10 BEST Airlines to Fly to Rome in 2025

376

Dreaming of a Roman holiday? 🌅 From its iconic Colosseum to vibrant piazzas, Rome offers a truly timeless experience. With four trips to Rome under my belt, I’ve learned the ins and outs of getting the best deals to Italy—and I’m here to help you do the same! For this guide, I analyzed crucial factors like ticket value, in-flight comfort, entertainment options, and reliability. I also compared flights from 85 major airports across the U.S., Canada, the Middle East, and Europe to pinpoint the very best airlines for a 2025 trip to Rome.

Whether you’re looking for luxury or great value, these top 10 airlines have what it takes to make your journey as incredible as your destination. Let’s dive into the ultimate flights to the Eternal City. 🏛️✈️

Quick tip on how to find cheap flights to Rome

Looking for cheap flights to Rome right now? Before diving into all the airlines that fly to Rome, I first want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past three years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $467 roundtrip fare from Boston to Rome.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best Rome flights in 2025.

1. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards
• ☕ Perks: Luxury experience, A380 service with onboard lounges, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book flights on their A380 for the full Emirates experience, including their amazing onboard lounge and shower suites in First Class

If you want to start your Roman holiday in serious style, Emirates makes it easy. They connect you to Rome through their polished Dubai hub, flying modern Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s that feel closer to a five-star hotel than a regular airplane.

Even in Economy, you are treated to multi-course meals, complimentary drinks, and a seat-back screen packed with thousands of movies and shows. Upgrade to Premium Economy and the experience feels even better, with deep reclining seats, extra space, and a quieter cabin where it is actually possible to get some rest. 

Business Class raises the bar even higher with lie-flat beds, an on-demand dining menu, and sleek airport lounges on both sides of your trip. First Class? Expect a private suite, luxury amenity kits, and even the option to take a shower at 40,000 feet. Yup, actual shower.

Baggage-wise, Emirates is incredibly generous. Economy passengers can check two bags up to 23kg each, while Business and First get a whopping 40kg allowance. Their Skywards loyalty program lets you earn and use miles on Emirates flights and partners like JetBlue. The Family Sharing feature? It allows pooling miles between family members, making that dream trip to Rome more accessible.

• Read next: Picture-Perfect Places to Visit in Dubai
• You may also like: Beautiful Places to Visit in Europe
• For more reading: Affordable Places to Fly to in Asia
• Keep reading: Enchanting Places to Visit in Africa

---

Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

---

2. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), New York (JFK), Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis (MSP), Salt Lake City (SLC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One (Business)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles and SkyTeam alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Reliable service, extensive US connections, quality dining experience
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for their modified A330 aircraft on Rome routes with the newer Delta One Suites featuring privacy doors

Delta was the first US airline to serve gelato in-flight, bringing a taste of Italy to passengers before they even land in Rome. This customer-focused carrier offers direct flights to Rome from their New York and Atlanta hubs, with connections available from virtually anywhere in North America.

Their long-haul fleet to Rome includes a mix of Airbus A330s and A350s, with many featuring their acclaimed Delta One Suites. These Business Class pods come with actual closing doors for privacy, lie-flat beds with memory foam cushions, and Westin Heavenly bedding that might make you wish the flight was longer. Meanwhile, Premium Select offers 38 inches of legroom, wider seats, and adjustable leg and foot rests.

Delta shines with consistency and reliability. Their food program has improved dramatically in recent years with multi-course meals designed by award-winning chefs, even in Economy. Afraid you’ll get bored? All passengers enjoy complimentary movies, TV, and audio on seat-back screens or personal devices. Their inflight Wi-Fi is among the fastest in the sky, though it comes with a fee.

SkyMiles members benefit from a program with miles that never expire and reasonable award availability to Europe. While Delta has moved to dynamic pricing, they frequently offer flash sales with discounted rates to Rome and other European cities. Their SkyTeam membership gives passengers access to partner lounge facilities at Rome Fiumicino, including the impressive Casa Alitalia lounge.

• Read next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Georgia
• You may also like: Breathtaking Places to Visit in Los Angeles
• For more reading: Prettiest Spots to Visit in Rome

3. 🇮🇹 Alitalia (ITA Airways)

• 🏠 Hub: Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class (Magnifica)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Volare and SkyTeam alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Direct flights, Italian-inspired service, convenient Rome connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Their “Flex” fares often cost just slightly more than basic economy but include seat selection and free changes

Alitalia had a glamorous 74-year run before its 2021 makeover as ITA Airways, including a special role as the Vatican’s official airline for papal trips. As Italy’s home team carrier, they naturally offer the most flights to Rome from cities around the world.

