Thank you, Walter.

There is aalso a pleasant self-service cafeteria at Rome TE, should you have to wait for a train.

Thank you for taking the time to provide this information.

Thanks Walter!

Would like to add another train option from Fiumicino aeroporto to Rome Tiburtina. This is the local FM1 train and makes stops in Rome Trastevere, Rome Ostiense,Rome Tiburtina. The cost is 5E and trains depart about every 10 minutes.

If you are needing to train to Civitavecchia for a cruise departure on arrival at the airport, take this train to Trastevere and change there to go on to Civitavecchia. Total cost will be about 10E.

Also, if you are catching a train upon arrival to Venice from Tiburtina (some overnight trains depart from Tiburtina), this will be easier than the Leonardo Express.

Or, just book a shuttle. Much faster and about the same cost. Try www.airportshuttle.it

This information is GREAT!

Thank you for taking the time to do this.

This information is great, but I guarantee someone will ask this in a question form very soon.

Bookmarking

bookmarking

Topping for Cindi plus I wanted to add this site http://tinyurl.com/pnevx

It has alot of train and ticket info plus a photo of the self-service ticket machines.
Regards, Walter

MISSING YOUR ES OR ICP TRAIN

I just wanted to add this informative GAC post on the new rules and what to do if this happens.

Especially if you buy your tickets online and have problems with late arriving planes, Customs, lost luggage, etc.

http://tinyurl.com/o3hat
Regards, Walter

I would advise everyone NOT to click the above link "tinyurl". It will take you to about 64 web pages back to back uncontrollably. And the more you try to get rid of them, the worse it gets.

I made this mistake and had to unplug my computer. I'm now doing a virus scan and spyware scan.

I opened the TinyURL links that ParadiseLost posted, and had no problem with them. They just link to the SlowTrav.com site, which has lots of useful travel information and no errant popups, so far as I can see.

TTT

And thank you, Walter, for taking the time to write such a detailed and helpful report. May all your flights and train trips be fast and free of aggravation !!!

platzman; You were 100% correct in posting that 'heads-up'.
But I think the problem was at your end.

That tinyurl just takes me to a single GAC post on slowtrav.com.

Here's the actual URL

http://slowtalk.com/groupee/forums/a/tpc/f/862600685/m/6321047871?r=6321047871

Regards, Walter

I just want to send a big THANK YOU to Walter for these very thorough directions. I printed them out before my trip and they helped me breeze through everything at both FCO and Termini this morning. (and I really did breeze - somehow I got through without any customs check or Passport Control and didn't realize it till after the fact; am not entirely certain how that happened) It really helped me feel more prepared to have such explicit directions about how to get to the Leonardo Express and how to find my platform at Termini. Grazie!

(I'm writing this from a little internet cafe in Florence!)

You're Welcome earthchick , glad the directions helped.
Have a Wonderful trip!
Regards, Walter
************************* I would like to also add this to the directions.

As of Oct '06 there is a 'fixed taxi rate' of 40e from the airport to Rome.

I'm fairly certain that the 'luggage surcharge' of 1.04e/per bag in the trunk is still charged though.

Also it wasn't mentioned in any of the articles but I wonder if there is an extra charge for Sundays, holidays and off-peak hours?

And make sure the taxi has the 'Comune di Roma' sign on the side of it because there will possibly be a few Fiumicino taxis in the queue and they can legally charge 60e for the trip.

Just a thought and maybe a heads-up but...Many of the taxidrivers were dishonest before this 'fixed rate' came about and I can't imagine that suddenly they now see the error of their ways and have turned over a new leaf .
Regards, Walter

What a great post. This needs to go back to the top.

You know what would be great is to have a forum targeting directions and information such as ParadiseLost's post.

dave

I think ParadiseLost needs his own forum here on Travel Talk, he is the best!

Great information. Thanks.

Woody

saving

daveesl - There are two such threads for Italy from several years ago. The first on is Helpful Information: Italy which got a bit long so a second one was started.
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=2&tid=34443340

The second one is Helpful Information: Italy 2 -
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=2&tid=34568596

For in depth information about ruins in Italy, just click on Walter's screen name above.

For in depth Italy train information, do a search for GAC.

THANK YOU WALTER!! Also thanks to the person that tt this posting so that I had the chance to read it. Great info!!
Just the info I have been wanting as it will be extremely helpful to me. I am checking on rate for Rome shuttle to my hotel as it certainly seems to be less of a hassle!

