by Is Uber in Rome operational? How does its pricing compare to traditional taxis? What’s the process for using Uber?
Despite facing some local resistance and legal challenges, Uber has established its presence in Rome and various Italian cities, offering its services in specific areas alongside regular ride options.
If you’re in Rome and prefer not to use the metro or public transportation, and are open to spending a bit more, calling an Uber or hailing a taxi are excellent alternatives.
This guide provides a thorough overview of what you need to know about using Uber in Rome, including how to book a ride and the expected costs.
Check out our comprehensive guide to navigating Rome.
Why is Uber Restricted in Rome?
To clarify, Uber is not illegal in Rome. The service’s history in Italy has been turbulent, particularly when it first arrived in 2013 with UberPop, a platform allowing any private car owner to provide rides via the Uber app. Although this service thrived in the U.S., it faced immediate legal challenges in Italy and was eventually deemed illegal.
As a result, UberPop is banned in Italy, including Rome. Currently, you can only use more premium Uber services such as Uber Black, Uber Lux, and Uber Van through the app.
How to Book an Uber in Rome
Booking an Uber in Rome follows the same procedure as in other locations. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Download the Uber app and create an account. Visit the Uber website or download the app from the Apple Store or Google Play. Set up your account by entering your email and phone number, or use your Google profile to register.
- Request a ride. While you can request a ride via a web browser, using the app is typically more convenient, especially if you’re not carrying a laptop.
- Set your destination. If the app is in Italian, click “Dove si va?” to enter your destination, then select “Conferma” to confirm and get a nearby driver.
- Meet your driver. The app allows you to track your driver’s arrival so you can wait at the designated pickup spot.
- Verify your driver. Ensure you are getting into the right vehicle by checking the car’s license plate, model, and the driver’s name. Confirm that the driver knows your name.
- Pay for the ride. You can pay with cash, a credit card, or Uber Cash if you have any balance in your account.
Uber Pricing in Rome
With UberPop unavailable in Italy, the only Uber options in Rome are the pricier UberBlack, UberLux, and UberVan services. Consequently, traditional taxis often present a more affordable choice compared to Uber.
Here’s a comparison of Uber and taxi fares in Rome:
- Uber Costs: Expect to pay between €30 and €50 for a ride from Termini Station to Saint Peter’s Square, €15 to €25 from Termini Station to Villa Torlonia, and €50 to €90 for destinations outside the city walls.
- Rome Taxi Costs: Taxis have a fixed initial fare of €3 on weekdays and €4.50 on weekends. Subsequent charges are based on distance: €1.10/km for T1, €1.30/km for T2, and €1.60/km for T3. For instance, a taxi from Termini Station to Ipogeo degli Ottavi costs around €30.
Does Uber Operate at Rome’s Airports?
Yes, Uber services are available for pickups and drop-offs at both Rome airports: Leonardo Da Vinci International Airport (Fiumicino) and Giovan Battista Pastine International Airport (Ciampino).
Where to Find Uber Pickup Locations at Rome Airports
Uber pickup spots at Rome’s airports can vary and depend on the driver. After requesting a ride, check the Uber app for specific pickup instructions at both Fiumicino and Ciampino airports.
Uber Costs to and from Rome Airports
Comparing Uber with traditional taxi fares for airport transfers, regular taxis generally offer a cheaper alternative:
- To and from Fiumicino Airport:
- Inside the Aurelian Walls:
- Uber: €63-€69 (UberBlack Saver), €70-€77 (UberBlack), €105-€116 (UberLux), €106-€116 (UberVan)
- Taxi: €48 fixed fee.
- Outside the Walls but within the GRA A90:
- Uber: €69-€76 (UberBlack Saver), €76-€84 (UberBlack), €115-€126 (UberLux), €115-€127 (UberVan)
- Taxi: Up to €70.
- To and from Ciampino Airport:
- Inside the Aurelian Walls:
- Uber: €50-€55 (UberBlack Saver), €54-€60 (UberBlack), €82-€90 (UberLux), €82-€90 (UberVan)
- Taxi: €30.
- Outside the Walls but within the GRA A90:
- Uber: €57-€62 (UberBlack Saver), €63-€69 (UberBlack), €94-€104 (UberLux), €95-€104 (UberVan)
- Taxi: €50-€60.
- Between Fiumicino and Ciampino Airports:
- Uber: €51-€56 (UberBlack Saver), €60-€66 (UberBlack), €90-€99 (UberLux), €90-€99 (UberVan)
- Taxi: €50.
What is the Local Equivalent of Uber in Rome?
In Rome, IT Taxi serves as the local alternative to Uber. This app, available for hailing metered taxis via GPS, partnered with Uber in 2022. You can choose either Uber or IT Taxi to book a taxi in Italy.
If you prefer Uber but need a standard Roman taxi, select “Taxi” when booking through Uber. The process is similar to booking an Uber car.
What Uber Services are Available in Rome?
In addition to rides, Uber in Rome offers various services:
- Uber Eats: This food delivery service operates similarly to other apps like Glovo and Deliveroo. Enter your delivery address in the Uber Eats app to see available restaurants, estimated wait times, and delivery fees.
- Electric Scooters: Electric scooters, known as “monopattini” in Italy, have become popular in Rome. Although some dislike them due to erratic parking and rule-breaking, they are available through Uber’s partnership with Lime. To rent a scooter, use the Uber app to select “2 route” and scan the QR code on the scooter’s handlebars.
