How To: Take the Bus in Rome, Italy

A Traveler's Guide to Navigating Rome by Bus: Tips for Saving Money and Seeing the City

City bus systems can be a financial lifesaver, offering a far more economical option compared to taxis for getting around the city. Beyond the savings, they provide a unique perspective on urban life, allowing you to experience the city in a different way. Sometimes it's fun to hop on a bus and see where it takes you, offering unexpected adventures and discoveries.

For many tourists, bus systems can seem intimidating at first. However, with a bit of guidance, they can quickly become an enjoyable and efficient way to explore the city. Here are some tips to help you make the most of public transportation in Rome and save money. The Roman bus system, like those in many cities around the world, has its own quirks and similarities, making it easier to navigate once you get familiar with it.

Types of Bus Passes
There are several different types of tickets or passes available, depending on how long you are planning to stay in Rome and how frequently you want to use the bus. Bus passes in Rome are good for both the bus and the metro!

• BIT: €1.50. This is one ticket that lasts for 100 minutes.
• BIG: €7.00. This is a day-use ticket that expires at midnight on the day of the tickets validation.
• BTI: €18.00. This ticket is good for an unlimited number of metro and bus rides for three days from the day of validation. (This ticket actually has the word tourist in the name – so it is especially made for you!)
• CIS: €24.00 This ticket can be used for 7 days from the date of validation for an unlimited number of bus and metro rides.
• Monthly pass: €35.00. This ticket lasts for one month of unlimited rides, and is ideal for long-stay visitors, including study-abroad students.

Note: Ticket prices are likely to increase for the Jubilee in 2025, so plan accordingly. 

Where Can You Buy the Ticket?

Bus passes can be purchased at machines located in metro stops, as well as at certain bus stops. You can also find them at tabacchi (tobacco shops that function like small convenience stores), authorized points of sale such as newsstands, and even some bars. For added convenience, tickets can be purchased using the TicketAppy app or through the B+ mobile ticketing service, allowing you to buy and validate tickets directly from your smartphone.

A new alternative to purchasing tickets is the tap&go system. This system is a convenient way to pay for public transportation in Rome without the need for a physical ticket. Using any contactless-enabled credit or debit card, you can simply tap on the reader at metro gates or on buses, and the fare will be deducted from your account. This system offers flexibility, allowing travelers to use buses, metro lines, and even some regional trains without purchasing a traditional ticket. Not only does it make accessing public transport easier, but it also includes a daily fare cap equivalent to a day pass, ensuring you get the best value if you use it multiple times in a single day. The tap&go system is perfect for those who prefer digital solutions and want a seamless, stress-free travel experience.

You cannot purchase bus tickets on the bus in Rome, but you can use the convenient tap&go system with a contactless credit or debit card. Planning ahead will save you time and ensure a smoother experience while using the city’s public transport.

Don’t forget to validate your ticket!

Validate your ticket by inserting it into the small yellow machine, typically located near the front or middle doors, once on board the bus. Remember, failure to validate your ticket can result in hefty fines, so make sure you validate as soon as you board. On the metro system, validation is usually done when you enter a gate to the platform. If you have a mobile ticket (such as through TicketAppy), validation is typically done via the app or by scanning a QR code using your smartphone. If you are found with an unvalidated ticket, you can be subject to hefty fines. 

Which Bus To Take?

The Roman transportation website is a great tool for figuring out which bus to take, especially if you plan ahead and have internet access. The website has an English version, which you can get to by clicking the small British flag in the top right-hand corner. At the bottom of the homepage is a simple tool to help you find the best bus route for your itinerary.

Although the website will display times, buses often run late or on their own schedule in Rome. It's a good idea to allow some buffer time in your plans to avoid missing appointments or connections due to delays.

You can also purchase a map showing all of the bus routes at any newsstand you see for just a couple of Euros. Although this information might seem overwhelming, public transportation is a great and economical way to get around the city.

Additionally, be aware of pickpockets, especially on crowded buses or metro trains. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings to avoid theft.

As we said earlier, it provides a whole new perspective of the city, and you get to interact with locals (or at least people watch)! Enjoy the ride!