Madness! That’s how we sometimes view Roman traffic!
It’s not unknown for some of us to have taken a taxi just to cross the street! Even the most seasoned drivers will find the constant beeping and weaving in and out a good enough reason to not drive in Rome! Whilst the public transport network in Rome serves the city well, there are still times a taxi is just the handiest option. Read on to find out all you need to know about Roman taxis and getting a taxi in Rome…
Contents
- 1 How to grab a taxi in Rome
- 2 Get instant access to Free guide of Rome on your mobile
- 3 How to get a taxi in Rome
- 4 Cost of Taxis in Rome
- 5 How to pay a taxi driver in Rome
- 6 How to get a taxi at night
- 7 My tips to get a taxi in Rome
- 8 Should you prefer a taxi to a private drive?
- 9 Is Uber available in Rome
- 10 Taxi Rome FAQ
- 11 Conclusion
How to grab a taxi in Rome
Do you imagine yourself floating out of the Colosseum and gracefully hailing a taxi? Perhaps you see yourself laden down with stylish shopping bags after a day hitting the boutiques? You perch your sunglasses on your nose and flag down a taxi, then whizz off to your next activity. Well, here’s the lowdown on whether you can do that, or need to book a taxi in advance.
By getting to a taxi stand
The most popular way in Rome isn’t to flag down a taxi New York style. There are designated taxi ranks all over the city.
Here, you will find the official white city taxis queuing up. You just go to the first one in the queue. These taxis are all metered too, so you have peace of mind about the cost. Taxi ranks normally have an orange TAXI sign mounted near the taxi rank.
Where to find the official Rome Taxi Stands
There will be official taxis lined up at the majority of the major Piazzas in Rome. Also at Termini station
Here are some of the most popular Rome Taxi stand locations
- Largo Argentina
- Piazza Barberini
- Termini Station at the Piazza Cinquecento
- Piazza della Repubblica
- Piazza Venezia
How to recognise an official Rome City Taxi
These taxis will have “Comune di Roma” on their door. There will also be a taxi number, and a meter.Never take a taxi from a tout – you will be approached especially at Termini station, and even inside the airport arrivals hall. A firm no should suffice to get rid of any unwanted attention.
By flagging down taxis in Rome
Because of the popularity of the taxi ranks, hailing down a cab isn’t usually the way to get a taxi in Rome. Since the taxis only move when someone gets into them at the rank, it’s unlikely you’ll find an empty one anyway. If you do, you might find the driver is on his way to lunch or clocking off his shift. There’s a small chance they might take you, but usually if you are only going more or less in the same direction…
By calling a Taxi in Rome
You can call a taxi in Rome too, like in many other cities. There are plenty of firms operating in the area who will come straight to the door. For visitors this might be hard especially if your cell isn’t geared for roaming in Rome (no pun intended).
In these instances, it might be easier for you to get your accommodation provider or the restaurant to sort this out for you. Note, the meter starts when the taxi LEAVES to pick you up. For this reason, unless you are not wanting to walk in a particular area at night, use the taxi ranks instead.
By pre-booking a taxi
A way to avoid the phone problem (if you can find wifi) or language barrier is to use a Rome taxi app. There are several websites that allow you to perform this function. Check out My Taxi for example. There are tons of benefits to this app. It lets you follow the route so you can see if you are going off course. You can also link credit cards to it so that you don’t have to fumble with cash.
Get instant access to Free guide of Rome on your mobile
How to get a taxi in Rome
Getting a taxi at Rome airport
If you get a Rome airport taxi you are getting a good deal. Rome’s official airport taxis have fixed rates! So, don’t accept to pay anything more than indicated here! There’s a taxi rank right outside the arrivals.
Tip – for Fiumicino Airport, a Rome City taxi is €48. But if you take taxis at Rome airport who belong to the Fiumicino area, it will be €60! This is because Rome City taxis HAVE to use the fixed fare. The Fiumicino cabs can turn on the meter, which results in a higher charge. And they might try to charge you for luggage too! So, check out the licence to ensure you are getting into a Rome city taxi.
Rome airport Taxi Cost
- €30 from Ciampino Airport to the centre of Rome including luggage
- €48 from Fiumicino Airport to the centre of Rome including luggage
Note, these fixed prices only include the journey to inside the Aurelian Walls. Anywhere else will be metered.
To book your drive ahead, click here.
Getting a taxi from Rome to Airport
The above prices are also valid for the return journey! As long as you take an official taxi within the city walls, you can argue for the correct price.
Note, any journey beginning or ending outside the city walls will be charged by the meter. In addition, you will be requested to pay an additional fee for luggage.