Their long-haul planes feature a business class called “Magnifica” that actually lives up to the name. Every Business seat turns into a fully flat bed, and the layout means you’ll never have to awkwardly climb over a sleeping stranger to reach the bathroom. Their Premium Economy gives you way more breathing room than regular economy, with dedicated flight attendants and food that doesn’t taste like it came from a vending machine.

The food? It’s all about that famous Italian style, with dishes you’d actually want to eat and wines that don’t come in tiny bottles. The crew looks like they stepped off a Milan runway in their designer uniforms, and they serve espresso that would make your local barista nod in approval.

Their Volare loyalty program works with all SkyTeam airlines, so your points add up quickly. Keep an eye out during spring and fall when they often slash business class prices so dramatically you’ll wonder if it’s a mistake. And since they call Rome home, connecting to places like Florence, Venice, or the Amalfi Coast is a breeze compared to other airlines.

4. 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Business (Qsuite), First Class (select aircraft)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Privilege Club (Avios) and oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Award-winning service, luxurious Qsuites, extensive network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Their “stopover” program lets you break up your journey with a free hotel night in Doha en route to Rome

Qatar Airways was once so committed to perfect service that their CEO would personally call passengers who submitted complaints. This meticulous approach helped transform them from a tiny regional airline into the carrier that’s won “World’s Best Airline” so many times they practically own the trophy. They connect Rome with over 160 destinations worldwide through their ultra-modern Doha hub.

Their famous Qsuites in Business Class are like nothing else in the sky. Picture your own little room with a closing door, a seat that turns into a comfy bed, and clever design that lets families or couples create shared spaces. Some seats even convert into a double bed, turning your flight to Rome into a flying hotel room.

Even in Economy, Qatar doesn’t cut corners. You’ll get amenity kits (rare in economy these days), surprisingly tasty meals, and seat-back screens loaded with entertainment. Their newer planes have special air filtration systems and cabin pressure that reduces jet lag, so you’ll arrive in Rome ready to explore rather than ready for a nap.

Privilege Club members earn Avios points that work across the oneworld alliance. Smart travelers take advantage of their generous stopover program, getting a free hotel night in Doha to break up the journey and essentially visiting two destinations for the price of one. Their award availability tends to be better than most competitors, especially if you can book a few months ahead.

• Read next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Qatar

5. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More and Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: German reliability, extensive connections, First Class Terminal in Frankfurt
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Connect through Munich instead of Frankfurt for a more relaxed experience and a better lounge with an outdoor beer garden

Lufthansa serves more Riesling wine than any restaurant in the world, pouring over one million bottles annually across their flights. This German efficiency powerhouse offers multiple daily flights to Rome from their Frankfurt and Munich hubs, with connections available from hundreds of cities worldwide.

Their long-haul fleet is getting a massive upgrade with the “Allegris” product rolling out across cabins. First Class passengers enjoy the ultimate pre-flight luxury: a separate terminal in Frankfurt where you’ll get driven to your plane in a Porsche. Business Class is finally catching up to competitors with new seats giving everyone direct aisle access and more privacy.

What Lufthansa does better than almost anyone else is reliability. Flights run like clockwork, connections are smooth, and their legendary maintenance means fewer cancellations. Their food has that hearty German influence, with decent portions and complimentary beer and wine in all cabins.

Miles & More members can use points across the entire Star Alliance network. While award tickets to Rome can be pricey in miles, Lufthansa occasionally runs promotions with discounted rates. Their frequent “Zoomout” sales offer surprisingly good cash deals to Italy, especially from their US gateways. 

• Read next: Awesome Things to Do in Germany

6. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première (First)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue and SkyTeam alliance member
• ☕ Perks: French cuisine and wine selection, elegant service, direct flights to Rome
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Watch for monthly Flying Blue Promo Rewards which can slash award prices to Rome by up to 50%

Air France isn’t just carrying passengers, but actually transports more Champagne than any other company in the world, serving bubbly even in economy. They offer multiple daily flights to Rome from their stylish Paris hub, making Italy’s capital easily accessible from hundreds of global cities.

If you’re flying La Première (First Class), expect serious luxury: a private suite with closing curtains, a seat that converts to a memory foam bed made up with Sofitel bedding, and dining curated by Michelin-starred French chefs. Their Business Class features full-flat beds arranged so everyone gets direct aisle access, with plush bedding and chic amenity kits.

Air France is known for adding French flair to the in-flight experience. Think complimentary champagne for all passengers (yes, even in economy), menus created by top French chefs, and wine selections that would impress most sommeliers. Economy passengers can check one free bag on flights to Rome and enjoy complimentary meals with actual metal cutlery.