Walter: I rec'd a prompt reply from Rome Shuttle limo. and I had asked about rate from the airport to the Hilton Cavalieri for 2 people and their reply was 35e. Do you think this sounds right? I hope there is no confusion between our interpretation.
I cannot imagine why anyone would do otherwise if this is the full amount: as just getting to the hotel from termini ( I think might be 25 min. away) could be costly as well as timely.
Also I would very much appreciate your giving me an idea of what tips are involved?
Thank you so very much!
Your post has been a great help to so many.

Traveler2; 35e is the *total price* whether it's 1 or 4 persons.
And 5e more if the pick-up is between 2130-0600 according to the website.

Last Spring it was for 1-3 people but they raised it to 4 recently.

I would say Tip in the 5-10e range.

Myself I give the driver 10e, as a truckdriver I know what he has to deal with 'day in & day out' and too make matters even worst his load is 'us tourists' .
Regards, Walter

Walter, I hope you know how much I (and everyone) appreciates all of your effort and how very helpful your info is to all! You have made my trip so much easier. Was not looking forward to taking train and then still having to get to the hotel from termini.
Oh I forgot to ask: Rome Shuttle said I needed a cell phone, which I will not have. Did you have a cell phone?

Once again, THANK YOU

Walter - thanks! Getting from our apartment to the airport was my last loose thread and you answered all my questions. Shuttle for 4 it is!

I just saw this posted on another forum and thought I'd pass it along.

Starting December 10, the Leonardo Express will arrive and depart from the Termini station from a more convenient, location, platform 24. This platform is in the main area of the station and closer to taxis, subway and other services.

http://tinyurl.com/y4j2u8

bookmark

c

Thank you, Walter.

Byrd

for the rome shuttle limousine service do you pay the driver or do you have to pay with a card over the net?

I need this!

Thanks!

~Ahissa

thanks so much for the great information...

Love it.

Thanks very much Walter, and all who contributed to the thread.

bkm

[REWRITE WITH UPDATED INFO FROM OTHER POSTERS, ETC]

You will be arriving at Rome/Roma 'Leonardo di Vinci' Airport also known as 'Fiumicino Airport', the 'Airport Code' is FCO. http://www.adr.it/content.asp?L=3&IdMen=199    

 The Airport has 3 Terminals A, B and C.
I'm going to pass on 'Terminal A' because that is rarely used by we tourists, it's for Charter and some Domestic flights.

The majority of international flights arrive at 'Terminal C' (extra Schengen),

'Terminal B' is mostly for domestic flights and some international flights (Schengen).

  For all intent and purposes Terminal C and B are the same terminal, it is just one long rectangular building.

  These directions will be for taking the AIRPORT TRAIN to Rome's TERMINI Train Station and other options (esp check-out 'Limo Drivers' at the end).  

 The train is called the 'Leonardo Express', it's a direct train and its only stop is the Termini Train Station.
It takes 31min and costs 11e in 2007, this train is unaffected by any type of Rail or local transportation strikes.

 These directions will be from TERMINAL C but easy to follow from Terminal B or even Terminal A.

  From TERMINAL B after getting your luggage, clearing Customs and walking into the main terminal you could just turn right and walk to Terminal C.

  Or take the escalator or elevator outside on the sidewalk up 2 levels to the skybridge with moving walkways over to the Airport Train Station. The website below will show you what I mean.

  Ok so your plane lands at TERMINAL C either at the main terminal or its' Satellite Terminal. The Satellite Terminal is connected to the main terminal by an automated monorail that leaves every 2min (it's no big deal, it's the only way in or out just follow the herd ).

 Your 1st obstacle is PASSPORT CONTROL. I've usually gotten thru in 10-25min but once it was an hour. Of course if you hold an EU Passport it's a walkthru.
 
 Next stop is the LUGGAGE CAROUSEL and to make it more interesting there is often a few flights on the same one. So more people jamming together along the belt.
  
With a usually long crowded wait here and multiple flights on the same carousel it can get very confusing as to when your flight's baggage actually arrives on the carousel.
  So notice people while on your flight who are different that you will remember. For me it's usually the pretty women.   Look for them standing around your luggage carousel, so when they start grabbing their luggage you'll know your flight's luggage has arrived.  

 And when they have all left, it's time to start worrying.
But wait awhile longer and look around perhaps some clod took it off the carousel by mistake and didn't put it back on.   If it doesn't show-up walk to the far end of this hall (keep the carousels on your left) and make a lost luggage claim.  

 Also there is an ATM in this luggage area, I believe it's along the same wall as Customs and the Exit.

