Billetes de tren en Italia
Exploring the Italian “boot” by train
© sborisov
Are you visiting Italy soon? Italy is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist hubs in the world. With many stunning cities with centuries of history, iconic sites, and incredible art and culture, there is no shortage of things to do. Every region has something unique to offer. From fantastic food in the Emilia Romagna to the relaxing beaches of Campania, you'll likely want to experience it all.
Luckily, with an incredibly expansive train system, you can easily plan to get around all of Italy. The intricate Italian railroad system expands from the North to the South with stops in all major cities and more! Italy has plenty of high-speed trains from Trenitalia and Italo that can quickly take you long distances, from cities like Milan to Naples. If you're looking for a trip that is a bit off the beaten path, you can also take the local trains to smaller towns and less visited regions of Italy. With an extensive network of trains, tourists and locals can easily travel through the beautiful country.
Getting to Italy by train
Not only is it easy to get around Italy, but getting to Italy from another European country is also very convenient by train!
For international travel, you can also take EuroCity (EC) and EuroNight (EN) trains to Italy. EuroCity trains are daytime trains that provide comfortable and scenic travel, while EuroNight trains offer overnight services with sleeping accommodations. Although EuroNight trains are slower due to their overnight schedule, they are convenient for covering long distances while you sleep. Tickets for EuroCity and EuroNight can be booked online or at major train stations.
While Italy has numerous rail connections to the rest of Europe, check for direct high-speed trains for the fastest travel. The French National Railway Company (SNCF) runs high-speed TGV trains from Paris and Lyon to Milan and Turin. Milan, Venice and Rome are also directly connected to Switzerland , Austria and Germany.
Italy's main train companies
Italy's main train companies are Trenitalia, the national railway operator, and Italo, a private high-speed rail operator. Each provider runs routes across Italy. Local "Regionale" trains and connects smaller cities and towns.
Trains managed by Trenitalia
Trenitalia is Italy's primary government railway operator. They run high-speed and regular-speed trains internationally, nationally and locally. Make sure to select the correct train if you're booking a Trenitalia ticket!
Types of Trenitalia trains
Frecciarossa
High-speed "Freccerossa trains" connect all major Italian cities, such as Milan, Rome, Turin, Bologna and Naples. These are Trenitalia's fastest trains and reach speeds of up to 300 km/h. Each train features comfortable seating, multiple classes, onboard Wi-Fi and various dining options. There are even dedicated quiet zones and meeting rooms (specifically for the Executive Class).
Thanks to the speedy and elevated service, travel aboard Frecciarossa is typically the most expensive of the three train options. Price of tickets vary by class of service: Standard, Premium, Business, Executive.
Freccirossa trains have:
- Comfortable, spacious, reclining seating
- Charging sockets and lighting at each seat
- Air conditioning
- Space for luggage
- Carriage screens with info about the journey
- Area with baby changing table
- Seating for disabled passengers
- Toilettes
- Access to the FRECCE Portal is accessible free entertainment and Wi-Fi
There are multiple types of trains in this current fleet, but the shining star is the Frecciarossa 1000. Its flashy red exterior and plush leather exterior, travel aboard any of the 8 coaches of these trains is an elevated experience. This train is legendary for its Executive class with seating for just 10 people. During a journey in Executive Class, there is constant dining service, with a plates designed by famous Italian chef Carlo Cracco.
Dining options: The FRECCIABistrò carriage is always open during travel. It offers snacks and drinks with gluten-free and vegetarian options to accommodate everyone. Products available for purchase include sandwiches, pizzas, meats and cheeses, soft drinks, local wines, cocktails, Illy espresso coffee and more. To order directly to your seat, simply order from the EasyBistrò via the FRECCE Portal.
There are also seatside dining options depending on the class of service of your ticket. The options are famously delicious and highlight local favourites and ingredients. Business and First Class passengers will enjoy a meal box with water, coffee, tea and gluten-free and lactose-free options. Premium ticket holders will be served snacks and drinks during the journey.
Frecciargento
The Frecciargento trains are slower than the Frecciarossa, but they are still considered high-speed trains. These trains operate on high-speed and traditional lines, connecting major routes like Rome and Venice, and also reaching mid-sized cities like Lecce and Reggio Calabria. Riders enjoy amenities similar to those of Frecciarossa. There are fewer daily departures on Frecciargento trains compared to Frecciarossa trains. Price of tickets vary by class of service: Standard, Premium, Business, First.
