Transporation from FCO to Downtown Rome

Pickpockets and petty crimes are always around. I would view Termini as particularly shade or much different than any other major European rail station. Just take the usual precautions and don't act like a dumb struck tourist. I think I would pick a hostel near the Termini rather than city center. It would be couple miles walk to the center from the station. And, I think, most of the hostels are nearer Termini. We have always used the train and stay near Termini so am not familiar with the shuttles. You might google rome shuttle and see what you get.

Like this one?

I can't advise on its reputation - I just saw it on the top of a Google search for "Rome Airport shuttles."

Tonya,

The easiest solution for the trip from Fiumicino to Roma Termini is the Leonardo Express. These depart fairly frequently, and the trip to Termini is only about 30 minutes. You can buy tickets when you land, close to the trains (there are both ticket windows and ticket machines - don't forget to validate).

I haven't found Termini any more "shady" than other stations in Europe, but normal precautions are certainly necessary (wear a Money Belt!). I haven't experienced any problems walking in the area around Termini in the evenings. Of course, I should mention that I'm a somewhat "stocky" male, so I'm sure that's a factor.

You might want to start working on Hostel reservations soon, as Hostels in Rome can book up fairly quickly at times (May is spring shoulder season, so could be busy?). The Beehive is very popular, and very close to Termini. You could also look at Alessandro Palace which is also close, only about an 8 minute walk. There's another Hostel in the area, Fawlty Towers, but I've never stayed there so can't comment. Check Hostelworld or the HI site for other possibilities.

The Termini area is a very convenient "base", as Buses, Metro,Trains and Taxis are all close. If you need rail tickets for day trips or whatever, there's also a number of ticket windows. There are currently only two Metro lines, but a third is being constructed. There's also a nice "Drugstore" (actually a small grocery store) on the lower level (great for a quick Panini or whatever) and other small shops and fast food restaurants.

Happy travels!

Thank you all for commenting!

Thank you martine for the link... I might have to see if they are good, maybe there are some reviews somewhere. I dunno. I don't wanna get ripped off, I've already read all about the infamous taxis XD

Ken, thanks for letting me know that, I can't book a hostel yet, we don't even have plane tickets... we're going to buy them by next month though and I'll be sure to book a hostel at least for the first night or two there. I seriously hate having too many reservations, since I never know how long I might stay in a place. I'm thinking I'm not staying too long in Rome. :D

I did see reviews for the Alessandro Palace hostel, and it sounded really good, so I might just pick that one.

The taxi situation is a little better. The rate is now fixed from the airport -- 40 Euro -- plus a little more at night. Within the tourist part of Rome it is easier to walk. The subway is limited in that there are only two lines and they don't go to the center part. Buses are a better choice. At that time you can go without much reservations if you are a little flexible. I think it is a good idea to reserve the first two night and your last night. Makes life easier.