 Now head for the EXIT, just before the exit into the main Arrivals Hall you'll pass thru CUSTOMS which is just a walk-thru.
You'll then pass thru the Security Door enter into Terminal C's Arrivals Hall.

 The ARRIVALS HALL isn't very wide (~25m), to the right it ends in 50m and to the left it takes you to Terminal B. My point is everything you need is a 'stone's throw' away.  

 To the RIGHT 50m are 2 ATM (sometimes shutdown), a wc/bathroom usually closed and 'Luggage Storage'.

  To your LEFT in 20m is a Book/candy shop which I believe also sells Airport Train tickets.
  Then in another 20m is an ATM (use this one) and farther down as you enter Terminal B there is a w.c. that will be open .   There is also a cafe across from the book/candy shop.  

 In FRONT of you along the wall are 3 booths that provide SHUTTLE TRANSPORTATION and limo services.
'HOTEL RESERVATION' is the most popular one (http://www.hotelreservation.it) which provides a shuttle service into Rome (Info & booking
http://www.hotelreservation.it/shuttleservice.asp ).   But for 36e for 2 people that they charge you might want to consider a private limo.

  Also in FRONT of you is a small mob of people. Limo drivers holding their signs, friends and family awaiting someone's arrival and the illegal aka "Gypsy" taxi drivers. Their latest touch are ID badges either hung around their necks or clipped-on their lapel to *look* official. They will rip you off on the cost and their insurance might not cover you in the event of an accident.  

 Now 45deg to your LEFT and ~20m away is an escalator that will take you under the street and up to the Train Station.

 If you need an elevator go out the front door by the escalator and turn right, this elevator (press #2) will take you up to the skybridge with moving walkways over to the AIRPORT TRAIN STATION.

 Also right outside this door is the official TAXI QUEUE (White taxis with a 'Comune di Roma' sign on the door, 'Taxi' sign on roof and a meter on the dashboard).

Now as of Oct '06 there is an official 'Fixed Taxi Rate' of 40e from the Airport to Rome.

I don't know but I assume there is still the old 'Luggage Surcharge' of 1.04e for each bag placed in the trunk/boot. Also it wasn't mentioned in any of the articles I read but I wonder if there is still a fairly small surcharge for Sundays, holidays and off-peak hours?
And make sure the taxi has a 'Comune di Roma' sign on the doors because there might possibly be a local 'Fiumicino Taxi' in the queue and they can legally charge 60e for a Rome trip.

 Just a thought and maybe a heads-up? Many of the airport taxidrivers were dishonest before this 'fixed rate' came about and it's hard to imagine that suddenly they now see the error of their old ways and have turned over a new leaf. Also many taxi drivers are notorious switching large Euro bills for smaller ones. Say you hand the driver a 50e or 100e bill and seconds later he turns around with a 5e or 10e bill in his hand.   So make a point when handing them a large bill, say it just in passing 'Cinquanta' for 50 or 'Cento' for 100.     
  Ok to give you a better idea of the AIRPORT'S LAYOUT go to http://tinyurl.com/qclry OR
http://www.balenablu.it/store/default_images/mappa_aeroporto_fiumicino.gif  

The train station is directly across the street (100m) from Terminal C, it's that long purple building (Stazione Ferroviaia) in the website's diagram. It's connected to all the terminals by covered skybridges with moving walkways which are those yellow tubes on the map.

 Actually it's very easy to find because it is signposted thru-out the airport (STAZIONE ƒ RAILWAY STATION) plus one look outside from 'C' or 'B' and you can see the odd-shaped train station with a big 'ƒ' on it and those skybridges.

  Also keep this in mind; Arrivals is on the 'ground floor' or European floor '0'. Departures is on floor '1' and the skybridges are on floor '2'.
   
AIRPORT TRAIN STATION:
Ok ya got yourself over to the train station . It's a 3 Track station and very small, everything is an underhanded 'stone's throw' away.

  I will go into other options and info about this train station but the FASTEST and EASIEST way to get TICKETS to Termini is to just go over to the Newstand/Tabacchi (ya can't miss it, it's signposted GIORNALI) and buy them...no line, no hassle and no messing around with machines or queues. They also sell Rome metro/bus tickets.

 There are also 2 CC machines by the escalator exit into the station and 2 by track #1 that sell Airport-Termini tickets (Visa, MC, AE, DC, PayEasy).
 Next to the Newstand/Tabacchi there are
REGULAR TRAIN TICKET WINDOWS, where you can purchase train tickets for onward journeys like Rome Termini to Florence, Venice, etc.
They will also sell Airport-Termini tickets but you will very likely have to wait in a line/queue.