Frecciargento trains have:
- 9 carriages including the FRECCIABistrò carriage
- 489 seats
- Comfortable, spacious, reclining seating
- Charging sockets and lighting at each seat
- Air conditioning
- Space for luggage
- Carriage screens with info about the journey
- Area with baby changing table
- Seating for disabled passengers
- Toilettes
- Access to the FRECCE Portal is accessible free entertainment and Wi-Fi
Dining options: The FRECCIABistrò carriage is always open during travel. It offers snacks and drinks with gluten-free and vegetarian options to accommodate everyone. Products available for purchase include sandwiches, pizzas, meats and cheeses, soft drinks, local wines, cocktails, Illy espresso coffee and more. To order directly to your seat, simply order from the EasyBistrò via the FRECCE Portal.
There are also seatside dining options depending on the class of service of your ticket. The options are famously delicious and highlight local favourites and ingredients. Business and First Class passengers will enjoy a meal box with water, coffee, tea and gluten-free and lactose-free options. Premium ticket holders will be served snacks and drinks during the journey.
Frecciabianca
Long-distance, coastal and intercity travel, such as the Milan to Venice route, typically falls to the Frecciabianca. These trains offer a fast and comfortable journey across Italy. While the price of tickets vary by class of service: Standard, Premium, Business, First, Frecciabianca tickets are typically cheaper than Frecciargento and Frecciarossa trains. This more affordable service allows you to enjoy “slow travel” and reach the smaller destinations not served by the other train services.
Frecciabianca trains have:
- 9 carriages including the FRECCIABistrò carriage
- 477 seats
- Comfortable, spacious seating
- Charging sockets and lighting at each seat
- Air conditioning
- Space for luggage
- Area with baby changing table
- Toilettes
Dining options: The FRECCIABistrò carriage is always open during travel. It offers snacks and drinks with gluten-free and vegetarian options to accommodate everyone. Products available for purchase include sandwiches, pizzas, meats and cheeses, soft drinks, local wines, cocktails, Illy espresso coffee and more.
InterCity
Travellers exploring beyond Italy's major cities ride the InterCity to visit smaller cities, towns or scenic locations that are not always served by the high-speed “Frecce” trains. In fact, there are over 100 daily connections offered aboard InterCity trains each day. The main lines that are served by InterCity trains include the Northern Tyrrhenian Line, Southern Tyrrhenian Line, Adriatic Line and the Sicily Line.
Regionale
As the name suggests, Regionale trains serve local areas with frequent, convenient service to areas that cannot be reached aboard the high-speed “Frecce” trains. Regionale trains are typically older, slower models. Tickets for these trains are often some of the cheapest. These types of trains are often not air conditioned but do connect you to the smaller, more hidden treasures that other tourists do not typically reach.
Tickets for Trenitalia are available for purchase now.
Trains available through Italo
Italy's private train operator, Italo, runs high-speed trains connecting the country's major cities, including Milan, Venice, Rome and Naples. Famous for its modern trains and excellent service, Italo serves as a healthy competition to Trenitalia.
Italo offers relatively modern high-speed trains with similar amenities to Trenitalia, including spacious seating, free Wi-Fi and elevated dining options.
With trains always departing and competitive pricing, planning your entire trip around Italo trains is easy. You can book Italo train tickets here.
Main train stations
Italy's main train stations are located within major cities, typically near subway and bus stations. The train stations also include cafes and shops, making the travel experience comfortable.
The stations also include extensive facilities for travellers with disabilities, including accessibility features such as ramps, elevators and dedicated assistance services. Trenitalia's Sala Blu Assistance provides support for passengers with reduced mobility.
Roma Termini (Rome)
Located in Rome, Roma Termini train station is the largest in Italy, with 30 platforms that take visitors to and from the city. This impressive train station sees nearly half a million visitors through its hall daily! Its vast connections allow you to take high-speed, regional and international trains to virtually any destination. Conveniently located in the heart of Rome, Roma Termini is well-connected to local buses and the subway system and even features a direct line to Rome Airport Fiumicino.
Milano Centrale (Milan)
The Milano Centrale train station is practically an attraction on its own, with stunning columns and incredible architecture. This station is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Europe. Milano Centrale is the second largest train station in Italy, with 24 platforms, and it hosts high-speed, regional and international train lines, many from France or Switzerland. Thanks to its central location, visitors can easily access the local tram to many parts of the city. The Malpensa Express Train connects the station to Milan Malpensa Airport for fast and easy international travel.
Venezia Santa Lucia (Venice)
If you are visiting Venice, you will likely come and leave through the beautiful Venezia Santa Lucia train station. The Venezia Santa Lucia train station hosts both high-speed and regional trains, making it easy for travellers across the country to visit Venice. Centrally located on the Grand Canal, the station gives visitors gorgeous views of the city's world-famous canals and bridges.
