Staying in Umbria and dreaming of Rome? You’re closer than you think. With the right planning, a day trip to Italy’s capital becomes an unforgettable cultural adventure. In this blog, we’ll show you the easiest ways to travel from Umbria to Rome by car, train, or bus, and share a walking route through the city’s most iconic sights.
To Rome by car
Driving to Rome from Umbria takes about 2.5 hours. A great place to park is Parcheggio Saba Roma, Piazza di Spagna, located right in the heart of the city, just a short walk from the stunning Villa Borghese. Thanks to two covered walkways with escalators and moving sidewalks, you’ll reach Piazza di Spagna and Via Veneto in no time. A full day of parking costs €22.
By Train
- Northern Umbria (near Tuscany): From Terontola-Cortona, you can park for free behind the station and take the train to Roma Tiburtina. To reach the city centre, change to Roma Termini or Roma San Pietro.
- Staying near Chiusi? The Intercity train will get you to Roma Termini in just 1 hour and 21 minutes.
- Central Umbria: Take the train from Foligno, where you can park for free at Piazzale della Pace (5 minutes from the station) or use the paid Parcheggio Quintana on Viale Mezzetti (€10 per day).
- From Orte: This option involves a slightly longer drive, but the train ride to Roma Termini takes less than an hour. Parking at Piazzale Fratelli Rosselli only costs €2 per day.
You can find all train information on trenitalia.com, or download their app, it is user-friendly and useful for checking in before boarding.
By Bus
- Flixbus: Takes 2 hours and 20 minutes from Perugia (Piazza Partigiani) to Roma Tiburtina.
- Sulga: Also departs from Piazza Partigiani in Perugia and gets you to Roma Tiburtina in 2.5 hours.
Walking Through Rome: A Self-Guided Tour
“Un giorno a Roma non basta” or “one day in Rome isn’t enough,” but it’s more than enough to fall in love with the Eternal City. Here’s a suggested walking route that takes you past many of Rome’s most iconic landmarks:
Start: Roma Termini
From the station, head toward the Colosseum. Along the way, you’ll pass the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, where Pope Francis was recently laid to rest, and San Pietro in Vincoli, home to Michelangelo’s famous statue of Moses.
Admire the Colosseum from the outside and continue along Via dei Fori Imperiali, lined with the ancient Imperial Forums, with a view of the Roman Forum as well.
Piazza Venezia and Vittoriano
Soon, the massive Vittoriano monument comes into view, also known as the “wedding cake” or “typewriter.” From its rooftop terrace, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Rome.
Trevi Fountain
Next stop: the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin over your right shoulder with your left hand, without looking back, to guarantee a return to Rome.
Pantheon and Coffee Break
Head to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.
Behind the Pantheon, at Piazza Eustachio 82, you’ll find what many call the best coffee in town at Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè. Just don’t forget to ask for “senza zucchero” if you don’t want sugar added automatically.
Piazza Navona to the Vatican
Make your way to Piazza Navona, where Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers sparkles at the centre. From there, stroll down Via dei Coronari, a charming street full of antique shops, and don’t miss a gelato from Gelateria del Teatro.
Cross the Ponte Sant’Angelo to reach Castel Sant’Angelo, then continue along Via della Conciliazione for a spectacular approach to St. Peter’s Basilica.
Final Stretch: Piazza del Popolo & Villa Borghese
Finish your walk along Via di Cola di Rienzo and cross the Tiber again to arrive at Piazza del Popolo, one of Rome’s grandest squares. Climb the stairs to Villa Borghese for a well-earned rest with sweeping views of the city.
From here, follow the signs to Piazza di Spagna, where you can hop on the metro back to the train station.
View this full walking route on Google Maps: Open Map
Extra Tips for a Focused Visit
Planning to visit the Vatican, the Colosseum, or other specific attractions? Head straight there to make the most of your time, and book tickets in advance:
With a little planning and the right route, Rome really is within reach, even for just a day. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, the eternal city never ceases to amaze.
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