 But a BETTER OPTION if you need onward journey regular train tickets is to use 1 of the 4 self-service ticket vending machines (cash or CC) in front of these 'regular train ticket windows'. They have an English option and are *very easy* to use...Trust me, if I can navigate them so can you .  
 You can also get Airport-Termini tickets from these vending machines but more of a hassle compared to the other type of ticket machines I mentioned above.
   
So if you have time and want tickets for a later train journey or are leaving Rome as soon as you arrive at Termini you can get your tickets right there.
  If you don't have time you can get your tickets at Termini from vending machines also.

  And there is a 'Travel Agency' booth that also sells regular train tickets either for no or very little commission in this Airport Station.

 So if you are TRAVELING ONWARD FROM TERMINI by train figure this timeline if you are going to buy tickets. Give yourself 31min *after* your Airport-Termini train leaves plus a minimum of 10min at Termini to find your track and the correct car (esp if reservations are required).     

 You can find the regular train schedules at http://www.trenitalia.com/en/index.html (If you want the Airport-Termini timetables use 'Fiumicino Aeroporto' and 'Rome', Termini will be listed as 'ROMA TE').

  You can also buy your Eurostar (ES) and InterCity (IC) online on the above Trenitalia website up to 90 days in advance (registration required & some info below).

  Also in the Airport Train Station; ATM, a cafe, 2 rental car booths, police, and {hotel reservations, money exchange, ferry & train tickets} at the 'travel agency' booth.

The 'LEONARDO EXPRESS TRAIN' (Airport to Rome's Termini Train Station) leaves every 30 min, at :05 and :35 past the hour starting from 06:35 to 23:35.
  It will have TERMINI on the Departure Board, remember there are only 3 tracks and only 1 train goes to Termini.

 MAKE SURE YOU VALIDATE YOUR TICKET BEFORE BOARDING THE TRAIN! An unvalidated ticket is like having no ticket at all and the fine is ~50e.

  A 'Validation' is just a 'date and time' stamp and you get it by sticking your ticket in any of the 'Yellow Boxes' on the platforms.  But the trick is , if you have a large airline-sized ticket gotten from the train ticket windows or the regular train self service machines you just stick it in the middle of the long slot.

 But if you have the smaller (half the size of a CC bought from the Newstand or CC machines) you must put it the part of the slot with an artsy blue arrow =~=~^ pointing to where it goes on the left side.

 Go to the *far end* of the train, this will put you in the front cars and ahead of the herd when you arrive at Termini plus you will avoid most of the arriving and departing passengers who will be crowding each other at Termini's platform.
  Sit on the leftside of the train because after you cross the Tiber River you will catch fleeting glimpses of some ancient sites (city walls, aqueducts, city gates and even a pyramid.
And as you are slowing down and entering the outer train station area you will see a large round shell of a bldg in ruins (24m x 33m high) on the left. It is wrongly ID'ed as the 'Temple of Minerva Medica' but it was most likely a ~300AD dining pavilion of a very wealthy Roman's residence.  

  BOTTOMLINE: Just follow the signs in the Airport to the train station,
buy your ticket at the Newstand, validate it and hop-on .

 ARRIVAL AT TERMINI TRAIN STATION
  The main station area has 24 tracks and this train as of Dec '06 now arrives at Track 24 (it used to arrive at Tracks 26-29 which was a few hundred meters away from the main station).

  TERMINI TAXIS: Licensed legal taxi drivers will never solicit you either inside or outside the station, they will always be with their taxi. Those that do solicit are illegal Gypsy taxis who will overcharge you big-time.

  So you can either follow the Herd straight ahead to the Taxi Stand in front of Termini and wait in the queue/line.
[Make sure the meter is set on 1 rather than 2, I believe it's under 'Tariff', *many* posters seem to pay double for these Termini to central area hotels journeys from this front taxi queue.]

  Or just follow the Herd a short distance (under 50m) into the *Large Arcade* (2 floors of shops and restaurants) with *huge* exits to the outside at each end, then exit left onto Via Giovanni Giolitti.
 There is a taxi stand there and I have always just walked-up to the 1st taxi waiting.

 CATCHING AN ONWARD TRAIN UPON TERMINI ARRIVAL.   The wide corridor in front of the train platform will have TV monitors like in an airport but they will only show the trains departing in the next 20-30min or so.

  If your train is departing later than that go into that *Large Arcade* on the wall above you as you enter is the huge Arrivals Board.
But if you turn right and walk down a bit you will see the huge Departure Board.  
  Remember the Departure Board only lists the train's *Last Stop*.
So say if you are taking the 0930 Eurostar Train to Florence it might be listed as the '0930 ES Venezia', so on the way to Venice it will stop in Florence.

