Need a taxi in Rome? Don't hail one from the street; go to a cab stand.

By Diane Vadino

Taxis aren’t hailed off the street in Rome. Instead, find one at the nearest taxi stand. Tipping is unnecessary; at most, round up your fare to the nearest euro. If you’re nervous about making the trip by taxi into town from Fiumcino, verbally stating the expected fare — to the city center and it should be around 50 euro — can reduce the possibility of a taxi driver taking advantage of visitors. To avoid the situation entirely, consider taking the fast, frequent Fiumicino Express. It’s a 35-minute journey to Termini rail station in central Rome that leaves from the airport every 30 minutes. The one-way fare is 11 euro; a taxi from Termini to most hotels should be under 10 euro.

Don't forget the kiss
Whether you’re welcoming Italian friends or bidding goodbye to an especially helpful tour guide, be prepared for the kiss: the right-left maneuver that’s a central part of the Roman social exchange. The motion is the opposite of the Spanish custom, and you’ll go first to your right, then your left, touching cheeks more than kissing

Go to Rome City Guide.