Napoli Centrale (Naples)
Napoli Centrale is one of Southern Italy's biggest train stations and hosts high-speed, regional and international trains. Napoli Centrale is also well-connected to local and regional transit options. The underground station is part of Naples' Metro Line 2, which connects the Napoli Centrale to regional destinations like Pompeii and Sorrento.
Firenze Santa Maria Novella (Florence)
Firenze Santa Maria Novella is the main train station in Florence, just a ten-minute walk from all the main sites and attractions. When travelling to Florence, it is essential to note that while many trains stop here, some intercity trains go to Rifredi or Campo Di Marte stations instead. These are located just outside the main city. If you want to go directly to the city centre, book your train ticket to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
Popular train routes in Italy
These train routes connect Italy's major urban centres while passing through Italy's stunning landscapes. With each one, travellers can explore famous landmarks and charming countryside towns, like the picturesque Tuscan villages between Florence and Pisa.
Rome to Florence
The Rome to Florence high-speed train departs every five minutes, from 05:35 to 21:00. Each train takes about 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete the journey through central Italy's scenic countryside.
Rome to Venice
The high-speed train from Rome to Venice departs from 05:35 to 23:50 every 15 minutes. Crossing the majestic Apennine Mountains, the train takes around three and a half hours to complete a one-way trip.
Milan to Naples
Are you travelling all the way from Northern to Southern Italy? The high-speed train from Milan to Naples departs approximately every ten minutes from 05:00 to 19:30, taking around four and a half hours through the country's central countryside.
Florence to Pisa
You can easily connect between two of Tuscany's most iconic cities with the high-speed train from Florence to Pisa. The Florence to Pisa train departs approximately every 17 minutes from 04:30 to 00:45 and takes about 46 minutes to reach the centre of these iconic Renaissance cities.
Rome to Milan
Running from Italy's central highlands to the fertile Po Valley, the Rome to Milan high-speed train departs about every 10 minutes from 05:10 to 21:00. The train takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes to finish and includes a brief stop in Bologna.
Scenic train routes in Italy
The Amalfi Coast Line
With The Amalfi Coast Line, you can finally see those iconic Instagram views in person. You'll see views of dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters and charming coastal towns like Amalfi and Positano along this route.
The Tuscan Line
If you've dreamt of immersing yourself in the scenic Tuscan countryside, there's no better way to do it than along the Tuscan Line. The route showcases the legendary Siena and San Gimignano amid rolling hills, lush vineyards and medieval villages such as Sie.
The Alpine Line
See the stunning snow-capped Alps up close along the Alpine Line, which winds through the range's many river valleys. Enjoy the views of pristine lakes, picture-perfect villages and the majestic mountains that have inspired countless artists and adventurers.
The Sicilian Coast Line
Take in the Mediterranean sun and spectacular sea views along the Sicilian Coast Line, which runs along the island's rugged shores. You'll enjoy majestic views of crystal waters and historic towns tucked away in the high mountains.
Purchasing an Italian train ticket
Booking a train ticket in Italy (or anywhere in Europe) is fast and easy with Rail Europe. You can simply visit the website, select where to depart and arrive, enter the passenger's details and book! Booking your train ticket through Rail Europe is an excellent option to plan your trip and keep all your bookings in one place.
Using a Eurail/Interrail Global Pass and One Country Pass
Riders can enjoy unlimited rail travel in Italy with the Eurail/Interrail Pass One Country Pass for a set period. The pass offers a cost-efficient way to visit multiple cities in Italy. However, if you visit Italy and other European countries, you might want to purchase the Eurail/Interrail Global Pass, which allows unlimited rail travel between 33 countries.
Both passes give you travel flexibility and even discounts on select attractions. The price of each pass varies based on the type and duration of travel. The main difference between the Eurail and Interrail Passes is that Interrail Passes are for European residents, while Eurail Passes are for the rest of us!
Reserving a seat for trains in Italy
Regional trains typically do not require reservations. However, you must reserve your seat if you are booking a ride on a high-speed train.
Travelling in Italy and beyond!
Italy is an excellent place to get your steps in, as most of Italy's major cities are highly walkable. For instance, in Milan, the Cathedral of Milano, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the Brera Art Gallery are all located in the centre of Milan.
However, for larger and more spread-out cities like Rome or Venice, you may need to take a taxi or use alternative transportation to get around the city.
You can also use Uber, but it is important to note that there is only Uber Black in Italy, making them less accessible and more expensive. Here are the most popular transportation options for each city.
- Rome: Many significant monuments, such as the Colosseum and Fountain Di Trevi, are within walking distance of Rome's central train station. However, you must take the metro, bus, tram or taxi to get to many newer parts of Rome or the Vatican City.
- Florence: Visitors can reach Florence on foot from the train station, but buses and trams are available for longer distances or those with disabilities.
