Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport

Italy's premier air gateway — Leonardo da Vinci Airport, better known as Fiumicino — is not merely a transit point, but your first introduction to the grandeur of Rome. Named after the brilliant artist and inventor, this aviation hub has become a masterpiece of logistics and comfort in its own right, repeatedly recognised as the best in Europe. Here, modern architecture meets Italian hospitality, turning the wait for your flight into a pleasant part of your journey, whether it involves shopping in boutiques or tasting authentic pasta before departure.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Award-Winning Comfort. Fiumicino is the pride of Italy in the aviation sector. It became the first airport in the country to receive the prestigious 5-Star Skytrax rating and has been recognised as the best airport in Europe among large hubs for several consecutive years. Travellers highly appreciate its cleanliness, navigation, and service quality.

Security and Technology. The airport is renowned for its innovations. In 2024, it received the award for the "World's Best Airport Security Processing". Thanks to modern scanners (Smart Security) in many terminals, passengers do not even need to remove liquids and electronics from their hand luggage, significantly speeding up security checks.

Convenient City Connections. Getting to the centre of Rome from here is incredibly simple. The pride of the transport system is the Leonardo Express train, which delivers passengers directly to Termini Station in just 32 minutes without intermediate stops. Buses and taxis are also available.

A Taste of Italy Before Departure. The Duty Free and dining zone here is organised with special chic. The Aelia Duty Free concept offers a huge selection of "Made in Italy" goods, from fashionable clothing to gastronomic souvenirs. Meanwhile, local cafes and pizzerias allow you to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine without leaving the terminal.

• Official Website: www.adr.it/fiumicino
• Information Desk Phone: +39 06 65951 (24 hours)
• Address: Via dell' Aeroporto di Fiumicino, 320, 00054 Fiumicino RM, Italy
• Email: For most enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: The airport maintains an active presence on social media. You can find the latest news on their official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram under the name "Aeroporti di Roma".
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost by the airline, you must contact your carrier's baggage tracing service directly. If you have lost an item within the terminal, you should contact the Lost Property Office (Ufficio Oggetti Rinvenuti) by filling out the form on the airport's official website.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance, you can contact the general information desk phone or speak to staff at the information counters within the airport terminals.

Reaching Leonardo da Vinci – Fiumicino Airport from the centre of Rome, the capital of Italy, can be done in several ways suitable for any budget and preference. The main options include high-speed trains, budget buses, taxis, and rental cars. The distance from the city centre is approximately 30 km, so it is important to plan your route in advance to avoid missing your flight.

The fastest and most reliable method is the train. The Leonardo Express takes you non-stop from the main station, Termini, directly to the airport terminals in just 32 minutes. The ticket price is around 14 Euros. A more budget-friendly option is the regional FL1 train, which departs from other major Rome stations such as Tiburtina, Ostiense, and Trastevere, but does not stop at Termini Station. The journey on this train takes about 45-50 minutes, and the ticket is significantly cheaper, approximately 8 Euros.

The most economical option is shuttle buses from various companies (e.g., Terravision, SIT Bus Shuttle, TAM Bus). They operate from Termini Station and other points in the city centre. The journey takes from 50 to 70 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Ticket prices usually vary from 6 to 8 Euros, making the bus an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers. Unlike the other capital airport, Ciampino, the road to Fiumicino by bus may take longer due to traffic.

For maximum comfort, especially if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or with family, you can use a taxi. From the centre of Rome (within the Aurelian Walls) to Fiumicino Airport, there is a fixed fare of approximately 50 Euros. It is important to ensure you take an official white taxi with a licence. An alternative is a pre-booked private transfer (NCC), which offers a fixed price and a meet-and-greet service by the driver at a location convenient for you.

If you are travelling by car, the airport is easily accessible via the A91 Rome-Fiumicino motorway. The airport grounds offer numerous parking options — from short-term parking right by the terminals to more budget-friendly long-term car parks connected to the terminals by free shuttles. This is a convenient option for those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle.

