transportation options available to passengers:

Bus

Several companies run bus services between Ciampino Airport and Rome city center, including Terravision and SitBusShuttle, which terminate at Termini Station, Rome's central transport hub. Additionally, ATRAL buses connect the airport with Ciampino's local train station, where trains to Termini Station are available.

Taxis and Car Hire Services

Authorized white taxis provide services from the airport to Rome with fixed rates for locations within the Aurelian Walls. Several car rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, and Europcar, have desks at the airport for travelers wishing to rent a vehicle.

Shared Shuttle Services

For a comfortable and cost-effective journey, shared shuttle services can be booked in advance and provide door-to-door transfer from the airport to your accommodation.

Accommodations

Whether you're a budget traveler or seeking luxury, the areas surrounding Ciampino and Rome city center offer a variety of accommodations:

Budget

Hotels such as "CiampinoHotel" and "Hotel Louis II" offer affordable stays with basic amenities and are conveniently located close to the airport.

Mid-range

For a comfortable balance between cost and comfort, consider "Hotel Villa Giulia" or "Hotel Palacavicchi." These establishments offer more amenities while still maintaining reasonable prices.

Luxury

If luxury is what you're after, "Hotel Victoria Terme" and "Villa Grazioli" provide lavish rooms, fine dining, and excellent services.

CIA Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.50.41.png

Bus From/To Ciampino Airport Bus and Rome Termini with Tiqets

CIA Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.50.49.png

 SIT Shuttle Bus To/From Ciampino Airport and City Center with Tiqets

CIA Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.50.58.png

Minivan Service: Rome ↔️ Fiumicino / Ciampino Airport with Viator

CIA Transfer

Screenshot 2024-04-15 at 17.50.34.png

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Ciampino Airport Transfer

Dear Exciting-Europe community,

Our goal with Exciting-Europe is to inspire and guide you in your travels. We wanted to disclose that we've included certain products and links to those products on this site; we will earn an affiliate commission for any purchases you make. In the spirit of full transparency, this includes but

is not limited to: Amazon.com; Viator.com; Tiqets.com; GetYorGuide.com; Booking.com; Trainline.com, etc.

You should know that these companies have not given us any free products, services, or anything else in exchange for mentioning them on the site. The only consideration is in the form of affiliate commissions.

When you click on a picture or a link and make a purchase, we receive a small commission from the company. This does not cost you additional money, and the price remains the same whether you use our link or not.

Thank you for your support and understanding. 

bottom of page