  So on the Board look for your Time 1st, then the type of train 2nd (ES, IC, IR etc) and finally the last stop's direction. And then listed to the right will be the Binario or Platform number.

USEFUL REGULAR TRAIN TICKET & MACHINE INFO: http://tinyurl.com/pnevx

MISSING YOUR ES OR ICP TRAIN REFUND OR CHANGE Especially if you buy your tickets online and have problems with late arriving planes, Customs, lost luggage, etc. http://tinyurl.com/o3hat OR
http://slowtalk.com/groupee/forums/a/tpc/f/862600685/m/6321047871?r=6321047871

STRIKES
  This website is in English with updated strike info and the easiest to use but always check both websites. www.seekitaly.com/news/from_roma.html Click-on the 'Strikes, Demonstrations etc in Italy' link on the left.   Italian transportation strike website (in Italian) www.infrastrutturetrasporti.it/ click-on 'Calendario Scioperi Nazionali'.

LIMO DRIVERS
Also consider do you really want to take the train into Rome? For 2 people it's 22e, if your hotel is walking distance from Termini or you are comfortable taking the bus or metro to your hotel it's a good deal.

But if you have to take a taxi from Termini figure ~10e or higher with 2 pieces of luggage and if you give the driver a 1e tip. So let's figure the train for 2 and an *honest* taxidriver it's 32e minimum.
The shuttle is 36e for 2 people and you might have to wait a bit at the airport plus drive around dropping off the others.  

  But a LIMO DRIVER waiting at Arrivals with a sign with your name on it and driving a new Mercedes for 35e for up to 4 people http://www.romeshuttlelimousine.com/Inglese_p.htm or http://www.limoservicerome.com for 45e up to 3.  
 I have used both companies and they are both good and there are others but the 1st one is the cheapest.

  LUGGAGE STORAGE (Deposito Bagagli)
Alongside Track 24 there is an signposted elevator that will take you downstairs to luggage storage.

  Be warned though the line esp in the morning can be long and slow moving, I'd say ~100 people lined-up ~0930 in May'06. A person's website mentioned waiting 2hrs in Oct'05. All left luggage is X-rayed.
 There are NO self-service luggage lockers in Italy since Sept'01.  

 Melissa (Nicolas Inn) mentioned this option on the Frommer's messageboard and I checked it out. There is a laundromat that provides luggage storage for 2e on the northside of Termini.   It's on Via Milazzo #20 just after the cross-street Via dei Mille. There is a yellow laundromat sign hanging over it easy to see from down the block and it's called 'Bolle Blu', in the window is a sign saying '2euro Deposit Baggages Open 0800-2200'.

  She also posted that this place also has luggage storage and another poster said that they had used it; "Navigator Internet Cafe on Via Marghera between Via Marsala and Via Magenta".

 In front of Track #20 there is another 'Hotel Reservation' booth.

  The Termini Train Station is *very safe* as far as any type of physical crime but always watch your bags and your wallet and brush-off strangers that approach you like in most of the World's train stations.

bookmarking -- thanks a million Walter!

bookmarking. Thank you!

Our kids are arriving a couple of hours earlier than us, so I can now hand them this information knowing that they have a step-by-step guide. After 19 hours of travelling they may need it. Thanks so much!

Can one buy a Roma Pass anywhere at the airport, either by the train station or somewhere along the path that Walter outlines? Thanks.

Bill

bookmarking

iamq- The Roma Pass is supposed to be available for purchase at tourist information points, ATAC ticket offices,in hotels, tobacconists, newstands, and museums.

bookmarking

Thanks for going to so much trouble, Walter! If I'd have had this in hand I might have tried the train into Rome, but just 35e to have someone from RomeShuttleLimo waiting for us was too easy to pass up. (You do have a phone number to call in case you can't find your driver and for whoever asked: driver is paid in cash when you reach your destination. The three of us each had one small and one 26" bag and there were no other fees.)

DH thought I was crazy to also tip 10e but he got us to our train in great time yet completely spoiled the others into thinking all Italians would drive like him. Um, not quite!

Thanks for all the detailed info.

We arrive (june) at 745am. There are 5 of us and we are considering doing car service instead of train. (In the past we have done car service in Rome) What is the traffic going into the city going to be like at that time (once we clear customs etc) I guess my question is, would it be easier / faster taking the train, considering that we are staying in P.N. area and would have to take a taxi from termini anyway.


