Airport Transport Overview
Italy’s airport transport system is generally efficient but operates under strict regulations that can confuse new arrivals. Unlike in many other countries, ride-hailing apps like Uber do not function as a standard low-cost option, and "forgetting" to validate a train ticket can result in immediate fines of €50 or more.
This guide outlines the verified transport options for Italy's major international hubs as of early 2025/2026. Prices are listed in Euros (EUR) with approximate US Dollar conversions based on January 2026 rates.
Essential Rules for All Travelers
Before arriving, you must understand three critical administrative rules that apply nationwide.
- Taxi Regulations: Legally licensed taxis in Italy are always white. They must have a "TAXI" sign on the roof and a license number on the door. Do not accept rides from drivers inside the terminal offering "taxi service"—these are unauthorized drivers charging inflated rates.
- Uber vs. Apps: In Italy, Uber is not a low-cost option. It primarily connects you to "NCC" (limousine-style) drivers at premium prices (Uber Black). To book a standard white taxi via an app, you must use FreeNow or ItTaxi.
- Ticket Validation (Crucial):
- Paper Tickets: If you buy a physical regional train or bus ticket, you must insert it into the green or yellow validation machines at the station before boarding.
- Digital Tickets: As of late 2024, regional digital tickets purchased via the Trenitalia app often require you to tap a "Check-In" button in the app before your train departs. Failing to do this can lead to a fine, even if you paid for the ticket.
Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
Fiumicino is located about 30km southwest of Rome. It is well-connected by direct rail and bus lines.
Train Options
The train station is located inside the airport (follow signs for "Stazione Ferroviaria").
- Leonardo Express: A direct, non-stop train to Roma Termini (central station). It runs every 15 minutes.
Cost: €14 ($15 USD, Jan 2026).
Time: 32 minutes.
Note: Guaranteed even during strikes (replaced by bus if necessary). - FL1 Regional Line: A commuter train that stops at local stations like Trastevere, Ostiense, and Tiburtina. It does not go to Termini.
Cost: €8 ($8.50 USD, Jan 2026).
Time: ~27–48 minutes depending on the stop.
Taxi & Bus
- Official Taxi: There is a fixed flat rate (tariffa fissa) for rides between Fiumicino and anywhere within the "Aurelian Walls" (historic center).
Fixed Fare: €55 ($58 USD, Jan 2026).
Warning: Trips to areas outside the walls (like Tiburtina station) are metered and may cost more. - Shuttle Buses: Private companies (Terravision, SIT, T.A.M.) operate buses from the arrivals curb to Roma Termini.
Cost: €6–€8 ($6.50–$8.50 USD).
Time: 50–60 minutes (highly dependent on traffic).
Milan Airports (MXP, LIN, BGY)
Milan is served by three different airports. Your transport method depends entirely on which one you fly into.
Milan Malpensa (MXP)
The main international hub, located ~50km from the city.
- Malpensa Express (Train): Connects Terminal 1 & 2 to Milano Centrale or Milano Cadorna.
Cost: €15 ($16 USD, Jan 2026). Return tickets bought online are often discounted to €25.
Time: ~50 minutes to Centrale; ~37 minutes to Cadorna. - Bus: Shuttle buses run frequently to Milano Centrale.
Cost: ~€10 ($10.50 USD). - Taxi: Fixed fare from Malpensa to any address in Milan city center.
Fixed Fare: ~€110 ($116 USD, Jan 2026).
Milan Linate (LIN)
The city airport, located just 7km from the center. It is now the most convenient option due to the new metro line.
- M4 Metro (Blue Line): Connects the airport directly to San Babila (city center) in 12 minutes.
Cost: €2.20 ($2.30 USD) – standard urban ticket (Mi1-Mi3 zones).
Payment: You can tap a contactless credit card directly at the turnstile.
Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY)
Often labeled as "Milan Bergamo" by budget airlines, but located 45km away in Bergamo.
- Shuttle Bus: The most direct way to Milano Centrale. Companies include Terravision, Orio Shuttle, and Autostradale.
Cost: €10–€12 ($10.50–$12.50 USD).
Time: 50–60 minutes. - Train: Requires taking a local bus to Bergamo train station first, then a train to Milan. This is generally slower and less convenient than the direct shuttle bus.
Venice Marco Polo (VCE)
Venice transport is unique because the historic center is car-free. You must decide if you want to arrive by land (Piazzale Roma) or by water.
Land Transport (To Piazzale Roma)
Piazzale Roma is the final point vehicles can reach. From there, you must walk or take a water bus (Vaporetto) to your hotel.
- ATVO Express Bus: A direct bus with luggage storage underneath.
Cost: €10 ($10.50 USD, Jan 2026).
Time: 20 minutes. - Land Taxi: A standard white car taxi to Piazzale Roma.
Fixed Fare: €40 ($42 USD, Jan 2026).
Water Transport
- Alilaguna (Water Bus): A public boat service connecting the airport to St. Mark’s Square and other stops.
Cost: €15 ($16 USD).
Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes (scenic but slow). - Water Taxi: Private speedboat direct to your hotel’s nearest dock.
Cost: €120+ ($127+ USD). Highly recommended to book in advance.
Naples Capodichino (NAP)
Naples airport is very close to the city center but currently lacks a metro connection (Line 1 extension is under construction).
- Alibus (Shuttle): Connects the airport to Garibaldi (Central Station) and Molo Beverello (Port).
Cost: €5 ($5.30 USD).
Payment: Buy on board or at the machine. - Taxi (Predetermined Rate): Naples taxis have a "Tariffa Predeterminata" (fixed rate) for key destinations, which includes luggage supplements. You must ask the driver for this rate before the ride starts and check the official rate card inside the taxi.
To Central Station: ~€18–€20 ($19–$21 USD).
To Molo Beverello (Port): ~€21–€24 ($22–$25 USD).
To Sorrento: ~€110 ($116 USD).
Summary of Useful Apps
To navigate Italian transport smoothly in 2026, download these apps:
- Trenitalia: For checking train schedules and buying tickets (remember to "Check-in" digital regional tickets).
- FreeNow / ItTaxi: The best apps for booking standard white taxis in major cities.
- CityMapper / Google Maps: Reliable for public transit routes in Rome and Milan.