Leonardo da Vinci – Fiumicino Airport (FCO), Rome's main air hub, features a modern and clear structure optimised for passenger convenience. Currently, two main passenger terminals operate at the airport: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The previously existing Terminals 2 and 5 have been integrated into these two large hubs, so all navigation comes down to following signs for T1 or T3.

Terminal 1 primarily serves domestic flights within Italy and flights within the Schengen Area. It is the base for the national carrier ITA Airways and its SkyTeam alliance partners, as well as other airlines flying to European countries. The departure area in T1 is equipped with boarding gates marked "A". The terminal is modern, with a large number of shops, cafes, and restaurants, allowing you to spend time comfortably while waiting for your flight.

Terminal 3 is the airport's main international hub and serves all flights to countries outside the Schengen Agreement (non-Schengen), including intercontinental flights. This is a larger and busier terminal, associated with gates marked "E". The departure and arrival areas here are split across several levels, and to access distant gates (E31-E44), an automated SkyBridge train is used, which quickly transports passengers to the required boarding pier.

Terminals 1 and 3 are physically connected, and you can move freely between them on foot both before and after passing security control. Navigation through the airport is intuitive thanks to numerous signs in Italian and English. The key reference point for a passenger is the gate number indicated on the boarding pass — by following the signs to the correct group of gates (A or E), you will easily find your way.

To complete all formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. For flights within the Schengen Area (from T1), allow at least 2 hours, and for international flights (from T3) — at least 3 hours. During peak seasons and holidays, check-in and security screening times may increase. To ensure your journey starts without unnecessary stress, always check your flight and terminal information on the airport website or airline app.

The history of the main airport of Rome, the Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, known as Fiumicino, is inextricably linked to the growth of Italy's popularity as a tourist destination. The decision to build it was made in the mid-20th century when it became obvious that the old Ciampino Airport could no longer cope with the growing passenger flow, especially in anticipation of the 1960 Summer Olympic Games. Although the airport accepted its first flights during the Olympics to relieve Ciampino, its official opening took place later — on 15 January 1961.

Since its opening, the airport has constantly expanded. Initially, it consisted of two runways, but by 1973 a third was built, along with a new hangar to service giant Boeing 747s, marking a new era in international travel. In subsequent decades, new terminals were built and modernised: in 1991 the domestic terminal (formerly Terminal A) opened, in 1995 the international one (Terminal B), and in 2000 a satellite terminal connected to the main building by the automated SkyBridge train.

Significant investments in modernisation continued into the 21st century. One of the major reconstructions was the opening in 2016 of the new departure area E for international flights, which added spacious gates, retail spaces, and relaxation zones. Fiumicino Airport has repeatedly received prestigious awards, including from Skytrax as the "Best Airport in Europe" in the category of hubs with a passenger flow of over 40 million people, confirming its commitment to high-quality service.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the airport is named after the great Italian genius Leonardo da Vinci, who studied the mechanics of flight as early as the 15th century and designed the ornithopter — a flying machine with flapping wings. Today, Fiumicino is not just the largest air hub of Italy, serving tens of millions of passengers a year, but also an important gateway to the Eternal City, continuing its history of development and innovation.

Leonardo da Vinci – Fiumicino Airport (FCO) offers passengers a full range of services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. This modern hub is thought out to the smallest detail, meeting the needs of both tourists and business travellers.

For those who wish to dedicate time to shopping or enjoying Italian cuisine, the airport presents a huge selection of shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Here you can find everything: from elite brands and "Made in Italy" goods in the Tax Free zone to cosy coffee shops with real espresso and restaurants offering dishes from various world cuisines. Regardless of your budget and tastes, you will easily find a suitable establishment.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for gadgets allow you to stay connected at all times. For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, waiting lounges and VIP lounges are available. In these, you can relax in peace, work, take a shower, and enjoy buffet services.

Bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points are located in the terminals, making it easy to resolve all financial matters. The health of passengers is looked after by 24-hour medical points and pharmacies, ready to provide first aid at any moment.