The airline’s Flying Blue loyalty program is especially rewarding when you know how to work it. You can use miles to book reward flights, upgrades, and even partner flights on airlines like Delta and KLM. Booking with miles via their monthly Promo Rewards during “Reward Flight Saver” promos can unlock major savings (especially off-season).

7. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Philadelphia (PHL), Chicago (ORD)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First (domestic only)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage and oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Extensive US connections, lie-flat seats on Rome routes, Flagship lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book off-peak award tickets to Rome using as few as 22,500 AAdvantage miles one-way in economy with good availability

American Airlines started out delivering mail in the 1920s before deciding passengers might be worth carrying too. Now they’ll fly you to Rome from several US cities, with their best routes running from Philadelphia and other major hubs.

They mostly use their comfy Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 777s on Rome routes. The Dreamliner is actually pretty special, with bigger windows and cabin pressure that mimics a lower altitude, so you’ll feel less like a dried-out sponge when you land. Their Business Class seats convert to fully-flat beds, and you can slip out to the aisle without playing hurdles over your neighbor.

What makes American shine for Rome trips is their massive US network. Living in Boise or Tucson? No problem, they’ll get you to Rome with just one connection. Food has gotten noticeably better in recent years too. Their Flagship Lounges are worth getting to the airport early for, with proper food that beats anything you’ll find in the terminal.

The AAdvantage program might seem complicated, but it has some hidden gems. Their off-peak awards to Europe can be incredible deals, sometimes half the miles of peak dates. Even basic economy passengers get that first checked bag free on transatlantic flights, saving you about $60 each way that you can put toward gelato in Rome instead.

• Read next: Fun and Cool Attractions in Fort Worth
• You may also like: Beautiful Places to Visit in Texas

8. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) and oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Afternoon tea in-flight, solid airport lounges, stylish business class
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Avios flights with low surcharges using Iberia or transfer points from Amex/Chase for better value

British Airways traces its roots back to 1919, making it one of the world’s oldest airlines still flying. They connect London with Rome multiple times daily, using a mix of aircraft from nimble Airbus A320s on the short European hop to their impressive A350s and 787 Dreamliners when they need more seats.

If you’re in World Traveller Plus (their version of Premium Economy), you’ll get a seat with extra legroom and recline, plus upgraded meals served on actual china. Step up to their Club World business class and things get interesting with their new Club Suite offering private spaces with doors you can close. The bedding comes from luxury brand The White Company, and it’s genuinely nice enough that you might want to steal it (but don’t).

The British influence is everywhere onboard. Economy passengers on longer flights get proper afternoon tea with scones, while premium cabins might see trolleys with roast beef carved at your seat. 

Their Avios points program is worth getting to know. The smart move is booking BA flights through their Spanish partner Iberia’s program, often saving hundreds in fees. Another trick? Their “Reward Flight Saver” deals cap the cash portion on shorter flights, making trips from London to Rome a bargain. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to London

9. 🇳🇱 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Comfort, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue and SkyTeam alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Adorable Delft Blue houses in Business, punctuality, efficient Schiphol connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Download the excellent KLM app which makes rebooking super easy if plans change and often shows cheaper fares than the website

KLM holds the title of world’s oldest airline still operating under its original name, flying since 1919 when planes were barely more than fancy kites. They offer multiple daily flights to Rome from their incredibly efficient Amsterdam hub, making connections from North America and Asia remarkably painless.

They fly a mix of Boeing 737s and Embraer E-Jets to Rome, with cabins that feel fresh and well-maintained. While their business class on European routes is basically economy with the middle seat blocked, long-haul business on their 787 Dreamliners and 777s features proper lie-flat beds. Their Economy Comfort option gives you extra legroom and priority boarding without the business class price tag.

What separates KLM from the pack is their genuine Dutch hospitality. Business Class passengers receive those iconic blue and white Delft houses filled with genever (Dutch gin), with a new house design introduced each October. Collectors go crazy for these things, planning trips around collecting specific house numbers. Even Economy passengers get treated to stroopwafels and free beer and wine on most flights.

Their Flying Blue program shares benefits with Air France, giving members access to those valuable monthly Promo Rewards that can cut award prices by up to 50%. Smart travelers watch for their “Dream Deals” promotions that often feature Rome at prices that make weekend trips suddenly very tempting.

• Read next: Places to Visit in North America
• You may also like: Places to Visit in South America

10. 🇦🇺 Qantas

• 🏠 Hub: Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Brisbane (BNE)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First (select aircraft)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Qantas Frequent Flyer and oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Outstanding safety record, excellent wine selection, iconic Aussie service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for their partner flights with Emirates through Dubai to Rome for better availability and sometimes lower award rates

Qantas has a name that started as an acronym for “Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services” back in 1920 when passengers sat on wicker chairs. Today, they connect Australia with Rome seasonally via their direct Perth to Rome service on their fabulous Boeing 787 Dreamliners, the longest flight to Italy from down under.

