Paris and Rome are two of the most iconic and visited cities in Europe. Many travelers visit both on the same trip. But the big question is:
“What’s the best way to travel from Paris to Rome?”
This guide explains all the options—flights, trains, buses, car travel, and even sleeper trains—including travel times, costs, and insider tips.
How Far is Paris from Rome?
- Distance: Approximately 1,100 kilometers (684 miles) in a straight line
- Travel time: Between 2 hours (by air) and 12-15 hours (by bus or train) depending on the method
Best Ways to Travel from Paris to Rome
1. Flight – Fastest and Often Cheapest
- Airports in Paris: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY)
- Airport in Rome: Rome Fiumicino (FCO) or Ciampino (CIA)
Flight Time: 2 hours (plus airport time)
Total Travel Time (door-to-door): 4.5–6 hours
Cost: From €40–€180, depending on when you book
Airlines:
- Budget: Ryanair, Vueling, EasyJet, Wizz Air
- Full-service: Air France, ITA Airways
Pros:
- Fastest option
- Multiple daily departures
Cons:
- Airports are outside city centers
- Extra time for security, check-in, and transport to/from airports
Tip: Book early for cheaper prices, especially with budget airlines.
2. Train – Scenic, Comfortable (but Long)
There is no direct high-speed train from Paris to Rome. You need to connect, usually in Milan or Turin.
Route Example:
- Paris Gare de Lyon → Milan Centrale → Rome Termini
Travel Time:
- Paris to Milan: About 7 hours (high-speed train)
- Milan to Rome: About 3 hours (high-speed train)
- Total: Around 10–11 hours
Cost: From €70 to €220, depending on how early you book
Train Providers:
- SNCF (France)
- Trenitalia (Italy)
Pros:
- City center to city center
- Comfortable and scenic journey through the Alps
Cons:
- Longer than flying
- Requires a change of train in Milan or Turin
Tip: Book tickets in advance at Trainline, SNCF Connect, or Trenitalia for best prices.
3. Night Train (Comfort + Save on Hotel)
A comfortable but slower option is the Thello night train, although it has been suspended temporarily in recent years. Check current status. Alternative is a night train from Paris to Milan and then an early train to Rome.
Travel Time: Around 13–15 hours total
Cost: From €90–€200, depending on the cabin (seat, couchette, or sleeper)
Pros:
- Save on a hotel night
- Comfortable cabins available
- Arrive in the morning in Rome
Cons:
- Not the fastest
- Limited availability and schedules
4. Bus – Cheapest but Very Long
- Operators: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Eurolines
Travel Time: 20 to 24 hours
Cost: From €40–€90
Departure: Various points in Paris
Arrival: Rome Tiburtina bus station
Pros:
- Cheapest option
- Good for budget travelers
Cons:
- Very long
- Not comfortable for everyone
Tip: Choose overnight routes to save time.
5. Driving – Road Trip Adventure
- Distance: About 1,420 km (883 miles) by road via the A6 and A1 highways
- Driving Time: 13–15 hours nonstop
Costs:
- Toll fees: Around €100–120 (France and Italy)
- Fuel: Around €150–200 depending on your car
- Car rental + cross-border fees (if applicable)
Pros:
- Full freedom and flexibility
- Great for exploring French countryside, Alps, or Northern Italy
Cons:
- Long hours driving
- Parking and traffic in Rome can be stressful
- Expensive tolls and fuel
Comparison Table – How to Travel from Paris to Rome
| Method | Time | Cost (One Way) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | 2 hrs (6 total) | €40–180 | Fast, cheap if booked early | Airport transfers, security |
| Train | 10–11 hrs | €70–220 | Scenic, comfy, city-center | Longer, requires transfer |
| Night Train | 13–15 hrs | €90–200 | Save on hotel, sleeper cabins | Limited service availability |
| Bus | 20–24 hrs | €40–90 | Cheapest | Very long, tiring |
| Car | 13–15 hrs | €250–400 | Flexible, road trip adventure | Expensive, tiring, traffic |
Tips for Traveling from Paris to Rome
- For speed: Fly – it’s the fastest by far.
- For scenery: Take the train, especially Paris to Milan through the Alps.
- For budget: Buses are cheapest but require patience.
- For comfort: Consider a night train to save on hotel costs.
- For adventure: Road trip through Switzerland or the French Riviera.
FAQ – How to Travel from Paris to Rome
Is it better to fly or take the train from Paris to Rome?
Flying is faster (2 hours vs. 10–11 hours) and often cheaper. However, trains are more comfortable and take you city-center to city-center.
Are there direct trains from Paris to Rome?
No direct high-speed trains. You must connect in Milan, Turin, or sometimes Bologna.
How much is a flight from Paris to Rome?
Prices range from €40 to €180, with budget airlines often offering the lowest fares if booked early.
Are night trains still operating from Paris to Rome?
The historic Thello night train is currently suspended, but there are alternatives via night trains from Paris to Milan, then a morning train to Rome.
Is driving from Paris to Rome worth it?
It can be if you plan to stop along the way—in Switzerland, the French Riviera, or Northern Italy. Otherwise, it’s long and expensive compared to flying or the train.
How early should I book train or flight tickets?
- Flights: 1–3 months in advance for best deals.
- Trains: 3 months in advance, especially for high-speed trains like TGV and Frecciarossa.
Are there sleeper trains between Paris and Rome?
Not direct. You can take a night train to Milan or northern Italy, then continue to Rome.
Final Verdict – Best Way to Travel from Paris to Rome
- Fastest: Flights (2 hours, multiple daily)
- Most scenic: High-speed trains via Milan (10–11 hours)
- Cheapest: Overnight bus (€40–90) but requires endurance
- Most flexible: Driving for those wanting a road trip adventure
The most popular option is flying, but if you prefer comfort and views, the train offers an amazing experience.
