Cheap flights from London to Rome

About two and a half hours to Rome, with a choice of Fiumicino or Ciampino on arrival.

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London → Rome

Flights from London to Rome take about two and a half hours and leave from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton, so you can usually find a departure time that suits. Rome is one hour ahead of the UK, which means an early flight lands in time for lunch and an afternoon at the Colosseum or the Pantheon. The route is popular all year, from weekend breaks to longer trips that continue to Florence, Naples or the Amalfi Coast.

Rome has two airports, and the difference matters. Fiumicino, about 30 km west of the centre, handles most flights and has a direct train to Termini station. Ciampino is closer, around 15 km south-east, but has no rail link, so you will rely on a coach or taxi. When you compare fares, factor in the transfer and your arrival time, especially for late flights, when public transport options thin out.

Route facts

Flight time
About 2 hours 30 minutes
Distance
1,440 km (890 miles)
Departure airports
Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton
Arrival airports
Rome Fiumicino (FCO), Rome Ciampino (CIA)
Airlines
Typically served by British Airways, ITA Airways, easyJet and Ryanair

When fares to Rome are highest

  • Lower demand
  • Shoulder
  • Peak – book early

Peaks and cheaper windowsFares are highest around Easter, which is especially busy in Rome, and through the summer holidays, with spring also in strong demand. January, February outside half-term and November are usually the cheapest months, and the main sights are noticeably quieter.

Based on typical seasonal demand and fares, not live prices. Run a search to see current prices for your dates.

Tips for cheaper London–Rome flights

  • If your flight lands at Ciampino, plan the transfer before you go: there is no direct train, so book a coach seat or use a licensed taxi, which charges a fixed fare to the historic centre.
  • From Fiumicino, the Leonardo Express runs nonstop to Termini in about 30 minutes, but if you are staying in Trastevere, the slower regional FL1 train stops there and may save you a cross-town trip.
  • Consider an open-jaw trip: fly into Rome and home from Naples, Florence or Pisa, which avoids backtracking if you are touring Italy by train.
  • Easter and major Vatican events push demand up sharply, so check the date of Easter and any large events at St Peter's before choosing your travel week.

London to Rome flights: questions and answers

How long is the flight from London to Rome?

About two and a half hours, a little longer on busy days or from some airports. Italy is one hour ahead of the UK all year, so a 07:00 departure from London typically lands at around 10:30 local time, leaving most of the day free for sightseeing.

Should I fly into Fiumicino or Ciampino?

Fiumicino (FCO) has more flights and the Leonardo Express train to Termini, which takes about 30 minutes. Ciampino (CIA) is closer to the city but has no direct train, so most people take a coach to Termini, which can take 40 minutes or more in traffic, or a taxi. If fares are similar, Fiumicino is usually easier.

When are flights to Rome cheapest?

Usually in January, in February outside the half-term week, and in November. Easter, the late-May half-term and the summer holidays are the most expensive times to fly. March and late October can be good compromises, with milder weather than midwinter and fewer crowds than spring.

How many days do I need in Rome?

Three full days covers the essentials: the Colosseum and Forum, the Vatican Museums and St Peter's, and a walk through the historic centre. Four or five days lets you add Trastevere, the Borghese Gallery or a day trip to Ostia Antica or Tivoli without rushing. Book timed tickets for the Vatican Museums and the Borghese in advance.

Is there a hotel tax in Rome?

Yes. Rome charges a city tax per person per night, usually paid at the hotel and often not included in the room rate shown online. The amount depends on the type and category of accommodation and applies for a limited number of nights, with young children exempt. Budget for it when comparing hotels.