Rome is chaos and beauty wrapped in layers of history and traffic. It’s ancient ruins sharing space with buzzing scooters and tourists who forgot how cobblestones work. That being the case, getting around Rome doesn’t have to be a headache even if you’re rolling deep with strollers, snack packs, and a family crew trying to soak up the Eternal City in just a few days. We’ve done it with kids in tow and time always running out. Here’s how to get around in Rome without spending the entire trip arguing on the sidewalk.
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1. Walking: Your Best Bet (And Your Most Beautiful One)
Rome wasn’t built for cars — it was built for sandals. And while those cobblestones might be brutal on cheap flip-flops, they’re a dream if you want to experience the city up close.
From the Spanish Steps to the Pantheon to a quick gelato run near Piazza Navona, the best way to get around is on foot. When we followed this strategy during our 4-day family itinerary, we saw more, argued less, and stumbled into some of our favorite moments — like finding a quiet piazza with zero crowds and killer cappuccino.
Family tip: Bring solid walking shoes for everyone (yes, even your teenager who swears Vans are “fine”). And plan for pit stops — Rome is full of small parks, fountains, and cafes where you can rest, refuel, and reset.
2. Rome’s Public Transport: Not Perfect, But Totally Doable
Rome’s public transportation is like a Roman espresso: small, intense, and sometimes slightly confusing. But when you learn how to use it, it becomes your secret weapon, especially with tired legs or long distances.
Metro
There are only three metro lines (A, B, and C), but they’ll get you to major spots like the Vatican (Cipro or Ottaviano station), the Colosseum (Colosseo), and Termini station — the city’s main hub.
Bus and Tram
Rome’s buses are a mixed bag great coverage but unpredictable timing. Still, they’re essential when you’re heading somewhere a metro won’t take you (like Trastevere or the Appian Way). Trams are smoother and less crowded, and kids might actually enjoy the ride.
Ticket tip: Buy a 24-, 48-, or 72-hour Roma pass for unlimited rides. It’s worth it, especially with a family. Tickets are valid across all transit modes (bus, tram, metro) and can be bought at metro stations, newsstands, or tobacco shops.
3. Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Use Sparingly, Use Smartly
Taxis in Rome are white, metered, and… hit or miss. Use official taxi stands or an app like FreeNow or IT Taxi to call one don’t flag them on the street. Uber exists, but it’s mostly high-end options (no UberX here), so expect to pay more.
Family reality: Sometimes, you just need a car maybe it’s raining, maybe it’s nap time, or maybe the thought of dragging everyone back to the hotel on two transfers is just too much. No shame. Use a taxi and keep your sanity.
4. E-Scooters and Bikes: Not for Little Kids, but Cool for Teens
E-scooters and shared bikes are everywhere but honestly they’re not the safest for small kids. If you’ve got teens who can handle traffic and know not to Snapchat while moving, these can be a fun, fast way to cruise a bit farther.
Important: Helmets aren’t mandatory but are always smart. Rome traffic doesn’t care that you’re on vacation.
5. Hop-On, Hop-Off Buses: Touristy? Sure. Convenient? Absolutely.
If you’re short on time or energy, hop-on-hop-off buses are a solid option. They hit the major sights and let you skip the hassle of metro maps or multiple bus changes.
Bonus for families: Many have audio guides that are way more engaging for kids than hearing you try to explain the history of the Roman Forum for the tenth time.
6. Pro Tips for Getting Around Rome with Kids (From Someone Who’s Been There)
- Start early. Beat the crowds and the heat. Rome wakes up slowly — use that to your advantage.
- Stay central (or close enough). If your hotel or Airbnb is walkable to major attractions, you’ll save time, stress, and possibly your marriage.
- Snacks save lives. Always have snacks and water. Rome has plenty of free water fountains (called nasoni) with cold, clean water.
- Pack patience. Things don’t always run on time here — but that’s part of the charm, right?
Enjoy Exploring Rome With Your Family
Rome doesn’t bend for tourists and that’s what makes it beautiful. It’s gritty and glorious and full of life. If you’re willing to go with the flow (and pack good shoes), getting around becomes part of the adventure. Walk when you can. Ride when you must. And take time to look around because the real magic of Rome isn’t just in what you see, it’s in how you move through it. If you want to have the best possible time visiting Rome, be sure to check out our comprehensive planning guide as well as our tips on how to visit on a budget.
