Flights from Cairns to Rome

A Guide to Rome

Know Before You Go

• Save on transportation costs. Keep your budget in check by using local public transportation. If you're travelling with kids under the age of 10, they ride for free.
• Pack a reusable water bottle. Not only is it great for the environment, but you can fill up as you explore the city from one of the many fountains.
• Don't fall for the tourist scams. If someone offers you a free gift, firmly decline. It's a trick to distract you while you're pickpocketed.
• Keep small change on you. If you need to use the public restroom, you'll have to pay EUR 1. But if you run out of coins, head to the nearest McDonald's and use their toilets free of charge.
• Write down your hotel's address in Italian or save a Google Maps screenshot. It will help you get around the language barrier and avoid any confusion with the taxi driver.
• Plan your day around the siesta. Every day from 13:00 to 16:00 some shops and restaurants close down. If you're planning on going out for lunch, make sure they are open before you head out.

Getting Around Rome

• The cheapest way to get around Rome is with the city's public transportation system. You can purchase a 3, 7 or 30-day pass for unlimited access to the buses, metro and trams.
• If you're planning on exploring the city at night, take the bus. The city has a 24-hour service, making it easy to get around at any time of day.
• The trams are a great way to explore the city. Unlike the metro, you'll be above ground, making it easy to see more of Rome while in transit.
• Taxis aren't the most convenient way to get around. The traffic in Rome is often gridlocked, making it difficult to get to a destination if you are in a rush. If you need to grab a cab, make sure you give yourself enough buffer time.
• Only hire a car if you need one for a day trip. The traffic in the city is chaotic, and it can be a stressful experience for a first time visitor.

When is The Best Time to Visit Rome?

The best time to visit Rome depends on what you want to do.

The city's high season is from June to August. The weather is hot, and travellers flock to Rome for the summer holidays. You'll need to book your flights well in advance to lock in lower rates and be prepared for bigger crowds at the top attractions.

If you want cooler temperatures, plan your trip between April to May or September to October. You'll find more deals from hotels and tour operators during these months, but the lower prices still attract scores of tourists.

Rome's at it's quietest in its winter season. From November to February, the crowds thin out as the city experiences heavy rain and cold temperatures. But if you don't mind bundling up, you'll find cheap hotel rates, almost empty museums and a chance to experience a more authentic side of Rome.

Airports in Rome

Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) International Airport

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (also known as Fiumicino Airport) is one of the busiest airports in Europe. It served 41.7 million passengers in 2016 and is a focus city for many of the world's top airlines.

Getting to and from Fiumicino International Airport

The cheapest way to get from the airport to the city is with the local bus. Several routes service the airport, and it costs as little as EUR 6 for a roundtrip ticket.

Another option is to take the Leonardo Express Train. It leaves the airport every 30 minutes and costs EUR 14 per person.

If you don't want to use public transportation, you'll find the taxi rank outside of the arrivals terminal. A trip from the airport will set you back EUR 48 with your baggage included.

Ciampino International Airport

Ciampino International Airport is Rome's smaller airport located 12km from the city. It's mainly used by low-cost airlines and often has better prices for flights around Europe.

Getting to and from Ciampino International Airport

If you're travelling on a budget, take the airport's shuttle bus. A ticket costs EUR 4 to 6 per person, and it runs to the Termini station where you can transfer to the metro or hail a taxi.

The local Central bus is another affordable option. It runs to the Anagnina metro station and costs only EUR 1.50.

Metered taxis from the airport will cost EUR 35 one way. Make sure you're using a registered white cab that has an ID number and a meter to avoid getting ripped off.