Directory
Money Matters(Overview)As usual, there's a bank and exchange at the train station, but go elsewhere to find better exchange rates. Still, it has the longest hours of any in Rome.
Banks are scattered everywhere in Rome, and most have ATM machines. Look for concentrations of banks near Piazza Venezia, Piazza Barberini, the Vatican, and along the Via Veneto. Bank hours are usually 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM, and 2:45 to 3:45 PM.
Transportation(Overview)
Buses and Trams
The local transit authority, ATAC, operate both the extensive city bus system, and the network of trams that shunt around the city. Both systems use the same tickets; tickets are good for 90 minutes, and you can transfer as many times as needed. You must purchase your ticket before boarding, either from a ticket office, a tabacchi, or a newsstand. Upon boarding, immediately validate your ticket at the orange machine at the back of the bus. If you are caught riding without a valid ticket, the fine is a hefty 50,000 lire (US$32).
Single tickets are 1,200 lire (US 75 cents); save time and a little money by buying books of ten. Several different kind of passes are also available, including a 24-hour one. Weekly and monthly passes are also good on the subway. Regular bus tickets are not valid for transport on the subway.
Subway
Look for entrances to the subway by spotting the sign with a white M in a red square. Although the subway is an efficient people mover, it's not really convenient to the usual tourist sites. Individual tickets are 1,200 lire (US 75 cents), and you'll need one to get through the turn-stiles. Subway tickets cannot be used on the buses, and vice versa; weekly and monthly passes are good on all public transport, however. Buy tickets at kiosks and tobacconists, or at the stations.