Rome–Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO)

Rome–Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (IATA: FCO, ICAO: LIRF) is the primary international gateway to Rome and the busiest airport in Italy. Serving as the main hub for the national carrier, ITA Airways, it connects the Italian capital with hundreds of destinations across Europe and the globe. Officially opened in 1961 to handle the growing air traffic that the older Ciampino Airport could no longer accommodate, it was named after the Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci, who designed a flying machine with wings in the 15th century.

Located in the coastal town of Fiumicino, the airport is situated approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) southwest of Rome's historic city center. Travelers have several reliable options for accessing the city. The most direct route is the Leonardo Express, a non-stop train service that reaches Roma Termini, the main railway station, in about 32 minutes. Regional FL1 trains also connect the airport to other stations in Rome, such as Trastevere and Tiburtina. Additionally, various bus companies offer more economical, albeit slower, services to different points in the city, while licensed white taxis operate on a fixed-fare system for journeys to destinations within the Aurelian Walls.

As a major European hub, FCO handles a high volume of both domestic and international flights operated by dozens of global airlines. Pre-pandemic passenger traffic regularly exceeded 40 million annually. The airport's infrastructure is centered around two main passenger terminals: Terminal 1, which primarily serves Schengen Area flights, and Terminal 3, which handles non-Schengen and intercontinental services. These terminals are well-equipped with modern traveler amenities, including extensive duty-free shopping areas, a wide range of restaurants and cafes, and numerous airline and independent passenger lounges.

For a smooth travel experience, passengers departing on international flights are advised to arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to their scheduled departure time. When connecting between flights, it is important to follow the "Transiti/Connections" signage carefully. Travelers moving between Schengen and non-Schengen zones will need to pass through passport control, so allowing ample time for this process is crucial. The Leonardo Express train is generally the most predictable transport option for reaching the city center, as it is not subject to road traffic delays.