Termini Station Hop-On Hop-Off Terminal Guide

Termini Station is the beating heart of Rome's transport network. It is the central train station, the metro hub, and Stop #1 for every Hop-On Hop-Off bus line. It is also chaotic, loud, and confusing. Here is how to handle it.

The Location: Piazza dei Cinquecento

When you walk out of the main station entrance, you face a massive square called Piazza dei Cinquecento.

• Where are the HoHo buses? They do not stop at the regular city bus terminals (which are right in front of the doors).
• Look Right: Usually, if you exit the main doors, look towards the right-hand side of the square or the street running parallel to the station. You will see a line of colorful kiosks (Red, Yellow, Pink).
• The Lineup: The buses line up here to take breaks. You will see Big Bus, City Sightseeing, and others parked in a row.

The Ticket Booths

Each operator has a small kiosk or a desk here.

• Can you buy tickets here? Yes.
• Should you? It is often better to book online to get diverse discounts and just show the QR code on your phone to the staff.

The "West" Challenge (Touts)

Walking through this square, you will be approached by at least 10 people wearing vests.

• "Bus tour? Skip the line? Colosseum?"
• Advice: Be firm. If you have a ticket, say "I have a ticket." If you don't want one, say "No, grazie" and keep walking.
• Warning: Only buy from the official kiosks or staff in full branded uniforms with ID badges. Never give cash to a random person on the street.

Why start at Termini?

Even if you are staying near the Colosseum, it might be worth coming to Termini to start your tour.

• The Seat Advantage: Since this is the start/end of the loop, the bus empties out here. If you board here, you can be first in line to grab the coveted front-row seats on the top deck for the next loop.