SPQR - Senātus Populusque Rōmānus ("The Senate and People of Rome")

Some Travel Tips

Arriving at Rome Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport Airport

Upon arrival, depending on the terminal, you may need to take a free light rail service to the baggage claim area from the boarding gate. In that case, just follow the sign and take the train. Don't worry, it won't actually leave the airport, although we were slightly worried we may have left our luggage at the airport.

Video on Youtube by @thisisuey

Travel to and from the airport

The Leonardo Express is a fast train service that can take you from the airport to Termini station. At 13 euros it is a bit expensive, but it gives you a peace of mind. Alternatively, if you are not in a hurry, look around more carefully outside the airport. There are coaches that can take you to Termini station at only 4 euros per passenger. You will also get to see some of the tourist spots in advance as the bus cruises through town.

You can catch either the Metro, other trains or buses at Termini station. Most buses in central Rome terminates or passes Termini station.

The coaches stop at the side of the Termini station. You can also catch them here when traveling back to the airport at the end of your stay.

Video on Youtube by @TheTourGuy

Remember to validate your ticket at the ticket gate!

Good area to live

This is a good area where our hotel was (slightly to the north-west of Termini station), with restaurants, embassies and residential blocks. There are also frequent bus links that can take you to Metro stations. I have walked back to my hotel late in the evening feeling quite safe (apart from the occasional drunk tourists, or should I say "other" drunk tourists..). Generally, you do feel quite safe walking in the city center and surrounding areas.

Roma Pass

I found the Roma pass to be extremely useful. At 30 euros (Update: Nov, 2013, the price is now 34 euros) it is not cheap, but it gives you free access to 2 sites and free travel, including metro and buses for 3 days. The Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum combined ticket and entrance fee to Castle Sant’Angelo adds up to 20 euros or more already. You will also be able to jump the queue via special access at the sites, you don't really want to spend your time in Rome queuing!

Vatican City
The Vatican museum did cost 20 euros as it was not included in the Roma pass. A OMNIA Vatican and Rome pass would have the Vatican museum included, but personally I did not feel the OMNIA Vatican pass would be good value for money. 

However, the Museum and the Sistine Chapel is a must see! Entrance to St. Peter's basilica is free. The St.Peter's square is also a good area to stroll around whilst enjoying the warm afternoon sun.

Video on Youtube by @UK GLOBETROTTER

*********

Do you use wifi in public places or travel abroad often? Do you worry about cyber security? Get added security with a reliable VPN.  Get 63% off your VPN cost today for less than £3/$5 a month.