For travellers with children, special mother and child rooms (nurseries) with changing tables and everything necessary for baby care are provided. Passengers with reduced mobility are offered comprehensive assistance — from escorting through the airport to boarding the aircraft. It is recommended to book this service in advance through your airline.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, you can stay at hotels located directly on the airport grounds or in the immediate vicinity. Some of them are connected to the terminals by covered walkways. For business travellers, business centres and conference rooms are equipped where you can hold a meeting or work in a quiet environment.

Leonardo da Vinci – Fiumicino Airport (FCO) will delight even sophisticated gourmets with a variety of establishments for every taste and budget. Here you will find everything: from cosy coffee shops for a quick snack to elegant restaurants where you can enjoy a final Italian-style dinner before departure.

The majority of restaurants and cafes are concentrated in the departure zone (airside), after passing security control, especially in Terminals 1 and 3. In the general area before control (landside), there is also a selection, though it is more modest. For those who want a quick bite, numerous bars and cafes offering fresh pastries, panini, sandwiches, and, of course, famous Roman pizza by the slice (pizza al taglio) are perfect. If you have time, be sure to visit one of the full-service restaurants to enjoy classic pasta dishes.

Special attention should be paid to authentic Italian cuisine. Do not miss the chance to drink a cup of real espresso or cappuccino with a fresh cornetto for breakfast. For lunch or dinner, you can find establishments specialising in dishes from different regions of Italy. For connoisseurs of quality products and gastronomic souvenirs, a food hall operates, featuring the best local delicacies.

Most establishments offer options for passengers with special dietary needs. Finding vegetarian dishes is easy, and many menus also feature gluten-free options. It is recommended to study the menu in advance or ask the staff. The price range varies: from budget fast-food chains and coffee shops to mid-range and premium restaurants. Opening hours are adapted to flight schedules — many cafes open early in the morning and work until late at night.

Travelling through the main airport of Rome is an important part of your adventure in Italy. To ensure everything goes smoothly, use our tips for passengers departing from Leonardo da Vinci – Fiumicino Airport (FCO).

When to arrive at the airport? Fiumicino is a large and busy hub. We recommend arriving 3 hours before international flights and at least 2 hours before flights within the Schengen Area. During peak tourist season (summer, holidays), it is better to add another 30-40 minutes for potential queues.

Check-in and security control. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your phone. If you are travelling only with hand luggage, you can proceed directly to security screening. Be prepared for the standard procedure: you must place all electronic devices, liquids, and metal items in a separate tray. Being attentive at this stage will speed up the process for everyone.

Choosing a seat on the plane. Want to take beautiful photos of the Apennine Peninsula during takeoff or landing? Choose a window seat. If comfort and the ability to stand up freely are important to you, your choice is an aisle seat. Passengers in the front of the cabin usually disembark first, which is convenient for short connections.

What to take in hand luggage? Standard EU rules prohibit carrying liquids in containers larger than 100 ml (all must fit into one transparent 1-litre bag). Sharp objects and flammable substances are also prohibited. Be sure to take a portable charger (power bank), all necessary medicines, documents, and valuables into the cabin. A small snack and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after security, will also be useful.

Tips for passengers with connections. If you have a layover in Fiumicino, follow the signs for "Transiti / Connecting Flights". Carefully check the terminal and gate of your next flight on the information screens — they may change. If you are flying from a non-Schengen country to the Schengen area (or vice versa), you will have to pass passport control; allow extra time for this.

Customs control. When entering the EU from countries outside it, there are restrictions on importing certain goods (for example, tobacco and alcohol). If you have no goods to declare, feel free to go through the "green channel". If you are carrying something that is subject to declaration, head to the "red channel".

How to save time and money? Instead of an expensive taxi to the city, use the Leonardo Express train to Termini Station or more budget-friendly shuttle buses. A pre-booked parking space will cost less than paying on the spot. It is more economical to buy food and water in the city or bring them with you (empty bottle).

What to do if your flight is delayed? First of all, contact your airline's counter for information. According to EU regulations, for long delays, passengers are entitled to drinks, meals, and sometimes hotel accommodation. Fiumicino Airport offers many shops, cafes, and relaxation zones where you can spend time comfortably while waiting for departure.