Rome's main station is Termini, in the heart of the city. It is one of the largest train stations in Europe, and well-connected for both national and international journeys. There are several smaller stations around Rome, including Ostiense from which you can easily catch a train to the ancient ruined port of Ostia Antica or to the beach.
Termini Station
Trains in Rome (photo: Eleanor Murkett) Termini station is located just to the north of the centre of Rome. It's an absolutely huge station with several floors of shops and cafés. In front of Termini is Piazza dei Cinquecento, one of the main hubs of Rome's bus routes. It is also the crossing point for the city's two Metro lines, Linea A and Linea B. There are regular shuttle services between the station and Rome's two main airports, Fiumicino and Ciampino.
Keep a careful eye on your bags and wallet, both in Termini station itself, and in the area around the piazza. It's a very high risk area for pickpockets and con artists.
Artesia: the Night Train from Paris to Rome
One potentially glamorous way to arrive in Rome is by taking the Artesia night train from Paris. For more information on this, see our page on Trains from Paris to Rome.
The Trenitalia Pass
Italian rail company Trenitalia offers a special train pass for Europeans and non-Europeans who plan to spend a little time in Italy. The pass allows for rail travel on 4-10 days over a two month period (you choose how many days when you purchase the pass). It does require supplements for some trains, such as the faster Eurostar service (not to be confused with the unrelated Eurostar train which links the UK to France). However, if you plan carefully and make good use of the pass, it can be good value for money.
The Trenitalia pass can be purchased at a further discount if you are under 26 or if you are travelling with at least one other person.