Transportation defines how life moves in Rome. From narrow cobblestone streets to modern metro tunnels, every route tells a story. Whether people ride scooters, hop on buses or simply walk, movement here is about rhythm, patience and connection. In a city that once ruled the world, the way people get around today still reflects centuries of adaptation and balance between history and modern life.
In Rome, people travel mostly by walking, metro, bus and scooter. Walking is the easiest way to move through narrow streets where cars can barely fit. Scooters dominate the traffic because they are quick, practical and part of the city’s identity. The metro runs through the city’s main areas, connecting locals and tourists, while buses fill in the gaps where train lines cannot reach. Cars are much smaller than in the United States, such as Fiats and Smart cars that squeeze into tight parking spots.
I have seen how transportation changes from country to country while studying abroad. In Athens, I relied on the metro and ferries to explore the Greek islands.