Roman Public Transport by nbeard
Ok, the bus system in Rome can be a bit confusing at first, which is why I suggest buying a TRANSPORTATION map at any newsstand. (the green, round, free-standing ones.) It has to specifically be one for transportation, and should cost around 6 euro. It is very worth it, as these maps are greatly detaield and come with a little booklet that lists all of the buses that go to whatever spot in Rome you are trying to get to. They are also excellent street maps, so they come in handy for that, too. For the center, pretty much any bus you will want to take can be caught at Piazza Venezia or Termini. Another big stop for spots a little further afield is Piramide (also a metro stop). Be prepared to wait anywhere from 30 seconds for a bus to 30 minutes; they are never regular. The bus stop signs are yellow, and the bus number that stops there will be in the circle at the top. The stops are listed in order, and the next stop will be the one listed below the one you are at. If you see you want to go the other direction, the stop will be across the street. You buy tickets at "tabacci" for 1 euro each and you have to validate them as soon as you get on the bus. Watch you personal belongings at all times, of course, but especially on buses that go to Termini. Romans don't have the same concept of personal space as Americans, so don't be afraid to squeeze on in! It is common courtesy to take up as little room as possible, however.