- Milan: As one of Italy's wealthiest cities, Milan features extensive transportation options, including the metro, trams, buses and bike-sharing programs.
- Venice: Much of Venice can be reached by walking from the train station. Due to its many canals, other transportation options are limited to water buses (Vaporetto), water taxis and gondolas.
Best time of year to visit Italy
Every month of the year has its charm in Italy, but here are some thoughts about each season.
- Spring (April to June): During the Spring, you can enjoy mild weather, blooming flowers and fewer tourists. This time of the year is perfect for leisurely walks and exploring cities.
- Fall (September to November): In the Fall, you can experience pleasant temperatures, harvest festivals and vibrant autumn colours. Fall weather is ideal for sightseeing and cultural events.
- Summer (July to August): The warm weather of the Summer months makes beach destinations incredibly attractive, but it is also the peak tourist season. This means you should expect crowded attractions, long lines and difficulty securing reservations.
- Winter (December to March): Colder weather brings fewer tourists, a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, and opportunities for skiing in the Alps.
Safety and general advice for visiting Italy
Beware of pickpockets: Stay aware of your surroundings when visiting Italy, and hold on to your belongings. Pickpockets tend to target tourists who look lost and unaware. You should also always keep your passport and other valuable documents in a safe place.
Learn basic Italian: While most Italians in the major cities speak English, learning a few basic Italian phrases and respecting the local customs is also helpful.
Validate your public transportation tickets: Validate your tickets before boarding to avoid fees.
Exploring Europe from Italy
Must-visit cities in Europe beyond Italy
Once in Europe, you might take advantage of the excellent train system and hop over to some of the other must-visit European cities. You can easily visit cities like Paris, Zurich, Munich, Vienna and Barcelona from Italy!
Other scenic train routes in Europe
- Swiss Alps: Witness the fantastic mountains of stone and ice and dramatic alpine valleys dotted by charming villages along the Glacier Express.
- French Riviera: Take a road less travelled on this trip through France's majestic Mediterranean coast, passing through Nice and Cannes along the way.
- German Countryside: Explore Germany's lush mountains and valleys while passing postcard-perfect medieval villages along the Romantic Road route.
Travelling overnight by train in Europe
Want to get to new destinations without wasting precious daytime? Overnight trains offer a unique travel experience, allowing you to cover long distances while sleeping comfortably in a cabin. Overnight trains in Europe are not as fast as daytime trains or high-speed rail, but they are fun options that can be a unique experience. Common overnight train routes include Paris to Venice, Berlin to Rome, and Vienna to Florence. You can select from purchasing a reclining seat to getting private sleeper cabins with en-suite bathrooms.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of travelling by train in Italy?
Besides simply being fun to travel to Italy by train, it is also a comfortable, efficient and convenient way to see the entire country. You don't have to worry about parking or getting an international driver's license, and you can enjoy stunning views, comfortable seating and plenty of onboard amenities. The trains also leave frequently, and the train system covers much of the country, making it easy to get around between cities.
How do I book train tickets In Italy?
You can buy all train tickets in Italy online on Rail Europe! With Rail Europe, you can organize your trip ahead of time and compare tickets from all carriers, including Trenitalia and Italo.
Do I need seat reservations for Italian trains?
Yes, you must get seat reservations if you book a high-speed rail ticket (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca and Italo trains). You do not need reservations for regional trains.
What Is the difference between First and Second Class on Italian trains?
For example, first-class train tickets can be much more expensive on an aeroplane than regular train tickets. Various levels for First-Class train tickets offer more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments and additional amenities. For instance, the Frecciarossa has Executive, Premium and Business Classes, with the Executive class having just ten large ergonomic seats within the cabin. A Second Class still offers comfortable seating aboard modern trains, but the experience in the highest class of service truly delivers a luxe experience that is hard to beat.
Can I use a Eurail Pass in Italy?
Yes! Eurail and Interrail Passes are valid on Trenitalia and some Italo services. Benefits include unlimited travel on the network, flexibility and access to discounts on other travel services.
Are Italian train stations accessible for disabled travelers?
Most significant stations like Roma Termini, Milano Centrale and Venezia Santa Lucia offer accessible facilities, including ramps, elevators and assistance services.
What should I do if I miss my train?
You can get on the next train without additional charges if you have a flexible ticket. However, if you don't have one, you might need to purchase a new ticket or pay a fee to change your reservation. Station attendants can also answer any questions you may have.
What is the best time to travel by train in Italy?
It's best to travel during mid-day to avoid early morning and afternoon crowds. Book ahead of time to ensure your tickets are available!
How do I find train schedules for Italy?
Finding the train schedule in Italy is easy. You can check the Rail Europe for real-time information.