TIA

Bravo, Walter - a fantastic post!

Bookmark

ditto, Thanks!

Thank you SO much! This is just what I needed!!

Adding my thanks to all the others for the time & effort you've spent making this experience so easy.
My family (4 adults, two children) has planned a trip to Italy in early Sept. We all arrive at FCO, but plan to transfer immediately to Florence by train. The couple w/ the two young children arrives at FCO two hours earlier than we do. Do you recommend that they spend the two hour interval at the airport, & if so, how can they amuse themselves? Or should they go directly to the termini, try to store their luggage & hang out there? Any advice is appreciated.

Hi Walter,

Have you heard when the Leonardo Express train tracks will be moved into the main Termini station, eliminating the 10 minute walk between the two? I had previously thought it happened last December, but we were in Rome in mid-June and didn't see a sign of any work being done. The LE tracks were still in the separate area.

thanks, bookmarking

Bookmarking.

You are a good man, Walter. Grazie mille!

Still relevant. Thanks!

ttt

Last December the Leonardo Express departed from the main hall of Termini.

Will need this info. soon. Bookmarking

A cheaper shuttle bus company
www.viator.com/tours/Rome/3523ROMHTLAPT/Rome-Fiumicino-Airport-Departure-Shuttle-Transfer
Regards, Walter

Thanks for updating!

thank you! thank you!

bookmarking. Thanks so much!!

bookmark

You are a gem Walter, Thank you!

Bookmarking

Thank you !
bookmarking

bookmark. great info. thanks

UPDATE: NEW TERMINAL FOR AMERICAN BASED AIRLINES

(Thanks to Ann1 for the info & tinyurl)
http://tinyurl.com/3twpjs

"Terminal 5 has been built for departing passengers of American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta, United Airlines and US Airways and has been designed with the aim to increase the capacity of Fiumicino airport intercontinental area. In the past years overcrowding at Terminal C has caused quite many problems to passengers. The new building is just at a short distance from the airport terminals, it extends over a total surface area of approximately 14,000 sqm and it is subdivided into three main areas: an area dedicated to profiling activities, a check-in area and a security/passport control area that also includes the gates to the shuttle bus service, which transports passengers to the West Satellite for boarding operations, covering a  short-distance journey of 800m only".
Regards, Walter

ttt

bookmarking

thank you for taking the time to write this invaluable info for us!

wanderfully - There have been other changes/remodeling to FCO since this post was last updated in 2008. Check the airport website for the latest info.
www.adr.it

Additionally, a shuttle bus has been added from the airport to Termini or Piazza Cavour (near the Vatican - behind Castel Sant'Angelo) for only 8€.
http://www.sitbusshuttle.it/

FYI - The train ticket information for changing tickets has changed also. Check Trenitalia's website for current rules.

Where has Paradise Lost been lately, anyone heard from him?

I've been wondering about him also, but he often goes months without posting. I think he's listed his e-mail on some of his posts.

Can anyone tell me if there is still the "long walk" to the Termini station when you arrive on the LE? It's been 5 years since we used the Express from FCO but I still remember it Thanks, Deborah

DeborahAnn, no, there is no longer the long walk. Someone above posted the newer information. The LE now arrives in the main hall at Termini.

At one point (2008)the platform was changed and wasn't a long trek at all. The website says it currently arrives at track 25. There is also a new shuttle bus from the airport to Termini or to Piazza Cavour which is by the Castel Sant'Angelo. http://www.sitbusshuttle.it/index.php?lang=en

thanks ky and tuscan, I did see the reference in this thread to the new shuttle bus but I was unsure about the long walk from the LE. I just remember somehow we ended up exiting and couldn't get back into the terminal for our ES train connection---I'd rather not do THAT again. Deborah

Scroll down to the track diagram. The long track closest to the via G. Giolitti side is track 24. The left side of the diagram would be the front of the train station. The lower right corner where there are a couple of short tracks showing are tracks 25-29. It's really not that far unless you are on the last car. The Leonardo departed track 24 last time I was in Rome.
http://www.grandistazioni.it/cms/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=b7374b08689fb110VgnVCM1000003f16f90aRCRD

Does anyone know if you can use a Eurail pass on this train or would I have to pay extra?
Many Thanks

thank you!

jmcdo - It used to be you could use the pass for the Leonardo if you have a 1st cl pass. I don't know if this is still the case and it counted as a day off of the pass so really was a waste of a day. Rail passes are rarely cost effective for Italy. They don't include the price of a seat reservation (around 10€ for most trains) which are mandatory on most trains in Italy. If you haven't bought your pass yet, you are probably better off buying point-to-point tickets in Italy, not from a reseller like Eurail/RailEurope. If you want to post your itinerary we can tell if you should get a pass or tickets.