Getting a taxi from and to Rome Termini Station
On exiting the main entrance at Termini Station you’ll find the taxi rank on Cinquecento Piazza. Avoid randomers who approach you on your way, trying to sell you a taxi. As usual, we only recommend getting the metered official Rome City taxis. The same applies for the return journey to the station – use your nearest taxi rank to help you get there.
Cost of Taxis in Rome
Nipping around in the centre of Rome shouldn’t cost you more than €10. But it is important to avoid getting ripped off. Check out our table which you can use as a guide to see if you are paying too much for your taxi in Rome.
To use this table you’ll need to know about the Tariffs. Here’s a definition of what the tariffs mean from the Rome Commune (scroll down past the Italian for English)
“The taximeter shifts from T1 to T2 when the initial fixed fare on the taximeter has clocked up a further € 11.00, from that time onwards the T2 fare is applied until a further € 13.00 have been clocked up; from then on the third fare, T3, is applied until the end of the journey”
| Tarif types | Price |
|---|---|
| Tarif 1 | €1.10 per kilometre |
| Tarif 2 | €1.30 per kilometre |
| Tarif 3 | €1.60 per kilometre |
| Base fare on metre during day | €3.25 |
| Base fare on metre after 10pm | €6.50 |
Around Rome taxi rates
For the best and up to date calculations, why not check out this Taxi Calculator. This is a great took that shows you the tarifs, distance and total price depending on the time of journey.
Simply stick in your destinations and starting points before you leave your hotel for a general idea of what you expect to pay.
We entered the Colosseum to Termini Station. Here are the results:
| YOUR TAXI COSTS | |
|---|---|
| Taxi fare daytime | approx € 8.30 |
| Taxi fare by night * | approx € 11.40 |
| * Every day between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am. | |
How to pay a taxi driver in Rome
Pay by cash
This is the way to pay to make it quick and easy. Drivers prefer cash, and your journey’s aren't likely to be hugely expensive. Keep some smaller notes and change.
Pay by Credit Card
The official Rome taxis are obliged to take credit/debit cards. However, some will make a fuss about doing so, as the majority prefer cash. Make sure you discuss it beforehand. Premium cards with higher transaction costs for merchants – such as American Express – are unlikely to be accepted.
Should you tip taxi drivers
Romans don’t tip taxi drivers. You can round up to the nearest Euro if paying cash if you wish to leave a small token of appreciation.
How to get a taxi at night
Taxis at night at the taxi ranks are your best bet. If you are alone and don’t fancy finding a rank, get your restaurant, bar, or club to call one for you. Remember, that the meter at night will start already at €6.50.
My tips to get a taxi in Rome
- Use the taxi calculator before you leave your hotel to get an estimated amount to pay
- Use the taxi ranks and only use official taxis
- Ignore any taki hawks or scouts at train stations, airports and bus terminals
How to avoid getting ripped off
- Get to know average taxi fare, and say no to negotiated flat rate
- Choose an Official Taxi Company in Rome
- Try to have small change
- Avoid a ride from taxis who approach you
- Learn the address where you’re going in Italian
- Be specific by indicating your destination
- Be clear you don’t want a sightseeing tour
- The taximeter begin when you enter the taxi (not before, not after)
- Ask for your receipt
What to do if you get robbed or scammed
- write down the taxi’s license plate number
- note which cab company you’ve used
- call Traffic Wardens
Should you prefer a taxi to a private drive?
In short, yes. Rome’s traffic is notorious! If you plan to drive in a rental car you’ll have a whole bunch of stress. This will include deciding where to park in Rome. You’ll worry about damage to the hire car (or have to take out expensive insurance).
If you’re in your own car and you are used to driving in European cities then you could drive. But that’s not without its stress. And, you’ll not be allowed to enjoy the vino in the evening! A Rome taxi service will hopefully help you enjoy the experience without worry.
But, if you like everything to be square and planned in advance, you can also opt for a private, professional and always on time driver to take you to your accommodation from the airport. Check prices here.
Is Uber available in Rome
Uber is available in Rome in some presence – Uber Black. This is a premium service that lets you order airport pickups in limos style cars uber style. It is definitely not a cost-saving exercise. This is because the Taxi unions are quite strong in Rome. For example, an Uber Black from the airport can be up to €90! Stick to the fixed fare deal offered by the Rome city taxis instead.
Taxi Rome FAQ
How much do taxis cost in Rome?
Around the centre, inside the walls, journeys shouldn’t cost more than €10-€15. Use the Taxi Calculator to work out the general estimated cost so you don’t get tricked!
Is there Uber in Rome?
Uber has a presence, but it is not the Uber we know and love. Stick to licenced Rome city taxis. Ubers in Rome will end up costing you a fortune!
Is Uber or taxi cheaper in Rome?
Uber Black is the only service for Uber in Rome. This is more of a premium service. Generally, licenced city taxis are cheaper.
