Getting Around Rome: Metro, Bus, and Train Payment Options

Navigating Rome’s public transportation system is an essential part of experiencing the Eternal City. Whether you’re hopping on a tram, catching a bus, or descending into the metro, having the right ticket and knowing how to use it can make your stay stress-free and efficient. In this guide, we’ll explain the various ticketing options, the innovative “Tap & Go” system, and the extensive network that even extends to charming destinations like Ostia Antica.

Unified Ticketing System: Metro, Bus, and Tram

Rome’s public transportation system—run by ATAC—operates a unified ticketing system, meaning the same ticket is valid for buses, trams, metro lines, and some urban trains. Here are the key details:

• BIT (Biglietto Integrato a Tempo):
  • Price: €1.50
  • Valid for 100 minutes from the time of validation.
  • Allows unlimited bus and tram rides within the time limit and a single entrance to the metro or regional train network.
• Daily, 48-hour, and 72-hour passes:
  • 24-hour ticket: €7.00
  • 48-hour ticket: €12.50
  • 72-hour ticket: €18.00
  • Unlimited travel across buses, metro, trams, and urban trains during the selected time period.
• CIS (Weekly Pass): €24.00 for 7 consecutive days of unlimited travel.

Tap & Go: The Convenient Way to Pay

Rome’s “Tap & Go” system offers a seamless way to pay for metro rides using contactless credit or debit cards. Here’s how it works:

• Simply tap your card or smartphone at the metro entrance gates.
• There’s no need to purchase a physical ticket or validate it—your card functions as your ticket.
• Important: Each passenger must have their own card or device to use “Tap & Go.” Sharing is not allowed.

Currently, this system is available for metro, train turnstiles, and buses and trams.

Rome’s Metro System: Lines and Key Stops

Rome’s metro system consists of three main lines (A, B, and C) and a reliable suburban train network.

• Line A (Orange Line):
  • Key Stops: Ottaviano (near Vatican Museums), Spagna (Spanish Steps), Barberini (Trevi Fountain), and Termini (central train station).
• Line B (Blue Line):
  • Key Stops: Colosseo (Colosseum), Circo Massimo, and EUR Fermi (modern district).
• Line C (Green Line):
  • Key Stops: San Giovanni (interchange with Line A), Lodi, and Teano.
  • Still expanding, this line will eventually provide a direct connection to Piazza Venezia.

Urban and Regional Trains: An Overlooked Gem

Rome’s metropolitan train lines (FL lines) are often underutilized by tourists but can be a fantastic way to explore areas beyond the city centre:

• FL1: Connects Fiumicino Airport to Rome’s main stations, including Trastevere and Tiburtina.
• FL3: Connects to Monte Mario, La Storta, and Viterbo—a scenic day trip destination.
• FL5: Connects Rome to Civitavecchia, a port city often used by cruise travellers.

Reaching Historical Sites by Train

One of the most convenient features of Rome’s urban train network is that it extends to some of Lazio’s most famous historical sites:

• Ostia Antica: Accessible via the Roma-Lido train, which departs from Piramide station (Line B). This ancient Roman harbor city is like an open-air museum and can be reached with a regular metro ticket.
• Frascati: Famous for its wine and scenic views, Frascati is a great day trip destination, accessible via regional trains from Termini.

Tips for Using Public Transportation in Rome

1. Validate Your Ticket: If you’re using a paper ticket, remember to stamp it at the yellow machines before boarding buses or at the metro turnstiles.
2. Beware of Fines: Failing to have a valid ticket can result in hefty fines. Inspectors often check for tickets, especially on buses and trams.
3. Avoid Peak Hours: The metro can get very crowded during rush hours (8:00–9:30 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM). Early mornings or later evenings are quieter times to travel.

Exploring Beyond Rome from QuodLibet

QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast is ideally located near Ottaviano station (Line A), providing easy access to all of Rome’s metro lines and urban trains. Whether you’re heading to the Colosseum, Vatican City, or planning a day trip to Ostia Antica, our location makes your journeys seamless.

Additionally, a short walk to the nearby tram and bus stops means you can reach other iconic Roman neighborhoods like Trastevere or Testaccio with ease.