Dear travelers,
This was my first time at the Fiumicino airport, so I didn’t really know what to expect. It is a cute, modern airport that reminds me of Istanbul International Airport, but smaller. But first, let’s go over some basics. Rome has two major airports: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Fiumicino) and Ciampino Airport.
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Fiumicino):
- This is the primary and largest airport in Rome, located approximately 32 kilometers of the city center. It’s the busiest airport in Italy and a major hub for international and domestic flights.
- Ciampino Airport:
- Located about 12 kilometers of central Rome, Ciampino Airport is smaller than Fiumicino and primarily handles low-cost airlines and charter flights. It’s a popular choice for carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air.
Here’s a detailed review of the Rome Fiumicino airport experience:
Accessibility and Transport
Fiumicino Airport is well-connected to Rome’s city center and surrounding areas. The Leonardo Express train offers a fast and direct route to Roma Termini, the main railway station, with trains departing every 15 minutes. It’s the quickest option but also the most expensive, with tickets priced at €14 one-way. The train station is directly linked to the airport, and you can follow the signs once you arrive. Tickets can be purchased from red ticket machines at the station, which are common throughout Italy—a handy tip to remember.
For a more budget-friendly option, consider the T.A.M. bus, which costs €6 one-way or €11 round trip. You can also buy a flex ticket for an additional €1, which allows you to choose any departure time that suits you. The bus departs from platform 13 at Terminal 2 and takes about 40 minutes to reach Termini bus station. Taxis and car rentals are also easily available, with clear signage directing passengers to these services.
Facilities and Amenities
The airport has plenty of amenities for travelers. There are lots of shops, from high-end boutiques to duty-free stores, making it feel like a shopping mall. There are also a variety of places to eat, from quick snacks to fancy Italian meals, so there’s something for everyone’s taste. The prices are reasonable for an airport, not too expensive.
If you need a break, there are several lounges where you can relax away from the busy terminals. The Wi-Fi is usually reliable, and there are plenty of seats around the airport. Charging stations are available, but they can get busy at peak times. Fiumicino also has many information desks with staff who speak multiple languages and are ready to help with any questions.
Check-in and Security
During peak travel periods, lines can become lengthy, so it’s advisable to arrive early. The airport has implemented modern security technology, making the process smooth and relatively quick.
The most interesting and newest feature at this airport is the new scanners. With these, you don’t need to take liquids or electronics out of your bag, and the 100 ml liquid rule no longer applies. However, it’s important to note that these relaxed rules apply only when you’re departing from Rome. The liquid and electronics rules will still apply at the airport of your initial departure.
Smoking Area
The main reason for writing this review is to highlight the smoking lounges at the airport. I know it’s a bad habit, but for those who smoke, this airport has smoking lounges after the security check. They are like “glass boxes” and can be found throughout the airport.
Whether you’re connecting to another flight or having an Italian adventure, Fiumicino is an excellent gateway to Rome and beyond. I hope this review helps you make the most of your trip.
Truly yours,
The Creation of Us