I tried to do this myself.

3/13 Fiumicino > Roma Termini - 10 Euro
3/13 Roma T > Venice - 94 Euro
3/16 Venice > Florence - 56 Euro
3/20 Florence > Pixa - 16 Euro
3/20 Pisa > Rome - 53 Euro

By my estimate the point to point has a grand total of 229 Euro. The saver price is $229 USD adult (3) and $115 child (1).

We are purchasing 1st class because I want to make sure there is plenty of room on the train. The last time I toured Italy with my mother we ended up in different compartments on a fairly long trip because of overbooking in 2nd class. I don't want to risk it with my daughters. Are reservations easy to come by in mid-March?

Thanks for the help!

Where are you getting 10 euros for Fiumicino to Termini? Keith and I paid 11 euros each for our tickets on the LE in September.

Thin

Thin is right. The Leonardo is 11€. There is no 1st or 2nd class on the Leonardo and no seat reservations. I also think it might count as a day off of your pass so using it for travel from the airport to Rome and then Rome to Venice might count as 2 days. Before purchasing this pass,you need to call the people at BETS and find out.

You forgot to add in the cost of seat reservations (10€ or $13.50 per person per train<3> ride at current exchange rate). Your price for Florence/Pisa is wrong (should be 5.70€). The majority of trains on this route (Florence/Pisa) are R trains which don't allow/have seat reservations and most only have one class, not two. There are a few R trains on this route that offer 1st and 2nd cl (you sit wherever you can find a seat)for 8.60€ and 5.70€, but it would be silly to hang around waiting on one of those trains when the others are more frequent.

You also haven't factored in the family discount which is 20% off. While it can sell out, it will usually be available. I entered this Friday and checked several different trains and it was available on every train I checked. Your family of 4 can take the AV/ES train 1st cl from Rome to Venice for 272.60€ which includes seats. Venice/Florence family of four 1st cl 162.40€. Pisa/Rome family of four 1st cl 155.20. Florence/Pisa 34.40€ 1st cl or 22.80€ 2nd cl. Leonardo Express 44€.

P-to-P 1st cl tickets 668.60€ or $902.61 or (subtract $15.66 if you take the 2nd cl to Pisa for a total of $886.95)

Railpass - 3 adult super saver 1st cl $229, 1 child $115 plus seats 120€ or $162.
Cost to travel with passes $964.

All 2nd cl p-to-p with family discount $720.76.

There are other discounts available for advance purchase of tickets which could save you more, but Trenitalia usually won't accept American credit cards. As you can see, there is not advantage in getting a railpass.

>>>We are purchasing 1st class because I want to make sure there is plenty of room on the train. The last time I toured Italy with my mother we ended up in different compartments on a fairly long trip because of overbooking in 2nd class. I don't want to risk it with my daughters. Are reservations easy to come by in mid-March<<<

I don't know how long ago this was, but since all AV/ES/ICPlus/IC trains now have mandatory seat reservations, this should not be a problem. 2nd cl on AV or ES trains is fine and has more room than coach seats on an airplane.

FYI - To see the family discount on Trenitalia, choose your train, enter the number of adults/children and select class. This will make another fare choice show (Familia).

Wow! Thanks for the help. Do I understand correctly that if you purchase a point to point ticket, you do not have to purchase a separate seat reservation? I thought everyone had to buy a seat reservation. You are correct in that makes a huge difference.

When you said that Trenitalia did not accept American credit cards, does that mean I would have to pay for all of the point-to-point tickets in cash or do you just mean online? I am hesitant to carry that much cash around. I have had problems with my bank stopping my card when they realize I am out of the country (even after I call ahead of time with my travel dates).

Thank you

bookmarking

jmcdo - Make sure you qualify for the Familia discount.
http://www.trenitalia.com/cms/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=f6d9c46fe6db6210VgnVCM1000003f16f90aRCRD

P-to-P tickets purchased from Trenitalia online or in Italy, include your seats in the price. The prices you see on Trenitalia include seats. They used to state on their website that online purchases are discounted 5% and I believe that is still the case although one person reported their press release in Dec. about changes stated otherwise.