How do you call a taxi in Italy?
There are several taxi companies you can call. The official Rome city council taxi number is +39 060609. Note, the meter will start from the minute the taxi is dispatched, so we recommend going to the taxi rank Rome instead.
How much for a taxi to Rome airports?
€30 from Ciampino to the centre of Rome including luggage €48 from Fiumicino to the centre of Rome including luggage (make sure you get in a Rome city taxi here, not a local Fiumicino taxi.
Where do I meet my driver?
If you have pre booked a collection at the airport the driver will meet you at the arrivals at the airport. Otherwise, meet a friendly driver at the taxi rank!
Conclusion
Taxis in Rome do have a bad reputation for ripping off unsuspecting tourists. With our handy guide we hope you’ll be able to have a great time in Rome. Start planning the rest of your trip now! We would love to hear how you get on.
FAQs
How much should it cost a taxi from FCO to Rome city center? ›
Option 3: Taxi from Fiumicino Airport
A taxi from Fiumicino Airport to the center of Rome will take approximately 40 minutes for the 34 km journey and will cost approximately €50. The price will be more expensive if you use the taxi in the evening or if you have a lot of suitcases to transport.
Each Rome airport taxi has a flat rate fee for the journey from Fiumicino airport to the city centre of Rome. You can expect to pay 48€ for the 50-minute trip.
Is it easy to catch a taxi in Rome? ›Getting a taxi's attention in Rome is a little easier than in a city like Manhattan. Rome has convenient taxi “ranks” or signs posted throughout the city. It's usually an orange sign that clearly says “TAXI.” Typically taxis will be lined up, especially if you're at a popular tourist destination or leaving the airport.
Do taxis in Rome only take cash? ›All Rome city taxis are required by law to have POS machines. This means you SHOULD be able to pay with a credit card.
Do you tip taxi drivers in Rome? ›In general, tipping taxi drivers in Rome is not necessary however, it is becoming more and more common to round up your bill, especially if it makes change easier. This is entirely discretional, not expected and usually only done if the driver was especially helpful or pleasant.
How to book taxi in Rome? ›Call a 'radiotaxi': caling a taxi on the phone is the mosy populat way to get a taxi in Rome. The taxi company operating the service is called Radio taxi and the official phone number is (06) 3570 . When you ring, the service is automated and the taxi company will send you the first taxi avaiable.
How do I get a taxi from Rome airport? ›From the airport
The real taxi drivers are located at the stand where there is a sign that reads “TAXI” located directly outside of the arrivals terminal. Taxis in Rome are white and have an emblem on the side door that reads “Comune di Roma.”
There are two trains to choose from, and tickets cost 8-14€. The most convenient option is taking a Fiumicino airport taxi. The flat rate to the centre of Rome is 48€ by taxi and the journey takes around 40 minutes.
What taxi app is used in Rome? ›MyTaxi. My advice for you is to download FreeNow. The app allows you to order a taxi without speaking in Italian, and it continuously tracks the route. Moreover, you can check the payment information and pay with a credit card, PayPal, or cash when you reach your destination.
How do you not get ripped off by a taxi in Rome? ›Every taxi driver has a taxi license number on the back of the cab as well as inside the back door. The little plaque as includes their name. So, if you are having trouble, write it down and ask for a receipt when you arrive at your destination.
What is the best taxi service in Rome? ›
These are some of the best taxi companies in the city: Radio Taxi: 06-3570. Pronto Taxi: 06-6645. Other companies: 06-5551, 06-4994, 06-4157.
Can you flag down a taxi in Rome? ›Rome taxi drivers prefer to use taxi stands. You might be able to flag a taxi down, but it is a rarer occurance than in most cities. Romans know they'll find a taxi stand in all the major piazze.
Is it better to have cash or card in Rome? ›So, don't be surprised if you find local vendors encouraging you to pay cash. But large hotels and restaurants will almost certainly accept credit cards. The takeaway here is this: it pays, literally, to have some cash on hand at all times. In fact, some vendors also offer discounts if you pay them in cash.
What is the best taxi app for Italy? ›FreeNow (formerly mytaxi): the best taxi app in Italy
So, if you do not want to take public transportation from the airport, you can use FreeNow and arrive by cab at one of the destinations covered by the service.
Don't bring any more cash with you than you'd normally carry with you in your own country on a daily basis. Bear in mind the increased pickpocketing risk for a tourist in Rome. When you get to the airport, get one or two hundred euros out of one of the ATMs in the baggage hall just in case (they don't charge fees).
Is it rude not to tip in Rome? ›Home » Food and drink » Do I need to tip in Rome? Tips are not expected in restaurants in Italy. Let us repeat that to let it sink in: tips are not expected in restaurants. However, a service charge is sometimes added, in a way that can often cause confusion for visitors.
