Rome is one of the most popular city break destinations from the UK, and competition between airlines keeps fares competitive. With Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways, and ITA Airways all operating the route, there are plenty of options for finding cheap flights to Rome. Here\'s everything you need to know for 2026.
Which Airlines Fly from the UK to Rome?
Ryanair — Operates from London Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Bristol, and several other UK airports to Rome Ciampino (CIA) — the smaller of Rome\'s two airports, about 15km south of the city centre. Lowest base fares but charges for hold luggage and seat selection.\n\neasyJet — Operates from London Gatwick, London Luton, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Bristol to Rome Fiumicino (FCO) — Rome\'s main international airport, 30km west of the city. Competitive fares with a similar model to Ryanair.\n\nBritish Airways — Operates from London Heathrow to Rome Fiumicino. Higher fares but includes a carry-on bag and checked luggage on some fares. Good for earning Avios points.\n\nITA Airways — Italy\'s national carrier, operating from London Heathrow to Rome Fiumicino. Fares are competitive and the service is good.\n\nWizz Air — Operates from London Luton and several regional UK airports to Rome Fiumicino. Very low base fares but strict baggage policies.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Rome
January and February are the cheapest months — demand is low and airlines discount heavily. Fares from £30–£70 return from London, £25–£55 from regional airports. Rome in winter is cold (5–12°C) but uncrowded and atmospheric.\n\nMarch is good value and the weather starts to improve. Avoid Easter week — Rome is extremely busy and prices spike.\n\nApril and May are excellent — warm weather (18–24°C), manageable crowds, and reasonable fares (£50–£120 return).\n\nJune–August is peak season — Rome is very hot (30–36°C), extremely crowded, and fares are at their highest. Book 3–4 months in advance.\n\nSeptember and October are arguably the best months — the summer heat eases, crowds thin, and fares drop (£50–£110 return). October is particularly good.\n\nNovember and December (excluding Christmas) offer good value — fares from £40–£80 return are common, and Rome is beautiful in the run-up to Christmas.
Rome Fiumicino vs Rome Ciampino — Which Airport?
Rome Fiumicino (FCO) — Rome\'s main international airport. Well connected to the city centre by the Leonardo Express train (32 minutes, €14) and by bus (45–60 minutes, €6–€8). Most major airlines use Fiumicino.\n\nRome Ciampino (CIA) — A smaller airport used mainly by Ryanair and Wizz Air. Connected to the city centre by bus (45–60 minutes, €6–€7) — there is no train service. Ciampino is further from the main tourist areas than Fiumicino.\n\nVerdict: Fiumicino is more convenient, but Ciampino fares are often significantly cheaper. Factor in the extra transport time and cost when comparing.
Tips for Finding the Cheapest Fares to Rome
Book early for peak dates — Easter, summer school holidays, and the Christmas/New Year period sell out fast. Book 3–4 months in advance.\n\nBe flexible on days — Tuesday and Wednesday flights are typically cheaper than Friday and Sunday. Avoid flying on bank holiday weekends.\n\nUse fare comparison tools — Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak all allow flexible date searches. The calendar view on Google Flights is particularly useful for spotting the cheapest days.\n\nCheck baggage fees — Ryanair and Wizz Air charge for hold luggage (£20–£40 each way). If you need a hold bag, Aer Lingus, easyJet, or British Airways may be cheaper overall.\n\nConsider flying into other Italian airports — If you\'re planning to explore beyond Rome, consider flying into Naples (for the Amalfi Coast) or Milan (for the north) and ending in Rome, or vice versa.