Since you are traveling in March, there is a special (48€)good through the end of March for the faster trains if the Familia rate is sold out. This is 2nd cl, but it should be fine for Rome/Venice just seat your party of four together. The adults would pay 48€ each and the child would pay 36.50€ (discount from regular price not special). You also didn't factor a child's discount in your price quotes above. Your child ticket would be 50% off (ages 4-12).
http://www.trenitalia.com/cms/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=46e09ec8d9105210VgnVCM1000003f16f90aRCRD

The ticket machines in the train stations will accept your credit cards although some machines will be marked cash only. You need to notify your credit card, before you travel, to flag your account for the dates/countries. Call back a few days later to see if they actually flagged the account as many times it doesn't seem to get processed. Here's a video that will walk you through using the ticket machines. The first part is the old machines found in smaller stations, but the second part is the new touchscreen found in the major stations.
http://www.webvisionitaly.com/search.php?ref_genre=8#

Also RinR has a walk-thru with close up pics (scroll down).
http://www.roninrome.com/%20transportation/buying-a-train-ticket

Be sure to validate your tickets for the Leonardo Express in the yellow machines track side. Your tickets with reserved seats don't require validation. You will also need to validate your Florence/Pisa when you get ready to use them.

we spent about an hour at Termini waiting for our train to Orvieto. [I'm a terror for getting to palces early, as my family will tell you].

there are lots of shops and cafes, ticket machines, loos [want some small change] and people. lots of them.

the only scam we saw was people offering to "help" us use the ticket machines. we just said a very brisk "non grazie" [already practised on the umbrella and flower sellers in Rome] and they went away.

but it would be worth keeping an eye on them if you had luggage with you.

we also saw a very sad woman praying to a lamp-post [I'm not kidding] on our way to the bus stop when we were on our way home.

It would be great if I can get some current information on the Leonardo Express. Is the train inside our outside the airline terminal? Is it easy to get to the train from baggage claim and customs? Is there some sign or landmark to look out for? Lastly, I have a 1st class pass, which allows me free use of the shuttle. I just post it as a day's use. I take it that's no issue for me because I'm going directly on by train to Venice. Can someone confirm this would not be two days use in 1 day. Also, I must get the pass validated before first use. Where is that done: 1. At the Leonardo Express or 2 Elsewhere at the airport?

After you leave baggage claim, you will see signs for exits, ground transport, and the train station—with a train symbol as well as words. Follow the signs. The instructions above are still correct. Very easy.

Yes, since you will use your pass for the Leonardo Express plus Venice on the same day, it is one day of use. If you were not continuing on to Venice, it would be better to purchase the Leonardo Express ticket and not waste a day of your pass.

The Leonardo Express is a regular (but small) train station. Personally I'm not sure if you just stamp it or will need to go to a ticket window for validation, but I can't imagine validation would take place anyplace else but at the train station.

Hi,

Which are the cheapest ways to get from FCO to cental Rome? I found this article http://smartlife01.blogspot.com/2010/10/train-connections-from-fiumicino-to.html which explains how to get in Rome with 2.9 Euro. Can anyone confirm that's correct?

We took the regional train to the Trastevere stop, then the 8 tram into central Rome (it goes as far as largo Argentina) That might be more convenient than the metro options, depending on where you are going.
I can't confirm the lower price quoted for taking the regional route in two segments. If you do opt for this, the trains run quite frequently, I believe every half hour.

The price of the train ticket from Fiumcino to Parco Leonardo (five minutes from the airport) is 1€. The price from Parco Leonardo to Rome is 2.30€. The FR1 does not go to the main Rome train station so you would still need to get to where you want to end up. This only works for the fist stop. If you enter any other stops the price is 8€

FR1 stops:
Fiumicino Aeroporto
Parco Leonardo
Fiera Di Roma
Ponte Galeria
Muratella
Magliana
Villa Bonelli
Roma Trastevere
Roma Ostiense
Roma Tuscolana
Roma Tiburtina

I just checked the reverse route to see if the prices were the same for Rome/Parco Leonardo/Fiumicino and they were. Trenitalia updated their fare structure mid-Dec so probably the 2.90€ was before that and the price now would be 3.30€ total.

KY Bourbon: so from FCO to Roma Trastevere is 8 Euro direct but only 3.3 Euro by changing trains. I notice on the Trenitalia web site it is the SAME train number.

I guess the problem is that you would have to get off and either buy, or if you bought, you would have to validate the ticket for the Parco Leonardo - Roma Trastevere portion - thus losing 15 minutes.

Also, if the train originates at FCO, I would guess you might not be able to find a seat if you get on at Parco Leonardo.

So if you have flown all night, etc. it might make sense to pay the extra euros to avoid the above mentioned hassles.

Do I have it right?

Thanks
Steve