Which Airport Is Better in Rome?

By Robert Palmer

When traveling to Rome, one of the first decisions you’ll have to make is which airport to fly into. Rome is served by two main airports: Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Ciampino-G.B.

Pastine International Airport (CIA). Both airports have their advantages and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs.

Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

Location: Fiumicino Airport is located approximately 30 kilometers southwest of central Rome. It is well-connected to the city by various transportation options such as trains, buses, taxis, and car rentals.

Facilities: FCO is the larger of the two airports and offers a wide range of facilities and amenities. It has numerous shops, restaurants, cafes, duty-free stores, and currency exchange services. The airport also provides free Wi-Fi access throughout its terminals.

Connectivity: Fiumicino Airport serves as a major hub for international flights and offers a greater number of direct flights from various destinations around the world. It has excellent connectivity with major airlines providing a wider choice of carriers and flight options.

Advantages of FCO:

  • Greater international connectivity
  • Larger airport with more facilities
  • Easier access to central Rome

Ciampino-G. Pastine International Airport (CIA)

Location: Ciampino Airport is situated approximately 15 kilometers southeast of central Rome. Although it’s further away from the city center compared to Fiumicino, it is still easily accessible via various transportation options like buses, taxis, and car rentals.

Facilities: CIA is smaller in size compared to FCO but still offers essential facilities such as shops, restaurants, cafes, and currency exchange services. However, the range of amenities may be more limited compared to Fiumicino Airport.

Connectivity: Ciampino Airport is primarily used by low-cost airlines and serves as a secondary airport for Rome. While it may have fewer direct international flights compared to FCO, it still offers connections to several European destinations at competitive prices.

Advantages of CIA:

  • Potentially lower airfares on low-cost carriers
  • Easier navigation due to smaller size
  • Less crowded compared to Fiumicino Airport

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Ciampino-G. Pastine International Airport (CIA) depends on your specific preferences and requirements.

If you prioritize international connectivity, a wide range of facilities, and easier access to central Rome, FCO would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for potentially lower airfares on low-cost carriers or prefer a smaller and less crowded airport, CIA may be the preferred option.

Ultimately, both airports serve their purpose well and offer convenient options for travelers visiting Rome. Regardless of which airport you choose, make sure to plan ahead and check for any specific flight options or transportation arrangements that suit your needs best.