The Dreamliner experience features their latest cabin designs with Economy seats that actually recline without crushing the person behind you (clever engineering there). Their Premium Economy is worth the splurge with wider seats, footrests, and a dedicated cabin crew. Business class offers direct aisle access for everyone with mattress pads that transform your seat into a genuine bed, not just a flattish surface.

What makes Qantas special? Their attention to wellness on ultra-long flights. Their menu design considers how altitude affects taste, they have specific lighting sequences to help with jet lag, and the crew is trained on how to keep you comfortable during 17+ hour journeys. 

When it comes to perks, their Frequent Flyer program partners with credit cards worldwide and offers “Points Planes” where entire flights are available for awards. Their excellent oneworld partnerships mean you can mix and match airlines for the perfect Rome itinerary from pretty much anywhere on the planet.

• Read next: Cheap Places to Fly from Brisbane

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Airlines to Travel to Rome

Looking to learn more about the best flights to Rome? Here are some frequently asked questions about the best international airlines to Rome to help you in your flight planning.

What airlines fly direct to Rome, Italy?

Several airlines offer direct flights to Rome, depending on your departure city. Major carriers like Delta, Alitalia, and American Airlines frequently operate non-stop routes to Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, also known as Fiumicino Airport.

What is the best airport to fly to Rome?

The best airport to fly into when visiting Rome is Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Fiumicino Airport). It’s the main international gateway to the city and offers a variety of transportation options to get you into the heart of Rome. This airport is often serviced by some of the best airlines to fly to Rome.

What is the cheapest time to fly to Rome, Italy?

The cheapest time to fly to Rome is generally during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Specifically, late April to early June and September to October offer reasonable prices and fewer crowds.

What is the cheapest airport to fly into Italy?

While Rome’s Fiumicino Airport is a major hub, you might find cheaper flights flying into Milan’s Malpensa Airport or even Venice’s Marco Polo Airport. These airports often have budget airline options that could save you money.

What major airlines fly to Rome Italy?

Rome is a significant European hub. Numerous major airlines from around the world operate flights to Rome. Here’s a list of some of the primary carriers:

1. Italian Airlines:
   • Alitalia: Italy’s flag carrier, with its primary hub in Rome-Fiumicino.
   • Blue Panorama Airlines: An Italian airline that operates both scheduled and charter flights.
2. European Airlines:
   • British Airways (UK)
   • Lufthansa (Germany)
   • Air France (France)
   • KLM (Netherlands)
   • Iberia (Spain)
   • Ryanair (Ireland) – Primarily operates from Ciampino Airport.
   • easyJet (UK) – Operates from both airports.
   • Norwegian Air Shuttle (Norway)
   • Aeroflot (Russia)
   • Swiss International Air Lines (Switzerland)
   • TAP Air Portugal (Portugal)
   • Turkish Airlines (Turkey)
   • And many more from various European countries.
3. North American Airlines:
   • American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines: Major U.S. carriers with transatlantic flights to Rome.
   • Air Canada: Canada’s leading airline.
4. Middle Eastern Airlines:
   • Emirates (UAE)
   • Qatar Airways (Qatar)
   • Etihad Airways (UAE)
   • El Al (Israel)
5. Asian Airlines:
   • Cathay Pacific (Hong Kong)
   • Singapore Airlines
   • Hainan Airlines (China)
   • Thai Airways (Thailand)
6. African Airlines:
   • EgyptAir (Egypt)
   • Royal Air Maroc (Morocco)
   • Ethiopian Airlines (Ethiopia)
7. Latin American Airlines:
   • LATAM
   • Aerolíneas Argentinas (Argentina)

Why are flights to Italy so expensive?

Flights to Italy can be pricey due to high demand, especially during the peak tourist seasons of summer and Christmas. Additionally, fuel costs and airport taxes can contribute to the overall expense.

What months are cheapest to fly to Italy?

The cheapest months to fly to Italy are usually November, early December, and late January to February. These are considered off-peak times when tourist activity is lower.

What is the best month to travel to Italy?

The best month to travel to Italy depends on what you’re looking for. May and September offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

How do I choose the best airlines to fly to Rome?

Choosing the best airlines to fly to Rome depends on various factors like budget, preferred amenities, and direct flight availability. Research and compare airlines based on your priorities to make an informed decision. Websites and apps that aggregate flight information can be particularly helpful in identifying the cheapest flights.