Rome, the eternal city, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient history, impressive architecture, and vibrant street life. One often overlooked aspect of Rome’s identity is its extensive train network anchored by the city’s train stations. These pivotal structures facilitate millions of journeys each year, bringing people from the city center to its outskirts, other Italian cities, and beyond. If you’re planning to explore Rome and its surroundings, the city’s train stations will inevitably form a part of your journey. For those arriving by plane, here is a helpful guide that will assist you in getting from Rome Airport to the city center.
Roma Termini
The heart of the train system in Rome is undeniably Roma Termini. Roma Termini is not only the largest railway station in Rome, but in all of Italy as well. It is named after the district of the same name, denoting its location near to the Baths of Diocletian, or ‘Terme di Diocleziano’ in Italian. The station welcomes over 150 million passengers each year, as they arrive and depart from one of the station’s 29 platforms. The station is home to both national and international trains, including the high-speed services of Trenitalia and ItaliaRail. From this comprehensive transit point, you can catch a train to cities like Florence, Naples, Milan, and even hop onto the Eurostar for a trip to France, Spain, or Germany.
If you plan a journey from Roma Termini, it’s a piece of advisable wisdom to be at the station at least half an hour before your train’s departure time. This allows you enough time to locate your platform, get settled, and avoid the last-minute rush; a common sight at this bustling station. If you’re intending to catch the Leonardo Express, it would be wise to allocate even more time given its popularity, particularly during peak travel periods.
Tickets for nearly all destinations are available for purchase at the several manned ticket offices as well as self-service machines at Roma Termini. Please note, failure to validate your ticket before travel can result in a fine.
Roma Tiburtina
Roma Tiburtina, although less well known, is the second major railway station in Rome. Architecturally, Roma Tiburtina contrasts sharply with Roma Termini. While the latter reflects the grandeur of the 1950s, the former is a modern structure of glass and steel, completed in 2011. It is closely linked to the local metropolitan system, making it a pivotal point for commuters. Many high-speed trains bypass Termini for the less crowded and more modern facilities at Tiburtina.
The allure of Rome Tiburtina doesn’t just stop at its railway services. It also hosts a metro station, a bus terminal, and even provisions for car and bicycle parking. A shopping mall, complete with restaurants and a hotel, brings all the amenities within its premises, making travel more than just a journey to and from a destination.
With its location slightly outside of the bustling city center, getting to Rome Tiburtina can be a fun adventure in itself. A preferred route is the metro, with Line B running directly to the station. If driving, the Tiburtina station is well-connected to Rome’s main roads including the Grande Raccordo Anulare, Rome’s ring road. There are also numerous bus routes that connect the station with different parts of the city.
If traveling from Fiumicino Airport (FCO), also known as Leonardo da Vinci International Airport to Rome Tiburtina, one can opt for the Leonardo Express, running every 15 minutes to Rome Termini, from where a metro on Line B can take you to Rome Tiburtina. Alternatively, there are direct shuttle bus services from the airport to the station.
Frequently Asked Questions: Navigating Rome’s Train Stations
How many train stations are there in Rome?
Rome is home to two major railway stations: Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina. However, there are also several smaller stations serving the suburban and regional lines.
Which train station should I go to in Rome?
This depends on your destination. Roma Termini is the most central and easier for tourist spots, whereas Roma Tiburtina is better for certain high-speed services and local trips.
What is the difference between Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina?
Roma Termini is the main station, located in the center, while Roma Tiburtina is the second-largest station, with more modern facilities and specific design for high-speed and commuter traffic.
Which Rome train station is most central?
Roma Termini is the railway station most central in Rome.
What is the large train station in Rome?
The largest train station in Rome is Roma Termini.
What is the difference between ItaliaRail and Trenitalia?
Trenitalia is a national train operator, providing array services, including regional and intercity services, and high-speed trains. ItaliaRail is an online platform that resells Trenitalia tickets with additional customer services..
What is the best company to buy train tickets in Italy?
Both Trenitalia and ItaliaRail are reputable companies to purchase train tickets in Italy, with ItaliaRail offering additional customer service.
Is Rome Termini the same as Rome Tiburtina?
No, Rome Termini and Rome Tiburtina are two separate railway stations in Rome. Rome Termini is the main railway station located in the city center, handling more passengers, making it the busiest station. On the other hand, Rome Tiburtina, while not as busy, has been developed as a hub for high-speed rail services.
How to get to Roma Tiburtina station?
There are several ways to reach Rome Tiburtina. One of the most convenient ways is to take Metro Line B, which goes directly to the station. You can also reach it by car as it is well-connected to Rome’s main roads or by numerous city bus routes.
How to get from FCO to Roma Tiburtina?
One way to go from Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Rome Tiburtina is by taking the Leonardo Express that takes you to Rome Termini. From Termini, you can board Metro Line B which goes straight to Rome Tiburtina. Another way is by using a direct shuttle bus service from the airport to the station.