Is it rude not to tip a taxi driver? ›You should tip your taxi driver at least 15 to 20% of your trip fare. If you think of giving anything less than 10%, you might as well leave without tipping at all. If your fare is less than $10, leave a tip of not less than a dollar. Something like a 50-cent tip is insulting and more of a hassle to come up with.
How much do you tip taxi driver in Rome? ›When it comes to tipping taxi drivers in Italy, it's pretty simple! Most locals simply round up, so if your fare comes to 18 euro, and you leave your taxi driver with 20 euro – that gesture would be very much appreciated! And what about if you want to tip your hotel porter? No problem!
Is it better to book a taxi in advance? ›Booking a taxi in advance is more affordable than taking one at the airport, and you will also know exactly what the journey will cost. There will be no surprises at all. You simply need to pay online when making the reservation.
How to pre order taxi in Rome? ›You can also call a Rome taxi company to pre book a day in advance. The largest company is 06 3570 (that is the entire phone number, but add +39 to the beginning if you are calling from an international phone). Be prepared to speak at least a little Italian when you call.
Do taxi drivers in Rome speak English? ›
Advantages of the taxi in Rome Volando
By writing or calling us, you will always find the answer in English! Also all our drivers speak English!
The best way to get from Rome Airport (FCO) to Rome is to train which takes 32 min and costs €7 - €35. Alternatively, you can bus, which costs €1 - €28 and takes 55 min.
How much is an uber from Rome airport to city center? ›| Transport | Travel time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 45 Min. | 50 € |
| Welcome Pickup | 45 Min. | 55 € |
| Uber | 45 Min. | 50‑100 € |
| Carsharing | 45 Min. | Individ. |
How much is a taxi from Rome Fiumicino Airport to the Vatican City? The average taxi fare from Fiumicino Airport to the Vatican City is around €55.
How to get from FCO to Vatican City? ›The best way to get from Rome Airport (FCO) to Vatican City is to train which takes 27 min and costs €7 - €9. Alternatively, you can bus, which costs €5 - €7 and takes 30 min.
What is the cheapest way to get to Rome airport? ›Leonardo Express Airport train
The cheapest public transport option between the airport and city centre of Rome is the Terravision Bus, one of four competing airport bus services that also terminate at Termini Station.
The distance between Trevi Fountain and Rome Airport (FCO) is 23 km. The road distance is 29.3 km.
How to get from Rome airport to city center? ›- By train. The Leonardo Express is the direct train that serves the route between the airport and the centre of the city of Rome every 30 minutes. ...
- By taxi cab. The distinctive white taxi cabs await outside the passenger stations, in order to serve the passengers. ...
- By Terravision Shuttle Bus. ...
- By blue regular-size buses.
You don't need to tip taxi drivers
If you're using a car service like Uber or Free Now (formerly myTaxi), tipping is also not required. But if any driver goes out of his or her way to assist you, it's OK to give a small tip.
Uber is usually a little bit cheaper than taking a traditional taxi. In most cases, Uber fares can be up to 40% cheaper than traditional taxi fares. In some cases, though, Uber fares can be almost double what they are for taxis, when you factor in extra costs. This is especially true when “surge pricing” is in effect.
What taxi app to use in Rome? ›
MyTaxi. My advice for you is to download FreeNow. The app allows you to order a taxi without speaking in Italian, and it continuously tracks the route. Moreover, you can check the payment information and pay with a credit card, PayPal, or cash when you reach your destination.
Does Uber work in Rome airport? ›Uber at Rome-Fiumicino is available, so you can enjoy a convenient and comfortable trip to wherever you need to go. Where is the Rome Airport pickup location? Uber pickup locations at airports are subject to change, so to find your pickup location, always check the Uber app after you request a ride.
How do I get from the airport to the Colosseum? ›From Fiumicino Airport
Once landed you can take the Trenitalia train which leaves every 15 minutes to arrive at the Tiburtina station in about 40 minutes and then take the underground line B and get off, in fact, at the Colosseum stop.
| Distance | 1 miles (2 km) |
|---|---|
| Average train ticket price | $1 (€1) |
| Train frequency | 62 a day |
| Direct train | Yes, there are 31 direct trains a day |
| Train companies | Regionale, Trenitalia Frecce or ItaloTreno |
Distance From Colosseum To Vatican & Best Ways to Get There
The Colosseum is 5.8 kilometers via the Via Corso to the Vatican (by car). And by foot it is slightly shorter – 4.2 kilometers (2.6 miles) to be precise. You can also get there by bus and metro.
Rome's Fiumicino airport (also known as Leonardo da Vinci airport) is 32 kilometers (around 20 miles) from central Rome. Trips into the city center take between half and one hour depending on the time of day and mode of transport.