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Rome Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci International Airport
Rome · Italy
Rome Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) is Italy's busiest airport, located in Fiumicino, 30 km southwest of Rome. It serves as the primary international gateway for Rome, Vatican City, and the Lazio region, acting as the main hub for ITA Airways.[1]
Opened in 1961, Fiumicino Airport is managed by Aeroporti di Roma (ADR) and features modern expansions including a central airside hall. It handles millions of passengers annually with three primary runways and serves as a base for major low-cost carriers. The airport connects efficiently to central Rome via rail, including the Leonardo Express. Named after Leonardo da Vinci, it is the largest airport in Italy and a key European hub.[1][3]
Best time to visit
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds; avoid peak summer (July-August) for high heat and congestion.
Language
Italian, English
Currency
EUR
Annual passengers
29.3M / year
Distance to downtown
30 km
Interesting facts
- The airport opened in 1961, replacing Ciampino as Rome's main airport, and is named after the Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci.[1]
- Fiumicino features three main runways: 16L/34R, 16R/34L (both 3,900m), and 07/25 (3,309m), with the latter used primarily for westbound takeoffs due to prevailing winds.[1][3]
- It is the busiest airport in Italy and ranks among Europe's top airports by passenger traffic.[1][5]
- The airport has undergone significant expansions since the 1990s, including new piers and terminals to reach capacities of over 50 million passengers annually.[3]
- Excellent rail connectivity includes the Leonardo Express non-stop train to Roma Termini and the FL1 suburban line.[4][5]
Tips for travelers
- Arrive early for security; use the Leonardo Express train for a 32-minute direct ride to Roma Termini.
- Terminal 1 is for ITA Airways (Schengen and some international); Terminal 3 handles most international and non-Schengen flights.
- Free WiFi is available throughout; lounges accessible via Priority Pass or airline status.
- ATMs and currency exchange are plentiful in arrivals; SIM cards available from Vodafone and TIM kiosks.
- For connections, follow clear signage to the central airside hall; allow 60-90 minutes between flights.
Airport amenities
LoungesWiFiPrayer roomHotel on-siteDuty-free shopsFood courts